Voice Magazine 1220

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Janie C. Jessee

December 2020 | Volume 17 | Issue 12

December Hot Hunk Hunt!

Bad Habits that May Be Affecting Appearance

The November “Hot Hunk” was Finn Wittrock in the Birthplace of Country Music Museum ad on page 27.

Daniel Levy 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: Janice Helton Bristol,TN as the winner in the November Hot Hunk Hunt!

Thanks to ALL for sending in your entry!

5

Name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone Number: July Hot Hunk Hunt!

Email:

Gifts That Can Make Social Distancing More Enjoyable 7

Pause and Reflect Pam Blair 8

Where did I pick up my copy of Voice Magazine?

Little Metal Christmas Trees

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

Deana Landers 9

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

PLEASE, ONE ENTRY PER HOUSEHOLD

Unique Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve

April Hensley 11

Keep Making Art: A Message from Artist Laken Bridges Anna Buchanan 14

Venice, Italy

Gifts for Gardeners and Outdoor Lovers

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.

Janie C. Jessee 12

13

The April “Hot Hunk” was Robert Downey Jr. on page 31.

HOT HUNK LOCATION:

JCP—A Look at the Year Ahead

Nancy Binder 16

Jan-Carol Publishing New Releases 18

JCP Featured Books 20

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Christmas Recipes 26

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Publisher Janie C. Jessee is featured on our cover.

Photography by Rebecca Griffin / London Vine Studios Makeup by Ren Allen / Faces by Ren

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2020 | 3

FREE Celebrating our 16th anniversary!

We wouldn’t be here and there without all of you!

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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 Deana Landers

Katina Rose Brenna Robinson

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 DISTRIBUTION Karen Corder Staff

Wishing you all the joys of the season and happiness throughout the coming year.

Janie C. Jessee, Editor-in-Chief

4 | December 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 17, Issue 12) 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.

Bad Habits that May Be Affecting Appearance

W

ho doesn’t want to look and feel her best? Many women go to great lengths in the name of beauty. But not every beauty tip or practice is beneficial. Women may be tempted to repeat bad beauty habits when they get the desired results, but doing so can put their bodies at risk.

Turning a blind eye to these habits is never a good idea. In fact, recognizing potential beauty pitfalls and how to avoid them can promote long-term health, and nothing is more beautiful than that.

• Failure to drink enough water.

One of the most effective ways to nurture skin comes right out of the tap in the kitchen sink.

When people forget to drink adequate amounts of water, loss of fluids can result in dry skin that may have a tired, faded look. Even subtle wrinkles may become more pronounced as a result.

• Getting tan from the sun or tanning beds. A warm, golden glow is a hallmark of long days spent in the great outdoors.

Many women aspire to have a beautiful tanned look and will spend hours in the sun or at tanning salons. Dermatologists warn that ultraviolet rays that come from the sun or tanning beds can be very harmful to the skin, even if you do not burn. Premature aging and skin cancer are two risks.

• Wearing dark nail polish. Polishing nails can coordinate with style trends. Women who regularly polish their nails with dark hues and leave the color on too long may find their nails become discolored, especially after using less expensive polishes with powerful dyes.

Change nail colors and give nails time to recover between applications.

• Using dirty makeup brushes. Cosmetics can completely transform appearance, often with minimal effort. By failing to clean brushes after frequent use, women are potentially exposing themselves to bacteria and other microorganisms that congregate on brushes and applicators. This bacteria eventually can spread into the beauty products themselves.

• Popping pimples. The temptation to pop pimples is significant. The wellness resource Verywell Health says popping pimples forces pore debris deeper into follicles, can make blemishes worse and

increases the chances of developing acne scars and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Use a warm compress on pimples to speed up the natural healing process instead of popping them.

• Taking hot showers. While this may be more of a concern in winter, when a steamy shower is the perfect way to chase away the chill, water that is too hot can remove a layer of the protective oils on skin and hair. Moderate the temperature instead.

Bad beauty habits can compromise women’s appearance and their overall well-being. Some women may benefit from changing their beauty routines.

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Gifts That Can Make Social Distancing More Enjoyable

E

xchanging gifts with loved ones is a holiday season tradition. That tradition figures to continue this year, though families will almost certainly have to adjust the ways they exchange gifts.

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 in the winter of 2019-20 changed how people across the globe live their lives. Social distancing guidelines encouraged people to limit get-togethers, particularly indoor gatherings. Experts anticipate restrictions on indoor gatherings will continue in the early part of the winter of 2020–21, which could force families to rethink how they get together during the holiday season.

Families also may want to think outside the box when buying gifts for their loved ones, targeting items that can make social distancing easier. The following gift ideas can make a socially distant holiday season that much more special for a loved one.

Streaming subscription Movie theaters have been closed for months in many areas. But movie lovers still want to see their favorite flicks, so a streaming subscription to a service such as Netflix or Amazon Prime can be just what they need to stay entertained while social distancing this winter.

For fans of classic films, including indie movies, foreign films, and big studio productions, a subscription to the Criterion Channel might make the perfect gift. Curated by the Criterion Collection, this streaming service provides access to a library of more than 1,000 classic and contemporary films, making it an ideal gift for the family film buff.

ships or single classes, making them ideal for loved ones of all skill and interest levels.

Technology Technology has helped many people stay connected with friends and family while social distancing, so a new tablet, laptop or desktop computer can be just what people need to fully engage in family Zoom sessions or weekly virtual happy hours with coworkers and friends. If a new tablet or laptop stretches your budget, consider a pair of noise-canceling headphones, which can make it easier to concentrate while working remotely in a crowded house.

Crafting kit Hobbyists may have had their passions for crafting reinvigorated while social distancing, making a crafting kit an ideal gift to help them fill their downtime. Beginner’s kits also can make an ideal gift for novices looking for an engaging, time-consuming hobby.

Cooking classes Many people have spent the last several months honing their culinary skills. Gift givers can help them take those skills to the next level by enrolling them in online cooking classes. The options are endless and some even include access to legendary celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay. Many online cooking classes feature monthly membervoicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2020 | 7

Pause and Reflect

By Pam Blair

for bed. And yet, early in the morning or right before that tooearly sunset, there’s a clarity of light and crispness to the air nce again the holiday season is upon that makes everything appear to stand out more than before. us and it’s almost a relief, as it marks I call these my “jump-out-of-your-skin-feel-good-moments” and the end of a tumultuous year filled I want to hold on to the way they make me happy to be alive. with confusion and heartache unlike any we Instead of worrying about buying the perfect present or have known. And yet, memories of better having the best decorations on the block, let’s take time to times prevail, as I see parents and their chilsavor the precious present, the here and now that will be dren in stores choosing Christmas lights and decorations with gone as soon as we round the next corner. I invite you to care. There is a palpable sense of promise and hope that we think about the moments that are special to you, the ones can celebrate this holiday as we have done before, by decorat- that turned your head or took your breath away. Gather ing our homes and keeping time-honored traditions alive. those thoughts and keep them in a special place, your own In years past, we told ourselves to take a deep breath virtual treasure box that you can open when things get a before diving into end of the year activities that can be over- little too crazy and time feels like it’s slipping by all too whelming, causing undue stress as we obsess about all the quickly. Here’s a sampling of moments that make me pause presents to buy, wrap, and mail, the cards to be sent and and reflect on the precious present: goodies to be baked. One thing that hasn’t changed is that • Crystal clear days and sunshine so brilliant that all now, more than ever, we need to press pause and reflect on things seem possible the precious, present moments when something amazing is • Grocery stores stocked with seasonal foods that bring happening right in front of us. happy memories to mind These moments are all around us, like experiencing the • Rounding a curve in the road that reveals a snowcapped spectacular fall colors on display this year. A good friend mountain in the distance recently described a tree he drove by that was filled with golden • Sipping something warm while fireplace logs are glowing color and pools of shimmering leaves on the ground beneath • A tree full of cardinals on a snowy day it. He said it was so stunning that he just wanted to stop and Yes, this will be a Christmas like no other, but we can gaze at it. We won’t forget how special the colors were this still make it one that will be remembered long after it’s gone. year, even while frosty mornings signal the start of cold, wintry months ahead. As in years past, Daylight Saving Time brought 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 darkness at an obscenely early hour when the sun sets around has authored and edited a book and numerous other publications. Contact her at pblair919@aol.com.

