Liberty Leader March 2025

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COMMUNITY

Thursday, March 6th, 6:00 p.m. - Fundraiser Paint Night for the Liberty Public Library. Contact Brenda at 336-483-1231 to register

Friday, March 7th at 6:00 p.m. - Live Acoustic Music with Rod Brady

Sat, March 8 at 4 p.m. - Keith Bartell LIVE - Keeping Old School Alive

Sun, March 9 at 2:00 p.m - YOGA with Teana

Friday, March 14 at 5:00 p.m. - Ian Sykes LIVE Acoustic Music

Sat, March 15 - 5 p.m. - Favored Band AND Custom Corn Food Truck

Sunday, March 16 - 2 p.m. - Stretch & Relaxation with Tamara

Sunday, March 23 - 2 p.m. - YOGA with Teana

Thursday, March 27 - 6 p.m. - Liberty Grounds Book Club

Sat, March 29th - 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.- Liberty Grounds Spring Fling Vendor Market with live music at 11:00

Sunday, March 30th - 2 p.m. - Stretch & Relaxation with Tamara

Sat, April 5 - 5 p.m. - Live Acoustic Music with Dylan Branson

Snow Camp General Store

Phone:(919) 308-4454

Website:https://www.snowcampstore.com/

Email: snowcampstore@gmail.com

Social: @SnowCampGeneralStore

Selling tools, hand crafted items, furniture, and miscellaneous building supplies. Available online

J&E Support Group

Phone:919-618-3215

Easy way to support Siloam Missionary Homes AND have some fun. We've got some great new things too announce about this event, so stay tuned. Join Us for Siloam’s First Annual Spring Festival!

Music | Games | Hayrides | Car Show | Bounce House | Face Painting | Family Fun

Date: May 3, 2025 Time: 10 AM – 2 PM

Location: Siloam Missionary Homes

Admission: A donation to Dad’s Country Store (one per person)

Help us stock Dad’s Country Store, which provides essential items free to missionaries! Suggested donations include:

Toothpaste & toothbrushes, Shampoo & conditioner, Laundry soap, Toilet paper & paper towels, Canned goods, pasta, condiments, Cereal, cookies, chips, children’s snacks

Come enjoy a fun-filled day while making a difference for missionary families around the world!

Website:www.jesupport.org

Email: maddieandrews@jesupport.org

Social: Facebook

Our mission is to promote mental health awareness, and education and provide support to our community

Donation Drop Off Day

Mark your calendars for March 22, 2025, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, the American Legion will be hosting a donation drop off day for their Spring Yard Sale which will be held the weekend of the Liberty Antiques Festival. This is the perfect opportunity to donate items you no longer need and support a great cause.

We encourage everyone to bring gently used items that can find a new home. Household goods, toys, Christmas items and other miscellaneous items are welcome. Your contributions will help make the yard sale a success. Proceeds from the yard sale will support the American Legion and its programs, which include veteran services, youth mentorship, and community outreach. Your participation and donations will make a meaningful impact. If you can’t make this day, we will have another, Drop Off Day on April 12th

American Legion Post #81, 604 S. Greensboro St, Liberty, NC

336-337-1309 or 336-707-8177

E. Third St. Siler City

Just wanted to give a shout out to Mitch and Jewel with Llamazing Brew members of GRABNC. June 15, 2024 they started in my parking lot with their coffee trailer. Fast forward to February 15, 2025 they are in their own store!!! I'm so proud of them! -GRABNC

Different Moon Phases and Their Significance in Planting

The practice of planting by the moon is based on the belief that the moon's phases and positions in the zodiac have a direct influence on the growth and development of plants. According to this belief, the moon's phases and positions in the zodiac can affect the moisture content of the soil, the rate of germination, the growth rate of plants, and the yield of crops.

