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November 2021 | Volume 18 | Issue 11
November Hot Hunk Hunt! The October “Hot Hunk” was Chris O’Dowd in the Rocks ad on page 10.
Lee Jung-jae 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 a book from Jan-Carol Publishing!
Congratulations to: Jackie Hess Gate City, VA as the winner in the October Hot Hunk Hunt!
Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!
Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone Number: July Hot Hunk Hunt! Email:
The April “Hot Hunk” was Robert Downey Jr. on page 31.
Voice Speaks
Magnetic Attractions
How to Buy Clothes as Holiday Gifts
Planting Fall Onions
Janie C. Jessee, Editor-in-Chief 4
5
What is Plaid Friday? 6
HOT HUNK LOCATION: Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?
How to Handle the Return of Black Friday 7
Mail this submission form to: Voice Magazine P.O. Box 701 Johnson City, TN 37605 or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is November 20, 2021. PLEASE, ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD 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.
Thanksgiving Weekend Travel Tips 8
Thanksgiving Entertaining 9
VoiceMale /voicemagazineforwomen @VoiceMagazineTN
Pam Blair 14
April Hensley 15
Valley of Fire State Park & Red Rock Canyon, Nevada Nancy Binder 16
Jan-Carol Publishing New Releases 18
Jan-Carol Publishing Featured Books 20
Medications and the Aging Parent Cindy Sproles 24
Ken Heath 10
Thanksgiving Recipes 12
A Different Kind of Thanksgiving Deana Landers 25
GILLIAM STAGE
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voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2021 | 3
VOICE Speaks
FREE Celebrating our 17th anniversary! We wouldn’t be here and there without all of you!
H
ere we are! It’s the holiday season of 2021! Half of this year seemed to mimic 2020 with Covid’s destructive path. With the 2021 holiday season starting, do we dare take opportunities to reconnect with loved ones, family, and friends? This year Covid has presented its loss and change with all the madness and sadness bombarding us from the media. However, the summer did bring back family vacations for many, and the autumn season brought back football games and events with many venues opening up for the first time since the pandemic redirected everyone’s life. Recently, I decided to go walking on the Creeper Trail in Abingdon, VA. The sun was shining brightly, the warm breeze danced the leaves across the path, and the trees hovered over the trail as if protecting it. It was postcard perfect. Just a simple walk, a simple day, and what a simple way to reflect and be thankful for the little things in life. I have a magnet on my wall at the office with these words, “Enjoy the little things in life, because one day you will look back and realize they were the big things.” This is so true. What are the little things in your life? This holiday season, take time to find the little things in your life and give thanks. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to find gratitude for those little things, because they could be big things in your future. JCP finds this time of year to be the perfect time to say how grateful and thankful we are for all of our readers, our loyal fans, and our faithful supporters, advertisers, and authors. Last year and this year are more special with your continued support because we could not be here without all of you out there. This year we will be showcasing book buys on Black Friday and Cyber Monday through JCP’s website — jancarolpublishing.com. Be sure to find that special book gift! November 27th is Small Business Saturday. It is a day that promotes small, brick-and-mortar businesses with the start of the holiday shopping. Shop with local small businesses! The money spent here stays here and it helps us all. So, wear your masks, wash your hands, and go shopping to find that special gift! If you would like to buy a JCP book, just give us a call at 423-926-9983. Sign up for our newsletter with monthly discounts on select JCP books. Each month we are happy to spotlight JCP books which make great gifts anytime of the year! Visit jancarolpublishing.com to see our online bookstore for all your holiday book buying needs. From all of us to all of you a big thank you, and we wish you and yours a very Happy Thanksgiving! Verse of the month: “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ…” Ephesians 5:20 KJV Thought of the month: “Eventually all the pieces fall into place…until then… laugh at the confusion, live for the moment, and know that everything happens for a reason.” Carrie Bradshaw
Janie C. Jessee, Editor-in-Chief
4 | November 2021 | voicemagazineforwomen.com
LITTLE CREEK BOOKS MOUNTAIN GIRL PRESS EXPRESS EDITIONS ROSEHEART PUBLISHING DIGISTYLE FIERY NIGHT SKIPPY CREEK BROKEN CROW RIDGE “ 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-IN-CHIEF Janie C Jessee, 423.502.6246 publisher@jancarolpublishing.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS April Hensley Nancy Binder
Cindy Sproles Ken Heath
Pam Blair Deana Landers
TLC PUBLISHER/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Nancy Williams nancywilliams@thelauruscompany.com Chanie Garner - Project Editor OFFICE Savannah Bailey Communications Director/Production Editor communications@jancarolpublishing.com SALES Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983 GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com Holden Gaylor - Assistant Graphics Designer DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Staff PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 18, Issue 11) 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. © 2021 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.
HOW TO BUY CLOTHES AS HOLIDAY GIFTS
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oliday shopping lists are being made, and there is a strong chance that clothing has made many of those lists. Before rushing out to buy that new sweater or pair of slacks, shoppers are urged to follow a few tips that can make clothing shopping easier. • Mimic the recipient’s sense of style. Take your shopping cues from the types of clothing your loved one typically wears. Now is not the time to try to impart your own fashion sense on someone else. Enlist help if you’re not exactly sure of your loved one’s sense of style; retail associates are there to help. • Stick with classics. Instead of mimicking his or her style, you can always select from classic apparel or general categories if they seem like they might be the right fit. Certain pieces, such as classic black pants or a skirt or a camisole and cardigan, always work seamlessly in a wardrobe. A gentleman might appreciate a new dinner jacket or blazer for those special occasions like a night out on the town. Opt for muted colors unless the recipient to make a statement. • Find out the right size. This can take some investigatory work, but enlist other friends or family members to determine which size clothing your loved one wears. • Discover his or her favorite stores. Through your relationship, you may have learned about your loved one’s favorite clothing stores. Such knowledge can give you a better sense of where to shop. • Get gift receipts and learn the exchange policy. Even items purchased with the best intentions might not be right or fit correctly. Give the gift recipient an easy out by including a gift receipt with the present. This way he or she can exchange the gift for something else at full purchase price. Avoid retailers with especially stringent exchange policies. • Enroll in a clothing subscription service. You don’t need to buy clothes to gift clothing. Another way to gift clothing is to enroll your loved one in a trial for a clothing service. Clothing services ask members
a few questions, and then fashion specialists will choose select pieces to ship each month. The clothing can be kept or returned for new items. Clothing gifts are very popular. Gift-givers can help ensure they’re well received by selecting items with care.
Giving the gift of an experience is a rising trend, particularly among millennials. Harris research has determined that millennials (defined as people born between 1980 and 1996) highly value experiences, and they are increasingly spending time and money on them. Types of experiences include athletic pursuits, cultural visits, concerts, social events, and various travel. And it’s not just millennials. Overall, consumer spending has shifted in the last 10 to 15 years. HSBC bank chief economist Kevin Logan has said consumer spending on recreation, travel and eating out has been trending upward for more than a decade.
voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2021 | 5
What is Plaid Friday?
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ocally owned small businesses are vital components of many thriving communities. The unique role locally owned small businesses play was never more apparent than during the pandemic, when many such establishments were forced to close, reduce their hours of operation or downsize their offerings as consumers were urged to stay home and prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus. In the wake of those changes, communities across the country soon realized how vital local businesses are to their local economies. Job creation and tax revenue are two ways that locally owned small businesses support local economies. These businesses also make communities unique and serve as a source of pride for residents, which underscores the importance of supporting them as the world slowly emerges from the pandemic. Businesses big and small look to the holiday season as a great time to increase their revenue. Big business gets a signifi-
cant boost from Black Friday, which occurs on the day after Thanksgiving and marks the unofficial opening of the holiday shopping season. But consumers who want to support locally owned small businesses as they start their holiday shopping can look to Plaid Friday. Plaid Friday was initially organized in Oakland, Calif., in 2009. Back then, Plaid Friday, which takes place on the day after Thanksgiving, was intended to serve as a more laid back alternative to Black Friday, a day that’s become as notorious for incidents threatening public safety as it has for great deals. Plaid Friday efforts promote locally owned small businesses and encourage residents to patronize these establishments as they begin their holiday shopping. Since 2009, Plaid Friday has caught on outside of Oakland, and many communities now embrace it. Many small business owners host Plaid Friday sales, and some even offer extra discounts to customers who wear plaid, which has come to symbolize support for small, independently owned businesses. This year Plaid Friday occurs on November 26. Residents are urged to support small, locally owned businesses, many of which could use a boost after a challenging 2020 holiday season.
