Voice Magazine for Women 1120 by Voice Magazine For Women

free NOVEMBER 2020

voicemagazineforwomen.com $1.95

vibrant • vocal • vivacious

Maria True HAPPY BIRTHDAY RADIO!

Women in Radio • We’re on the Same Wavelength

Gather your flock, register online and trot your own way! Official race route or go freerange!

One Stop Shopping

JJ’S VENDOR MALL

Weekend of

November 21, 2020

All proceeds from the race benefit the health and wellness programs of the YWCA.

Disc Golf Supplies, Rugs, Garden & House Flags & Supplies, Furniture, Primitives, Household Goods, Clothing, Tools, Cemetery Flowers, Antiques, Toys, Metal & Wood Signs, Arts & Crafts, Dixie Belle & Country Chic Paint, Jewelry, Knives, and much more!

Spacious Aisles & Plenty of Parking All participants receive an event t-shirt

To Register Visit:

www.ywcatnva.org/turkeytrot/

Conveniently Located at Exit 7 200 LINDEN SQUARE DR., BRISTOL, VA

276.644.4970 MON: 11–7, WED–SAT: 11–7, SUN: 12–6, TUES: CLOSED

Advertise your Business in a 1/2 PAGE AD FOR ONLY $200! Advertise in the December issue of Voice Magazine for Women! We are offering a Small Business Saturday advertising special of a 1/2 page ad for over 1/2 price! Email tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com to schedule your ad and take advantage of this offer! (Deadline is 11/20/20)

November 2020 | Volume 17 | Issue 11

Fashion for Working from Home Jan Howery 5

Prepare Now to Avoid Dry, Cracked Winter Skin 6

Spiritually Speaking Doug Fields 8

The October “Hot Hunk” was Ralph Macchio in The Finer Consignor ad.

Finn Wittrock 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: Brenda Combs Abindgon, 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.

HOT HUNK LOCATION:

6 Ways to Stick to a Holiday Budget 9

The Thought-Provoking Work of Alex Younger Anna Buchanan 10

Why I Joined the Navy Pam Blair 12

Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?

Growing a Pineapple

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

April Hensley 13

Jan-Carol Publishing New Releases 18

JCP Featured Books Voicemale Ken Heath 21

Thanksgiving Recipes 23

National Hospice Month 24

Detecting Breast Cancer Deana Landers 25

8 Ways to Celebrate November Amanda Hollifield Macaroni Kid Tri-Cities 28

On the Cover free

NOVEMBER 2020

voicemagazineforwomen.com

$1.95

or e-mail: hothunk@voicemagazineforwomen.com Deadline for submission is November 20, 2020. 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.

A Brief History of Radio and Women in Radio Maria True 14

LOCAL, REGIONAL, AND NATIONAL HOLIDAY PROGRAMS

HERITAGE TV

Nancy Binder 16

How Small Businesses Can Capitalize on Black Friday

November Hot Hunk Hunt!

Kerala, India

Point Broadband Channel 3

vibrant • vocal • vivacious

Maria True

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RADIO! Women in Radio • We’re on the

Same Wavelength

Maria True is featured on our cover. Photo by Mark Lackey.

Scott County Cable Channel 84 Comcast (Norton system) Channel 266

SERVING FAR SOUTHWEST VA AND EAST TN CONTACT US TO VIDEO YOUR SPECIAL EVENT!

(276) 679-1260 • (276) 452-8484 • htvintouch@gmail.com • www.heritagetv.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 3

FREE Celebrating our 16th anniversary! We wouldn’t be here and there without all of you! LITTLE CREEK BOOKS MOUNTAIN GIRL PRESS EXPRESS EDITIONS ROSEHEART PUBLISHING DIGISTYLE FIERY NIGHT SKIPPY CREEK BROKEN CROW RIDGE

VOICE Speaks

any people identify 2020 as the year that just keeps giving! It is really difficult for me to label it as giving when it seems to be the year of taking—taking away our health, taking away our lifestyle, and most of all, taking away loved ones. Eternal optimists believe that in everything that is lost, something is gained. So, what have we gained during this pandemic? We all gained opportunities to reconnect, even from a distance, with loved ones, family, and friends. This year has given us time to slow down, reflect, and find a creative side that we never knew we had. Whether you feel the year has been taking or giving, Thanksgiving is a time to search and find the gratefulness in the little things and the many things we have in our lives. Make it a year of giving—giving of your time to others, giving support, and giving what you can! At JCP, we find it to be the perfect time to say how grateful we are for all our readers, our loyal fans, and our faithful supporters and advertisers. This year becomes more special with your continued support because we could not be here without all of you! Local shopping is more important than ever, and you have the opportunity to show support. Saturday, November 28th 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! Looking for book bargains? Sign up for our newsletter providing 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: “Always be careful of what you hear about a woman. Rumors come from either a man who can’t have her or a woman who can’t compete with her.” –Author Unknown

“ 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 Anna Buchanan

Ken Heath Pam Blair Deane Landers

Amanda Hollifield Maria True

TLC PUBLISHER/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Nancy Williams nancywilliams@thelauruscompany.com SALES Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983 OFFICE Savannah Bailey Communications Director/Production Editor communications@jancarolpublishing.com GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION Tara Sizemore - Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com Cheryl Allen - Website Consultant Chanie Garner - Project Editor Jacob William Clark - ETSU Fall Semester Intern

Janie C. Jessee, Editor-in-Chief

DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Staff

PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 17, 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. © 2020 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.

4 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Fashion for Working from Home By Jan Howery

orking from home has put a whole new meaning to spending the day in your pajamas. Some of us simply cannot lounge around in our pj’s, and must feel we are dressed for work, even if it is casual dress. Here are some ideas to finding the perfect work from home wear and still embracing cozy, comfort, and chic. • Look for a throw-on-and-go cashmere, sweatshirt dress • Wear a nightgown-style shirt paired with tights or leggings • Layer an oversize shirt with another shirt paired with stretchy pants or jeans • Style chic sweatpants with a matching top • Pick an oversized sweatshirt with a cami and leggings When you are working from home, remember to dress and groom for those Zoom meetings! It is still work!

Small Business Saturday is an annual American shopping holiday on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This year the holiday falls on November 28th. Show your support for Jan-Carol Publishing and all of your local businesses by shopping close to home for holiday gifts or just to treat yourself! At JCP we have a wide selection of books for any type of reader, and you can get them all on our website, by calling our office, or by sending us an email! This November, show your local businesses how much they mean to you and your family! 423.926.9983 www.jancarolpublishing.com publisher@jancarolpublishing.com

is here to introduce you to merchants, needed services, and all cultural aspects of your new home area. The GOOD NEWS is you have moved to a region of the south that is full of “friends you just haven’t met!”

Call for your free free in-home in-h home visit d shopping h i bag b off goodies! di ! and

Call Benita to learn more!

423.202.1679 voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 5

Prepare Now to Avoid Dry, Cracked Winter Skin W

inter weather brings harsh conditions that can wreak havoc on skin. Come winter, winds pick up, temperatures plummet and humidity levels in the air can drop. These factors create a recipe for sapping skin of its natural oils and vibrancy. Even the most well-maintained skin can be impacted by winter air, and the other changes the season brings forth. Taking the initiative ahead of winter’s arrival can help people salvage the appearance of their skin. • Start exfoliating. Skin’s radiance can be dulled by a buildup of dead skin cells. These cells also can clog follicles, leading to breakouts. Regular exfo-

liation one to three times per week can assist with the removal of dead skin cells. Ridding the outer layer of skin of unnecessary debris can also help skincare products penetrate more readily. • Choose a thick moisturizer. It may be necessary to ramp up moisturizing products to combat with dry, winter air. Look for products that contain shea butter, olive oil, jojoba oil, or cocoa butter. They’ll help retain moisture and protect the skin against the wind and cold. • Turn down the heat. While it’s important to stay warm,

All Salon & Spa Services! (New Clients. Not to be combined with other specials or discounts. Exp: 12/31/20)

Hair • Manicures • Pedicures • Skincare Massage • Waxing and More! Schedule your appointment today! 3101 Browns Mill Rd. #8 (Outback Shopping Center) • 423.491-6130 • Poweroftouchsalon.com

COVID-19 Precautions and Cleaning Procedures Practiced!

Our professional style team is ready to help you with all your hair care needs. Schedule today!

7933 We 79 W West estt M Main ain ai in St St. Suit S Suite uit itee 10 0 • Ab Abin Abingdon, ingd gdon don, VA • 276.623.3309 276.623 623.330 330 309 9 BOOK ONLINE: Schedulicity.com 6 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

bundle up rather than cranking the heat. Avoid especially hot water in the shower as well. Hot water can strip the skin of its natural moisture. Therefore, be sure to take warm showers instead of boiling hot ones. • Invest in a hydrator. According to the experts at Glo Skin Beauty, hydrators are lighter than moisturizers, allowing them to penetrate further into the skin. • Use sunscreen. Do not deviate from daily sunscreen use. Even though conditions seem less sunny, skin still needs to be protected from harmful UV rays. • Wear gloves to protect hands. Frequent hand washing and exposure to cold temperatures can impact the skin on hands. Protect them with warm gloves and generously apply moisturizer. • Run the humidifier. Use a humidifier at night to keep skin supple and improve the health of nasal passages. Winter weather can be tough on skin. By preparing in advance of winter, people can head off dry skin and other problems.

