Voice Magazine for Women 0324

Speaks

The month of March means that spring season is just around the corner with weather changes and our time jumping forward an hour. This year, the month of March has given “change” a new meaning. It seems we are changing from the “COVID-19” awareness to the “flu” awareness. Each changing season brings a change in illnesses out there. Don’t throw away your masks; it could be a new “wearing a mask” season.

There is another change on the horizon. Jan-Carol Publishing will be changing locations. We are in the process of moving and relocating to back to Johnson City, Tenn. We have been welcomed into the Blountville, Tenn., community, but with our lease coming due, it has given us an opportunity to regroup, reconnect, and reconsider future options for the company. Stay tuned for details.

As we change location, Voice Magazine for Women and Jan-Carol Publishing are making changes online with our websites and social media. We are continuing to celebrate our 20th anniversary of Voice Magazine with giveaways, and the celebration will last all year long!

One way that we are celebrating 20 years of the magazine’s mission statement for women in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia is by publishing a book about local women! We are accepting submissions from 20 women and giving them the opportunity to share their stories of success. If you are a business owner or a career woman and want to share your journey in following your passion or your dream, and you want to inspire other women to do the same, now is an opportunity to share your story with the world. This book will be sold on Amazon and other online outlets. What a way to leave your legacy! For details and submission guidelines, visit our website, www.jancarolpublishing.com. This exciting book will give women in the Appalachian region a “VOICE” around the globe and show the world how the women here have contributed to the growth of our area. With the limit being only 20 women for this debut book, submit today!

Be sure to sign up for our newsletter, which promotes a “book of the month” at a discounted retail price. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and join the fun of the giveaways and other happenings. Email communications@jancarolpublishing.com to receive our newsletter.

You are missing out if you are not following our book blog, “Bookmarked,” and listening to our weekly podcast, also called “Bookmarked.” We are thrilled with the positive responses, and the podcast continues to grow with listeners! We thank you!

From all of us to all of you — HAPPY SPRING! Our Irish wish to you is that you find your “pot of gold” at the end of your rainbow.

Thought of the month: “Take one day at a time. Today, after all, is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.”

Verse of the Month: “Hope deferred makes the heart sick, But when the desire comes, it is a tree of life.” Proverbs 13:12 New King James Version (NKJV)

PUBLISHER

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc PO Box 701

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Janie C Jessee, 423.502.6246 publisher@jancarolpublishing.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Draco Bailey

Communications Director/Production Editor communications@jancarolpublishing.com

Allison Chudina

Editorial/Retail Assistant office@jancarolpublishing.com

GRAPHICS/PRODUCTION

Tara Sizemore

Senior Graphics Designer tara@voicemagazineforwomen.com graphics@jancarolpublishing.com

Office Phone/Fax: 423.926.9983

Books & Gifts: 423.212.0200

DISTRIBUTION

Karen Corder Staff

PUBLISHED BY JAN-CAROL PUBLISHING, INC. (Volume 21, Issue 3)

(Janie Jessee’s Photograph: Rebecca Griffin/London Vine Studios)

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. © 2024

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.

Janie

7 Ways to Celebrate

Women’s History Month

The month of March is notable for various reasons, not the least of which is it serves as Women’s History Month.

Although any time of year is an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of women and pay homage to those special women in one’s life, each March extra attention is given to the impact women make in their local communities and across the world.

According to the World Bank, as of 2022, 49.7 percent of the world was made up of women. Here are some ways to commemorate Women’s History Month this year.

1. Support women entrepreneurs. Make it a point to shop at stores owned and run by women, or purchase products that were developed by women.

2. Mentor young or adolescent girls. People can make a difference in the lives of young women and set them on the course for success by sharing their own experiences through mentored guidance.

3. Express personal gratitude. Send a thoughtful letter of gratitude to a woman who has made an impact on your life and explain how her influence helped you in some way.

4. Celebrate women artists and authors. Take the time to view and experience creative works by women, which may include reading books authored by women or viewing crafts and artwork made by women.

5. Start a business resource group. Woman entrepreneurs can encourage others to start their own businesses by hosting a business resource group that meets periodically and enables others to network easily.

6. Learn about women’s rights. Take a step back into history and read up on the journey to establish women’s rights, starting with the right to vote.

7. Post on social media. Share stories of inspirational women with others on a global scale by posting thoughts to various social media platforms.

Women’s History Month is a time to reinforce the accomplishments of women across the country and the world.

What Makes the YWCA Annual Prom Dress Sale So Special?

For more than a decade now, YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia has helped thousands of young ladies in our region have access to affordable formal wear for their prom night through the YWCA Prom Dress Project. Thanks to donations of like-new prom dresses by the surrounding community, the sale provides gowns in a variety of styles and sizes for only $25 a dress. Scholarships are also available if a greater discount is needed.

“It’s incredible to see year after year how well received this event is and what an impact it has in our community. From the young ladies that get a beautiful gown to the YWCA programs that benefit from the money raised, the project is just special all around,” said Karissa Skeens, Youth Programs & Events Project Manager of YWCA NETN and SWVA. “Plus, it’s a great way for people to get rid of formal gowns they’ve

been planning to get rid of for a while and feel good knowing they’re going for a great cause.”

Proceeds from the YWCA Prom Dress Sale benefit YWCA programs such as:

• TechGYRLS — an afterschool enrichment program for girls offering learning experiences focused on science, technology, education, art, and math while providing mentoring, homework assistance, community engagement and so much more.

• YW Affordable Childcare — a top-notch, sliding-scale fee program based on household income that allows hard-working parents to focus on building better futures for their children and themselves.

• Strive for Teens — a program providing financial literacy and workforce development education for ages 13–19 to break the cycles of chronic poverty, unemployment, and underemployment.

• MOMS R US — teen pregnancy and parenting support through education, resources, and encouragement to support their health, academic studies, and overall well-being.

