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: Haley Johnson Bristol, VA as the winner in the January Hot Hunk Hunt!
Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry! July Hot Hunk Hunt! The April “Hot Hunk” was
Where
In February 2025, Voice Magazine for Women celebrates 21 years of representing women and businesses in the region. The company (JCP) has served the region with a print magazine for 21 years and has contributed to the local region as an established local business. See article on page 6.
via Instagram /jasonsegel
VOICE Speaks
In February 2025, Voice Magazine for Women celebrates 21 years of representing women and businesses in the region. The company (JCP) has served the region with a print magazine for 21 years and has contributed to the local region as an established local business. This is a benchmark for our continued support, growth, and success.
Through blood, sweat and tears, and all the naysayers, the magazine has proven its value to the region in the print version of the magazine. With changes in print and technology, Voice Magazine has grown with its online readership. With our 21 years of seeing changes, challenges, and concerns, the magazine has always been supported by our faithful readers and advertisers, and our contributing writers. All of you are a part of our past growth, and we ask that you continue to be a part of our future growth.
As of today, the cost of printing has been one of the biggest hurdles to cross. As the costs increase, we must broaden our online presence and encourage our readers to find us online. In 2025, we must face the necessity to change with the new challenges. Voice Magazine will continue to make changes to meet those challenges to ensure our longevity. Please support us by being a part of our online presence. Sign up to receive our newsletter, sign up for our book blog, and listen to our weekly podcast, both of which are called Bookmarked . Find us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.
One of our past growing moments as a company was our branching out into publishing books. JCP purchased Mountain Girl Press almost 14 years ago, and with that purchase, the magazine and JCP not only has survived, but also it continues to thrive. Visit our websites, www.voicemagazineforwomen.com and www. jancarolpublishing.com. On JCP’s website, visit our online bookstore, where you will always find special discounts on select books. Thank you to all of you for 21 years of support — to all the fans, writers, advertisers, businesses, authors, readers, and all those behind-the-scenes supporters for your continued support of Voice Magazine for Women and JCP. As we move into a new direction and a new year, our motto is — JCP will change, prosper, and thrive in 2025. We want each of you to travel with us on our new journey this year.
Also, thank you to the loyal and dedicated JCP team!
Verse of the month: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” — Philippians 4:13 KJV
Thought of the month: “Do not judge me by my successes; judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” — Nelson Mandela
Celebrating our 21st anniversary! We wouldn’t be here and there without all of you!
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
Draco Bailey Communications Director & Publishing Assistant communications@jancarolpublishing.com
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.
Janie C. Jessee, Editor-in-Chief
Pam Blair Ken Heath April Hensley Raven Howell
Jami Lee Cindy Sproles
TCelebrates
By Allison Chudina
wenty-two years ago, Janie C. Jessee was not yet CEO and owner of Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.
Rather, she owned a women’s consignment store in Elizabethton, Tenn.
Jessee had a background in banking, as well as print and retail sales, and she had owned the consignment shop for approximately three years when someone approached her with the idea of starting a women’s magazine for the local region.
Thus, Voice Magazine for Women was born. But it would take some time for everything to fully form and fall into place.
“Since there was a women’s magazine in Asheville, North Carolina, it seemed to be a doable endeavor to start one here in the Tri-Cities,” Jessee said. “I researched other communities comparable to the Tri-Cities, and many of the communities had a local women’s magazine. I decided to move forward with the idea.”
In December 2003, the corporation now known as JanCarol Publishing, Inc., was formed. “Once the company was officially formed,” Jessee said, “I put pen to paper with a plan for the creation of the magazine.”
Jessee wanted to introduce the magazine to businesses with a prototype or sample. A friend of Jessee’s who had retired from the print industry offered suggestions on how to seek the services of a graphic designer and a printer. “It was a process of coordinating schedules and ideas, but in a couple of weeks, I had a prototype and used it to contact businesses to sell advertisements in the magazine,” Jessee said.
Jessee explained that the businesses she contacted showed interest in her ideas but had a concern regarding how the magazine would be distributed. Jessee wanted the magazine to be free to readers and supported by advertisers. In order for Jessee to distribute the magazine to readers, she knew that she needed several wire racks displayed at businesses where women frequented. “I also knew that being a new publication in the region would be overlooked if the magazines were simply placed on a rack,” Jessee said. “I needed a way to have the magazine sit upright in the rack and do it on a budget.”
Jessee explained that traditional metal racks were expensive and would not allow for the magazines to sit upright. But she had an idea: a wire roller cart. “I went to a Dollar General and purchased the cart,” Jessee said. “At the time, it was $4.99. I ignored the enclosed instructions and put the wire rack together myself to have the magazines displayed upright. It worked!”
As Jessee put these racks together with zip ties, her design improved, and the roller cart became a stand to hold the magazines. “That was the beginning of the white racks, and the magazines were upright and caught people’s eyes
Janie C. Jessee
PHOTO BY
as they walked by,” Jessee said. “The magazines were being picked up, and this created a demand.”
Jessee hired someone to distribute the magazines monthly, and with a strategic monthly route, the magazine began getting attention in the newly created magazine stands.
When asked what Jessee learned from that very first year of publishing, she said, “Readers wanted local information, and I could not write all the articles.”
Jessee decided to contact the publisher of a women’s magazine in Asheville and ask if she would be willing to meet and have a consultation regarding publishing a women’s magazine. During that consultation, the publisher gave Jessee some advice. She had local writers provide the articles for her magazine, and these contributors were compensated with a free ad for their business or a business of their choice. The publisher went on to say that her women’s magazine met once a month to discuss ideas for future articles.
businesses’ products or services because they love Voice Magazine and want to show support to help keep it going.
Jessee says some of her favorite issues published over the years are the ones in which Voice Magazine highlights other businesses with a “business spotlight,” focusing on a particular woman in business and her accomplishments.
“There are so many small, women-owned businesses in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia, and as a small business owner, it is a wonderful feeling to give them the spotlight they so well deserve,” Jessee said. “And our readers really love that, too.”
Jessee is often asked if it is difficult to continuously create new or fresh content. “One would think that would be the challenge, but it isn’t,” Jessee said. “The challenge is keeping up with the changing world and keeping each generation interested in print. That is the biggest task for any business in print.”
The information gained from Jessee’s consultation with the Asheville publisher was the foundation of the magazine’s growth regarding local articles. Jessee proceeded to contact a few local businesswomen to ask if they would be interested in forming an informal board that would meet monthly to discuss articles and magazine ideas, as well as suggestions for the magazine’s growth. Everyone Jessee contacted committed their involvement for one year.
“We met at different locations each month, and these women provided wonderful ideas, suggestions, and supported the magazine,” Jessee said. “Not only did they play a major role in the overall growth of the magazine, but also we created a camaraderie that still remains today.”
