A M AGA Z I N E O F F O R SY T H C O U N T Y P U B L I C L I B R A RY
INTERSECTIONS
C O N N E CT I N G P E O P L E & P U R P O S E T H R O U G H L I B R A RY S E R V I C E
4
SPRING INTO OUR NEW
StoryWalk
6
SUMMER REIGN: SUMMER READING PROGRAMS THROUGH THE YEARS
10 Q&A WITH ARTS COUNCIL PRESIDENT CHASE LAW
12
SWEET SUCCESS: ENTREPRENEURS ADD FLAVOR TO LOCAL FOOD SCENE
SUMMER 2022
SUMMER SERIES
UPCOMING PROGRAMS
Tiny Art Show June 1-July 31, Reynolda Manor Branch Create your own tiny masterpiece with a tiny art kit. Pick up kits between June 1-25, while supplies last. Any family-friendly theme or subject can be explored. Your completed art will be on display during the month of July, so return your art by June 30. Open to all ages. For questions call 336-703-2960.
Short Story Society Beginning June 2 at 4 p.m., Southside Branch The Short Story Society is dedicated to reading and discussing new and classic short stories. We meet on the first Thursday of each month at 4 p.m. All readers aged 15+ are welcome. Please call 703-2985 for more details or to reserve a copy of the current story.
Walkertown Gardening Series June 27: Container Gardens July 20: Beginner-Friendly Vegetable Gardening Aug. 1: Bee and Butterfly Gardens Aug. 22: Apartment-friendly Gardening The Walkertown Library and the N.C. Cooperative Extension will present a series of gardening tutorials. All programs begin at noon. WFU Lam Museum of Anthropology: Kachina Dolls July 18 at 10:30 a.m., Carver School Road Branch July 20 at 2:30 p.m., Clemmons Branch Aug. 5 at 11 a.m., Lewisville Branch Aug. 9 at 3:30 p.m., Rural Hall Branch Aug. 10 at 2:30 p.m., Clemmons Branch Aug. 11 at 11:00 a.m., Central Library Tina Smith, from the Lam Museum of Anthropology will discuss the Hopi people of the Southwest and their kachina dolls. Ages 5-12.
Big Bang Boom June 13 at 11 a.m., Central
Locations and Hours Limited Browsing and Borrowing Monday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. To-Go Service Hours Monday-Thursday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Branches Carver School Road Branch 4915 Lansing Dr. Winston-Salem, N.C. 27105 336-703-2910 Central Library 660 W. Fifth St. Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101 336-703-2665 Clemmons Branch 6365 James Street Clemmons, N.C. 27012 336-703-2920 Paddison Memorial Branch in Kernersville 248 Harmon Lane Kernersville, N.C. 27284 336-703-2930 Lewisville Branch 6490 Shallowford Rd. Lewisville, N.C. 27023 Phone: 336-703-2940
13
Intermediate Genealogy
Professor Whizzpop’s Commotion in the Ocean
22
Practice your Putt with a Pro
Rural Hall Branch 7125 Broad St. Rural Hall, N.C. 27045 336-703-2970 Southside Branch 3185 Buchanan St. Winston-Salem, N.C. 27127 336-703-2980 Walkertown Branch 2969 Main St. Walkertown, N.C. 27051 336-703-2990
Ken Carlson Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club 2100 Reynolds Park Rd. Winston-Salem, N.C. 27107 336-788-6563 YWCA Best Choice Center 1031 E. 11th St. Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101 336-722-0597
JUNE June 13 at 11 a.m., Computer Learning Center at Central Library Dive deeper into genealogical records research methods. To register, email: maygm@forsyth.cc or call 336-703-3075. June 22 at 2 p.m., Reynolda Manor Branch Join Daniel Byrd, PGA teaching professional from Tanglewood Park, for an indoor session on putting. To register, email falkowsz@forsyth.cc or call 336-703-2960.
23
ecoEXPLORE:Herpetology June 23 at 11 a.m., Lewisville Branch The Greensboro Science Center’s ecoEXPLORERs talk about the importance of studying and caring for amphibians and reptiles. For grades K-8.
Wake Forest University Lam Museum of Anthropology: Being Royal June 14 at 3:30 p.m., Rural Hall Branch June 15 at 10 a.m., Southside Branch July 14 at 11 a.m., Central Library Aug. 3 at 2:30 p.m., Clemmons Branch Using objects from the museum’s collections, children will learn about the traditions of the Yoruba of West Africa and create their own crown.
Reynolda Manor Branch 2839 Fairlawn Dr. Winston-Salem, N.C. 27106 336-703-2960
Youth Mini-Libraries
June 14 at 3 p.m. , Walkertown June 20 at 10:30 a.m, Lewisville. June 27 at 10 a.m., Malloy Jordan East Winston Heritage Center June 30 at 10:30 a.m., Clemmons July 7 at 4 p.m., Rural Hall July 8 at 11 a.m., Reynolda Manor July 8 at 2 p.m., Southside August 15 at 10:30 a.m., Carver August 16 at 4 p.m., Paddison Memorial The always-entertaining pop band Big Bang Boom shares parent-friendly educational children’s music. June 14 at 10:30 a.m, Clemmons Branch June 14 at 2:30 p.m., Reynolda Manor June 20 at 2:30 p.m., Southside Branch June 27 at 10:30 a.m., Lewisville Have a whale of a summer with Professor Whizzpop. Meet the world’s only acrobatic goldfish and avoid becoming a shark snack. For children ages 5-11.
Malloy/Jordan East Winston Heritage Center 1110 E. Seventh St. Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101 336-703-2950
23
North Carolina Zoo: Amazing Adaptations June 23 at 2 p.m., Southside Branch “Can you smell your food from miles away?” Learn why biodiversity is crucial for a healthy planet, and how animals use adaptations to survive. To register, call 336-703-2980. Sponsored by the Friends of the Southside Library.
Continues on inside back cover.
