Voice Magazine 0417 by Voice Magazine For Women

free! APRIL 2017

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vibrant â&#x20AC;˘ vocal â&#x20AC;˘ vivacious

Nurture

per Tina M. Cam

Carol G. Transou

Empower

Mary Margare t Denton

Brenda Barnicki

Susan Reid

Tribute to Women Recipients Muriel Kagan Zager

CeeGee McCord g Ruth Moseley Kin

Transform

Melody Trimble

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Welcome Millie Henderson, our new Nurse Practitioner!

Tribute t o Women Thursday, April 27 6 p.m. Bristol Train Station

Nurt ure, Empower, &Transform

Celebrate the accomplishments of women who our community with dinner, awards, and a raffle drawing. Tickets are $125 each and can be purchased by calling YWCA Bristol at 423.968.9444. WOOD FIRED PIZZA. BURGERS. DRINKS. AND FUN.

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From the EDITOR

pril showers bring May flowers! Also the month of April is bringing us Easter this year. As a child growing up in Southwest Virginia, our family attending church on Easter was important as it was a time to show our faith and to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It was also the time that I climbed upon a chair at our kitchen table to color hen eggs. I still remember the smell of vinegar and seeing those color tablets being dropped into coffee cups. Dipping the boiled eggs very carefully in each coffee cup, I was amazed at the transformation. The fun continued with hiding the eggs and having the egg hunt. However, some of those eggs were so well hidden, they were found on the next mowing of the yard. It was fun! Voice Magazine knows about fun! Having fun along the way, is part of Voice Magazine’s mission statement. With our continued focus on bringing local articles and information, we are excited to welcome new additions to our group of contributing writers. Please help us welcome them either by emailing them or visiting them on Facebook letting them know how much you enjoy their articles! Their articles are fun, entertaining and informative. And our sister magazine, Modern Day Appalachian Woman…Appalachian Living continues to receive rave reviews! Thank you for positive responses and support! Do you know of a woman that fits the role of a Modern Day Appalachian Woman? Email editor@ voicemagazineforwomen.com with your submission. Would like to share information with others? Voice Magazine is looking for experts in coupon shopping, decorating, crafts, cooking, health, fashion, or topics of interest to women. Submit your article for consideration. Visit our website, voicemagazineforwomen.com for article submission guidelines, or call 423.926.9983, or email editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com Jan-Carol Publishing is growing too by offering another imprint for authors seeking a digital and an online venue. Geared to shorter manuscripts, this opens many opportunities for short stories to get e-published. Email your submissions to submissions@jancarolpublishing.com. Also, if you are an author seeking additional marketing, check out our blAwesome Marketing, blawesomemarketing. com. These marketing products are not just for JCP authors. For all you book lovers, join our book club. To request our e-newsletter offering recipes, latest happenings and updates, email office@jancarolpublishing.com. Be sure to ‘like’ Voice Magazine and Jan-Carol Publishing on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn! Join in the fun of the ‘giveaways’ and other happenings! We want to say ‘thank you’ for your continued support to Voice Magazine, Jan-Carol Publishing and our authors. Happy Easter! Thought of the Month: “A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman.” Author Melinda Gates Verse of the Month: “Let all that you do be done with love.” 1 Corinthians 16:14 (NKJV)

“every story needs a book”

voicemagazineforwomen.com • jancarolpublishing.com Serving Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia!

PUBLISHER Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc PO Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605 EDITOR Janie C Jessee, 423.502.6246 editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com publisher@jancarolpublishing.com APRIL CONTRIBUTING WRITERS April Hensley Ken Heath

Nancy Binder Pam Blair

Tammy Robinson Smith

OFFICE Brandon Goins - Office Assistant office@voicemagazineforwomen.com office@jancarolpublishing.com Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983 SALES Sally Dodson - Sales Director sally@voicemagazineforwomen.com Linda Levergood - Sales Associate linda@voicemagazineforwomen.com Kim Hedrick - Sales Associate kim@voicemagazineforwomen.com Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983 office@voicemagazineforwomen.com GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com MARKETING Tammy Robinson Smith - JCP Director of Communications communications@jancarolpublishing.com DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Staff JCP Internships Available

Janie C. Jessee, Editor

find us:

www.voicemagazineforwomen.com /voicemagazineforwomen @VoiceMagazineTN

4 | April 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 14, Issue 4) While every precaution has been taken to ensure accuracy of the published material, Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. / Voice Magazine cannot be held responsible for opinions or facts provided by its authors, advertisers or agencies. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without written permission. Agencies, Advertisers and other contributors will indemnify and hold the publisher harmless for any loss or expense resulting from claims or suits based upon contents of any advertisement, defamation, libel, right of privacy, plagiarism and/or copyright infringement. The views expressed in Voice Magazine for Women are not necessarily those of the publisher. © 2017 EDITORIAL MISSION: Voice Magazine for Women wants to provide a useful and complete reliable source of information for women and their families. We seek to celebrate women’s successes, and support their growth by defining and recognizing their needs and providing a concentration of resources for them. We want to be that “link” to all women.

17 — Donna Gayle Akers, Author of nine books including: Washington County and Washington County Revisited

Theories, causes and reasons abound for the definitive cause of the Civil War. However, author and Civil War enthusiast and reenactor Robert Salyer provides a provocative and often unexplored insight behind the war that tore apart a burgeoning, new country. Readers will appreciate Salyer's research and knowledge of the events that led to the near destruction of a nation.

An avid Civil War enthusiast since early childhood, author Robert Salyer currently resides in Washington County, Virginia in a Civil War era plantation that was lovingly restored by his family and that is listed on the National Historical Registry.

U.S. $22.95 • CAN $31.00

COPYRIGHT 2017 COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE FRONT COVER IMAGE: LIBRARY OF CONGRESS AND AMERICANCOLORIZING.COM AUTHOR PHOTO WAS TAKEN IN THE SUNKEN ROAD AT ANTIETAM BATTLEFIELD. AUTHOR PHOTO: AMY STILTNER SALYER JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

ROBERT M. SALYER

— Bud Phillips, noted Bristol, Virginia historian and author of more than ten books including: Between the States: Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia During the Civil War

— Anna Hartman, writer, Charleston, SC

“Kathleen M. Jacobs weaves a tale full of eerie suspense as Cole, the teller of the story, reveals to the reader some of the odd twists his life has taken and why those twists happened. Contemplate with Cole as he walks through cemeteries day after day. Could you do that? Read this book with an eye open for the unexpected.”

Rosacea Month 14

Saguaro Cactus: The Sentinel of the Desert

— Linda Hudson Hoagland, The Best Darn Secret

“A sensitive 13-year-old boy copes with his mother’s sudden death... A longer book might have allowed for more development of other characters, though, which would have served it well. That said, his thoughts are still enjoyable to read...” — Kirkus Reviews

Fashion

MARBLE TOWN

“Robert Salyer is a man with a vision and a desire to keep history alive. I have never met anyone more enthusiastic about preserving history, and specifically Civil War history, than Robert. I have no doubt that his book will be a success, as his passion for history and historical accuracy knows few bounds.”

THE MYTH OF VIRTUE

“Jacobs’s language and imagery are something to sink your teeth into. Her descriptions are perfectly crafted. Marble Town is a story of hope and healing and a young boy who faces what each of us faces: choosing between good and bad, between soaring and falling.”

Decorating: Small Spaces

KATHLEEN M. JACOBS

— Will Osborne, Author of Be Strong and of a Good Courage

“Salyer’s book reflects a prodigious amount of research and analysis and presents an excellent case for a multitude of causes for the Civil War, rather than only slavery. His discussion will convince the reader to broaden their interpretation of the war beyond what’s taught in school history books and gain a deeper appreciation for its lingering complex symbolism in history.”