How Small Businesses Can Capitalize on Black Friday M

illions of small businesses have had a difficult year distancing policy. Thank customers in advance for in 2020. As the novel coronavirus COVID-19 spread adhering to your policy and for bringing much-needed across the globe, governments all over the world took unprecrevenue to your business. edented measures to prevent the virus from claiming more • Optimize your mobile site. Lines are the norm on a lives. Public health measures like social distancing undoubttypical Black Friday, but they might be even longer edly saved lives, but small businesses bore the brunt of the this year as small businesses minimize the number of economic impact of such measures. people they allow in their store at one time. By optimizBlack Friday is the day after Thanksgiving and marks the ing their mobile sites in advance of Black Friday, small unofficial beginning of the holiday shopping season. Capibusiness owners can ensure shoppers waiting online talizing on Black Friday in 2020 can help small businesses have access to what’s inside the store even before they generate a substantial amount of revenue in a year that has enter. That can make it easier to wait on line and ease been chock full of financial challenges. The following are customers’ concerns about spending too much time some strategies small businesses can employ to make this inside the store. Black Friday as lucrative as possible. • Emphasize your status as a small business. The pan• Connect with the locals. In recognition of the economic demic will no doubt compel many Black Friday shopchallenges faced by small businesses in 2020, local champers to avoid crowded malls and big box stores in 2020. bers of commerce have gone to great lengths to encourSmall business owners can use their status as small age residents to shop local as economies have slowly businesses to their advantage by reminding customers reopened. Residents have responded to such efforts, and their showrooms are small and easily controlled. small businesses can do their part by making concerted Small businesses may be struggling in 2020. But Black efforts to connect with locals in advance of Black Friday. Friday is a golden opportunity for small businesses to Advertise Black Friday sales in local newspapers and join recoup some of the revenue they’ve lost in a challenging your local chamber of commerce in encouraging shop year. local efforts on Black Friday. • Open early. In an effort to promote social distancing, some big box retailers have announced changes to their Black Friday strategies. Those changes may include more limited store hours and later openings. Local small business owners can capitalize on such strategical shifts by opening their stores early on Black Friday without compromising social distancing guidelines. Place a sign outside your store that highlights your early opening but also reminds cusComplete your home with decor from The Old Town Emporium in Jonesborough. tomers of your mask and social Located inside the Jonesborough Visitors Center, 117 Boone St, Jonesborough, TN 37659 voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 7

Starting Over By Doug Fields

“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6 KJV Interpretation: “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

story is told about a factory burning down that was owned and managed by the great inventor Thomas Edison. It happened December 9, 1914. As the factory burned, great geysers of green flames, fueled by laboratory chemicals, shot into the air. Fire departments from eight towns rushed to the scene, but A young woman’s life turns upside down when her father, who was her best friend, suddenly dies. Throughout her pain, she decides to turn her tragedy into triumph by writing a collection of poems in memory of her father. Her faith in God gave her the strength to survive such a challenging time in her life. This collection of poems gives hope to people who suffered the loss of their father and will show how God brings restoration through hope and prayer. This collection is my poetry journey from pain to purpose for Christians who can identify with the loss of a loved one.

Available:

the building was all but leveled. Much of Edison’s work was destroyed in the process. Many friends and well-wishers, expecting Edison to be devastated, sent messages of condolence and support. To one he replied, “I am 67; but I am not too old to make a fresh start.” Within three weeks the Edison factories were restored to some semblance of order. Soon after that they were running at two shifts. The speed of the recovery, one observer said, was almost as spectacular as the disaster. Could it be that Edison’s bold words reflect the desire of your heart—to make a fresh start? Your life’s work may not have been destroyed by fire, but you’re ready to start over. Maybe you’re tired of the way things are going, and you feel like it’s time for something different, better, or more rewarding. Or maybe you’ve experienced other areas of hurt that have set you back, and now you are frustrated, afraid, discouraged, or worried. Or perhaps you just feel trapped by harmful habits, behaviors, and attitudes that keep you from being the man or woman of God you desire to become. Whatever the case, you feel stuck and a fresh start sounds attractive to you. You know God is calling you to a life more abundant than the one you’re experiencing right now. Let me share some good news with you: it doesn’t matter what age you are or how long you’ve been a Christian; fresh starts are for everybody. You can start over! The bad news is that most people give up; they settle for second best, they don’t start over and they stay stuck. Please don’t allow that to be you. Don’t quit, don’t panic, and don’t give up. Remember that God is committed to carrying on the work He has started in you! There is unlimited grace, mercy, forgiveness, healing, and newness of life for anyone who calls upon the name of the Lord. So, keep pressing on in the journey to which God has called you. Source: www.homeword.com

www.patricewilkerson.com www.amazon.com

Purchase Jan-Carol Publishing Books at the Harvest Table! “every story needs a book”

13180 Meadowview Square • Meadowview, VA • (276) 944-5140 8 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

6 Ways to Stick to a Holiday Budget

ho doesn’t want to have a super holiday with delicious foods on the table and lots of presents to share with family and friends? While that’s tempting, such a bounty should never result in financial peril. These six strategies can make it easy to establish and stick to a budget this holiday season. Budget for everything. When working out holiday spending plans, factor in all of the expenses associated with the holidays—not just the most obvious, like gifts. Costs for gas, parking lot fees, greeting cards, postage, travel expenses, and much more should be included in your final number. Determine how much you can spend. Look at your finances in advance of the holiday season and figure out how much extra cash you have for the holidays, and use that figure to determine how much you should spend. Find ways to make up any deficit by curtailing expenses like dining out or entertainment extras. Only use credit cards if you have the money in the bank and can pay off the entire bill when the balance due is in January. Set a spending limit for individuals. Based on your numbers and how much you plan to spend overall, start allocating money to categories, including gift recipients. Come up with a spending range for each person and stick to it. Pay in cash as much as possible. It’s easy to know what you’re spending when using cash as opposed to credit. There is some risk with carrying around cash, but that risk may be offset

by the benefit of spending only what you can afford to spend. Track all purchases. Save the receipts and keep a running total of expenditures so you can see how your spending is measuring up to your budget. If necessary, scale back on one category if you’ve tipped the scales in spending on another. Shop sales and deals. High-end stores may have the impressive tag, but their prices can set you back. Instead, look for comparable gifts at discount stores and other retailers. Also, if you must use a credit card, use one that

earns you a cash-back bonus for added savings. A holiday budget is a must to avoid overspending and finding yourself in debt early next year.

Buying or Selling Your Home? “I am a local Realtor working in the local market for over the past fifteen years. I appreciate all my former clients and now consider most to be dear friends and valued business associates. I can help you as life brings the many changes to all of us. So whether you’re moving in or moving out, I can help.”

Robin Miller Real Estate Professional

Office – 423.722.3223 • Direct – 423.647.9476 508 Princeton Rd., Ste. 106 • Johnson City, TN RealtorRobinMiller@gmail.com Call Today! www.premierhomestn.com voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 9

Every Piece Becomes Significant: The Thought-Provoking Work of Alex Younger By Anna Buchanan Curator of Contemporary Fine Art and Craft

iber artist, printmaker, educator, and sexual assault activist, Alex Younger, grew up in Upstate New York, but has recently finished her time as an Artist in Residence at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. There is no singular moment in her life when she can pinpoint the beginnings of her creativity, “It’s more of a fact that always was,” she says, “My mother is a weaver and there’s photos of me at 2 and 3 years old ‘helping’ her with the loom. I always wrote and I always made things.” Younger’s work nods to narrative artists and those that use text, such as Marina Abramovic and Barbara Kruger, but her work translates so much more than historical art influences. In her biography, Younger explains that she became a sexual assault activist in 2015, after a college adjudication of her case; she expresses, “…I felt so lost and confused by a system of arbitrary rules, and I realized that the system was designed to make me feel that way. I realized that when we talk about sexual violence, we focus on statistics and on accounts of assaults, but that everything else— fighting the system for accountability, trying every day to recover—was both much more difficult and much harder to convey.” The use of text is a reoccurring theme in the exhibition Transforming Politics. All too often we see text incorporated into strictly literary material, like books, magazines, ads etc.; however, there is another layer of meaning that

10 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Protest Until..., 2016, Hand-dyed, handwoven wool with steel rods, 100in x 60in, by Alex Younger

is added to visual art when one chooses to utilize text. Younger explains, “I believe that placing text into visual art forces us to view and read its contents completely differently. When I use text in my work, I gravitate to short statements or sections that are either constructed, like the texts on the [Relational] Values panels, or passages that might be lost in dense legalese or reporting, adding layers with typeface, material choices and display. It’s similar to the difference between a novel and a poem—when we’re given less, every piece becomes significant and we spend more time with it.” Text can be read differently when liberated from the blank, white page. Notably, there are similarities between a blank piece of printer paper and the blank, white walls of an art gallery. “I think of both the white page and the ‘white cube’ gallery walls as legitimizing and sanitizing spaces,” says Younger,

“Often because of the work I make, I am told that it should only be placed outside of the gallery: in the streets or in windows, once (very memorably) that it should be relegated to the kitchen. I believe that there’s a balance between activism and art, and that if the pieces exist solely outside art world spaces, then it rejects the work’s place in fine art. It needs to have space to exist in both. There is a lot of control in working with textiles. Depending on the choices you make in fiber, density, tools, and structure, you can create material at any scale that is translucent or dimensional, beautifully draped or comforting. Text can be embedded, pieced, applied to the surface, made with dye. Each of these choices becomes part of the meaning. A piece of paper could never do that.”