5 p.m. and we feel like we need to rush home and get ready

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8 | December 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Little Metal Christmas Trees

By Deana Landers, Morningcoffeebeans.com

I

t was small, about 2 ½ feet high, with green branches and a different color fiber optic light at each thistle’s end. It sat in a window of my house that faced the street on a small table I found in Mexico. The tiny twinkly lights were constantly changing, and it became a brilliant display every evening as darkness arrived.

Humble as it was, it represented Christmas for us.

Of course, our children were not that impressed with our little artificial tree. They grew up with the smell of pine saturating the house each year and couldn’t imagine we enjoyed decorating the house with anything but the traditional pine they remembered.

Decorating Christmas trees began as far back as the 16th century, but it began in my heart when we were children living on a farm in a small Georgia town where cedar and pine trees are plentiful. We had many different trees representing Christmas in our house. Since a forest surrounded our house, it was a common tradition for my dad and brothers to take the saw and trudge through the woods for hours until they found the perfect tree.

We had tall, bushy cedar trees that filled the entire living room, tall skinny pine trees that could hardly hold the ornaments, short trees that had to be positioned to hide their flaws, and even holly trees that dropped their red berries on the floor and attacked us with their thorny leaves every time we tried to place an ornament on the branch.

Whatever our dad could find in the woods, whether it was the perfect tree or one that we had to tie extra branches on, would be placed proudly near the window trimmed with multi-colored lights and silver tinsel to bid Merry Christmas to all who passed by.

I don’t think he would be disappointed with my little fiber optic tree. In fact, he may have been an inspi-

ration to others to create such beautiful trees. When I was little, he spent hours in his shop behind the house, building little trees out of wire, cement, and pine cones.

He took a plastic flower pot or jug, filled it with cement, and placed several pieces of heavy wire that had been weaved together to resemble the trunk of a small tree in it. After the cement dried he broke the pot and peeled it away from the cement bottom. Then he painted the bottom forest green. He attached to other pieces of wire to the trunk to make branches. Each branch would have several smaller pieces of wire wrapped around the branch, with its end pointed outward, as though it was a stem. There he would place a small hand-painted pine cone.

Sometimes we spent all day in the woods looking for those small, perfect shaped pine burrs for him to paint.

I remember the little paintbrush in his rough hands and baby food jars filled with different colored paints setting all along his homemade workbench.

Each burr was unique. Some were painted one brilliant color, while others were made to look like beautiful flowers with deep rich shades of color starting at the base of the petal and softening as it relaxed along the edge of the rough wood burr. When he was finished, it looked like a cross between a tree and a flower.

Sometimes he put them on a table in front of the house or at the edge of a busy road, and people would stop and buy them. I didn’t know how valuable they were at that time—maybe not in money, but memories.

Childhood memories can haunt us around the Christmas holidays. Some are good, and some may be bad. When I think of the little metal trees I watched my dad make, I wished I had saved one—perhaps it would have reminded me of the good times I had with him. I might have even set it on the little table in front of the window of my house to wish all those who passed by a Merry and Blessed Christmas.

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Deana Landers, a retired nurse and health educator, is Christian speaker who strives to educate and encourage. She may be contacted at dlanders1511@gmail.com or 276-780-7355.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2020 | 9

Holiday Gifts to Spark Home Improvement Ideas

H

oliday gifts that cater to projects around the house are likely to be highly valued this holiday season. Here are some ideas for home improvement-related gifts.

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plies, gift-givers can give a gift card to a neighborhood hardware store.

• Magazine subscription: There are plenty of ideas on the internet, but a subscription to a home remodeling or interior design magazine puts inspiration right in homeowners’ hands. Pages can be marked or cut out and used on idea boards.

• Tools and supplies: Homeowners just starting out may benefit from the basics. Stores often sell starter tool kits that can be used in home improvement-themed baskets. Experienced DIYers may have a special tool in mind that is outside their budget right now, like a chop saw or cordless power drill. Purchasing one of these items can help projects move along more smoothly.

• Expert consultation: Who can’t use a little help with their home remodeling efforts? Give the gift of a consultation from an interior designer or professional contractor to help complete plans that may be a little out of reach for the average DIYer. • Big-ticket item: Some friends and family members may want to pool their resources and offer loved ones an over-the-top gift. This can include a backyard playset for children, a storage shed, a pool installation, or even a new appliance package.

Gift ideas are endless and only limited by budget.

• Room re-do: All it may take is some new linens or accents to transform a room. From throw pillows to curtains to wall art, give the gift of an easy room makeover.

Riding the momentum of increased home improvement projects from the past several months, holiday shoppers can choose home-related gift ideas to keep the projects and ideas flowing.

Gifts for Gardeners and Outdoor Lovers

By April Hensley

T

he most magical season of the year has arrived and it’s time to think about what to get those hard-working gardeners and outdoor loving people in your life—and maybe buy yourself a special gift too.

Things have changed so much since last year. More people than ever are spending their off time at home. Some just enjoy sitting on their porches and others are diving into growing flowers and food.

Many people have started eating at home more and learning to preserve food. This year your holiday gift giving list could look a lot different than years before.

I’ve scoured my brain and the internet to see what’s new and necessary for us this holiday. I hope this helps give you some ideas for your loved ones. Have a Merry Christmas!

• There are many seed starting kits on the market now for succulents, cactus, herbs, trees, fruit trees, fruits

•

•

• •

like strawberries, and everything in between.

For those looking to be more Zen, a bonsai tree with a trimming kit could help them relax.

Bird houses and bat houses attract beautiful birds and pollinators, and help cut down on nuisance insects.

Gazing balls create a beautiful focal point in the garden.

Wind spinners are lovely for decoration and help scare away hungry critters from the garden.

TIME TO WINTERIZE YOUR FOUNTAIN, POND OR WATER FEATURE.

• Wind chimes help sooth frazzled nerves while relaxing outside.

• Gloves, tools, and aprons are gardening necessities.

• A subscription to a garden magazine is great for someone dreaming of spring during the cold winter months.

• Solar lights gently brighten the outdoors and create a calming atmosphere.

• Decorative pots and garden statues are gifts your loved one will admire every day.

• If someone is learning to preserve food, look into canning equipment or a food dehydrator.

• Make raised garden bed kits with free plans found online.

• Poinsettias are quick to pick up at the store and plant lovers will love adding them to their holiday decorating.

• You can never go wrong by giving a gardener vegetable and flower seeds and potting soil. Place it into a large basket they can use for harvesting.

• Gardening books and cookbooks are great for the amateur as well as the experienced. The books will be cherished and used for years to come and can be passed down.

• Mini greenhouses and cold frames can be built from scratch or purchased in a kit for gardeners who love growing during the cooler months.

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

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JCP—A Look at the Year Ahead

By Janie C. Jessee

W

e are still asking ourselves, where did 2020 go? Lockdowns, stay at home orders, wearing masks, a pandemic, a new presidential election, and having death surround us every day—all in one year!

What a year of challenges and changes!

Common questions are, “How are you doing?” and “How’s your business doing?”

Personally, I feel that this year has brought about change that will forever affect all of us.