THE MYTH OF VIRTUE Histories’ Lies of the Civil War

“A very well researched and common sense approach to the causes and effects of the American Civil War. Mr. Salyer has created a very informative and enjoyable read that should be on the bookshelf of every student and history buff.”

contents

April 2017 | Volume 14 | Issue 4

Kathleen M. Jacobs is the author of Honeysuckle Holiday, a YA novel set in the south in the 1960s. She divides her time between the two Virginias. She is currently working on her first children’s book. Visit her website at www.kathleenmjacobs.com and on Twitter: @KathleenMJacobs.

U.S. $10.95 • CAN $12.95

ROBERT M. SALYER

KATHLEEN M. JACOBS

April Hot Hunk Hunt!

Paul Johnson (News 5 WCYB) Each month Voice will “hide” a picture of a “Hot Hunk.” If you find him, fill out this form, mail it in, and you could win 2 tickets to Barter Theatre.

Congratulations to: Debra Miller Johnson City, TN

as the winner in the March Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

Jan-Carol Publishing

Easter Dinner

The March “Hot Hunk” was Kasey Marler.

Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone Number: Email:

Nancy Binder 16

Derby Day

Histories’ Lies of the Civil War

YWCA Tribute to Women Recipients

HOT HUNK LOCATION: Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?

New Releases Believe and Achieve Winner 18

Spiritually Speaking

Easter Egg Coloring

Flip this Issue!

Mail this submission form to: Voice Magazine P.O. Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605

Modern Day

APPALACHIAN WOMAN APPALACHIAN LIVING

VoiceMALE

or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is April 20, 2017. PLEASE, ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD

Ken Heath 13

As the selected winner, you must contact Voice Magazine for Women at 423-926-9983 within 90 days to claim and receive your prize. After 90 days, winning becomes null and void and the prize cannot be claimed.

Featuring

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Page

vibrant • vocal • vivacious

Nurture

Tina M. Camper

The YWCA Tribute to Women nominees are featured on our front cover. Photography by Hill Photography Service.

Carol G. Transou

Empower

Mary Margare t Denton

Brenda Barnicki

Susan Reid

Tribute to Women Recipients Muriel Kagan Zager

CeeGee McCord Ruth Moseley King

Transform

Melody Trimble

at RalphSmithAutoSalesDamascusVA voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2017 | 5

DECORATING

SMALL SPACES

Furniture

Color & Patterns

One of the biggest mistakes when decorating a small room is to fill the room with overstuffed or large furnishings. Smaller rooms and homes require smaller or more lightly scaled furniture. If you have a large, heavy piece of furniture that is absolutely fabulous, consider using it as a focal piece and then scaling down your other pieces. In any small space, it’s important to not to feel boxed in. Keep your furnishings low to give the eye a place to roam, and choose pieces with clean lines. Balance the room with a few verticals, like a calming piece of artwork or a narrow floor vase with tall reeds. Chairs and sofas without arms are perfect for small spaces because they appear more open and lightweight. Furnishings with exposed legs also help to visually add space to a small room. Consider smaller versions of necessary furnishings, like a loveseat instead of a sofa, or a full-size bed instead of a queen. Or choose furniture that can be tucked away when not needed, like an extendable dining table, folding chairs or nest of tables. Even in small rooms, be sure to define spaces. Use rugs and furniture placement to set up a conversation and other, definitive areas in main living spaces. When decorating a small room, incorporate open shelving. Closed shelving and storage will visually pull the walls forward making your room appear even smaller. Multipurpose pieces work well in small spaces. For example, an ottoman with built-in storage provides a place to stash blankets and books, yet also makes a compact footrest. Source: sprucehome.com

Source: decor01.xsl.pt/decorating-small-spaces.html

6 | April 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Dark colors can make even large rooms appear smaller. The lighter the shade is, the more open your space will appear. In small room design, use darker or bolder colors as accent colors only. Stripes can work well in a small space because they can be used to create the illusion of height or length. Consider going monochromatic. Paint your walls and trim the same color. Choose the same color or one shade lighter for your Source: housebeautiful.com ceiling. Use texture or varying shades of the same color to add contrast and depth to your space. When decorating a small room, use the darker or bolder colors in your pallet to ground your space, keeping them at eye level or below. This will allow your eye—and your ceiling—to soar, making the room appear larger. One idea for decorating a small room is to color your feature wall then stick with neutrals elsewhere. Choosing one element that really stands out will help your space feel alive without feeling cramped. When using patterns in a small space, stick with the ratio of 2:1—two small-scaled patterns or textures with one sparsely used bold pattern to add interest and pop.

Décor

Hang curtains from the ceiling and not the top of the window frame. This will create the illusion of height and depth. If you prefer blinds, install them within the window frame instead of on top of the frame. Choose decor items made from glass, mirrors or other reflective or transparent surfaces to reflect light and appear weightless in your space. Source: Pinterest via bhg.com Avoid clutter at all costs. Things build up quickly in a small space. When decorating a small room, make every element count. Good lighting is very important in any space, but becomes essential in small room design. Natural light and windows automatically add a feeling of lightness and space to a room, so let it in. Layer your interior lighting for the best effect.

New Easter Outfit? M

Rainbow colors! Alice + Olivia Shannon skirt Paul Smith sandals

any of us can remember our parents dressing us up in new clothes every Easter so we could parade around the neighborhood in our finest. It was a fun tradition to look forward to whether we went to church or not. But how did that start? In the early days of Christianity, newly baptized Christians wore white linen robes at Easter to symbolize rebirth and new life. But it was not until 300 A.D. that wearing new clothes became an official decree, as the Roman emperor Constantine declared that his court must wear the finest new clothing on Easter. Eventually, the tradition came to mark the end of Lent, when after wearing weeks of the same clothes, worshipers discarded the old frocks for new ones. After the devastation of the Civil War, churches saw Easter as a source of hope for Americans. Easter was called “The Sunday of Joy,” and women traded the dark colors of mourning for the happier colors of spring. Although we associate wearing new clothes in spring with the Easter holiday, the tradition dates back to ancient times. Pagan worshipers celebrated the vernal equinox Romantic details with a festival in honor of Ostera, the Germanic Goddess of Spring, and believed that Eliza J Belted Chiffon Maxi wearing new clothes brought good luck. In the 16th Century during the Tudor reign, it was believed that unless a person wore new garments at Easter, moths would eat the old ones, and evil crows would nest around their homes. It’s interesting to see where the tradition of wearing new clothes on Easter began, and in keeping the tradition, it is a perfect time to go shopping for that Easter outfit!

The color pink is a must this season! Hazel & Olve “Never-ending Floral Dress” Flowing dress Free People “All I Got Maxi Dress”

Voice Magazine recognizes the

Reader of the Month

Christina Jones

From: Johnson City, TN • Occupation: Sales Associate I feel empowered when: I get up in the morning and go to work at a job that empowers me to do what I can to help others. The last book I read was: “Your Soul Contract Decoded: Discovering the Spiritual Map of Your Life with Numerology.”

I’m obsessed with: Coming up with new ideas, experimenting and making new things. If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be: Dublin, Ireland. The top item on my bucket list is: To go deep sea diving.

If you are interested in being our Reader of the Month, email editor@voicemagazineforwomen.com for details.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2017 | 7

Derby Day

S the “working poor” to help them get the specialized spine care pine Health Foundation (SHF) is dedicated to advocating for

they need to get past the pain and back to life. Untreated spinal issues can lead to depression, loss of employment, pain medication addiction issues and even suicide. SHF is making significant progress in the lives of those they help by giving them the gift of hope and an opportunity to regain their health and life. Carol Conduff, Executive Director, founded the Spine Health Foundation in 2010. Her passion for helping others with spinal issues grew out of her own personal experience. After having corrective spine surgery in February 2010, the concept of the Spine Health Foundation took hold just a few months later.