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HOW TO HANDLE THE RETURN OF BLACK FRIDAY
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return to normalcy should be welcome news for local retailers, and Black Friday could start the beginning of a busy and lucrative holiday season. With a more normal holiday season on the horizon, shoppers may benefit from a refresher course on how to get the best Black Friday deals. • Start early. Black Friday may not begin until the day after Thanksgiving, but savvy shoppers know that many retailers post or leak their sales well in advance of the big day. • Comparison shop. Getting a head start on Black Friday shopping also affords shoppers a chance to comparison shop. PriceGrabber.com makes it easy to compare deals from a wide range of retailers on everything from appliances to furniture to pet supplies. • Confirm when stores open. Many retailers abandoned midnight store openings on Black Friday a year ago. Such decisions were made to protect public health and they may remain in place in 2021. Though it might be a family tradition to visit a retailer in the wee small hours of the Black Friday morning, the pandemic has changed the holiday shopping landscape. So confirm when stores open and close before crawling out of bed in the dark this Black Friday. • Utilize curbside pickup to avoid crowds. Shoppers who are still nervous about COVID-19 don’t have to sit Black Friday out for the second year in a row. Various retailers started offering curbside pickup during the pandemic and that option has proven so popular that it’s stuck around even after vaccines became widely available. Shoppers with unvaccinated children at home or those who simply want to avoid crowds can safely land great deals by opting for curbside pickup this Black Friday. Black Friday figures to feel more normal in 2021 than it did a year ago. Consumers can capitalize on Black Friday sales by revisiting some old shopping strategies and embracing new ones as the 2021 holiday season begins.
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Thanksgiving Weekend Travel Tips T
hanksgiving is on the horizon, and that’s welcome news to people who can’t wait to celebrate the holiday season with their loved ones. Though millions of people stayed home for Thanksgiving in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, rising vaccination rates suggest the holiday travel season will be back in full swing this November. Prospective travelers can consider these tips as they make plans to travel this Thanksgiving. • Recognize the travel timeline might be different. The successful rollout of three COVID-19 vaccines has allowed life to return to some semblance of normalcy, but millions of professionals are still working from home full-time. Remote working has afforded people more flexibility in regard to when they can travel this Thanksgiving. The online travel and bookings experts at Priceline reported in September that the busiest travel day for Thanksgiving at that point was Monday, November 15. That’s a week and a half prior to Thanksgiving. A return to in person learning may limit families’ ability to travel so early, but travelers who can work remotely and don’t have to take school into consideration should recognize that
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the travel timeline has changed. That could make booking early flights more difficult and expensive than it used to be. • Pack light. Travelers who intend to fly this Thanksgiving may want to avoid checking any luggage. Baggage fees can be expensive, but many airlines also have been forced to confront new issues that hadn’t been a problem in the past. For example, in June American Airlines was forced to cancel hundreds of flights due to pandemic-related staffing shortages. Staffing shortages can lead to confusion and last-minute cancellations, which may increase the likelihood that travelers’ luggage is lost or temporarily misplaced. By packing just a carry-on bag, travelers can ensure they have everything they need when they arrive at their destination. • Check the weather forecast. Extreme weather has become the norm as the effects of climate change continue to become more apparent. Late November has not traditionally been a stormy season in many parts of North America, but it’s still important that travelers stay abreast of the weather forecasts on and around Thanksgiving. Knowledge of the forecast may spur travelers who are driving to change their travel dates so they aren’t caught in storms. Those who intend to fly may not have such flexibility, but it still pays to know the forecast. If a storm is coming, air travelers can give themselves extra time to get to the airport or even book rooms at airport hotels so they won’t have to drive to the airport during a storm. The 2021 Thanksgiving weekend figures to be both busy and unique.
Tips to Simplify Thanksgiving Entertaining
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reparing Thanksgiving dinner for a houseful of close friends and relatives can be a tad overwhelming. Thanksgiving is a food- and tradition-centric holiday, and all eyes will are typically on the dinner table. Pulling off a feast of this magnitude — multiple courses, side dishes and desserts — takes considerable effort. These tips, tricks and timesavers can be a Thanksgiving host’s saving grace.
Pick the menu early Don’t leave menu planning and shopping to the last minute. Decide what you’ll be cooking in addition to turkey several weeks before the big day. Select two or three side dishes, preferably items that can be prepared in advance and then reheated on Thanksgiving. These can include a baked macaroni-and-cheese casserole, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a cornbread stuffing.
Brine your bird Turkey is the centerpiece of the feast, so give it every opportunity to shine. No one wants a dry turkey, but unfortunately this lean poultry can dry out easily. Meats typically lose about 30 percent of their weight during cooking. However, by soaking the turkey in a brine prior to cooking it, you can reduce this moisture loss to as little as 15 percent, according to Dr. Estes Reynolds, a brining expert at the University of Georgia. Brining the fowl for a day or more can infuse flavor and moisture.
fruits, nuts, or acorns. A hollowed-out pumpkin filled with fresh flowers also can be eye-catching. Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate bounty. Treat guests to a great experience by learning some hosting tips to make the holiday easier to manage.
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Start prep work a few days before Thanksgiving Take some stress out of Thanksgiving by cutting all vegetables and/or preparing some dishes a few days early. Label and organize prepared ingredients by recipe and store in the refrigerator. Make extra room in the fridge by removing nonessential items and placing them in a cooler with ice and cleaning out any old food or condiments. Plan your table settings and label which bowls and other serving dishes will be used for which items. This will make it much easier to set the table on Thanksgiving.
Serve batched cocktails It can be challenging and expensive to have a full bar for guests. Mulled wine, hot cider and punches are ideal ways to service a crowd looking for delicious spirited drinks.
Create simple centerpieces Use seasonal sights for your centerpieces or place settings. These can include small squashes, gourds, citrus
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voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2021 | 9
Voicemail
Male
By Ken Heath
I’m Truly Blessed
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his November, I’ll mark 27 years in this career I love. As I reflect on the years, I know it’s a team that makes it happen. My administrative assistants make me. One now takes care of our water department. One takes care of town employees by heading up our HR department. One is a CPS counselor/youth minister. One is opening her own business while holding down a full time job and being a full time mom. One works in health care while being a “farm-her.” One is a top notch accountant. One was honored for her work with high schoolers. And Cyndi — she’s my Della Street, ready to tackle all I toss her way with a quick smile and the best customer service attitude I’ve ever seen. It’s kind of like a military tour — a couple years in the bull pen then on to bigger and better things for my second chairs. (Thank goodness Cyndi re-upped for another tour of service!) To me, the joy is working with such bright, dedicated, amazing young women and men, learning from them, and teaching them a bit of what I’ve learned over a lifetime of community service. It’s not easy, I’ll be the first to admit. I’m a cantankerous, tough, driven guy that expects much, but no more than I expect from myself. Through fire calls,
crazy events, national presentations, even my senate run, my team has held it all together. I do my best to always let my team know how much I appreciate them, trust them, respect them, and yes, love them. Add in my interns, my other team members Catherine, Leslie, and Alex (even though she’s also moved to bigger things, is still so integral to our work), the volunteers, town staff, business owners, property owners, elected and appointed officials, and it’s easy to see how blessed I am — how blessed we all are — to have such talent right here in our town, county, and region. The pandemic paused the world, but like we’ve done time and again, we’re popping the clutch and going full speed to serve you. So to my team . . . my tribe . . . THANK YOU. We’re not marking time. We’re making a difference. Each day I pray for God to use me as He needs, to help me be an ambassador of His Word, a reflection of His Love, an instrument of His Peace in all I think, say, and do. And I remind myself of John Wayne’s immortal words with my paraphrase “This is my community and today I’m gonna do good for it.” I know I fall short. But I know those that I work with are always there to lift our town up, even when I miss the mark. Tomorrow is another day. Another chance to do good for your community. Will you join me? (And when you see these amazing veterans of my office staff, please give them a hug. They’re the ones who’ve led us, continue to lead our communities, making their mark).