The four main phases of the moon are new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter. Each of these phases is associated with a specific type of plant growth:

• New Moon: The new moon is associated with the beginning of the lunar cycle and is considered a good time for planting seeds and transplanting seedlings. According to lunar gardening tradition, the new moon is a time of high moisture content in the soil, which is ideal for seed germination and plant growth.

• First Quarter: The first quarter is associated with rapid plant growth and is considered a good time for planting above-ground crops such as leafy greens, flowers, and fruit trees. According to lunar gardening tradition, the first quarter is a time of high moisture content in the soil, which is ideal for rapid plant growth.

• Full Moon: The full moon is associated with the peak of the lunar cycle and is considered a good time for planting root crops such as potatoes, carrots, and onions. According to lunar gardening tradition, the full moon is a time of low moisture content in the soil, which is ideal for root development and storage crops.

• Last Quarter: The last quarter is associated with the end of the lunar cycle and is considered a good time for planting aboveground crops such as leafy greens, flowers, and fruit trees. According to lunar gardening tradition, the last quarter is a time of low moisture content in the soil, which is ideal for plant growth and development.

No luck needed to get great plumbing! We are closer than the end of a rainbow and easier to find than a pot of gold! Happy to help with all your house plumbing concerns and needs! Call or text

1512 Main Street Ramseur, NC 27316 336-824-2232

www.randolphlibrary.org

March 6 – “In Like a Lion Out Like a Lamb”

March 13 – “St. Patrick’s Day”

March 20 – “Hurray for Spring!” March 27 – “Kite Day”

Why Call Us First …

• Never an overtime charge

• You know the price, before we start

• Clean professional technicians

• Work is always guaranteed

• Extended warranty programs

• Licensed and insured

Services…

• Air conditioners & heat pumps • Furnace & air handlers

• Comprehensive maintenance • Indoor air quality specialist • Air duct

The Randolph County EDC staff had the opportunity for a plant tour today at the Toyota site. They showed us how the battery casings for hybrid batteries were made. We enjoyed the tour and it is amazing how undeveloped land has turned into this amazing plant. Thank you Marrissa Baxter for giving us the tour.

Teacher Of The Year !

Today I had the privilege of joining my family as we celebrated my mother for Teacher of the Year. An accomplishment that is much deserved for all she does for her kids. She and my aunt both followed in my grandmothers footsteps and became educators. It has been hard since losing her but this win just solidified they are their mother’s children and she would be so very proud of you Mom.

FitForLiberty Brings Local Businesses Together at Networking Event

On January 29th,

FitForLiberty hosted its first Small Business Happy Hour Networking Event at Liberty Grounds Coffee Shop, bringing together 30-40 local entrepreneurs and business owners. The event, themed Goal Getters Unite, provided a space for professionals to connect, collaborate, and set growth-focused goals for the year ahead.

FitForLiberty is a community-driven wellness movement dedicated to supporting physical, mental, and emotional well-being, while also fostering economic growth for small businesses. Through events like this and the upcoming FitForLiberty Health & Wellness Expo in November, the organization continues to create opportunities that uplift both individuals and the local economy.

For more updates on FitForLiberty and future networking events, follow along at www.fitforlibertyexpo.com

The Ramseur Substation open house was a success.

Special thanks to the following businesses and individuals for helping us celebrate this momentous occasion:

Creative Florist & Gifts for the beautiful flower arrangement provided for the reception table.

Whitaker Farms for the lovely ferns in the planter and donated for door prizes.

Ramseur / Eastern Randolph Area Chamber of Commerce for providing ribbon-cutting supplies.

Exxon / Ini Burger for supplying bottled water and cookies.

Vee's Place Old-Fashioned Bakery, for providing lemon squares.

Chick-fil-A of Asheboro for providing a nugget tray, tea, and lemonade.

Domino's Pizza for providing pizza.

Carlie C's IGA for providing a fruit tray.

We also want to thank those who assisted with obtaining other donated items for this event and those who sent plants and welcome greetings.