The pandemic has taken our loved ones and friends, and created an atmosphere of fear.

Then when we see looting, destruction of statues, and protesting all in the name of justice and defunding the police departments, this unrest multiplies our fears. Added to the unrest is the circus of politics. Do any politicians really relate to the average American?

Recently, I read a commenter’s column in which the author wrote, “I will never forgive Trump and his supporters for what they did to this country.” How sad! Those words only support division and maintain separation. I feel that we should respect and honor each other, more than ourselves, and this will rebuild unity. We can’t change our past, but we can rebuild our future.

So, how do we welcome the new year with joy?

Professionally, Jan-Carol Publishing is no different than any small, local business.

Facing challenges, we had to regroup, redirect, and recover! Looking ahead, our goals for the New Year support our mantra—grow, expand, and continue to reach for the next level. With Jan-Carol Publishing establishing itself as the largest book publishing company in the region, local readers have noticed and have shown their support by buying our books!

Recapping 2020, JCP did see changes and growth. JCP is approaching 400 book titles with authors near and far. With that growth, we took our book distribution to a new level.

This was a tremendous endeavor and will prove to have many benefits for our authors and book lovers. JCP’s book sales did drop harshly in March, but sales picked up in May and have continued to slowly bounce back. What was exciting was seeing an increase of local inter12 | December 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Photo by Rebecca Griffin / London Vine Studios

Publisher

Janie C. Jessee est in our books and authors. Viewed as a mid-size book publisher, we are proud of all of our books, our authors, and their talents. I suggest that you take a look at our website for that special book, and if you are a member of a book club, contact me to find out how you may purchase books for your club. Why not support local authors? Submit your reviews to Voice Magazine for Women. Supporting the big New York publishers’ authors is great for them—but how about doing something great for the local authors and our region’s largest book publisher?

Voice Magazine for Women had a sharp drop in business as well since businesses were shut down and could only slowly open back up, but your support and local interest kept us going! It gave us the acknowledgment that the magazine is essential to the region.

I am extremely proud of my staff. Each one continued to make adjustments in schedules, family obligations, and personal commitments so that deadlines were met and the work kept moving along. My staff works diligently from home. We have regrouped with our Zoom meetings and found that it is okay that we stay connected virtually. We have redirected our marketing and promotion to have a stronger online presence. So, what does all this mean?

In 2021, JCP will be jumping onboard with many new projects. We are opening up opportunities for readers to become book reviewers for JCP. We hope to continue with the advancement of audiobooks. Our plans include revamping our website to provide book orders filled locally, showcasing authors, having monthly book bargains, and much more. (Sign up for our newsletter to keep in the know!) We are stepping up into the virtual world and we want you to be a part of our growth.

One vision for Voice Magazine is to recover an oldie, but goodie—our flip magazine. Modern Day Appalachian Woman Magazine still shines with support; therefore we may bring it back to our readers, but stronger, with a bolder online presence. We are also seeking members to bring back our informal board group for the magazine. In the past, this was very successful and we hope to continue this tradition. Spaces are limited. If you would like to be a part of this, please email communications@jancarolpublishing.com. Plans are that we meet once a month—virtually, for now—and with your ideas, suggestions, comments, and offered wisdom for the magazine, you can be a part of the first regional women’s magazine’s growth and continuation! Email today for more information and how you can be recognized as a contributor and serve as a board counselor for Voice Magazine for Women.

As any small business, we need your local support. As we regroup, redirect, and recover, we need your help and financial support.

Let’s work together and make the year 2021 the best ever!

A BIG Thank you goes to all of you!

We could not be here with you! So, as we say goodbye to 2020—we welcome 2021!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all! Stay safe and healthy! And may God bless all of you!

Verse of the Month: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:11 KJV Thought of the month: “I don’t know exactly what the future holds. But I am stepping forward with GRIT anchored in GRACE.” —Author Julie Graham, The Grit and Grace Project

Unique Ways to Celebrate New Year’s Eve

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uch of the world is no doubt ready to put 2020 in its rearview mirror, but New Year’s Eve celebrations will almost certainly have to be scaled back this year. Raucous parties might not be on the docket this December 31, but that does not mean people cannot still celebrate the end of what’s proven to be a very challenging year.

Don’t wait until midnight. Many people love to be around friends and family as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that the COVID-19 virus spreads more easily indoors than outdoors. So gathering around the television to watch the ball drop in Times Square as you count down to the new year may put celebrants’ health in jeopardy. If you want to gather with loved ones, do so earlier in the day and gather outdoors when the weather figures to be much warmer than it will be at midnight. A champagne toast around a backyard firepit can serve as a stand-in for midnight toasts.

• Hit the road. Travel restrictions may dictate where people can safely celebrate New Year’s Eve, but if large gatherings with friends are prohibited this year, families can plan getaways. New Year’s Eve is on a Thursday this year, and many offices will be closed on the following Friday in observance of the New Year’s Day holiday. That makes it an ideal weekend to get out of town. Many vacation rental services like VRBO and Airbnb have introduced guidelines to address health and safety concerns prospective travelers may have.

Before booking a getaway, contact hosts to determine what they’re doing to make their rentals safe for renters.

• Celebrate over and over again. One unique way to see 2020 to the door and usher in 2021 is to celebrate

throughout the day and night as various areas of the world officially close the book on 2020. The Pacific island nations of Tonga, Samoa and Kiribati are the first countries to ring in the new year, and they will do so at what will be 5:00 a.m. on December 31 in New York. Many countries across the globe ring in the New Year before residents of North America, so North Americans can make a day of sending 2020 into the history books and celebrate each time a new country reaches 2021.

New Year’s celebrations figure to be different as the world ushers in 2021. But there are many unique ways to celebrate that can make New Year’s Eve just as fun as it’s always been.

Storing and Serving Champagne No New Year’s Eve celebration would be complete without a champagne toast to ring in the new year. Champagne is a vital component of many special occasions, such as anniversaries, retirement parties, and weddings.

Champagne is a sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France, though the term “champagne” is often mistakenly used in reference to any type of bubbly.

Champagne is a wine and, like merlot or pinot grigio, it has specific storage and serving temperatures to ensure top flavor. In wine, temperature affects alcohol, acid, and aromatics. ThermoWorks suggests a temperature of 45 F for champagne.

In addition to controlling temperature, there are other ways to help ensure champagne reaches the palate in optimal fashion.

Bottles of champagne should be stored horizontally in a well-chilled environment. They should be kept away from bright or artificial light. Chilling also will help reduce the “pop” and overflow of the bubbly. If you purchase champagne and need to chill it for serving, you can achieve this by either chilling it in the fridge for three hours before serving, or in a Champagne bucket in a mixture of ice and water for 30 minutes.

When the champagne is opened, Daniel Brennan, PR and communications director at Champagne Laurent-Perrier, advises taking your time pouring a little champagne into each glass to allow the bubbles to settle. Then return to the first glass to pour more, helping to make the champagne less likely to froth.

Do not tilt the glass like pouring a beer, rather pour the champagne gently down the inside of the glass.

It’s ideal to drink all of the champagne in a bottle, as it will begin to lose its fizz immediately after opening, yet that isn’t always possible. A specialized champagne stopper will help keep the champagne fresh for up to two days after opening. After the bottle has been opened, refrigerate it.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2020 | 13

Keep Making Art: A Message from Artist Laken Bridges

By Anna Buchanan Curator of Contemporary Fine Art and Craft

L

ocally revered artist and educator Laken Bridges originally hails from Fresno, California, but do not let her western roots fool you; she grew up in Appalachia and is as much a part of the mountains as the dogwood trees that embellish the landscape. Prior to being a Director of Higher Education, Bridges was a full time adjunct instructor teaching undergraduate art courses at East Tennessee State University (ETSU) and Appalachian State University. She received her undergraduate training from ETSU and her Master of Fine Arts degree from Clemson University.