Jessee says that she carries a lot of wonderful memories associated with Voice Magazine from the past 21 years. “I have a lot of favorite memories, but it is when someone takes time to call the office just to share how much they love the magazine that will never be forgotten,” she said. “I have women tell me they’ve picked up every copy since the first magazine we published. Even today, I received thank you cards in the mail from people who love the magazine. These acknowledgments are priceless and will always be appreciated.”
More often than not, Jessee said readers will tell her how they visit the advertising section in the magazine to purchase
Jessee continues to search for innovative ideas to keep Voice Magazine available in both print and online, giving advertisers double exposure. She explained that the full magazine is available to read entirely online, and it includes links to advertisers’ websites by clicking on their ad. “This gives businesses the best of both worlds,” Jessee said. “Print is still alive for the magazine, and local businesses sometimes lose vision of keeping print and letting it work in conjunction with an online presence.”
Overall, Jessee hopes that the love for Voice Magazine for Women will continue to grow in the future. “We have been able to introduce local, women-owned businesses and the Appalachian region to readers of all ages and all locations,” Jessee said. “Voice Magazine was the first magazine in this area for women and was completely supported by all age groups, and that legacy will never die. I am very proud of that.”
The first issue of Voice Magazine for Women in 2004.
By Raven Howell
This month at the magazine, we’re bringing 21 balloons to the party!
Voice Magazine for Women is celebrating its 21-year anniversary, and publisher/CEO, Janie Jessee couldn’t be more excited.
“ When I started the magazine, I looked at it as a month-to-month magazine and would only make out one-year goals. As the magazine grew, I found myself needing to start planning for the next five years, and so on. It’s so hard to believe that it is celebrating 21 years. Dare I look ahead for another five years, or do I plan for another twenty-one years? Maybe I should!” she exclaims with cheer.
Janie C. Jessee, a native of Southwest Virginia, owns both Voice Magazine for Women and Jan-Carol Publishing Inc. (JCP), a progressive small press publisher. Though now the magazine celebrates success and longevity, there were initial challenges. Just like many new endeavors, for the first few months, Janie says, the magazine struggled to find itself. Still, she didn’t give up and instead, developed a new strategy.
once I did, the word “voice” seemed to give it personality, and it came alive! So, the magazine’s personality continued to change, and the readership changed.”
She contemplates, “When you think about twenty-one years ago, that twenty-one-year-old reading the magazine is now forty-two years old. So, the magazine had to know its readership to change with each year to keep it fresh and interesting, and to keep the readers entertained!”
Just as wedding anniversaries, birthday anniversaries, and even sobriety or friendship anniversaries are celebrated, a magazine anniversary is very special, too. Janie reveals, “I keep copies of the anniversary issues in a special frame. Each anniversary, the Voice Magazine for Women team celebrates together, knowing we all have done something very special, and it will always be a part of who we are. ”
“ The anniversary issue means that the magazine has had a long history in print. I am so thankful for all the fans, supporters, and the people who supported it every month,” she says. “Twenty-one is the age of being accepted as an adult, which means this anniversary of Voice Magazine for Women is all grown up and ready for more changes! ”
As an author herself, Janie writes under the name, Jan Howery. Her stories have been included in anthologies, short story collections, and fashion and health columns. Her debut novel, Gone Before Breakfast , was released in 2023. Stay tuned for the second one, which she’s presently working on.
{Raven Howell writes stories and poetry for children. Her books have garnered honors such as Creative Child Magazine’s Best Book of the Year, Mom’s Choice Award, and US Book of Review’s Most Recommended. Her poetry is published in children’s magazines, she writes the “Book Bug” column for Story Monsters Ink, and authors storybooks for ReadingGate. Her book, Seasons, was published in 2023 by Jan-Carol Publishing. Find out more at www.ravenhowell.com.
8 Unique Gift Ideas
Gifting is a key component of Valentine’s Day celebrations every February 14. Valentine’s Day is a mere month and a half after the holiday season, so ideas for more thoughtful gifts may be in short supply. Let these Valentine’s day gift ideas serve as inspiration.
1. Custom painted portrait: Many local artists paint beautiful portraits from photographs. Find an image you like and have it made into an even more impressive work of art.
2. Doll likeness: The well known Funko POP! brand known for its pop culture figurines enables customers to create likenesses of themselves or loved ones. You can have custom dolls made in your sweetheart’s likeness.
3. Preserved roses: While fresh roses may only last a few days to a week, preserved or “eternity” roses are treated and specially packaged so they can endure and serve as lasting, welcome reminders of Valentine’s Day love.
4. Journal or scrapbook: A decorative scrapbook or journal enables your special someone to keep track of moments spent together and key milestones.
5. First date map: Gift a framed picture of a map marked with the specific location of your first date, whether it was a restaurant, park or museum.
6. Birthstone jewelry: Jewelry is a popular gift on Valentine’s Day. Make gifts even more special by finding pieces that include your special someone’s birthstone. The American Gem Society offers a handy chart at www.americangemsociety.org/ birthstones/.
7. Experiential gifts: Experiential gifts may be just what is needed this Valentine’s Day. Some options include a couple’s cooking class, tickets to a sports game or concert, a vacation to a romantic locale, or a day or night out on the town.
8. Prepare a favorite recipe: Learn what your loved one enjoys eating the most and then recreate the recipe as a thoughtful gift and dinner at home. This Valentine’s Day, people can consider these unique thoughtful gift ideas.
Plant Lovers
By April Hensley
February is the month of love, flowers, and sweet treats. Some of my favorite things! It’s also one of the coldest months in our area. Valentine’s Day, roses, and red hearts give some color and excitement during the dreary weather.
Valentine’s Day is very special for gardeners. We are starting to dream of gardens and growing things, and all the while, stores are filling up with beautiful and colorful blooms. It helps give us a boost to trudge through just a little longer. Less than five weeks after the holiday is the first day of spring on March 20.
If your Valentine loves plants, has a green thumb or a green thumb in training, they are going to be easy to buy a gift for. Red may be the color of Valentine’s Day but for gardeners, green is also a color of love. I scoped out the area’s floral departments. There were so many ideas to choose from. Garden flags, cut flowers, ceramic planters, decorative lawn ornaments, and pavers are just a few things available.
I also noticed a lot of potted plants. Cut flowers are stunning but not very long-lasting and get so expensive during the holiday. If you want something more memorable or want to do things a little differently, a potted plant may be a good choice instead of or in addition to cut flowers.
Here are some potted plants that would make a beautiful gift that will
last for years. You can add a pretty bow, decorative wrap, or just let the beauty of the plant take the lead.
• Potted mini roses come in many amazing colors.
• Succulents like String of Hearts have elegant and unusual shapes and are easy to maintain.
• If you are buying a gift for your cat, nothing would be cuter than a Chia Pet cat grass planter. It comes with everything to grow healthy cat grass for your beloved kitty.
• Chia Pets make fun gifts for two-legged Valentines too.
• Philodendron and Sweetheart Hoya have heartshaped leaves for a romantic gift.
• Begonia vine and sweet potato vine are stunning in a hanging basket and can be moved outside during warm weather.