We are all truly blessed with supportive citizens and local businesses.

Hello Sunshine! Find the Perfect Pair of Shoes This Spring

(StatePoint) Spring is in the air, and it’s time to shed those winter boots and embrace the sunshine! This guide is your ultimate resource for finding the right shoes to elevate your spring look. Whether you’re seeking statement-making colors, effortless comfort or athletic performance, get ready to discover the latest trends, and find the perfect pair to complement your spring wardrobe.

1. Colorful Styles: From classic sneakers to trendy slides, there’s a pair for every personality and every age. This season, brands like Nike, New Balance, Crocs and Hey Dude are delivering vibrant colors and playful patterns. So, let your style shine!

2. The Classics: Looking for some timeless footwear to enhance your style this spring? Look no further than Adidas, Converse, and Y2K styles from New Balance. These iconic brands offer timeless designs that are great for everyday wear.

3. Sandals and Easy Comfort: Who says fashion can’t be comfortable? Reef, Crocs, Madden Girl and Birkenstock offer a variety of easy-to-wear sandals and shoes ideal for relaxing at home or running errands around town.

4. Athletic Performance: Performance never goes out of style with athletic shoes from Nike, Brooks, Skechers, New Balance and Adidas. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a weekend warrior, these brands have shoes that can help you reach your fitness goals. Find shoes for everyone in the family by visiting rackroomshoes.com. For one-stop shopping, visit Rack Room Shoes in your area to browse for fun and exclusive accessories only available in-store.

Spring is a time for renewal and fresh starts, and the perfect pair of shoes can help you step into the season with confidence and style.

FFA STUDENTS FROM EASTERN RANDOLPH, PROVIDENCE GROVE, AND WHEATMORE HIGH SCHOOLS PARTICIPATE IN LEGISLATIVE DAY IN RALEIGH

Randolph County School System

Future Farmers of America (FFA) students from Eastern Randolph, Providence Grove, and Wheatmore High Schools participated in the annual FFA Legislative Day on Tuesday, February 18, in Raleigh, North Carolina. The event focused on civic engagement, leadership, and citizenship development, providing students with a unique opportunity to engage with state legislators and discuss important agricultural and community issues.

Throughout the day, students attended leadership sessions designed to strengthen their understanding of governmental processes and their role as future leaders in agriculture. They also had the invaluable experience of meeting with local legislators from their respective districts to discuss

Community

Patriot Country

When word got out at PG that Branson was having another surgery Cody Moran and the football players came together and signed a helmet to give to Branson as a gift and to let him know they were praying for him! We really do have the BEST community!! -Leah Helton

Patriot Country

As PGHS Winter seasons come to an end and Providence Grove transfers into its Spring sports i was able to speak with a few of the women’s soccer players about their hopes for this season. Their love for soccer, and how they balance their time with sports as well as their school work.

Alisa Shaw (Junior at PGHS) -

“This season we are trying to win conference, I am hoping to help my team achieve this goal by doing my part as part of the defense. I am hoping to improve my skills as sweep and play my best to shut down attackers. I hope I can be remembered as doing my best and contribute to my teams success. It can be difficult balancing school and sports especially this year with my AP classes. I’ve had to learn how to practice time management and staying organized. Just like in soccer you have to put in consistent effort for success. Sometimes I have to sacrifice my free time to stay on top of assignments, like late nights after practices, and work over the weekends. But I couldn’t do it without support, my dad has really helped me to excel in school and supporting me when it gets stressful. I also have an amazing coach that makes sure we put school first and helps us succeed in school and sports.