Bridges grew up working with her hands. It is a skill that flows through her veins and caresses her soul with memories of workshops and earth-worn jeans. One story in particular echoes the values of Bridges life and work. Bridges explains, “In the late 40’s and early 50’s there’s this pipe-fitter named Frank, and he has had a long day at work. He’s covered in mud and he’s in his work clothes. He jumps in his truck and goes to the local dealership; he decides that it’s time for a new car. He pulls up to the dealership, gets out, and...he starts looking at a sedan, I think. Frank goes to speak to the car salesman and before he can really say anything, the car salesman walks up, looks him up and down, and basically says, ‘I’m really busy today. I’ve got a lot of things to finish up before the end of the day. I don’t have time for you. You’re going to have to go look somewhere else because I’ve got paying customers here.’ So Frank doesn’t say anything and leaves. He gets in his work truck and goes down the road. The next day, the car salesman is in his office and he sees this really sleek, modern sedan roll into the lot and he thinks, ‘Oh man! I’m about to make a great sale!’ So he runs outside to meet this customer and it’s Frank. Frank the pipe-fitter says, ‘Hey remember me?’ and flashes the paidfor-in-cash receipt, and gives the car salesman a hard time for judging him based on his looks and based on his perceived profession...Frank is my grandfather and I grew up hearing that story and knowing that story for a long time. I come from that whole blue collar, working class type of family.”

The concept of Bridges’ art revolves around the working class, but the breadth of her content does not stop there.

“The content for me is the intersection between class, specifi-

14 | December 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

Economy Model: User Friendly, Lithograph on pages from a book on management tactics, 42x52in, 2014. cally the working class, the working poor, labor and gender…”

Bridges says, “I mean the general concept of making work about labor and using these objects is two-fold. It’s bringing awareness through the scale [of the work] and the combination with text and images. I’m trying to invite a conversation...Art makes you think. Any kind of art makes you think, whether you’re thinking about process, or the history of how it was made. Good art makes you think differently, and great art changes your mind...I do believe that bringing an artist into some sort of socially engaged process—bringing in that kind of creative thinking-—does have the possibility to affect change or continued on next page

affect opinions….Conceptually, I think tandem with thousands of pounds of [my art] is just going to get more and pressure. “What I love about printmakmore political...The longer I have made ing is that it’s like a marriage between work, I think the less directly about me drawing and sculpture.” Bridges says, “I it has been. The work I’m doing and the love to see how...printmaking can have work that’s in the show, it is still me, it’s such a beautiful painterly quality, or it still the people I care about, the people can be very graphic, or it can be strictly I’m related to, the people I’ve inter- drawing, or it can turn into something acted with. It still affects me on a per- more sculptural than anything else.” sonal level...but the more I make work An artistic career has its share the more interested in other people’s of ups and downs. Oftentimes, we stories I get. SoCITRASOLV I think it’s going ART to be harbor preconceived notions ofABSTRACT what SHADOW BOXES a lot more political as I move forward.” it means to be an artist.

Bridges utiAugust 13 –14, 2020 August 27, 2020 Bridges is a printmaker; printmak- lizes her success to make a point to up ers often use a printing press to give and coming artists when she explains, life to their imagery. The printing press “I think it’s important to know—if there carries with it a rich history filled with are local students reading this article, one’s freedom of speech, freedom of the or aspiring artists, or emerging artists— press, mass production, and spreading just because someone is showing in Protect, Graphite, ink, and grommets the word, but the printing press is also a museum, it doesn’t mean that they on drop cloth, 60x84in, 2014.

Experiment with a precision Citrasolvofworkshop about the careful the artist. using havechance their lifeand together, orParticipants that they’re will be taken on a short journey of the A creation very wise professor once told me, abstraction.

Using a unique process with orange oil senses to inspire the of an abstract paper Images that have been carved, cut, and making tons of work consistently.

“Just keep making Morewith often (Citrasolv Cleaner), shadow box. Explore line, color,work.” and shape collaged by human hands,transform work in ordinary Everybody goes through phases where than not, the creations that we think magazine pages into rich, textural images. and frosted papers to make a unique piece. they decorative just don’t make work, or where they are so terrible are our greatest stepping make terrible work, stones that springboard us into our best So save those so-called “terrible” and it’s not linear, ideas.

WOODCUT PRINTMAKING WRECK ART sketches, rework those old paintings, it’s cyclical. I had a Tuesdays in August August 29 – 30, 2020 solo show that was chisel away at that half carved sculpture, great a year ago, and print more of those two year old woodthen I made nothing cuts! Your greatest mistake might just for 8 months. To lead to your greatest success.

You can see the work of Laken remind all you Bridges in the exhibition Transforming people reading: if you’re going through Politics: Art Made by Women, on view at class the William King Museum of Art a dry spell, wait. Art Learn the basics of woodcut relief printmaking, Thisjust Wreck focuses on creation through Abingdon,Students Virginia in United [art]andinalteration. a fine art reproductive process that allows you to create a Keep making destruction willThe receive a Company Contemporary Regional evenfinished if it’s allartwork terri- sourced from thrift stores, attics, waste series of original prints. Students will learn carving Gallery, from August throughto techniques on birch or pine plank to create an original ble; it’s bins,okay, etc. you’ll Students will be guided through20questions December 27, 2020. work through image for print. considerit!”about the artwork and how new life can be

Opportunities to Learn

Olympia, Wood lithography and mixed media on satin, 60x66in, 2014.

breathed into the piece.

www.williamkingmuseum.org voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2020 | 15

Venice, Italy Queen of the Adriatic Sea

Article and Photographs

day. In 2019 almost 36 million tourists visited the city. There are insufficient hotel rooms for that many travelers, so most people stay on cruise ships or on the mainland. Our introduction to Venice began with a gondola trip through some enice is located in northeastern Italy of the smaller canals and then out into the Grand Canal. on the Adriatic Sea. This region was We were fortunate when we visited that there were no cruise inhabited by the ancient Veneti people ships docked there which would have blocked our view of the around the 10th century BC. The city is built beautiful buildings along the Grand Canal. Venice was not in the Venetian lagoon on 118 islands sepadamaged during World War II, so the original buildings are rated by canals with over 400 bridges linking them together. The city-state of Venice is considered to be intact. In the canals there is heavy boat traffic as everything that arrives in Venice, arrives by water. There are no the first international financial center beginning in the vehicles there. The gondoliers not only oared 9th century. This has made Venice a wealthy city the boats through the canals but pushed off throughout most of its history. The first Doge, buildings with their legs to maneuver in translates to Duke, was elected in 697. The some of the very tight places. Gondocity acquired the relics of St. Mark the liers are multi-talented, they not only Evangelist from Alexandria, Egypt in navigate the gondola through the 826 and placed them in the new basilcanals and narrate some of the more ica. Winged lions, the symbol of St. interesting sights, but some have Mark, are seen throughout Venice. wonderful voices that serenaded us We arrived by a water taxi known with beautiful Italian songs. On one as a vaporetti, which we boarded near of the small bridges we passed under the train station. It took us on the a small bridal party was standing on Grand Canal to the San Marco Piazza (St. the bridge watching us take photos of the Mark Square), where we walked through happy couple. the square and down several side streets to our Murano glass hotel. Venice is very crowded, especially during the continued on next page paperweight

By Nancy Binder

V

St. Mark’s Basilica 16 | December 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

On the Grand Canal

We toured St. Mark’s Basilica. The first church was built in 828. It later burned down, was rebuilt, and during a rebellion in 976 it burned again. It was restored in 978. Beginning in 1063 the current basilica was built with additions in 1093, 1102 and 1117, expanding the basilica in all directions. The architecture is Italo-Byzantine with polychrome marble covering the walls. The interior dazzles the eye with gold ground mosaics on the ceilings and upper walls. The floors have incredible mosaic designs.