“In 2010, when I founded The Spine Health Foundation (SHF), I envisioned an organization working in unison with the region’s best spine specialists and medical providers to make a powerful impact in the lives of our recipients, just by giving them access to specialized spine care. What I’ve experienced in the last 6 years has greatly exceeded my expectations. I have seen not only our recipients heal, but families heal. Our recipients are discovering a renewed sense of life because they are no longer living with constant, chronic pain and they are self-sufficient, again.” The amazing success stories that Ms. Conduff has witnessed reflects the tremendous progress of the foundation. “We are making so much progress due to the support of our loyal and generous contributors, dedicated medical providers and volunteers. The life lessons and wisdom I have gleaned from working with individuals who suffer with extreme spine issues has humbled and enlightened me beyond words.” A few fast facts: 1. Back pain is the leading cause of disability costing the U.S. over $230B in lost wages, disability claims and direct medical costs; 2. 8 out of 10 people will experience back pain during their lives; 3. Back pain is the most common reason for lost work days. Be a part of the solution and join us at the annual fundraiser, Derby Day on May 6, 2017. (See their ad on the next page.) “Thank you for helping people Get Back to Life!”

WE WATERPROOF BASEMENTS!

4-30-17.

8 | April 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Easter Dinner Roast Leg of Lamb Herbaceous with Rosemary Grilled Pork This leg of lamb is marinated over- Tenderloin night with fresh rosemary, garlic, mustard, honey and lemon zest. • 1/4 cup honey • 2 tablespoons prepared Dijon-style mustard • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1 teaspoon lemon zest • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 5 pounds whole leg of lamb • 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt Instructions 1. In a small bowl, combine the honey, mustard, rosemary, ground black pepper, lemon zest and garlic. Mix well and apply to the lamb. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator overnight. 2. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230 degrees C). 3. Place lamb on a rack in a roasting pan and sprinkle with salt to taste. 4. Bake at 450 degrees F (230 degrees C) for 20 minutes, then reduce heat to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and roast for 55 to 60 more minutes for medium rare.The internal temperature should be at least 145 degrees F (63 degrees C) when taken with a meat thermometer. Let the roast rest for about 10 minutes before carving. Recipe By: JMASS allrecipes.com

•

3 tablespoons chopped fresh chives • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary • 1 teaspoon black pepper • 1 (1-pound) pork tenderloin, trimmed • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt • Cooking spray Instructions 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. 2. Combine first 6 ingredients in a large zip-top plastic bag. Add pork to bag, turning to coat well. Let stand at room temperature for 20 minutes. 3. Remove pork from bag, and discard marinade. Sprinkle pork evenly with kosher salt. Place pork on grill rack coated with cooking spray, and grill 20 minutes or until a thermometer registers 140°. Remove pork from grill; let stand 5 minutes.Thinly slice.

Lemon-Caper Parmesan Potato Salad Bites • • • • •

12 small red potatoes, halved (about 1 1/4 pounds) 2 teaspoons olive oil 1/2 cup light sour cream 2 tablespoons minced fresh chives, divided 2 tablespoons butter, melted

10 | April 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

•

2 tablespoons finely chopped drained capers • 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 450°. 2. Combine potatoes and oil; toss to coat. Arrange potatoes, cut sides down, in a single layer on a parchment paper–lined baking sheet. Bake at 450° for 20 minutes. Turn potatoes; bake 10 minutes. Remove and cool 20 minutes. 3. Preheat broiler to high. 4. Using a paring knife, carefully cut a circle in the cut side of potatoes. Using a melon baller or small spoon, remove pulp from potato, leaving a thin shell. Combine pulp, sour cream, 1 tablespoon chives, and next 5 ingredients (through pepper). Evenly fill potato shells with filling; sprinkle with cheese and remaining 1 tablespoon chives. 5. Broil potatoes for 2 minutes or until cheese is lightly browned.

Israeli Carrots • •

• • • • • • •

2 quarts water 1 pound baby carrots, trimmed and halved lengthwise 1 garlic clove, chopped 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions 1. Bring 2 quarts of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add carrots; cook 3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Drain. 2. Place garlic in a food processor; pulse 3 times or until finely chopped. Add cilantro; pulse 3 times or until combined. Add dill and remaining ingredients; pulse 3 times or until well combined. Spoon dill mixture over carrots; toss gently to coat. Serve warm or at room temperature. cookinglight.com

Deviled Eggs • • • • • • •

6 eggs 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 teaspoon white vinegar 1 teaspoon yellow mustard 1/8 teaspoon salt Freshly ground black pepper Garnish: Smoked Spanish paprika • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne • Garnish: chopped fresh chives Instructions 1. Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan and cover with enough water that there’s 1 1/2 inches of water above the eggs. Heat on high until water begins to boil, then cover, turn the heat to low, and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat and leave covered for 14 minutes, then rinse under cold water continuously for 1 minute. 2. Crack egg shells and carefully peel under cool running water. Gently dry with paper towels. Slice the eggs in half lengthwise, removing yolks to a medium bowl, and placing the whites on a serving platter. Mash the yolks into a fine crumble using a fork. Add mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper, and mix well.

Tribute to Women

ribute to Women has been celebrating Tri-Cities female leaders since 1992. To date, more than 167 women have been honored and more than $2 million has been raised to support the mission of YWCA Bristol. For the past 25 years, the categories have included Art, Business, Education and Volunteerism/Community Service. For the 2017 awards, the categories have changed to Nurture, Empower and Transform. These new categories align closely with the mission of the YWCA, eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. The Nurture category honors a woman who excels in a position or role through which her abilities as a leader and mentor have resulted in the flourishing and accomplishments of her organization, team, students or community. She has a long-lasting commitment to a cause, place or group of people who benefit from her inspiration and efforts, which has been renewed or is thriving due to her particular influence. The Empower category celebrates a woman who is a groundbreaking individual who has blazed a new trail in her field or company. She has taken on challenging assignments and created new opportunities for herself, other women and/or underserved groups. While setting and achieving consistently high standards of professional success for herself, she also fosters a strong sense of volunteerism and public service in those around her. The Transform category honors women who spark change through inspiration and improvement of a community or organization. Through exemplary leadership and vision, she is a catalyst, a creative influencer who others can follow. Nominations poured in from across the region, full of deserving women with long lists of accomplishments. Every year YWCA Bristol selects out-of-state judges to review each nomination form and select three recipients for each category. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s field was extremely competitive and YWCA Bristol is proud to announce the 2017 class of Tribute to Women recipients.