INTER SECTIONS
SUMMER 2022
C O N N E CT I N G P E O P L E & P U R P O S E T H R O U G H L I B R A RY S E R V I C E
CONTENTS
6
10
4
12
FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS
4
Spring Into StoryWalk Read and Walk at Triad Park
2
From the Director Brian Hart discusses summer at the library
6
Summer Reign Summer reading programs through the years
3
What’s Current Changing times, changing libraries
17
Library Re-Imagined Three staff members talk about what they love about their specialized library work
18
People & Purpose The lifelong joys of reading
20
From the Bookshelf Arts, innovation and reading picks
10
12
Q&A with Arts Council President Chase Law Partnership Leads to Artist-inResidence Program Sweet Success Three local food businesses add flavor to the local food scene
Intersections is printed three times a year. Please direct comments or suggestions to Mary Giunca, public information officer, at 336-703-3019, or giuncams@forsyth.cc. DESIGN: Amanda King | PHOTOGRAPHY: Library Staff, Amanda King | Writers: Todd Bowser, Sue deGuzman, Karen Feeney, Stefanie Kellum,Lara Luck, Alane Pepper, Jamie Stroble On the cover: The library’s new StoryWalk at Triad Park.
FROM THE DIRECTOR
Spring Forward, Here’s to Summer 2022
“During the months of June, July and August, we’ll have a variety of programs for children, teens and adults that we hope will inspire you.”
AT THE FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY, our mission is to equip, empower and connect the community. For me, that spirit is captured in the 2022 theme for our Summer Reading program, “A Breath of Fresh A.I.R.” The acronym stands for Arts, Innovation and Reading. We chose this theme because it highlights Forsyth County’s, and our library’s, strengths. During the months of June, July and August, we’ll have a variety of programs for children, teens and adults that we hope will inspire you. Create an art masterpiece. Learn how to fly fish. Operate a robot. Make and fly your own kite. Craft a kachina doll. Or munch a slice of melon. Or course, you can also read. If you’re looking for some ideas, check out our book picks on page 20. To learn about the fascinating evolution of library summer reading programs, which go back to the 1920s, check out “Summer Reign,” the story on page 6. Entrepreneurship is on a lot of people’s minds these days. We’ve found a delicious way to embrace that trend with a look at three local food businesses on page 12. We hope this will be the summer where we can all rediscover the joys of being together again. The Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County has been an important force in our community for bringing people together since it became the first Arts Council in the country in 1949. Learn more about this organization, and an exciting new partnership with FCPL on page 10. You are always in our thoughts, as we work to make this the best summer we’ve all had in several years. We hope to see you in our libraries or at one of our events this summer. I | S Best wishes for a safe and stimulating summer, BRIAN HART, director
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WHAT’S CURRENT
UPCOMING PROGRAMS Advanced Care Planning Workshop June 1 at 1 p.m., Southside Branch Don Timmons from Trellis Supportive Care will discuss how to create a living will and establish healthcare power of attorney. Call 336-703-2985 to register or for more information.
READ (Reading for Empathy, Advocacy, and Discourse) Book Club June 7 at 5:30 p.m., Walkertown Branch The goal of the R.E.A.D. Book Club is to create space for community members to broaden their perspectives on social issues through reading and discussion with others. Visit forsyth.cc/library/Walkertown to see what book we’re reading this month.
Behind the Stacks ALL THE FORMATS IT USED TO BE THAT LIBRARIES just had books. Over time, offerings evolved as technology and people’s needs evolved. We got cassette audiobooks, then CDs. We still have the CDs (and yes, people still check them out) but we also have downloadable and streaming audiobooks, as well as ebooks that offer a wide range of accessibility options. You can change the text size, font, background and lighting, as well as create notes and highlights and define words. On audio, you can speed up or slow down the narration. If you need some in-depth, current information and have mobility problems, we have dozens of databases available for free on our website — no need to be physically present in the library. As our population ages, having options that expand accessibility is more important than ever. My boss’s father was a physician with dyslexia. That in itself must have been pretty challenging. Then think about adding recreational reading to his to-do list ... it just wasn’t happening for him. But then his daughter introduced him to cassette audiobooks that she checked out while working at the library. It was the 1990s, and they took a father/daughter cross country road trip. While my boss doesn’t remember what books they listened to (except for the one he didn’t like — Harry Potter), he fell in love with audiobooks and continued to be an avid book listener for the rest of his life.
We have large print books, too, that make reading easier for folks with vision impairments. One library patron, Lisa, emailed us to ask this question: "Will there be more large print books available now that the boomers are having eyesight issues?" It’s true that as the population ages, there comes a greater need for alternative formats for books. However, it has not led to an increase in large print circulation. In fact, we have seen it decrease because many people are choosing to listen to digital audiobooks or read ebooks, where they can change the size of the texts. We do understand that not everyone wants to read on a screen, so we will continue to offer large print as a format. Folks may not know about our adult outreach services — we can actually bring library materials to your door, and you can keep them for longer than the usual three-week checkout period, so you can stock up without worrying about due dates. Of course, we still have plenty of stuff to do, both in the library and out in the community. Don’t think we’ve gone 100% digital — we have in-person events for all ages and interests, in addition to meeting rooms, and of course, books. You might even catch our W.O.W. (Web on Wheels) bus out at a community event. I | S — JAMIE STROBLE, audiovisual librarian
How Old is Beer? A History of Hops June 25 at 2 p.m., Paddison Memorial Branch Tina Smith, educator for the Lam Museum of Anthropology, will talk about the history and traditions associated with beer worldwide. Then after the program, feel free to join us at Gypsy Road Brewing for our Books & Brews book club. To register, email GoldstLB@forsyth.cc or call 336-703-2932.
Black Music Month Panel Displays June 28 at 5:30 p.m., Malloy/Jordan East Winston Heritage Center In celebration of Black Music Month, view panel exhibits featuring key musicians and significant figures in the history of African American music.