continued on next page

Opportunities to Learn CITRASOLV ART August 13 –14, 2020

ABSTRACT SHADOW BOXES August 27, 2020

Relational Values, 2017, Hand-dyed, handwoven tencel panels with Participants thiox monoprints, 35in 95in each Younger Experiment with a Citrasolv workshop using chance and will bex taken onbyaAlex short journey of the abstraction. Using a unique process with orange oil senses to inspire the creation of an abstract paper (Citrasolv Cleaner), transform shadowUntil, box. Explore color,and andwe shape Younger makes the point that ordinary Younger’s piece, Protest or even line, ‘political’ rarelywith think magazine rich, textural images. as a bannerdecorative and frosted papers to make a unique textile work is pages often into associated with operates to be carried, about what they mean to us.” piece. the stereotyped ‘women’s work.’ “We even in the gallery setting. The way For this exhibition, artist interexpect women’s work and textile the artwork is viewed as such, ele- views are concluded by asking artists work toWOODCUT be small and PRINTMAKING intimate and vates the status of the idea of a what they think WRECK ART it means to be a contained,” she says, “I chose instead protest banner. Younger points out, woman. When asked what it means Tuesdays in August August 29 – 30, 2020 to be combative and loud, and to “The banner is a historical form that to be a woman, Younger had this to take up space. The texts from Rela- we can read instantly, even when it say, “I think one of the most beautional Values are constructed rather is inside a museum rather than in a tiful things about living now is that than sourced from something that protest. Protest Until…was asking if we are free to embrace gender in any would give the viewer a hint as to there was a way to make a universal way we want. There are as many ways how we should feel about the state- protest prop—a banner that could be of being a woman as there are people ments. I originally made the texts endlessly reused…” who identify as women.” watching the response to the hurWhen asked if her You can see the workthrough of Alex Learn the basics of woodcut relief printmaking, Thiswork WreckisArt class focuses on creation ricane in Puerto Rico, but they are intended to send a direct message Younger in the exhibition Transforma fine art reproductive process that allows you to create a destruction and alteration. Students will receive a intentionally non-specific. I hope to thecarving viewer, “I don’t think artwork of this sourced ing Politics: Made by Women, on series of original prints. Students will learn finished fromArt thrift stores, attics, waste that people question what “values” as message work so much as I hope view at the William King Museum techniques on birch or pine plank to create an original bins, etc. Students will be guided through questions to mean to them [and] askfor themselves that it makes peopleconsider think about of Art in Abingdon, Virginia in The image print. about the artwork and how new life can be whether they have different reac- their foundational assumptions,” breathed Unitedinto Company Contemporary the piece. tions to the different statements [pre- Younger notes, “We throw around a Regional Gallery, from August 20 sented in the work]...” lot of ideas like ‘values’ and ‘protest’ through December 27, 2020.

www.williamkingmuseum.org voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 11

Why I Joined the Navy By Pam Blair

spent time during the Covid-19 shutdown sorting through hundreds of old photos, and much to my delight, I found the photo of my Navy swearing-in ceremony. I was thrilled because I hadn’t seen it in years and thought it was lost. It’s the only photo I have from my years of active duty service. Near the end of the Vietnam War, I decided to join the U.S. Navy. Joining the military was not an easy decision, especially while an unpopular war was in progress and it meant I would be making a commitment for the next four years of my life. I was at a crossroads, where I had gone to work in Washington, D.C. right after high school and held some interesting jobs, but I still wanted to go to college and find my career path. The GI Bill offered a way to fund my education without going into debt and I also hoped to learn a skill while in service. Why did I choose the Navy? I toyed with the idea of enlisting in the Air Force, but I’ve always been fascinated by ships and the sea. My stepmother proudly served in the Navy during the Korean War and I admired her patriotism. I wanted to serve my country as well, so I took the leap and talked to a recruiter about enlisting. No one advised me to get a guaranteed school when I signed up, so I tell every young person considering enlistment to be sure and lock in a school before you commit to service. While in boot camp, we received all kinds of aptitude tests, and I could have gone on to learn a foreign language, receive legal training, or many other career fields, but it would have meant signing up for more years of active duty. With a guaranteed school, that would not have been necessary. There’s no getting around it, boot camp is a humbling experience. The purpose is to teach discipline, respect, and obedience, and our company commander was as tough as those you

12 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

see in the movies like Private Benjamin. Picture 50 girls living in a barracks lined with bunk beds, and lights out early after making sure our shoes were shined to a mirror finish and our beds made with sheets tucked so tightly a quarter could bounce off them. We learned how to shoot firearms and wear a gas mask, and the physical training was intense. Being in the Navy also meant having to pass a rigorous swim test. Our days began with the reveille bugle sounding at 5:30 a.m., when we would stumble out of bed and line up for a group march to breakfast in the mess hall. That’s when I first started drinking coffee. I had to do something to wake up! After boot camp, I received orders to report to the Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Center located in San Diego harbor. I loved working in the command’s boat pool, where it was our job to take 40-foot utility boats to meet ships coming in and out of the harbor, transporting officers and sailors as they underwent refresher training. Later I worked in the administrative office where I set up the command’s first computer word processor and finished my Navy service as a petty officer. I received an honorable discharge and went to work full time at a VA medical center while going to college at night, eventually completing bachelor’s and master’s degree in library and information science. My education led me to meaningful work in VA medical libraries and later in VA public affairs, and I thank the GI Bill for helping to fund my education and leading me on a career path that was unexpected, yet very rewarding. Choosing to join the Navy turned out to be the right decision for me, and working in VA medical centers throughout the South allowed me to help veterans from all branches of military service, an experience for which I will always be grateful. God bless our military and the USA!

{

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.

Growing a Pineapple Indoors By April Hensley

rost has arrived to our area and soon the stinging cold of deep winter will have gardeners looking for ways to use our green thumbs in a warmer setting. With many children having school from home now, there are gardening projects that can be done as a family to show how scientific and magical growing things can be. I’m currently trying to grow a pineapple indoors in a pot. I’m on my third try, and I think this one is going to work— maybe. The first time it was doing great until I forgot to water it. The second time I watered it too much and it obviously thought I was trying to turn it into compost. This time I have it near my desk so I can keep an eye on it. So far, so good. I’ve always loved canned pineapple, but I had never had a fresh pineapple. After hearing that I could grow a pineap-

ple from the green top, I of course decided to try it. Wow! Sweet and juicy! It is time consuming to thinly peel the outside skin and get the meat off the core, but it is definitely worth it. Here’s some steps for how I am working on growing a pineapple indoors. Hopefully some of the mistakes I’ve learned from will help if you want to try to grow one too. • Choose a pineapple at the store that has a healthy green top. • Select a pot with good drainage. Fill with indoor potting soil. • Hold the pineapple in one hand and the green top with other hand. Twist in opposite directions until it separates from the pineapple. • There will be small leaves at the base of the top. Start peeling these gently off. You will see tiny roots forming between the green leaves. Peel until several roots are exposed. I did around one inch.

• • •

•

• •

TIME TO WINTERIZE YOUR FOUNTAIN, POND OR WATER FEATURE.

{

Put the green top in the potting soil just covering the roots. Keep moist for several weeks so the roots take off. Then water after you see the soil drying but never let it completely dry. Eventually new green shoots come up from the middle of the plant. Keep your new houseplant in a sunny, warm location. Supposedly, a tiny pineapple fruit will start growing from the middle of the plant in around a year. I haven’t gotten to that phase yet, but I’m hoping the third time’s a charm!

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.

PONDS - WATERFALLS - FOUNTAINS New Hope Aquascapes and Landscaping

833-LAWN-411 Info@NewHope.Pro www.NewHope.Pro

Licensed & Insured

Licensed, Insured and Bonded • New Construction • New Construction • Guttering • Guttering Call Today! • Custom Woodworking • Custom Woodworking • Exterior and Interior Remodeling

423.968.5344

• Exterior and Interior Remodeling Licensed, Insured and Bonded

Call Today! 423.968.5344 voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 13

A Brief History of Radio and Women in Radio We’re on the Same Wavelength Submitted by Maria True, CEO/General Manager of Jet Broadcasting, Inc.

adio. Everyone has listened to radio. Most everyone in the United States for the last hundred years has listened to radio. This past August we celebrated the centennial of the first commercial radio station, 8MK in Detroit, that broadcast to about 500 locals with receivers in August of 1920. From 1922 to 1924 radio stations had blossomed from a meager 28 stations to 1,400. More importantly, radio sets increased from 60,000 to 1.5 million and with it a new kind of advertisement based programming that sneaked toothpaste or soap into the living rooms of Americans between news, weather, sports, and entertainment. Even the Great Depression couldn’t stop radio, and by 1931 radio’s “Golden Age” had begun. Half of American homes had radios. Mothers listened in the mornings, children after school, and fathers with their families during prime time. Radio reached the cities as well as the rural areas. By World War II, nine in ten families owned a radio and listened an average of three to four hours a day. As radio hit it’s pinnacle and headed into the 1950’s, a new industry took over—television. Radio had created sitcoms, soap operas, and dramas, and now television took these models and gave them visual appeal. Fortunately the creation of the transistor allowed radios to become smaller, portable, and even more accessible. Before long, rock ‘n’ roll hit the airwaves and radio continued on. For the next fifty years music became the staple of radio. Before we look to now, let’s look back at some women in radio through the years. In 1920, Eunice Randall became an engineer and announcer for radio station 1XE. Her interest in radio had begun at the age of nineteen, when she built her own amateur radio equipment. In addition to her technical duties at 1XE, which included repairing equipment and