In the Nurture category:

per Tina M. Cam

Mary Margaret Denton

Carol G. Transou

In the Empower category:

Brenda Barnicki

Susan Reid

Muriel Kagan Zager

In the Transform category:

Ruth Moseley King

CeeGee McCord

Melody Trimble

The recipients will receive their Tribute to Women statues at the banquet on April 27 at Bristol Train Station. Tickets are $125 each and can be purchased by calling YWCA Bristol at 423.968.9444 or by visiting ywcabristol.org. All proceeds benefit the programs of YWCA Bristol. (Photos by Hill Photography Service)

voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2017 | 11

Easter Egg Coloring! I

n many cultures around the world, the egg is a symbol of new life, fertility and rebirth. For thousands of years, Iranians and others have decorated eggs on Nowruz, the Iranian New Year that falls on the spring equinox. For Christians, the Easter egg is symbolic of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. As a child, part our Easter holiday tradition was to ‘color’ hen/or duck eggs. The large duck egg was the lucky egg for the traditional Easter egg hunt. It meant a special prize for finding the lucky egg and for finding the most of the hidden Easter eggs! Here are some ways to color your Easter Eggs: What you need: • Hard-boiled eggs • Paper towel or newspaper • Bowl or cup deep enough to completely submerge an egg • Tongs, egg dipper, or slotted spoon • ½ cup boiling water • 1 teaspoon white vinegar • Liquid food coloring (about 20 drops per color) • Protect your work area with paper towels or newspaper. Mix 1 teaspoon of vinegar and 20 drops of food coloring (use more to intensify color) in 1 cup of hot water in a heatproof bowl, cup, or jar deep enough to let you submerge an egg completely. To create different tints, vary the dipping time. Place egg on spoon and dunk, turning

12 | April 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

occasionally so both sides get color. Keep in liquid for up to 5 minutes, leave in longer for a darker hue. Carefully remove the egg and set aside to dry. Creative Ideas: • Before dyeing your eggs, try wrapping them in rubber bands. The rubber bands will create lighter stripes across your egg. Just make sure you don’t make the rubber bands too tight–you don’t want to break the egg! • Wrap eggs in electrical tape before dyeing them. You can make cute stripe and plaid patterns by using different widths of tape to wrap up the egg. Try experimenting with multiple dyes to create beautiful contrasts of color. • Use a white crayon to draw or other crayons to color on the eggs. New twist on egg decorating is using shaving cream: Here’s what you do: 1. Get some cheap white shaving cream, and spread out on a cookie sheet. 2. Dribble food coloring across the surface. 3. Use a toothpick to swirl the colors around in the shaving cream. 4. Take your dried, and cooled hard-boiled egg, and roll it around in the cream Sources: Indiefixx.com, Firstpalette.com, Diyeggcoloring.com

Voicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

rowing up in rural Southwest Virginia, there were three times a year we kids absolutely HAD to be in church. While I know it’s something I probably needed much more, these three times were not to be missed as a kid: Christmas, with the little brown paper bag filled with hard candy and a piece of fruit, Vacation Bible School with nightly snacks like Rice Krispy Treats that we’d only get on very special occasions, and Easter. On Easter Sunday, us kids would be dressed in new clothes and dared to get them dirty! However, it didn’t keep us from knocking each other over to grab the colorful plastic eggs that held a pirate’s bounty of candy. Most were loaded with jelly beans, but every now and then, we’d find one with chocolate—the golden ticket! Now, I’d be remiss if I didn’t introduce you, at this point, to my hound Slicky, a brindle bulldog mix my grandfather had taken me to pick out of the litter. I named him for the texture of his silky soft fur, which made sense as a six-year-old. Slicky was a ball-playing fool. His life centered on someone tossing him an old tennis ball he carried around with him. Our preacher had met Slicky as sometimes he would wander into the sanctuary on hot summer nights and drop the ball at the preacher’s feet. However, on Easter Sunday, the preacher wasn’t thinking about Slicky. Volunteers had slipped out during the service to hide the eggs for us kids. It was a time-honored tradition. So when the service was over, we all piled out of the church like a herd of elephants. However, our search quickly turned out to be for naught. Kid after kid searched tall grass, forsythia bushes, and underneath the church sign, without finding a thing. Seems that while we kids were praying for a hasty exit, my dog had rounded up every last orb, and without somebody to toss them for him to fetch, he grew impatient and started chewing. So, that Easter Sunday, the kids left empty-handed. The preacher had a porch full of chewed plastic. And me? I had a brindle bulldog full of jelly beans. Let’s just say my dad wasn’t happy. Our yard was “colorfully decorated” for several days and Slicky wasn’t invited back for the Christmas play that year.

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Ken Heath is a Marion, VA hometown boy who expresses his passions in his writings and through music. After his ‘real job’, Ken is the owner of the legendary Cliffside Roadhouse, doggie dad to two yellow labs with his wonderful wife, and a professional mobile DJ with Bow Tie Pro Music and Sound. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at #kenheath. 4-30-17.

“Virginia's Most Awarded DJ Service”

(276) 759-1102 | www.kenheath.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2017 | 13

April – National Rosacea Awareness Month T

he National Rosacea Society (NRS) designates April as Rosacea Awareness Month to educate the public on the impact of this chronic and widespread facial disorder now estimated to affect more than 16 million Americans. “The earliest signs of rosacea are often overlooked because people assume they are temporary and will go away,” said Dr. John Wolf, chairman of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine. “Unfortunately, without medical treatment the effects of rosacea often persist and become increasingly severe.” Rosacea can vary substantially from one individual to another, and in most cases some rather than all of the potential signs and symptoms appear.

What is Rosacea?

Prominent Blood Vessels

Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder which affects the central facial area. Overtime the disorder may also display prominent blood vessels, swelling or skin eruptions similar to acne.

Top Ten Triggers for Rosacea:

Primary Signs of Rosacea

• Flushing—Many people with rosacea have a history of frequent blushing or flushing. This facial redness may come and go, and is often the earliest sign of the disorder. • Persistent Redness—Persistent facial redness is the most common individual sign of rosacea, and may resemble a blush or sunburn that does not go away. • Bumps and Pimples—Small red solid bumps or pus-filled pimples often develop. While these may resemble acne, blackheads are absent and burning or stinging may occur.

• Sun exposure • Emotional stress • Hot weather • Wind • Heavy exercise • Alcohol consumption • Hot baths • Cold weather • Spicy foods • Humidity • Indoor heat See a dermatologist for an evaluation and diagnosis. Source rosacea.org

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April is...

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April is IBS Awareness Month

f you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you are not alone—IBS is common with prevalence estimated at 10% to 15%. Yet many people remain undiagnosed and unaware that their symptoms indicate a medically recognized disorder. There is no cure, yet, but there are ways to manage though not always simple or straight forward. It may take some detective work by you and your doctor before you find what works best. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic and unpredictable condition. Symptoms that change over time and are hard to talk about add to the challenge of living with it. IBS affects not only each of us who suffers, but also many others— family, friends, employers, students, teachers, patients, doctors, customers, constituents—everyone whose lives intersect with our own.

Here are some tips to help you and those close to you live with IBS. • Don’t spend time and worry about what your symptoms may or may not mean. Start by getting a definite diagnosis from your doctor. • Take an active role in your own health care. Learn all you can about IBS so you understand the nature of the disorder and different management and treatment options.

• Investigate non-medication treatments that may help reduce symptoms, like diet, relaxation training, or hypnosis. • If conventional medical therapies prove unsuccessful or have unwanted side effects, many people choose to pursue complementary or alternative therapies (CAM). • Herbal therapy—Herbal therapies have been used for a variety of disorders since ancient times. • Acupuncture—Acupuncture has its roots in ancient Chinese medicine but has become popular worldwide for many ailments. Also, using electrical stimuli with the acupuncture needles maybe used to increase the effect (electro-acupuncture). • Alteration of the intestinal flora— Probiotics are substances or organisms that contribute to the balance of bacteria in the intestines. • Hypnotherapy—Hypnotherapy has been shown to be effective for IBS in several clinical trials. Hypnosis usually requires weekly individual sessions over several months, but has been tried in groups and by self-instruction as well. • Movement therapy and meditation—No studies on functional dyspepsia or IBS are available for specific movement therapies such as yoga or tai chi. It has been shown, however, that relaxation response meditation aids symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence, and diarrhea. • It is important that CAM practitioners, primary care doctors, and gastroenterologists work together with their patients to find the appropriate treatment or combination of treatments from the vast array of conventional and alternative options available.