Men, Do You Know Your Numbers Series Wednesdays, July 6-August 10 at 12:30 p.m., Malloy/Jordan East Winston Heritage Center The men’s coordinator for the Forsyth County Department of Public Health will talk about a variety of men’s health issues. Register by calling 336-703-2950.
Fraud and Identity Theft July 21 at 10 a.m., Clemmons Branch Representatives from Summit Credit Union will discuss fraud and identity theft. Learn how to avoid the latest tricks and traps set by fraudsters. Visit the branch or call 336-703-2920.
Creating Musical Instruments July 21 at 3 p.m., Walkertown Branch Have you ever wondered how different musical instruments make sounds? Or how are they made? This is your chance to learn about the various instruments and make them for yourself. SUMMER 2022 3
4 INTERSECTIONS MAGAZINE
Spring Into The Season With The Library’s
StoryWalk
THE FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY debuted its first permanent StoryWalk® at Triad Park in Kernersville on Thursday, April 7, as part of its celebration of National Library Week. StoryWalks offer readers of all ages a chance to read and walk outside, as they enjoy a story. The project is a collaboration between the Forsyth County Public Library and Forsyth County’s recreation and parks department, with a goal of encouraging reading outdoors, particularly among younger children. StoryWalk® is located around the loop track at the playground near shelter four. The first story featured is “Lola Plants a Garden” by Anna McQuinn. Park goers can enjoy the StoryWalk® anytime during Triad Park’s regular hours, and the featured story will change four times per year. Each story in the StoryWalk® will feature interactive questions and activities that readers can answer or participate in, as they walk and read along. Participants can scan a QR code to access a survey to give the library feedback on the current StoryWalk® and suggest titles for the StoryWalk® in coming months. The StoryWalk® concept had its beginnings in Montpelier, Vt., in 2007, where founder Anne Ferguson first created a StoryWalk® in an effort to promote both reading and physical activity. The concept has since grown widely in its appeal, and now has a presence in all 50 states and in 13 foreign countries. FCPL, in collaboration with Forsyth County Parks and Recreation, is hopeful that its StoryWalk® will encourage reading in the great outdoors and will connect park goers to the wealth of services it offers for our youngest readers. I | S
RELATED PROGRAMS
— STEFANIE KELLUM, librarian
Ivan Rebello and his son explore StoryWalk®.
Preschool Storytime
Book Babies Storytime
Join Miss Stefanie for stories, singing, and more. Ages 3 to 6.
Tuesdays beginning June 14 at 10 a.m., Central Library We’ll share stories, song, and fingerplays appropriate for children birth to 18 months on the patio until Aug. 16.
Toddler Storytime
Storytime in the Garden
Storytime at the Park
Music and Movement
Come to storytime in the great outdoors at Fourth of July Park in Kernersville. For ages 6 and under. Subject to weather. Weather updates will post on the FCPL 4 Kids Facebook page by 9 a.m. the day of the program.
Music and Movement presents songs, dancing, and stories for ages 2-6.
Wednesdays from June 1-Aug. 17 at 10 a.m.
Thursdays from June 2-Aug. 18 at 10 a.m. Join Miss Stefanie for stories, singing, and more. For ages 2 and under. Saturdays June 4, July 2, and Aug. 6 at 10 a.m.
Tuesdays June 14, July 12, and Aug. 9 at 10 a.m. Enjoy storytime in the great outdoors at the Paul J. Ciener Botanical Gardens in Kernersville. For ages 6 and under. Tuesdays at 11 a.m., June 14-Aug. 18 at Central Library
SUMMER 2022 5
Reign
i
PUBLIC LIBRARIES HAVE A HISTORY OF HELPING READERS WIN WITH SUMMER READING PROGRAMS
F YOU’RE READING THIS MAGAZINE and are a library lover here in Forsyth County, then chances are you’ve heard of our Summer Reading program. If the former is true, then it’s probably also true that you don’t wait until the summer to begin exploring all of the books offered by FCPL. So, what exactly then is Summer Reading? Programs date back as far as library programming itself. The American Library Association’s “Library Journal” documents early versions of such programs by the end of the 19th century. Library leagues were formed to cultivate a love of reading in children. Reading lists, reading logs, quizzes and other activities were developed to incentivize reading and recognize enthusiastic readers just as they are today. Combating the “summer slide” — or academic loss over the summer months — is another core goal of library summer reading programs, particularly here in Forsyth County. Many children rely heavily on school libraries to have access to books. During the summer when schools close, that access dwindles significantly. New research from the Annenberg Institute at Brown University shows that the average student loses 17-34% of the previous year’s gains over the summer, and that those same students are more susceptible to summer learning loss year after year. Public libraries must have robust collections and programs for these readers so that children remain engaged year-round.
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FCPL’s Summer Reading History At-A-Glance Forsyth County Public Library’s first Summer Reading program was introduced in 1977, though summer book clubs with incentives for kids went back as far as the 1950s. In 1980, the theme was “From Hatteras to Cherokee: Folktales and Legends of North Carolina.” The Lewisville and Clemmons branches held events including face painting, balloons, a pinata and a flea circus. In 1986, Forsyth County librarians chose “We the People” as the theme, in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Statue of Liberty, which culminated in a pioneer folk festival held at the Central Library. In the 1990s, Summer Reading kickoff events were held at Hanes Mall and drew huge crowds, with entertainment ranging from banjo performers to librarians, dressed as chefs, dancing.