• A potted Hosta or hydrangea is a nice gift to enjoy now and transplant after the ground thaws.
A few other romantic beauties include:
• Heart ferns
• Peace lilies
• Spider plants
• Monstera
{• Orchids
• African violets
• Air plants
April Hensley works as an office manager and is an avid gardener, writer, and greenhouse hobbyist. Her debut book, Four Seasons: Gardening & Growing in Zone 7 , is available now. April loves the outdoors and is passionate about animal welfare and the environment. She can be reached at aprils1105@embarqmail.com.
Semolina and Almond Biscotti
Yields 12 to 16 cookies
1 cup sugar
1⁄2 cup melted butter
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch salt
2 3⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sliced almonds
1⁄2 cup semolina flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
Optional: 10 ounces dark chocolate to melt for dipping
1. Preheat oven to 325 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer, cream the sugar, butter and eggs until light and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
2. Add the vanilla and salt. Mix to incorporate. Add the all-purpose flour, almonds, semolina flour, and baking powder. Mix until well combined, but don’t overmix.
3. Turn the dough out onto the prepared baking sheet. Pat gently to form one long loaf of dough roughly 14 to 16 inches long and 5 to 6 inches wide. Bake 30 minutes.
4. Remove the loaf from the oven and allow to cool 5 to 6 minutes before using a long knife to cut the loaf gently into 12 to 16 cookies.
5. Lay each cookie on its side and bake another 20 minutes, flipping the cookies midway through.
6. Cool completely to achieve that signature crunch. The centers will be a bit soft if eaten warm. These
are perfect for dunking in coffee, tea or hot chocolate.
7. Optional: Melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts and gently dip half of each biscotti into it lengthwise. Flip the biscotti chocolate-side-up onto a sheet tray and allow the chocolate to set.
Source: Butter, Flour, Sugar, Joy by Danielle Kartes
Air Fryer Doughnuts
Yields 8
Doughnuts:
1 (8-count) can large flaky biscuits
Colorful sprinkles
(optional)
Vanilla Glaze:
1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Pinch of kosher salt
Splash of whole milk
Pink gel food coloring, as needed (optional)
Maple Glaze:
1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1 Tbsp. maple syrup
1/2 tsp. maple extract (optional)
Splash of whole milk
1. For the doughnuts: Open the biscuits, and use a small circle cutter or a bottle cap to cut out the doughnut holes from each biscuit.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F, if required.
3. Working in batches if necessary, air fry the doughnuts and holes until golden brown, 3 1/2 to 4 minutes. Remove to a cooling rack and let cool completely, about 20 minutes.
4. For the vanilla glaze: Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla, salt, and enough milk to make a smooth, pourable consistency. Add food coloring as desired; set aside.
5. For the maple glaze: In another small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, maple extract, if using, and enough milk to make a smooth, pourable consistency; set aside.
6. To glaze the doughnuts, dunk the doughnuts and holes into the desired glaze. Lift out, letting the excess glaze drip back into the bowl, and transfer to the cooling rack. Sprinkle the tops with sprinkles, if desired. These are best when eaten immediately.
1. Into a 12-ounce microwave-safe mug, add the cocoa powder, flour, sugar, espresso granules (if using), and salt. Stir with a fork. Add the milk, butter, and vanilla, and stir with a fork until smooth. Stir in 3 tablespoons of the chocolate chips. Use a damp paper towel to wipe excess batter off the sides of the mug.
2. Microwave for 2 minutes 45 seconds on high, then sprinkle remaining 1 tablespoon chocolate chips on top. Let the brownie stand for 2 minutes before eating. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Love is in the air come February, when plenty of sweethearts enjoy romantic evenings together. When the Valentine’s Day meal is through, it is prime time for something sweet. Often, individuals feel they have to put away the wine from dinner and switch over to coffee or tea at this point in the meal. However, with a little knowledge of how to pair wine with dessert, Valentine’s revelers can continue the celebration through this final course.
According to Wine Folly, when pairing wine with dessert or other foods, the secret is to think of wine as an ingredient that will add a new flavor profile. Generally speaking, when it comes to choosing the best wines for desserts, a sweet wine is preferable as the sweetness in the wine will match the sugar in the dessert, suggests the wine resource Vin Yang. Here are some additional pairing pointers.
• A darker dessert usually requires a darker wine, as the wine should have a similar intensity to the dessert.
• The wine should be sweeter than the food in most cases.
• The flavors in the wine should match the flavors in the food.
• Chocolate and caramel are best paired with a sweet or fruity red wine, as dry wines may taste
too bitter against chocolate due to the tannins found in both the wine and chocolate. Port, Sherry, Marsala, and Zinfandel are good options.
• Mild, buttery, or sweet vanilla desserts work best with white wines, including sparkling wines. Muscat, off-dry Rieslings, and Prosecco are some ideas.
• Keep in mind that very sweet desserts or those with fruits, like cobblers or shortcakes, may benefit from a burst of acidity. A drier Riesling may work or a Vouvray Brut.
Those who may be unsure of how to pair their desserts with wine can always speak with a wine retailer or a trusted restaurant sommelier for suggestions on wines for an extra-special Valentine’s Day.
4 Interesting Facts About the Month of February
1. The name “February” comes from the Latin word “februa,” which means “to cleanse.” The ancient Romans celebrated a festival of purification and atonement known as Februalia, and historians believe that celebration, which lasted a month, occurred around the time of year that the month of February now takes place.
2. February is arguably the most unique month on the calendar thanks to the phenomenon of the leap year. According to NASA, the Earth takes approximately 365 days and six hours to orbit the sun and approximately 24 hours (one day) to rotate on its axis. NASA notes that most years are rounded down to 365 days, though that does not erase the extra six hours in each year. So approximately every four years an extra day is added to the calendar in February. That will actually take place in 2024, which should excite anyone whose birthday happens to be February 29.
3. Speaking of February 29, many a notable event has taken place on that unusual date over the years. On February 29, 1720, the Queen of Sweden, Ulrika Eleonora, abdicated her throne in favor of her husband, who became King Frederick I a little less than a month after his wife’s abdication. On February 29, 1940, actress Hattie McDaniel became the first African American to win an Academy Award. And on February 29, 1996, the Siege of Sarajevo officially ended, marking the end of a conflict that had lasted 1,425 days.
4. Though it’s typically only 28 days, February still provides many opportunities to celebrate. February is Black History Month in both the United States and Canada, and has recently been observed in Ireland and the United Kingdom as well. February also features Mardi Gras and “Fat Tuesday,” the final, and often festive, feast day before the Christian season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday. American history buffs also have plenty of reasons to celebrate in February, as the month marks the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (February 12), Susan B. Anthony (February 15) and George Washington (February 22), among others.
TAppalachian Nonprofit “PAGE”
Earn while growing your professional network
Offering Summer College Internships
By Allison Chudina
his summer, an Appalachian initiative aims to educate and empower girls so they can become leaders.