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Saguaro Cactus The Sentinel of the Desert Article and Photographs by Nancy Binder

aguaro National Park is a tranquil “oasis” in the heart of the busy, growing Tucson, Arizona area. The park is divided into two units, Saguaro East-Rincon Mountain District and Saguaro West-Tucson Mountain District. Each unit is being encroached upon by housing developments. Fortunately the parks will preserve this beautiful landscape. This year we first visited the East-Rincon Mountain District. On the eight-mile, one-way loop drive, we spent several hours stopping at every overlook to read the signs and admire the plants and views. There are several picnic areas and it is enjoyable to have lunch there, savoring the quiet and solitude. The saguaro (pronounced sah-war-oh) cactus grows very slowly. It takes about 15 years for one to grow from seed to a foot tall. They have straight trunks until they are about 75 years old and then they sprout “branches” or “arms.” The plant lives about 150 years if not damaged by wind, lightening or disease and grow to a height of about 40 feet. The “trunk” has a multiple pole-like internal structure covered in a pliable, pleated outer layer. The “pleats” allow the trunk to expand to store precious water. Many birds take refuge in the saguaro. Woodpeckers bore holes in the cactus, making nests inside. Other birds such as owls and cactus wrens will make use of abandoned woodpecker nests. We read that it can be as much as 15 degrees cooler inside the cactus on a hot summer day. The saguaro flowers only bloom at night and last into the next day. They are pollinated by bats at night and bees and birds during the day. The fruit produces as many as 2,000 tiny seeds. Prickly pear cacti are abundant in the park. Many times you will see bits of paper, keys, other shiny objects and odds and ends that have been brought to dens under the prickly pear cactus by pack rats. Native Americans and other persons dwelling in the desert eat the fruit of prickly pear. In stores, the fruit is sold continued on next page

16 | April 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

under the name of “tuna” in the produce department. The pads are also eaten and are sold under the name “nopales” and are a vegetable. When we reached the Desert Ecology Trail, we walked this short, flat trail loop. It is handicap-accessible. There are many informative signs along the way and lots of benches to rest on or sit and absorb the beauty around you. It is a “must-see” stop. Late in the afternoon while at an overlook we spotted three javelinas (pronounced have-a-lean-a). While they look like pigs, they are actually peccaries. They were far away but exciting to see nonetheless. Most of the animals that inhabit the park are nocturnal such as the bobcat, ring-tail cat and kangaroo rats. Mountain lions and black bears inhabit the park but are rarely seen. As we have only visited in the winter, we have never seen a snake or Gila monster but at other times, you need to keep a watchful eye out for them. On another day we packed a lunch and entered Saguaro National Park—West Unit via Gates Pass Road and Kinney Road through Tucson Mountain Park. This is a beautiful way to reach the park. We drove slowly into the mountains on a steep, winding road admiring the views, beautiful homes and plants until we reached the National Park entrance. At the visitor’s center, do NOT miss watching the orientation film and stay until the very end after the credits. You will be rewarded for doing so. The drive here is shorter unless you go off onto the high clearance vehicle road, which we did not. Much of the loop drive is on a dirt road but it has always been well-groomed. There are a number of different cholla (pronounced choy-ah) here, my favorite is the teddy bear cholla which looks soft but is not pleasant if you get one of the spines stuck in your skin. Another favorite desert plant is fish hook barrel cactus. It is easy to see where it gets its name. Their yellow fruits add color to the desert landscape. There are a number of hiking trails available. Before you go hiking, know your limits, wear hiking boots and take lots of water. The heat and lack of humidity is deceiving. Be sure to drink before you are thirsty. We ate our lunch at the remote picnic area, Ez-Kim-In-Zin, where the nicely spaced picnic sites afford some privacy. There were only two other spots occupied. What a marvelous picnicking experience! Life doesn’t get much better than that.

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Nancy Binder is a retired application software developer turned freelance writer combining her love of travel with her desire to share her experiences. She is passionate about exploring the outdoors and has been “bitten by the African safari bug”, now her favorite travel destination. Contact her with comments or travel questions at nancybinder@msn.com.

Prickly pear cactus fruit

Javelina

Pictured above is a barrel cactus with fruit and a curved-bill thrasher bird atop. voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2017 | 17

ing:

War. However, a provocative geoning, new he events that

ZING.COM TLEFIELD.

— April Hensley, Author and Gardening Expert

Written by Connie Clark-Thompson

The poverty of our senses both physical and spiritual is in ourselves not our surroundings. No matter where you call home, the heavens by night or day are as beautiful over your home as another. The lifestyle that we become immersed in decay our senses and cheat us of many treasures beyond price. The love of nature and God’s Word has taught me there are always new discoveries on the path I may have walked several times, or the verse I have read a dozen times. I never know what sense will be delighted or sharpened. Connie Clark-Thompson’s passion and love of gardening and note keeping over the years is the basis of this study. She has learned from others, and through trial and error. We must pass along not only those wonderful plants but also our knowledge for future gardeners and farmers. If you are a gardener you know that an afternoon could easily slip by in conversation about a rose or a new veggie that has been discovered. Take time to share and pass along! You may contact the author at daintydirtdgm@aol.com.

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Connie Clark-Thompson

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Histories’ Lies of the Civil War

ROBERT M. SALYER

Written by Kathleen M. Jacobs

Believe and Achieve Novel Award Winner Announced! Jan-Carol Publishing is a happy to announce the 2016/17 Winner of the Believe and Achieve Book Contract Award! Congratulations to Sylvia Sinclair, author of Fledermama’s Son. Sylvia Sinclair is a first generation American on her father’s side, who came from Szatmar, Hungary. Her mother was born of immigrant parents from Austria and Hungary. Sylvia was born in Los Angeles, California after World War II, one of the first Baby Boomers. She earned a degree in Chemistry and in Business, and a Teaching Certificate. Living in Bay Minette, Alabama, Sylvia is a member of the Fairhope Writers Forum and Alabama Writers Conclave. We congratulate her!

KATHLEEN M. JACOBS

Marble Town

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is a small independent publishing press with a motivated force of authors. Mountain Girl Press; Little Creek Books, Express Editions; DigiStyle and RoseHeart Publishing are all imprints of Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.

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MARBLE TOWN

Marble Town tells the story of thirteen-year-old Cole Atwater whose mother was killed in an automobile accident when he was ten. Cole questions whether or not he will follow in the destructive footsteps of his best friend, cling to his childhood sweetheart, become further distant from his grieving father, or trust himself. Through mysterious clues left throughout the historic cemetery his mother tended, the story becomes one of hope, healing, and redemption. Kathleen M. Jacobs is the author of Honeysuckle Holiday, a YA novel set in the south in the 1960s. She divides her time between the two Virginias. She is currently working on her first children’s book. Visit her website at www.kathleenmjacobs.com and on Twitter: @KathleenMJacobs.

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Animals work from a silent world without words, yet in their own way, using actions, visual expressions and body language, they are able to blend and communicate among their own world and with the verbal world of man. This collection of stories and photographs explores the silent world of animals through the author’s personal experiences and a lifetime of living with a variety of domestic, wild and exotic animals.

Easter Lilies

Written by Jenn Sadai Sam Tilson is a struggling showgirl who’s always relied on her womanly charm and sex appeal to survive. Swept off her feet by a Spanish stud, she thinks she’s finally met the man who will save her. It’s not until she’s under gunfire and running from the law that she realizes, only she can save herself.