Early Summer Reading Beyond Forsyth County Summer reading programs were initially built around the idea of kids selecting and reading titles from a preapproved list of books, giving a report on each book to a librarian, and receiving a prize at the end of the summer. Dime store novels definitely didn’t count as reading, and emphasis was placed equally on both reading and teaching children how to properly care for books. Treasure hunting themes were popular in the 1920s, and in the 1930s, travel-themed summer reading programs became widespread — the Los Angeles Public
“The average student loses 17-34% of the previous year’s gains over the summer, and that those same students are more susceptible to summer learning loss year after year.” Library even created realistic looking passports and visas for kids who were reading their way around the world. In the 1940s, wartime caused patriotic themes to replace travel in many summer reading programs. In the 1950s, teens began to be offered their own programs, focused on their interests. In the 1970s, librarians prioritized keeping track of the amount of time kids spent reading, rather than the quantity of books read. Adding activities like sports, cooking, crafts, and games helped give kids a safe and fun place to spend time in the summer months. Instead of oral reports, kids told librarians what books they read.
Summer Reading: Here and Now The 2000s saw the introduction of more outreach efforts with a goal to connect traditionally underserved populations who might not have transportation to the library. Librarians made appearances at local YMCAs, day care centers and Boys and Girls Clubs to introduce summer reading. Today STEM-based learning and partnering with local communities are increasingly popular library practices, both of
which led FCPL to choose the theme “A Breath of Fresh A.I.R. (Arts, Innovation and Reading)” — for it 2022 Summer Reading program. We’ve faced quite a few challenges over the past few years, and we couldn’t be more excited about having Summer Reading return. Children, teens and adults can complete and turn in a reading log to be eligible for a prize. Every three books read counts as one entry into the prize drawing. We’re having lots of fun events, so make sure to pick up a Summer Reading guide. Events include magic shows, a rock concert for kids, a balloon animal performance, professional dance performances, films, author visits, storytimes, and visits from local science and art organizations. Our Summer Reading guides are available at all 10 branches and on the library’s website. I | S — TODD BOWSER, librarian; KAREN FEENEY, library supervisor; JAMIE STROBLE, audiovisual librarian
(above) Librarian Katherine Reid reads to children during the “sumer book parade” in the 1950s. (left) Joe Sundell plays the banjo at Hanes Mall for a Summer Reading kickoff event (1980s). Images courtesy of the Forsyth County Public Library Photograph Collection SUMMER 2022 7
A Snapshot of Summer Reading at FCPL MAY-AUG.
PROGRAMS
ATTENDANCE
DOOR COUNT
CIRCULATION (PHYSICAL)
CIRCULATION (DIGITAL)
READING LOGS RETURNED
2017
362
16,835
341,388
441,538
10,237
2,013
2018
326
11,192
437,322
480,770
5,885
1,143
2019
625
20,306
424,377
458,056
7,250
1,192
2020
512
19,506
90,245
163,977
19,907
1,966
2021
676
14,421
311,102
333,033
23,810
391
Like many other popular community events, Summer Reading suffered a blow during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of Summer Reading 2021, program participants helped re-create a Monet painting.
RELATED SUMMER PROGRAMS Breath of Fresh Air Photo Contest June 13-July 1, Rural Hall Branch Celebrate the beauty of Forsyth County. Submit your photographs on the theme of “Forsyth is…“ to our first Breath of Fresh Air photo contest.
Book Lovers’ Club Clemmons Branch All readers are welcome to the monthly Book Lovers’ Club meeting in the auditorium. All meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. June 6: “The Lost Apothecary” by Sarah Penner July 11: “Dial A for Aunties” by Jesse Q. Sutanto Aug. 1: “Cloud Cuckoo Land” by Anthony Doerr
Writing Workshop: The Gift of Memoir June 25 at 2 p.m. (Virtual via Zoom); presented by the Reynolda Manor Branch Award-winning poetry and nonfiction writer and instructor Maureen Ryan Griffin leads a workshop that offers fun and easy approaches to writing your memoirs. Email falkowsz@forsyth.cc to register and receive a Zoom link.
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SUMMER 2022 9
Q&A with Brian Hart and Chase Law LIBRARY DIRECTOR BRIAN HART TALKS WITH ARTS COUNCIL OF WINSTON-SALEM AND FORSYTH COUNTY’S PRESIDENT AND CEO CHASE LAW
“Our goal is to serve as a leader in lifting up, creating awareness and providing support to grow and sustain artistic, cultural and creative offerings.”
T
Photos courtesy of the Arts Council.
he Arts Council and FCPL both have deep roots in the city’s history. How did you get started?
Arts Council of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County was formed on August 9, 1949, by the Junior League of Winston-Salem as the first arts council in the country, with $7,200 of seed money. Since then, it has become a leading model for how to support arts and culture to maximize benefits for the community. Its mission has evolved to reflect the community’s needs and our work now focuses broadly on providing multi-faceted support services to numerous diverse partner organizations and artists that maintain our city, as the “City of Arts & Innovation.”
How has the arts community evolved here since the Arts Council’s founding? Arts Council is the chief advocate of the arts and cultural sector in Winston-Salem and Forsyth County. Our goal is to serve as a leader in lifting up, creating awareness and providing support to grow and sustain artistic, cultural and creative offerings. Over the last year and more, Arts Council has been focused on helping our arts and cultural sector recover and reemerge. We are working to reinvest time and resources to support local artists and art organizations in new ways. Reinvesting means examining our history, learning from that and understanding how we can improve for the future. Arts Council is working diligently to make the arts a safe and inclusive space.
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Access, equity, diversity and inclusion in the arts helps us overcome challenges and respond to the needs of our community through the lens of arts, culture and creativity. As we are working to reenergize our area arts organizations, programs and individual artists, we are also working to reenergize our entire community. As we launch our new visioning roadmap for the future, we are working with organizations, artists and all sectors to impact areas and individuals throughout our county that need additional resources, support, and positive outlets. Arts Council believes that through community partnerships and collaborations we can find real and positive solutions together that can have long-lasting effects.
We’re both relative newcomers to the city of Winston-Salem, but we share the experience of both having worked in Charlotte. What do you see as Winston-Salem’s strengths? It’s a welcoming city. I have felt very supported since I arrived. It’s a city of big ideas. A city of firsts. Other cities have watched Winston-Salem for years and have worked hard to replicate what we have created.