The interior lower walls are marble with the lesser pulpit decorated in a deep red marble from Egypt. It is a spectacular church. After the church tour, we viewed the campanile (bell tower) and the clocktower before touring the Doge’s Palace.

The main floor of the palace is up a very long staircase of more than 100 steps. Each landing and staircase became more extravagant with paintings and gilding as we ascended. This was to impress visitors with how wealthy the Doge was. During the tour we walked through the Bridge of Sighs to the prison where Casanova had been jailed and later escaped.

The Bridge of Sighs was used to move prisoners from the prison to the interrogation rooms in the Doge’s Palace.

Venice is known for their fine glass making. The glass furnaces were moved to Murano Island in 1291 as a precaution against fires. We viewed a demonstration of glass blowing and later viewed many beautiful items in the store. As a souvenir, I bought a Murano glass paperweight with dolphins swimming inside it.

Many islands have a specific purpose such as Murano for glass furnaces. There is an airport island, a cemetery island where boat hearses take the deceased to be buried, a garden island, an

St. Mark Clocktower

Burano Island arsenal island and many others. We took a 45 minute boat trip to Burano Island. Burano was founded in the 5th century by refugees fleeing from Attila. It is known for its houses that are painted in vivid colors of red, pink, fuchsia, purple, blue, yellow, orange, brown, green and white. It is also one of the last surviving places where lace is handmade. In the 16th century lacemaking gradually died out. In 1872 a lacemaking school was founded and the craft has continued. Being on Burano without the crowds was a relief from the Venice throngs. The canals had boats tied to docks but few were moving. Ladies were hanging laundry from second floor windows while we strolled along enjoying watching daily life. We had a relaxing lunch of fried shrimp and calamari appetizer, fish lasagna, risotto with shrimp, a salad, and a delicious white fish. For dessert amaretto with coffee, an S shaped biscuit called Bussolari that you dip into white wine, and fresh fruit was served. We were reluctant to return to busy Venice.

In the evening I walked to St. Mark’s Square in hopes of taking some evening photos of the Grand Canal, but it was not to be. High tide had come in and flooded the square with more than 6” of water. The orchestra was still playing at one of the outdoor restaurants where the seating was on platforms and some intrepid diners had removed their footwear and rolled up their pant legs to get to their tables where they enjoyed watching the twinkling lights reflected on the flooded square.

For an interesting and informative non-fiction book about Venice, I suggest The City of Falling Angels by John Berendt.

{

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 | December 2020 | 17

NEW RELEASES

“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.

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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.

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THE END OF REASON

Carla: The End of Reason

PRAISE FOR

Written by Michael Gryboski Carla had been on the fringes before. She was once a 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.”

Written by Nikki Burdine and Miles Burdine Illustrated by Teresa Wilkerson Everyday lessons can be learned in the most unexpected ways, like Nikki Burdine from a dog. Love fiercely, loyally, and unconditionally.

Maintain a positive Miles Burdine attitude and soak up all life has to offer.

Those are just some of the lessons our family learned from Grunt, the yellow lab. We hope you and your family agree and remember to Live Like Grunt.

Everyday lessons can be learned in the most unexpected ways, like from a dog.

Love fiercely, loyally, and unconditionally.

Maintain a positive attitude and soak up all life has to offer. Those are just some of the lessons our family learned from Grunt, the yellow lab. We hope you and your family agree and remember to Live Like Grunt.

Live Like Grunt Written by Nikki Burdine and Miles Burdine

is a mom, wife, and television news anchor in Nashville, TN. Nikki is an Emmy and Associated Press award-winning journalist. She loves reading books to her daughter, Andi, which is what inspired this book. She can be reached via her website, NikkiBurdine.com or on Instagram and Facebook, NikkiBurdine.

is a husband, a father to three girls and grandfather to two girls.

He is a retired USMC Colonel who has served 30 years in the Marine Corps. He is also the CEO of the Kingsport Area Chamber of Commerce in Kingsport, TN.

COPYRIGHT © NIKKI BURDINE AND MILES BURDINE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. WWW.JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

Carla

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.

Live Like Grunt Live Like Grunt

Illustrated by

Teresa Wilkerson

THE

END OF

REASON

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Michael Gryboski

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COPYRIGHT 2020 COVER DESIGN TARA SIZEMORE JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

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Howery

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a Hudson oagland

BOOK 2

OPYRIGHT 2020 OVER DESIGN: TARA SIZEMORE OVER PHOTO: © PSYCHOSHADOW / ADOBE STOCK N-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC NCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

B

ack from their mission as the Bad Love Tigers to secure the secrets of Area 51 and the White Hole Project, the Bad Love Gang are summoned to the Oval Office by President Gerald Ford. They receive his blessing to use the White Hole Project to attempt intergalactic space travel in search of the cure for Hannah Lieb’s breast cancer. But Ford warns them that their arch-enemy, Russian KGB super-agent Borya Krovopuskov, remains at large and a constant threat.

Fighting off the KGB and Krovopuskov, the group sets a trap for him as they plan to return to Area 51 in 1942 using the White Hole. They reconnect with their alien friend, Blue Nova One, on Earth’s sister planet, Azur, 11.5 billion light years away. The Blue Azurians are facing a dire shortage of blue exotic matter and the Republic of Azur is facing a volcanic extinction event of historic proportions. The Bad Love Gang must deal with dinosaurs, the forces of nature, the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle, and alien politics in their race to get the cure for Hannah. Can they do it?

A Collection of Short Stories, Book 2

Written by Various Authors These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories KEVIN L . SCHEWE, 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!

MD, FACRO,

is a resident of Denver, Colorado. He is a board-certified cancer specialist who has been in the private practice of radiation oncology for 33 years. He is an entrepreneur, having founded Elite Therapeutics and Bad Love Cosmetics Company, LLC. He serves as Chairman of the Board of a microcap, renewable, green-energy and animal feed company called VIASPACE, Inc. Bad Love Beyond is his third novel and the sequel to his second novel, the Amazon top bestselling Bad Love Tigers.

These Haunted Hills A COLLECTION OF SHORT STORIES BOOK 2

COPYRIGHT 2020 AUTHOR PHOTO COURTESY OF: THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF WORLD WAR II AVIATION, COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

KEVIN L . SCHEWE, MD, FACRO

AUTHORS:

A. Holmes

A COLLECTION OF SHORT STORIES

G

na Holstein

These Haunted Hills:

THESE HAUNTED HILLS

on of Short Stories Book 2 follows the d Hills Book 1 with its new collection eaders’ curiosity of the supernatural. a backdrop, each story brings fictional ng moments of mystery, humor, and eart. A group of talented authors has ead in a non-cookie cutter, invigoratoy! Each story brings its own intriguing ment and thoughtfulness.

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BAD LOVE BEYOND

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THE BAD LOVE SERIES BOOK 3

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The Bad Love Series Book 3 Written by Kevin L. Schewe, MD, FACRO In a race against time and space to rescue Hannah Lieb from the ravages of metastatic breast cancer, Bubble Butt and the Bad Love Gang must find a way to get to their new alien friend, Blue Nova One, hoping that she and her advanced civilization will have a cure for Hannah.

Time and space travel are inexorably intertwined as the future, the mid-1970s, the WWII-1940s, and the best recorded music in the history of the universe continue to collide with each other in dramatic fashion!

Monkey’s New Friend

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.

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Michelle Meets Her Match

“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!”

