January - February - March 2022 CIRCA Magazine by CIRCA Magazine

CIRCA

JA N U A RY

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F E B RU A RY

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MARCH 2022

H E A RT WA R M I N G H O T C H O C O L AT E • S E A S O NA L S E L L I N G • A " C H I L I " N I G H T • W I N T E R G A R D E N I N G • YO G A F O R C H RO N I C PA I N A T OA S T T O W I N T E R • O N T H E ROA D T O R E C OV E RY • W I N T E RY A P P L E D E L I G H T S • L I V I N G W I T H L OW V I S I O N • N E W Y E A R , N E W H A B I T S F I NA N C I A L F O C U S • W I N T E R C R A F T I N G • L E T ' S G E T M OV I N G • Q U I C K A N D E A S Y W I N T E R D I S H E S • D E C O R D I L E M M A ? • A N D M O R E

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A WORD FROM THE PUBLISHER

Happy New Year, CIRCA readers! I hope this note finds you having enjoyed a wonderful holiday season and ready to embrace a terrific 2022! As we kick it off, I’m excited to share with you another great issue, full of incredibly insightful, inspiring, and informational articles, and featuring the many businesses throughout our community that are open and ready to serve you. Whether you’re craving delicious dishes and drinks to warm you from the inside out as the temperatures drop, are looking for fun things to do to help chase away the winter blues, or need a little extra push to set (and keep) those New Year resolutions, CIRCA is here to help. For all you food lovers out there … check out “The Perfect Meal For a ‘Chili’ Night” for a grilling twist on the traditional, and “Crazy For Crab Cakes” for a tasty Maryland-style take on this seafood staple. “Cooked In Tradition” features heartwarming hot chocolate recipes while “Wintery Apple Delights” presents two scrumptiously sweet treats for the season. And get inspired to create some quick and easy, hearty and healthy winter dishes that are perfect for a busy household. For all of you looking to find an entertaining way to escape the chill of winter … “Hidden Gems” highlights a number of area museums that are sure to spark your curiosity. “What’s Up Wake Forest?” details the many upcoming events around town so you can fill your calendar with wintery fun. “Driveable Destination” showcases the skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing fun waiting to be discovered in the western part of our state. For those who resolve to focus on their health and well-being this year … “New Year, New Habits” shares good practices that will help you enjoy a happier and healthier 2022. Learn about how yoga can be an at-home tool to prevent and help alleviate chronic pain. Get moving and gear up for a longer, stronger life with seven exercises your body craves. If retirement is top of mind, check out “Financial Focus – Thinking About Retirement Income.” If you’re interested in some decorating projects in 2022, “Design Dilemma?” answers questions about tackling those tasks, as well as the year’s top design trends. Want to breathe new life into your winter landscape? “Winter Gardening” offers tips from gardening color to gardening care. Read about why it’s important to prep and stage your home if you’re considering selling it. And why it’s important to get a home inspection if you buy a new one. Read about the history of the Wake Forest College football team (and the University’s recent most winningest season – congrats to them!). Read about book suggestions for a snuggly afternoon on the couch. All of this, and so much more is waiting for you in this 2022 kickoff edition. Before I go, a reminder to please continue to support the many businesses who advertise in CIRCA. These amazing businesses and their wonderful staff and employees are excited to provide you with their great products and services. And please let them know you found them in CIRCA Magazine! May you continue to stay safe, happy, and healthy this winter season. I’ll see you again come spring!

JA N UA RY • F E B R UA RY • M A RC H 2022 6 What’s Up Wake Forest?

Upcoming Events To Fill Your Calendar This Winter

38 Beyond Beige – Breaking Free From Design Boundaries

Decor Dilemma? Design Tips, Tricks, And Helpful Hints

Crazy For Crab Cakes – Carry On Culinary Traditions With This Seafood Staple

A Toast To Winter – Warming Wines And Bold Brews

12 Financial Focus – Thinking About Your Retirement Income 14 Let’s Get Moving – 7 Exercises Your Body Craves For A Longer, Healthier Life 16

Pre-Sale Prep And Staging

New Year, New Habits – Good Practices For A Happy And Healthy 2022

20 Hidden Gems – Keep Warm By Sparking Your Curiosity 22

Crafty Ways To Chase The Winter Blues Away

The Perfect Meal For A “Chili” Night

Seasonal Selling – How To Get Your Home Ready For A Winter Sale

30 Moving? Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Your Belongings?

44 Inspect To Avoid The Unexpected 46

Good Reads

Cooked In Tradition – Heartwarming Hot Chocolate

50 Healthy Hips – All About Pediatric Hip Dysplasia 52

On The Road To Recovery – Thanks To Treatment Options For A Healthy Lifestyle

54 56

Driveable Destination – Winter Fun To Our West

Wintery Apple Delights

All About Veneers

Living With Low Vision 2022 – The Year We Take Out The Trash

Winter Gardening – From Color To Care

Quick And Easy Winter Dishes

Yoga – An At-Home Tool To Prevent And Help Alleviate Chronic Pain

66 Our Heritage – Baptist Hollow: The Cradle Of College Sports

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kent Lower CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Allison Caudle Abbott Joe O’Keefe Nick Pione Robyn Goss Bennai Tom Piper Antonio Bryan Rhonda Benvie Plummer Buck Buchanan Raleigh Radiology Jonathan Daniel Dolores Riggins Sommer Donahoe Dr. Kimberly Douglas Amy Rikhoff Ashley Sayaloune Bracy Dutton Dr. Edmond Suh Joe Kimray Jimmy Tompkins Grace Lower Thomas Walters Suzanne Lucey Town of Wake Forest Stacey Moritz WakeMed Ed Morris Todd Nelson CONTACT INFORMATION BallPointe Publishing & Design, LLC P.O. Box 1182 Wake Forest, NC 27588 919.453.2555 • info@circamagazine.com circamagazine.com ADVERTISING SALES 919.453.2555 • info@circamagazine.com MANAGERS Kent Lower & Mitch Lower Printed by Walton Press Inc.

AD SPACE RESERVATIONS APR / MAY / JUN 2022: February 22, 2022

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.

WHAT'S UP

WAKE FOREST? UPCOMING EVENTS TO FILL YOUR CALENDAR THIS WINTER BY TOWN OF WAKE FOREST

Happy New Year from the Town of Wake Forest! We are kicking off 2022 by offering several exciting events that will help you stay engaged and active. From musical performances and educational opportunities to film festivals and community celebrations, there’s something for everyone. So, get out your calendar and let’s get started!

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. COMMUNITY CELEBRATION

7:30 PM. Join us for a celebration of gospel music that connects community members of all cultures, ages, and backgrounds. Known for his soulful, husky voice, Pastor Kee will be backed by a talented six-piece band and a host of backup singers. The pastor of Charlotte’s New Life Fellowship Center, Kee is a widely acclaimed gospel musician with six solo albums to his credit, plus 20 more with his choir. A 2007 Christian Hall of Fame inductee, he has garnered several awards and honors for his singing and songwriting, including 27 Gospel Music Workshop of America Excellence awards. For more information, visit wakeforestrencen.org.

Several local churches and community organizations will honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during a free, public celebration at Friendship Chapel Baptist Church, located at 237 Friendship Chapel Road, on Thursday, January 20 at 6:30 PM. The event’s theme will center around one of King’s messages – “I have decided to stick to love … Hate is too great a burden to bear.” The Wake Forest MLK Committee will offer a slate of contests for students in the Wake Forest and Rolesville schools to recognize their talents. Based on this year’s theme, the contests involve creative performance, writing, and art. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “MLK.”

BLACK HISTORY MONTH February is Black History Month, and the Wake Forest Historic Preservation Commission is celebrating by partnering with the Wake Forest Historical Museum to offer two webinars on African American history in our community and state. There will also be weekly historic walking tours throughout the Northeast Community where residents can learn about its rich history. These events are free and open to everyone, but pre-registration is required. To learn more, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Black History Month.”

SHADES OF GOSPEL The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre will present the “Shades of Gospel” featuring Pastor John P. Kee on Saturday, February 5, at 6

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STATE OF THE TOWN ADDRESS AND DINNER

local, national, and international filmmakers. The two-day film showcase will engage audiences with films of all lengths and genres, including short and feature, documentary, horror, animation, and student (high school and college).

The 2022 Wake Forest State of the Town Address & Dinner is scheduled for Monday, February 21 at 6:00 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre. Since 2009, the Town of Wake Forest has partnered with the Wake Forest Rotary Club to sponsor the annual State of the Town Address and Dinner on the third Monday in February. The occasion offers Wake Forest citizens the opportunity to reflect on the Town’s list of accomplishments during the previous year and learn about its goals in the coming months.

Intended for both the general public and film professionals, the film festival is an opportunity for filmmakers to highlight their films in a unique location to a discerning audience. Tickets are $15 for both days. Visit wakeforestrencen.org for more information.

SONS OF MYSTRO

Tickets are limited; however, the mayor’s address will be replayed daily throughout the end of February and during the month of March on WFTV 10. It will also be available on demand on the Town website. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “State of the Town.”

The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre will welcome the “Sons of Mystro” on Thursday, March 24 at 7:00 PM. These incredibly talented brothers play over 10 different genres of popular music, using the violin instead of their voices to express a song’s lyrics.

WAKE FOREST FILM FESTIVAL

Reflecting their Caribbean roots, the Sons of Mystro have graced the same stage with reggae and dancehall veterans such as Marcia Griffiths, John Holt, Ken Boothe, Dobby Dobson, Freddie McGregor, Frankie Paul, Barrington Levy, and artists from the now generation such as Mr. Vegas, Beenie Man, Romain Virgo, and Etana. Many of these artists have expressed amazement

Mark your calendars for a cinematic tour de force! The Third Annual Wake Forest Film Festival is scheduled for Friday Saturday, March 4-5, at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre. Entitled “A Light in the Forest,” the Wake Forest Film Festival will spotlight passionate, creative, and thought-provoking movies by some of today’s most promising and accomplished

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January • February • March 2022

at the depth and variety of their musical selections and their innovative and artistic arrangements. Tickets are $12. For more information, visit wakeforestrencen.org.

FRIDAY NIGHT ON WHITE Everyone’s favorite event, Friday Night on White, is quickly approaching! The 2022 series dates are April 8, May 13, June 10, July 15, August 12, and will conclude on September 9. The free concerts are scheduled from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM along South White Street in historic downtown Wake Forest and feature a variety of popular local bands. To stay up to date on Friday Night on White, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Friday Night on White.”

STAY CONNECTED! Always be the first to know about Town of Wake Forest announcements, programs, and special events by signing up for E-Notifier, downloading the Town app, visiting the Wake Forest website, and/or following the Town on social media @ TownofWakeForest. For complete details, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Communications.”  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 919-435-9422 or abolton@wakeforestnc.gov.

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you have a plan, and drawings if needed, then you can move forward with bids for the job. This is not a quick process, especially in today’s world, so I recommend getting started with the planning process months in advance of when you want to actually start the renovation or remodeling project. Q: We would like to remodel our kitchen and get our hardwood floors refinished as well. Our budget will not allow us to do both simultaneously. Which do you recommend we do first? A: Definitely remodel the kitchen first. You most certainly would not want a kitchen remodel to mess up your brand-new floors! Keep in mind that if you are changing the footprint of the kitchen, some filling in of your floors may need to be done. If that is the case, your space may look like a remodeling zone until the time comes for you to refinish the floors.

BY RHONDA BENVIE PLUMMER

DECOR

DILEMMA?

DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS, AND HELPFUL HINTS

new year always means new beginnings. Many of us ponder what we can change in our lives to make them different, or even better. Our health and well-being. Our finances. Our relationships. Our surroundings fit into this thought process as well. With the arrival of 2022, maybe it’s time to make your living space different, or even better. But don’t know where to start? Worried about making big renovation or decorating mistakes? Odds are, you’re not alone in your feelings. In fact, I encounter these concerns quite often when discussing living space changes with homeowners. The following questions asked by readers fall into this category. Hopefully their answers help alleviate your worries and concerns. Q: My husband and I considered selling our home and buying a new one … but the market had us rethinking that, and we ultimately decided to stay put and make this house our forever home. However, there are lots of improvements that need to be made, and I just do not know where to start. Help! A: The first step is to devise a plan. Do you want to remodel everything at once, or in stages? Will you live in your home during the remodel? People tend to want pricing first, but unless you formed a plan as to what you are going to do, a contractor cannot financially quote the job accurately. A consultation with an interior designer who specializes in remodels is a great place to start. They can help establish a strategy and walk you through the process for your project, so you know where to begin. Once 10

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Q: I’m interested in taking on a few decorating tasks this year to give my home a bit of a facelift. Can you share some of the top design trends for 2022? A: When it comes to decorating items, the top trend is a throwback to vintage and antique pieces. I believe the supply chain issues we’ve been encountering as of late has made antiquing popular again. Mixing in and refinishing classic objects is very popular right now. Vintage design trends are back in a big, bold way. As for color, green is the hot new hue, along with warm tones of beiges and warm grays. Sherwin-Williams’ color of the year is “Evergreen Fog,” (photo courtesy of Sherwin-Williams) – as described on their website, it’s a “soothing, subtle, and perfect shade to freshen up any space.” Another trending tint for the year is Pantone’s color of the year – “Very Peri.” According to their website, this “dynamic periwinkle blue hue with a vivifying violet red undertone blends the faithfulness and consistency of blue with the energy and excitement of red.” Very Peri is a new Pantone color “whose courageous presence encourages personal inventiveness and creativity.” In contrast, black is back with a vengeance. You will see bold black making an appearance as accent walls, painted on doors, as a window color, and more. 2022 also welcomes texture that will abound from fabrics to furniture to accessories (again, with a vintage throwback – for instance, think velvet and rattan). Quite honestly, when it comes to decorating, nothing is taboo. Design your space with items, color, fabrics, and style that make you happy and bring you joy.  Rhonda Benvie Plummer is the owner of Help Me Rhonda Interiors and Open Door Furniture & Accents, a furniture and accessories store located at 11605 Durant Road in Raleigh. Visit helpmerhondainteriors.com or opendoorfurnitureandaccents.com or call 919263-9054. Rhonda is also a regular guest on WPTF’s “Making Your Home Great” radio show, the second Saturday of every month, when you can call in with any design questions you may have.

| January • February • March 2022

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Fortunately, there’s much you can do to create and manage your retirement income. Here are a few suggestions. CONSIDER WAYS TO BOOST INCOME. As you approach retirement, you’ll want to explore ways of potentially boosting your income. Can you afford to delay taking Social Security so your monthly checks will be bigger? Can you increase your contributions to your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored retirement plan, including taking advantage of catch-up contributions if you’re age 50 or older? Should you consider adding products that can provide you with an income stream that can potentially last your lifetime? CALCULATE YOUR EXPENSES. How much money will you need each year during your retirement? The answer depends somewhat on your goals. For example, if you plan to travel extensively, you may need more income than someone who stays close to home. And no matter how you plan to spend your days in retirement, you’ll need to budget for health care expenses. Many people underestimate what they’ll need, but these costs can easily add up to several thousand dollars a year, even with Medicare.

BY TOM PIPER

FINANCIAL

FOCUS

THINKING ABOUT YOUR RETIREMENT INCOME PLAN

f you’re getting close to retirement, you’re probably thinking about the ways your life will soon be changing. And one key transition involves your income – instead of being able to count on a regular paycheck, as you’ve done for decades, you’ll now need to put together an income stream on your own. How can you get started?