I have played soccer most of my life and it will always hold a place in my heart. I love the thrill of working with my team to fight for a win. So much of soccer is about working with your teammates. Learning to put trust in each other helps us achieve something bigger than if we were alone. I have made life long friends and have learned so much through the amazing people I have meet. Soccer has shaped the person I am, it has taught me discipline, resilience, and leadership. I will always cherish the things I have learned from playing soccer. “

Alyssa Michelle Sayuri Mesmer (Freshman at PGHS)“I am hopeful to win conference and get our year on the banner for soccer, i am able to balance sports because my practice only goes until 5:30 so it gives me time to study if needed, i love soccer because of the environment, friends i’ve made, the adrenaline while playing, and the overall atmosphere on the field. “

Wishing the best of luck to both of these ladies as they go through the Junior and Freshman years playing soccer for PGHS!

ATTENTION COACHES !!!!! If you’re interested in coaching this season, please send an email to providencegroveyf@gmail.com. Looking for passionate coaches who played football. Must be enthusiastic, passionate, competitive and ready to work. Joshua 1;9

Patriot Gamers and SERMS partnered with UNCG, to see the collegiate level of ESPORTS offered at UNCG. Our Patriot Gamers were able to play for 2 hours in their arena and interact with our middle school ESPORTS team. Thanks UNCG for being an awesome host!!!

Patriot Country

Providence Grove High School Comes Together to Honor Eli Burton’s Memory

Randolph County School System

February 28, 2025

Providence Grove High School community came together today in support of their beloved history teacher, Mr. Burton, whose son, Eli, passed away at just 15 years old. Eli, a lifetime resident of Chatham County, was known for his love of animals, his deep connection with his family, and his infectious joy for life, despite the many challenges he faced. Rooting for his Tennessee Volunteers made him happy, happy, happy! To honor Eli’s memory and show support for the Burton family, students and staff wore orange. The outpouring of love and support from the Providence Grove High School community is a testament to the deep connections Mr. Burton has forged with his students and families.

Esteban's Journey: A Team Manager's Impact and

the Power of Inclusion

Randolph County School System

February 19, 2025

For the past two seasons, Esteban has been an invaluable part of the Patriot JV basketball team, serving as a dedicated manager. He regularly attended practices, actively participated in the athletes' training, and helped during home games. His responsibilities included preparing water, keeping game statistics, and talking with players about their performance. The team did a fantastic job of including Esteban, making him feel like a vital member of their basketball family. Among the many teammates who showed Esteban kindness and respect, two young men stood out—Caden Waugh and Landon Fox. While all the players valued Esteban and treated him with appreciation, Caden and Landon went above and beyond, ensuring he always felt included. They listened to him at games, practices and included him at lunch. The entire team involved him throughout the school day, reinforcing a strong sense of belonging. While the players created a welcoming environment, it was Coach Cyle Cassidy who played a major role in Esteban’s journey as a team manager. As one of Esteban’s teachers, Coach Cassidy quickly formed a bond with him over their shared love of basketball. He encouraged Esteban to assist with practices and home games, making sure he had an active role in the team's activities. Coach Cassidy maintained open communication with Esteban’s parents, ensuring they were informed about practice and game schedules. Coach Cassidy also advocated for Esteban to have real game experience by allowing him playing time in the team's last game of the season during the “5th quarter”. Through the collective effort of the team and the guidance of Coach Cassidy, Esteban found not only a meaningful role within the program but also a supportive community that valued and respected him. His contributions, enthusiasm, and passion for the game made a lasting impact on everyone involved. Sometimes winning is the score at the end, but including others is ALWAYS a win.

Lost and Found

Have you ever gotten lost? Maybe it’s harder to get lost these days with GPS and digital maps, but I remember as a kid getting separated from my mother on a shopping trip. I can still remember the feeling of desperation thinking that I was by myself and not where I was supposed to be. I wasn’t sure how it happened and I wasn’t sure how to fix the mess I found myself in but I longed to be back at home where I was safe and secure.