Written by Hunter D. Darden Pete’s world is sad and lonely. Not only does he not like Pete’s world is sad and lonely.

Not only does he anything about himself, but he doesn’t fit in with the other kids.

It isn’t until Pete’s misfit guardian angel, T. J., teaches him the art of loving himself that Pete becomes happy and fulfilled. not like anything about himself, but he doesn’t D. Darden fit in with the other kids. ItHunter isn’t until Pete’s misfit guardian angel, T. J., teaches him the art of loving himself that Pete becomes happy and fulfilled.

—Elizabeth David, M.D. Board Certified Psychiatrist

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.

COPYRIGHT © HUNTER D. DARDEN ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED 1998 SECOND EDITION PUBLISHED SEPTEMBER 2020 JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. WWW.JANCAROLPUBLISHING.COM

Written by

Illustrated by

Hunter D. Darden

Sally Vacca

18 | December 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

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.

BRISTOL WHERE IT ALL BEGAN.

Ask the Book Editor Judi Light Hopson

Q: Dear Judi: I am writing a biography of a semi-famous stage actor who died in the seventies. He also worked in film production in Hollywood. The information for the book, which is fascinating, is largely coming from the actor’s descendants (who live in my region). My problem? One granddaughter wants to edit the book. —Margaret G., Birmingham, AL

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This Month’s Featured Books

Hunter D. Darden

Kim Rohrer

Wayne A. Major and Ralphine Major

Victoria Fletcher

Piddle Diddle is a Penguin for every child reader. Piddle Diddle will hold the attention of a child with her mischievous and adventurous actions. Despite her small size, she can be an example to children. Size is an obstacle only if you let it be. Piddle Diddle entertains and engages the child reader with beautiful illustrations.

A delightful fun story of a little girl and her beloved Basset Hound brought to life by charming illustrations. Beautifully illustrated and any child will love this adventurous story of a Basset hound dog and growing up in a dog loving family.

Books Make Great Gifts for Kids!

Author Hunter Darden enlightens children with a ‘real’ life story in the children’s book, The Everlasting Snowman. Through beautiful illustrations, Hunter simplifies how in life there is a beginning, an ending, and a renewal of living. What a treasure for parents wishing to demonstrate to their children that living goes on after a loss in our lives. Colorful, joyful, and positive!

Author Kim Rohrer is back to deliver the fourth book in her children’s series featuring everybody’s favorite monkey, Little Dooey! Young readers have followed the escapades of the adventurous little monkey in The Kite, The Doctor, and The Surprise.

Now he’s back again, and this time he visits Santa to tell him he wants to be his helper and help make children happy this Christmas.

Santa’s Helper.

Butterscotch and Chocolate Fudge

by Claudia Ware Children will adore these two sassy cats with their very different personalities. Butterscotch and Chocolate Fudge use their time together to learn to accept their differences and become caring friends. Here is a universal lesson for us all to ponder.

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

Voicemail

Male

By Ken Heath

That Time Again

I

t’s that time. I’d turned 55 in August, but years before, I had my first colonoscopy because of my dad. He had a history of polyps, and by the Grace of God, survived some pretty serious issues because of the scope.

My first colonoscopy was in 2006, when I was 44. I remember it was in September. Not because I have that great of a memory, but because my angel does. Anna Nicole Smith had just had her daughter, and the disputed paternity was all over the news. Somehow, under the anesthesia, the news must have warped the record inside my head. As they finished the procedure and rolled me into to the recovery room, I was in Zonky Land. I was out of it, but still able to talk. That ain’t good. It seems, according to all accounts, I was emphatic in making my arguments on how I was not, nor could I be, the father of Anna Nicole’s baby. I’m not sure what evidence I presented, but it’s enough to know I get frostbite any time Anna Nicole, paternity tests, or colonoscopy is mentioned at The Cliffside. I felt like The Manchurian Candidate—loaded like a goat with psychotropic drugs and truth serum—kind of like when I get into the Jack Daniels on a winter night, when I’m talking with my ancestors and singing off key bluegrass gospel in the backyard that has every dog in the holler bellowing and baying like it’s a full moon. I don’t know what I said or why I said it. You can’t defend what you don’t know. So, I avoid every one of those topics as much as I can. Until now.

Last time was better. The anesthesia was different, so as I came around, I was talking the nursing staff into opening a bowling alley/

Golden Corral to make people quit fussing. My angel came around the corner of the curtain just in the nick of time to get me to hush, since I was drawing a crowd like Colonel Harvey and his magical elixir on the streets of Mayberry.

One time, my scope was right after Thanksgiving. An unfortunate young man had gotten part of a turkey bone hung up in his windpipe, unable to speak. His dad was making small talk, and I’ve never met a stranger. After the pleasantries, he told me of his son’s malady, and asked what I was in for. I didn’t want to go into details.

I knew the Anna Nicole story would get me a dose of pre-anesthesia from my angel’s pocketbook upside my noggin. So I just looked him in the eye and told him “Mister, let’s put it this way. Let’s hope your son goes first, especially if they use the same camera.”

Back to the last checkup. My angel mixed the potion, laid out the chicken bouillon cubes and assorted “Hiney Dynamite” that was the day’s menu. But as luck would have it, she left me with a roll of TP with less than one sheet gorilla-glued to the paper tube. The backup rolls? No, not in the bathroom pantry.

Not under the sink. On the steps leading to the attic! Why in the world? It was like an Easter egg hunt, but thank goodness, I found the hidden treasure trove before I needed it.

Yeah, that might have been an oversight. But I’m betting Anna Nicole has resurfaced. Women never forget.

{

Ken Heath is a Marion, VA hometown boy who expresses his passions in his writings and through music. After his ‘real job’, Ken is owner of the legendary Cliffside Roadhouse, doggie dad to Miss Reagan and their rescue Scottie the Wonder Dog with his wonderful wife, and a professional mobile DJ with Bow Tie Pro Music and Sound. Follow him on Facebook and on Twitter at #kenheath.

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423.262.0444 voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2020 | 21

Authentic Christianity

By Jim Burns

“So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.” 1 Thessalonians 2:8 KJV Interpretation: “We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us.”

B

e authentic. Be yourself. There is no greater witness than a person who is open and vulnerable about his love for God and his struggles. I don’t know about you, but I can’t relate to perfect people. Yet there are loads of Christians running around today who want you to think they are perfect. People who act like they don’t have problems are one of the major stumbling blocks to their friends and family becoming Christians. I like the bumper sticker that says, “Christians aren’t perfect— they’re just forgiven.”

I think the old Skin Horse gave the Velveteen Rabbit some outstanding advice about being an authentic person. Maybe this advice is good for you, as well.

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.

The Skin Horse had lived longer in the nursery than any of the others. He was so old that his brown coat was bald in patches and showed the seams underneath, and most of the hairs on his tail had been pulled out to string bead necklaces. He was wise, for he had seen a long succession of mechanical toys arrive to boast and swagger, and by-and-by break their mainsprings and pass away, and he knew that they were only toys, and would never turn into anything else. For nursery magic is very strange and wonderful, and only those playthings that are old and wise and experienced like the Skin Horse understand all about it.

“What is REAL?” asked the Velveteen Rabbit one day, when they were lying side by side near the nursery fender, before Nana came to tidy the room. “Does it mean having things that buzz inside you and a stick-out handle?”

“Real isn’t how you are made,” said the Skin Horse.

“It’s a thing that happens to you. When a child loves you for a long, long time, not just to play with, but REALLY loves you, then you become real.”

“Does it hurt?” asked the Rabbit.

“Sometimes,” said the Skin Horse, for he was always truthful. “When you are real you don’t mind being hurt.”

“Does it happen all at once, like being wound up,” he asked, “or bit by bit?”