It’s helpful to begin thinking about retirement income well before you actually retire. Many people don’t – in fact, 61% of retirees wish they had done better at planning for the financial aspects of their retirement, according to an Edward Jones/Age Wave study titled “Retirement in the Time of Coronavirus: What a Difference a Year Makes.” 12

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REVIEW YOUR INVESTMENT MIX. It’s always a good idea to review your investment mix at least once a year to ensure it’s still appropriate for your needs. But it’s especially important to analyze your investments in the years immediately preceding your retirement. At this point, you may need to adjust the mix to lower the risk level. However, you probably won’t want to sell all your growth-oriented investments and replace them with more conservative ones – even during retirement, you’ll likely need some growth potential in your portfolio to help you stay ahead of inflation. CREATE A SUSTAINABLE WITHDRAWAL RATE. Once you’re retired, you will likely need to start taking money from your IRA and 401(k) or similar plan. But it’s important not to take too much out in your early years as a retiree, since you don’t want to risk outliving your income. A financial professional can help you create a sustainable withdrawal rate based on your age, level of assets, family situation, and other factors. By planning ahead, and making the right moves, you can boost your confidence in your ability to maintain enough income to last throughout your retirement. And with a sense of financial security, you’ll be freer to enjoy an active lifestyle during your years as a retiree.  Tom Piper is a financial advisor with Edward Jones, located at 203 E. Whitaker Mill Road, Suite 107 in Raleigh. He may be reached at 919-833-3390 (office) or 386-299-2434 (cell). For more information, visit edwardjones.com.

| January • February • March 2022

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LET'S GET

MOVING 7 EXERCISES YOUR BODY CRAVES FOR A LONGER, HEALTHIER LIFE

If you want to feel better, and maybe even look younger, you need to get moving. The hardest part is getting started, especially now amidst the hallmarks of winter – short days, cold temperatures, and cozy clothes. Daily movement can enhance the quality of your life, your day, your week,

enjoyment to help you attain that physiologic benefit and endorphin release,” adds Dr. Moore. “My preference is to exercise outdoors while enjoying the fresh air. You also reap the benefits of sunshine and create some extra Vitamin D.” Ultimately, the goal of daily movement and healthy lifestyle routines is to ward off chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension,

and the months ahead.

“

our body needs, enjoys, and craves exercise. Movement, specifically exertional movement, releases central endorphins that create a wonderful feeling within the body and produce anti-aging qualities,” says Dr. Michael Moore, a WakeMed primary care physician. And once you are in a routine, your body will crave that movement and eventually thank you.

HOW MUCH AND HOW FAST? The American Heart Association’s recommendation is to take 10,000 steps per day, which equates to about five miles. While 10,000 steps may seem daunting, your movement and steps add up throughout the day. A few small additions make 10,000 steps an absolutely attainable goal. And, be sure to put a little pep in your step when you can. Intensity matters. If you are able to hold a conversation during your workout and are not short of breath from your exertional level, you may need to push yourself a bit harder (although it’s still better than sitting on the couch). “As a primary care provider, I highly recommend an hour of exercise daily, at your own level of increasing vigorous intensity and 14

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and coronary artery disease – along with decreasing the risks for stroke and cancer. “In staying focused on your commitment to movement, you have this prescription, free of charge, to improve your health and wellbeing for years to come,” says Dr. Moore. “You’ll start to see changes in your body and drops in critical health markers like cholesterol, glucose, and blood pressure.”

7 EXERCISES FOR A LONGER, HEALTHIER LIFE

1. OVERHEAD SQUATS (20 REPS, 5 SETS): Stand, reach for the ceiling, and place your hands in front and squat like a skier. Hold this for a few seconds, then extend back upright to a standing position and repeat. Intensify by adding dumbbell weights. 2. ARM CIRCLES (20-50 ROTATIONS): Stand with your arms extended laterally. Begin small arm circles forward, about a 6-inch radius. Count each rotation. Intensify by adding small hand weights. 3. STRAIGHT LEG RAISE (30-50 REPS PER LEG): Lie on your back. Keep one leg bent at 90 degrees while the other lifts and lowers. Repeat on the opposite side. 4. SUPINE SUPERMAN (20-50 REPS, 3 SETS): Lie on your back. Lift your legs and head off the mat. Engage your core. Keep your legs squeezed together as you release and lower your legs to the mat and then draw your knees in. Repeat. 5. MULE KICK (20-50 PER SET, 3 SETS): While on all fours, kick one leg directly backward. Once fully extended, raise the entire leg slowly by a few inches using the largest muscle in your body, the gluteus maximus. All of these reps and sets can be as little or as much as you can tolerate. Repeat on both legs. 6. PLANK (60 SECONDS, 3 SETS): Hold the plank position on your forearms (drop to your knees if needed). 7. PUSH-UPS (10-20 REPS, 5-10 SETS): For these exercise sets, take your time and go slow. Hold the position and use smooth and symmetric movements. Remember to relax your breathing, inhale with one direction of movement, and exhale with the next, slowly. Above all, what matters most is to simply move your body. It’s not how you do it, but that you do it.  The best way to take control of your health is to develop a relationship with a primary care physician. Any of the 17 WakeMed Primary Care locations can help you get started with an exercise program along with nutritional support for calorie needs and muscular benefits. For more information, visit wakemed.org.

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market currently here in the Triangle, you still need to ensure your house is in the best possible condition. This will help you to receive competitive offers, and increase the price for which your home will sell. REPAIR/DECLUTTERING: Now that you are aware of what needs to be repaired or addressed, you need a game plan to take care of them, whether it be painting walls and ceilings, replacing carpet, patching holes in the walls, decluttering, removing family photos, minimizing furniture in the house, and so forth. This all goes toward creating a blank canvas for eventually staging your home (this will also help in the upcoming moving process as well). “Why do I have to remove family photos,” you ask? Because it’s vital for potential buyers to be able to visualize your current house as their future home. When you leave these types of photos out, they think about the house as being your family’s, not theirs. This step in prepping your home for sale is a tough one, as it’s hard to begin letting go of the house that has helped you create those memories. But I assure you, this is an important part of the process. Once you have decluttered and made the necessary repairs that were discussed in your walkthrough, it’s time to tackle the home staging step. BY JONATHAN DANIEL

PRE-SALE PREP AND

STAGING

f you are planning to sell your home, it is important to think about how to best position it to ensure you receive top dollar in this market. Pre-sale preparation and home staging will help you do just that. Based on buyer survey data from the National Association of Realtors, “82% said staging a home made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home.”

Your realtor should provide you with a plan of how they want the house to look when it goes on the market, and the necessary steps you need to take to put your home’s best foot forward. This process is multi-layered, and I want to break out each step for you. INITIAL WALKTHROUGH: Your agent will identify and share with you the things that need to be repaired or addressed before listing your home. It is important to realize that even though it is a sellers’ 16

CIRCA Magazine

STAGING: Staging is important for all the reasons I have just shared. However, it does much more than just help with selling your home quickly and getting you the best possible price. It also helps to distract potential buyers from noticing small defects around your home and keeps them focused on the space around them. When selling an empty home, it is easier for a potential buyer to focus on all the little details of it, as opposed to visualizing the space as their living room, dining room, mudroom, bedroom, etc. According to the National Association of Realtors “96% of buyers agents say staging has an effect on some buyers’ view of the home” at which they were looking. That same survey states that 52% of staged homes bring in higher prices than those that are not staged. It is important that you and your agent have a clear plan for this part of the pre-selling preparation process. Be aware though, that not all real estate firms include staging in their listing agreements, and will instead refer you to staging businesses – this can be an additional cost on the selling side. Once you have staged your home, it will be time for high-quality professional pictures that showcase the wonderful spaces within … and then you are ready to finally list it on the Multiple Listing Service. The initial walkthrough, repair and decluttering, and staging steps are all important phases of selling in today’s hot real estate market. It’s the job of your realtor to help you navigate these steps as seamlessly as possible, setting you up for home selling success, and ensuring you get the best possible results.  Jonathan Daniel is a realtor with Bespoke Realty Group. He may be reached at 919-283-1122 or visit bespokerealtygroup.com.

| January • February • March 2022

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keeping out dust and allergens, and sets a tone of productivity and accomplishment for the rest of the day. PREP FOR YOUR MORNING THE NIGHT BEFORE. Figure out what you are going to wear. Wash, iron, and lay out clothes. Pack lunch. Anything that makes your mornings less harried and rushed will minimize the time you spend in high-adrenaline, stress mode during each day. MAKE LISTS: Lists can help keep you on track, whether it’s the day’s errands, the grocery list, or even books you want to read. CLEAN AS YOU GO. Rather than having to dedicate an entire morning to picking up around the house, just pick up as you go, instead of leaving it all until later. Fold the laundry when the dryer is done (and go ahead and put it away). Take out the trash after dinner. These easy efforts will keep small jobs from turning into one large, daunting one.

BY TODD NELSON

NEW YEAR NEW HABITS

DO NOW. When you see something that needs doing – a light bulb or battery that needs changing, a picture that needs hanging – do it right then instead of letting it hang over you like a black cloud. EAT THE RAINBOW. Phytonutrients give fruits and veggies their brilliant colors. Eating the rainbow – red, yellow, orange, green,

GOOD PRACTICES FOR A HAPPY AND HEALTHY 2022 How often have you made a big New Year’s resolution (“I will lose 40 pounds; go to the gym every day; quit [bad habit]”), only to fail by the second week of January? This year, instead of setting one giant goal, try establishing a few easy, good habits to crowd out the bad ones. Just a couple of new good habits can accumulate to all the things you really want, such as improved health, less stress, and more happiness. Here are a few ideas to get you started. SLEEP MORE, SLEEP BETTER. Go to bed earlier. Leave electronic devices – phones, tablets – elsewhere. Set your alarm for the time you really intend to rise and stop hitting snooze, which only trades deep sleep for a less restful variety. Also, tune into natural circadian rhythms by exposing yourself to sunlight during the day and keeping your environment dark-ish at night. MAKE YOUR BED EVERY MORNING. Studies show this actually leads to more restful sleep. It also makes your bed healthier by 18

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purple, blue – is an easy way to ensure you get a full range of vital nutrients into your body every day. MOVE A LITTLE EACH HOUR. Walk. Stretch. Squat. Shake. Jiggle. Dance. Jump rope. Exercise with hand weights. Do anything that gets your circulatory and lymphatic systems moving.

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FIND ONE TINY WAY TO SAVE EACH DAY. Take the money you save by performing minor money-saving tasks like clipping coupons and put it into an account or take advantage of programs that automatically transfer “loose change” from transactions into savings or investment accounts. At year-end, you can spend it all on a luxury you really want. FINISH PROJECTS. Instead of tackling 10 tasks at a time, focus on just one or two for a set amount of time. Organize your messy garage; clean out your pantry that is full of outdated canned goods and old spices; go through your coat closet ... no matter what project you start, be mindful to complete it. Not only will you check it off your to-do list, you’ll enjoy that sense of accomplishment.

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…drawing out your vision

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BE KIND. OFFER COMPLIMENTS. Everyone has bad days ... but don’t let your bad day ruin someone else’s. Being nice, whether to someone you know or a stranger you encounter during the day, makes you both feel better. Spread goodwill by complimenting and sharing nice words with those around you. Those words will make you feel pretty good, too. Contrary to what you might have read, it often takes much longer than 21 days to establish a new habit. Research shows, however, that – even if you mess up periodically – perseverance will get you there in the end. You just need to start somewhere and keep going!  Todd Nelson is the owner of MaidPro of Raleigh and Wake Forest. Visit maidpro. com/raleigh-north or call 919-871-9996.

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HIDDEN

GEMS

KEEP WARM BY SPARKING YOUR CURIOSITY BY ROBYN GOSS BENNAI

merican anthologist Terri Guillemets said, “The color of springtime is flowers; the color of winter is our imagination.” These words serve as inspiration to seek comfort in the cold by stimulating our minds. Fortunately, we are surrounded by places that can do just this. The Triangle has been called “the Smithsonian of the South” because of its many museums. Some of the ones featured here may be familiar, but there are surely some hidden gems listed that will set your imagination on fire and keep you warm during the winter months.

FOR LOVERS OF CREATIVITY North Carolina Museum of Art 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh The North Carolina Museum of Art has an expansive collection consisting of more than a dozen galleries. The variety of art hails from around the world and time periods, and you can discover their many special exhibits hosted throughout the year. While visiting, you can make cool art, enjoy live performances, or take a family-friendly tour. Their engaging programs and in-gallery materials invite you to look, talk, and interpret works of art together. CAM (Contemporary Art Museum) Raleigh 409 West Martin Street, Raleigh When you step inside the expansive, light-filled gallery space that was once a produce warehouse from the early 1900s, you will instantly feel the vibe of downtown Raleigh. Showcasing multiple levels of ever-changing art and fashion displays, CAM Raleigh also offers performance pieces, video installations, and live art demonstrations for a truly one-of-a-kind museum experience. The Gregg Museum of Art & Design at NC State University 1903 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh Per its website, this museum “sparks creativity and encourages exploration through engaging exhibitions, relevant programming, and thought-provoking educational experiences. Focusing on outstanding examples of art, craft, and design, the museum utilizes cross-disciplinary collaborations and its extensive collections to foster critical thinking and expand worldviews.” The Gregg 20

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Museum strives to serve the diverse population of NC State and the surrounding communities in an inclusive manner.

FOR NATURALLY CURIOUS MINDS North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences 11 West Jones Street, Raleigh This North Carolina gem is the largest institution of its kind in the southeastern United States, and is our state’s most visited museum. Dedicated to science and nature, it hopes to empower visitors by offering an understanding of the natural world while promoting conservation. As described on their website, “Have you ever touched the bones of a Right Whale? Come face-to-face with a Cretaceous carnivore? Sat in the center of the Earth to hear a scientist talk? You can do all of that and more in the exhibits of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences! Our location in downtown Raleigh includes the Nature Exploration Center and Nature Research Center, filled with dioramas, theaters, and interactive experiences.” Museum of Life and Science 433 West Murray Avenue, Durham “Your home for wonder, curiosity, and discovery,” the Museum of Life and Science shares with visitors 84 acres of open-ended science and nature experiences that are designed to spark imagination, creativity, and new ways of thinking about our world. Several exhibits include the butterfly house (pictured), Carolina wildlife, the Dinosaur Trail, and the insectarium. The Randleigh Dairy Heritage Museum 301 Dairy Lane, Raleigh This NC State University museum provides a unique agricultural experience for children and adults – a visit shares how milk gets from the farm to the table. The interactive museum allows visitors to learn how cows are raised, how they produce milk, and how milk is used to make products we use on a daily basis. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center 250 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill Morehead Planetarium and Science Center offers visitors behindthe-scenes views of current science research through activities and

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programs for the entire family. Recently remodeled, this gem embodies the process of discovery, reimagined. Guests are treated to state-of-the-art exhibits and an exciting slate of shows, including “Carolina Skies,” one of the longest-running shows at the planetarium that takes visitors on a guided tour of the nighttime sky as it appears on a North Carolina night. This “live” show is led by a Morehead educator and focuses on stars, planets, and constellations.