A Short-Story Collection by Various Authors

Easter Lillies

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From the Fence: Gardening with God One Sense at a Time, Friday and Saturday April 14–15 2017, 9:30 am–6 pm, Mid-Atlantic Garden Faire, Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, Abingdon, VA

Christmas Blooms, Saturday, April 1, 2017, 9 am–3 pm, Book Signing, Greendale Buddies Spring Bazaar, 13092 McGuffie Road, Abingdon, VA

Thursday, April 20, 2017, 6 pm to 8 pm, Reading, Tazewell Public Library on Main Street, Poetry Open Mic Night, Tazewell, VA

Tuesday, April 4, 2017, 11 am–1 pm, Reading, Reminiscent Writers, King Building, Southwest Virginia Community College, Richlands, VA

Saturday, April 22, 2017, 10 am–4 pm, Book Signing, Head 2 Toe Women’s Expo, Kingsport Civic Auditorium, 1550 Fort Henry Drive, Kingsport, TN

Wednesday, April 5, 2017, 9 am–10:30 am, Teaching, College for Older Adults, VHCC Campus, Higher Ed Building, Abingdon, VA

Tuesday, April 25, 2017, 3 pm–6 pm, Book Signing, Abingdon Farmers Market, Remsburg Drive, Abingdon, VA Wednesday, April 26, 2017, 9 am–10:30 am, Teaching, College for Older Adults, VHCC Campus, Higher Ed Building, Abingdon, VA

Saturday, April 8, 2017, 10 am–4 pm, Book Signing, Appalachian Festival, Bluefield College, 3000 College Drive, Bluefield, VA

Wednesday, April 26, 2017, 2 pm–3 pm, Serving as Humanities Degree Advisory Board Member, Bluefield State College, Basic Sciences Building, Room 111, Bluefield, WV

Saturday April 22, 2017, 10 am–6 pm, Head 2 Toe Women’s Expo, Book Signing Jan-Carol Publishing, Authors Table, Kingsport Civic Auditorium, Kingsport, TN

Thursday, April 10, 2017, 7 pm–9 pm, Reading, Celebration for the release of 24th Edition of the Bluestone Review, Bluefield College, 3000 College Drive, Bluefield, VA

Saturday April 29, 2017 10 am–4 pm, Exchange Place Spring Garden Fair, Exchange Place Living History Farm, Kingsport, TN

Tuesday, April 11, 2017, 1 pm to 3 pm, Appalachian Heritage Writers Symposium Planning Committee Meeting, King Building, Southwest Virginia Community College, Richlands, VA

Diane Trott

Cherokee Inc. The Case of the Reprobate Raven, Saturday, April 22, 2017, 10 am–4 pm, Book Signing, Head 2 Toe, Jan-Carol Publishing Authors Table, Kingsport Civic Center, Kingsport, TN

D. L. Luke

Adirondacks Artemis, Thursday, April 6, 2017, Lake Placid Public Library, 5 pm, presentation on Governor Cuomo’s Gateway to the Adirondacks April 10, Crandall Public Library, Glens Falls, NY, 6:30 p.m. same presentation ties into Adirondacks Artemis

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The Pink Irish Rose; Thorns of the Pink Irish Rose; God’s Plan for Planet Earth Saturday, April 22, 2017, 9 am–5 pm, Book Signing, Head to Toe Women’s Expo 2017, Kingsport Civic Auditorium, Kingsport, TN

Linda Hudson Hoagland

Snooping Can Be Helpful – Sometimes; Onward & Upward; Missing Sammy; Snooping Can Be Doggone Deadly; Snooping Can Be Devious; Snooping Can Be Contagious; Snooping Can Be Dangerous; The Best Darn Secret; and anthologies Broken Petals and

Wednesday, April 12, 2017, 9 am–10:30 am, Teaching, College for Older Adults, VHCC Campus, Higher Ed Building, Abingdon, VA Thursday, April 13, 2017, 6 pm–8 pm, Book Signing, Local Author Festival, Buchanan County Public Library, 1185 Poe Town Street, Grundy, VA

Tuesday, April 18, 2017, 1 pm–3 pm, Appalachian Authors Guild Board Meeting, Washington County Public Library, Abingdon, VA Wednesday, April 19, 2017, 9 am–10:30 am, Teaching, College for Older Adults, VHCC Campus, Higher Ed Building, Abingdon, VA Wednesday, April 19, 2017, 4 pm–8 pm, Served as Judge, Agora: A Celebration of Creative Expression, Bluefield State College, Student Center, Bluefield, WV

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A Sweet and Successful Error By Leslie Snyder

“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!” Psalm 34:8 (NKJV)

uth Graves Wakefield is credited with inventing my favorite comfort food of all time, the chocolate chip cookie. The story goes that she and her husband purchased a toll house that had been built in 1709 for the purpose of housing weary travelers. In the 1930’s, they built on to the house and began serving travelers at the Toll House Inn, where Ruth’s incredible desserts were well-known. One day, while making Butter Drop Dough cookies she realized she was out of one critical ingredient, baker’s chocolate. Whether she made the next decision out of necessity or ingenuity we may never know, but she made the now-famous decision to chop up a bar of semisweet chocolate and drop it into the batter thinking the chocolate would melt into the rest of the cookie. Fortunately for us, the chocolate didn’t melt. Instead, it held its shape but with a wonderful creamy texture. Voila! The chocolate chip cookie was created. The truth is, many of the world’s best inventions started out as a mistake. What turned these mistakes into successes? Much can be attributed to the attitude, perseverance, and creativity of the person behind it all. Dale Carnegie once said, “The successful man will profit from his mistakes and try again in a different way,” which is exactly what Ruth Graves Wakefield did. She later began a professional partnership with Andrew Nestle, the candy maker who agreed to place her recipe for Toll House Cookies on the back of Nestle semi-sweet chocolate. And, as they say, the rest is history. Following Christ is often a series of sweet and successful errors. Some of these errors will seem more bitter than sweet, but if we can understand that we are on a journey with Jesus, following closely to Him and reaching for the dream He has placed in our hearts, then we are right where we belong. Yes, we might make a mistake or two along the way, but I believe the old adage is true, “It’s better to have tried and failed than to never have tried at all.” Psalm 34:8 reads, “Taste and see that the LORD is good;” Maybe today it’s time to take a risk and try something new; begin to seek the dream God has placed in your heart.

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Easter evokes memories of egg decorating, Easter baskets, chocolate bunnies, local church services, family gatherings, parades, and the meaning of the Easter Lily. Its beautiful trumpet-shaped blossoms symbolize purity, hope, and life, the spiritual essence of Easter and all the promises of spring. Lilies are mostly given along with Easter flowers. Lilies are sometimes affectionately called the “whiterobed apostles of hope.” They are rumored to be found growing in the Garden of Gethsemane after Christ’s atonement was performed there. Gracing millions of homes and churches, the flowers embody joy, hope and life. The lily serves as a beautiful reminder that Easter is a time for rejoicing and celebrating.

Easter Lillies

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Wildflowers

There are literally hundreds of varieties of wildflowers in the southern Appalachian Mountains. Blooming begins in March and continues into late October and early November. 24,000 sq ft. ofofShopping Space! AppalaTo see photos numerous 28356 spring Hawthorne Dr | Meadowview, VA chian wildflowers, arranged (276) 944-3665 by color, to hopefully make it Just off Route onlyto a few miles a eastflower of Abingdon easier for 11, you find you are trying to ID, go to www.pbase. com. It’s a great resource if you are looking for a particular wildflower to identify. Source: Rich Stevenson on www.pbase.com

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2017 | 23

SPRING TONICS–

Footpath for the People The Appalachian Trail is a 2,180+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant lands of the Appalachian Mountains. Conceived in 1921, built by private citizens, and completed in 1937, today the trail is managed by the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, numerous state agencies and thousands of volunteers. (Source: www.nps.gov)

Cleaning for the Blood

Sanguinaria Canadensis

The bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), an early spring ephemeral wildflower native to the woodlands of Eastern North America, is blooming in our woodland garden which means spring has officially sprung. The blooming of this dainty white flower (named for its fleshy root whose sap runs thick and red like blood) signals that the Virtue of the Land is rising from its winter sleep. This also means it’s the proper time to prepare and take our annual spring tonic.