What excites you about the arts community here? I have been so impressed with the local artists and arts organizations. During the pandemic they worked hard to keep their audiences engaged, used virtual platforms to showcase their programs and fulfill their missions. Now that things are Chase Law open, the arts sector has the opportunity to continue growing partnerships and expanding its reach. And we’re seeing that.
FCPL has an art collection, as well as gallery space for ongoing exhibits at Central Library. We also have a beautiful makerspace — shall we let readers in on a project we plan to hatch with the Arts Council in the next year? We’re going to launch an artist-in-residence program at the library (see ad inside back cover) which we have talked about a bit this year. Additionally, I would love to explore a variety of special exhibitions that we can curate together with community involvement that also includes educational and hands-on components. I’d also like to explore a family-friendly, all-community reading program that culminates into a live and/or staged reading at a city or county park. I | S
ARTS COUNCIL MILESTONES 1958 First “United Arts Fund” campaign 1988 Created an Arts-in-Education grant program in partnership with Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools
1984 1999
Annual fundraising campaign tops $1 million
Initiated “Summer on Trade” as a free 12-week music and arts series in the heart of downtown
2000 Annual fundraising campaign tops $2 million 2010 Completed $27 million comprehensive campaign, resulting in new and renovated arts venues.
RELATED ARTS EVENTS African American Music Film Series Thursdays in June at 2 p.m., Central Library In celebration of African American Music Appreciation Month, the Central Library is offering free screenings of great films: June 9: “Get On Up” (Rated PG-13) June 16: “Purple Rain” (Rated R) June 23: “Straight Outta Compton” (Rated R) June 30: “20 Feet from Stardom” (Rated PG-13)
Celebrating Black Music Month – Dionn Owen & Renaissance June 16 at 7 p.m., Central Library In celebration of Black Music Month, Dionn Owen and Renaissance will share musical selections that feature traditional and contemporary gospel.
A String Family Day with the Winston-Salem Symphony June 21 at 10 a.m., Southside Branch The Winston-Salem Symphony will present a String Family Day. Children can learn, hear and play different string instruments, as well as decorate and take home their own cardboard violin. To register, call 336-703-2980. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Southside Library.
Creating Musical Instruments July 21 at 3 p.m., Walkertown Branch Have you ever wondered how different musical instruments make sounds? Or how are they made? This is your chance to learn about the various instruments and make them for yourself.
SUMMER 2022 11
Local
FOOD ENTREPRENEURS DISCOVER
Sweet Rewards Three local food businesses add flavor to the local food scene
(above): Cinnamon rolls from Louie and Honey's Kitchen; Photographer: Nate Allen (right top): Brooklyn Blackout Cake; Photographer: Nate Allen (right middle): Mini cakes with roses; Photographer: Red Cardinal Studio (right bottom): Naomi and Natalie Gingerich, co-owners of Louie and Honey's Kitchen; Photographer: Red Cardinal Studio 12 INTERSECTIONS MAGAZINE
and
Louie Honey’s Kitchen
W
HEN THE MOTHER-AND-DAUGHTER baking team of Louie and Honey’s Kitchen were getting ready for a local pop-up market in 2017, daughter Natalie Gingerich suggested that they sell her mother’s cinnamon rolls, along with their usual pies, cakes and cookies. “Do you think anyone will even buy them?” Naomi Gingerich said, of the potato-based rolls that she had learned to make when she was growing up in Ohio’s Amish country. The rolls have become the signature product for the specialty pastry shop and café in the West End neighborhood. Naomi Gingerich said that some customers drive from Raleigh and Charlotte for them every week. Naomi Gingerich is a self-taught baker who’s been influenced by her Mennonite upbringing. She learned to cook and bake for large numbers of people by helping her own mother in the kitchen. When she moved to Winston-Salem in 2007, she pursued a career as a writer. In 2014, she started “The Cooks in the Kitchen” food blog, which helped her develop a strong network of foodie sisters, from Winston-Salem to London and Singapore. When daughter Natalie moved to Winston-Salem from New York City, mother and daughter decided to explore working together in a baking business. Between June 2017 and November 2020, they sold their baked goods at over 500 pop-up markets. They opened their storefront in December 2020 and demand became so great, Naomi Gingerich said that “it almost knocked us off our feet.” The business employs a staff of 30, five of whom are from the Burma refugee community. Most employees start with little experience, but Naomi Gingerich said she prefers it that way. Her father, a farmer and Mennonite pastor liked to say that more is caught than taught when it comes to learning. “The café has become a kind of neighborhood go-to place — a little sanctuary — in the West End,” she said. “We hope it feels peaceful and that people can enjoy their time here.” SUMMER 2022 13
Ava’s
Cupcakes
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ANANA GUAVA. LIME AND BASIL. GINGERBREAD CANOLA. Ava’s Cupcakes in Lewisville, offers 20 to 24 cupcake flavors every day, and except for a few regular flavors, the selection changes monthly. The variety and unusual flavors are part of what owner Michelle Spell said has helped her business win national acclaim. The business won a Food Network Competition in 2012, and was featured among the 101 Best Cupcakes in America in 2018 by The Daily Meal. “It is our fresh fruit, fine ingredients, and uncompromised attention to detail that makes our cupcakes so delicious,” Spell said. Spell creates all of the recipes and attributes the unique flavors to being preoccupied by food. “I am always thinking about it. I love it, not just to eat it but to serve it to others,” she said. She started in the food business at age 15 as a hostess in a T.G.I. Fridays Restaurant in New Jersey. After about 10 years with the restaurant, where she worked in various capacities, Spell began a personal chef and catering business, while she raised her five children. “At the point when I was making 400 cupcakes out of the house, I knew it was time for a change,” Spell said. “I knew we had a good product and even though 2011 was a scary time to start a business since people were still recovering from the recession, I took the risk.” The flagship bakery, which is named for her youngest daughter, opened in New Jersey and grew into a big operation. In 2014 she considered expanding. Her family settled in Clemmons and opened their second bakery in 2018, and then a third location off Hanes Mall Boulevard the next year. “I could have kept my business small, especially having had no handbook to guide me, but I have blazed my own trail,” she said. “There has been a lot of stress in this, but also a lot of reward.”