FOR TIME TRAVELERS North Carolina Museum of History 5 East Edenton Street, Raleigh North Carolina boasts a rich history that can be explored thanks to the Museum of History’s collections of artifacts and historical materials. Visitors can delve into the Old North State’s history through programs, events, and exhibitions that celebrate its past, present, and future. A handful of the current exhibits (open as of press time) include “Blackbeard’s Queen Anne’s Revenge, 1718: The Legend of Blackbeard,” “Beach Waves: Making Music in the Carolinas,” and “The Story of North Carolina.” NC Sports Hall of Fame 5 East Edenton Street, Raleigh If you are a sports lover and want to learn about some of the most famous sports players in the state, then you need to head over to the NC Sports Hall of Fame. Housed within 3,000 square feet on the third floor of the just-mentioned Museum of History, this museum features more than 200 items proudly representing 363 of our state’s sports heroes. Walk among legends as you explore exhibits that showcase champion driver Richard Petty’s stock car, Meadowlark Lemon’s Harlem Globetrotters basketball uniform, NC State University coach Kay Yow’s Olympic team basketball, Jim Beatty’s running shoes, Charlie “Choo Choo” Justice’s UNC-Chapel Hill football jersey, and Mike Krzyzewski’s Duke University warm-up jacket.

as the College’s legendary sports programs and athletes. Within the walls of the museum, visitors are treated to exhibits depicting life in the Town of Wake Forest, the Mill Village, Forestville, the Harricane, and other surrounding areas. This is not a comprehensive list of all area museums, but rather a sampling of what gems can be discovered nearby. Many others, such as the Joel Lane House in Raleigh, the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield, the North Carolina Baseball Museum in Wilson, and the Country Doctor Museum in Bailey, just to name a few, are waiting to tap into your creative, curious, or history-loving side. If you aren’t up to braving the cold and prefer to stay inside, many of these museums have virtual content to explore online. Engaging in these artistic, scientific, and historical treasures will keep your mind sharp and brighten the dark days of winter. As Russian playwright and short story writer Anton Chekhov said, “People don’t notice whether it’s winter or summer when they are happy.” A visit to these local gems – whether in-person of virtually – will surely bring a smile to your face.  If you know of a “Hidden Gem” you think our readers should learn about in a future issue, please let us know at info@circamagazine.com! Robyn Goss-Bennai is a local writer and can be reached at robyngossbennai@gmail.com.

North Carolina Railway Museum & New Hope Valley Railway 3900 Bonsal Road, New Hill NCRM is an “open-air” facility with a collection of historic and heritage railroad equipment dating back to the 1920s, including two steam locomotives, more than a half-dozen diesel engines, covered open-air excursion cars for passengers, a working garden railroad (G Scale), and numerous artifacts of North Carolina railroad history. The rail yard was designed to show visitors what a typical short line railroad looked like in North Carolina in the 1950s. The NCRM also operates the New Hope Valley Railway so that visitors can experience a ride on the historic railroad. Wake Forest Historical Museum 414 North Main Street, Wake Forest This local gem is located in the historic Calvin Jones House. Visitors interested in the history of Wake Forest College will discover exhibits dedicated to the Medical School and Law School, as well

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overdue family meal or for a gathering of friends for a nice dinner and a glass of wine, shows that you’ve taken the extra step to make your guests feel welcome, appreciated, and loved. Napkin rings are the perfect finishing touch for such a setting. One of my favorites is an easy-to-make DIY craft that features beaded rings with tassels, feeding off of today’s popular farmhouse trend. For this project, you will need 16 mm wood beads, twine (jute or baker’s), scissors, upholstery needle, a 4-inch wide piece of cardboard, and a tape measure.

BY DOLORES RIGGINS

CRAFTY WAYS

TO CHASE

THE WINTER BLUES AWAY Chilly days. Colder nights. Winter is here, and odds are likely you’re spending more time indoors where it’s nice and warm. And while sitting by the fire and binge watching your favorite TV show is nice sometimes, winter boredom quickly creeps up on us. To chase that boredom away, tap into your creative

side and tackle a couple of simple yet fun craft projects. he two I am featuring here today both make great gifts for friends and family if you’re in need of a birthday or hostess gift, or a little something to show some love to those special people in your life this Valentine’s Day.

DRESS UP YOUR DINNER TABLE

In today’s busy world, setting a beautiful table isn’t something we do nearly often enough. But a lovely tablescape, whether for a long 22

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To begin, use the tape measure to cut a 20-inch piece of twine (go ahead and cut out the corresponding amount of pieces needed for the number of rings you intend to craft). Thread the needle with one of the 20-inch twine pieces and string beads onto it. Then wrap twine (from the roll) about 16 times around the 4-inch wide piece of cardboard (you can do more, if you prefer – the number does not have to be exact). Next, slide this off the cardboard while maintaining its circular shape. Cut the twine in half. This gives it a U-shape and will become your napkin ring’s tassel. Again, if you are making a set, go ahead and prepare the twine for the tassels for the additional rings. Tie this onto the beaded piece of twine with the excess string (I suggest double-knotting it). At this point, wrap one length clockwise around the top of the tassel, where it’s connected to the napkin ring. Then wrap the other piece counterclockwise. Tie the ends of the twine together, pulling tightly, and finish by trimming the ends if needed. Once complete, you have just crafted beautiful adornments for your dinner table. Your friends and family are sure to be impressed that you knocked these out on a cold winter day, and will appreciate knowing you went the extra mile to make them feel appreciated.

SPELL OUT YOUR LOVE As you know, Valentine’s Day falls right in the middle of Ol’ Man Winter’s favorite time of year – again, a wonderful indoor opportunity to create something special for loved ones and friends. There are so many creative and fun crafting ideas for this holiday that I found it awfully hard to choose just one to share. But after much thought, I decided on the super cute and functional Scrabble letter coasters that spell L-O-V-E. The wonderful thing about this simple-to-make project is that it can be used as a gift any time of the year, not just for Valentine’s Day. For this endeavor, you will need wood squares that measure about 4” x 4” or 4.5” x 4.5”. These can be found at any store that sells craft supplies. Choose a wood stain that you like. (Stains can now be found in marker form, making this part of the process even easier because it dries almost immediately.) If you don’t already have some on hand, pick up a small can of stain varnish sealer. You will

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also need black vinyl adhesive letters and numbers that can be purchased or cut with a vinyl cutting machine. I use heavy duty outdoor vinyl. For 4-inch squares, letters should be cut to 3 inches and numbers (representing the Scrabble letter’s point value) should be cut to 1 inch. Add half an inch to each letter and number if you choose 4.5-inch squares. If you are feeling a little more adventurous and have a steady and artistic hand, you may opt to hand-paint these with a black paint. You will also want to add adhesive-backed felt to the coasters’ bottoms in order to protect your furniture.

the beer lover in your life. “Teas, Shot, Foam, and Chai” are perfect for the coffee and tea drinkers out there.

Gently sand the wood squares, ensuring there are no rough places or sharp edges. Using the stain or stain marker, color each piece. Apply (or paint) the letters and numbers, making them look like Scrabble squares. Brush on a coat of stain varnish sealer and allow to dry completely. Finally, cut the adhesive felt to the size of the wood and apply to the back. Stack the coasters in the correct order and tie a pretty ribbon around the stack – within no time you have created gifts literally saying “love” for all your Valentines … all while passing the time on a dreary winter’s day.

Then apply a thin line of wood glue on the bottom of the first line of letters, adhering the tiles together, and continue this process until all tiles have been glued and your coaster is finished. Allow the coaster to dry, and add the final touch by adhering adhesivebacked felt to the bottom of the coasters.

Another fun alternative is to take actual game tiles and create a coaster displaying fun (and maybe funny) sayings – it’s so easy to personalize to your taste or that of someone to whom you may be gifting them. Think “Drinks are on me” for a clever way of encouraging guests to use a coaster. Or “Brew, Hops, Ales, and Beer” for

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To get started, lay the tiles in the order you’d like them to be on the coaster, making sure it's square (4 tiles x 4 tiles is suggested). For any spaces, use blank tiles. Place a thin line of wood glue on the right side of the first letter, then attach the second letter to it (make sure they are lined up straight). Continue gluing the tiles together until the coaster's top line is finished.

Winter calls for the cozy comfort of crafting. If you find yourself craving some crafty time one upcoming chilly day, brew up your favorite coffee blend or warm up a cup of hot chocolate, snuggle up with your favorite blanket, and craft the day away with these fun and simple projects that are sure to make that cold, dreary day feel a little bit warmer.  Dolores Riggins is the co-owner of Southern Suds & Gifts, featuring over 35 craftsmen and artists, located at 213 S. White St. in Downtown Wake Forest (www.facebook.com/SouthernSudsAndGifts).

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“CHILI”

THE PERFECT MEAL FOR A

NIGHT BY JOE KIMRAY

inter is here! The days are cold, and the nights even colder. For me, that means it’s time to break out a cast iron dutch oven and cook up something that will warm not only the soul, but also the body.

This season is great for stews and soups – but for me, winter is all about chili. Meals like these can easily be modified to fit every sort of diet, as well as personal tastes. They are also an easy way to feed a crowd of people gathering around the TV to watch the big game. Another great thing about recipes in this realm are the many ways that you can prepare them. You can cook on a range, on a smoker, or even over an open wood fire. You can change a lot about the flavor of a dish simply by altering the method with which it is cooked.

CLASSIC BEEF AND CHORIZO CHILI

I use a lot of different chili recipes, but one of my family’s most enjoyed ones came into our lives a few years back courtesy of Traeger Grills (traeger.com/recipes/traeger-beef-chili). This version incorporates both chorizo and ground beef, combined in a large dutch oven with veggies and spices for a dish everyone will love. – 1 pound ground chorizo sausage – 1 pound ground beef – 2 tablespoons butter – 1 green bell pepper, diced – 1 red bell pepper, diced – 1 yellow onion, diced – 2 cloves garlic, minced – 2 tablespoons tomato paste – 2 cans (15 ounces) ranch style beans – 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce – 1 can (14.5 ounces) stewed tomatoes – 3 tablespoons Mexican oregano – 3 tablespoons chili powder – 3 tablespoons cumin – 2 bay leaves – Salt 24

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When ready to cook, set grill temperature to 350 degrees and preheat, lid closed, for 15 minutes. Brown chorizo and ground beef in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat and set aside. Melt butter in Dutch oven, then add peppers and onion. Sauté for 10 minutes until onions are lightly browned. Add garlic and sauté two minutes more. Add tomato paste and cook until color changes from bright red to rust. Add beans, tomato sauce, and stewed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and stir in oregano, chili powder, cumin, and bay leaves. Season with salt to taste. Place Dutch oven directly on the grill grate and cook 45-60 minutes, adding liquid (ie. stock or water) as needed. Adding liquid to the chili while it is on the grill helps it from getting too dry. Personally, I find that using a can of Kölsch beer gives the chili a great flavor that stock or water can’t match! We cook this chili in our 7-quart cast iron dutch oven directly on the grill grates of our wood pellet grill. This allows for incorporation of the added flavor provided by the smoke of the wood fire in the grill, but doesn’t require you to be the one who has to manage the temperature of an outdoor wood fire. We always put out a buffet of toppings to accompany the chili – sour cream, cheese, jalapeños, scallions, cilantro, hot sauce, etc. – so everyone can personalize their bowls with flavors of their choosing.

CORNBREAD - THE PERFECT PAIRING Now, in our family, no chili meal is complete without a great cornbread with which it can be paired. Cornbread helps to cut the heat from a spicy chili, and also helps to make it a heartier meal overall. My family’s go-to cornbread recipe is a modification we make to a true southern classic. We take a box of Jiffy Corn Muffin mix and use their recipe for “Green Chile and Cheese Cornbread” (https://site.jiffymix.com/recipe/cheese-and-chili-cornbread/) – but swap out the green chiles for fresh-diced jalapeño peppers. This results in a typical cornbread with a slightly sweet flavor, but also gives a little extra kick.

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Since cornmeal is inherently dry, this recipe also incorporates sour cream to help keep it moist. We also use cheddar cheese instead of monterey jack cheese, which adds a rich cheesy flavor to it. – 1 package “JIFFY” Corn Muffin Mix – 3 eggs – 1 can (8¾ ounces) whole kernel corn, drained – 1 can (4 ounces) green chiles, chopped (again, I prefer to substitute jalapeños) – 1 teaspoon baking powder – 1 cup sour cream – ¼ cup margarine or butter, melted – 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, coarsely grated (again, I prefer to substitute cheddar cheese) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. While the recipe calls for a greased 9” square pan, we prefer to use a 10” cast iron skillet. This keeps the cornbread from getting too thick, but also allows us to cut it into wedges like a pie. Serving it like this way helps make it easier to dip into that delicious bowl of chili! Lightly beat eggs; add corn and chiles (or jalapeños). Add remaining ingredients. Mix until blended. Pour into pan. Bake 4045 minutes, or until lightly browned. One of the best parts about this cornbread recipe is that you can cook it on the grill right beside the chili. Both the chili recipe and the cornbread recipe call for a temperature of 350 degrees, so you’re able to grill them at the same time. I hope that you all stay warm this winter, and take the time to try out these two recipes on those cold winter nights.  Joe Kimray is one of the owners of B & W Hardware, located at 232 S. White St. in historic downtown Wake Forest. They are a family owned-and-operated hardware store, serving Wake Forest and the surrounding communities since 1949. B & W Hardware is a Traeger Grills Platinum Dealer, and the largest dealer in NC. Visit wakeforesthardware.com for more information.

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SEASONAL SELLING

HOW TO GET YOUR HOME READY FOR A WINTER SALE

BY ALLISON CAUDLE ABBOTT

Even in a hot seller’s market, preparing your home for sale is still key to making sure you get top dollar. At times, the preparation can seem like a daunting task. The first impression that a home has on a potential buyer is crucial. Buying a home is very much about making an emotional connection with it, and these tips for preparing your house for the

– KEEP UP THE CURB APPEAL. Even though leaves have fallen, adding in pops of color to the porch for warmth is crucial. Throwing pillows on chairs and a welcome mat on the front porch is a great – and easy and inexpensive – way to do this. If you have a back patio, keep furniture out, clean, and decorated so that buyers are able to visualize outdoor living. Sometimes, the outdoor living space is just as much a deciding factor in purchasing a home as the indoor living space.

market are sure to pull at a buyer’s emotions.

hether making sure the lighting is just right, keeping up curb appeal, decluttering the entryway, or putting away the holiday decorations, this is an important process for listing your home. Hopefully this checklist will make your efforts easier if you’re planning on selling your home this winter. – MAKE SURE ALL HOLIDAY DECORATIONS ARE PUT AWAY. It can be hard for buyers to envision themselves in a home when someone else’s holiday decorations are up, especially when it’s after the holiday season. Doing so will also keep your listing feeling fresh and up-to-date with all holiday decor picked up and packed up, the house freshly cleaned, and ready and waiting for its new owners. – MAKE SURE THE LIGHTING IS GOOD. Because of shorter daylight hours during the winter months, you’ll want to be sure that the lighting both inside and out are on, and that all bulbs are working. A dark home can feel quite unwelcoming, and in some cases, unsafe. – KEEP THE HEAT UP. Winter months mean cooler temps, so be sure to set the thermostat to around 72 degrees, so when potential buyers come through your home, they feel comfortable and warm. If the home is too cool, it may be hard for them to feel welcome.

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– KEEP THE ENTRYWAY OPEN. Winter months often mean added items in the entryway, such as coats, boots, and shoes. Tuck those away neatly in a closet or other storage area to minimize items at entryways and mudrooms. This will allow the space to feel more open and welcoming when a potential buyer first walks into your home. Bonus tips if you are purchasing a new construction home: – RESEARCH THE BUILDER AND NEIGHBORHOOD. Ensuring that the builder preforms high-quality work is a great idea. This is likely one of the most important purchases of your life. – KEEP RESALE VALUE TOP OF MIND. At some point, you may want to sell the home. How will another buyer feel about the selections you are making? – ALWAYS GET A HOME INSPECTION. Yes, even though it’s brand new, always get a home inspection. – RESEARCH YOUR HOME WARRANTY. Not all warranties are created equal. It’s important to know what is covered, and also what needs to happen to initiate a claim. – GET YOUR OWN AGENT. The listing agent works for the builder. Having your own representation who works for you is key. 