YWCA Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia is on a mission and is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. With a goal of supporting family resiliency in our region, as well as fostering confident, successful, and healthy girls and women, the YWCA is part of an international movement serving over 2 million in the United States and 25 million worldwide. For more information about the Prom Dress Project or YWCA programming, please contact Karissa Skeens at YWCA NETN and SWVA at Kskeens@ ywcatnva.org. Learn about ways to get involved at www.ywcatnva.org

“Portraits in Sound” Concert will feature Edward Elgar’s “Enigma Variations,” comprising of fourteen theme variations in styles that reflect the character of some of his friends—but without naming them!

The first half of the concert features the winner of our Elizabeth Harper Vaughn Concerto Competition, Joshua Kováč of Johnson City playing the Dvorak “Concerto for Violoncello in B minor, Op. 104.”

This concert will be held Saturday, March 16 at 7:30 p.m. in the Concert Hall at the Martin Center for the Arts at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City.

Tickets are available through our website or the ETSU Martin

10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or by email at Tickets@ETSUMartinCenter.org. All

Joshua Kováč

KERRIE SLUDER: Sowing Seeds of Community

By Allison Chudina

For Kerrie Sluder, plants are a way to both reach and teach the community.

In fact, Kerrie, owner of the Terrarium Plant Store in downtown Johnson City, has made a career of reaching and teaching. She has taught students for 22 years now — the last 19 spent at Dobyns-Bennett High School in Kingsport, Tenn. She teaches Agriculture with a concentration in Plant Science, Greenhouse Management, and Landscape Management.

“I love being with my high school students, and many of them have helped me out at the store as well,” Kerrie said.

Kerrie’s dream of opening a plant store in Johnson City began during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which she realized she wanted to do something for her community. “There were so many unknowns during quarantine, but I decided that there was no time like the present,” she said.

The Terrarium Plant Store opened its doors in August of 2021 at 221 E. Main St., nestled downtown across from Gold Cross Tattoo Co.

It all began earlier that year when Kerrie reached out to Dianna Cantler, interim director of the Johnson City Development Authority (JCDA) at that time,

Kerrie says that her main goal with the Terrarium Plant Store has always been to provide a place not only to shop but also to have an experience — a place to “get your hands dirty and be able to relax for a little while.”

who put her in touch with representatives from the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce. Kerrie enrolled in the CO.STARTERS program, a threemonth, cohort-based program designed to give aspiring business owners the tools they need to open and operate a successful business. “I learned so much from the classes and even came away with some grant money to help me get started,” Kerrie said. “It was only the beginning.”

Kerrie says she was excited to start this new venture. Through the CO.STARTERS program, Kerrie met many people who helped her along her journey, including Shannon Castillo, affiliate broker for Mitch Cox Realtors. “With Shannon’s help, we were able to secure the perfect location on East Main Street,” Kerrie said. “I signed the lease just as school was about to start back for the fall semester of 2021, and I was scared to death! My boys started moving furniture that weekend, and just like that, we were open for business.”

Kerrie’s love of plants began at an early age. She doesn’t remember a time in her childhood when she wasn’t outside with her grandparents, working in the yard. “From following them around in the garden to planting annuals and bulbs in the flower beds, I had no choice but to inherit their green thumbs,” Kerrie said. “I remember the bubblegum smell of Grannie White’s dianthus in the spring and the spicy scent of the Bubby Bush blooms in summer. That may be where it started, actually.”

When asked how her love of plants and her love of teaching intersect, Kerrie said that “learning something

new every day” is a motto she learned from her father that she can take with her both in the classroom and in the plant store.

Many of Kerrie’s family members are involved in education in some way, but she didn’t realize she wanted to be a teacher until an Agriculture position became available at Science Hill High School, where her father taught. Kerrie graduated from the University of Tennessee with a degree in Landscape Design and Horticulture in 1999 but had never considered teaching as a career for herself until that job became available. She went on to teach at Science Hill for three years before transferring to Dobyns-Bennett in 2004.

“Imagine getting to do what you love every day and being able to share that and teach students about plants and how amazing they are,” Kerrie said. “It is the best of both worlds.” Kerrie added that another perk of working at Science Hill was getting to teach with her father for the last year of his career.

Fast forward to today, and you will likely find Kerrie busy at the store helping customers create terrariums, planning special events, or teaching a planting class.

Kerrie notes that her “fairy garden planting party” has quickly become a customer favorite, as well as plant propagation and Kokedama classes. “Another one of our favorite classes is our collaboration with Masterpiece Mixers Paint & Party, which varies each time we host. We have collaborated with the Watauga Brewing Company, Spring Street Sandwich Company, Gold Cross Tattoo Co., East Tennessee State University, and most recently with Wrecking Crew Harley-Davidson for a Valentine’s Day event.”

The Terrarium Plant Store also hosts birthday parties, bridal showers, and baby showers. “We are looking to expand into micro-weddings, offering a space to say your vows with your closest family and friends,” Kerrie shared. “We will see how that goes!”

Kerrie says that her main goal with the Terrarium Plant Store has always been to provide a place not only to shop but also to have an experience — a place to “get your hands dirty and be able to relax for a little while.”

“Our employees are our extended family, and our customers are great friends,” Kerrie said. “I hope that people take away good vibes from visiting us and some awesome plants, but most importantly, I hope they take away a sense of belonging and finding their people.”

Kerrie’s advice for other women looking to start their own business is to have a solid plan. “Do your research and find some great mentors,” Kerrie said. “It is a scary thing to do, especially for me, when I had only known one job for 20 years. Know your product, because your customers are looking to you for expertise, and you better not disappoint. If you don’t know, find employees who do, and appreciate them. I have been blessed to find amazing people who love plants as much as I do and who teach me new things all the time.”

Kerrie hopes to see herself transitioning out of the classroom and into the Terrarium Plant Store full-time within the next few years, possibly even at a second store location. “This is all still so surreal to us, and we are excited for what the future may bring,” she said.

Kerrie and her employees love their customers, and Kerrie says that “they are the only reason we are here.” To show appreciation, the Terrarium Plant Store likes to take photos of customers whenever they take a new plant home to share on social media, and Kerrie notes that maintaining a sense of community and a connection to her customers is very important.