The Partnership for Appalachian Girls’ Education (PAGE) — an educational nonprofit founded in 2010 that helps create new ladders of opportunity for girls — is offering women in college the chance to learn and mentor. PAGE offers many different programs that begin in the summer prior to a girl’s 6 th grade year and continues through the end of 12 th grade, as well as programs for college-age students.
I am grateful for the way that PAGE empowered me to be a leader and a problem-solver.
This summer, PAGE is offering eight-week college internships from June 3–July 25 in Madison County, N.C., in the Blue Ridge Mountains. PAGE’s goal is to create a collaborative experience in which each team member has an opportunity for leadership and learning.
PAGE is a place where collaborative creation was encouraged. They were so incredibly supportive. I ended up loving it so much that I came back for a second year.”
- Amy Stemman, PAGE Intern ‘21 & ‘22
Maia Surdam, PAGE’s programs director, said they have recently broadened their search to invite anyone who attends a university or college in the region. “I have been working with college interns at PAGE since 2018, so I’ve had the privilege of working with many talented, kind, and inspiring young people since then,” Surdam said. “These days, we hire between four to five college students who have a connection to Appalachia to serve as interns in our Summer Program. We invite anyone who attends a university in the region to apply, as well as people who are from Appalachia or have a special relationship to this area.”
This internship is a chance for college students to connect with the younger PAGE participants and “serve as mentors to them,” Surdam said. “Interns often share their own educational journeys with the girls and offer inspiration in a myriad of ways. Most interns, for example, lead literature circles with small groups of PAGE girls, so they connect around reading, conversation, and creative expression.”
Engage in hands-on education in STEAM, literacy, and humanities
Other college interns, she explained, work with PAGE’s High School Fellows and help them articulate their future goals and plan for what lies ahead after they graduate. “We call this ‘Future Pathways’ since they dream about their futures and consider the steps they can take to achieve their goals,” Surdam said.
Lead projects such as storytelling, exploring foodways, studying insects, and teaching tech to adolescent girls
Enhance your leadership skills & develop expertise through focused roles
Surdam added that college interns are also supported by professional educators who work with PAGE. “Like our Literature Program Coordinator, Amy Stemann, who happens to be a Berea College alumni and former PAGE intern, and Dr. Cathryn Hughes-Barnett, who is an ELA Teacher and PAGE’s Future Pathways Coordinator,” Surdam said. “In other words, the interns provide mentorship to the younger participants but also receive mentorship and professional development through our supportive staff who work with them all summer.”
The application deadline this year was Jan. 31, but Surdam encourages Appalachian girls who are interested to check back again later in the year for opportunities in summer 2026.
“We have had plenty of interns over the years who have continued to stay involved with PAGE in other ways, so the internship is an investment in their future as well,” Surdam said. “We are always excited to meet and then get to know the unique intern cohort each summer.”
To learn more about PAGE’s programs, visit their website, pageprograms.com, or email Surdam at maia. surdam@pageprograms.com.
C o n t a c t
Programs Director maia.surdam@pageprograms.com pageprograms.com
YWCA Seeking Nominations for Annual Tribute to Women Awards
YWCA NETN and SWVA is now accepting nominations for its 34 th annual YW Tribute to Women. Since 1992, YWCA has used this prestigious award to recognize exceptional women in the region who embody the YWCA mission to empower women, eliminate racism, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.
“Once honored, forever inspired,” said Vanessa Bennett from the Kingsport Chamber, 2023 Tribute Award Recipient and 2024 Tribute to Women committee member. “As a former recipient of the Tribute to Women, I’ve experienced firsthand the power of celebrating women. It’s not just about recognition; it’s about amplifying voices, igniting change, and paving the way for a future where every woman’s contribution is valued and celebrated.”
Nominations may be made by any organization, business, or community group for women who exemplify excellence in one of these five categories:
• Healthcare: The nominee’s compassion and dedication drive her commitment to individual, family, and community wellness.
• Business/Finance: The nominee’s innovation fuels the success of her industry while empowering her community economically.
• Steam/Education: The nominee’s excellence in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and/or Mathematics benefits her students, institution, and region.
• Mission Impact: The nominee’s advocacy and initiatives for positive change impact women, children, and people of color in significant ways.
• Community Engagement: The nominee’s commitment to investing resources for the betterment of the community shines through the generosity of her true servant’s heart.
Candidates should be leaders who have experienced significant growth and/or achievement in their areas of expertise and must reside or work in the YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia service area.
Judges residing outside the states of Tennessee and Virginia will select Tribute recipients to be presented with an award at a banquet held in their honor in May 2025. “Tribute to Women is an excellent opportunity to honor leaders, staff, and volunteers for their impactful contributions to their workplace or community,” said Kathy Waugh, CEO.
The nomination form and instructions are available online at www.ywcatnva.org/nominations2025 or may be requested by emailing tribute@ywcatnva.org or phoning 423968-9444. Nominations must be received by 11:59 p.m. on Saturday, February 15, 2025, to be eligible for consideration.
Off-road Adventure in Sedona
By Pam Blair
The beautiful resort town of Sedona, Arizona is well known for its stunning red rocks and craggy peaks, so we were excited to book an off-road jeep tour to see it. We didn’t expect Sedona to be colder than it was back home, but a rare storm that brought freezing temperatures, rain, and snow coincided perfectly with the day our tour was scheduled. We checked in and soon learned the Forest Service had closed all the back roads except for one. The other passengers had canceled due to the weather, although the company told us they had one driver who was willing to go.
ever more tightly as we vaulted over a jagged rock that almost threw me out of the jeep.
We hadn’t come this far for nothing, so we climbed into the open jeep and huddled on seats behind the driver, who explained “I’ve been doing this for a long time and this road will show you rock formations up close and personal.” We took off and hadn’t gone 10 yards before I was bounced off my seat, only then realizing the implications of off-roading in rocky terrain. I grabbed the seatback in front of me and hung on for dear life, which I did for the remainder of the trip.
“The biggest problem up here is rollovers,” explained Bob, our chatty driver. “We get people who don’t know what they’re doing, and we try to help, but it takes big equipment to pull them out of these back roads.” Thus comforted, I held on
“We’re lucky that it stopped raining for a moment because you’ll get a great photo at the next ridge.” Bob was pleased about our good fortune and when the jeep lurched to a stop, we tumbled out and the view really was amazing. Those famous red rocks stood like silent sentinels all around us and we caught glimpses of distant mountains through the mist. Being careful not to slip in the river of mud at our feet, we enjoyed some quiet contemplation of the view until Bob said, “Oh, look up there! The snow cover is dropping.” A strange fog-like cloud was descending from the snowy mountaintops, like a rolling ocean of bad news. Bob was excited. “It’s going to get really dangerous now and they will close this road as soon as we get back.”