14 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

occasionally climbing the transmitting tower, she read stories for children as “The Story Lady,” and gave the police report over the air. In 1931 Kate Smith was the first woman to have her own radio show. She went on to present “The Kate Smith Hour” and to host the number one daytime show, “Kate Smith Speaks,” a news and commentary program. Her final radio show was in 1958. She was also famous in the ’30’s and ’40’s for singing “God Bless America” on air. In the 1940’s Edythe Meserand started an on-air job as a station’s “Musical Clock Girl,” who popped up every hour to give the time of day. In 1949 she began producing radio programs including the acclaimed “Wildlife, Unlimited.” Edythe spent a good deal of time on the air, but as an executive is where she excelled and innovated. She is credited with founding the first newsroom and also produced the first true radio documentary. She was also the first president of American Women in Radio and Television, the oldest established professional association dedicated to advancing women in broadcasting. In regards to ownership, Dorothy Brunson was the first African-American

woman to own a radio station in 1979. Her first station was in Baltimore and she later added stations in Atlanta and Wilmington, North Carolina. Thanks to the leadership of these female pioneers and many others, women are now not only radio personalities but also owners, program directors (20%), and engineers (25%). In the Tri-Cities we have one such woman that fills several of these roles as owner, general manager, and personality, Maria True of Jet Broadcasting, Inc. Maria grew up in radio. Her father bought WEMB-AM in 1958 before she was ever born She was just a child when the FM station, WXIS, was started, and in the same timeframe the radio station building was erected. Her father was a real innovator, and the station boasts broadcasting the first Little League Baseball game and always adapting through the years with multiple music formats to stay current with what was trending. This brings us to now. People prefer to decide what music they listen to themselves and personalized programming has become the norm. People are also busy, and many sources people get their news from are unreliable or take too much time. Once again radio has adapted and Maria has led the way

in the Tri-Cities with two of the leading formats in America, and they will be the future of radio’s century long success! Four years ago WEMB became 1420 WEMB Sports Radio and has the most popular sports programming in the country. On the FM side WXIS has become an “audio magazine,” 24 hours of news, weather, sports and entertainment. When you hop in the car or go for a jog, Livewire 103.9 is there to “entertain your brain.” “I want to use the stations to help people,” says Maria, “We have a deliberate focus on non-profits in our area and we love to sponsor fundraising events and to let everyone know who the organizations are that help people. We also think it is a privilege to keep people informed without a lean so they can make up their own minds.” The next hundred years of radio is beginning strong as it adapts one more time and in some ways reaches back to a time when radio provided news, weather, sports, entertainment, and people depended on radio to do good in the community. Maria True and Jet Broadcasting are leading the way in the Tri-Cities just as the stations have done for years.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 15

Article and Photographs By Nancy Binder

he state of Kerala was established in 1956. It is on the southwestern coast of India bordered by the Arabian Sea. Its population is about 36 million people. It is one of the smallest states in India, just slightly larger than our state of Maryland. The major religions are 55% Hindu, 26% Muslim, 18% Christian and the rest is made up of other or no religions. We flew into Kochi, also called Cochin, the largest city of Kerala. It has been a port city since 1341 and was known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea. Our hotel, the 1931 Taj Malabar Hotel, was located on the port with lovely grounds and views of the harbor and the beautiful harbormaster building. After a quick hotel check in, we were off on a sunset cruise in the very busy commercial harbor. The harbor was crowded with highly decorated local fishing boats, quite a few cantilevered Chinese fishing nets lining the shore, many Indian Navy ships, two Indian Coast Guard ships, and many, many container ships. After an enjoyable cruise, we returned to our charming hotel for a demonstration of Katakali—storytelling with eye and facial expressions, hand movements, and dance. The faces are painted different colors to indicate the character, green for heroic person, red for evil, yellow for

monks, etc. A narrator helped us to understand the story. It was very entertaining. Dinner in the hotel was a “Taste of Kerala.” The first course was ethnic spiced king prawns and masala grilled squid rings. The next course was crab and coconut soup, then came mint and lemon sorbet; the main course was banana leaf wrapped fish with green mango fish curry, rice, and naan. The dessert of coconut soufflé and coconut ice cream was wonderful, but the most visually appealing was a small Indian shrimp boat that had dry ice inside it and a small chocolate for each of us on its deck with the frosty steam coming out all around it. What a way to end the superb meal! On a tour of Kochi I learned when Vasco de Gama arrived in 1498, he was the first European to do so by sea. We visited the former Catholic Church, St. Francis, now Anglican, where Chocolate served on dry iced de Gama was buried shrimp boat after dying of malaria

Harbormaster Building 16 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

continued on next page

Nimmy Paul cooking class

Sunset cruise, cantilevered fishing nets on Christmas Eve 1524 on his third voyage. Fifteen years later his son came, exhumed him, and took his body back to Portugal. Another visit was to the Dutch Palace. It wasn’t occupied by the Dutch, rather they built it as a gift to the king. It has old frescoes telling the Hindu story of Ramayana. A walk through the main market is always interesting, seeing the fruits, vegetables, spices, and incense beautifully on display. In the late afternoon we visited Nimmy Paul’s Cooking School. She is quite famous, having been written up in The New York Times and she is regularly invited to Napa Valley to do Kerala cooking classes. She cooked four dishes for us; potato Masala, kingfish with Kerala spices called meen molee, green beans and carrots stir fry called Mezuku patty, and ginger prawns. All were excellent, and for dessert she made silver dollar pancakes with stewed lychees, stewed pineapple, and stewed apples with cloves in it. This was such a great way to learn about local cuisine. The second area I visited in Kerala was Kumarakom Lake Resort on the second largest lake in India, Lake Vembanad. We arrived as close to the jetty as the coach could get and transferred to a tuk-tuk for

Canal busy with rice boats

Katakali actor the exciting amusement park-like ride to the rice boats, which were to take us to the resort. Rice boats have thatched roofs over wooden frames and originally were used to haul rice and spices. There are over 900 rice boats to take people on sightseeing trips through the canals of the lake. These rice boats are also floating hotels, with one or two air-conditioned bedrooms on board. We took a three hour slow cruise which included a nice lunch. What a relief from the noise and hustle and bustle of the cities! The lake is 10 miles across and has lots of water hyacinth floating in it. Along the canals are little hotels and guest houses, and acres and acres of rice paddies. People were washing clothes and linens in the lake, beating them on a rock to remove soil and excess water. It’s not an easy process on fabrics or the laundry person. On the first evening at the resort there was a short program of classical dance with two young ladies who had very expressive eyes. The dance is called Mohiniattam meaning Mohini’s dance. According to Indian mythology, Mohini was an enchantress who seduced people. The following day we boarded boats for a trip on the canal to a small village. We disembarked and a woman demonstrated rope making from coconut husks. The husks are soaked in water for six months, then sun dried, the strands are separated and a strand is tied onto a hook that is turned by a tiny electric motor. It

is amazing how fast she can make strands into rope. The family we visited lived pretty much entirely off their small plot of land. Their main crop is rice. They also had a cow, but they didn’t let her roam. They raise bananas, coconuts, peppers, tomatoes, and spices etc. The husband gave us a demonstration of the modern way to climb a coconut tree which entails strapping “ladder like” devices to each leg and a strap that goes around the tree and, like the old way of tying the ankles together, he sort of hopped up the tree. In another village they showed us how they make “toddy” a local alcoholic drink of fermented coconut, we saw tapioca plants, the black pepper trees, and a woman demonstrated mat weaving. They sleep on mats on the floor with no pillow. They claim no back aches. The evening performance was a Kerala martial arts demonstration called Kalaripayattu. It is a personal combat training system which includes exercises to develop sharp reflexes for unarmed combat and combat techniques using mace, spears, daggers, sword and shield, and the unique Kerala weapon, the flexible sword called urumi which can be concealed as a waist belt. Wow, were they agile, quick, and flexible! We enjoyed our time in Kerala which is culturally different from the rest of India.

{

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 2020 | 17

Jan Howery

Courtnee Turner Hoyle

Jeff Geiger Jr.

Linda Hudson Hoagland

Sylvia Weiss Sinclair

Life

A Collection of Short Stories, Book 2

These Haunted Hills A COLLECTION OF SHORT STORIES BOOK 2

Written by Various Authors These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories Book 2 follows the ghostly trail from These Haunted Hills Book 1 with its new collection of short stories that tease the readers’ curiosity of the supernatural. With the Appalachian region as a backdrop, each story brings fictional characters to life with intertwining moments of mystery, humor, and a reality check of the beating heart. A group of talented authors has created a delightful, haunting read in a non-cookie cutter, invigorating style that each reader will enjoy!

Pete’s Angel: A Story of Self-Love

“Pete’s Angel is a very special story that will warm the hearts of young children as they identify with Pete in his journey toward finding true happiness and self-acceptance.” —Rosalie O. Sheens, School Counselor

Written by Hunter D. Darden Pete’s world is sad and lonely. Not only does he notPete’s likeworld anything about himself, is sad and lonely. Not only does he not like anything about himself, but he doesn’t fit in with the other kids. but he doesn’t t Pete’s in with theangel, other kids. It isn’t fi until misfit guardian T. J., teaches him the art of loving himself that Pete becomes happy and fulfilled. It isn’t until Pete’s misfit guardian angel, Darden T. J., teaches him Hunter theD.art of loving himself that Pete becomes happy and fulfilled. “A marvelous book for children and adults! I absolutely recommend it for any age. I offer heartfelt thanks to Hunter Darden for providing us with a mechanism for boosting self-image and character in such a pleasant and comfortable way!”

Gorgeous Georgia: A Story of Inner Beauty

Gorgeous Georgia

is the author of six children’s books, a novel, a photography book, and a collection of newspaper columns she wrote for The Charlotte Observer. She has won awards for her book writing including 50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading By The Author’s Show, Excellence In Creative Writing Award By The NC General Federation Of Women’s Club, and the Meredith College Career Achievement Alumni Award. Visit her website at www.booksbyhunter.net.

a story of inner beauty

Written by Hunter D. Darden Gorgeous Georgia: A Story of Inner Beauty is about a giraﬀe who brags on herself to the other animals, calling herself Gorgeous Georgia. She eventually learns that beauty comes from within your heart. The other animals learn that you should never judge others because you don’t know what they are dealing with.