“A customer may be buying their first plant or their 100 th , but we all share a passion for plants and a nurturing spirit,” Kerrie said. “Many people say they feel a different energy when they come into the store, and that is exactly what we want. We want our friends to feel welcomed and loved, and posting their pictures on our social media is just a small gesture of our appreciation! We are definitely a community of plant geeks, and we are proud of it.”

Photographs by Victoria Hensley/Johnson City Aerial Photography

The Terrarium Plant Store’s wonderful staff

Wild Mushrooms & Ramps

By April Hensley

In our area, I hear a lot about people wild foraging in the woods for mushrooms and ramps starting in the spring.

Morel mushrooms are a big draw but there are other edible ones as well. Chicken of the woods and chanterelle are also popular. Many of these mushrooms are very hard to find because they have been overharvested.

Ramps are a native plant that tastes like a cross between garlic and onions with a strong kick. It has a small bulbous root and green oval leaves. Both parts are edible. They are also getting scarcer but can be sustainably harvested.

I, myself, will leave foraging to the more experienced mushroom and ramp hunters because I’m not confident I won’t pick something non-edible. To me, several plants look a lot alike. I don’t trust my identification skills enough that I wouldn’t accidentally eat something that could be poisonous.

If you want to try wild mushrooms and ramps but don’t have the experience or knowledge yet to wild harvest, here are some ways you can still experience these delicious native foods.

After trying our hand at successfully growing mushrooms indoors, our next adventure is trying the outdoor kit. These kits include spores and must be grown on a log. As easy as the indoor kits are, the outdoor kit is more labor intensive. The outdoor kits produce a heavier harvest but take many months until they are ready.

• Buy mushrooms from the farmer’s market. There are vendors who actually farm and grow mushrooms to sell to restaurants and the public.

• Buy from an experienced forager. Ask around or watch for posts on social media. Foragers usually harvest responsibly.

• Grow mushrooms at home with an indoor growing kit. We did this on our countertop by the sink and it couldn’t be easier. The small box comes with everything you need. It will grow one small crop of mushrooms. These are a great start for beginners.

I purchased wild foraged ramps from a seller on social media. We ate some and the rest we planted in a shady area on a bank. This will be the third year they have been growing there, so we may harvest some leaves in the next couple of weeks while they get better established. Ramp seeds can be purchased. It takes around ten years until they are ready to harvest if planted by seed.

It’s A Classic!

Short and sweet film reviews of old, classic movies perfect for a girls’ night in!

By Allison Chudina

Happy Women’s History Month! In the spirit of feminist films, I just had to mention the 1950 classic, All About Eve , directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and starring the incomparable Bette Davis. In this drama/thriller, a seemingly timid but secretly ruthless ingénue, Eve Harrington, insinuates herself into the lives of an aging Broadway star (Davis) and her circle of theater friends. Margo Channing, the aging star who becomes the object of aspiring actress Eve’s obsession, quickly learns that Eve wants what she has

— her life, her career. Many films from the 1950s no longer hold up due to problematic themes, but All About Eve still feels radical. It tackles the theme of women being silenced and forced to listen to men regardless of their own talents and turns men into the punch line. The movie also gives its female characters importance, as well as idiosyncrasies. The women all have distinct, witty personalities, and for the year 1950, this was practically unheard of.

Wine Pairing:

I recommend watching All About Eve with a bold red wine, like a dark and fruity Cabernet Sauvignon. You’ll feel just as bold and daring as the groundbreaking female characters in Mankiewicz’s film.

Give Your Living Room a New Vibe

Aliving room can grow stale over time and often serves as a catch-all for clothing, blankets, gadgets, and other items. Upon recognizing a living room has seen better days, individuals may decide it’s time to give the space a new vibe. That transformation can start with these strategies.

Organize first

Clutter frequently is the culprit behind a living room that may not give off the vibe individuals desire. As families grow and people add belongings, space may be at a premium. Less is more has never been a more important concept. Remove extraneous items before purchasing new furniture or transitioning to a new design. You may even want to remove everything and start from scratch before reintroducing desirable elements to the space.

Seek the assistance of professionals

Some people are adept at decorating and designing spaces. But just as you wouldn’t perform your own medical procedures, you should leave jobs like interior design and renovations to the professionals. Hiring a professional interior designer and contractors can really bring a living room together in ways homeowners may have never imagined. These pros can build off of your ideas and truly create a space that may be worthy of a magazine spread.

Promote wellness

You may want to consider adding natural materials in the design to promote well-being. Eco-friendly furnishings, raw fibers, and organic textures will create an environment from sustainable choices. Plenty of plants also can create a welcoming

environment that helps you surround yourself with positive energy and the items you love.

Light it up

One of the easiest ways to transform a room’s vibe is to utilize lighting. Change draperies to allow more natural light to shine in. Consider additional windows or skylights if yours is a particularly dark home. If you desire to create a more vivid or cozy ambiance, use a combination of accent, task, and supplemental lighting in the space so there are no dim corners.

Create an industrial or urban vibe

Industrial-chic design celebrates the bones of a building. It’s what makes city lofts so appealing, with their exposed beams and brick. Even those who live in suburbia or out in the country can give a living room this look with subtle nods to the style. Unadorned windows, clean lines on furniture, oversized, gallery-style art, and metal accents can add touches of this popular look to your home.

Revamping a living room doesn’t have to be difficult. With an idea in place and some professional touches, an entirely new vibe can be achieved.

Voicemail Male

By Ken Heath

Warmer Weather on the Horizon

In like a lion. That’s the old adage for March. If the weather is rough at the beginning of the month, the end of the month should promise more pleasing temps. I, for one, am ready for the sunshine and warmer weather.

It seems like this winter just won’t go away. It hit us with the January snowstorm that dumped almost nine inches of the white stuff at our SWVA home, then teased us with spring-like sixties before jolting us back into winter

Eat Your Vegetables

By Kelly McFadden

Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, Than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. Proverbs 15:17 KJV

Interpretation:

Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred. Proverbs 15:17

As children, my sister and I were required to finish all the vegetables on our plate before we could have any dessert. I recall one night when my sister looked at our mom and, in a very matter-of-fact manner, stated that she would throw up if she had to have one bite of the string beans. Our mom insisted she have at least one bite or no dessert. Knowing ice cream was within reach, my sister held her nose and tried to force down a tiny bite of string beans. The moment she swallowed, true to her word, her entire meal

with a cycle of snow/ice, then a rollercoaster back to a taste of what’s to come, then back to the tundra again. This time last month, catchers and pitchers reported to spring camps, signaling the soon-to-be return of major league baseball, and as a die-hard Mets fan (and a long-suffering one at that), it’s part of the annual traditions for me that signal the changing of the seasons.