High Blood, Low Blood, Thick Blood, Thin Blood

No, it’s not a lost book by Dr. Seuss. To know a bit about the history and lore that surrounds spring tonics you need to know a bit about the Appalachian folk beliefs surrounding blood. There are four states that blood can exist in which are arranged into two sets of extremes: high and low blood, and thick and thin blood. The healthy person has blood that is balanced between these 4 states. High blood has very little to do with the modern concepts of high blood pressure and hypertension. It can be thought of as high blood volume which results in symptoms like headaches, nosebleeds, dizziness, feeling “flushed”, fainting, rapid pulse and nausea. By contrast, low blood is a low volume of blood or blood that lacks vitality. Symptoms of low blood are fatigue, dizziness, pale complexion and listlessness. Thick blood is thought to be due to the presence of toxins and waste in the blood which makes it more viscous; this is viewed to be a source of sickness if left untreated. Heat intolerance, obesity and sluggishness are symptoms of thick blood. A person who is cold-natured, frail, and slow to heal is thought to have thin blood, which is watery and lacks vital properties.

Spring Tonics

The reason for taking a blood tonic in the spring is to clean out any impurities that accumulated during the winter and help the sluggish blood rise like sap in trees in preparation for the hard work to be done in the growing season. There are regional variations on the prescribed healing herbs and method of taking them; anytime you’re talking about folk beliefs, especially in such a large geographic area as the Appalachian Mountains, that’s to be expected. Healers, root doctors and herb wives developed their own recipes which could be a simple ingredient or a complex blend of roots and herbs. A proper tonic contains herbs that purify the blood, thin or “cut” the blood, and reinvigorate it. We developed this recipe, which we just refer to as our Appalachian Spring Tonic, from our own knowledge of local plants’ properties and from local lore still found in the mountains we call home. • 3 parts Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) • 1 part Burdock (Arctium minor) • 1 part Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) • 2 parts Elder Berries (Sambucus nigra) Sassafras and Elder are both believed to have been effective in “building” as well as “thinning” the blood and were both common ingredients in spring tonics. Sassafras and burdock promote sweating and act as diuretics, thus (from a folk medicine perspective) proving effective at purifying the blood. Dandelion root is also a diuretic and was thought to help cleanse the liver and kidneys. Plus the tea tastes a lot better than sulfur and molasses-another common spring blood tonic used in Appalachia. We don’t tend to offer much health advice, but we do heartily recommend that folks drink a spring tonic. Combined with a salad of fresh young greens and a bit of garden prepping exercise, it’s an excellent remedy to shed the sluggishness of winter. (Source: otherworld-apothecary.com) 24 | April 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Square Foot Gardening By April Hensley

great thing about gardening is no matter how much growing area you have, there is a gardening method that will fit your space. Indoor plants, outdoor containers, raised beds, or the traditional garden are all ways to grow fruits, vegetables, flowers and ornamentals. Of course, we always wish we had a little more room no matter how many plants we have. If you use raised beds there’s a method of planting called square foot gardening which will help you utilize your planting room more efficiently. This is especially helpful for folks living in urban areas. Developed by writer Mel Bartholomew, square foot gardening is spacing the plants by their size in a measured area. This also helps cut down on weeding because less dirt is left exposed to blowing weed seeds. First we need a container to grow in. Designed for raised beds, containers or window planters can also be used. Fill with your choice of a rich premixed potting soil or make your own blend with compost, vermiculite and peat. Water well, and fill with more mix if it settles. Do not compact or walk on the dirt. Next, we need to measure. We are going to use a simple example of a 4 foot by 4 foot raised bed but your container or raised bed can be any size that fits your needs. Measure and mark at 12 inch intervals on each side. Secure a piece of string at each mark and fasten it to the mark on the opposite board making a straight line. Do this with each mark so that for a 4 x 4 bed you will have 16 squares divided by string. It’s now ready for seeds and plants. Notice the direction the sun shines on your garden. Plant your tallest plants to avoid shading smaller plants. Large plants are placed one per square such as tomatoes and peppers. Smaller plants can be planted several per square like radishes and garlic. Check the growing instructions or the seed pack for spacing requirements. If the spacing is every 6 inches, you will be able to plant 4 per square. If it is 3 inches, you will be able to plant 12. Use your own judgment because lots of plants get bigger than forecasted. All that’s left to do now is keep your plants and seeds watered and weeded until harvest time.

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April Hensley works as an office manager and is an avid gardener, writer and greenhouse hobbyist. April loves the outdoors and is passionate about animal welfare and the environment. She can be reached at aprils1105@embarqmail.com.

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voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2017 | 25

Bringing the Sound of Music to Local Schools Article and Photographs by Pam Blair

etting acquainted with a musical instrument at an early age can have benefits that last a lifetime and that’s why instrument petting zoos are being conducted for 4th and 5th graders throughout the Tri-Cities. These ‘petting zoos’ have been embraced by the schools that have welcomed members of the Johnson City Symphony Orchestra Guild into their classrooms. Joyce Dean Garrison, a Guild member and talented musician, leads each class and brings local musicians who explain the instruments played in the orchestra. These volunteers give a demonstration of the sounds made by each instrument and encourage the children to share in the fun of making music. The beauty of strings is shared by Cynthia Mueller, a symphony musician and music teacher who helps the students differentiate between the sounds of the bass, (the largest and lowest-pitched string instrument), and the violin, viola and cello. Doug Zimmerman, a former coach and musician who plays in the Johnson City Community and ETSU Concert Bands, demonstrates how the trumpet is played and then assists the children as they try it. As Zimmerman says, “Unlike athletic sports, playing a musical instrument is something that you can do for the rest of your life.” Seeing, hearing, and touching the instruments used in beginning band or orchestra is an extraordinary opportunity for a child and as all musicians know, it can be life-changing. The children are delighted by the experience, like the little girl who asked, “When can you come back?” They have many questions for the musicians, such as “How long did it take to learn how to play like that?” Others line up more than once to take a turn holding and playing the violin, cello, or flute. The trombone and snare drums are always a favorite. As each petting zoo comes to a close, more than one child is heard to say, “I want to learn how to do that!” It’s not hard to imagine that a future musical artist is right here at one of our schools, learning how to play the music that enchanted them at a very young age. Is that old flute or trumpet still sitting in your attic? Put it to good use! The Johnson City Symphony Guild is looking for donations of brass, woodwinds, strings and percussion instruments to use in the petting zoo program. If you have an instrument you would like to loan or donate, contact Joyce Dean Garrison at 423.926.3636. For more information about the Symphony and the Guild, visit jcsymphony.com.

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Pam Blair is a writer who has authored and edited numerous publications, including LIFE IS PRECIOUS: LESSONS IN HEALTHY LIVING, SURVIVING CANCER, AND RECOVERING FROM GRIEF (Chapel Hill Press). She can be reached at pblair919@aol.com.