Gorgeous Georgia discovers that the beauty from within is more important than outside beauty.

Hunter Darden has a B.A. in Psychology from Meredith College. She is the author of The Everlasting Snowman, Pete’s Angel, Milliseconds

of Joy, The “Reel” Thing, Tapestry, and Horse Sense and Savvy.

Gorgeous Gorgeous Georgia Georgia a storyof of inner inner beauty a story beauty

By Hunter D. Darden Illustrated by Sheila Hogan

Tweets From Another Donald

Written by Donald Umbarger Written from the heart, author Donald Umbarger uses Tweets From Another Donald to share his humble beginnings. He was molded and shaped by his surroundings, and his personal stories—set in Ceres, a small community nestled in the mountains of Southwest Virginia—will resonate with anyone who has grown up in a small, rural community or in the Appalachian Mountains. His stories, experiences, and views reflect his journey of growing up in a hardworking family and finding peace in his Christian walk. Marching to his own beat, his “tweets” Donald Umbarger take readers through diﬀerent stages of his childhood and adulthood. Step back in time with him as he takes you through the good times, the sad times, and the conflicting times of being a member of a small, poor farming family. You may discover that you don’t always agree with his opinions and his commentaries; however, you will be educated on how to walk the road less traveled.

Written by

Illustrated by

Hunter D. Darden

Sally Vacca

Over the Circumstances

Written 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 every-day, mundane occurrences of life.

Donald Umbarger

Bristol, Virginia. He is retired, s faith in God, God’s promises spel music. He enjoys gardenf garden vegetables to many d to the local agencies helping nd the promises of God bring ing his story of humble beginill assist others in overcoming ening their faith.

ParaNORMAL aNORMA

Susanna Holstein

Bev Freeman

These Haunted Hills:

—Elizabeth David, M.D. Board Certified Psychiatrist

Tweets From Another Donald

Umbarger uses Tweets from beginnings. He was molded onal stories—set in Ceres, a of Southwest Virginia—will small, rural community or periences, and views reflect family and finding peace in at, his “tweets” take readers nd adulthood. Step back in od times, the sad times, and small, poor farming family. e with his opinions and his d on how to walk the road

Lynda A. Holmes

Written by Audra Avery Zeb’s ParaNORMAL Life is the story of fourteen-yearold Zeb, a medium who refuses to accept his ghost communicating abilities until he forms a strong friendship with a new girl at school, who only he can help. Zeb is forced to attend Eusapia Palladino Academy, a high school in rural Pennsylvania devoted to helping students develop their medium abilities. Zeb is diﬀerent than the other students in that he doesn’t just see ghosts, but he can touch them, too. Zeb ends up befriending, Karen, a spunky girl with a stubborn attitude. Karen helps Zeb AUDRA AVERY start to see his abilities as being a gift. However, their friendship takes a turn for the worse when Zeb discovers that Karen may actually be dead. In order to find out the truth about Karen’s past, Zeb will need to use all his psychic abilities that he’s been too scared to try. Victoria Fletcher

BOOK 2

FEATURING AUTHORS: Lori C. Byington

A COLLECTION OF SHORT STORIES

nsbooks.com eryauthor

AUDRA AVERY

n bound writer from the e influenced by her love urious, and miraculous. screenwriting contests Hills Screenplay Contest, creenplay Contest, and lay Contest.

Zeb’s

Zeb’s ParaNORMAL Life

These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories Book 2 follows the ghostly trail from These Haunted Hills Book 1 with its new collection of short stories that tease the readers’ curiosity of the supernatural. With the Appalachian region as a backdrop, each story brings fictional characters to life with intertwining moments of mystery, humor, and a reality check of the beating heart. A group of talented authors has created a delightful, haunting read in a non-cookie cutter, invigorating style that each reader will enjoy! Each story brings its own intriguing and engaging moment of excitement and thoughtfulness.

THESE HAUNTED HILLS

k to spirits. After ol, he’s forced to

NEW RELEASES

OUT NOW! Zeb’s ParaNORMAL Life

AL Life

“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.

Written by Michael Gryboski Carla had been on the fringes before. She was once a PRAISE FOR hired allowed her to pay for her grandfather’s medical bills. This time, the powers that be want her on the extremes to stop a mysterious mastermind who wants to destroy the very idea of reason. “Gryboski highly deserves the praise for creating this truly fascinating world and characters. I won’t go fully into who is who and how the story develops. The rest is for you, the reader, to find out. I highly recommend picking this book up.”

THE END OF REASON

arla had been on the fringes before. She was once a hired killer for a domestic terrorist organization, a position that allowed her to pay for her grandfather’s medical bills. This time, the powers that be want her on the extremes to stop a mysterious mastermind who wants to destroy the very idea of reason.

—Elizabeth Gibson, These Magical Pages

“Gryboski’s writing was very unique and incredibly descriptive—I had a perfect image of the story’s events in my mind the entire time.” —Rebekah Crozier, My Bookish Babblings “We are infatuated with Carla.” —Geneva & Addie, Better Read Than Dead Book Club

18 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Michael Gryboski

“5 out of 5 stars.” —Kerrie Irish, Comfy Reading

Written by Dale P. Rhodes, Sr. Life is not always easy when you are a dog named Monkey. Losing a friend always hurts, but losing two can be too much to bear. How do you keep going? Sometimes, you have all you need in your own backyard.

Carla

C Carla: The End of Reason

Monkey’s New Friend

THE

END OF

REASON

Michelle Meets Her Match

Hope House Girls Series Written by Charlotte S. Snead Michelle Meets Her Match follows Michelle through her pediatric residency at Johns Hopkins University, where she falls in love with a fellow resident who is from South Africa. His father is a diamond merchant and both he and the doctor’s mother meet Michelle before they are married in the USA. As dual citizens the couple travel back and forth between the two countries sharing their families. The two of them are united around the care of critically ill children.

Friday, November 20, 9 am – 3 pm Book Signing Country Barn Flea Market & Antique Mall, Rt 19, behind the Valero in Hansonville, VA “every story needs a book”

AUTHORS on the ROAD Linda Hudson Hoagland Author of: Snooping Can Be Regrettable; Snooping Can Be Scary; Snooping Can Be Uncomfortable; Snooping Can Be Helpful – Sometimes; Onward & Upward; Missing Sammy; Snooping Can Be Doggone Deadly; Snooping Can Be Devious; Snooping Can Be Contagious; Snooping Can Be Dangerous; The Best Darn Secret; and anthologies Easter Lilies; Broken Petals; Wild Daisies; These Haunted Hills; and These Haunted Hills Book 2 Sunday, November 1, 9 am – 3 pm Book Signing Country Barn Flea Market & Antique Mall, Rt 19, behind the Valero in Hansonville, VA

Friday, November 20, 6 pm – 9 pm Book Signing, Holiday Bazaar Russell County Conference Center Lebanon, VA Saturday, November 21, 10 am – 6 pm Book Signing, Holiday Bazaar Russell County Conference Center Lebanon, VA Sunday, November 22, 1 pm – 6 pm Book Signing, Holiday Bazaar Russell County Conference Center Lebanon, VA Friday, November 27, 9 am – 3 pm Book Signing Country Barn Flea Market & Antique Mall, Rt 19, behind the Valero in Hansonville, VA Saturday, November 28, 11 am – 4 pm Book Signing, Big Walker Lookout Wytheville, VA Sunday, November 29, 11 am – 4 pm Book Signing, Big Walker Lookout Wytheville, VA

Ask the Book Editor Judi Light Hopson

Q: Judi, I have my novel finished. I’m

ready to turn it over for editing; however, I have one small problem. Suddenly, I feel nervous that my family members won’t like my book. Or worse, I worry they’ll be jealous of me. Am I crazy? –Brianna J., St. Louis, MO

A: Brianna, I know that feeling. Every

writer has felt that way. This is where your inner critic must be ignored. Some may not like your book. Some may feel very jealous. Your solution? Feel the fear and get published anyway! This is your best shot at immortality. –Judi Light Hopson

Friday, November 6, 9 am – 3 pm Book Signing Country Barn Flea Market & Antique Mall Rt 19, behind the Valero in Hansonville, VA Saturday, November 7, 10 am – 3 pm Book Signing 2nd Annual Holiday Haven Craft Show & Sale Avoca Christian Church, 2417 Volunteer Pkwy Bristol, TN

The Silent Trilogy

(New Young Adult Series)

Sunday, November 8, 9 am – 3 pm Book Signing Country Barn Flea Market & Antique Mall, Rt 19, behind the Valero in Hansonville, VA Tuesday, November 10, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm Appalachian Authors Guild General Meeting Shoney’s, Abingdon, VA Friday, November 13, 9 am – 3 pm Book Signing Country Barn Flea Market & Antique Mall, Rt 19, behind the Valero in Hansonville, VA Saturday, November 14, 10 am – 2 pm Book Signing Tri-Cities Last Stop Christmas Shop Vendor Fair, Holiday Inn, Bristol, VA Sunday, November 15, 9 am – 3 pm Book Signing Country Barn Flea Market & Antique Mall, Rt 19, behind the Valero in Hansonville, VA

Appalachian Authors Guild On November 10, 2020, Appalachian Authors Guild will meet at Shoney’s in Abingdon, VA, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. At this general meeting officers for 2021 will be installed followed by a grab bag exchange. All are welcome to attend.

by Author Diane S. Barna

Amazon.com or Barnesandnoble.com EXPERT BOOK EDITING SERVICES

Make Your Writing Dream Come True! Every person has a story to tell. Why not dedicate yourself to writing that novel or nonfiction book soon? Let’s work together to make your dream a reality!