Allison Caudle Abbott is the owner and broker-in-charge of Southern Lux Living, serving buyers and sellers throughout the Triangle. She may be reached at 919-395-6186 or visit www.southernluxliving.com.

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MOVING? DOES HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COVER YOUR BELONGINGS?

BY THOMAS WALTERS

hen moving, you of course will be transporting a number of important belongings to your new home. Some may be important for their sentimental value, and others because of their financial value. Regardless of their significance, keeping those belongings safe during transit from your old home to your new one is vital. However, we all know sometimes things happen – items break, damage occurs, things go missing, and so forth. Should this unfortunate situation take place, it’s good to know beforehand whether or not your homeowners insurance protects your possessions if something happens to them during the move. The answer is, not necessarily. While homeowners insurance generally does help cover your personal possessions, the loss has to be related to a peril that’s listed in your policy. For instance, covered perils generally include risks like fire and theft. So, if there’s a theft out of the moving truck, you may find that homeowners insurance helps cover the loss. Your homeowners insurance policy may provide coverage for belongings damaged during a move in certain situations. If the moving truck is in an accident while transporting your belongings and your property is damaged, you’d likely be covered by your homeowners policy, for example. In some cases, though, you may see that your coverage limits are lower while your belongings are being transported. Your insurance agent can help answer any questions about your specific policy.

KNOW YOUR DEDUCTIBLE The deductible from your personal property coverage will still apply. That’s the amount you’ll pay before your insurance coverage kicks in. So, for instance, if you have a $1,000 deductible and $5,000 worth of furniture is stolen from the moving truck, you’ll typically find that your policy will reimburse you $4,000, as long as it’s within the limits of your policy.

KNOW YOUR LIMITS It’s also important to know that, whether it’s during a move or not, any property covered by homeowners insurance will only be protected up to the limits on your policy. Your policy may also include 30

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a lower limit for your personal property while it is away from your home. Talk to your agent to find out how your own policy may help protect your belongings during your move. In addition, there are different standard limits depending on the category of property. For instance, your policy may state maximum coverage amounts for valuables such as jewelry or baseball cards. You may be able to purchase additional protection, called scheduled personal property coverage, for specific, high-value items.

UNDERSTAND THEFT VERSUS BREAKAGE While your homeowners policy will likely cover theft, when it comes to damaged property, it isn’t likely to provide coverage for items that break during your move. Suppose your movers drop a table and the legs break off, or if they tear the canvas on that expensive oil painting. A typical homeowners insurance policy won’t cover breakage, but you may find that a moving company offers its own insurance for that type of risk. Once again, scheduling items of significant value, such as that expensive painting, may offer greater coverage, and the scheduled item will typically be covered, no matter where the loss or damage happens.

TALK TO YOUR AGENT By contacting your insurance agent a month or so prior to your move, you can learn what type of coverage your current policy may provide for it, go over your change of address, and review coverage options and limits for your new place. This is also an opportunity to go over any expected changes to your premiums with the new home. Talking with your agent well in advance of your move is an opportunity to ensure that you have all the coverages you want when you move to your new home. Then, with the protections you need solidly in place, you can focus on getting settled in your new home and enjoying the days, months, and years ahead.  Thomas Walters is the owner of Walters Insurance Agency, located at 3207 Rogers, Road, Suite 100 in Wake Forest. Call 919-554-0267 or email twalters@allstate.com for help with all your insurance needs.

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WINTER DISHES BY STACEY MORITZ

As the warm glow of the holiday season has waned and we are settling into the chill of winter, we find ourselves craving comforting food and hearty family dinners. However, even though the hectic holiday season is now a wonderful mem-

and be sure to add plenty of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage for added flavor. Served atop your favorite platter and you’ve instantly created a beautifully appetizing presentation for any winter table. If you are lucky enough to have leftovers after your loved ones have

ory, life still gets busy this time of year – so hearty meals that don’t take hours to prepare are a must. Personally, I am a big fan of one-dish dinners … and an even bigger fan of letting leftovers star again another night for meals that work

overtime with minimal effort! f I were to name my very favorite winter dinner, it would be roast chicken and potatoes, hands down. Humble ingredients that are anything but fussy can soothe the soul and allow the stresses of the day to fall away. The beauty of this dinner mainstay is that it can be simple or elegant without a lot of expense or effort. Even better, the remnants can be folded into a soup or stew for a quick meal later in the week. My favorite way to roast a chicken is to cut away the backbone of a whole one so that it can lay flat in the roasting pan, skin side up. This allows the chicken to cook more evenly, resulting in a crispy skin that will give you so much flavor while keeping it juicy and preventing it from drying out. The perfectly roasted chicken is simply rubbed with a little olive oil and sprinkled with cracked pepper and coarse salt. Winter root vegetables that cook in the same pan are delicious accompaniments for this robust dish – think baby carrots, fingerling potatoes, onions, and parsnips … 32

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sufficiently filled their bellies, you can transform them into a delicious soup or stew served over rice or mashed potatoes. Simply pull the chicken off the bone, chop any leftover veggies, and add a little chicken broth. Comfort food round two!

and wrapping them in large flour tortillas. Again, I’m all about doing as much meal making in advance as possible, so for some of my Sunday make-ahead dinner preps, I’ll wrap the burritos in aluminum foil and stick in the fridge, ready to grab and pop in the oven for a quick dish later that week. For a gluten-free option, you can cook some white or Spanish rice and let everyone create their own burrito bowls. Take out those canned beans from the pantry and pick up some fresh salsa and guacamole from the market for a tasty and fun family dinner made with very little effort.

To help make life a little calmer Monday through Friday, I often try to get a head start on the week’s meals by doing some meal prep on Sundays. One easy way I do this is by breaking out the slow cooker – this allows me to jumpstart the week’s dinners when the days are busy, while also enjoying a relaxing end to the weekend.

With just a little planning and imagination, you can create a healthy, hearty, delicious, and comforting meal your family will love – all while spending less time cooking and more time enjoying those cozy winter evenings together!  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 serves breakfast and lunch Monday Friday, 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM and Saturdays 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM.

My family loves brisket and pulled pork, so we often let our slow cooker do the hard work. I season the brisket or pork roast with some coarse salt and barbecue seasoning, then once it’s in the slow cooker, add the cooking liquid. You can use a chicken or beef broth if you like, but my personal favorite cooking liquid consists of two cups of ginger ale and one cup of water – trust me, your dish will come out deliciously perfect every time with this concoction. Set your slow cooker on low and let it do it’s thing for eight to 10 hours, until the meat is tender. Once cool enough to handle, simply pull your brisket or pork apart – now you’ve got the ideal culinary canvas ready for whatever you want to create! And be sure to keep some in the freezer – a quick thaw and you’re all set for a future meal. Toss the meat with your favorite barbecue sauce for a hearty sandwich while watching the game or make a quick chili or stew your kids will enjoy before their nightly dance rehearsal or after baseball practice. If you have some sweet potatoes on hand, bake them until soft, cut in half, and top with your pulled barbecue for a fresh take on a traditional southern favorite … so yummy! Feeling a little spicy this winter? Shredded meat is the foundation for the very best burritos. Creating them can be as simple as tossing the shredded meat with your favorite salsa and a handful of cheese

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January • February • March 2022

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DOW NTOWN

WAKE FOREST LIVE IT UP IN DOWNTOWN!

his winter, head on down to Downtown Wake Forest and discover all that awaits ... whether you’re looking to grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee, do some shopping, listen to some music, and more, you’re sure to find it here. It’s “Where Quaint Meets Cool” _ so come explore this unique variety of businesses, restaurants, shops, and more for yourself ... you’ll be glad you did!

wakeforestdowntown.com

̶ The Artists’ Loft

#WHEREQUAINTMEETSCOOL

COME DISCOVER IT FOR YOURSELF!

of a fitness exercise rather than a method to showcase one’s flexibility. Deep backbends are not necessary to master the practice or reap its benefits. Practicing yoga, even at its most basic level, can be the most rewarding in terms of creating a general sense of well-being. For starters, yoga begins with a very fundamental tool we already have – our breath. Pain analysts have found that becoming breath conscious and using breath to calm the nervous system can have an immediate effect on stress and pain levels. Chronic pain can lead to stress, and stress can lead to chronic discomfort in the body – thus, a vicious cycle ensues. Conscious and purposeful breathing exercises can be the gateway to feeling more present in the moment and in the body, halting the body’s uncomfortable responses to stressors and pain triggers.

YOGA BY ASHLEY SAYALOUNE

Many stresses and conditions can manifest in our bodies in ways that cause us to feel stiff, achy, and fatigued. This can be due to the fact that we may move less when we feel chronic fatigue and the inactivity produces stiffness and pain. It can be difficult to find the will to move and become active when it is painful, which can lead to a fear of movement. The result is less activity once again. In either scenario, less movement slows us down at an organic level and can keep us from feeling like we’re living to our fullest capacity.

AN AT-HOME TOOL TO PREVENT AND HELP ALLEVIATE CHRONIC PAIN There are many ideas regarding what yoga is and isn’t, and whether or not it is accessible to everyone. It isn’t just a meditative practice or a physical exercise. Yoga is the very personalized practice of building an awareness of how the body functions on an internal level and behaves in move ment. It is the study and cultivated connection between mind and movement that makes it unique to other move ment practices.

his very intentional practice has been revered throughout history for its therapeutic benefits. It has helped people with chronic illnesses and disease for decades. More so in the last century, yoga has become more

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Beginning a movement practice or exercise program with the intention of improving quality of life can feel as intimidating as it does inspiring. To ensure that it is safe and effective, start by observing current physical activity levels and recurring symptoms. Take notes when there is discomfort and determine if it might be connected to activity, inactivity, or other factors. This can be a great way to track your progress. When making more activity a part of your routine, start small with short, gentle classes that build slowly. They should be easily approachable and appropriate to practice at home. If too much activity, or symptoms of wear and tear are becoming an issue, it might be time to address movement with a more supportive mindset, with alternatives that can prevent injury.

support of things at home to become aware of position, sensation, breath, and their effects. Depending on targeted areas of discomfort, poses can be sequenced in a way that offers the most relief through stretching specific muscles and mobilizing joint areas. Yoga is a very progressive movement practice that can be challenging in unique ways to build strength that supports dayto-day activities and beyond. With regular practice and a knowledgeable guide, pain relief, injury prevention, and a more active lifestyle can be a very attainable reality for any who choose to pursue it.  Ashley Sayaloune is the founder and educator of Modified Movement in Wake Forest, offering private in-person and Zoom yoga and exercise instruction and lessons for those living with chronic conditions. She may be reached at 480-466-2605 or modifymymovement@outlook.com, or visit modifymymovement.com for more information.

Yoga is a great practice to increase movement and restore the body in a way that can be accessible to everyone. The practitioner can move at their own pace, using

CIRCA Magazine

January • February • March 2022

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BEYOND

BEIGE

BY AMY RIKHOFF

BREAKING FREE FROM DESIGN BOUNDARIES BY AMY RIKHOFF

n aspect of interior color schemes that has always interested me is the prevalence of white ceilings and the extended length of time for which this trend has persisted as an interior staple. Despite interior design trends evolving over time, many people still seem dedicated to white ceilings as an unspoken rule, or perhaps as an easy choice for novice decorators when selecting a color scheme for living spaces. Are we collectively keeping our ceilings white because “that’s how it has always been?” Do we still believe in time-old design myths, like the idea that darker colors make spaces feel confined, or that decorating exclusively with light colors gives the illusion of spaciousness? What about the stigma that bright, colorful walls are tacky? Or that kitchen cabinets must be painted a standard white, gray, or brown? To the surprise of most, these age-old design tales are actually false. Your living space should be exactly that – yours. It’s time to break free from color constraints set by society, and realize that selecting an interior color scheme is a personal choice not to be dictated by anyone other than those enjoying the space.

ing desires into your living space is definitely a boost of confidence. However, repainting can certainly be a life-interrupting event. Nobody wants to go through the effort of preparing their home for repainting their walls, cabinets, or doors if it is not deemed necessary, even if the current colors are not exactly harmonious with the intended vision. Though, I believe – and I assume many can agree – that after spending extended periods of time in our homes over the past few years, the spaces in which we live should be tranquil and enjoyable, with colors, softness, and warmth encouraging a productive space to live, work, run a business, or teach classes via

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably ask your friends and neighbors where they got their white and gray veined countertops, or what shade of white they chose for their foyer. While you may love those color selections in their houses, not everyone’s houses are meant to look identical. Is their neutral color scheme really what will make your home uniquely you? Are modern design trends what truly make you thrive in your surroundings? While good for them, I personally do not believe that the colors your best friend or your neighbor choose for their homes are necessarily fit for you and your family. The best route you can take is to formulate a space for the needs of your own situation; pick colors you actually like, not colors that fit the mold of today’s design fads. Feeling motivated to grab a paint can, roller, and brush, and get to work reinvigorating your living space to fit the color design of your own preference? I totally get it! Finally pouring your own decorat38

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video chat. While transforming your living space may seem daunting, unnecessary, or overwhelming, the process and end result can be highly rewarding and a nice challenge. Choosing colors for your home can be fun and a wonderful form of self-expression. Bending trends and thinking outside the crayon box can feel freeing, and will help you remain in control of your space. However, whether you feel confident in your color choices or weary that your decisions may fall short of your intended goals, it may be a great idea to contact a professional for guidance. It can be reassuring to receive help when picking your colors, and in most cases, consultations can be accomplished virtually. Also, having a design or color consultation can be an isolated expense that does not have to be attached to a pricey or extended design plan. As I mentioned previously, painting your interiors can sometimes be an interruption; however, painting the right colors for your home can add more value to your life than you might expect. Your improved moods and productivity simply from the colors of spaces in which you live can have positive impacts on your children and anyone else who interacts in your home. Realizing the truth about color and the worth of fitting a space to your desires is a short-term expense that harbors long-term benefits. Speaking of expenses, another myth held by most homeowners is that interior color will devalue a home and lower the potential

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resale price. This fear prevents so many people from truly making their living spaces feel like their own. However, with housing continuing to be such a hot commodity, I do not foresee homes in our area sitting on the market for long simply due to their interior paint colors. Paint is one of the least expensive home upgrades that can be made. It is not a slab of marble cut specifically for your space, nor is it a demolition project involving knocking down walls or reconstructing foundations. It’s just paint! So whether you hire a crew to have the process expedited or you are a DIY-er looking for a worthwhile task, there are resources to ensure your painting project boasts beautifully custom results. No longer is beige and white what will sell your property, so please do not limit the possibilities of truly adding value – physical and emotional – to the spaces that surround you. With all of this in mind, the main takeaway I hope you obtain is to not be afraid of color. It’s okay to press “pause” on certain aspects of your life to make room for a momentary project that will add quality to the places in which you spend much of your life. With just a touch of financial planning, creativity, and selfconfidence, you can truly breathe life into your home with just a little bit of paint.  Amy Rikhoff is the owner of Wake Forest Interiors. For more information, visit wakeforestinteriors.com.

January • February • March 2022

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My wife’s great grandmother always made crab cakes when she would visit as a child, but never shared her secret recipe. Seeing her great grandmother cooking in the kitchen was a special treat because she felt the love put into making the crab cakes. My wife saw the sweet smile of fulfillment on her great grandmother’s face upon seeing everyone’s satisfaction after eating. They were enjoying good food, but also seeing a matriarch do what she loved – cooking her favorites and watching her family enjoy them. Sharing favorite recipes allows others to taste and enjoy what we have grown to know and love. These dishes further the traditions that we have become accustomed to through gatherings with our family and friends. Following this tradition, I’m pleased to share with you one of my all-time favorites, Maryland crab cakes.