In the Bible, Jesus tells three stories back to back about lost things. There’s a sheep that had wandered away from the rest of the flock, kind of like I had wandered away from my mom. I’m sure the sheep didn’t know it had strayed until it looked around and realized it was no longer under the shepherd’s protection and care. There’s the story of a valuable coin that is lost somewhere in the house. The coin doesn’t know it is lost, of course, but it will never experience its true value unless it is found. And there’s the story of a son who disrespects his father by taking his share of the inheritance early and then squandering it in sinful living until the money runs out and he hits rock bottom. The son has a brother who doesn’t really love the father, either, but believes he deserves whatever he wants because he works himself to death doing all the right things for all the wrong reasons.

Fortunately, each story features a hero as well. The good shepherd leaves behind the ninety-nine other sheep in the flock to go find the lost sheep and bring him back to safety. A woman searches diligently for her lost coin in the middle of the night, searching and sweeping everywhere until she finds it. The father of the two sons welcomes the sinful one home unconditionally with open arms and pleads with the self-righteous one to stop trying to earn love and instead to joyfully accept his father’s love as a gift. Of course, these “heroes” are all pictures of God, our heavenly Father. Are you feeling lost today? Maybe you see yourself in one of these stories. The sheep who didn’t realize he had wandered until he realized the danger he was in. The coin that is lost and alone in the corner of a dusty room, feeling worthless. The son who made some pretty bad decisions but eventually comes to his senses. The other son who thinks all of his good deeds require his father to do something for him. If any of these hit a bit too close to home for you, God is the hero ready to find you and welcome you back. If you aren’t already connected to a church family, let me invite you to come visit us at the brand new Growing Faith Church on Sunday mornings at 9:30am. We meet in the Liberty Elementary School cafeteria and we would love to share the good news of how Jesus found all of us when we were lost.

Every one of these stories that Jesus told ends with a great big celebration when the lost thing is found and Jesus tells his listeners that heaven celebrates the same way when a lost person comes home. We would love to be the GPS that points you to the party heaven wants to throw in your honor.

Brian Beasley, Pastor

Growing Faith Church Liberty, NC

Why This Flavor Will Be on Your Plate in 2025

(StatePoint) Aji Amarillo, which translates to “yellow chile pepper,” is grown in Peru and is native to South America. Long considered a staple ingredient in Peruvian cuisine, this moderate-heat pepper with fruity notes reminiscent of passionfruit and mango is going to spice things up in kitchens worldwide in the year ahead.

That’s according to the McCormick Flavor Forecast 25th edition, a wellresearched annual report exploring the culinary trends shaping the future of flavor in homes, restaurants and grocery stores.

“Our Flavor of the Year, Aji Amarillo, lends itself to amplifying both sweet and tangy flavors and adds dimension to smoked or charred items,” says Hadar Cohen Aviram, executive chef and senior manager, Culinary Development, U.S. Consumer at McCormick. “The Aji Amarillo Seasoning is a delicious, sweet and spicy blend that enhances any dish including seafood, poultry, sauces, salsas and more.”

With foodies today increasingly craving flavors that offer both sweet and spicy elements—nearly one-tenth of U.S. restaurants have “sweet and spicy” menu items, according to Datassential—the predicted popularity of Aji Amarillo aligns perfectly with the “swicy” trend. To bring this delicious complexity into your own kitchen, try this recipe for Queso Fundido from McCormick—a rich, molten blend of melty cheese, it’s the perfect match for the tropical flavors, smoke, and moderate heat of Aji Amarillo

Seasoning:

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Makes 4 Servings

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 1 medium onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 teaspoons McCormick Aji Amarillo Seasoning, divided

• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled Mexican chorizo

• 2 cups shredded Oaxaca cheese, divided

• 1 cup crumbled Cotija cheese, divided

• 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

• 1 1/2 tablespoons sliced green onions

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Heat oil in medium cast-iron skillet on medium high heat. Add onion and garlic, cook and stir until deep golden brown and slightly charred, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet; mix with 3 teaspoons of the Aji Amarillo Seasoning.