From autumn college football games to NFL played in the snow, it’s finally time to put away the hoodies and sweaters and replace them with jerseys. Time to swap my winter-weight wool suits for seersucker. Oh, I realize I look like a version of Matlock most summer days and will enjoy a hot dog at least once a week in ol’ Andy’s honor, but I’m hoping this year of all years, that the old adage holds true. I need that sunshine, that vitamin D, that crack of the bat, and those long summer evenings on the deck with the pups and my angel. I’m pulling against the lions this year and cheering on the lambs!

ended up back on the table–not a pleasant moment at our dinner table!

Proverbs 15:19 reads, “the path of the upright is a highway.” The path of a Christian does not always seem easy. There are times when Christians have to stomach unpleasant situations, people, or circumstances, but today’s Scripture assures us that this is better than the alternative. Compared to hatred, discord, envy, or greed, the path of a Christian is smooth with open road ahead. Compared to the temporary pleasures and a life that looks only to please oneself, the life of a Christian focuses on the long term and, in the end, the reward is greater.

A meal of vegetables is not always the most pleasant choice. But as we all have learned, it is in vegetables that we find essential nutrients for a well-balanced and healthy lifestyle. So while they are not always pleasant at the time, in the long term, vegetables are just what our body needs. The same is true with love. It is better to live a life built on the foundation of love, than to get carried away in the rocky roads of hatred.

My family still looks back on that meal and laughs until we cry. It has become one of our most endearing memories, not because of what my sister went through, but because we shared it with each other. www.homeword.com

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

St. Patrick’s Day Party Pointers

St. Patrick’s Day is a beloved holiday, and that popularity is reflected in celebrations that take place across the globe. According to World Population Review, more than 200 countries celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Russia, Singapore, and Japan are among the nations that celebrate St. Patrick’s Day each March, proving that proximity to Ireland is not a prerequisite for partying on March 17. With that in mind, anyone in the mood to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day need not hesitate to plan a party this March. The following St. Patrick’s Day party pointers can make the festivities even more fun this year.

• Go green. It goes without saying that green is the color of St. Patrick’s Day. St. Patrick is the primary patron saint of Ireland, a country known for its rolling green hills. Hosts can decorate party spaces in green, hanging green streamers and green balloons. Encourage guests to wear green and keep the theme going with the menu, serving green baked goods and beverages.

• Curate a St. Patrick’s Day playlist. In addition to its rolling green hills, Ireland is known for music. It’s hard to find a pub anywhere on the Emerald Isle without a local musician playing traditional Irish music for a captivated crowd. Hosts can keep that in mind when curating their St. Patrick’s Day playlist, which can include music from artists

and bands such as Finbar Furey, The Dubliners, The Clancy Brothers, The Chieftains, The Pogues, The High Kings, The Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly, and more.

• Serve traditional Irish fare. It might take some advanced planning and effort to provide a menu one might find in Ireland. Blood pudding is served in many pubs across the Emerald Isle, but it might be hard, though not necessarily impossible, to find outside the country. Some large chain grocery stores might carry blood pudding in March, and it might be possible to find it in specialty grocery stores around this time of year. Irish soda bread, bacon and cabbage, Irish stew, and boxty are some additional dishes to give a menu some traditional Irish flavor.

• Cut an Irish rug. Irish dancing is another of Ireland’s many exports, as dancers across the globe have embraced traditional Irish dance. Hosts can learn a dance or two and teach guests a few simple steps during the party. Keep it light and fun and allow even non-dancers to tap their toes.

These are just a few of the ways hosts can make their St. Patrick’s Day parties more fun this March.

Shortbread is commonly eaten in Ireland and in neighboring Scotland, where this recipe originated. For a tasty St. Patrick’s Day dessert, try this recipe for “Shortbread Dips” from “The Hebridean Baker” (Sourcebooks) by Coinneach MacLeod.

Shortbread Dips

Makes a dozen

10 1⁄2 ounces soft butter

4 1⁄2 ounces golden caster sugar

10 1⁄2 ounces plain flour [all-purpose]

1 3⁄4 ounces corn flour [cornstarch]

1⁄2 teaspoon fine sea salt

5 ounces dark chocolate

5 ounces white chocolate

2 tablespoons chopped pistachios

2 tablespoons freeze-dried raspberries

1. Preheat the oven to 340 F. Grease an 8-inch square baking tin and line the base and sides with baking parchment. Cream the butter and sugar in a bowl until pale and fluffy.

2. Add in both the flours plus the sea salt and stir until it begins to come together, though take care not to overwork the dough. Bring the dough together with your hands and press the mixture into the prepared tin. Flatten the surface of the shortbread with the back of a spoon and use a fork to prick marks along the length of the fingers.

3. Bake for 45 minutes until pale golden. Remove from the oven and, with a knife, mark lines where you are going to cut the shortbread. Leave to cool in the tin.

4. Melt the dark and white chocolate separately in heatproof bowls set over a pan of gently simmering water. Take each of your shortbread fingers and use a teaspoon to coat one-third with the chocolate. Sprinkle pistachios or freeze-dried raspberries over the chocolate end and allow to set. Serve with a hot cuppa, or they will keep in an airtight container for up to four days.

St. Patrick’s Day idea: Use green sprinkles in lieu of raspberries on the ends of the other biscuits for some extra green flare. Serve with Irish coffee or hot chocolate spiked with Irish Cream liqueur. Note: Caster sugar is finely ground granulated sugar. Its texture falls between granulated sugar and confectioner’s sugar. If you can’t find caster sugar, use a spice grinder to grind granulated sugar up to a finer texture.