Lacking any other choices, we climbed back in the jeep, and with a flourish, Bob spun the steering wheel and positioned us at the top of a long, steep gully slick with more red mud and deep ruts, no doubt left by those poor souls who had rolled over. “And now!” he announced with great fanfare, “We’re going down the River of Doom!” I spoke up politely. “You know, I think we’ve had enough of a thrill for today.” Bob ignored my plea as he positioned the jeep and flashed me a wicked grin before we rocketed down that perilous incline with numerous heart-stopping moments of wonder, and then the jeep slowed to a crawl and crab-walked the rest of the way down.
It seemed like forever, but we survived and yes, we were certainly lucky that one road was still open that day. I do plan to return to Sedona, even more intent on seeing that spectacular place when the weather is perfectly fine. There will be no jeep rides, however.
{Pam Blair is a former medical librarian and communications manager who gets nervous when she doesn’t have something to read. She loves descriptive writing and has authored and edited a book and numerous other publications. Contact her at pblair919@aol.com.
Submit your Frightful Short Stories to These Haunted Hills
Jan-Carol Publishing’s These Haunted Hills series has produced six frightening editions since debuting in the fall of 2017. Each anthology is filled with stories that indulge readers’ curiosity for the supernatural from an array of accomplished authors. These Haunted Hills: Book 7 is set for publication in autumn 2025.
Stories submitted to the seventh edition of JCP’s haunting anthology collection should follow the theme of spooky or supernatural stories set in the Appalachian region. Stories must be fiction and should be between 1500 and 3500 words. Please include with your submission a short author bio. Author bios should be no more than 50 words and should be written in third person.
The submission fee per story is $25, and authors are allowed to submit a max of two stories. You may call the office at 423.926.9983 with a credit card number or mail a check to JCP at P.O. Box 701, Johnson City, TN, 37605.
Authors accepted to the anthology will receive three free books upon publication and can order additional copies at wholesale pricing.
The deadline for submissions is May 31, 2025. Send your submissions to submissions@jancarolpublishing.com. Join the host of talented writers to take part in our most beloved anthology series!
Celebrate the Holidays by Joining JCP’s First Christmas Anthology
JCP is now accepting submissions for our first holiday-themed short story collection, Christmas All Year Long: An Anthology of Holly Jolly Tales . Christmas All Year Long will join JCP’s other in-house anthologies, including their popular These Haunted Hills series and their Appalachian-inspired series featuring titles such as Daffodil Dreams and Scattered Flowers . Other titles in JCP’s anthologies include Snowy Trails and Steamy Creek: A Cozy Romance Anthology . Stories submitted to Christmas All Year Long should be themed for the holiday season and must be fiction. Stories should have between 1500 and 3500 words. Please include with
your submission a short author bio. Author bios should be no more than 50 words and should be written in third person.
Authors may submit up to two stories for a fee of $25 per story. You may call the office at 423.926.9983 with a credit card number or mail a check to JCP at P.O. Box 701, Johnson City, TN, 37605.
Accepted authors will receive three free copies of Christmas All Year Long and can order additional copies at wholesale pricing.
The deadline for submissions is June 30, 2025. Send your submissions to submissions@ jancarolpublishing.com.
than four centuries ago, around eastern Ohio, the re was a tribe in the Mahoning River
called the Salt Springs. Two men were being considered by the rest of the tribe to succeed Big Hand, the aging chief. Ghost Hawk is a story of rivalry between Dark Moon and Red Eagle for political and personal gain. It is a story of love, violence, and dishonor.
Kathryn Raaker & Robert Taggart
Valley
Historical fiction about rivalry and revenge
NEW RELEASES OUT NOW!
Finding Peace in the Promise: A Memoir of Walking with Intention
Written by Aubrie Abernethy
This story evolved from a visualization I had as I struggled to find a way to lean more consciously into the last quarter of the century of my birth. What I sought was a healthier way to live, so I could be more fully present with my family and friends. I realized that intentional walking helped to clear my headspace, creating space to examine my life. Three threads wove through this tapestry of intentionality: walking with intention personally , walking with intention for intention to inspire
Online readers: click
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.
The Tooth Fairy Has a Problem
Written by Neil Wollman, Kim Johanson, and Norma Nelson
The Adventures of Allie & Molly: A Series of Stories About a Girl and Her Dog
Written by Patricia Hitchcock
Illustrated by Patricia Hitchcock and Neva Austin
The Adventures of Allie & Molly on the true-life events of a girl and her dog, her best friend Molly, and all their shenanigans. Online readers: click
The Adventures of Louie: From a Playful Great Dane Puppy to a Gentle Giant
Written by G. S. Craft
Illustrated by Emily Land
This book is based on the true story of Louie, our Great Dane. Louie was a joy to everyone that knew him. He was a gift from God to us, and I want to share his memory with you. Online readers: click here to order.
Michael’s Journey from Caterpillar to Butterfly
Written by Jocelyn M. Lacey
Illustrated by Holly McManigal
When Michael changes from a caterpillar to a butterfly, he notices his wings are different. Will he be able to fly, and will his friends accept him the way he is?
Online readers: click here to order.
The Tooth Fairy has run out of money and can’t figure out what to do with all the teeth she has collected. What can she do?
Online readers: click here to order.
After the death of his wife of over 30 years, Rick Morgan tries to navigate life without Lisa by his side. He will come to understand through the people he surrounds himself with—friends both new and old—that heroes don’t always come equipped with capes and grand gestures. Heroes are those in your circle who take your hand and pull you through the tough times, and these special people give you the hope and strength to carry on. Although Rick is a broken man, he continues to move forward, guided by family connections, old memories, and a newfound purpose. Online readers: click here to pre-order.
Appalachian Runaway A Dog’s Tale for Grown-Ups
Written by Rachael Roberts Bliss
Appalachian Runaway: A Dog’s Tale for , adult readers have the opportunity to meet a dog that wants more out of life than being a human’s pet. She has her sights set on experiencing a life out in the woods. Although she now lives in an exquisite house in the mountains of North Carolina with a child who considers her as a best buddy, she soon realizes that she has to escape before she goes to the vet to be fixed, whatever that means. One day she gets her opportunity that leads to struggles of loneliness, danger, capture, and new friendships—and even love. What’s more, she describes her adventure out in the wild in her own words. Online readers: click here to pre-order.
Moe, The Traveling Fish
Written by Audrey Jane Illustrated by Jessica Beaver Moe, The Traveling Fish is a oneof-a-kind, adventurous, true story about a betta fish who traveled with his owners, Nana, Papa, and their grandkids, from Maryland to Iowa. On their way west, Papa got lost and ended up at a luxurious resort nestled in the Pennsylvania mountains, Nemacolin Woodlands Resort. Experience the adventure through the mind of Nana’s clever fish, Moe. He sees the ordinary as extraordinary. Enjoy his adventure, and maybe one day you can experience the beautiful Nemacolin Woodlands Resort for yourself! Online readers: click here to pre-order.