2. Place 1 1/2 cups Oaxaca cheese and 1/2 cup Cotija cheese in skillet. Layer with the onion mixture and cooked chorizo, top with remaining cheese.

3. Bake until the cheese is bubbling, about 5 to 7 minutes.

4. Remove from oven and garnish with cilantro, sliced green onions and 1 teaspoon Aji Amarillo seasoning. Serve hot with tortilla chips.

“Americans are adventurous eaters and that’s reflected in our Flavor of the Year, Aji Amarillo, a true embodiment of flavors that pack a punch,” says Cohen Aviram.

$250 - $1000 $250 - $1000 $1250 - $7000 $1250 - $7000

Unleash Your Creativity in the Kitchen and Eat Healthier

(StatePoint) Eating healthier doesn’t have to be boring, according to chefs, fitness experts and dietitians. Here’s how to unleash your creativity to ensure your meals and snacks satisfy your cravings:

Go bold: Don’t equate healthy eating with blandness. Instead, add big, bold flavor to meals using herbs, spices, and tangy add-ins, such as vinegar and citrus. Not only will doing so help keep you satisfied, some of these ingredients even have powerful health benefits.

Be willing to learn: If culinary experimentation intimidates you, consider taking a cooking class to gain confidence in the kitchen. Classes are offered at every level and focus on different cuisines and techniques, making it possible to find a course that suits your needs and interests. If you can’t find the right in-person class or your time or budget are tight, check out the wealth of free cooking instruction available online and on social media channels like YouTube and Instagram.

Focus on protein: Make sure all of your meals and snacks are rich in lean protein. This macronutrient is an essential component of a healthy body and can help you feel full for longer. Fortunately, there are flavorful protein options that are also convenient and practical, such as StarKist’s Creations Protein Pouches. From tangy and sweet to spicy and savory, these pouches include Tuna Creations, Chicken Creations, Salmon Creations and the newly launched Beef Creations, and are the ultimate canvas for flavor experimentation. Each fully-cooked, ready-to-eat pouch packs 8-17 grams of protein per serving and comes in over 20 unique flavors, including favorites like Honey BBQ, Bacon Ranch, Hot Buffalo, Thai Chili Style and Zesty Lemon Pepper and more.

Mix it up: Avoid dietary ruts. To keep things interesting, try new recipes using different ingredients and flavor combinations, like this Mashup “Tunaco” recipe made with StarKist Tuna Creations.

Ingredients:

• One 2.6-ounce pouch StarKist Tuna Creations Bacon Ranch

• One 2.6-ounce pouch StarKist Tuna Creations Thai Chili

• 2 small flour tortillas (or soft corn tortillas, if preferred)

• 1 cup pico de gallo (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 lime, cut into wedges

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (about 2-3 tablespoons)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tuna: Open the StarKist Tuna Creations Bacon Ranch pouch and the StarKist Tuna Creations Thai Chili pouch mix well together to create the ultimate Mashup.

2. Warm the Tortillas: Lightly warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30-60 seconds on each side, or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 20-30 seconds.

3. Assemble the Tunaco: Place two spoonfuls of the Bacon Ranch and Thai Chili Tuna Mashup in each tortilla. Top with a generous spoonful of pico de gallo for a fresh, zesty crunch.

4. Garnish: Squeeze a wedge of lime over the top of each wrap for a hint of citrusy brightness. Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the top for an added burst of freshness.

5. Serve: Enjoy these easy and delicious Tunacos that bring the ultimate flavor Mashup to every bite!

For more nutritious, protein rich recipes and products, visit StarKist.com.

You don’t have to be a top chef to create dishes that are anything but ordinary. Step outside your comfort zone, experiment, and have a blast discovering new possibilities in the kitchen.