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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 owner of the legendary Cliffside Roadhouse, doggie dad to Miss Reagan and their rescue Scottie the Wonder Dog 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.
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(276) 759-1102 | www.kenheath.com 10 | November 2021 | voicemagazineforwomen.com
Giving Tuesday: An Opportunity to Support the TechGYRLS Program YWCA TechGYRLS believes time well spent in a fun, safe, and supportive environment after school is a primary building block for quality of life and future success. Students feel connected at YWCA TechGYRLS, where we promote positive self-esteem, life skills, teamwork, leadership, creativity, and educational progress. YWCA TechGYRLS emphasizes the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth of the students while also focusing on individual talents and needs. Our goal is to help the children we serve understand and develop a set of values that will influence them in making healthy and positive decisions in their lives, while focusing on grades and behavior improvements. As a part of YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia’s response to COVID-19, we have made necessary adjustments to programming and physical space in the building to ensure the best use of available resources for our children, families, and community. As a result, the TechGYRLS now have a larger learning area in the State Street building for daily programming. The 2200 sq. ft. classroom gives TechGYRLS the ability to have in-house enrichment activities while following proper COVID safety protocols. Individual student supply boxes have been provided to prevent potential spread of the virus during hands on learning activities. Additionally, new individual seating arrangements allow for flexibility in the classroom while maintaining a safe social distance. These are just a few of the adjustments created to adhere to strict COVID safety protocols necessary for the health and wellbeing of the students we serve. As we come up on the holiday season, we are reminded of so much need in our community and how many will go without this season. In addition to the growing TechGYRLS need for supplies and programming cost, we are also looking forward to the annual TechGYRLS Christmas Shopping Spree to teach budgeting and wants vs. needs, as well as provide a few personal care items and hopefully a Christmas wish or two. We ask that you remember TechGYRLS in your holiday plans, as your donation can bring joy to children in need and share the true spirit of the season. Your donation to Giving Tuesday will help make the holidays brighter for the all of the TechGYRLS. This November 30th, Giving Tuesday, please support the YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia TechGYRLS by visiting our webpage or our Facebook fundraiser.
voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2021 | 11
Thanksgiving T H U R S D AY , N O V E M B E R 2 5
Hot Mulled (Sherried) Apple Cider Serves 16 1 gallon apple cider 1 orange, unpeeled, cut into slices 1⁄4 cup whole cloves 4 sticks cinnamon 1⁄4 cup honey, preferably cranberry honey 1 cup sherry (optional) Combine the cider, orange slices, cloves, cinnamon, and honey in a large pot over medium heat. If you are picky about things floating in your cider, make a little bundle out of cheesecloth and place the cinnamon and cloves inside before adding to the cider. I like to chew on cloves, so I just toss everything in. Bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer over low heat for an hour or so to spread these lovely winter aromas around your home. If you’re serving it to adults, add the sherry. It might make everyone want to go sledding! Source: “Hot Mulled (Sherried) Apple Cider” from Laurey Masterton’s The Fresh Honey Cookbook
Mini Cheese Ball Bites Makes 12 8 ounces light cream cheese, softened 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese 3 tablespoons drained, chopped pimentos 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon paprika Pinch kosher salt Pinch freshly ground black pepper 1⁄2 cup crushed pecans 1⁄4 cup chopped chives 12 pretzel sticks In a large bowl, stir together the cream cheese, cheddar, pimentos, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Place the crushed pecans and chives in a small bowl. Set aside. Roll the cheese mixture into twelve 1-inch balls. Evenly coat each ball with the pecan-chive mixture. Press a pretzel stick into the top of each cheese ball just before serving. Serve at room temperature or chilled. Source: Spectacular Spreads: 50 Amazing Food Spreads for Any Occasion by Megan Brown
Flourless Chocolate Cookies Makes 24 to 36 cookies 3 cups powdered sugar 3⁄4 natural unsweetened cocoa powder 1⁄2 teaspoon espresso powder (optional) 1⁄4 teaspoon salt 2 large egg whites, at room temperature 1 large egg, at room temperature 1 1⁄2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, sift the powdered sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder together, then whisk in the instant espresso powder (if using) and salt until well combined. Set aside. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the egg whites, egg, and vanilla extract until fully combined. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, and stir until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. continued on next page
12 | November 2021 | voicemagazineforwomen.com
Using a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave a little room between each one. Bake for 11 to 14 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are set. Remove from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Source: “Flourless Chocolate Cookies” from Danielle Rye’s Live Well Bake Cookies: 75 Classic Cookie Recipes for Every Occasion
Crustless Pie A treat for those with gluten intolerance Makes 8 servings 3⁄4 cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 1⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cloves 2 large eggs 1 can (15 ounces) Libby’s® 100% Pure Pumpkin 1 can (12 fluid ounces) Nestlé® Carnation Evaporated Milk Nonstick cooking spray Whipped cream (optional)
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Preheat oven as directed below. Glass baking dishes without crust require a cooler oven, and in most cases, a longer baking time. Spray baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or lightly grease bottom of baking pan or baking dish. Mix sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in a small bowl. Beat eggs in a large bowl. Stir in pumpkin and sugar-spice mixture. Gradually stir in evaporated milk.
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9-inch-round glass pie dish: 325 F; bake for 55 to 60 minutes 10-inch-round glass pie dish: 325 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes 8-inch-round cake pan: 350 F; bake for 45 to 50 minutes 9-inch-round cake pan: 350 F; bake for 35 to 40 minutes Source: “Crustless Libby’s® Famous Pumpkin Pie” from Libby’s® Pumpkin
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423.262.0444 voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2021 | 13
Magnetic Attractions By Pam Blair
T
“I’m going to steal your idea.” I laughed and told her that would make me happy, and she explained that she had lots of magnets from people and places she and her husband had visited around the world. She went on to say that while the magnets had special meaning, she hadn’t known what to do with them and they were just sitting in a box. I gave her one of my tole trays and she was off, excited about creating her own memory board. Our magnets have a new home on a circular tole tray that hangs on the wall, each one opening the door to memories of time well spent. When I look at the one from the Italian island of Capri, I remember riding a rickety old bus on a perilously steep road leading up to the tiny hilltop town of Anacapri. As the bus struggled and labored up the road filled with many switchbacks, the views of Capri far below were so spectacular it was well worth the heart stopping ride. It’s just one example of how a little magnet can be a lasting attraction that tells enough stories to last a lifetime.