(top) Michelle Spell, owner Ava's Cupcakes; Photographer: Stuart Cummings (left) Mini chocolate cupcakes; Photo: Ava's Cupcakes 14 INTERSECTIONS MAGAZINE
Black Mountain
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Chocolate
NE DAY IN 2011, Brent Peters’ daughter, Megan, gave him some bean-to-bar chocolate. The phrase refers to small batches of chocolate that are overseen by one company, from beans to finished product. Peters was so impressed by the taste that he bought himself a small chocolate grinder and began experimenting with making chocolate. That story comes from Tirra Cowan, the general manager of Black Mountain Chocolate Bar, the business that Peters and his wife, Millie, own in the Innovation Quarter. Black Mountain Chocolate Bar, which grew from Peters’ original experiments with chocolate, serves chocolate bars and baked goods as well as chocolate drinks and cocktails. The business also sells cocoa nibs to several local beer crafters, who use in in their dark beers. It opened in January 2021. Peters started his chocolate business as a sideline in Black Mountain, N.C. in 2009. He made about 200 pounds of chocolate every weekend, Cowan said. He liked the Criollo bean, which comes from the Dominican Republic and accounts for no more than five percent of the world’s chocolate. Peters uses the highest quality of three grades, Cowan said. In 2013, Peters bought the business in Black Mountain and moved it to Winston-Salem. Within a few years, he was giving tours of his chocolate factory on Trade Street. Cowan joined the business in 2015 as an apprentice under Megan Peters, who was the pastry chef. She became general manager in 2017. By the end of 2018, business was going so well, that Peters planned to expand, Cowan said. “He saw an opportunity to bring cocktails to his existing business and decided to add the bar feature,” Cowan said. “Brent started a cocktail lab at his house.” In January 2021, Black Mountain Chocolate Bar opened in Innovation Quarter, across from Bailey Park. “Customers are delighted with the new, modern space that can fit upwards of 40 people,” Cowan said. Fire on the Mountain, a caramel coffee martini garnished with toasted marshmallows made in-house is one of the most popular cocktails, she said. I | S — SUE DEGUZMAN, librarian
(top): A delicious assortment of Black Mountain Chocolates (midddle): Brent and Millie Peters; Photographer: Dhanraj Emanuel for Our State magazine (bottom right): The Fire on the Mountain martini SUMMER 2022 15
Food Events
Celebrate National Melon Month with Chef Floyd June is National Melon month. To celebrate, join Chef Floyd Davis as he shares samples, and nutritious facts about melons. June 16 Malloy/Jordan East Winston Heritage Center at 11 a.m. June 20 Central Library at 11 a.m. June 22 Carver School Road Branch at 11 a.m. June 24 Rural Hall Branch at 11 a.m. June 28 Walkertown Branch at 11 a.m. June 30 Lewisville Branch at 11 a.m. July 5 Clemmons Branch at 11 a.m.
Healthy Eating and Kitchen Skills for Teens, Central Library Learn about kitchen safety and healthy recipes from a professional chef, Floyd Davis. No experience in the kitchen is required. A program waiver is required. If you have allergies or food restrictions, please let us know when you register so we will be able to accommodate them. Email jordanmc@forsyth.cc to register. For ages 12-18.
“I could have kept my business small, especially having had no handbook to guide me, but I have blazed my own trail. There has been a lot of stress in this, but also a lot of reward.” —MICHELLE SPELL, AVA'S CUPCAKES
(above and below): A strawberry cupcake and Oreo Cake by Ava's Cupcakes; Photographer: Stuart Cummings
First course: July 12, 19, and 26 from 10 a.m.-noon Second course: Aug. 2, 9, and 16 from 10 a.m-noon
Southside Branch Cookbook Club July 6 at 1 p.m. Join one of our yummy potlucks this summer, each inspired by a different theme. Fair warning: Everyone MUST bring a dish in order to attend. Call 336-703-2985 or email ackermml@ forsyth.cc for more information.
Home Sweet Home: The Story of Louie and Honey's Kitchen, Lewisville Branch July 12 at 11 a.m. Learn how to create decadent desserts from the mastermind behind Winston-Salem's own Louie and Honey's Kitchen. Naomi Gingerich will share how she and her daughter formed their business. Registration is recommended. Email deguzmse@ forsyth.cc or call 336-703-2940.
Summer Soul Food Recipe Swap July 12 at 3:30 p.m., Central Library (hosted by Carver School Road Branch in Chef Floyd’s kitchen) Are you famous for a dish that makes your family’s cookout worthwhile? Come out to the Summer Soul Food Recipe Swap. Bring home some great recipes and enjoy one of Chef Floyd’s dishes. Registration is recommended. Call 336-703-2919.
Clemmons Branch Cookbook Club June 15, July 20, and Aug. 17 at 12:30 p.m. Each one of our yummy potlucks this summer will be inspired by a different theme. Fair warning: Everyone MUST bring a dish in order to attend. Call 336-703-2921 or slaughdr@forsyth.cc.
Home Sweet Home: The Story of Ava's Cupcakes, Lewisville Branch July 26 at 11 a.m. Michelle Spell, the owner of Ava's Cupcakes, talks about her business and hands out samples. Registration is recommended. Email deguzmse@forsyth.cc or call 336-703-2940.
Home Sweet Home: The Story of Black Mountain Chocolate, Lewisville Branch
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August 11 at 5:30 p.m. Learn how specialty, small batch chocolate is made from the aficionados at Black Mountin Chocolate, a local chocolate factory located in Innovation Quarter. Registration is recommended. Email deguzmse@forsyth.cc or call 336-703-2940.