CRAZY BY BRACY DUTTON

MARYLAND CRAB CAKES (Serves 5) When making Maryland-style crab cakes, there are two very important things to remember. First, purchase “jumbo lump” crabmeat. Jumbo lump crabmeat is the best meat coming from the crab, ensuring optimum flavor. Second, and just as important, is to never fry your crab cakes. I know we often hear about “fried” crab cakes, but the truth of the matter is that when you fry them, you are removing their moisture. Instead, the best way to cook crab cakes is to “broil” them first to brown their edges, and then turn the temperature back to 325 degrees and finish baking off.

FOR CRAB CAKES

CARRY ON CULINARY TRADITIONS WITH THIS SEAFOOD STAPLE

rowing up on the eastern shore of Maryland, blue crab has been a part of my life as long as I can remember. Whether eating it on the back porch on a Saturday afternoon or watching the exciting crab derbies in Crisfield, crab was – and still is – a staple in my diet.

My wife has a similar story, often enjoying crabs with family as the sound of banging and cracking tried to drown out the laughing and stories told. Whether the opening act for more seafood or the main meal with a few accompaniments on the side, crab is such a dynamic crustacean and can be made into so many great dishes. Some of my favorites include crab dip, crab salad, crab soup, steamed crabs, and of course, crab cakes.

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– 1 pound of “jumbo lump” crabmeat – 1 large egg – 1 fresh squeezed lemon – ½ cup of mayonnaise – 11/2 table spoons of Worcestershire – 20 saltine crackers – 1 teaspoon of hot sauce – 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard – 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning – 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley Place lump crabmeat on wax paper and spread evenly. Carefully place paper towels gently on top of the crabmeat to remove any excess moisture. Once completed, the crab meat should be light and fluffy. Place saltine crackers in a resealable plastic bag and finely crush the crackers until they form crumbs. Combine eggs, mayonnaise, cracker crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, hot sauce, parsley, and Old Bay seasoning into a mixing bowl. Important step – before mixing, spray butter spray onto rubber gloves. This helps prevent the crabmeat from breaking up when mixing by hand. Gently mix crabmeat and liquid mixture together. Refrigerate for four hours (this allows the mixture to bond). After refrigeration, form into patties and pat dry. Broil for five minutes or until outer edge of crab cakes are golden brown. Once golden, reset oven to 350 degrees and bake for 10-12 minutes. 

There’s no dog breath here!

Bracy Dutton and his wife Bridget are the owners of Fishin’ Shrimp, serving Wake Forest and the surrounding area. Fishin’ Shrimp is bringing fried and steamed seafood specialties to the area via their food truck and is accepting party platter orders through their website for pick up or delivery most weekends. For more great seafood (that you don’t have to cook yourself), follow Fishin’ Shrimp on Facebook and Instagram @fishinshrimp and visit fishinshrimp.com.

FREE Feb 1 -28

TOOTHBRUSH! st

919-453-0765 | dirtydogsspa.com

Photo courtesy of Natasha Gentile of Femme Fromage & Co.

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929 Heritage Lake Rd Ste 500, Wake Forest, NC 27587 |

January • February • March 2022

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A TOAST TO

WINTER WARMING WINES AND BOLD BREWS

BY JOE O'KEEFE

Happy New Year to all you wine and beer fans! While the holidays are behind us and some of you no doubt are kicking off 2022 with a dry January (personally, if I were doing that, I would pick a shorter month), it is the best time of the year to enjoy robust beers that are darker in nature and big, bold wines that are higher in alcohol, as well as flavor. Both can be sipped by themselves or shared with a hearty meal – either way, they are sure to help you chase the winter blues away.

WINTER WINES Three delicious options – Barolo, Chateauneuf Du Pape, and Cabernet – perfectly satisfy our palates this time of year, as the temperatures drop and we crave warmer, full-bodied flavors. BAROLO: Known as the “King of Wines,” Barolo has a bold and tannic structure. Tannins are what give a wine its bite, but also its flavor. Barolo’s main grape is Nebbiolo, derived from the Latin word “nebulous” and first used to describe this grape because of the cloudy nature of its skin. In order for a Nebbiolo grape to transform into a Barolo wine, it has to age in a barrel for five years before being bottled. This extra time allows the acidity to work its magic and in concert with the fruit and the alcohol, creating a unique and flavorful winter weather option. I am not saying you cannot drink Barolo during the warm spring and summer months … you can certainly drink whatever wine you want, whenever you want. But the bold tannic structure of Barolo pairs especially well with the season’s colder temps. And a good juicy steak. CHATEAUNEUF DU PAPE: Even though you might not speak French, you probably guessed that this wine name refers to the house of the pope. And you’d be right, as this great winter wine option is named for the castle built by Pope John XXII during his 14th century residence in Avignon. This Southern Rhone appellation is best known for its exclusive Grenache-based red blends. The region actually produces both red and white wines, utilizing 42

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13 different grapes. While the Grenache is most commonly blended with Syrah, the Chateauneuf Du Pape Rouge bursts with raspberry flavors and its fuller body really makes this wine a cooler weather winner. But as I said, there are other grapes that can be added to the blend – most notably, Mourvedre. The combination of this trio creates a blend fondly referred to as a GSM. Your Chateauneuf Du Pape Rouge can be aged for 10-20 years. But there’s no reason to wait … this winter, go ahead and crack open a bottle that has been chilled down to 62 degrees, snuggle up by the fireplace or the firepit, and enjoy. CABERNET SAUVIGNON: A big Cabernet may seem like an obvious winter choice, but it’s important to know that not all Cabs are created equally. If you go the familiar route and grab one from California, you’ll probably need to start in the $22+ range for one that is higher in alcohol and presents the complex and ripe flavors of plum and chocolate that really dance on your tongue. In the same vein, Argentina and Chile both offer great Cabernets if you prefer a drier version with hints of green bell pepper. While you cannot go wrong with a Cab from California or South America, why not venture to a Bordeaux this winter? Most right bank Bordeauxs are Merlot-driven, as that area is cooler and more claybased, making it a better place to grow Merlot grape varieties. But the region’s left bank is stony and more suitable to growing Cabernet grapes. As always, beyond the blend is the alcohol content – the higher the alcohol content, the fuller the wine. On a chilly upcoming evening, invite a few friends over, grab several different Cabernets, and kick off winter in style.

COLD WEATHER BEERS When you picture the perfect winter beer, the obvious is a darker, more malt-based brew. It is up to individual beer makers how they categorize darker beers. Browns and porters range in ABV from 4.5% to 6.5%, while your stout options can also be on the lower ABV side, just north of 5.0%. Or you can tap into an imperial or barrel-aged stout that can creep up to 12.3% ABV, or even higher. PORTERS: Deep brown and reddish in color with a creamy head, porters boast a chocolatey flavor and are some of the heaviest beers.

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STOUTS: Dark, bitter, full and creamy, and roasty in flavor, stouts stand out because of their taste and color (think coffee, licorice, and chocolate). IMPERIAL: Imperial beers feature a higher alcohol level, stronger taste, and more intense aroma than their regular beer counterparts. BOURBON: Bourbon’s popularity has really shed light on how darker beers are made. While some purists still rely on tank, fermentation, and the less-is-more approach, many breweries have created cult beers by barrel-aging their stouts – particularly in bourbon barrels. The resulting taste is amazing, but deceptive – it can be unsettling to taste a 12.0% beer that goes down way too smoothly, and with no heat, meaning it is hard to taste the alcohol because of the balance of flavors. While it would be fun to try a variety with a group of fellow beer lovers this winter, I suggest having a burger first! Whether toasting friends by the fire, sipping on a grown-up snow day, or enjoying while snuggled up with a good book, I hope you enjoy one of these hearty wines or bold beers. No matter which you choose, they are sure to warm your insides, soothe your soul, and chase away the winter chill.  Joe O’Keefe is the founder of Wine & Beer 101, located at 1228 Heritage Links Dr., #104 in Wake Forest. Stop by anytime for a drink.

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A licensed professional will perform the inspection. Your realtor will help schedule this under-contract step; but as the buyer, it is your responsibility to pay for it. This important part of the home purchasing process usually requires a few hours for the inspector to examine the home, take pictures, and start the report on-site. This comprehensive report will note items to repair, watch, or have a professional in that specialty (HVAC, plumber, roofer, etc.) reinspect.

BY SOMMER DONAHOE

INSPECT TO AVOID THE

UNEXPECTED

The three most common inspections the buyer will have done are: home inspection, wood destroying inspection, and radon test. HouseMaster.com describes these as: – Home Inspection: The most common inspection to be ordered and scheduled once a buyer goes under contract on a resale or new construction. The roof, electric, plumbing, doors, flooring, etc., will be looked at and noted as part of the inspections. The new construction inspection will have two pre-drywall ones and a final inspection (roughly two weeks before closing). – Termite Inspection: Also referred to as a wood destroying inspection or a wood destroying organism inspection, it includes a visual examination of the readily accessible areas of the home for evidence of wood-destroying insect activity such as termite or carpenter ants, or the visible damage caused by infestations. – Radon Screening/Testing: A short-term test performed to determine the possible presence of elevated levels of radon gas pursuant to local regulations or practices for real estate transactions.

ne of the best parts of being a real estate agent is sharing the following phrase with your client – “Congratulations, you are under contract!” The searching, touring of homes, the offer, the countering, and hearing these much-anticipated words are all very significant steps toward finding your dream home. But they don’t mark the end of your home buying journey. While being in the “under contract” phase, with the guidance of your real estate agent, you will still have a few appointments for which you will need to plan, schedule, and review. After the offer to purchase contract has been executed, a home inspection should be the next order of business. Real estate agents often get asked by their homebuyers, “Why do I need a home inspection?” The best response I can share is that it helps to have a professional go over your soon-to-be new home. The purchase of a house is one of the most significant investments you will make in your lifetime. The inspector will find some issues, but not all things need to be addressed. And while an inspection is highly encouraged with an existing house, as you’d expect, it is still recommended for new construction as well. New builds, just like resales, likely need a few adjustments (leaky faucet, a clogged toilet, insulation missing, etc.) before the closing and the house being move-in ready. Generally, new home builders are great to work with regarding these issues and address what is required.

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| January • February • March 2022

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Radon is an odorless, colorless, and radioactive by-product of natural soil decay known to increase the risk of cancer in those exposed. As mentioned before, buyers can add additional inspections to their home inspection request. While searching for a new house, be aware that some properties in our area can have a septic system or a well on them, or lead-based paint could have been used in the home (if painted before 1978). A home inspector can check for these at the time of inspection, or a licensed specialist in the specific area can conduct the tests. The home inspector will then provide the report to the buyer and their real estate agent within 48-72 hours of completion. Once they have access to the report, they will review the findings and note concerns that should be requested to be repaired by the seller and those particular items that the buyer should keep an eye on in their soonto-be new home. The buyer and agent will mutually discuss the options of what should be formally requested, during the due diligence step of the purchasing process. Real estate agents have access to helpful details and knowledge, such as pamphlets provided to them by the NC Real Estate Commission and possibly the home inspector, if additional details are needed.

The Keystone Account. Because you have better things to do than worry about how much your checks cost.

When it comes to the highly recommended and encouraged home inspection step of the home buying journey, the key is to use the resulting report, not just for items that need attention, but also to learn more about what awaits you in your new home. No matter if you are buying an older, existing house, or one that has just been built, these inspections can provide documentation of the wonderful new home in which you will soon be creating wonderful new memories. 

NMLS# 402611

Wake Forest

Sommer Donahoe is a realtor with Southern Lux Living, serving buyers and sellers throughout the Triangle. She may be reached at 919426-1762 or visit southernluxliving.com.

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Youngsville

110 S. College Street (919) 750-8753

Named one of American Banker’s Top 200 Community Banks since 2007. |

January • February • March 2022

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GOOD

READS

BY SUE LUCEY

hen Mother Nature prevents you and your family from being able to venture outside this winter, turn to an adventure of a different kind – a good book. Doesn’t grabbing your coziest blanket, pouring a cup of your favorite hot cocoa (or a glass of your favorite wine), and curling up with a good book sound pretty good right about now? But what should you, your littles, and your teens read this winter?

CHILDREN Ty’s Travels: Lab Magic by Kelly Starling Lyons (for early readers) Join Ty on his imaginative adventure in this My First I Can Read book that focuses on science exploration, imagination, and play, written by Raleigh’s own Kelly Starling Lyons. Ty and his friend Corey love to visit the museum and perform science experiments. But when he can’t participate in one because he’s too young, Ty uses his imagination to make his own experiment at home.

the story of a young person’s battle to stay alive against the odds, where the high seas meet a coastal wilderness.” They continue, this coming-of-age adventure, with “hints of Nordic mythology and an irresistible narrative pull … is Gary Paulsen at his captivating, adventuresome finest.”

YOUNG ADULT Anatomy: A Love Story by Dana Schwartz Grave robbers, anatomists, and a heroine determined to become a surgeon make Anatomy: A Love Story my favorite winter read this year. Set in 19th century Edinburgh, this gothic tale follows Hazel’s quest to become a real physician in a world hellbent on crushing her dreams. Once she meets grave robber Jack, they help each other solve the mysteries of friends disappearing into thin air and

You Are Not Alone by Alphabet Rockers With a personal message of acceptance and encouragement to love ourselves, celebrate our identities, and use our voices against hate, You Are Not Alone is an empathetic and inclusive book that encourages us to have each other’s backs, no matter what. With incredibly written words by two-time Grammy nominees Alphabet Rockers and beautifully illustrated pictures by Ashley Evans, this is a musthave for young and old alike. The Library Fish by Alyssa Satin Capucilli (available March) This adorably sweet story features a fish who lives in a library … but one snowy day when no one comes by, Library Fish bravely ventures outside the safety of her bowl to search out the many library stories she hears. Northwind by Gary Paulsen (ages 8-12) A gripping tale by the author of Hatchet takes you on another exciting adventure – this time through Norway. As described by publisher Macmillan Publishers, “This stunning novel from the survival story master, set along a rugged coastline centuries ago, does for the ocean what Hatchet does for the woods, as it relates 46

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Run, Rose, Run: A Novel by James Patterson and Dolly Parton (available March) Yes, you read that right, legendary mystery writer James Patterson has teamed up with the epitome of entertainer Dolly Parton to share this fun and fast-paced thriller that is full of glitz and the trappings of country music – and murder.

survive in a society ruled by powerful men. Atmospheric, frightening, and heartfelt all at once, Anatomy: A Love Story will have you on the edge of your seat (still wrapped in that cozy blanket with a steamy cup of hot cocoa, of course).

ADULT FICTION Last House On The Street by Diane Chamberlain To read a Diane Chamberlain novel is to be on a rollercoaster of emotions and feelings. And Last House On The Street is no exception. Dealing with voting rights back from the Jim Crow era in North Carolina, her latest work will have you seeing both sides and deftly makes you sway to each. This book is for anyone who craves a literary escape with a bit of romance, mystery, and love of its characters.

ADULT NON-FICTION Cook Smart, Eat Well: Mayo Clinic Recipes And Strategies For Healthy Living by Jennifer A. Welper This title explains itself … well-written and full of insightful advice for living well, Cook Smart, Eat Well offers handy and easy recipes and tactics to live your best life. Healthy Raw Food Cookbook: Plant-Based Meals To Help You Feel Revitalized And Recharged by Susanne Roth Described by publisher Simon and Schuster, “The raw food movement is best known for its emphasis on eating tasty vegetables that greatly improve your health. Raw food cooking is embraced by vegetarians, vegans, and those on gluten-free diets every day. The secret to cooking raw foods is in not only what you eat, but also how it is prepared – with raw ingredients retaining their healthy nutrients and enzymes much better than their cooked counterparts do. Healthy Raw Food Cookbook provides instructions on how to safely cook your meals at temperatures of 104 degrees F and lower – without sacrificing money, time, or flavor!”