he use of magnets on a refrigerator is a time-honored tradition that is enjoyed by many, as it puts objects front and center for everyone to see. Photos, children’s drawings, or to-do lists are all popular things to stick on the refrigerator. We used ours to display a collection of magnets gathered during trips we were able to take before Covid slowed travel to a nearhalt. Buying magnets on trips is something we’ve always done, and while it’s kind of cheesy, they are a visual reminder of memorable places we enjoyed so much. When our refrigerator stopped working and had to be replaced, removing the magnets created the opportunity to find a new home for them. Now that we have a shiny new refrigerator, I looked for other display options and spotted my old tole tray collection. The trays are beautiful, have a variety of shapes and sizes, and a metal Pam Blair is a former medical librarian and communications manager who surface that is perfect for attaching magnets. I selected a gets nervous when she doesn’t have something to read. She loves descriplarge tray whose paint had diminished with time, and I tive writing and has authored and edited a book and numerous other publications. Contact her at pblair919@aol.com. spread all the magnets on a table to think about the best arrangement. The first one almost jumped onto the tray with the force of magnet meeting metal. Clearly, they were meant to go together, and after placing all of them I had a unique story board filled with memories of the trip that each piece represents. I welcome the opportunity How do you know if someto help with estates and downsizing. I have thing you tried was successful? It listings of every size for every need. Call today! has been said that imitation is the 508 Princeton Rd., Ste. 106 • Johnson City, TN sincerest form of flattery; so when RealtorRobinMiller@gmail.com a friend saw the tray for the first Robin Miller www.premierhomestn.com time, she turned to me and said, Real Estate Professional
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Planting a Fall Onion Crop By April Hensley
G
ardening season is winding down to a slower pace now that the temperature has gotten cooler. Plants are dying back and only hardier flowers, like cheerful mums, are blooming. There isn’t the hectic rush of picking and preserving that comes with the hot summer days. There is still so much we can do in the garden though. Cleaning up dried plants and putting on a top layer of compost will get the beds ready for spring planting. Trimming bushes and thinning bulbs will help beautify next year’s blooms. Rake up leaves and add them to your compost pile or garden beds. Grab those pesky weeds now to keep their roots from running deep over winter. There are things we can plant too. I always try to plant my onions in the fall. It gives them time to set roots before the cold causes them to go dormant. Then in the spring they will start growing again. The onions seem bigger and healthier to me, and I can pick them earlier next year and use my beds for something else during the growing season. Planting onions is pretty simple but here’s a few things to help gardeners have a better outcome. • Use onion sets instead of seeds to plant in early November. • The soil is very important. Make sure it is loose so the onion bulb has room to grow without pushing itself out of the dirt. • Add compost and fertilizer to the loosened soil. • Plant 6 inches apart and cover with two inches of soil with the root end pointing down. • Place straw or mulch over the sets to help hold in heat when nights are chilly. This will protect them over the winter.
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• Water the sets well and continue watering on dry sunny fall days. You will see green shoots come up as the onions start growing roots. Stop watering after freezing night temperatures become the norm. • If you have a problem with digging animals, you may want to cover the onion sets until they get established. Some people put wire on the ground. You can use row cloth or cages too. • In the spring when frost is over, you can leave the straw and mulch. Remove any small weeds before they take over and start watering again when needed. Green tops will come up again or already be there if it’s been a mild winter. 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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Valley of Fire State Park & Red Rock Canyon, Nevada Article and Photographs By Nancy Binder
A
fter a day or two of being assaulted by the crowds, lights, noise, and glitz of Las Vegas, I am more than ready to spend some time in the solitude of nature. Just 15 miles west of the Las Vegas Strip is Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Even though it welcomes more than three million visitors a year, once past the visitors center area the crowds thinned out and I can enjoy nature. I make a point of stopping at the visitors center to learn a little bit about the people, geology, biology, and points of interest in the park. Red Rock Canyon is in the eastern part of the Mojave Desert. There are 600 species of plants in the area, the most common in the valley are Joshua tree, Mojave yucca, banana yucca, creosote, and blackbrush. At higher elevations, the Utah juniper and the Sonoran scrub oak grow. Agave plants are easy to see as the flowering stem is over 10 feet tall. Although wild burros are said to be frequently seen, alas, I have not seen any during my trips here. The one-way, 13 mile long scenic loop road allows viewing of many of the beautiful rock formations and leads to parking lots near many of the trails. There are 19 hiking trails from very short (less than a mile) to strenuous (5+ miles with a 2,000 foot climb), such as the one to Turtlehead Peak. We chose several of the short, easy trails and we were not disappointed in the beauty we saw. This area had been occupied by Paleo-Indians from 11,000 BC to 8,000 BC and other groups such as the Anasazi and Patayan Cultures and the Southern Paiute people from 900 AD to the present day. On one of our visits in early March we had a dramatic “wall of rain” heading towards us which made for a scary sight. We were on high ground and were able to stop in a pull-out. It was quite the rainstorm but quickly ended. On another day we drove to Valley of Fire State Park located 50+ miles northeast of Las Vegas. This park covers over 45,000 acres of the Mojave Desert with bright red Aztec sandstone outcrops layered on gray and tan limestone. It is Nevada’s oldest state park opening in 1934. The Civilian Conservation Corps began work on the park in 1933 building campgrounds, trails, stone visitor cabins, ramadas and roads. 16 | November 2021 | voicemagazineforwomen.com
Red Rock rainstorm brewing
Red Rock layers of sandstone The park gets its name from the bright red Aztec sandstone formed from shifting sand dunes 150 million years ago. They often appear to be on fire when reflecting the sun’s rays. The visitors center has exhibits about the history, geology, and ecology of the park. The 10 ½ mile main road through the park is designated a Nevada Scenic Byway. Petroglyphs are seen throughout the park with Mouse’s Tank and Atlatl Rock being two places where numerous petroglyphs are easily accessible. The park has also preserved three of the original stone cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corp. We walked continued on next page
Yucca in the desert, snow in the mountains at Red Rock
several of the easy hiking trails enjoying being among these gigantic rock formations. Another point of interest is a memorial to John J. Clark, a civil war veteran, who emigrated to Southern California after his discharge from the New York Infantry in 1863. While traveling from Bakersfield, California to Salt Lake City on a buckboard, he stopped along the Arrowhead Trail, tied his horse to the back of the wagon, and wandered around probably looking for water. At some point he crawled under his buckboard and died, presumably from thirst, several days before his body was found in June, 1915. The nearby town of Overton erected a memorial to him in June 1949. A natural point of interest is reached by a short trail. Petrified logs are displayed in their partially unearthed state surrounded by some fencing. The trees are ancient pines that grew in the area about 150 million years ago. Petrified forests are fairly common in the West. Petrification occurs when wood is preserved from decomposition by rapid entombment in mud, particularly mud formed from volcanic ash. The wood cannot decompose because of the lack of oxygen. It is mineralized to transform it to stone. There are several spots in Valley of Fire State Park where petrified logs can be seen. A number of automobile commercials and 39 movies have been filmed here. The first movie, Black Cyclone, was filmed in 1925. The park also has facilities for weddings. There are a number of covered picnic sites available. We brought our own picnic lunch as there is no food service within the park. As in all desert environments, it is important to protect yourself from the sun, have plenty of water with you, and drink before you are thirsty. When walking and hiking be aware of where you are stepping and placing your hands as venomous snakes, spiders, and scorpions are in the area. We have enjoyed this park with few people and awesome beauty everywhere we look.
Valley of Fire hiking trail
Valley of Fire arch
Valley of Fire hiking trail
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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@sbcglobal.net.
voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2021 | 17
“every story needs a book”
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, Broken Crow Ridge, Fiery Night, Skippy Creek, and RoseHeart Publishing are all imprints of Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.
NEW RELEASES
OUT NOW! “I Will Spin Again is the a young girl excited to perform in The Nutcracker Ballet. This is a wonderful and sweet story for children and adults about not giving up when life takes an unexpected turn.” — Rebecca Williams Spindler, Author of The Tale of Two Sisters Series
Wes Schum, Amateur Radio’s Unsung Hero WES SCHUM
Written and Illustrated by JeanAnn Taylor MaryElla has just been given the role of The Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker Ballet. After she is injured on the playground, she loses her special part and must summon all her courage and strength to find her way back to health. On her journey she learns the important life lessons of dedication, acceptance, and forgiveness.