Zesty Braised Beef with New Potatoes isn’t exactly corned beef, but it can be a worthy alternative. It’s warm, filling, and flavorful, and can be just the thing to eat on a chilly March day. What’s more, this rich beef can pair well with a dark stout like Guinness. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of “The Healthy Slow Cooker” (Robert Rose) by Judith Finlayson.

Zesty Braised Beef with New Potatoes

Serves 8

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

2 ounces chunk pancetta, preferably hot pancetta, diced

2 pounds trimmed stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes and patted dry

2 onions, finely chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1⁄2 teaspoon sea salt

1⁄2 teaspoon cracked black peppercorns

1⁄2 cup dry white wine

2 cups chicken stock

2 pounds small new potatoes, scrubbed and thinly sliced (about 30 tiny ones)

1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, dissolved in 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1⁄4 cup finely chopped parsley leaves.

1. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat. Add pancetta and cook, stirring, until nicely browned, about 3 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker stoneware (3 1⁄2 to 5 quart).

2. Add beef to skillet, in batches, and cook, stirring until browned, about 4 minutes per batch. Transfer to stoneware as completed.

3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add onions and cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, salt, and peppercorns and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add wine, bring to a boil, stirring and scraping up brown bits from bottom of pan for 2 minutes. Add stock and potatoes and bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 minutes.

4. Transfer to stoneware. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until potatoes are tender. Stir in cayenne solution. Cover and cook on high for 10 minutes. Transfer to a server dish and garnish with parsley. Serve with a big platter of roasted carrots.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with this recipe for “Irish Soda Bread” from AllRecipes.com.

Irish Soda Bread

Yields 1 1⁄2 loaf (20 servings)

4 cups all-purpose flour

1⁄2 cup margarine, softened

4 tablespoons white sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 tablespoon baking powder

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

1 cup buttermilk

1 egg

1⁄4 cup butter, melted 1⁄4 cup buttermilk

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a large baking sheet.

2. Mix flour, softened margarine, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together in a large bowl. Stir in 1 cup of buttermilk and egg. Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead slightly. Form dough into a round and place on the prepared baking sheet.

3. Combine melted butter with 1⁄4 cup buttermilk in a small bowl; brush loaf with this mixture. Use a sharp knife to cut an ‘X’ into the top of the loaf.

4. Bake in preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, 45 to 50 minutes. Check for doneness after 30 minutes. You may continue to brush the loaf with the butter mixture while it bakes.

TGreen Eggs and Ham: A St. Patrick’s Day Treat

By Pam Blair

Green Eggs and Ham

he beloved children’s book, Green Eggs and Ham, was the result of a bet between Dr. Seuss and his publisher, Bennett Cerf. The challenge was for Seuss to write a book using just 50 words—and not exceeding that limit. In the book, Sam-I-Am keeps offering a character a plate of green eggs and ham, which he refuses time after time, always declaring “I do not like green eggs and ham, Sam-I-Am!” Finally, the character agrees to try them and is surprised to learn he really does like green eggs and ham! Dr. Seuss won the bet made back in continues to warm

We celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th, to honor an Irish tradition born of the legend that says wearing green will make one invisible to leprechauns. This mythical creature will pinch anyone he is able to see unless we are wearing green for protection. The tradition has extended to include eating or drinking something green for further protection, like having a green beer, drinking green margaritas and smoothies, or eating green vegetables, and cake with green frosting. On this St. Patrick’s Day, why not play it safe by making green eggs and ham?

Like Dr. Seuss’s book, this recipe will become a family favorite and as Sam-I-Am encouraged, “Try them, try them!” You can change the ingredients or add whatever you like, using prosciutto instead of ham, or broccoli and green peppers instead of spinach. No matter how you choose to make them, you will soon be saying, “I do like green eggs and ham!”

Ingredients:

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 tbsp. butter

2 large shallots, finely chopped

1 10-oz. box or bag frozen chopped spinach, defrosted and liquid completely drained

½ cup heavy cream

Salt and ground pepper

Pinch of nutmeg

8 thin slices of ham

8 eggs

¼ cup grated

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees and coat a nonstick muffin tin with cooking spray.

2. Warm the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the shallots. Cook for several minutes until softened, then add the spinach and stir in the cream, a little salt and pepper, and nutmeg. Continue to cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.

3. Next, fold a slice of ham in half, and line each muffin cup with one slice of meat. Add a tbsp. of the cooked spinach mixture into each cup. Crack each egg in a small bowl first, and slide into muffin cup on top of spinach. Add a little salt and pepper to the top of each egg and sprinkle with ½ tsp. grated parmesan.

4. Bake in the oven until the eggs are set, about 15 minutes or longer if egg whites are not set. Let the eggs cool in the muffin cups for a few minutes before removing them. Serve and enjoy!

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.

NEW RELEASES OUT NOW!

Sad Eyes: Book One

1912 to 1939

Written by Dan

Perkins

Sad Eyes: 1912 to 1939 is the story of a woman, Mary Ellen Murphy, from Waterloo, Iowa, and her contribution to the United States and beyond as an Army nurse in World War II, helping save tens of thousands of soldiers’ lives. Her assistance to military leadership throughout her journey proves crucial in the outcome of the war. Mary Ellen combines great physical presence, incredible talent, and intelligence and remains committed to her values. She is constantly being challenged with more opportunities to serve her country and prove to others what women can do when given the chance. Join this red-haired and greeneyed Irish lass who is as smart as she is beautiful on her adventure during World War II and its aftermath.

Online readers: click here to order.

The Very Contrary Fairy

Written by

Julia Hurley

Illustrated by

Jessica Beaver

The very contrary fairy sure has a lot to say about what she must do each day. But when she decides to run away, will she make it home in time and stay?

Online readers: click here to order.

Boundaries.

Written by

Justin Shepherd

Meet Victoria, a curious little girl who wonders why she gets to see her mom’s family but not her dad’s. In Boundaries., Justin Shepherd skillfully tackles the delicate topic of family dynamics and the importance of setting boundaries in a way that children can understand. With charming illustrations and a gentle tone, Boundaries. is a must-read for children and families alike. It encourages open conversations about family relationships, respect, and the importance of safeguarding our emotional well-being.