Judi Light Hopson Call:

423.743.9052 Email:

judihopson@earthlink.net

voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 19

the Soul Healing of Story of the Tapestry: A

love, e someone you When you los rself... le piece of you you lose a litt

more has experienced lost fair, and Olivia ife isn't always er age of two, she t, of it. At the tend , as a young adul than her share she adored. Then ed pack whom er, God broth Has . sister her big she r and then her es fathe etim her Som life? she loses moved out of her and ases suitc up his risking ause it means wonders. —too hard—bec t her, Loving is hard joy and love awai the else. But could ful thinking, and losing someone scape of whys, the wish land days the the nd Jack, to beyo herself drawn has to finds much She so ts? but regre en, Ragweed Gard architect for The own hear t first. her in en happ tioned ones and ques have lost loved here.” “Readers who will find comfort in the process Hospital, NC God’s presence Pitt Memorial

—Dr. Rober t R.

of the Soul the Healing A Story of

Shelton,

Morrie. Tuesdays with d well be the next “Tapestry coul feel when we lose sore spots we all It touches the Barnes and Noble Payne, CRM, —Lynn ” someone we love. widely used hanging story A poignant, life-c church libraries by hospices and magazine es and Gardens Hom r Bette in Featured

U.S. $14.95 CAN $19.50

Darden Hunter D.

s m

This Month’s Featured Books

Hunter D. Darde

2018 COPYRIGHT TARA SIZEMORE COVER DESIGN: INC PUBLISHING, JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING.COM JANCAROL

Doreen J. Oberg

Hunter D. Darden

Cathy Peters-Sidebottom

Leigh Anne W. Hoover

Inspirational Reads for Cozy Evenings 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 within 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.

Life isn’t always fair, and Olivia has experienced more than her share of it. At the tender age of two, she lost her big brother, whom she adored. Then, as a young adult, she loses her father and then her sister. Has God packed up his suitcases and moved out of her life? Sometimes she wonders. Loving is hard—too hard— because it means risking losing someone else. But could joy and love await her, beyond the days of whys, the wishful thinking, and the regrets? She finds herself drawn to Jack, the landscape architect for The Ragweed Garden, but so much has to happen in her own heart first.

Looking for a Christian message with a dose of humor that touches your heart? I Will Lift Up My Eyes to the Hills is exactly what you are looking for. Author Cathy Peters-Sidebottom has captured the perfect prescription of the word and laughter. She paints a picture of country life through her stories that takes you back to your own childhood and a simpler time. While entertaining, often humorous, sometimes tugging at your heart, this collection is inspirational and delightful.

Discover the bond of friendship with an unsuspecting relationship developed through reading. You will laugh, and you will cry as Leigh Anne W. Hoover introduces you to Ralph. Through their story, you will also discover God’s strength and His prevailing love and grace. “Leigh Anne Hoover’s Reading with Ralph is a compelling journey of faith, perseverance, gentle humor and mutual trust. Leigh Anne wisely reveals how the roles of teacher and student are communal, and how the source of seemingly random connections and inspirations are divine intervention.” —Mary Alice Monroe, New York Times bestselling author of Beach House Memories

The Wisdom Collector Journal by Francisco 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.” Available in paperback, hardback, and in Spanish.

Jan-Carol Publishing Books

Order this book directly from JCP — for a discounted price and FREE shipping! Call 423-926-9983. (Sale Ends November 30, 2020)

www.Jancarolpublishing.com • www.Amazon.com • www.Barnesandnoble.com 20 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Voicemail oicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

The Boy Who Truly Ran Away With the Circus

y big heart is shattered. Bill Carter was a member of my ETSU family back in the mid 80’s—my bruddah, my sidekick. From late night runs to Kroger to mess with the PA system, to loading college stuff into my old Dodge Charger and his old green Rambler. From a Sunday night road trip to Roanoke for no reason at all, to watching old movies, and even a job interview tape where he talked me into applying for a position with the WWF (yep, the ‘rasslin’ group!) that I’m certain Vince McMahon and Company still laugh over at Christmas parties. He inspired me, helped free my very soul to grow into who I am today by always being himself. Life will never be as sweet again. We hadn’t seen each other in far too long. He was one of the first anchors on the then-new All News Network, before 24/7 news channels were everywhere. He moved on to doing Public Relations for circuses—including the Greatest Show on Earth! He didn’t have siblings, his parents passed long ago. We chatted on Facebook, but now I realize not enough. I treasure his magnificent, autographed, photograph book of his time with Cole Brothers Circus, one of the last times we talked. He was wintering at the circus’ Florida home, deciding what path he’d take. I offered he could come here, stay with us, because I always knew he’d find his way. Shortly thereafter, he messaged about his latest gig, and his excitement to be back on the road.

Last month, I learned that he suffered a stroke while traveling and never regained consciousness, passing peacefully. The man who worked with Roy Rogers, Hugh Hefner, President Jimmy Carter, Penn & Teller, and a myriad of circus, television, and movie stars. The boy who truly ran away with the circus. Another of my life heroes is gone. From the kid that never left his hometown, this vagabond soul let me live vicariously through his journeys, let me travel in circus tents and on color-filled trains through his photography, let me grow by simply being his friend. As I write this, I’m not ashamed to admit I’m not holding back my tears. And to be honest—I can’t. One of the last movies we watched in college was Bogart in “Treasure of the Sierra Madre.” Days later, we loaded our cars as we went away to life—never getting back together in person, instead I selfishly settled for letters, emails, and the like. How I regret that—from the knees of my heart. As we hauled the very last of many, many loads out of those ETSU dorm rooms, he deadpanned a line from that movie. And how appropriate it is right now. “Thanks, mountain!”

{

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.

3–7 PM ERYDAY V E R U O HAPPY H BEERS ON TAP 20 IC LIVE MUS

$5 LUNCH MENU & GLUTEN FREE MENU

“Virginia's Most Awarded DJ Service”

3119 BRISTOL HWY • JOHNSON N CITY, Y TN ROCKSWOODFIRED.COM

(276) 759-1102 | www.kenheath.com

423.262.0444 voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 21

Thanksgiving During the Pandemic M

uch like the holidays that preceded it in 2020, Thanksgiving figures to be different this year. An ongoing pandemic has changed the way much of the world lives their lives, including how holidays are celebrated. Families must make their own decisions about getting together this holiday season, but hosts who intend to welcome guests into their homes this Thanksgiving can take certain steps to keep everyone as safe as possible. • Scale back the guest list. Families accustomed to large Thanksgiving gatherings can scale the festivities back this year in an effort to keep everyone safe. Consider hosting a meal for immediate family members only, as the Environmental Protection Agency notes that COVID-19 may spread more easily in indoor environments via airborne particles. Extended family members can visit

each other over the long holiday weekend to ensure everyone still sees each other, but keep such visits outdoors when possible. • Consider eating Thanksgiving dinner outside. If the weather permits, consider eating Thanksgiving dinner outside this year. Doing so may limit everyone’s exposure to the respiratory droplets that researchers say can spread the virus when inhaled. If necessary, serve the meal earlier than you normally would so everyone can eat in midday when it’s still warm outside. Hosts also can consider serving something more convenient than turkey, which takes a long time to cook, and limiting side dishes to one or two items. • Assign seats. If the meal will be served indoors, then hosts can assign seats to protect those most vulnerable to serious illness from COVID-

450 Commerce Dr. • Abingdon, VA • (I-81 Exit 17) 276.628.4797 • www.alfresscolifestyles.com Mon–Fri 10am–5:00pm , Sat 10am–2pm

22 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

19. Instead of cramming everyone in at one table, set up temporary tables and have guests sit in every other seat rather than next to one another. Isolate the vulnerable as much as possible while still ensuring they can engage in conversation. • Discourage guests from attending if they feel sick. A list of COVID19 symptoms can be found at www. cdc.gov. In the days prior to Thanksgiving, hosts can share that list with guests via email or social media and discourage guests who are feeling ill on or around the holiday from attending the festivities. If necessary, make a to-go plate for ill relatives and drop it off at their homes so they can still enjoy Thanksgiving dinner. • Stock up on hand soap and hand sanitizer. Hosts should make sure hand soap and sanitizer is readily available throughout their homes.

Preheat oven to 400 F. Mix together the first five ingredients and place on baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. While sweet potatoes and onions are roasting, shred cheese and set aside. Whisk the egg mixture and set aside. Once potatoes and onions have finished roasting, spoon them into the pre-baked pie shell. Next, layer the shredded cheese on top of the sweet potatoes. Reduce oven to 375 F. Pour egg mixture over the cheese and potatoes. Place quiche in the oven on a center rack. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until eggs are set.

Holiday Turkey

Makes 15 servings

Secret family turkey recipes may reign supreme in some households, but holiday hosts with no such resources can consider this unique recipe for “Holiday Turkey” from Andrew Schloss’ Cooking Slow.