“It doesn’t happen all at once,” said the Skin Horse.

“You become. It takes a long time. That’s why it doesn’t often happen to toys who break easily, or have sharp edges, or who have to be carefully kept. Generally, by the time you are real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don’t matter at all, because once you are real you can’t be ugly, except to people who don’t understand.” Source: www.homeword.com

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Reflect on What Matters the Most

By Katina Rose

T

hanksgiving is recently behind us and Christmas is nipping at our nose. This time of the year can be all hustle and bustle, so it’s nice to slow down the mind and take some time to reflect on what matters the most.

I recently had surgery and was forced to stop and rest while gaining my strength to get back on my feet again. During this time, I had the opportunity to reflect and appreciate the compassion of others and in addition, think about how I can pay that forward.

First, the sweet assistance and encouragement from my family and friends was inspiring. I don’t know what I would have done without their kindness. My mom stayed with me for a week to take care of everything at my house. She even pulled out all my decorations to start the Christmas cheer by putting up my Christmas tree and completely decorated my house inside and out.

Friends and family came by to visit, I had food and flowers delivered, and received cards and text messages to let me know I was on their mind and I was covered in prayer.

I had a few weeks to be still and that has it’s pros and cons. During this time though, I realized God walked before me, as He does for everyone, because He knew all along what I would face in my future and certain things were put in place. When I felt discouraged or weak, I would have a friend text or call me at that moment to check in or send an uplifting word. It was a reminder of something I truly believe, God places someone on your heart right when they need to hear from you the most.

Not only was I touched by their kindness and compassion, I also used it as a reminder. It prompts me to reach out to someone who, during this Christmas season, could use a light of hope. It’s so easy to get caught up in the busy days and responsibilities that we may overlook the ones who feel a little lost in the shuffle.

Remember to be grateful for your health, days when you feel unbeatable, the feeling of sunshine on your face, and especially remember, that God has a beautiful plan for all of us.

I hold onto that promise, particularly on days when it all feels overwhelming. I remind you, as friends remind me, give yourself from grace on the hard days. Turn on your Christmas lights as a reminder that the darkness cannot overcome the light.

Finally, I wish your heart peace within any situation, contentment in the small things and the act of spreading joy wherever your steps may take you this Christmas.

{

Katina Rose is a mother and a fan of traveling, food, fitness, and good books.

Rose lives by faith, hope, and prayer. She is the Program Development and Tech Manager at Upper East Tennessee Human Development Agency. Contact her at katinarose71@gmail.com.

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Expanding Low-Dose Ct Lung Cancer Screening Eligibility Improves Early-Stage Cancer Detection

By Brenna Robinson Outreach & Engagement Specialist for UVA Cancer Center

L

ow-Dose CT lung cancer screening could save more lives soon. Updated guidelines that will increase lung cancer screening eligibility with low-dose CT of the chest have recently been proposed by the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF). According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in men and women. It is the leading cause of cancer-related death above breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers combined in part because of late disease symptoms.

Aimee Strong, nurse practitioner and program coordinator for the University of Virginia Lung Cancer Screening Program, says lung cancer can be deadly due to vague early symptoms. “People often ignore symptoms until they are sick enough to go to the doctor. Unfortunately, by the time they are diagnosed, the cancer can be more advanced and harder to treat.”

The proposed recommendations expand low-dose CT age eligibility from 55 to 50 years in people who smoke and reduce smoking pack-year eligibility from 30 to 20 years.

A pack-year is calculated by multiplying the number of packs of cigarettes smoked per day by the number of years a person has smoked. Research shows the new guidelines could decrease lung cancer death and increase life-years.

“Lung cancer screening is so important. We screen for lung cancer before patients develop any symptoms at all.

Screening can detect early-stage lung cancer 85% of the time, and these Stage I cancers are up to 90% curable with surgery,” Strong said.

A low-dose CT scan is a non-invasive, painless radiology procedure using a small amount of radiation to look for lung nodules that may represent lung cancer. During the scan, you lie on a table while a CT machine uses a low dose of radiation to make your lungs’ images. The National Lung Screening Trial found low-dose CT scans scored better than plain x-ray at finding early-stage lung cancer.

You may want to consider screening with low-dose computed tomography if you have smoked for many years or have a smoking history. Medicare and most insurances cover screening. Establishments providing low-dose CT scans for the Southwest Virginia region include most Ballad Health and Holston Medical Group locations. Talk to your doctor to determine if you are eligible and understand your lung cancer screening options.

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This article is from the Office of Community Outreach and Engagement for the University of Virginia Cancer Center. Aimee Strong leads outreach with the Cancer Center Without Walls Southwest Virginia Community Advisory Board in addressing cancer disparities and access to care in Appalachia. For more information, visit the Cancer Center Without Walls’ website: med.virginia. edu/ccww/community-advisory-boards-2/ community-advisory-boards/.

Healthy and Easy Resolutions E

ven with the best intentions, resolutions have historically proven hard to keep. Simplifying health-based resolutions can lead to a higher success rate and a healthier you.

• Walk more. Take stock of how many steps you currently take each day, and then resolve to walk 2,000 more. As your body acclimates to walking more, add another 2,000 steps.

• Learn something new about being healthy.

Informed health decisions require gaining a greater understanding of your body. Rely on a reputable source such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to learn more about how to be healthy.

• Spend less time on social media. Staring at your phone or tablet for multiple hours browsing tweets or checking messages might not be the best thing for your physical and mental health. According to Dr. Elia Abi-Jaoude, a staff psychiatrist at the Hospital for Sick Children and Toronto Western Hospital, various studies have shown how excessive social media usage can adversely affect relationships, sense of self, sleep, academic performance, and emotional well-being.

• Eat more whole foods. Whole foods, including vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish,

contain various nutrients the body needs to function at peak capacity. These foods may help reduce the risk of many diseases and help people maintain healthy body weights.

• Avoid sweetened beverages. A report published in 2006 in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, particularly carbonated soft drinks, may be a key contributor in the epidemic of overweight and obesity. Skip sweetened beverages (even fruit juices can be unhealthy if consumed in excess) and opt for more water or unsweetened teas.

• Find a physical activity you like. Rather than resolving to join the gym or signing up for a 5K because it’s what everyone is doing, find a physical activity you truly enjoy and aim to do it a few times a week. Maybe it’s a sport like tennis or recreational cycling with the family. But if the idea of a gym membership excites you, then by all means sign up.

Avoid restrictive health and wellness resolutions that can be unsustainable. By downsizing expectations and taking small steps en route to your goals, you may be more motivated to stay the course and realize your resolutions.

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muffin mixture. Mix until just blended. Don’t overmix.

3. Using a scoop, portion into greased or lined muffin pans.

Bake at 350 F for 24 minutes, or 17 to 20 minutes in a convection oven, until the tops are golden brown. ***

This recipe for “Spiced Yogurt Muffins,” courtesy of the National Dairy Council, Dannon and McCormick, can be made in advance and then enjoyed while peeking into Christmas stockings or watching holiday parades on television. This big-batch recipe is ideal for feeding a houseful of overnight holiday guests. Or it can be prepared in advance and doled out as needed throughout the week. The muffins also can be made as a treat for holiday office luncheons. Cut the recipe in half for smaller yields.

Spiced Yogurt Muffins Yield: 50 servings

6 1⁄2 cups Dannon plain fat-free Greek yogurt 4 cups water, room temperature 1 box (5 lbs) Gold Medal® Muffin Mix, Whole Grain Variety 3 tablespoons McCormick pumpkin pie spice 2 tablespoons McCormick Chipotle cinnamon 1. Combine yogurt and water in mixing bowl. Whisk until blended. Set aside.