LIBRARY RE-IMAGINED
Allow Us to Re-introduce Ourselves LIBRARY STAFF HAVE LONG BEEN KNOWN for their ability to provide technology assistance, recommend
books and authors you’ll love and assist with looking for a job. They can also help you do a lot of things you probably never thought of – like help you find your favorite video game, introduce your child to new learning tools and support your efforts at becoming a better writer. Forsyth County Public Library staff talk about what they love about their specialized library work.
JONATHAN FURR
PRISCILLA SPENCER
BIANCA ORELLANA
library supervisor
youth services librarian
library assistant
WHAT I HELP PEOPLE DO The access services department is the first point of contact at the Central Library. In addition to providing circulation services and access to typical library materials, we also strive to provide access to more specialized material, like our new collection of video games for checkout (including popular game series like Mario Kart, Uncharted and a variety of sports games), as well as board and card games for in-house use.
WHAT I HELP PEOPLE DO As a youth services librarian, I primarily help the youth (and their parents) get connected to their next great read. I also introduce people to the fun learning tools that Forsyth County Public Library offers, such as Playaway Launchpads which are tablets that come preloaded with educational apps.
WHAT I HELP PEOPLE DO I run a monthly writers group where local authors—published and unpublished—can come to talk about the process, the craft, and their goals, and I provide as much information as I have about the business. I also assist patrons with my Spanish fluency as the only Spanish-speaker at my branch and one of the few in the system.
UNIQUE PROGRAMS
WHY PEOPLE LIKE THE SERVICES I OFFER I believe people appreciate the efforts we take to make sure we have a diverse collection, both in material formats (movies, books, video games) and in the content of the material (diverse authors and stories.)
WHY PEOPLE LIKE THE SERVICES I OFFER Youth and their families like the services that I offer because it often introduces them to something new and exciting, whether it’s a book or a device. We are able to build a connection that grows each and every time they visit the library, as we are able to discuss their latest reads.
Triad Woodcarvers Club June 15 at 1 p.m., Lewisville Branch Stop by for a woodcarving demonstration and learn more about the club and its activities. Triad Woodcarvers Club is open to ages 13 and up.
WHY PEOPLE LIKE THE SERVICES I OFFER People appreciate my desire to keep my information and knowledge fresh, both when recommending books and guiding writers toward their goals. And Spanish-speaking patrons are often relieved when I’m able to communicate with them about their needs. I hope I’m a vital bridge between all patrons in need and what our library has to offer. I |S
Circuitry June 16 at 3 p.m., Walkertown Branch Do you want to learn about circuitry and how circuits are used in electronics to make them work? This is your opportunity to design circuits and see if what you make works.
SUMMER 2022 17
PEOPLE & PURPOSE
The Lifelong Joys of Reading
PAUL MEIER
MS. JOSEPHINE BAILEY
FOR MOST OF HIS LIFE, Paul Meier had not been a reader. He said that he thought of himself as faking his way through school. When his wife would read in the evenings, he would watch television. In March of this year, Meier told librarians at the Lewisville Branch, that he had finished reading his 600th book — all of them checked out within the last five years. Meier suspects that his conversion from non-reader to reading enthusiast is an unexpected benefit from a fall and a subsequent brain hematoma about five years ago. The fall compressed his brain, a neurosurgeon told Meier. While he was recovering from the fall, his wife urged Meier to read a book. He picked up the book, became engrossed and hasn’t stopped reading since. “It’s my feeling that some connection in my brain changed with that fall,” Meier said. “It’s not that I read any faster, but I started to enjoy reading.” These days Meier carries a small plastic box with index cards where he records the authors and titles he’s read. That’s how he knows that he reached 600 books.
IT’S ALWAYS A PLEASURE to register new patrons for their first library card and help them discover all that the Forsyth County Public Library has to offer. On a recent visit to Salemtowne Retirement Community for our mobile library service, FCPL’s outreach division had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Josephine Bailey. Ms. Bailey is a resident in Salemtowne’s assisted living facility, and an avid reader. Even though Salemtowne has a well-maintained reading room, Ms. Bailey said, that she has read everything they had to offer. The outreach division took this opportunity to explain our library’s services and asked if she had a Forsyth County Public Library card. At 99 years old, Ms. Bailey was very excited to sign up for her first library card. The outreach staff helped her select several books from her favorite genres — suspense and murder mysteries. Ms. Bailey said that she is looking forward to outreach’s future visits to bring her more titles by her favorite authors.
— SUE DEGUZMAN, librarian
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— ALANE PEPPER, library assistant
PEOPLE & PURPOSE
From Our Friends ERICA VERVERS Friends of Walkertown Library WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO JOIN THE FRIENDS FOR YOUR LOCAL FCPL LOCATION? I have now-retired branch manager Natalia Tuchina to thank. She first convinced me to volunteer and, a little later, introduced me to the Friends executive board. I met devoted people who cared deeply about the library, which resonated with me. In 2017, I was thrilled to step in when they needed a secretary and have been with the organization ever since.
WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT YOU ENJOY/LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR LOCAL FCPL LOCATION? The relationship between the branch and the Walkertown community is something I genuinely love. The library staff does a phenomenal job at making sure everyone feels welcome and finds just what they need. Community members, in return, show an incredible devotion and generosity to their local branch. Walkertown is growing rapidly, so it’s also been great to see recent transplants excited to discover all the resources the branch offers. I | S
JULY
UPCOMING PROGRAMS, CONT.
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Introduction to Ballroom Dance July 12 at 6:30 p.m., Reynolda Manor Branch Mary Ann Molloy of Real World Ballroom Dance School will discuss the benefits of dance and the science behind it. There will also be a dance demonstration with optional audience participation. To register, email falkowsz@forsyth.cc or call 336-703-2960.
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July 23 at 2 p.m., Reynolda Manor Branch Triad writer Diana Engel discusses how to create writing that sings or sizzles, rants or whispers. To register, email falkowsz@forsyth.cc or call 336-703-2960.