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.

Online readers: click here to order.

Sad Eyes: Book Two

1939 to 1951

Written by

Dan Perkins

Sad Eyes: 1939 To 1951 is the story of a blossoming woman, Mary Ellen Murphy, from Waterloo, Iowa. She finds herself stationed at Hickman Hospital in early December 1941, and she’s halfway through her honeymoon when the Japanese bomb the fleet in the harbor. She is the right person, in the right place, at the right time to significantly contribute to the war effort. As an Army nurse over the balance of World War II, Mary Ellen helps save tens of thousands of soldiers’ lives. Her assistance to Army Chief of Staff John Marshall throughout her journey proves crucial to the war’s outcome. Join this red-haired, green-eyed, Irish lass who is as intelligent as she is beautiful on her adventure during World War II and its aftermath.

Online readers: click here to order.

Remembrances II

Written by Charles H. Norman III

This book is a collection of 32 true-to-life anecdotal short stories about intriguing people author Charles H. Norman has known, special places he’s traveled, and providential experiences that has come his way. Charlie writes as he talks, so as to connect with the reader quickly and easily. The goal of Remembrances II is to give the reader a respite from the hectic world in which we live … all the while entertaining, inspiring, and challenging readers to count each day as a gift from the One who made us. Online readers: click here to order.

Steamy Creek

A Cozy Romance Anthology

Written by Various Authors

Stories for the hopeless romantic! Take a dip in Steamy Creek where you’ll find flirtatious characters and tender tales of love. Seven talented authors come together to create an irresistible anthology that will leave you feeling smitten with every page. Online readers: click here to order.

The Mitchellgoshes: Party in the Wishing Well Book 2 (Coming Soon)

Written by Retta West

Illustrated by Grayson Campbell

The Mitchellgoshes are back. They are getting ready for their biggest adventure yet, and yes, our sweet friend the pink pig is back with new friends of her own. Can’t wait. See ya soon. Online readers: click here to pre-order.

The Green Knight: A Fairy Tale & A True Story (Coming Soon)

Written by Anna L. Sobol

Illustrated by Blake Marsee

Candisi Avita loves being a Green Knight. But when she must choose a different path, she finds a new adventure that changes her life forever. Online readers: click here to pre-order.

Now Accepting Your Horror Short Story Submissions

Jan-Carol

Publishing, Inc., of Johnson City, Tennessee, is now accepting submissions for the sixth edition of These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories.

Jan-Carol Publishing’s These Haunted Hills series has produced five frightening editions since debuting in the fall of 2017. Each anthology is filled with stories that indulge readers’ curiosity for the supernatural from an array of accomplished authors. These Haunted Hills: Book 6 is set for publication in autumn 2024.

Stories submitted to the sixth edition of JCP’s haunting anthology collection should follow the theme of spooky or supernatural stories set in the Appalachian region. Stories must be fiction. Please include with your submission a short author bio. Author bios should be no more than 50 words and should be written in the third person.

have a minimum of 1500 words and a maximum of 3500 words per story.

Authors accepted to the anthology will receive two free books upon publication. The deadline for submissions is May 31, 2024. Send your submissions to submissions@jancarolpublishing.com. Join the host of talented writers to take part in our most beloved anthology series!

Other Jan-Carol Publishing Appalachian-themed anthologies include their spring collection, consisting of Daffodil Dreams; Scattered Flowers; Wild Daisies; Easter Lilies; and Broken Petals. In addition, the company has also released a winter anthology, Snowy Trails: A Collection of Short Stories, and a romance anthology, Steamy Creek: A Cozy Romance Anthology. Each book is an assortment of stories from talented and award-winning authors, many of whom are recurring contributors across Jan-Carol Publishing’s anthology collections.

The submission fee per story is $20, and authors are allowed to submit a max of two stories. You may call the office at 423.926.9983 with a credit card number or mail a check to JCP at P.O. Box 701, Johnson City, TN, 37605. Stories must

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc. includes various imprints, each specializing in a particular genre—from Appalachian stories to children’s books and more. At JCP, we believe ‘every story needs a book.’ For more information or to schedule a book signing, call Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc., at 423.926.9983, or visit jancarolpublishing.com. Follow JCP on Facebook.

Listen to our new podcast!

Jan-Carol Publishing, a small book press, brings book publishing tips, changes in the book publishing industry, introduction to authors, books, and working behind the scenes in the book publishing industry. Listen, learn, and enjoy the interviews with different authors.

Upcoming Episodes:

March 1: Interview with authors Miles Burdine and Nikki Burdine

March 8: Favorite seasonal books

March 15: Interview with author Raven Howell

March 22: Interview with author Rick Toomey

March 29: Interview with author Donna Snow King

Jan-Carol Publishing, Inc.

The rainforest adventure of a poison arrow frog and his forest buddies who unite to save their home, and discover what it means to be true friends.

A young boy’s morning has a foggy start when a baby cloud by the name of Clancy tumbles from the sky. Can the children and their teacher find a way to get Clancy back home to his parents?

My Favorite Season is Spring is a beautifully illustrated picture book which every child will love. Through rhythm and rhyme, take a fun and exciting journey with little Susie as she describes her favorite season. She finds so many fun things to do and she loves the outdoors, and you will too! Great engaging teaching tool for children.

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. The story of Monkey is a reminder to appreciate who and what you have. It reminds you to live in the present instead of focusing on what you no longer have. Learning that everyday is a gift and you never know the surprises of what lies in the next day.

Raven Howell

Children learn about the seasons and weather through the diversity of a year, joyfully encountering birds and butterflies, adventuring at beaches, jumping in colorful leaf piles, and dashing through the whitest winter snow.

Order this book directly from JCP — for a discounted price and FREE shipping in March! Go to the “JCP Book Shop” at www.jancarolpublishing.com.

Stacey Lynn Schlegl

Jacqueline Krafft Patrice Wilkerson

Dale P. Rhodes, Sr.

Books You May Have Missed!