The Saints Of Swallow Hill by Donna Everhart The Four Winds meets Where The Crawdads Sing in this work by Donna Everhart, a NC native described on her website as an “acclaimed author of southern novels with authenticity and grit.” A slow burn of a novel, The Saints of Swallow Hill will take your breath away with its pitch perfect prose and detailed description that jump off the pages and leave you aghast. Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, Everhart’s latest work will have you throwing off your cozy blanket and jumping off the couch as you cheer on your favorite characters. Devil House: A Novel by John Darnielle Durham’s own rock star novelist is back with another curious novel. Devil House is a thrilling, bracing, and unmissable reading experience. This latest book begins straightforward enough – a true crime writer moves into a house where brutal murders took place to research his next project. With each passing chapter, the story morphs and expands, and is masterfully carried along by his incredible writing and nuanced characters. Come for the murder, but stay for the fascinating exploration of what it means to learn the truth about the past.

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The Nineties by Chuck Klosterman (available February) With wit and intelligence, Chuck Klosterman provides a fun and in-depth look into what the ’90s was all about … the decade was more than just grunge rock and Seinfeld. His keen observations will have you laughing and taking a deep look at who you were way back then.  Suzanne Lucey and her husband Dave own Page 158 Books, located at 415 S. Brooks St. in Wake Forest. She may be reached at 919435-1843 or visit www.page158books.com.

January • February • March 2022

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COOKED IN TRADITION HEARTWARMING HOT CHOCOLATE BY GRACE LOWER

Hot, hot – hey, we got it! That’s a Polar Express reference – and if you didn’t know that, then you need to grab your loved ones and a cozy blanket, and sit by the fire to watch one more post-holiday season holiday movie. Don’t forget the hot cocoa, because, spoiler alert, there’s an entire elaborate musical dance scene about hot, hot, hot, hot chocolate

that’ll make you crave a warm cup of chocolatey goodness. ot chocolate is a wonderful winter delicacy that we all know and love. It is cooked in tradition in my household, reminding me of childhood memories spent sledding and building snowmen, followed by a nice cup of cocoa to defrost my nearly-blue hands. Needless to say, hot chocolate holds numerous happy memories for me – and is also simply delicious! It just so happens that it’s almost time to celebrate National Hot Chocolate Day (January 31), and what better way to celebrate than to whip up some fun hot cocoa and cocoa-inspired dishes?

feel free to mix and match ingredients and ideas as you please. Happy hot-cocoa-ing!

TRADITIONAL HOT CHOCOLATE (makes 4-6 servings) – 3 cups milk – 1 cup heavy cream – ½ cup sugar – ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Kosher salt – 6 ounces milk chocolate, chopped – 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – Marshmallows or whipped cream, for topping In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. While whisking occasionally, cook over

But before we jump into recipes, did you know that the yummy cocoa in that mug keeping your hands warm on a cold winter day is older than modern civilization? Hot chocolate’s roots span hundreds and hundreds of years, with the earliest forms of cocoa being enjoyed by the Aztec, Mayan, and Olmec groups in what is now Mexico and Central America, according to the Institute of Culinary Education. However, this cocoa differed greatly from what we drink today – it was served cold and wasn’t sweet; rather, it was made using cacao beans and water, flowers, and spices. The cacao bean was predominantly used for medicinal and ceremonial purposes in these cultures. Later, Spanish colonizers altered the drink to cater to European tastes favoring coffee and tea, leading to the growing and harvesting of chocolate in tropical-climate European colonies. Edible chocolate gradually appeared as well, giving rise to the modern chocolate bar. To help you spruce up your hot chocolate this winter season, I’ve compiled a handful of unique hot cocoa and cocoa-inspired recipes for you to enjoy. Try any or all of these tasty treats, and 48

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medium heat until sugar and cocoa powder dissolve, and milk is steaming; do not boil. Special thanks to Food Network for this recipe.

EASY SINGLE-SERVE VEGAN HOT COCOA – 1 cup unsweetened plant milk of choice – 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder – 1½ tablespoons dairy-free semisweet chocolate (chips or bar, chopped) – Sweetener of choice (1 tablespoon raw sugar, ½ packet Stevia per mug, honey, agave nectar, etc.) – ⅛ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional) – Coconut whipped cream (optional, for topping) Microwave plant milk in large mug for 1 minute, or heat in saucepan over medium heat. Once warm, add cocoa powder, chocolate, and sweetener; whisk to combine. Continue heating until completely combined and desired temperature is reached. Stir in peppermint extract and top with coconut whipped cream if desired. Special thanks to Minimalist Baker for this recipe.

HOT-COCOA-INSPIRED DISHES

– HOT CHOCOLATE PANCAKES: Add hot cocoa powder mix or leftover hot cocoa to pancake batter for an easy upgrade to this breakfast classic. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, chocolate syrup, crushed candy canes, or whatever topping you prefer. – HOT CHOCOLATE COOKIES: Stir in hot cocoa powder mix, mini marshmallows, and chocolate chips to your cookie batter for a yummy union of two delicious desserts. – FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE: This hot take (well, cold take) on hot cocoa can be enjoyed all year long. Blend hot cocoa mix, chocolate milk, and ice to whip up some frozen hot cocoa for any season of the year. – ADULT HOT CHOCOLATE: Pour some peppermint schnapps into your hot cocoa for a delectable way to spice up and adult-ify the classic hot chocolate. – HOT CHOCOLATE POPCORN: Top popcorn with melted milk chocolate, sweet cocoa powder, marshmallows, and any other topping you wish (chocolate chips, cinnamon, etc.). – HOT CHOCOLATE NO-BAKE CHEESECAKE DIP: Mixing hot cocoa powder, cream cheese, yogurt, and marshmallow creme results in this mouth-watering dip that pairs well with graham crackers, animal crackers, or apple slices for dipping.  If you try any of these delectable dishes, let us know! Email us at info@circamagazine.com to share a photo or review of your creation – we’d love to hear from you! And as always, if you have a favorite family recipe that is “cooked in tradition,” email us a copy for a chance to be featured in a future issue of CIRCA Magazine! Grace Lower is a first-year student at UNC-Chapel Hill. She is studying Biology and Environmental Science, and also enjoys dance, theater, and writing for CIRCA Magazine.

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the pelvis – it is where the rounded end of the femur bone fits into a cup-like area formed by several bones in the pelvis, called the acetabulum. In a baby with DDH, a spectrum of different issues could be at play. Something could be wrong with the socket of the joint or the ligaments, tendons, or muscles that hold it together. For instance, the ligaments around the joint could be loose, creating too much mobility or motion. “Detecting DDH during the early stages of a baby’s life is critical for normal development,” explains Dr. Robert Llanos, a board-certified pediatric radiologist with Raleigh Radiology. “If DDH is left undetected and untreated, there is a chance that the hip will not form properly, which could result in a hip or leg that turns outward, or one leg could end up being shorter than the other. This will affect how the child walks and could result in a limp. Additionally, if one hip is not functioning normally or developing properly, this could lead to pain and early arthritis damage later in life.”

DETECTING DDH IN THE EARLY WEEKS OF LIFE There are several different ways DDH can be detected in a young infant. To begin, all babies are examined by a provider (typically their pediatrician) for DDH after birth, while they are still in the hospital. The provider looks to ensure the infant’s legs are the same length, that there are equal folds in the hips, that the hips move appropriately when rotated, and to see what happens when pres-

HEALTHY

HIPS

ALL ABOUT PEDIATRIC HIP DYSPLASIA or new parents, the health of their newborn baby is a top priority. From pregnancy to the hospital stay after delivery and then subsequent check-ups with the pediatrician, prenatal and pediatric care providers perform numerous evaluations and assessments to ensure a baby’s development is normal and on track. One area of concentration is to make sure that the infant is not at risk for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH).

WHAT IS DDH? Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a congenital, abnormal development of the hip that occurs while a baby is in utero. The hip is a ball-and-socket joint connecting the femur or thigh bone to 50

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sure is placed on the hips. If the hips feel unstable with pressure or there is too much movement, or if a dislocation can be felt, DDH could be the problem. Newborn babies are also consistently examined for DDH throughout early infancy during their regular pediatrician well-visits. The best way to clearly determine if a baby has DDH is via a hip ultrasound, performed with a pediatric radiologist in the radiology office. Babies who are sent for a hip ultrasound typically have one of these risk factors: – An abnormality was detected during the infant’s hospital exam or during a subsequent exam at the pediatrician’s office; – The infant is considered high-risk for DDH since there is a family history; i.e., a parent or sibling was diagnosed with it in the past; – The baby was found to be in the breech position during the third trimester of pregnancy.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING THE ULTRASOUND? The parent/caregiver may be encouraged to assist with holding and positioning the baby during the exam, offering a sense of comfort and familiarity for the child. For the exam, the ultrasound technician will ask the parent/caregiver to partially undress the baby down to his or her diaper. He or she will then use a special wand called a transducer, along with warm gel, to take images of the hips from different angles by rolling the baby from side to side.

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“This ultrasound exam is a painless experience,” explained Dr. Llanos. “The only feeling for the infant will be a feeling of slight pressure when we are examining and taking images of the hips.”

TREATMENT OPTIONS If an abnormality is found after the DDH ultrasound, most pediatricians will send the infant to a pediatric orthopedist for further evaluation and a treatment plan. If the findings are mild and the baby is of an early age, the issue might correct on its own. In this case, the infant will be reimaged about a month later, but no other treatments will be given at that time. However, if the results are more severe, treatment options could include: – A harness or soft brace that keeps the hips in an open position and directs the ball of the joint to the socket so that it will grow and develop properly. This is a common treatment option. – In more severe cases, which are less common, the infant might need a rigid cast placed around the pelvis and thighs, allowing for less motion and flexibility, again, so the ball of the joint is directed to the socket for proper growth and development. – In very severe cases (i.e. dislocation), which are most uncommon, the infant will require surgery or the manipulation of the joint while under anesthesia, and then the placement of a rigid cast.  To learn more about Raleigh Radiology and their pediatric imaging services, please visit raleighrad.com.

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ON THE ROAD TO

RECOVERY THANKS TO TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

BY ANTONIO BRYAN

With the arrival of the new year, many of you likely set resolutions focused on improving your health and wellness. Perhaps you’re ready to make positive lifestyle changes such as becoming more active and exercising routinely. Or maybe, knowing that nutrition is a must for good health, you now have the mindset to eat better and healthier in 2022. While exercise and nutrition are of course vital to good health, completing the wellness circle with proper recovery is equally important, and key to maintaining a

happy and healthy lifestyle. hat do I mean by recovery, you ask? Recovery from workouts, recovery from injuries, recovery from surgery, and so forth. Today, there are more options than ever to provide fast and effective recovery.

WHOLE BODY CRYOTHERAPY

One of the newest recovery methods is cryotherapy. You may have heard this term, but what is it exactly? One might say cryotherapy is the hottest new trend, but it’s quite literally ... cold. The root definition of “cryo” means involving or producing cold, especially extreme cold. Therefore “cryo” + “therapy” means using extreme cold for treatment. Using cold for injury treatment is nothing new – if you’ve ever experienced a twisted ankle, sprained knee, or bruised anything, you know that the first thing a doctor, trainer, or parent does is put ice on it. What is new today, however, is the method, application, and availability of cold treatment to the general public. Previously, some of these effective services and products were primarily saved for professional and college athletes, celebrities, etc., because of their high costs and limited access. But no longer is this the case – these services are now available to you and me. The cryotherapy machine, also known as a cryosauna, is a nitrogen cooling unit that can get down as low as -184 degrees Fahrenheit. The single-person cryogenic chamber, often described as resembling a stand-up tanning bed, is constructed with a strategic 52

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opening at the top to allow participants to breathe freely, reducing or eliminating the feeling of claustrophobia. Sessions are three minutes max and are regulated by operating staff (sessions can be stopped at any time by the client). Cryotherapy users have reported relief from back pain, arthritis, achy joints, faster post-surgery recovery, energy boosts, better sleep, and more. Other documented benefits included reduced inflammation, increased metabolism, and the promotion of weight loss (burning 500 – 800 calories). Q: How does cryotherapy compare to an ice tub bath? A: Many of you older athletes may be familiar with ice baths for muscle soreness, muscle recovery, increases in immunity, body cool down, mental health boosts, and more – but this truly doesn’t compare. If anything, the cryosauna is the new and improved technology of ice baths. It’s far more efficient without the messy water/ice and is quicker, requiring only three minutes, compared to the 20-30 minutes needed for an ice bath. Q: How often should I do cryotherapy? A: Treatment should be limited to once a day at the most. Everyone must determine the maintenance plan that best accommodates their lifestyle and circumstances. Typically, it is used one to four times per week.

LEG OR ARM COMPRESSION Fatigued legs and sore arms will significantly degrade anyone. If you’re determined to stick with your New Year’s resolution to get moving more, then treating resulting pain and discomfort is important … if you’re in pain, it’s easier to skip the next workout … and the next … and before you know it, you find yourself falling off the exercise wagon. Rapid reboot compression is here to help. Designed to help athletes of all levels (that includes you beginner athletes out there), the technology recharges and reduces the time it takes leg or arm muscles to recover from exertion. Q: What are the indications? A: Compression speeds up your body’s natural healing processes by enhancing blood flow to your muscles. Its therapeutic uses include the ability to flush away lactic acid, metabolites, and other exercise-induced waste products. Leg or arm compression also optimizes recovery from injury, treating lymphedema,

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and addressing poor circulation issues, and can help with other circulationrelated issues that stem from varicose veins, injury, surgery, etc. After treatment, you’ll notice less stiffness and less soreness, as well as increased mobility and increased flexibility. It should be noted that the recovery speed depends on various factors, such as your age, level of fitness, diet, and sleep habits. Q: How long does a rapid leg or arm compression session last? A: Sessions range in length, depending on the intensity of your training, race, etc. If you need to recover from a long, vigorous workout, for instance, you may want to use the compression sleeves or boots for 20-30 minutes. But if you’re prepping for a pre-workout or just need to grab a quick reboot, a 10-minute session may suffice.

INFRARED SAUNA Infrared light is a form of relaxing, alternative, and holistic health therapy. While traditional saunas heat the room and the outer skin to create sweat, infrared saunas focus on penetrating the body to heat its core. Benefits include muscle recovery, detoxification, improved circulation, help with weight loss, and balanced blood sugar – each of which help to strengthen your immunity and improve brain function. If equipped with chroma therapy lights, infrared saunas can also aid with anti-aging skin and rebuilding collagen. Please note that those with medical issues or questions should consult with their doctors for medical advice before trying any of these recovery treatment options.  Antonio Bryan, a serviced, connected, disabled Desert Storm veteran, is the owner of Cryo Wake Forest. Located in The Factory at 1839 S. Main St., Suite 134, in Wake Forest, Cryo Wake Forest offers services ranging from day packages, club memberships, and fundraisers to private events and military discounts. For more information, call 919435-0025 or visit CRYOWakeForest.com.