Amateur Radio’s
Unsung Hero Written by Dominic (Nick) Tusa On Thanksgiving Day 1961, Wes Schum was unstoppable. His Central Electronics Company had produced the world’s most advance single-sideband transmitter, setting the amateur radio world ablaze. Three months later, it was all over. 60 years later, learn why and what could have been. On Thanksgiving Day 1961, Wes Schum was unstoppable. His Central Electronics Company had produced the world’s most advance single-sideband transmitter, setting the amateur radio world ablaze. Three months later, it was all over. 60 years later, learn why and what could have been.
Dominic (Nick) Tusa is a principal radio communications consultant and founder of Tusa Consulting Services. For over 42 years, Tusa has provided technical services involving the design, implementation, and maintenance of land mobile radio and microwave communication systems for both public safety and private industry. Tusa earned his first amateur radio license at age 11 and has been continuously active in the hobby for 57 years.
Written and Illustrated by
JeanAnn Taylor
COPYRIGHT 2021 COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. WWW.JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM
Dominic (Nick) Tusa
NG, INC. G.COM
I Will Spin Again
WES SCHUM Amateur Radio’s Unsung Hero
Amateur Radio’s Unsung Hero
endearing story of MaryElla,
I Will Spin Again
WES SCHUM
the role of The Sugar Plum After she is injured on the cial part and must summon to find her way back to learns the important life nce, and forgiveness.
Dominic (Nick) Tusa
Carla: The Cherub of Death
Written by Michael Gryboski Carla has always feared the discovery of her violent world by the general public. She did her best to keep it hidden, even from loved ones. However, after a failed kidnapping by a cartel, one journalist might be close to throwing Carla into the greatest danger of her life. Josie
Josie
osie is finally coming out of a deep depression after losing her mom to breast cancer only to find out her husband has been having an affair with her best friend. Her life is already in shambles when she learns her mother had some secrets of her own.
Her Tuscan Sister
“A wonderful book that made me laugh and cry.” —Wanda Sheppard “A compelling novel about love, loss, and the type of forgiveness that we learn best through the love of Christ.” — Joy Ruble, Author of Rich Girl
“I believe Karen Bruce will soon become one of your favorite authors. She brings her characters to life and makes you feel they are your family. You cry, laugh, and celebrate with them.” —Deborah Corn “This is a wonderful story of forgiveness and true love. As God forgives our sins, we need to forgive others.” —Ladonna DeCaterina
KAREN BRUCE is married to Kenny Bruce and they live in Mendota, Virginia. Their two grown sons are happily married with children of their own.
www.karengbruce.com
Karen G. Bruce (Facebook/Instagram)
COPYRIGHT 2021 COVER PAINTING BY DANIELLE MULLINS COVER DESIGN BY TARA SIZEMORE AUTHOR PHOTO BY KENNY BRUCE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. WWW.JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM
A Collection of Short Stories Book 3
F A : Jan-Carol Publishing Anthology Appalachian hauntings are back with the third installment of These Haunted Hills. Each story within these pages is packed with spooky intrigue and page turning excitement. Seven accomplished authors have come together to create another anthology full of mystery and supernatural elements that will have you rereading these stories for seasons to come. EATURING
Courtnee Turner Hoyle
18 | November 2021 | voicemagazineforwomen.com
BOOK 3
COPYRIGHT 2021 COVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE COVER PHOTO: © SANDRA CUNNINGHAM / ADOBE STOCK JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM
A COLLECTION OF SHORT STORIES
Jan Howery
Linda Hudson Hoagland
Bev Freeman
The Mitchellgoshes
Two little boys from different backgrounds meet and form a friendship
Written by Retta West while exploring new possibilities. Illustrated by Grayson Campbell Two little boys from different backgrounds meet and form a friendship while exploring new possibilities. “Blurb can go here from author.”
Illustrated by
Grayson Campbell
COPYRIGHT 2021 JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. WWW.JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM
HEART OF HEARING
Meaghan Thomas is an award-winning broadcast meteorologist. She proudly wears bi-lateral hearing aids and is a dedicated advocate for the hard of hearing, deaf and Deaf communities. Meaghan created the non-profit, The Heart of Hearing, Inc. to raise funding for those who cannot afford hearing aids. To find out more information and how to donate, visit: www.theheartofhearing.org.
A COLLECTION OF SHORT STORIES BOOK 3
Written by
Retta West
– Author Name
is an animated and entertaining story for children to encourage them to wear their aids. It provides and highlights aspects of the world around us that would be missed if they chose not to wear them. A portion of the proceeds will go directly to the non-profit, The Heart of Hearing, Inc. created by the author, Meaghan Thomas.
These Haunted Hills
Josie
A STORY OF FORGI V E N E SS
UTHORS
Lori C. Byington
Rebecca D. Elswick
Jeff Geiger Jr.
THESE HAUNTED HILLS
These Haunted Hills:
KAREN G. BRUCE
Written by E. Louise Jaques The sudden death of her brother Jim, and the subsequent discovery of a half-sister living in Tuscany, upend Catherine (Cat) Emerson’s tranquil life. Since Cat refuses to fly—even in a post-pandemic world—her Tuscan sister Luna Bianchi and Nico, Luna’s soon-to-be adopted son, travel to Amelia Island, Florida to join Cat. On the flight, Luna and Nico meet Sam Lawrence who’s a dead-ringer for Cat’s high school boyfriend. A romance blossoms between Cat and Sam. After Jim’s passing, his coworker Rodney approaches Cat about possible illegalities at the company her brother co-owned. When Rodney is murdered, Cat and her friend Lisa become embroiled in the mystery. Lisa continues to investigate Rodney’s death when Cat takes a cruise ship from Florida to Italy to visit her sister. During Cat, Luna, and Nico’s tour of Sicily, Luna is called back to her home in Siena by the police. A day later, Luna vanishes. Will Cat face her greatest fear and fly from Sicily to Tuscany to find her sister before it’s too late?
Written by Karen Bruce Josie is finally coming out of a deep depression after losing her mom to breast cancer only to find out her husband has been having an affair with her best friend. Her life is already in shambles when she learns her mother had some secrets of her own.
A STORY OF FORG IVENE SS
A STORY OF FOR G I V E N E SS
J
Josie: A Story of Forgiveness
KAREN G. BRUCE
COPYRIGHT 2021 AUTHOR PHOTO BY CHELSEA ROCHELLE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. WWW.JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM
Heart of Hearing
Written by Meaghan Thomas Illustrated by Illustrated by Miriam and Sean Balsano Heart of Hearing is an animated and entertaining story for children to encourage them to wear their aids. It provides and highlights aspects of the world around us that would be missed if they chose not to wear them. A portion of the proceeds will go directly to the non-profit, The Heart of Hearing, Inc. created by the author, Meaghan Thomas. Written by
Illustrated by
Meaghan Thomas
Miriam and Sean Balsano
November is International Q: Picture Book Month!
Ask the Book Editor Judi Light Hopson
Judi, I’m writing a self-help book for those who want to retire early. I retired at fifty-five, so I know it’s do-able. Somehow, though, my advice sounds hollow. Any tips? — Maxine J., Chicago
JCP has quite the selection of picture books complete with stunning artwork for young readers to choose from. Among our selection is Gorgeous Georgia: A Story of Inner Beauty by Hunter D. Darden, which follows a giraffe on her journey to learn that beauty comes from within. Also available from JCP is The Unlucky Donkey by Dr. Amanda Ellis-O’quinn, in which readers join a young donkey as he searches for his purpose.
A:
Maxine, line up at least ten great interview subjects. Call wealth management firms to find them. Make sure they are in different locales. Ask each person to share his or her top three tips. These might include: start saving by age thirty, have a written plan, and find a mentor. Remember, every book like this should entertain, inform, and inspire the reader. — Judi Light Hopson
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judihopson@earthlink.net
Appalachian Author’s Guild Meeting Come to Shoney’s in Abingdon, VA Tuesday, November 9, 2021, for a general meeting where we will have a Writing Grab Bag and installation of the Board for 2022. All are welcome to attend from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.