1 fresh turkey, about 15 pounds, preferably free-range 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 quart apple cider 2 teaspoons dried poultry seasoning Coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Remove the giblets from the turkey and discard (or save for another use). Rinse the turkey inside and out and pat dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with salt and pepper. Refrigerate, uncovered, for at least 12 hours and up to 24 hours. During that time, the surface of the turkey will become visibly dry and the skin will tighten; this encourages a nice crisp skin on the finished bird. Remove the turkey from the refrigerator 1 hour before you plan to start roasting. Preheat the oven to 450 F. Put the turkey on a rack set in a large, flameproof roasting pan. Drizzle the oil over the top. Roast for 1 hour. Reduce the oven temperature to 175 F. Pour the cider into the roasting pan and sprinkle the poultry seasoning in the liquid. Continue roasting until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of a thigh (but not touching bone) registers to 170 F. Transfer the turkey to a carving board, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest for about 15 minutes (see tip). Meanwhile, skim the fat from the surface of the liquid in the pan. Put the roasting pan over two

burners and bring the pan drippings to a boil over high heat. Cook until the juices reduce and thicken slightly, enough to coat a spoon, about 10 minutes. Taste for seasoning. Carve the turkey and serve with cider pan juices. Resting tip: Slow-roasted meats need far less resting time (pretty much none) than those that are traditionally roasted. The reason for resting meat that has been roasted at a high temperature is to allow juices that have collected in the cooler center time to migrate back into the dryer (hotter) exterior sections after it comes out of the oven. Because slow-roasted meats are cooked evenly and a temperature that keeps most of the juices in place, a resting period is largely unnecessary. A brief resting time does allow the meat to become a little firmer as it cools, making it easier to carve.

Sweet Potato Quiche

If you want to put a new twist on this Thanksgiving staple, whip up this recipe for “Sweet Potato Quiche,” courtesy of the North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission. Submitted to the NC State Fair Tailgate Recipe Contest by Kristen Frybort, this recipe marries sweet tubers with decadent cheese, rich cream and savory spices. Makes 8 servings 2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes 3⁄4 cup yellow onion, diced 2 1⁄2 tablespoons olive oil 1⁄2 teaspoon salt Black pepper to taste Egg mixture: 4 eggs 1 cup heavy cream 1⁄2 teaspoon fresh rosemary, minced 1⁄2 tablespoon fresh parsley, minced 1 1⁄2 teaspoons salt 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper 3 ounces Gruyere cheese, shredded Pre-baked deep dish pie crust

ChocolateStrawberry Pie

Holiday hosts with a lot on their plates might not have the time to prepare homemade baked goods for their guests. Thankfully, the following recipe for “Chocolate-Strawberry Pie” from Addie Gundry’s No-Bake Desserts can be prepared in just 15 minutes, all without turning on the oven. Yields 1 pie 1 pint fresh strawberries, washed, trimmed and halved 1 store-bought (or homemade) chocolate cookie pie crust 2⁄3 cup sugar 1⁄4 cup cornstarch 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 1⁄4 teaspoon minced crystallized ginger 1⁄8 teaspoon ground nutmeg Pinch of kosher or sea salt 6 large egg yolks 2 1⁄2 cups half-and-half 6 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped 1⁄2 tablespoon rum extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Additional strawberries for garnish (optional) Place the strawberry halves in a single layer in the bottom of the pie crust. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, cocoa powder, ginger, nutmeg, and salt over medium heat. Whisk in the egg yolks to create a thick paste. Gradually whisk in the half-and-half until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute. Remove from the heat. Add the chocolate and whisk until combined. Add the rum and vanilla extracts. Cool the mixture for 4 minutes. Pour the filling over the strawberries and up to the top of the crust. Chill the pie for 2 hours or until set. Garnish with additional strawberries, if desired. voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 23

Exploring Hospice and Palliative Care November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, and hospices across the country are reaching out to raise awareness about the highest quality care for all people coping with life-limiting illnesses.

Hospice care

The National Institute on Aging notes that hospice care may be recommended when it is no longer possible to cure a serious illness or when a patient opts out of certain treatments. Like palliative care, hospice provides comprehensive comfort care and family support. However, attempts to cure the person’s illness are stopped in hospice. Hospice is typically recommended when a person with a terminal illness has alliative care and hospice are sometimes mistaken as the around six months or less to live. When people hear “going into hospice” they may think same thing, even though they’re quite different. Learning about each option can help adults identify which option this means entering a facility. However, hospice can take place is best for them should they one day require daily assistance. in many different settings, including at home, in a nursing home, in a hospital, or even a facility that specializes in hospice care. Palliative care Both palliative and hospice care bring together a team Palliative care may be available at any time for individuals with serious and potentially life-threatening conditions. of health care professionals with special skills. This team can According to Healthline, palliative care is focused on improv- include doctors, nurses, social workers, therapists, spiritual ing the overall wellness of individuals with serious illnesses, advisors, and trained volunteers. Everyone works together such as Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, COPD, and other chronic to address patients’ emotional, medical and spiritual needs. The main difference between palliative and hospice illnesses. Since it is based on individuals’ needs, palliative care care is when each is offered to a patient. Palliative care can can differ from one person to the next. WebMD says a palliative care program frequently aims to be available at any time, regardless of illness stage, prognoease pain and help with other problems, including improv- sis or life expectancy. Hospice care is only available when ing comfort. It is used in addition to other treatments. Pallia- an illness is no longer responding to treatment. It is sometive care also can help patients and their families if an illnesss times known as end-of-life care. However, a person can makes it more difficult to get around, leads to depression or come out of hospice care should his or her condition begin to improve. adversely affects the family, including caregivers. Patients and their families can discuss the options of palliative and hospice care with their health Life Care Center of Gray care teams. While these types of care have become much more We are a perfect choice for: accessible in recent years, they may • Short-Term Rehabilitation not be available everywhere. It also • Long-Term Care • Post-Operative Recovery pays to ask questions about health Life Care Center of Gray focuses on inpatient and insurance coverage to determine outpatient rehabilitation with 24-hour skilled nursing care. if the costs of palliative or hospice care will be covered by a provider. Stop by today for a tour! A long-term care policy also may 791 Old Gray Station Rd • Gray, TN be an option to cover palliative 423.477.7146 • lifecarecenterofgraytn.com services.

24 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Detecting Breast Cancer By Deana Landers, Morningcoffeebeans.com

f you are thinking about skipping your mammogram this year, I suggest you don’t. Why? Because by the time you can feel a cancerous lump in your breast, the cancer has been in your body for two to five years. I didn’t have a mammogram last year and almost didn’t have one this year. I was just tired of the yearly, uncomfortable squeezing and mashing of my breast. However, when I told my doctor that I would skip the yearly procedure, she asked me about my sister, who had died ten years ago, only days after being diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer on her birthday. “Won’t you be turning seventy?” she asked. It sounded odd to me because I don’t feel seventy. Actually, I have been working on a story for my seventieth birthday called Age is Just a Number. The morning I was supposed to go in for the mammogram, I received a call saying my brother had died during the night in his sleep of COPD, a lung disease that blocks airflow and makes it difficult to breathe. I was upset and decided to cancel the mammogram, but my husband insisted I keep the appointment. I was asked if I wanted the 3-D mammogram instead of the usual 2-D mammogram. The 3-D mammogram creates a 3D image of the breast, which has been shown to improve breast cancer detection by 27–50%. Not all health insurance will pay for it, so the patient is informed that they will submit the claim, but the patient may have to pay for the additional cost, which is not much and worth it. I started to say no but changed my mind and said yes. After the mammogram, the technician said, “Hmmm, I think I see something new.” I brushed it off and said it was probably scar tissue. I had a previous biopsy for what turned out to be a benign tumor a few months after my sister died. While we were out of town for my brother’s funeral, the doctor’s office called three times but didn’t leave a message. I subconsciously knew that wasn’t good, but I had so much more to think about. My brother was the last of my ten siblings. He was divorced and had not been close to his children, so I wanted to help with the final arrangements. When I got home, the doctor’s office called to set up an appointment. There was a lump and they wanted to biopsy it. I had done self-examinations, but had not felt a lump in my breast.

And that’s the thing we don’t realize. It can seem like a lump appeared out of nowhere—especially if you or your doctor have recently examined your breasts and not felt anything suspicious—but in reality, the cancer has simply doubled that one last time necessary to be noticeable. Like most cancers, breast cancer begins as one malignant cell, which then divides and becomes two bad cells, which divide again and become four bad cells, and so on. It has to divide 30 times before you can feel it. Up to the 28th cell division, neither you nor your doctor can detect it by hand. With most breast cancers, each division takes one to two months, so by the time you feel it has probably been in your breast for several years. It is important for all menopausal women to get regular mammograms. It is true that not all breast cancers can be diagnosed through a mammogram, but it is our best defense against breast cancer because it can detect the disease in its early stages, before it can be felt during a breast exam. Ten days later, I had a breast biopsy procedure under local anesthesia to remove a small sample of my breast tissue for laboratory tests. When my husband and I went in for the follow-up results, my doctor wanted to examine the incision. She said the biopsy site looked well. After she asked me how I was doing, she said, “Unfortunately I have some bad news. The biopsy results are positive for a malignant tumor in your breast.” My thoughts went back ten years earlier, when a doctor in Georgia said to my sister’s family and me, “Unfortunately, she has cancer that has metastasized from her breast to her lungs and liver.” After a few moments, I realized that my doctor was still talking. My husband and I were stunned. “However, fortunately, it is a very small Ductal Carcinoma that does not appear to be invasive. I think we can remove all of the tumor in one surgery.” I had to wait another ten days for a surgical lumpectomy to remove the malignant tumor. At first, I couldn’t say I had breast cancer. I just said I had a tumor in my breast, but there was a very still moment when I stopped and said, “I have breast cancer.” I began to think about all the people I know who have cancer. I have stood beside them, prayed for them, comforted, and encouraged them as family, a friend, a nurse, and a pastor’s wife, but I never truly understood how they felt when their doctor said, “Unfortunately, you have cancer.” Until now.