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natural resources, Appalachian culture, and tourism. In the winter, the NC mountains entertain skiers and snowboarders at numerous resorts and slopes. In the area encompassing Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and other nearby towns, you can visit Appalachian Ski Mountain (the High Country’s first ski area, beginning over 50 years ago, and now featuring 12 slopes, including two terrain parks serviced by one double chairlift, two quad lifts, two conveyor lifts, and one handle-pull lift), Beech Mountain (the highest ski area in the east at 5,506-feet peak elevation, with 17 total trails, eight total lifts, and a vertical rise of 830 feet), and Sugar Mountain (the state’s largest ski/snowboard area with 22 slopes, including a terrain park, eight total lifts, 125 skiable acres, and a 1,200 feet vertical drop) for awesome ski and snowboard slopes, cute cabins, adorable downtowns, and fun for the whole family. In Maggie Valley of the Great Smoky Mountains is the Cataloochee Ski Area, the oldest ski region in North Carolina with 18 slopes, a top elevation of 5,400 feet, and a vertical drop of 740 feet. And about 40 minutes from Asheville is the charming Wolf Ridge Ski Resort, offering 54 acres of skiable terrain, 15 runs, and a vertical drop of 700 feet. There are so many great options from which to choose – or plan a road trip to try out all of North Carolina’s sweet slopes! While skiing may be a favorite pasttime for many North Carolina snow lovers, its majestic mountains offer other winter fun. Specifically, snow tubing and sledding – some of the easiest and most

BY GRACE LOWER

DRIVEABLE

DESTINATION WINTER FUN TO OUR WEST

he mountains of North Carolina are beautiful and enjoyable any time of the year; however, winter is an especially marvelous season to take in all that the area has to offer. In the winter, the mountain region of North Carolina is adorned with brisk winds, crystal-clear views, and exciting winter activities. One such activity that draws people from all over is the opportunity to ski in the Old North State. My first experience with skiing was last winter here in North Carolina, and I can say firsthand that it’s a must-try activity. So keep reading – then grab some snow gear and head west for an unforgettable winter vacation.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

FAMILY EXPO Resources, Education & Fun for the Whole Family! SATURDAY, MARCH 26, 2022 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Wake Forest Renaissance Centre 405 S. Brooks Street Indoor Exhibit Hall with 40 exhibitor booths featuring local businesses and nonprofits, including schools, camps, extracurricular activities, and more! Outdoor Kid Zone with 10 exhibitor booths and activities for kids and families.

The Appalachian Mountains span from New York to Alabama, with the Blue Ridge range concentrating from southern Pennsylvania to Georgia. In North Carolina, the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains host numerous benefits to the state, including ecological diversity, 54

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fun of the winter sports, as they doesn’t require a lot of preparation, gear, or skill. If snow tubing or sledding are more your speed, check out one of the following, some of which can be found right by the aforementioned ski slopes. (Other tubing options in the western part of our state are available – this is just a sampling, and a quick online search will share options for what’s located near your North Carolina driveable destination.) – Hawksnest Tubing Park: One of the largest snow tubing parks on the East Coast, Hawksnest offers 100% snowmaking, over 30 lanes, and four different tubing areas, with lanes from 400 – 1000 feet long and conveyor lifts to bring you back to the top. – Tubing at Sugar Mountain: Located on the Sugar Mountain Golf Course, the 700 feet long tubing lanes are serviced by a conveyor lift. Snowmaking, lights for night tubing, and regularly groomed lanes allow for great tubing fun. – Beech Mountain Sledding Hill: Designed for kids 12 and under, this is the only municipal sledding hill in the southeast. Thus, tubing at the hill is free. Sleds are not provided, so bring your own or purchase one from the various stores nearby. – Wolf Ridge Snow Tubing Park: Located just outside the Wolf Ridge Ski Resort, the Tubing Park features one large slope that’s 60 feet wide at the top, and 100 feet wide at the bottom, with 350 feet of sliding fun in between. No designated lanes means tubers have the option to link up tubes. Snow making and a lighted hill for night tubing make for an awesome experience.

When getting ready for any trip, there are many factors to consider – lodging, food, what to pack, etc. No need to fret – when it comes to finding a place to stay, ski resorts host a number of amenities, such as location, access to slopes, and restaurants. Or, rent one of the many cute and cozy cabins that dot the western region of our state. Additionally, you can book a room at a local inn or hotel in a nearby town (depending on where you choose to ski). As for food, delicious restaurants of all kinds can be found throughout the region. My favorite eateries are those that serve home-cooked North Carolinian and Appalachian specialties. Be ready for some tasty tomato-based barbecue! You’ll also find that general stores and grocery markets are easily accessible to accommodate the needs of tourists and locals alike. When planning what to pack for your ski trip, you might think “I don’t own any skis, snowboards, or winter gear! What am I going to do?” But do not worry; rental equipment and gear can be found at numerous locally-owned stores and resorts to help visitors have as easy and seamless a vacation as possible. If you find yourself craving some cold weather fun, go ahead book your stay for a wonderfully wintery vacation, and enjoy all the skiing, snowboarding, and tubing enjoyment that North Carolina has to offer!  Grace Lower is a first-year student at UNC-Chapel Hill. She is studying Biology and Environmental Science, and also enjoys dance, theater, and writing for CIRCA Magazine.

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WINTER

GARDENING FROM COLOR TO CARE

BY JIMMY TOMPKINS

inter in North Carolina can be a wonderful and beautiful time of year. But for our gardens and landscapes, it can also be a dull and colorless time of year. The leaves have all fallen off the trees. The grass has gone dormant and is no longer a lush, vibrant green. And even the flowers are no longer blooming. But it doesn’t have to be this way – there are hardy plants that can withstand colder weather and help add color to your winter garden. And just because the temperatures have dropped, that doesn’t mean you can drop your gardening chores right now. Now is the perfect time to prep your garden so that you can enjoy healthy plants come spring.

THE BEST PLANTS FOR WINTER COLOR

Holly Bush: Add color to your garden with this resilient bush. Keep in mind that certain varieties can grow over 50 feet tall, so if you are looking for a more manageable addition to your garden, be sure to go with one of the smaller versions. Ornamental Cabbage and Kale: Not only do these unique plants provide a nice pop of color, they also offer an interesting texture. They don’t get very tall, but they do tend to spread out, so they provide plenty of coverage and are perfect in front of taller plantings.

WINTER GARDEN CHORES Remove rotting and dead plants: Rotting plants provide the perfect breeding ground for fungus and offer a nice home to pests. Be

Winter Jasmine: If you don’t have a strong green thumb, but you want color, the winter jasmine is an especially forgiving plant. Actually considered a shrub that can form broad, mounding, or vining growths, it features delicate, yellow, five-petal flowers. Best of all, it’s low maintenance and typically blooms in mid-winter, right when you’ll probably be craving color the most. Camellias: Camellias (pictured) come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. The actual plant is a small tree or shrub with glossy green leaves. The flowers can range from deep red in color to white and everything in between. Some flowers tend to look like roses, while other varieties resemble a fully bloomed peony. There are many options from which to choose that will allow you to enjoy beautiful flowers and color during the winter months. Japanese Maples: These trees are often found in decorative gardens because they offer beautiful trunks that look like artistic carvings and richly covered leaves. While they can grow up to 30 feet, they also tend to spread out horizontally for a truly unique look that can serve as a focal point in any winter garden. Red and Yellow-Stemmed Dogwood: Even when the leaves of the red and yellow-stemmed dogwood have fallen off, its colorful branches continue to add to any landscape. The bright red and yellow hues provide the perfect winter compliment to the evergreens. 56

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sure to clean up dead plants and bury them in the soil where they can pass nutrients back to the earth.

sure that you start spring with an empty bin ready to create more compost. Empty outdoor containers: If your garden contains potted plants, empty them and make sure they are stored upside down, if you haven’t already done so. This will help prevent cracking and keep them from collecting dirt, water, and debris until they are ready to be filled again come spring.

Get rid of invasive weeds: If you spent last summer cutting back weeds, now is the time to literally get to the root of the problem and dig them up. This will help eliminate the problem and result in less maintenance once spring arrives. Prepare your soil: Don’t wait until spring to start preparing your soil. Add nutrients like manure, bone meal, compost, and other additives during the winter months to give these supplements plenty of time to go to work so that you start the spring with fertile soil.

Add mulch: The great thing about perennials is that they are low maintenance. However, you can give them a helping hand by covering the bulbs in a layer of mulch. This is a simple way to protect them and create an even temperature during winter.  Jimmy Tompkins is the owner of JT’s Landscaping and Lawncare. If you are in need of pruning or any other landscaping and lawncare service, contact the experts at JT’s. They have decades of experience serving homeowners throughout Raleigh and the Triangle area. Jimmy may be reached at 919-453-2716, or visit jts-landscaping.com for more information.

Empty your compost: Now that the weather has gotten colder, the microbes that work to breakdown organic matter and create rich compost have gone dormant. Instead of leaving leftover compost sitting in the bin, use it to top off garden beds and make

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Storing of the apple and cultivation of it was not that difficult – thus, it became not only a food crop, but also a massive export. Travelers along the silk road made huge fortunes by selling not only the fruit, but also their seeds. It wasn’t long before many varieties sprung up. Currently, there are over 7,500 varieties of apples around the world, with 2,500 grown in 35 U.S. states. Many of the apples we grow here in America hold in proper conditions for a year or more. This makes them the perfect candidate for delicious winter baking. Being around for so long, it’s understandable that there are so many recipes for the world’s #1 fruit. John Chapman, a traveling preacher and conservationist – better known as Johnny Appleseed – is credited for raising not only apple awareness, but also for spreading them all over the country (despite having only hitting the northern section of the country, specifically Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and parts of West Virginia). Johnny didn’t walk around dropping seeds everywhere, but rather built nurseries so the apple trees could grow and flourish. He returned to his nurseries year after year, checking on the trees and instructing the growers on better ways to trim them, harvest their fruits, and store them properly.

BY BUCK BUCHANAN

WINTERY

APPLE

DELIGHTS With winter here, it is hard to get into the baking mood. Many of the fresh ingredients we like to bake with are out of season – peaches, blackberries, and blueberries just to name a few. But on a chilly winter’s day, we often find ourselves craving some sweet comfort food to warm our bellies, and our souls. Who wants to wait until spring when fruits are more in season to satisfy the sweet tooth that we all have?

hroughout history, people have struggled with this issue … but the people of Kazakhstan discovered a way to overcome it. About 10,000 years ago, they domesticated one of the best baking gems – the apple.

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Just as the history of the apple is worldwide, the history of using it in baking and cooking extends to the four corners of the earth as well. Almost all people include apples in their cooking. The Europeans in particular use them a lot … and I mean a lot! For instance, Russia’s Sharlotka is a light apple cake; Germany boasts the apple dessert Apfeltasche; Prekmurska Gibanica comes from Slovenia; and Luxemburg tags in with a beautiful custard and apple dish. But when it comes to simple apple dishes that strike down to the core of a country and the history therein, look no further than right here in America. You can never go wrong with the simple baked apple pie – all you need is an oven and an apple to create this delicious dessert. But there are so many truly American apple desserts to enjoy on a cold winter’s day. Today, I am going to focus our time on two of my favorites – the Apple Brown Betty and the Apple Roly Poly. While either will surely satisfy your sweet tooth this season as a standalone treat, both are even better when accompanied by a delicious scoop of vanilla ice cream. Sure, it may be cold outside, but a bite of this perfectly sweet combination is sure to warm your soul.

APPLE BROWN BETTY The Apple Brown Betty first appeared in print in 1864, but dates back to colonial times. This sweet offers a simple way to stretch out your apple supply – and also get rid of that stale bread in your pantry. – 3 whole apples – 7 slices of bread – ¾ cup butter – 1½ cup brown sugar (and any other spices you want to add) – ¼ cup water

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Peel and core the apples, then cut into ½ inch cubes. Slice bread into small pieces. Coat a 9 x 9 baking dish with butter. Toss apples, bread, brown sugar, and spices (if desired) together and pour into a buttered baking dish. Cut butter into small pieces and place on top of the mixture; sprinkle water all over. Bake at 350 degrees until the apples are tender (about 40 minutes).

APPLE ROLY POLY With many regions staking claim on this dessert, this version is an American take on the British Jam Roly Poly. (I don’t want to take sides on this, but for the sake of this article, I will call it a Pennsylvania staple, where I enjoyed it as a child). – 13/4 cups all-purpose flour – 1/4 cup sugar – 4 teaspoons baking powder – 1/2 teaspoon salt – 1/4 cup shortening – 1/4 cup cold butter – 2/3 cup sour cream – 6 apples – 1 cup brown sugar – 1 teaspoon cinnamon Topping: – 2½ cups water – 2 tablespoons brown sugar – 1 teaspoon cinnamon – ½ cup heavy cream Peel, core, and slice apples, then mix with brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside. Combine and mix dry ingredients. Cut in butter and shortening until crumbly. Roll out into a 15 x 10 rectangular floured surface, cover with apple mixture, and roll. Slice ¼ inch thick and place into baking dish. Combine water, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small saucepan, bringing to a boil, then quickly add heavy cream while stirring. Pour this hot topping onto the “dumplings.” Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes or until bubbly. Let them rest, but serve warm.  Buck Buchanan is the owner of Lumpy’s Ice Cream, located at 306 Wait Avenue in Downtown Wake Forest. Follow them on social media and visit lumpysicecream.com.

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ALL ABOUT

VENEERS

ave you ever wondered why it seems like almost every celebrity has perfect teeth? From the big screen stars to social media influencers, it’s easy to see straight, white, even smiles everywhere. But in the real world, those smiles rarely ever happen without the help of dental correctors and cosmetic dentistry. Many of us wish our less-than-perfect teeth would look like those of people who have had work done on theirs. Thanks to scientific magic in the field of dentistry, including braces, whitening treatments, and veneers, you don’t have to wish for beautiful teeth ... the smile of your dreams is easily in reach.

WHAT’S A VENEER, ANYWAY? Invented back in 1928, veneers are a shell covering designed to conceal flaws in an individual tooth. They were first created as a way to hide imperfections in those Hollywood smiles, so they only had to last an hour or two. Over the next decades, they evolved to move from “temporary” to “permanent,” staying on the enamel for years, rather than hours. They may be tiny, but veneers pack a mighty punch. The shells are so versatile, they cover things like: – Cracks and chips in your teeth; – Stained teeth that won’t lighten with treatments; – Spaces and gaps between teeth; – Damage caused by bruxism (a condition in which you grind, gnash, or clench your teeth); – Teeth that are slightly crooked but not suitable for braces.

ALL ABOUT VENEERS Whatever the reason you’re unhappy with your smile, your dentist may recommend veneers – a culmination of years of technological advances. They’ve gone from a basic shell that lasted the length of a movie scene to a part of a person’s teeth that seems like it was always there. How can something so small and thin do so much, you ask? Well, the trick is in the material used to make a veneer and the way it is bonded to the tooth. 60

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BY DR. EDMOND SUH

Over the years, we’ve learned that the two best, most natural materials are composite resin and porcelain. You’ll get to pick between these two choices for your shell. Both look and feel like your regular teeth. They can be sculpted, shaped, and colored to match the rest of your smile. When your veneer is placed, the “flaws” you were unhappy with disappear instantly, transforming your mouth. Choosing between composite resin and porcelain depends on what you’re hoping to get from the dental correctors. Not only will the final result of either type of veneer look almost identical, but the process to get them applied is pretty similar, too. But one particular difference is a standard versus a customized version. Regardless of which you choose, at your appointment, you’ll have a mold impression made of your teeth that the dentist will use to design your veneer. Standard veneers are always composite resin because they’re cheaper and easier to keep on hand in the office. The best part about this option is that your veneer can be placed as soon as the first visit. This is an excellent choice if you’ve accidentally cracked a front tooth or have a problem that needs to be covered up quickly. It’s also perfect for people on a budget. Customized veneers take a little longer before they’re ready. However, the benefit is that your veneer will match the rest of your teeth so well that you’ll forget it’s even there.