2. Add spices to dry muffin mix in a large bowl. Add yogurt and water mixture to the 26 | December 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

1. Place the potatoes and onion into a bowl, and stir in eggs, salt and flour as needed to make the mixture hold together. With wet hands, scoop up about 1⁄3 cup of the mixture per patty, and form into flat round or oval shapes.

2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, and gently place the patties into the hot oil. Fry until the bottoms are golden brown and crisp, 5 to 8 minutes, then flip with a spatula and fry the other side until golden.

3. Line a colander or strainer with 2 paper towels, and drain the cooked latkes in the colander.

Serve hot. ***

Many potato pancake recipes are quite similar. They involve only a few ingredients and fry up in a flash.

Some chefs recommend draining the shredded potato prior to cooking so that the pancakes will fry up crispy and not be soggy or break apart.

Enjoy this recipe for “Latkes,” courtesy of AllRecipes.com.

Latkes

(Potato Pancakes) Serves 12 3 large potatoes, peeled and shredded 1 small onion, shredded 3 large eggs 1 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, or as needed 1⁄2 cup vegetable oil

Though it might not have as many devotees as holiday cookies, fruitcake is a must-have for many during the holiday season. This recipe for “Fruitcake” from Jeanne Sauvage’s Gluten-Free Baking For the Holidays can help holiday celebrants ensure the holiday tradition of baking fruitcake continues this holiday season.

Fruitcake

Serves 10 to 15 Macerated Fruit 2 1⁄2 pounds raisins, pitted prunes, pitted dates, and dried figs, finely chopped 1⁄2 cup candied orange and/or lemon peel, finely chopped 1⁄3 cup candied or dried cherries, finely chopped 2⁄3 cup candied or preserved ginger, finely chopped Grated zest and juice of 1 large lemon Grated zest and juice of 1 large orange 1 tablespoon orange or tangerine marmalade 1 tablespoon apricot jam 1 cup applesauce 2 tablespoons brandy, sweet sherry or apple juice 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature, plus more for greasing 3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground allspice 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 cup packed dark brown sugar 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 4 extra-large eggs, at room temperature 2 tablespoons brandy, rum, whiskey, sweet sherry, or apple juice, or as needed 1. The day before you bake the cake, prepare the macerated fruit. Place the raisins, prunes, dates, and figs in a large bowl. Add the citrus peel, cherries, ginger, lemon zest and juice, and orange zest and juice. Add the marmalade, jam, applesauce, and brandy and stir to combine.

Cover the bowl and let stand overnight at room temperature so that the fruits soak up the liquid and the flavors meld. The mixture can mac-

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

erate in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Preheat the oven to 325 F. If the fruit has been in the refrigerator, bring it to room temperature. Grease the bottom and sides of a 91⁄2- or 10-inch springform pan with butter.

Line the bottom with three layers of parchment paper and the sides with one layer of parchment. The batter will be very sticky.

In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and baking powder.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the brown sugar and beat for 1 minute. Reduce the speed to low, add the vanilla, and beat until combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition. Then beat for 1 minute longer. Add the flour mixture and beat until just combined. Add the macerated fruit and, with a large wooden spoon, combine with the batter. This requires a bit of strength. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan.

Bake for 2 hours, then reduce the oven temperature to 300 F and bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle of the cake comes out clean, about 2 hours. If the cake browns too quickly, you might want to tent it with aluminum foil for the last 2 hours so it doesn’t burn.

Remove the cake from the oven and, while it is still hot, pierce it all over with a skewer. Pour the brandy over the top. Place the pan on a

wire rack and let the cake cool completely.

7. Remove the sides from the pan and peel the parchment paper from the sides and bottom of the cake. Wrap the cake in waxed paper and place it in an airtight container or wrap it in a few layers of plastic wrap. Leave the cake at room temperature for 3 to 5 days to allow the flavors to meld. If you used alcohol, you may store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

8. Once the cake is sliced, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. ***

Quick Brandy Eggnog 1 cocktail

1 ounce brandy 1 1⁄4 ounces milk 1⁄2 ounce simple syrup 1 egg yolk (only use fresh eggs) Grated nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the brandy, milk, simple syrup, and egg yolk. Dry shake without ice.

2. Fill shaker with ice, then shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure the egg is well mixed.

Strain into an old-fashioned or cocktail glass. Add a dash of grated nutmeg or cinnamon as a garnish. Source: The Spruce: Eats

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2020 | 27

Symphony of the Mountains to Perform Virtually

T

he Symphony of the Mountains Brass Quintet and Mountain Strings performed live concerts in September and October for delighted masked and safely distanced audiences. With rising pandemic cases and a request from community leaders to pause live events, the orchestra management has chosen to present the annual Holiday Concert in a virtual live-stream. This will be the first such performance for the orchestra as Music Director Cornelia Laemmli Orth refuses to give up the beloved December tradition: “Never has the value of music been more apparent than amid the current pandemic. We are more aware of the relevance of making and hearing music now that opportunities to do so have been so drastically limited. We have taken the privilege of sharing live music with our fellow human beings for granted. The loss of many of these experiences shows us just how vital they are, and how

28 | December 2020 | voicemagazineforwomen.com

crucial music is for the well-being of the individual as well as the whole community.”

The free concert will be streamed on YouTube Saturday, December 5 at 4pm. The program will include Holiday favorites such as Corelli’s Christmas Concerto, Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Winter, “The Prayer,” “O Holy Night,” A Hanukkah Celebration, and several well-loved traditional Carols. Featured soloists are Sean Claire, SOTM’s concertmaster and Matthew Wilkinson, SOTM’s principal cellist. Even though there will be no live audience, the orchestra members will be masked and distanced to ensure their safety.

The YouTube link for the concert will be provided on the symphony web site approximately one week before the concert. For more information visit www. symphonyofthemountains.org or call the Symphony office at 423-392-8423.

voicemagazineforwomen.com | December 2020 | 29

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CLUES ACROSS

1. Opposite of west 5. __ Caesar, comedian 8. Helps little firms 11. A way to censor 13. Expresses atomic and molecular weights 14. Chalcedony 15. Type of sword 16. A corporation’s first offer to sell stock to the public 17. Attired 18. A sequence of winding turns 20. Pal 21. Expresses pleasure 22. Amendable 25. Clear 30. A way to cut off 31. Indigenous Thai person 32. Pale brownish yellow color 33. Aquatic plants genus 38. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

41. Merchants 43. Fix a chair 45. Throws into disorganization 48. Famed German composer 49. Keyboard key 50. Oral polio vaccine developer 55. Partner to pain 56. Where golfers start 57. Jenny __: weight loss program 59. Sailing dinghy 60. Suffix that forms adjectives 61. Speeds at which music is played 62. Body part 63. Fall back 64. Ancient Greek sophist

CLUES DOWN

1. One point south of due east 2. Wings 3. One point south of southeast 4. The shirts on our backs 5. One who works on the seas 6. Select jury 7. Small intestines parts 8. Plant of the heath family 9. Extrasolar planet 10. Creates more of 12. Before 14. Forms over a cut 19. Runs down 23. Exercise regimen __-bo 24. Unkeyed 25. Principle underlying the universe 26. Corpuscle count (abbr.)

27. Residue 28. Company that rings receipts 29. Rugged mountain range 34. Commercials 35. NY footballer 36. They __ 37. Soviet Socialist Republic 39. Poked holes in the ground 40. Pitchers 41. Your 42. Diana __, singer 44. Important document for inventors 45. Bangladesh capital 46. Fluid that flows in the veins of Greek gods 47. Famed daguerreotype photographer 48. Where military personnel work 51. Play a role 52. La __ Tar Pits, Hollywood 53. Unstressed-stressed 54. Type of palm tree 58. Judo garments

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