Town of Liberty

FY 25/26 Budget Calendar

Action

Thur March 3-Council and Staff Budget Retreat-Department Presentations

Tues. March 10-Council and Staff Budget Retreat on Tax Rate, Fees, and Enterprise Fund (Water and Sewer)

Wed March 15 -Council and Staff Budget Retreat on Enterprise Fund and Water/Sewer Rates

Mon-Fri March 16-May 2-Town Manager & Finance Director finalize Budgets for presentation.

April 21, (Mon) Budget Appropriation Presentations -Town Council Works Session

May 19, (Mon) at 5:30 pm Proposed FY 25/26 Budget presented to Council at Regular Scheduled work session

May 27, (Tues) at 5:30 pm Proposed FY 25/26 Public Hearing for citizen input

June 9 (Mon) at 5:30 pm

Regular Council Work session if needed

June 16 (Mon) at 5:30 pm Budget at Regular Council Meeting

Lifeguard Training Classes

ASHEBORO -

Department is providing Blended Learning American Red Cross Lifeguard Training throughout the spring, in preparation for the summer.

The cost of the classes are $225.00. Participants must meet and pass all prerequisites set by the American Red Cross. These include being a minimum age of 15, and being able to complete a 300 meter swim, the retrieval and return of a 10 pound object from an 8 foot depth, and a 2 minute tread without the use of hands. Payment is not needed until after participants have completed and passed the prerequisite skills. The training can be registered for online via the ACRS website, or in person. Classes will be held on the following dates:

All sessions are hybrid with some portions of class and learning taking place online.

Individuals seeking employment are encouraged to submit an application to become an ACRS lifeguard. Applications can be found online or at the ACRS of

For more information, or to register for your perquisite skills test, please contact Jessica Kuebuafor at (336) 318-1075 or via e-mail at jkuebuafor@ci.asheboro.nc.us

How to Use Color to Be More

Productive and Creative

(StatePoint) For many people, the start of a new year is the time to get serious about projects large and small. But if you’re struggling to buckle down, or you’re having trouble coming up with ideas, you may be surprised to learn that by leaning into color and the science behind it, you can hack your way to a more productive and creative 2025.

Studies have shown that colors can have a powerful effect on the mind and body, impacting the way we feel and think. In fact, certain colors can do everything from lowering your heart rate to improving your memory. There are many ways to harness the power of color science, from painting the walls of your home office and adding plants into your workspaces, to even selecting your writing tools wisely.

When it comes to boosting your productivity and creativity, here’s how to harness the power of color science for writing:

Unleash Your Creativity

Did you know that Purple is a powerhouse for creative thinking? Reach for a lighter shade when you need a fresh idea for this year’s school fundraiser or you’re meeting with your work teammates for a crucial brainstorming session. Want to add some drama or personality to your next presentation? Darker shades of purple have an aura of luxury, mystery and sophistication, and can be used strategically in presentations and hand-written communications to project these qualities in your work and ideas.

Stuck on a seemingly unsolvable problem? Lighter shades of purple are known to help break through writer’s block and open a world of possibilities.

Reach for the G2 Purple Creativity pack to help you whenever you need a flash of inspiration. Comprised of purple hues, use this color pack to fuel your creative spark when making visual art, writing poetry or composing music, or whenever you simply need to unleash your inner visionary.

Unlock Your Productivity

Blue is a strong choice for generating ideas and evoking peace, making it a helpful color to employ when you need to stay cool and confident in the face of a challenge. The G2 Blue Productivity pack features curated hues of blue to give you an arsenal of tools to work with for tackling different tasks.

Lighter shades of blue can help you hone in on the details, so if you’re balancing your household budget, making your daily to-do list, or proofreading your work, use a light blue pen to do it. Because darker blues aid in problem-solving under pressure, you can lean into these shades for tasks like delivering a wrap-up

report to your supervisor on a deadline, working out an equation during a timed test, or taking notes during a call.

Color science can also help you in other areas of your life. That’s the idea behind the new G2 Boost Collection from Pilot Pen. Each pack of pens is offered in a range of hues within one color family to keep your projects organized, and is designed to fuel your writing, self-empowerment and self-expression.