AUTHORS on the ROAD
On Tuesday, February 11, the Appalachian Authors Guild will conduct a Board Meeting/Workshop at Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator, 852 French Moore Jr Blvd, Abingdon, VA. The Board Meeting will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. A program: “Magic & Faith” will be presented by Jason Houghton from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
On Tuesday, March 11, the Appalachian Authors Guild will conduct a Board Meeting/Workshop at Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator, 852 French Moore Jr Blvd, Abingdon, VA. The Board Meeting will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. A program: “Meet the Authors” will be presented from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. All are welcome to attend.
Linda Hudson Hoagland
Bookmarked is a platform designed to highlight and promote authors and books associated with Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc., and beyond. The blog and podcast feature interviews with authors, updates related to JCP events, and other bookish content you won’t find anywhere else.
The Lindsay Harris Murder Mystery Series, The Best Darn Secret; and anthologies Easter Lilies; Broken Petals; Wild Daisies; Scattered Flowers; Daffodil Dreams; and These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories Books 1–6
Saturday, February 1, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, Abingdon, VA
Friday, February 7, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, Coeburn, VA
Saturday, February 8, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Richlands Winter Honey Festival, Police Department Complex Richlands, VA
Program: Magic and Faith by Jason Houghton Virginia Highland Small Business Incubator Abingdon, VA
Friday, February 14, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, Pulaski, VA
Saturday, February 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, Bluefield, VA
Friday, February 21, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City Euclid Avenue, Bristol, VA
Saturday, February 22, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, Galax, VA
Friday, February 28, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signing at Food City, Damascus, VA
Interview with Audrey Jane Author of Moe, The Traveling Fish
BOOKMARKED: What can you tell potential readers about your Moe, The Traveling Fish? What’s the story about?
AUDREY JANE: The story of Moe, the traveling fish, is about a betta fish who traveled in a large fishbowl with Nana, Papa, and their grandchildren – Naomi, Olivia, and Isaac – from Maryland to Iowa. Along the way, Papa takes a “shortcut,” and they end up at a 5-star resort in Pennsylvania called Nemacolin. The story is really Moe’s experiences at the grand hotel.
How important do you feel illustrations are when creating a children’s book? What was your experience like working with an illustrator?
The illustrations in my book were done by Jessica Beaver, and I really enjoyed working with her! She was able to bring my visions to life seamlessly. I feel it’s important to have a good relationship with your illustrator in order to create the magic you are looking for.
What would be your advice to aspiring children’s book authors?
My advice to an aspiring children’s book author is to follow your dreams and live in action. Don’t just let the stories live in your head. Find a publisher and an illustrator, and bring your stories to life! Write the book.
Steamy Creek Dan Perkins Jacqueline Marinaro Karen G. Bruce
Stories for the hopeless romantic! Take a dip in Steamy Creek where you’ll find flirtatious characters and tender tales of love. Seven talented authors come together to create an irresistible anthology that will leave you feeling smitten with every page.
SAD EYES: 1912 to 1939 is the story of a woman, Mary Ellen Murphy, from Waterloo, Iowa, and her contribution to the United States and beyond as an Army nurse in World War II, helping save tens of thousands of soldiers’ lives. Her assistance to military leadership throughout her journey proves crucial in the outcome of the war. She is constantly being challenged with more opportunities to serve her country and prove to others what women can do when given the chance.
Mike Grindstaff
Achaiah knew the dangers of falling to earth for the love of his human, Nev. When Nev falls for her guardian angel, Achaiah, she is unaware of the danger that their love puts her in. That’s why fallen angels have one rule: Never fall in love with a human.
What would you do if your father murdered your mother? That’s exactly what Carly is contemplating in this compelling novel that explores the life of a dysfunctional family that eventually erupts into a full-blown tragedy. You will laugh and cry at the antics that Carly finds herself in, just trying to survive in her crazy world.
Marwin Gelstone has had a rough year. His partner’s wife committed suicide, and he was almost murdered by a local gynecologist as he uncovered the doctor’s murderous intentions. The trauma of the assault derailed his life, and he spiraled down, almost losing everything important to him. As he struggles to regain normalcy and rebuild the relationships dear to him, Marwin becomes involved in another pharmaceutical investigation. Will his new lease on life only give him a second chance to die?
Order all of these book directly from JCP — for a discounted price and FREE shipping in February! Go to the “JCP Book Shop” at www.jancarolpublishing.com.
Kathleen M. Jacobs
When Sophie’s family moves from New York City to West Virginia, she not only has to leave her friends and the city and library she loves so much, but she has to figure out what will happen when she discovers that there is no library in her new town. But when she discovers something called a bookmobile and other new treasures, all is right with the world.
Frechia Glass Collins Winchell
In this follow-up sequel to Great Granny and Her Yucky Old Cat , a young girl begins to realize life is not always peaches and cream. Now thirteen going on fourteen, Molly is not a little girl anymore, but not quite a woman either. Molly feels as though she’s stuck somewhere in between with all the confusing feelings this age entails. Return with her and her best friend, Shelby, to GG’s for more fun outdoor adventures, a high-speed car chase, a runaway horse, and more close calls.
D. L. Luke
Sam, the red squirrel with the screwy tail, caused trouble for the German Shepherd and the woman who lived in the old Dutch Colonial. Trouble began with the bird food scattered on the ground, bird feeder, and suet that hung from the shepherd’s hook in the fenced in backyard.
Lynda A. Holmes
Iris has the gift of “sight” with the help of an enchanted fairy stone. She travels back in time to discover how her ancestors came to possess the stone. Batter up . . . the pitcher throws the ball . . . and we’re off with Iris on her adventure. Through the mineral spirits, Iris learns how her fairy stone (staurolite) became a family heirloom.
Order these books from our JCP website (Jancarolpublishing.com) for free shipping! Click on the cover to purchase or go to “JCP Book Store” at the top of our homepage!
AKeeping Our Seniors Warm in a Winter Blast
By Cindy K. Sproles
s winter takes its hold on the country, sudden cold blasts cause the average person to chill and can become especially dangerous for our aging adults. Caregivers have long stated that they have walked into a senior’s assistive living apartment only to be hit with extremely hot temperatures.
It’s true. Our elderly seem colder than most. Though the apartment temperature may be excessive for us, it is necessary for our elderly.
As we age, our bodies lose the ability to keep as warm as they did when we were young. The layer of fat under the skin lessens, and our metabolic rate decreases, causing our bodies to be less tolerant to the cold. Other things also contribute to our body’s sensitivity to colder temperatures, such as side effects from medications, slower circulation, and a loss of elasticity in our blood vessels. It seems we have more going against us than for us as the weather dips.
• Despite the odds, there are things we can do to help our aging parents withstand the colder temperatures. Multi-layers are a great way to help hold their body heat up, and we can accomplish this in several ways.
• Ensure your loved one wears socks and shoes over simply wearing house shoes. Not only does this multi-layer help warm their feet, solid-bottomed shoes are much safer and prevent slips or falls.
• Add undershirts or T-shirts to senior’s daily wear. An undershirt fits tighter to the body and helps hold that much-needed warmth in. Add these before daily wear is slipped on.