{

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. voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 25

YOU DON’T HAVE TO WAIT FOR A BEAUTIFUL SMILE! ONE CROWN. ONE VISIT. CAD/CAM Technology • Crowns Made While You Wait • No Impressions • No Temporaries • Long Lasting

RICE DENTAL ARTS JANET HATCHER RICE, DDS, PC

Schedule Your Appointment Today! (423) 989-7733 • www.ricedentalarts.com 136 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Bristol, TN

26 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Give Back to Health Care Workers

illions of people across the globe donate to charities or volunteer as a means of bolstering their communities and helping the less fortunate. Such help is valuable no matter when it’s offered, but giving back in 2020 has proven to be an especially necessary endeavor. Stressful working environments and concerns about bringing the virus home and potentially infecting their families have made the challenges of fighting the pandemic extra tough for health care workers. Supporting such workers in these uncertain times can be a great way for people to show just how much they appreciate the extraordinary efforts of doctors, nurses, EMTs, and others who continue to confront COVID19 every day. • Keep it simple. Efforts to give back to health care workers need not be extraordinary. Simple gestures like preparing a weeknight meal for health care workers and their families, offering to babysit on a weekend afternoon or tackle a few chores around the house can help exhausted health care workers catch their breath. • Donate more than just your time and effort. An actively engaged general public can reassure health care workers that they’re not alone in the fight against COVID-19 and other potentially deadly viruses and diseases. While blood is not used to treat COVID-19, various health organizations, including the U.S. Surgeon General’s Office, have expressed concerns that hospitals will not have enough blood on hand to treat accident victims and sick people who need blood to survive. Social distancing measures may be keeping potential blood donors away, but the American Red Cross is urging people to continue donating blood so health care workers can meet the needs of patient care. • Support efforts to procure more funding for hospitals. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, both the American Hospital Association and the American Nurses Association have expressed hospitals’ need for more financial support as they continue to battle the virus. By supporting such efforts and encouraging others to do the same, people looking to give back can send a message to health care workers that they’re supported and that their voices are being heard. Health care workers continue to confront the COVID-19 virus every day. Giving back to these valued members of the community is a great way to show just how much their efforts are appreciated.

BRISTOL WHERE IT ALL BEGAN.

PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY! HEALTHCARE WORKERS AND A GUEST RECEIVE FREE ADMISSION THROUGH AUGUST 3OTH. 101 Country Music Way | Bristol, VA 24201 | 423-573-1927 BIRTHPLACEOFCOUNTRYMUSIC.ORG

donations of things like pet food, blankets, and cleaning supplies. Many shelters have wish lists on their websites.

Election Day — Tuesday, November 3 Our nation’s Election Day is a very important day for our country. Yes, politics can (and has proven to) get nasty, ugly, and disrespectful. Nonetheless, it’s important to teach our kids WHY the election (and voting) is important. Find ways to show your family patriotism in a kind and respectful way this November 3!

National STEM/STEAM Day — Sunday, November 8

By Amanda Hollifield Macaroni Kid Tri-Cities

hanksgiving is definitely the highlight for November, but there are many, many reasons we can celebrate and have fun during this amazing, fall month! Make sure you subscribe to our FREE, weekly newsletter to get your family fun delivered right to your email each week, including our hyper-local event calendar, fall recipes, crafts, games, giveaways, and more! You can subscribe for free at tricities.macaronikid.com. Make sure to also check out our fabulous National Edition including Macaroni Kid Eats!

STEM/STEAM Day falls on November 8. There’s no way around it: children are significantly better off with strong science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics skills. That’s why STEM and STEAM education programs are so important. It’s undebatable that these subjects push society forward, and these programs help to find fun and engaging ways to teach them to students, which is all worth commemorating. So, on November 8, we celebrate STEM/STEAM Day! Check out the upcoming Macaroni Kid Tri to plan some simple science, technology, engineering, art, or math projects to do at home with the kids.

Veterans Day — Wednesday, November 11 Celebrate a veteran in your life by having your kids write a letter, draw a picture, or interview them about their experiences. Need to connect to a veteran? Operation Gratitude collects and distributes letters to veterans, as well as deployed troops, new recruits, and first responders. They even have a guide to letter writing to help you and your kids get started.

National Peanut Butter Lovers Month As if I needed another reason to enjoy one of my favorite peanut butter and chocolate candies (probably the reason it’s the first to go from my kids’ Halloween stash)! Have fun with a variety of different recipes and snacks the whole month! Macaroni Kid Eats has a delish no-bake cookie recipe with PB icing!

Daylight Saving Time — Sunday, November 1 Talk about a double blessing this Halloween! Not only does Halloween fall on a Saturday (Hallelujah), but Daylight Saving Time falls on the day after Halloween, Sunday, November 1, so we all can enjoy falling back one hour and gaining that one hour of sleep!

National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week — November 1–7 As a mother of two rescue fur babies, I have a deep love and appreciation for our local animal shelters. What a great time to teach your kids the value of volunteering and helping those in need! Volunteer at your local animal shelter or take in 28 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Thanksgiving Day — Thursday, November 26 Turkey, pumpkin, mashed potatoes, green beans, and gravy....bring on Thanksgiving Day! Eat as much as you want, but remember the reason for the season and this year especially, we need to sit around the table or couch and vocalize what we are thankful for in 2020.

Small Business Saturday — Saturday, November 28 More than ever we need to show some love to our LOCAL businesses this year! We love supporting local businesses all year long — and hope you do too! Small Business Saturday is a chance for you to support local businesses while shopping.

{

Amanda Hollifield is a Johnson City hometown girl who, like many women, wears many hats, but her favorite is Mom! After her ‘real job’, Amanda enjoys being the Publisher Mom for the local Macaroni Kid Tri-Cities TN/VA newsletter, helping local families find their family fun, and being a mom to Grace (12) and Jackson (8) and wife to her Duke Blue Devil lovin’ husband, Brooks. Follow her on Facebook @MacaroniKidTriCities and Instagram @mackidtricities or email her at amandah@macaronikid.com.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | November 2020 | 29

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.

Visit

THE FINER CONSIGNOR Booth! B ooth!

Spend an Hour — Spend the Day! Shopping Made Fun!

Furniture, ture, Vintage Vin ntage Clothing, Handbags, CD D Audiobooks Audiobooks, and Much More! Unique and one of a kind items throughout!

Located at JJ’s Vendor Mall & Home Décor Exit 7 • 200 Linden Square Dr., Bristol, VA MON: 11–7, WED–SAT: 11–7, SUN: 12–6, TUES: CLOSED

BE HAPPY IN 2020! NO BUGS! ALL STATE PEST & TERMITE CONTROL • All-State Pest & Termite Control is bonded and insured in both Tennessee & Virginia • All technicians are trained, certified and screened 3133 Hwy 126 Blountville, TN

10% DISCOUNT FOR SENIORS AND VETERANS OR ACTIVE MILITARY

SCHEDULE AN INSPECTION TODAY! VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.weknockemdead.com Bristol: 423-279-9866 • Kingsport: 423-246-1901 Johnson City: 423-274-3993 Surrounding Areas: 1-888-850-0445

30 | November 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

CLUES ACROSS

1. Upright post on a boat 5. Sentimental person 10. Native American tribe 12. Wear away 14. Where you’re going 16. Doctor 18. Popular Chinese dialect 19. One point east of due south 20. Northern sea duck 22. Note 23. Wives (law) 25. Trigonometric function 26. A way to communicate (abbr.) 27. Swiss river 28. No (Scottish) 30. Commercials 31. Large instrument 33. __ Chantilly, __ de Menthe 35. Small, saclike cavities 37. High and thin in tone 38. Treat extremely well 40. Famed track star Usain 41. Secure web connection (abbr.) 42. Rob of energy 44. Paving material 45. Cool! 48. Tip of Aleutian Islands 50. Indicates silence 52. Water in the solid state 53. Security interests 55. Popular hoopster Jeremy 56. Shed tears 57. Low frequency 58. Harmful bacterium 63. Common language: lingua __ 65. Standards of perfection 66. They consist of two parts 67. A detailed description of design

CLUES DOWN

1. More (Spanish) 2. A subdivision of a play 3. Japanese title 4. More jittery 5. Fabric 6. Luke’s mentor __-Wan 7. Cleaving tool 8. Ancient city of Egypt 9. 36 inches 10. Farewell 11. Second to last 13. Improved by critical editing 15. Defensive weapon (abbr.) 17. Fancy attire 18. __ Farrow, actress 21. Completely opposed 23. Supervises flying 24. Pouch 27. True firs 29. Mistake 32. Computing platform (abbr.) 34. Snakelike fish 35. Greatly horrify 36. Despicable person 39. Tell on 40. Ballplayer’s tool 43. Central Brazilian town 44. Court game 46. Land 47. “The Partridge Family” actress Susan 49. Retract a statement 51. Data executive 54. Capital of Yemen 59. Portable computer screen material 60. Electronic data processing 61. “Matt Houston” actor Horsley 62. Resinous substance 64. Rural delivery

Barter at the Moonlite Drive In bartertheatre.com | 276.628.3991

• PERSONAL INJURY • CAR ACCIDENTS • MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS JAMES E. ARRINGTON, JR ATTORNEY AT LAW ARRINGTON SCHELIN A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

OFF OFFICE BRISTOL, VA

844.458.4591 • ArringtonSchelin.com Visit our website and sign up for our newsletter!

DID NOT PLAN FOR THIS?

WE CAN HELP!

FREE CONSULTATION! CALL TODAY!

844.458.4591

Our policy: You pay no attorney fee until money is received (except for cost advanced) Licensed to Practice in Virginia: James E. Arrington, Jr. Licensed to Practice in Virginia and Tennessee: Chadrick R. Gilbert Authorized by James E. Arrington, Jr., 1315 Euclid Avenue, Bristol, VA