26 | April 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

The Appalachian Woman HERITAGE, CULTURE AND FUTURE

The renewal of place — Led by women each spring . . . By Tammy Robinson Smith

“S

pring Cleaning! A most idiotic name! Any man could tell you it’s actually spring dirtying. All the dust that has settled down quietly, and doesn’t show and only asks to be left alone, germs and all, is stirred up. Everybody is choked and as far as Tammy Robinson Smith possible infected. Instead of being under the carpet, it’s on your furniture and in your food. There’s nowhere to sleep and nothing to eat; nowhere even to sit down. The moment you try disaster comes. You are told to get out of the way; you are pushed here and there; you step in things you are warned to avoid; you— oh, confound it all!...It’s not till the next spring cleaning comes round that you find your most treasured possessions, and then the cleaner sees to it that you lose them again instantly.” —Edward Burke, “How Wives Are So Untidy,” My Wife, 1917

“Instead of organizing and cleaning my house, I pin ideas on how to organize and clean my house. The irony is not lost on me.” —Author unknown (but obviously a Pinterest user with a sense of humor)

One quote sounds like it could have been uttered by my great-grandfather and the other one by me, a hundred years later. However, I do not disagree with the first quote, as much as I hate to admit it. While, I may, in theory see the need for the “cleaning revolution” led by women not just here in the mountains, but, probably all over the world each spring, I rarely approach it with the gusto of the generation of women before me. And, as I write these words I can hear the rumble from the cemeteries of my foremothers turning over in their graves. And, it isn’t that I don’t have a real appreciation for the need of the yearly ritual. Although there is no real need for me to be, as one writer says on the website Simply Appalachian, “Getting the soot out,” as people did many, many years ago, there is still a longing to start fresh again. Spring is a time for renewal, fresh starts and a good cleaning, from new clothes for Easter to freshly cleaned homes and hearth for the family. So, while I may not answer the call as diligently as my mother, or grandmothers or generations of women before me, I still understand that need to begin anew. However, there is something to be said for fall cleaning for us procrastinators! Happy Spring!

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Tammy Robinson Smith, Author of the novel EMMYBETH SPEAKS, a novel that explores 1970s life in small town Appalachia. Available on Amazon and B&N.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2017 | 27

The Art of Outdoor Living

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Modern Day

APPALACHIAN WOMAN SPOTLIGHT:

Becky Nelms

ocated in the heart of the Appalachian region is a homegrown business started by a talented, ambitious and goal orientated business woman, Becky Nelms. Becky has lived in Abingdon, Virginia most of her life, with her roots being in Grundy, Virginia. She grew up in the region, graduated from East Tennessee State University (earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications with a focus on Public Relations and Advertising). Upon graduation, Becky relocated outside the area to Richmond, Virginia. She began a career at Aetna Insurance Company as an Employee Benefits Sales Executive. In 1987, Aetna was known as a leader in the Employee Benefits arena as well as a Fortune 500 Company that truly valued its employees. When Aetna sought out candidates for sales positions, they looked for many qualities in an individual...knowledge, leadership, loyalty, commitment, integrity, creativity, respect and responsiveness. Becky fit the bill perfectly! During her twenty years with the company, she constantly strived to exceed monthly sales quotas and aspired to make the Leader Board for the Top 50 Sales Executives in the country. In 2002, she made the board at #48. In 2003, 2004 and 2005, she kept moving up on the board, and in 2006, Becky earned the position and was recognized as the #1 Sales Executive in Middle Market (50–3,000 employee companies) sales in the country. After accomplishing the highest achievement in sales, Becky retired from Aetna in April 2007 with over 20 years with the company. “In my heart, I always wanted to return to Abingdon to be back with all of my family. Becky followed her heart and did just that! Approximately two years later, she was back home with loved ones and Alfresco Lifestyles, Inc. was born. With the tagline, The Art of Outdoor Living, Alfresco Lifestyles, offers outdoor living with the state-of-the-art outdoor appliances, grills, outdoor furniture, rugs, lamps, umbrellas, fire pits, fireplaces and the very popular The Big Green Egg. “Alfresco Lifestyles has everything you need to make your outdoor living dream a reality. Looking back on the year we opened (2009), our country was facing many economic challenges, but there was no turning back since we had over two years invested in opening our doors. As it turned out, 2009 was the best possible time for us to open. The housing market was down…people were staying in their current homes and adding outdoor additions, outdoor kitchens, and patios, and

our region is a perfect climate for all seasons and year round outdoor living more popular than ever,” Becky states. Becky assists in the design and offers suggestions to enhance any home’s outdoor space. “It is so exciting to see customers selecting their furniture collections, picking out fabrics and making the necessary finishing touches to custom build their outdoor space. I work with our customers to achieve the best results to fit their budget and make their outdoor oasis come to life.” In forming her company, and in her business planning, Becky understood the importance of a company’s mission statement. “I knew I did not have to have a powerful mission statement that applied to Fortune 500 Companies, but I wanted one that made sense and would carry through in everyday life. My grandmother, Mamaw Pink, a woman with a strong Christian faith, always told me ‘if it feels right in your heart, you are doing the right thing.’” Becky’s grandmother’s advice has resonated throughout Becky’s life and in her business. Alfresco Lifestyles has a mission statement that is simple but strong: Always doing the right thing. With the many traits and qualities that her former employer (Aetna) recognized in Becky, she stepped into the role of a business owner with ease and determination. “Life as an entrepreneur has been filled with thrilling and exciting moments. I did Photo by Megan Fleenor not have retail sales experience or experience in running a business, but I knew about quality customer service. I wanted to grow and build a solid company that customers trusted.” Alfresco Lifestyles does just that! “We provide excellent customer service, and I believe in putting the customer first. With online companies popping up every day, we never want to lose sight of who defines our success and that IS our customers.” Becky’s compassionate nature can also be seen in her passion for rescuing animals. As a member of the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty), Becky urges people to make a life-changing difference for animals in the area and across America. “I have always had rescue animals throughout my life and am determined to stop the epidemic of animal cruelty. Presently, my partner Tim and I have a brother and sister terrier mix dogs that were living in a small cage with no shelter, food or water. Today, they (Rowdy and Flower) are two of the happiest and loving members of our family. If you are one of those rare people whose concern for animals goes beyond emotion and gut reaction, please give to this extraordinary organization or to any local animal rescue organization.” With a mission driven company and the willingness to change directions, Becky celebrates nine years of doing business in the region. Alfresco Lifestyles is starting their 9th year of operation, and there is no stopping this whimsical, fun, and exciting small business. Alfresco Lifestyles is The Art of Outdoor Living. Stop by soon and say hi to Becky, Mick, Tim and Megan. If you’re lucky, you may also be greeted by Rowdy and Flower. voicemagazineforwomen.com | April 2017 | 29

Welcome to the new magazine, Modern Day Appalachian Woman… Appalachian Living! Modern Day

APPALACHIAN WOMAN APPALACHIAN LIVING

Our Modern Day Appalachian Woman feature this month is Abingdon, Virginia resident and business owner Becky Nelms. Photography by Megan Fleenor. See the article on page 4.

Featuring

Becky Nelms

We women from the Appalachian region know how our strength and our determination supports our accomplishments. Appalachia is comprised of women who are trailblazers. Those trailblazers are inspirations for other women as they create growth opportunities for their ‘sisters’ in this region. Our focus, with this brand new print and digital addition to Voice Magazine for Women is to broaden the ‘voice’ of women in this region. Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. is expanding our footprint to focus on even more women. We invite you to be a part of our growth. Do you know a woman who has made a difference in the Appalachian region? Do you know a woman who has made a difference in the past, or is currently making a difference in the ‘voice’ of women in this region? Do you know a woman who deserves recognition for her contributions to enable the women in Appalachia through her work, her career, her business, her creativity, or her craft. Let us know! We want to feature her. Contact us for details at submissions@jancarolpublishing.com. Also, please share with us your favorite regional recipes, grandma’s medical remedies, or regional tips that have been passed down from generation to generation. Join us in introducing our Appalachian region globally and around the world. Our online magazine will be seen EVERYWHERE, so grow with us!

Janie C. Jessee, Editor

30 | April 2017 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Modern Day

APPALACHIAN WOMAN APPALACHIAN LIVING

Featuring

Becky Nelms