• Slip-over sweaters or heavy button-up sweaters also add a nice layer of warmth.
• Warm showers are great. If your senior can dry off inside the shower where a door or curtain holds in the warm air, it prevents that sudden drop in temperature. Of course, if they are unable to do this safely, keeping the bathroom door closed and allowing the warm steam to help take the chill away works, too.
Keeping the flu vaccine up-to-date is essential. Flu vaccines are very safe and recommended by most doctors unless there is an allergy. Adding a dose of vitamin C into the daily routine helps boost the immune system. Vitamin C can be found in pill or powder form and added to water or other drinks.
Encourage your senior to move. Standing and walking pushes circulation into those smaller digits like toes and fingers, and walking promotes body heat. It’s a win-win on a cold day. The benefits of walking far exceed just body warmth. It keeps the body active, helps reduce stiffness, and energizes.
Keeping warm drinks or easy-to-heat soups handy is great to help keep our seniors warm. Finally, check the weather, especially if your senior still resides in their home. Encourage seniors to stay inside. Allow neighbors or family members to retrieve the mail. And as a side note: a family member can submit a request to the Post Office for “door delivery” if you have a senior whose mailbox is on the street. This request requires a PS form 1528 and the doctor’s necessary documentation. You can secure this form at https://about.usps.com/resources/forms.htm or your local main post office.
Though our senior’s “hot room” may be uncomfortable for us, remember that our aging parents need the warmth.
.
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.
Self-Rediscovery
By Dr. Jami Lee
Have you ever had to rebuild yourself from the ground up? To completely re-evaluate your beliefs, focus, and life direction? I’ve had to do this many times, and let me tell you—it can feel overwhelming. As humans, our bodies and lives go through so many transformations, and each stage can feel like starting from scratch. Whether it’s the loss of a job, a diagnosis, a divorce, the death of a loved one, or a move to a new state, these life changes can dysregulate our nervous systems and leave us grappling with an emotional pile of rubble.
Nine years passed between the birth of my seventh child and becoming pregnant with my eighth at the age of 44. In those nine years, I built a business only to lose it, went through a divorce after two decades of marriage, and watched four of my children leave the nest. It felt like being trapped inside a snow globe, shaken repeatedly at someone else’s whim. But amid the chaos, a new life began to take shape. I built meaningful relationships, launched a soulaligned business helping people reverse chronic disorders, and met the love of my life, eloping in Hawaii. My desires and trajectory shifted, and I embraced this new chapter.
Just as I started feeling grounded, life threw me another curveball: two miscarriages. I accepted that my childbearing days were behind me and began dreaming of a future without a baby of my own. I focused on my career and personal growth, creating new goals to fill my days. Almost a year passed, and then it happened: I was pregnant at 44. Another shake of the snow globe.
• Ground yourself: Stand barefoot on the earth for 10–15 minutes. This practice helps discharge negative energy and signals safety to your body.
• Eat earthy foods: Choose foods that come straight from the earth. Avoid processed foods when possible; natural foods carry high frequencies that can elevate your energy.
• Listen to your body: Physical aches often mirror emotional burdens. Shoulder pain may suggest you’re carrying too much, while back pain might indicate a lack of support. Pay attention.
• Find your community: Supportive relationships are invaluable. Surround yourself with people who understand your challenges and can offer encouragement.
Rediscovering yourself can be both painful and beautiful. Life is full of surprises, setbacks, blessings, and losses, but one thing must remain constant: the way you love and care for yourself. Love is the foundation that will guide you through life’s adversities, reminding you of your strength and resilience. Embrace it—you are more amazing than you realize.
Jami Lee, a Certified Nutritional Health Coach, is the founder and visionary behind Alternative Healthcare Solutions. Her mission is to educate and empower individuals dealing with chronic conditions. For inquiries, she can be reached at alternativehcinfo@gmail.com. If you would like more information on Alternative Solutions to join the community, visit our website at www.join-ahs.org/get-started.
Here’s the thing about our nervous systems: they don’t distinguish between life’s highs and lows. When faced with intense emotions, whether positive or negative, the brain often activates the sympathetic nervous system—the “fight or flight” response— leading to a state of heightened alertness. This response is designed to protect us, but prolonged activation can leave us feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Whether the events are tragic or joyful, they can push us into a dysregulated state. It’s frustrating, I know. But no matter the circumstances, the key to resilience lies in how we care for ourselves. The next time you find yourself caught in the storm of life, try these steps to stay grounded:
• Breathe deeply: Take slow breaths in and out through your nose for at least five minutes, as often as needed. This simple practice calms your nervous system.
• 30 OR 90 DAY COACHING
• COMPLETE FOOD GUIDE
• HEAL THE BODY NATURALLY
• REDUCE INFLAMMATION
• REVERSE AUTOIMMUNE
Warning Signs for Heart Disease
Heart
disease is the leading cause of death across the globe.
Data from the World Health Organization indicates that cardiovascular diseases, which are a group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels, claim roughly 18 million lives each year. More than 80 percent of those deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes that oftentimes can be prevented.
The right lifestyle choices, which include eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, can help people reduce their risk for cardiovascular disease. Learning to recognize warning signs of heart disease is another way individuals can reduce their risk of developing this global but often preventable threat.
• Chest pain: According to the British Heart Foundation, chest pain related to a heart attack is marked by feelings of heaviness, tightness, or pressure in the chest. Pain or tightness in the chest that subsides after a few minutes may be indicative of angina, which the Mayo Clinic notes is a symptom of coronary artery disease caused by a reduction of blood flow to the heart.
• Stomach pain: The BHF notes that a painful or burning feeling in the stomach can be indicative of a heart problem, including a heart attack. The Mayo Clinic notes that many heart attacks do not involve
sudden, crushing chest pain and are instead characterized by a host of warning signs, including abdominal pain. The BHF advises anyone experiencing stomach pain who are unsure of its origins to contact a healthcare professional immediately.
• Arm pain: Pain in the arm is another potential indicator of heart disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, arm pain that appears suddenly and is severe could be a symptom of a heart attack. This pain may occur alongside feelings of pressure, fullness, or squeezing in the chest. The BHF notes that a heart attack is more likely to occur if the pain is going down the arm, particularly the left arm, or into the neck.
• Swelling in the lower legs: The National Library of Medicine notes that swelling in the legs, ankles or feet is indicative of a heart problem. Blood flow is adversely affected when the heart is not working at peak capacity, and that can contribute to what’s effectively a traffic jam involving the blood in the veins of the legs. That backup causes the buildup of fluid in the tissues.
Heart disease is a formidable and deadly foe. Learning to recognize the warning signs of heart disease might prove lifesaving.
Voicemail Male
By Ken Heath
Life Lessons
Every now and then, you come across a story that helps you refocus your life. I recently did just that. It was a tale of a young man who struggled with the complexities of higher mathematics—something I sure identify with. Somehow, in high school, I could get the right answer, solving geometry equations, but when it came to turning in the proofs, I’d take a hit. I never figured out the “right way” somehow, but more often than not, the bottom line matched.