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Introduction To Fly Fishing July 16 at 11 a.m., Reynolda Manor Branch John Bowman of Blue Ridge Trout Unlimited will present an interactive introduction to fly fishing. His group is a nonprofit dedicated to the conservation of freshwater streams, rivers, and habitats. To register, email falkowsz@ forsyth.cc or call 336-703-2960.
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July 28 at 10 a.m. (WT) and noon (Carver) Join T.K. The Chemist for a fun and exciting STEM experience. Students will engage with science activities that incorporate dexterity, kinesthetic learning and interaction.
The Hook & Loop Group Aug. 3 at 11 a.m. (in person at Lewisville branch and virtual) Bring your knitting, crochet or embroidery project to work on or use supplies and patterns we will have on hand. All skill levels are welcome. No formal instruction. Registration recommended. Call 336-703- 2940 or email deguzmse@forsyth.cc
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Wise Guys Workshop Series Aug. 8-11 from 2-3:15 p.m., Central Library Makerspace Wise Guys, a program of the Children’s Home Society of NC, engages young men in a holistic program that provides them with advice to make healthy choices. Recommended for male-identifying participants ages 12-18. To register, email jordanmc@forsyth.cc.
20 North Carolina Zoo’s “Oceans of Possibilities” July 20 at 10:30 a.m., Carver School Road Branch The North Carolina Zoo brings its animal ambassadors to a discussion of the ocean and its habitat. All ages are welcome. For more information, call 336-703-2913, or email leonarzl@forsyth.cc
T.K. The Chemist
AUGUST
20 Old Salem Weaving July 20 at 10 a.m., Lewisville Branch Peggy Moore of The Delta Arts Center will show children weaving techniques that would have been used by residents of Old Salem. Seating is limited. To register, contact luntzra@forsyth.cc or call 336-703-2940. Sponsored by the Friends of the Lewisville Library.
From Word to Image: Writing Vivid Fiction, Memoir and Poetry
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The North Carolina Zoo’s in Town Aug. 11 at 10:30 a.m., Lewisville Branch The North Carolina Zoo brings its animal ambassadors to a program about our oceans. For information, call 336-703-2940. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Lewisville Branch.
SUMMER 2022 19
FROM THE BOOKSHELF
A Breath of Fresh A.I.R.
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FICTION
1. “Carolina Built” by Kianna Alexander
(2022) Based on the true story of Josephine N. Leary, who was born into slavery and became a real estate entrepreneur in North Carolina after the Civil War. As the demands of life pull at Josephine’s attention, she struggles to balance her real estate aspirations with the realities of keeping life going every day. 2. “The Red Lotus” by Chris Bohjalian
(2020) An American man vanishes from a rural road in Vietnam and his girlfriend, an ER doctor, follows a path to the hospital where they first met. Set amid the adrenaline-fueled world of the emergency room, “The Red Lotus” is a story of those who dedicate their lives to saving people, and those who peddle death to the highest bidder. 3. “D’Vaughn & Kris Plan a Wedding”
by Chencia C. Higgins (2022) Going on the reality show “Instant I Do” could be Kris Zavala’s big break. D’Vaughn Miller is just trying to break out of her shell, and the show seems just the way to do it. All they have to do is convince their friends and family they’re getting married in six weeks. But each week of the competition brings new challenges. 4. “Great Circle” by Maggie Shipstead
(2022)
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Aa a child in 1914, Marian Graves encounters a pair of barnstorming pilots and commences her lifelong love affair with flight. A century later, Hadley Baxter is cast to play Marian in a film that centers on Marian’s disappearance in Antarctica and the two women’s fates collide.
ultimately building the kind of empathy that might just be the antidote against the racial injustice in our society.
8. “The Treeline: The Last Forest and the Future of Life on Earth” by Ben Rawlence (2022) For the last 50 years, the trees of the 5. “The Violin Conspiracy” by Brendan boreal forest have been moving north. Slocumb (2022) “The Treeline” takes us along this critical While growing up in rural North Carolina, frontier of our warming planet on a jourRay McMillian’s life is already mapped out. ney of wonder and awe at the mysterious But he’s determined to become a world- workings of the forest upon which we rely class violinist. On the eve of the cutthroat for the air we breathe. Tchaikovsky Competition his violin is stolen. 9. “Shine Bright: A Ver y Personal History of Black Women in Pop” by NONFICTION Danyel Smith (2022) 6. “Gods of the Upper Air: How a A combination of memoir, criticism, and Circle of Renegade Anthropologists biography that tells the story of Black Reinvented Race, Sex, and Gender women in music — from the Dixie Cups in the Twentieth Century” by Charles to Gladys Knight to Janet Jackson, WhitKing (2020) ney Houston, and Mariah Carey — as the A dazzling group portrait of Franz Boas, foundational story of American pop. the founder of cultural anthropology, and his circle of female scientists, who 10. “The Third Pole: Mystery, Obsesupended American notions of race, gen- sion, and Death on Mount Everest” by Mark Synnott (2022) der, and sexuality in the 1920s and 1930s. Veteran climber Mark Synnott never 7. “I Take My Coffee Black: Reflections planned on climbing Mount Everest, but a on Tupac, Musical Theater, Faith, 100-year mystery lured him into an expeand Being Black in America” by Tyler dition —and an awesome history of advenMerritt (2021) ture, tragedy, and aspiration unfolded. I | S “I Take My Coffee Black” paints a portrait of Black manhood in America that — LARA LUCK, collection development supervisor enlightens, illuminates, and entertains—
VIDEO GAMES AVAILABLE
> Three item limit > One-week checkout with one optional renewal Xbox One • Xbox Series X • Nintendo Switch Playstation 4 • Playstation 5 For questions, comments or suggestions, please see a staff member.
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For questions and more information, ask a librarian for assistance or contact us at 336-703-3079. You may also visit our website forsythlibrary.org.