Yesterday’s Books and Tomorrow ’s Reading

Spring Short-Story Collections

In this anthology, eight talented authors come together to share stories centered around the strong and inspiring women of Appalachia. With tales that will bring readers to tears, evoke laughter, and invite you to befriend the characters within, Daffodil Dreams showcases the beauty and resilience of the Appalachian region and its people.

Wild daisies adorn the landscape in beautiful shapes, sizes, and colors. Much like wild daisies gracing a hillside, their characteristics reflect one’s life journey with their responsiveness to the environment, growth and change, and the ability to carry on year after year. Wild Daisies is a collection of short stories which capture the essence of the flowers; surviving and carrying on with beauty and grace.

Broken Petals is a collection of short stories that demonstrate strength, humor, and tenacity interlaced with influences of traditional Appalachian teachings and intertwined with today’s lifestyles. As individuals, we stand alone, but accepting an outstretched hand gives us an inner strength that creates a harmony in unity with beauty, compassion, and determination. It is healing, much like when broken flower petals are bound together: they create a bouquet of beauty, sweet fragrance, and originality with uncompromising endurance. Broken Petals brings that kind of healing.

Scattered Flowers is a collection of short stories centering on Appalachian women and the beauty of the Appalachian homeplace. These stories have been carefully crafted by an impressive collection of talented authors. Each tale is sure to tug your heartstrings, bringing laughter, tears, and lasting impressions that will keep you coming back to this anthology again and again.

Raven Howell

JeanAnn Taylor

Author of The Legend of Miren; I will Spin Again; and Misty the Lonely Mermaid

Saturday, March 23 1 p.m.

Book Signing, Food City Coeburn, VA

Saturday, March 9, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Book Signing, Food City Abingdon, VA

Friday, March 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Author of Seasons

Saturday, March 9, 2024, 9 – 10 a.m.

Storytime and Children’s Activities with Miss Raven Stanza Books 508 Main St. Beacon, NY

Michael Gryboski

Author of Carla Series

Saturday, March 16 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Book Festival

Suffolk Conference Center 100 East Constance Road Suffolk, VA

Book Reading

Book Bound Bookstore Blairsville, Georgia

Linda Hudson Hoagland

Author of The Lindsay Harris Murder Mystery Series, The Best Darn Secret; and anthologies Easter Lilies; Broken Petals; Wild Daisies; Scattered Flowers; Daffodil Dreams; and These Haunted Hills: A Collection of Short Stories Books 1-5

Weather Permitting:

Friday, March 1, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Book Signing, Food City Marion, VA

Saturday, March 2, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Book Signing, Food City Galax, VA

Saturday, March 16, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Book Signing, Food City St. Paul, VA

Friday, March 22, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Book Signing, Food City Bonham Road, Bristol, VA

Saturday, March 23, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Book Signing, Food City Virginia Avenue, Bristol, TN

Friday, March 29, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Book Signing, Food City Wytheville, VA

Saturday, March 30, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Book Signing, Food City Pulaski, VA

Notable People in Deaf History

As Deaf History Month is celebrated, people can look to these notable deaf individuals for inspiration.

Alice Cogswell

Born in Hartford, Connecticut in 1850, Cogswell lost her hearing at the age of two when she grew ill with what is now known as cerebral-spinal meningitis. However, when Cogswell was nine, her new neighbor, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, recognized her intellect and, along with Cogswell’s father, believed young Alice needed formal school. But at the time deafness was stigmatized, so there were no schools for deaf children. Gallaudet decided to remedy that and ultimately founded the American School for the Deaf in 1817. Cogswell remains an inspiration to millions of deaf and non-deaf individuals today.

Lou Ferrigno

Fans of “The Incredible Hulk” television series that aired from 1977 to 1982 undoubtedly recall the muscular title character played by Brooklyn-born Ferrigno. Ferrigno suffered substantial hearing loss as a child and ultimately turned to bodybuilding to overcome the bullying and teasing linked to his lack of hearing. That proved notable, as Ferrigno went on to become a champion bodybuilder, winning IFBB Mr. Universe competitions in consecutive years. Ferrigno also helped to establish a place for deaf performers in Hollywood, which has since benefitted from the contributions of various deaf actors, including Marlee Matlin and Shoshannah Stern.

Ludwig van Beethoven

According to the National Institutes of Health, German composer and pianist Ludwig van Beethoven began to lose

his hearing at age 28 and his hearing loss was complete by the time he was 44. Despite that, Beethoven continued to compose after losing his hearing, which serves as both a testament to his mastery of composition and as inspiration to his still-extensive array of fans, including those who are deaf and those with no hearing loss.

Rodger Young

A sports injury suffered in high school left the Ohioborn Rodger Young with ample hearing and vision loss. Despite that, Young passed his exams and joined the Ohio National Guard in 1939. Young ultimately found himself in the Pacific Theater during World War II, at which point his hearing loss was so substantial that he requested a demotion from sergeant to private to protect the men serving under him. That was not Young’s lone selfless act during his time in the war, as he ultimately lost his life protecting his squad during a deadly Japanese ambush. Young was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.

These are just a few of the many notable deaf individuals who have made invaluable contributions throughout world history.

March Kicks Off National Deaf History Month and Hearing Awareness Week

Young readers and their parents can celebrate Deaf History Month with Heart of Hearing, written by Meaghan Thomas! Heart of Hearing is an animated and entertaining story for children to encourage them to wear their aids. It provides and highlights aspects of the world around us that would be missed if they chose not to wear them. A portion of the proceeds go directly to the non-profit, The Heart of Hearing, Inc. created by the author.

The Reality of Broken Hearts

By Cindy K. Sproles

Trealize they are not alone in their emotions. Don’t pressure them to rush their grief. Keep in mind that every individual grieves differently. If after a few months, your loved one isn’t progressing through the grieving process, then seek the help of a physician.

he statistics are real, and so is broken heart syndrome. All too frequently, when we hit a devastating scenario in our lives, it’s easy to say that our hearts are breaking. The truth of the matter is dying from a broken heart is something that happens frequently in the lives of the elderly.