Shades of green can be used for achieving more inner balance, while pinks can be used for adopting a more optimistic mindset. To learn more about reaching your goals with writing tools, visit powertothepen.com/g2-boost.

Whether you’re a visionary who has trouble getting started, or you’re raring to go but just need a great idea, color science and the right writing tools can help you amplify your innate talents, harness new skills, and maximize your mindset to unlock your potential.

Looking for Quality Family Time?

Consider a 'Playcation'!

(StatePoint) Kids often have a big say when it comes to family travel. Thankfully, there are a growing number of getaways geared for kids and kids-at-heart, and more opportunities for the youngest members of the family to be part of the vacation planning process!

With this in mind, Dolly Parton has teamed up with Tennessee Tourism to inspire families to plan a Tennessee adventure with the Tennessee Playcation Kid’s Guide. Available now for preorder at DollyPlaycation.com, the 90-plus page guide is designed to spark creativity and pure imagination, and help families map out their dream getaway.

Ten Butterfly Tickets will be hidden randomly amongst the mailed guides, offering a once-in-a-lifetime VIP Dollywood Experience. The lucky recipients will win a VIP celebration at the park’s 2025 season opening (timed with its 40th season), including a twonight stay at one of Dollywood’s luxury resorts for a family of four, season passes to Dollywood, a signed Dolly-inspired guitar and an activity pass to explore more of Pigeon Forge’s family-friendly attractions.

“There’s nothing quite like spending time with family, and I’m just thrilled to help folks plan a Tennessee vacation at one of my favorite places,” said Dolly Parton, Dollywood’s “Dreamer in Chief.”

More than 250,000 printed guides are available upon request at TNvacation.com. Featuring kid-friendly activities and over 45 family-friendly Tennessee destinations, such as Dollywood, the Memphis Zoo, Tennessee Aquarium, Grand Ole Opry and more, the interactive guide turns trip-planning into a fun, family affair. Kids can also submit their own artwork for a chance to be featured on a Tennesseesponsored billboard.

Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to learn more about family getaways in Tennessee. You can also join the conversation on social media with @TNvacation using hashtag #TNSoundsPerfect.

At the crossroads of history and hospitality, Tennessee is one of the best states to visit in the USA and a global destination for travelers of all ages who want to experience world-class music, live entertainment, innovative and classic culinary creations and scenic beauty.

Canning is one of our big winter projects, and this season, we canned our largest BBQ Sauce volume yet —bottling over 300 jars of our homemade Byrd’s BBQ Sauce! Whether you love a classic mild or crave a little extra heat, we’ve got the jar for you. You'll also see Byrd's BBQ Sauce on a few of our Cider House favorites - BBQ Sandwich & Pork Flatbread. We’re reopening in March, so swing by and grab a jar (or two) to take your meals to the next level.

All we can say is wow, we are truly at a loss for words! Last Friday, we had the incredible honor of receiving the Industry of the Year Award from the Asheboro/Randolph Chamber of Commerce. What began as a small vision in 2004 has blossomed into something far greater than we ever imagined, and it's because of you - our amazing community, loyal guests, supportive business partners and our dedicated and passionate orchard family. As we just celebrated our 20th season, this recognition feels extra special. Thank you for allowing us to grow and share what we love with each of you. We are beyond blessed and forever grateful to call Randolph County our home.

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Building is temperature controlled, Lights in all units 24 x 7 access Thank you, Troop 508 for collecting over 680

Shout out to Wall 2 Wall Transfers for our new China House shirts!! Thank y’all so much! They did such an amazing job!!!

The propane tank is full and we’re ready! Rain, snow, or shine, we’re here to fill your propane tanks and RVs. Come see us! Swaim Electric , Open 8-6, located beside the Climax Post Office. 1317 NC-62 E, Climax, NC 27233 336-685-9722

LOFLIN FUNERAL

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