The To-Do List
By Kelly McFadden
“This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:12–13 KJV
Interpretation:
“My command is this: love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”
Ilike to make “to-do lists.” Pick up groceries, drop off dry cleaning, buy gift for Sue, etc. When things get busy, it helps to have a list I can refer to that reminds me all I need to get done. All “to-dos” are compiled on a sticky note or pad of paper so I can (with great satisfaction) check each item off as I complete it.
Throughout the Bible, there are a variety of “to-dos” for Christians concerning how we are called to treat each other. They are referred to as the “one anothers.” Here are a few of them:
So, I struggled just like the young man in the story. The difference? He got some awesome advice. Instead of sweating getting an average grade in a subject where he struggled, he would instead concentrate his efforts on doing even better in subjects where he excelled. Sure, his report card reflected the score, but in the end, he developed critical skills for a lifetime of learning and success. He did his best but didn’t sweat not being a straight-A student. And he found his career in a field where angles and proofs weren’t important—but his love of writing directed his entire future. He’d never be a mathematician, but he turned out to be a prolific writer.
“Don’t waste time trying to be average at what you’re bad at. Do all you can to be great at what you’re good at.” Life lesson learned. What inspires you to do your best? Let’s make it so!
{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. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at #kenheath.
• Romans 12:16 – Live in harmony with one another.
• Romans 15:7 – Accept one another.
• 1 Corinthians 12:25 – Care for one another.
• Galatians 5:13 – Serve one another in love.
• Galatians 5:15 – Don’t spitefully hurt one another.
• Galatians 5:26 – Don’t provoke or envy one another.
• Galatians 6:2 – Carry one another’s burdens.
• Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind to one another.
• Ephesians 4:32 – Forgive one another.
• Colossians 3:9 – Don’t lie to one another.
• 1 Thessalonians 4:18 – Comfort one another.
• Titus 3:3 – Don’t hate one another.
• Hebrews 3:13 – Encourage one another.
• James 5:9 – Don’t bear grudges against one another.
• James 5:16 – Pray for one another.
When the day gets busy and time gets short, I must admit, these things tend to get put on the very bottom of my priorities. I tend to focus on myself and how others should be treating me, not on how I am treating and reaching out to others. However, as Christians, the “one anothers” list is one of the most important “to-do” lists to have on hand. All of these are ways we show each other love and respect. It is how God has called us to treat one another.
Source: www.homeword.com
3 Simple Ways to Get Back in Creditors’ Good Graces
Arobust credit rating is a key component of a strong financial foundation. There’s a reason consumers’ credit histories are important to landlords, car dealerships, and mortgage lenders. Adults who can demonstrate a track record of sound financial decision-making and responsible money management are seen as safer bets by landlords and lenders than those who have shaky payment histories. Thankfully, consumers can take three simple steps to rebuild their credit.
1. Start paying on time.
When borrowers don’t pay on time, relatively small debts can quickly balloon, costing consumers sizable amounts of money and threatening their financial reputations. In
addition, the financial experts at NerdWallet point out that late payments can stay on a credit report for more than seven years.
2. Utilize as little credit as possible.
Overutilization of credit adversely affects a credit score, so consumers with poor credit histories are urged to avoid using credit cards when they have funds available in their savings or checking accounts. Consumers now have readily available access to information that determines their credit scores, and that includes their credit utilization ratio. Monitor that ratio and make a concerted effort to keep it low.
3. Apply for a secured credit card.
NerdWallet notes that secured credit cards can be the right vehicle for individuals who need to start over in relation to their credit histories. The credit reporting agency Equifax notes secured credit cards require cash deposits that are used to insure purchases made on credit. Secured credit cards are ideal for borrowers who have been deemed highrisk due to past mistakes. Payment histories on secured credit cards can be recorded and shared with reporting agencies, which makes them a valuable asset for individuals who need to demonstrate an ability to pay bills on time
Consumers can consider these three strategies and others as they seek to rebuild their credit and get back in the good graces of lenders.
6 Benefits of Spaying and Neutering
The American Veterinary Medical Association says spaying and neutering are important tools for preventing unplanned or unwanted litters and reducing pet overpopulation. Most experts agree there is little benefit to leaving pets’ reproductive systems intact. Even family pets can get loose and mate unintentionally. The following are six notable benefits to spaying or neutering a pet.
1. Prevent the conception and birth of unwanted animals.
2. The ASPCA says spaying prevents uterine infections and decreases the incidence of breast tumors, which are malignant or cancerous in about 50 percent of dogs and 90 percent of cats. Spaying a pet before the first heat offers the best measure of protection.
3. Neutering male animals prevents testicular cancer if done before six months of age.
4. Neutered animals are less likely to roam and become nuisances. Female cats can go into heat four to five days every three weeks during breeding season. While in heat they will yowl and urinate frequently.
Males will be on the prowl for females and can get into fights. Spaying and neutering reduces these tendencies.
5. Neutering and spaying is a lot less costly than having and caring for a litter. It also prevents medical treatment from being needed in the event a pet gets into a fight over mating.
6. Although the surgery will reduce some undesirable behaviors, it is not a magic fix for all behavioral problems, including bad habits.
The ASPCA says the traditional age to sterilize dogs is between six and nine months. Healthy puppies as young as eight weeks can undergo a spaying or neutering surgery. For cats, it is generally considered safe for kittens as young as eight weeks old. To avoid the start of urine spraying, neuter or spay a cat before the animal reaches five months of age.
Spaying and neutering is important for animal health and helps to reduce pet overpopulation.
It’s A Classic!
Short and sweet film reviews of old, classic movies perfect for a girls’ night in!
By Allison Chudina
As Valentine’s Day approaches this month, it’s the perfect time to watch a classic American romantic comedy with some of your girlfriends. Based on Truman Capote’s novella, Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), directed by Blake Edwards, remains a classic love story about a young New York socialite (Audrey Hepburn) with a mysterious past.
Once Paul Varjak moves into Holly Golightly’s apartment building, the two start to connect. Paul is with an older woman who is very wealthy, but he
wants to be a writer. Holly is working as an expensive escort and searching for a rich, older man to marry. However, Holly’s past threatens to get in her way as she and Paul start to form a relationship. While this film certainly has some problematic elements by today’s standards, Breakfast at Tiffany’s remains appealing because it reminds us of old, romantic Hollywood ideals, wrapped up perfectly in 1960’s glitz and glam. And, it makes for a cozy Valentine’s Day — or Galentine’s Day — watch.
Wine Pairing:
Watch this film with a glass of sparkling rosé to feel swept up in the classic Hollywood romance. With notes of raspberry and citrus and exuding a pink color, a sparkling rosé is perfect for your Breakfast at Tiffany’s watch.
JCP Book Pairing:
If you enjoy Breakfast at Tiffany’s, check out Secrets in Paris by Ann El-Nemr.
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