Complete your home with decor from The Old Town Emporium in Jonesborough. Located inside the Jonesborough Visitors Center, 117 Boone St, Jonesborough, TN 37659
Purchase Jan-Carol Publishing Books at the Harvest Table! “every story needs a book”
13180 Meadowview Square • Meadowview, VA • (276) 944-5140 voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2021 | 19
This Month’s Featured Books
National Memoir Writing Month November is National Memoir Writing Month! Take the opportunity this month to share your personal stories through writing. Plus, don’t miss your chance to share in the life stories of others with these featured books!
Journey to Your Self By Sandra Cooze
Journey to Your Self – How to Heal from Trauma begins with the author’s own experience of child molestation, sexual assault, bullying and rape, the moment she hit rock bottom and from there on out successfully healed her trauma and transformed her life. Sandra Cooze then continues by taking you on a journey through the mysteries of trauma, and the effects it can have on your body, mind, and spirit. While unraveling the concept of trauma she lists helpful tools, leaves room for notes, and encourages you to work through the unique exercises she lists to support you on your healing journey.
Over the Circumstances By Jan Ellis
Over the Circumstances is a book of engaging, relatable, true stories and observations about life that help the reader to learn biblical truths through human experiences. The author shares insights the Holy Spirit has opened to her as she observes the lessons that God has hidden in His creation and the everyday, mundane occurrences of life.
Mile Markers
Women Ready to Rise
By Doreen J. Oberg
By Jenn Sadai
The following story is the author’s account of leaving the Nazarene religion. Rote answers from the Bible could not change the turmoil that erupted Oberg or her family. Leaving her religious roots was anxiety evoking, but Oberg’s story includes more comical moments than horrible. The experiences of becoming a mental health therapist, getting married, and learning how to motorcycle two-up have brought Oberg the greatest surprises in life.
Women Ready to Rise is empowering, thoughtful, and inspiring as twenty-two women share their secrets, stories, and survival voices. All women share their experiences, with each being so different but at the same time, there is a common thread that ties them all together. Their voices will resonate with all women. From suicidal thoughts, depression, extreme anxiety, social anxiety to acceptance of who they are, every reader will walk alongside these women and feel their contagious triumph and power.
The Wisdom Collector Journal By Francisco A. Perez
The Wisdom Collector Journal was created specifically to help you write your own quotes and to collect those that inspire you and stimulate your imagination so you never forget them. I could have easily created an app for you to enter your favorite quote, but unfortunately, it would not have been the same, for you remember the things you write down with your hand better than the things you type in the computer or any smart device. I want to encourage you to become a wisdom seeker, to carry this journal with you anywhere you go, and to share the wisdom you obtain with others so they may benefit from it. Like Jim Rohn said, “Be a collector of good ideas. Keep a journal. If you hear a good idea, capture it, write it down. Don’t trust your memory.” Spanish version is available too!
Jan-Carol Publishing Books
Order these book directly from JCP— for a discounted price and FREE shipping! Call 423-926-9983. (Sale Ends November 30, 2021)
www.Jancarolpublishing.com • www.Amazon.com • www.Barnesandnoble.com 20 | November 2021 | voicemagazineforwomen.com
Join us on our JCP website for a
Black Friday Extravaganza!
Jan-Carol Publishing will be hosting our first annual Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale which will take place November 26th through November 29th. Our Black Friday Extravaganza will include books from a host of talented JCP authors. Plus, JCP is offering free shipping on all purchases!
Snowy Trails A Collection of
SHORT STORIES
Priscilla Arnold • Lori C. Byington Victoria Fletcher • Jan Howery Linda Hudson Hoagland Betty Kossick • Cheryl Livingston
Head to jancarolpublishing.com on Black Friday to join in the excitement and stock up on new books!
SAFE WAYS FOR SENIORS TO VOLUNTEER
C
haritable organizations rely on the efforts of volunteers to meet their missions every day. People of all ages can volunteer, and a great number of volunteers are seniors. The rollout of various COVID-19 vaccines has allowed vaccinated individuals to return to a certain degree of pre-pandemic normalcy. However, the threat posed by strains of the virus like the Delta variant has made some seniors apprehensive about returning to volunteering. Though each individual should consider various factors before returning to volunteering during the pandemic, the following are some options seniors can consider as they aim to safely pitch in once again. • Look for contactless opportunities. Interactions with the people they help and work alongside is what drives many volunteers to lend a helping hand. That’s especially so for seniors whose
Cornelia Laemmli Orth, Music Director
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DEC. 4TH | 3PM | $30
Toy F. Reid Eastman Employee Center, Kingsport, TN
DEC. 5TH | 3PM | $30 Emory & Henry College, Emory, VA
* Please note that Toy F. Reid Eastman Employee Center Auditorium requires the audience to be fully vaccinated for Covid-19 to attend this concert.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW 423.392.8423 | SYMPHONYOFTHEMOUNTAINS.ORG 22 | November 2021 | voicemagazineforwomen.com
children have grown up and moved out. In person interactions may be too risky during the pandemic, but seniors can still volunteer via contactless opportunities. For example, in lieu of delivering meals by hand, seniors who work with organizations such as Meals on Wheels can deliver prepackaged meals outside recipients’ residences. • Pitch in with fundraising. A report from Giving USA released in 2021 revealed that Americans gave more to charity in 2020 than in 2019. That increase came in spite of an economic downturn that saw millions of people lose their jobs or take pay cuts as companies scrambled to deal with lost revenue related to the pandemic. Though giving might have increased in 2020, many nonprofit organizations, including local community theaters, likely suffered due to cancellations and audience restrictions. As a result, many local nonprofit organizations are in need of financial support. Seniors who want to pitch in but stay safe can volunteer to help local organizations raise funds. Seniors can participate in fundraising efforts from the comforts of their own homes. • Offer professional expertise. Many seniors retired after spending decades mastering their crafts, and that experience can be an invaluable resource to local nonprofit organizations. Seniors can offer professional advice and mentor youths remotely via apps like Zoom without putting their physical health at risk. Seniors concerned for their safety can still lend a hand by volunteering with their favorite nonprofit organizations.
How Active Seniors Can Protect Their Vision
R
etirement may be seen as a time to slow down and enjoy some well-earned rest and relaxation, but today’s seniors clearly did not get the memo. Modern seniors look and act a lot different than traditional depictions of retirees. Even the most energetic retirees may still be vulnerable to age-related health complications. For example, the American Optometric Association notes that men and women over the age of 60 may be vulnerable to age-related vision problems. A certain degree of vision loss is natural as men and women age, but that doesn’t mean active seniors have to sit idly by. In fact, there are many ways for active seniors to protect their vision so they can continue to get up and go without having to worry about losing their eyesight. • Make your diet work for you. The AOA notes that a number of eye diseases can develop after an individual turns 60, and some of these conditions can be minimized with wise lifestyle choices. For example, a healthy, nutrient-rich diet can protect vision over the long haul. The National Council On Aging notes that studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in foods like spinach, kale and salmon, can reduce individuals’ risk for age-related eye diseases. Seniors can speak with their physicians about other ways to utilize diet to combat age-related vision problems. • Protect your eyes and look cool at the same time. Active seniors spend lots of time outdoors, and that may have an adverse effect on their vision. The NCOA notes that lengthy exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays can cause both short- and longterm eye damage. Thankfully, such issues are easily avoided if seniors wear sunglasses with UV protection when going outside. Brimmed hats also
can protect the eyes from harmful UV rays. • Be mindful of screen time. Much has been made of how much screen time is healthy for young people. But seniors also are not immune to the potentially harmful effects of spending too much time staring at their phones and other devices. The NCOA recommends seniors employ the 20-20-20 rule in regard to screen usage. Every 20 minutes, look about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This quick exercise can reduce eye strain. An active lifestyle benefits seniors in myriad ways. Seniors should take steps to protect their vision so they can continue to get up and go long after they retire.