WHAT’S THE LIFESPAN? How long do veneers last? Are they permanent? These and many other questions about this dental treatment are frequently asked. The answer varies, based on the kind you choose to get. For instance, temporary veneers, like the style from decades ago, can last up to a week. “Permanent” veneers, on the other hand, have a much longer lifespan, often lasting over 20 years with proper maintenance and care. If the most important thing to you is having a veneer you never have to worry about, then porcelain is the best option, as the material is as close to a natural tooth as possible. It’s as hard and as durable – possible even more so – as human enamel. While it can last for over 20 years, composite resin veneers are likely to last five to 10 years. Although porcelain veneers are pricier, many consider them to be worth the money since they last longer, and once they’re applied, you can forget they’re there.

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WHAT ABOUT STAINING?

eat. Sticky and hard foods can crack or loosen the shell. Should this happen, though, repairing veneers is a basic procedure. If you notice yours is coming loose or damaged, call your dentist as soon as possible. The earlier the problem is caught, the easier it is to fix!

Porcelain is also similar in color to natural teeth and is resistant to staining. Therefore, a porcelain shell is recommended for those who have high-impact jobs or hobbies. Those who consume a lot of coffee, tea, or dark soda should consider porcelain, too. It’s important to know, though, that the material can in fact stain, but it’s much harder to discolor porcelain than teeth enamel or composite resin veneers.

If you’re ready to take the teeth correction plunge, no matter if you choose customized porcelain veneers or go the standard composite resin route, both options are an investment that can last for years. As long as you take care of your teeth with good dental hygiene habits, your veneers should last their full lifespan, allowing you to proudly show off your pearly whites. 

IS COMPOSITE RESIN A GOOD OPTION? Although porcelain veneers may last longer, composite resin veneers are certainly a popular and effective aesthetic option. Perhaps you’re on a tight budget or are in a hurry to cover a crack or chip – if so, this is a good way to go. Not having customized porcelain shells is fine since even the standard veneers look natural.

Dr. Edmond Suh, DDS is with Supremia Dentistry, located at 1704 S. Main Street in Wake Forest. He is an international lecturer on contemporary dental techniques. At Supremia Dentistry, expect something different as they welcome you to their patient family. Call 919-556-6200 to learn more or schedule an appointment. You can also visit supremiadentistry.com.

With composite resin veneers, though, you have to be more cautious about what you

CIRCA Magazine

ecorating for Christmas – a time-honored tradition full of joy and cheer … and if you’re the “lucky” one in your house who gets to tackle the tradition of setting up the outdoor holiday lights, it’s probably also full of frustration. This time-consuming, often exasperating task ultimately adds magical charm to your home’s exterior. But before you climb the ladder, I suggest you heed the following helpful light-hanging hints, understand the dangers of taking them down, and weigh

January • February • March 2022

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daily activities are impaired, a person’s quality of life can suffer.

CAUSES AND TYPES OF LOW VISION Eye and brain injuries, as well as certain genetic conditions, can cause sudden reduced vision. This is especially true in younger individuals. Reduced vision in older people tends to develop gradually with chronic, progressive diseases. Many times, there are no alerting symptoms until you have lost significant vision, which is why doctors encourage annual comprehensive eye exams.

AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION BY KIMBERLY DOUGLAS, OD, FAAO

LIVING WITH LOW VISION Millions of Americans experience low vision as a result of common ocular diseases. It is also common to hear people use the term “legally blind” without an understanding of what it truly means. Understanding the causes of low vision, and knowing what it means to be legally blind, allows the individuals affected and the people around them to make adjustments to minimize the impact of these visual impair-

ments on their everyday lives. ccording to the World Health Organization (WHO), low vision is defined as a visual acuity of 20/60 to 20/200, and less than 20 degrees of peripheral vision in the best seeing eye with the best possible correction. Those who are unable to achieve better than 20/200 vision or 10 degrees of peripheral vision with the best glasses, contact lenses, or other traditional methods are considered to be legally blind. Individuals who have poor vision without glasses or contact lenses but see well with them, are not actually legally blind. Adults over 50 are most commonly affected by reduced vision, as they are more prone to advanced ocular diseases. These diseases include macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetes, and sometimes cataracts. As these conditions progress later in life, they start to affect one’s ability to read, drive, use the computer, see the television, and even recognize familiar faces. Once these 62

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Central vision loss can be caused by advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The macula is the light-sensitive area of the retina that is responsible for seeing the details of objects directly in front of you. AMD is a leading cause of low vision and affects the ability to read, write, and see people’s faces. There are two types of AMD with varying levels that progress slowly over time. Dry AMD tends to be less visually significant, as most people do not notice much vision loss until later in this stage. While eye vitamins are recommended to slow progression of AMD, there is no cure at this time. As the disease advances, many will start to notice straight lines becoming wavy or central visual distortion. This is much more common in wet AMD, where there is a more significant impact to vision. In this type, patients notice more central vision missing, trouble with low lighting, and a dampening of colors. There are ocular injections to help treat this stage of the condition, but once vision is permanently lost, it cannot be restored. AMD is more common in people over the age of 50, those who have a family history, Caucasians, and smokers (including former smokers). To reduce the risk of AMD, patients are encouraged to adopt a healthy lifestyle with the cessation of smoking, increasing green leafy vegetable intake, regular exercise, and the use of UV protection when outdoors.

GLAUCOMA There are a variety of types of glaucoma – all of which can lead to peripheral vision loss if not managed and treated in time. Openangle glaucoma is the most common type in the United States and is a very slowly progressing condition that causes damage to the optic nerve. Glaucoma also typically presents with no symptoms until the disease becomes advanced. African-Americans and Hispanics have an increased risk of glaucoma. Its true cause is unclear. There is often an association with elevated intraocular pressure, but this is not always the case. The treatment usually consists of drops to lower eye pressure,

| January • February • March 2022

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laser treatments, and surgical procedures to help drain fluid out of the eye more efficiently. Since glaucoma can lead to blindness, early detection is key.

offer visual aids such as magnified devices in addition to glasses or contact lenses. To make daily tasks easier for those with milder vision loss, I recommend: – Better illumination/ lighting that can be angled directly on the page; – Hand-held or stand magnifiers; – High magnified reading glasses; – Filtered glasses to reduce glare.

DIABETES Another condition that does not have any symptoms in the early stages is diabetic retinopathy. Everyone who has difficulty controlling blood glucose is at risk for this disease. The blood vessels in the retina (the light-sensitive part of the eye) begin to leak, which can be damaging to those sensitive layers in the back of the eye. More than half of individuals with diabetes will develop this condition. The longer you have had the disease, the higher your risk.

For more advanced vision loss, it may require additional options including: large print texts/books or audio books; changing

text size/contrast on smart phones and computers; telescopes; electronic readers; and an occupational therapist to offer guidance on how to set up your home safely.  Kimberly M. Douglas, OD, FAAO, is with McPherson Family Eye Care, offering low vision examinations to evaluate the extent of vision loss and to offer options to maximize your remaining sight. Schedule an appointment if you or someone you know could benefit from their services. Adapting to low vision can be frustrating, but there are so many resources available to help guide you through this challenge. For more information, visit mcphersonfamilyeyecare.com.

There is treatment for advanced stages to stabilize the condition. Sometimes eye injections, laser treatment, and eye surgery are needed. Unfortunately, once the retina has been damaged and vision is lost, it often cannot be regained. To reduce your chances of diabetic retinopathy, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle with diet and regular exercise.

ADAPTING AND ACCEPTING LOW VISION Vision loss and blindness can be very distressing, especially when one is used to having fairly good vision. Partial vision loss is often harder to adapt to than total loss. In addition to the visual changes, people also have to cope with a loss of independence. It is normal to experience an initial period of denial, followed by depression, and finally acceptance. This happens at different times and at different extents of severity for everyone. No one should have to deal with this alone. In addition to seeing a low vision specialist, patients also need to consider counseling and support groups. Having reduced vision means that you have to find new ways to enjoy doing the things you love. Low vision specialists are available to help maximize one’s remaining sight. While they cannot reverse the damage that has already been done, they can

CIRCA Magazine

January • February • March 2022

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I’m talking about litter. Yes, litter – that stuff that we see in parking lots, along roadsides, and too often even in our own neighborhoods. If you’re like me, you might be thinking, “But I don’t litter, so why is this such a problem?” And thankfully, most of us don’t. The good news is that since 2009, littering has decreased by over 50%. But even with all that progress, Americans still left 50 billion pieces of litter on the ground last year. Here are a few statistics to think about: – 90% of Americans agree that litter is a problem in their state; – Of the 50 billion pieces of litter, 24 billion are along roadways and 26 billion are along waterways; – An estimated 207 million PPE items were littered on U.S. roadways and waterways through early fall 2020; – There are more than 2,000 pieces of litter per mile.

2022

BY NICK PIONE

THE YEAR WE TAKE OUT THE TRASH 2022 is here and it’s time for a new set of New Year’s Resolutions. You know, the things we pledge to do differently this year, even though you may not have completed last year’s. No judgment here, as many of us never complete them – and most give up on them after only a couple of months.

ut what if there was one resolution that we could all do together – one thing could make our lives, our community, and our planet better? What if that one thing didn’t result in you spending hours at the gym or trying a new diet plan? What if it only took one minute per day, every other day? What could this resolution possibly be?

CIRCA Magazine

If we can agree that there’s a problem, then we can all be part of the solution. So what can we do to fix this national problem? Before I answer, let’s first talk about from where all this litter comes. Most is the result of carelessness. It blows out of over-stuffed garbage cans or from the back of a truck or boat. And yes, some still comes from people intentionally throwing it on the ground or out the windows of their cars. Crazy, I know; but unfortunately, it’s true. If littering were to stop today and waste was properly managed, and every American picked up 152 pieces of litter this year, we would have a litter-free nation in 2022. So let’s all make this a New Year’s resolution, and commit to a few simple things: – If we all pick up just one piece of litter a few times every week, it will all be eliminated. That’s the one minute, every other day. – Don’t overstuff your garbage can on trash night. – If you own a pickup truck or boat, don’t allow anyone to put trash in the back to blow away. There’s one more thing – and this is when we need to help the “litter bugs” among us see the light. Call those litter bugs out – respectfully of course. When you see someone discarding trash on the ground, kindly ask them to pick it up. If they refuse, no need to argue – you just found your one piece of trash to pick up for the day. In addition to being unsightly, litter and plastics are contaminating our soil, oceans, and harming our planet. We are all affected by this problem and we can all be part of the solution. 2022 can be the year we take out the trash and feel good about finally completing a New Year’s Resolution – one that won’t only benefit ourselves, but our world as well.  Nick Pione is a local business owner, blog writer, and natural wellness expert. He co-founded Trek CBD and contributes to medium.com and trekcbd.com. For more information, please contact Nick at nickpione@trekvitality.com.

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OUR HERITAGE BAPTIST HOLLOW – THE CRADLE OF COLLEGE SPORTS BYBY EDAMY MORRIS PIERCE

f you lived in Wake Forest – aka Baptist Hollow – in the first half of the 20th century, you lived in the cradle of college sports in North Carolina. You may have had a favorite school, and chances were very good that it was Wake Forest College. College sports in North Carolina began with Wake Forest College. In 1888, Wake Forest and The University of North Carolina met in the very first collegiate football game in our state. In 1891, Wake Forest and what is now NC State University played the very first college baseball game. And in 1906, Wake Forest and Trinity College, now Duke University, met for the first college basketball game. By the way, Wake Forest College was the winner of all three of those early contests. It was football that captured the crowds and attention, and it is football that will be the focus of this article.

1944 was the school’s top season, with eight wins and only one loss to rival Duke. In January of 1945, Wake Forest was invited to play in the very first Gator Bowl game in Jacksonville, Florida. The Deacons won that game 26 – 14, defeating South Carolina. The Peahead Walker years would brag of two All-Americans – Bill George in 1949 and the following year, Jim Staton. Bob Bartholomew in 1955 and Bill Barnes in 1956 rounded out the All-Americans while the College was in our town. Not long after relocating, the most famous of Wake Forest’s football standouts, Brian Piccolo, was named All-American in 1964. Piccolo went on to play professional football and is now best known for the movie about his life and career, Brian’s Song. Over the decades, Wake Forest has proudly boasted an impressive lineup of All-Americans.

From the 1920s to the 1970s, the “Big Four” – Wake Forest, NC State, Carolina, and Duke – dominated college sports in the Tar Heel State. A victory over any one of those rivals was as good as any winning season. In 1921, the Wake Forest “Baptists,” as the teams had been known since the early 1900s, were transformed to the “Demon Deacons” after a 46 - 3 routing of Trinity (Duke). Trinity had been ranked number one nationally and was undefeated for three seasons. The headline in the next morning’s newspaper boasted that “The Baptists Played Like Demon Deacons,” and thus, a new and enduring mascot was born. In 1936, Wake Forest College joined the Southern Conference, and the following year, the legendary Douglas Clyde “Peahead” Walker was hired as head coach. Peahead, as he was known by everyone, was the winningest coach in school history. Walker coached Wake Forest football until 1951. With winning records in nine of those seasons, he likely would have stayed at Wake Forest for many more victorious seasons, except for a dispute with the College’s president over a $500 a year pay raise. While Walker was coach, there were so many folks wanting to see Wake Forest on the gridiron on a Saturday afternoon that the college built a new stadium. When Groves Stadium opened in 1939, it was the largest football stadium in the entire state. Named for Wake Forest College alum and textile executive Henry Groves, the facility seated 20,000 fans. Today, that stadium, now totally renovated, is Wake Forest High School’s Trentini Stadium.

In 1953, Wake Forest College became a founding member of the Atlantic Coast Conference. In only three short years, the college would move from its home of 122 years to a new home in WinstonSalem. Sports continued to play an important role in college life in WinstonSalem, but the excitement of Saturday games in our town waned. Fans began to search for other local schools for their sports loyalties. Local media outlets rarely reported on the results of Wake Forest University games, unless they played one of the three remaining Triangle areas universities from the former “Big Four.” Not so much this past football season … Wake Forest University now has a new “winningest” coach in Dave Clawson. Former local fans seem to have been resurrected from football obscurity. With 10 wins and only two losses in the regular season, there is now a new “best season ever” for Wake Forest University. And the now much-expanded Atlantic Coast Conference has a new Atlantic Division champion. And while Wake Forest wasn’t able to capture the ACC Championship win in December in Charlotte, losing to ACC newcomer Pitt, there’s no doubt that their exciting 2021 football season was one for the record books. 

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Ed Morris is executive director of the Wake Forest Historical Museum and Wake Forest College Birthplace, located at 414 N. Main Street. For more information, visit wakeforestmuseum.org.

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January - February - March 2022 CIRCA Magazine

Articles inside

Living With Low Vision

2022 – The Year We Take

All About Veneers

Our Heritage

Winter Gardening From Color To Care

Wintery Apple Delights

On The Road To Recovery

Driveable Destination

Beyond Beige Breaking Free From Design Boundaries

Cooked In Tradition Heartwarming Hot Chocolate

Good Reads

Healthy Hips All About Pediatric Hip Dysplasia

Inspect To Avoid The Unexpected

A Toast To Winter

Quick And Easy Winter Dishes

Yoga – An At-Home Tool

Moving? Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Your

The Perfect Meal For A

Crafty Ways To Chase The Winter Blues Away

Seasonal Selling

Let’s Get Moving

New Year, New Habits Good Practices For A

Pre-Sale Prep And Staging

Financial Focus

Hidden Gems