November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month Diabetic eye disease, a leading cause of blindness, often has no early warning signs. Early detection, timely treatment, and appropriate follow-up care are the only ways to prevent vision loss. During National Diabetes Month, the National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP) is encouraging you to spread the word about how people with diabetes can protect their vision.
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Stop by today for a tour! 791 Old Gray Station Rd • Gray, TN 423.477.7146 • lifecarecenterofgraytn.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2021 | 23
Medications and the Aging Parent By Cindy K. Sproles
A
ccording to HealthinAging.org, individuals who are older than 65 are prescribed more prescription drugs than their younger peers. Medications control chronic illnesses as well as prevent or maintain more minor issues. It’s no secret that exercise and healthy eating contribute to maintaining good health without medication, but sometimes prescription medications become a necessary evil even with those things in place. Our aging parents face two significant issues pertaining to their medications. First, most seniors do not question the use of the drug with their doctor by asking questions such as, “Is this necessary? How long must the usage continue? Are you sure this is right for me?” Second, seniors do not consider if this new medication will mesh well with other drugs they are currently using. Unfortunately, physicians do not always see all of the medications an individual takes prescribed by other physicians. Individual physicians keep most medical records, and information is not shared among the broader groups of doctors. The question becomes, how do we help monitor the medications and effects of those medications on our aging parents? • Keep a medication log — A medication log can be something as simple as a notepad with all medications listed, when and how they are taken, the date, the prescribing physician, and the reason for the drug. It may seem like a lot of information, but it’s a true lifesaver when the need arises. It’s easy to forget a medication when put on the spot to recall. Having them listed prevents this and helps family members with immediate information at the tip of their fingers. • Verify the addition of a new prescription — Asking questions is vital. Check with the physician to ensure any additional medications will work well with the current medications your loved one is taking. Drug interaction is vital for your aging parent. You want to be sure every medication is necessary. • Ask questions — Always ask questions of the physician and the pharmacist. Are the drugs for long-term use or the short term? Is there a less expensive drug with the same success? What are the side effects, and what warning signs should you watch for in your loved one? Asking these questions can ultimately save the life of your senior should a reaction happen. For example,
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some medications added to a current drug may cause heart issues, depression, or mood changes. We experienced this in our own family when a physician prescribed an antacid for our mother. It did not mesh with the blood pressure medication and launched her into an almost catatonic state. Ask questions to prevent or know what to watch for when new meds are added. • Yearly medication cleanout — Once or twice a year, sort through all medications. Dispose of old medicines no longer in use and verify each prescription is still necessary. Pharmacies today tend to place medications on auto-refill when physicians write them for one year. It may be that your parent no longer requires that medication, and an auto-refill is costing them money and filling their cabinet with unnecessary medication. Seniors tend to obediently continue to take medication even when it is no longer necessary simply because the doctor prescribed it. It’s your job to help keep those things in check and help your parent maintain a healthy life. • Billfold size medication list — Make a small list for a billfold or purse of each medication your parent takes, then keep one in yours too. In the event of an emergency, easily accessed lists for emergency workers are essential. We are fortunate to have access to a multitude of pharmaceuticals to make our quality of life better. Still, medications must be respected and monitored. Help your loved ones keep their medicines in order by ensuring each one is still applicable and necessary. You will save money by not refilling unnecessary drugs, and your aging parents will be protected.
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Cindy K. Sproles is a novelist, speaker, and conference teacher. She is the cofounder of ChristianDevotions.us and the managing editor for Straight Street Books and SonRise Devotionals, imprints of Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas. Visit Cindy at www.cindysproles.com.
A Different Kind of Thanksgiving By Deana Landers www.morningcoffeebeans.com
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hen we all met in St. Augustine, Florida to celebrate Thanksgiving, there was a reason why suggesting a clambake for Thanksgiving did not go over very well with our children. It brought back memories of a traumatic Thanksgiving meal that caught them off guard long ago. Our three children were elementary school age when we spent our first Thanksgiving with their grandparents in Missouri. They lived in a big brick house surrounded by 10 acres of rocky land on a rural road at the Ozark Mountain’s foothills. My father-in-law had two ponds stocked with all kinds of fish. It was an unforgettable moment as I watched him assist the children with casting their line into the water. They were instantly gratified by an unsuspecting “big one” as the fish latched onto their baited hook. However, our youngest son said his most poignant memory of that moment was a little different from mine. It was the fact that he had seen his grandpa feeding the fish with the same fish food that they were using to bait the hook that stood out in his mind. He remembered feeling sorry for the unsuspecting fish as they hungrily devoured their daily meal from the end of a deadly hook without even realizing that they soon would end up being someone’s lunch or dinner. The 10 acres their grandpa owned wasn’t a real farm, but it had the atmosphere of farm life, with the big barn behind the house and chickens constantly pecking on the ground. In addition to the faithful dogs and stray cats dropped off in their yard, they had rabbits — not your ordinary eastern cottontail. These were giant, beautiful, weighty rabbits with lush, shiny coats and curious twitchy noses that sniffed at your fingers when you pushed them through the mesh walls that housed the creatures high off the ground. They were bigger than any rabbits I have ever seen. The children loved going out to the barn and wading through rabbit pellets to stroke their thick fur and poke carrots through the holes. The evening before Thanksgiving, I noticed our youngest son nosing around in the big kitchen. His curious eyes were searching for something that wasn’t there. Finally he said, “Mom, where is the turkey for Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow?” We had asked earlier if we needed to go to the store for the turkey and fixings for the next day’s family dinner, but they had told us not to worry; it was all under control. I told my son that his grandma probably had the turkey in the refrigerator. Later when he could get away with it, he peeked into the fridge to check it out.
As he slid close beside me on the couch, he tugged on my shoulder to share his secret information. “There is no turkey in the refrigerator,” he whispered. Tucking him in bed that night, he asked me how we could have a real Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow if Grandma weren’t thawing out the turkey, as I did every year. As I helped his grandma clean up the dishes, I offered to do whatever I could to get ready for the next day’s dinner, but once again she said no, she had it under control. He was the first one up the following day as he hurried into the kitchen with thick white socks and flannel pajamas. No longer able to control his curiosity and concern, he blurted out, “Grandma, where is the turkey?” She replied, “Don’t worry, it’s coming.” So, we assumed one of the older children was bringing the turkey when they arrived. After breakfast, my mother-in-law disappeared out the back door. The older children were beginning to arrive, but no one had a turkey. All the children played together and didn’t notice when grandma came back inside with a massive pan of clean sliced meat. I watched as she heated the sizeable cast-iron pot. Then suddenly, I realized what we were having for dinner. When the children came in and smelled the meat and all the other trimmings, they said, “Wow, grandma, everything smells good!” But then our son looked through the glass oven door and then the pan on the stove and said, “Where’s the turkey, Grandma?” She replied, “We don’t have turkey. We have a rabbit!” Jay turned to his sister and brother, and the three of them ran out of the back door. Sure enough, the biggest rabbits had been slaughtered and prepared for dinner. Of course, it did not help when their grandma explained that she raised the rabbit for meat. The children had eaten game meat before. Their dad was a deer hunter and filled our freezer was filled with deer meat each year. However, they had never petted or played with the deer before they became dinner. We quietly explained to our children that this was their tradition, and we would enjoy it with them. They ate everything on their plates, except the rabbit, and liked it. Of course, we didn’t adopt the tradition, but it was an exciting experience. One that our children have never forgotten. So needless to say, when our daughter announced that we should have a different kind of Thanksgiving dinner, our son said no, he would buy a turkey.
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Deana Landers, a retired nurse and health educator, is Christian speaker who strives to educate and encourage. She may be contacted at dlanders1511@ gmail.com or 276-780-7355.
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eteran’s Day, which is celebrated annually on November 11, commemorates the hardworking men and women who sacrifice their time and put themselves in harm’s way to defend the country’s core values of freedom and opportunity. While Veteran’s Day certainly is a chance to honor those who have donned the uniform during wars and military installments, it also can be a chance to recognize the unsung heroes of wartime—those who step into roles so that soldiers and strategists can focus their attention elsewhere. Take for example Naomi Parker Fraley. In 1942, Fraley was a machine shop worker at the Naval Air Station in Alameda, Calif. She was one of scores women who worked in factories and shipyards during World War II, helping to produce munitions and war supplies. Parker was 20 years old in 1942 and served as the inspiration for what would become one of the most indelible images of the era, known as “Rosie the Riveter.” Parker unknowingly inspired the iconic image after she was photographed at work bent over an industrial machine in a jumpsuit with her hair tied back in a polka-dot bandana. In 2018, Naomi Parker Fraley died at the age of 96, not nearly the household name she perhaps should have been. Rosie the Riveter helped to tout the contributions of female war employees who were defending America by working on the home front. Rosie was a successful morale-booster, and some may be surprised to learn that Rosie has various incarnations.
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Norman Rockwell’s depiction of a female riveter, which appeared on the cover of the Saturday Evening Post on May 29, 1943, became an iconic staple of that time. Muscular, with a rivet gun on her lap, a sandwich in hand and a boot stomping on a copy of “Mein Kampf” — and timed perfectly to coincide with the release of a song called “Rosie the Riveter” by Redd Evans and John Jacob Loeb — Rosie became a household name. But another Rosie image actually predates Rockwell’s Post cover. Naomi Parker Fraley was reportedly the inspiration for an ad created by a lesser known artist named J. Howard Miller. Miller produced a “We Can Do It!” poster for Westinghouse Electric in 1942 aimed at boosting spirits among the company’s workers. The poster helped to recruit new female personnel, according to scholar James J. Kimble. This Rosie was portrayed in a red bandana with her bent arm flexed, rolling up her shirtsleeve. Both Miller’s and Rockwell’s depictions of female war workers became ingrained in popular culture. Rockwell’s cover art was eventually loaned to the U.S. Department of the Treasury for use in war bond drives for the duration of the war. Miller’s version has been emulated for generations and still epitomizes a strong female presence in the workforce. This Veteran’s Day is a prime time to delve into American wartime history, with interesting stories like the origins of Rosie the Riveter, and pay homage to all of the heroes that help ensure America’s reputation as a great nation.
I Am Only One But I Am One By Jim Liebelt For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. –Ephesians 2:10 NKJV Interpretation: For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared for us in advance to do. –Ephesians 2:10 Consider the following quote: I am only one, but I am one; I cannot do everything But I can do something. What I can do, I ought to do And what I ought to do By the grace of God, I will do. –Canon Farrar
We live in a culture that constantly shines a spotlight on the famous: pretty or especially gifted people (or both!) We live in a celebrity-focused culture. Just think about all of the media devoted to celebrities. It would be great if the church was immune from this culture, but it isn’t. Even the Christian community tends to highlight our best people; from musicians to speakers, to those involved in doing incredible ministry. While I’m not saying that spotlighting is wrong, I am concerned that there are many of us who become disheartened because we know our efforts don’t approach the skills or successes of those of the extremely gifted. I am concerned that some of us give up attempting to make a difference when we think we can’t measure up. True, we may never be celebrities in the eyes of the world or even within the Christian community. But, God doesn’t call us to be famous. He calls us to love one another. He calls us to give ourselves away to serve others. The needs of our world are great, and we cannot do everything. Still, as part of the body of Christ, we have a unique and invaluable role to play. God has purposely designed us for accomplishing good works in His name. Stop playing the comparison game. Anyone who plays that game loses. There will always be someone else who does things better or is more effective. We are called to serve the Lord. Our desire should be solely to please Him. Serve Him today to the best of your abilities. Your service will be a sacrifice of praise to the King. www.homeword.com
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GET KIDS ON A HEALTHY TRACK
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ounger school-aged children have been among the hardest hit during the pandemic. A study published in September 2021 found the percentage of obese children and teens increased to 22 percent compared with 19 percent before the pandemic. To reverse course, parents, guardians and educators can focus on helping children become more physically fit. The following are a few ways to do so. • Encourage participation in sports or other physical activities. Sports practices, games, competitions, and other activities may keep children moving for an hour or more several days per week. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics states that only 25 percent of children get the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Emphasize a fun activity with a focus on movement that produces shortness of breath, body warmth and sweat. These are indicators that the heart rate is really pumping. • Use exercise as a reward and not a punishment. Make exercise something kids can look forward to. Reward a job well done on a test with extra time biking with friends or a hiking trip to a scenic national park,. Kids will be begin to associate exercise with fun. • Offer a variety of foods. Kids who eat a variety of foods are more likely to get the nutrients the body needs, according to Kids Health® by Nemours. These healthy foods should include at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, with an emphasis on vegetables.
• Limit screen time. Children may be inclined to entertain themselves by heading for the television, mobile phone or tablet first, especially after a yearplus of being stuck indoors. But parents can make a concerted effort to limit kids’ screen time in favor of more physically challenging pursuits. • Teach healthy eating habits. A Harris Poll survey conducted on behalf of the American Psychological Association found that 61 percent of respondents age 18 and older reported a median weight gain of 15 pounds during the pandemic. Teach children that weight loss is accomplished when more calories are burned than consumed. Pay attention to portion sizes and explain how beverages like fruit juices can be sneaky sources of extra calories. Children may need a little extra help getting fit, especially if they gained weight during the pandemic. Teaching healthy habits now can help kids enjoy healthy futures.
Daylight Saving Time 2021 ends on Sunday, Nov. 7. So plan on changing your clocks on the night of Saturday, Nov. 6, turning them back a full hour. 28 | November 2021 | voicemagazineforwomen.com
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The goal of Sudoku is to fill a 9×9 grid with numbers so that each row, column and 3×3 section contain all of the digits between 1 and 9.
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CLUES ACROSS 1. Nuclear undersea weapon 5. President of Syria al-__ 10. Partner to flows 14. “Snow” in Welsh 15. Famed Mexican painter 16. Song 17. ticks outward from the crown 18. Doddering 19. Resist authority (slang) 20. Antsy 22. Wrath 23. Spills the beans 24. Past 27. The woman 30. One has 24 hours 31. Talk 32. It can sting 35. Astronomy unit 37. Halfway 38. Chinese dynasty 39. Australian river 40. Software to transfer audio (abbr.) 41. Fabric 42. Crucifix 43. Defunct European economic group 44. “Hotel California” rockers 45. Michael Knight’s car 46. Actress Ryan 47. A digital tape recording of sound 48. Insecticide 49. Scientific instrument 52. Golden-__ corn 55. Israeli city __ Aviv 56. Sword 60. Ottoman military title 61. Aromatic plants 63. Cold wind 64. Large, semiaquatic reptile (slang) 65. Political unit 66. Indiscreetly reveal secrets 67. Comfort food dish 68. Actress Zellweger 69. Romanian city
CLUES DOWN 1. One point east of southeast 2. Italian monetary unit 3. Warship prison 4. Tropical American tree 5. Alias 6. Normal or sound powers of mind 7. English county 8. Not compatible with 9. Female deer 10. Not late 11. La __ Tar Pits, Hollywood 12. “Jupiter’s Legacy” actress Leslie 13. Impudence 21. Advises 23. Founder of Babism 25. A baglike structure in a plant or animal 26. Male parent 27. A type of plug 28. Capital of Vietnam 29. Fungal disease 32. Shelter 33. Finished 34. Excrete 36. Unhappy 37. Partner to cheese 38. Coffee receptacle 40. Spend time dully 41. Makes full 43. Snakelike fish 44. Take in solid food 46. __ student, learns healing 47. A way to take away 49. Impart a lesson to 50. “Transformers” actress Fox 51. Spiritual leader 52. Every one of two or more things 53. Indian city 54. 17th stars 57. Weapon 58. Amounts of time 59. Isodor __, American Nobel physicist 61. Soviet Socialist Republic 62. Witness
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