According to the American Heart Association, Broken Heart Syndrome, otherwise known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or takotsubo cardiomyopathy, can strike even if you’re healthy. We also know from further research that couples over forty years of marriage take the loss of a spouse much harder, and couples who have spent fifty years plus become prime candidates for takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

When we boil that down to a simpler definition, what we find is that elderly couples are so attached to their mates that when death occurs to one, the other experiences severe stress. Of course, the loss of a loved one at any age is stressful, but when you place fifty years of life together into the mix, loss becomes a reason to stop living. It is not uncommon for the surviving parent to pass within a year after they experience loss. Caregivers who have cared for couples will attest to this phenomenon.

Though both men and women can suffer from Broken Heart Syndrome, men seem to be more likely to experience this than women. Regardless of gender, this symptom is real.

Loss at any level is complex, and sometimes, despite our best efforts, we cannot ease the stress that comes to our parents when they lose their spouses. What do we do to help the surviving parent? Though this sounds cliché, the best help we have is love. Pure, continual love. Surround your surviving loved one with support and presence. Your attentiveness will make an amazing difference.

• Allow their grief More so, grieve with them. Sharing the grieving process helps the survivor

• Listen to them . Find moments in family history that brought laughter to your elderly parents. Laughter is healing. Laughter releases stress and it revives good memories. When we can remember the good moments, it becomes sustaining for the future.

• Spend time together But at the same time, allow the necessary space for your parent to adjust. Being over-attentive is just as bad as not being attentive at all. Find the balance and work within those boundaries. Just as we need others in times of loss, we also need the reality of being alone and remembering those things that were special to us.

• Be available. We can never fill the void left by the death of a loved one, but we can do all we can to bring acceptance, hope, and a reason to live. When your loved one loses a spouse, be available to help walk them through.

• Seek medical assistance. If it appears that your surviving parent is declining, seek professional help. Often, a physician can explain what is happening to your parent. Management is possible when they understand the stress. Medications, counseling, and grief share groups can also help with adjustment. Sometimes it simply requires the authority of a physician to help break through the grief.

Aging is difficult, and when there is a loss of the one who supports you, stress levels rise, and surviving parents feel lost. Help your loved one by being active and attentive with them. The reality of Broken Heart Syndrome is real, and it becomes a challenge to become aware of the symptoms that can mimic a heart attack.

Never underestimate the power behind grief and loss. It physically affects us from our eating, loss of sleep, and even to our mental aspects. As simple as it seems, love can be the one thing that saves an aging parent’s life.

How Women Can Safeguard Their Mental Health

Women face numerous challenges as they move forward in their personal and professional lives. In order to overcome such obstacles, women may feel the need to continually put on brave faces and act strong in assorted situations.

Over time, feeling the need to always appear ready to tackle the world can slowly chip away at women’s well-being, particularly their mental wellness. In order to right the ship, it may be necessary for women to identify behaviors that can improve and protect their mental health. The following lifestyle strategies can help.

• Get ample rest. Give yourself permission to rest when you need it, and do not feel guilty for not being productive. In fact, think of the time you devote to yourself as productive since it is benefiting your health.

• Consider meditation. Meditation can help soothe the mind and body. There are different meditation modalities. Some people like to sit listening to soothing music. You may want to join a yoga class where you can learn to breathe deeply. Alternative meditation disciplines may be more in-depth or involve spirituality. Experiment with what works for you.

• Exercise regularly. The health organization Women’s Care ™ says exercising regularly can help maintain mental health. Exercise often is mentioned as a cureall for many different conditions, and may produce the same mood-boosting benefits of prescription medications used to treat mental health conditions.

• Make friends. Socialization can help you feel less isolated and alone. Participating in activities with others and gaining new connections is a healthy way to boost the brain and improve mental health.

• Participate in activities you enjoy. Make time for activities that fuel hobbies or interests rather than just those required for work or maintaining the household.

• Soothing | Therapeutic Pain Easing | Anxiety Reducing Sleep Improving | Comfor ting www.voicemagazineforwomen.com | March 2024 | 25

5 Common Health Conditions that Affect Women

Men and women share various health concerns. However, certain health issues affect women differently and more frequently than men. In addition, certain health conditions, such as cervical cancer, are exclusive to women.

Women who want to take charge of their health can recognize that various conditions and diseases are more common than others. The following are five common and notable health issues affecting women today.

• Heart disease: Heart disease affects more than 60 million women in the United States and is the leading cause of death for women. Heart disease can affect women of all ages. Despite this, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says only 56 percent of women recognize the prevalence of heart disease. In addition, it’s important to note that most women between the ages of 40 and 60 have at least one or more risk factors for heart disease and likely do not even realize it.

• Breast cancer: Routine mammograms and other breast cancer screenings can help women detect breast cancer at its earliest stage when it is most treatable.

• Cervical and ovarian cancer: Cervical cancer originates in the cervix, which is part of the lower uterus, while ovarian cancer begins in the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Pap smears can detect cervical cancer, but currently there is no screening test for ovarian cancer. A pelvic exam and ultrasound or other imaging may be recommended if doctors suspect the presence of ovarian cancer.

• Reproductive health issues: The Orlando Clinical Research Center says that reproductive issues can have a major affect on women’s quality of life and overall health. Some common issues include uterine fibroids, gynecological cancers, interstitial cystitis, endometriosis, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Pain, heavy or irregular periods and other discharge may be symptoms of these types of conditions.

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• Short-Term Rehabilitation

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Life Care Center of Gray focuses on inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation with 24-hour skilled nursing care.

• Mental health concerns: Rates of anxiety and depression are higher among women than men. The Anxiety Disorders Association of America reports that, from the time a girl reaches puberty until about the age of 50, she is twice as likely to have an anxiety disorder as a man.

Recognition of the most common health issues to affect 791 Old Gray Station Rd

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Gray, TN 423.477.7146

How Reading Affects Children

Early childhood is a critical time for personal development. During this period, many intellectual, physical, and emotional changes are taking place in a child’s body at a rapid pace. Parents want to give their children the best opportunities for success in life, and encouraging children to read is one of the ways they can help youngsters develop intellectual and emotional maturity.

Data from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development project, an American national cohort study with more than 10,000 participants across different ethnicities and varying socioeconomic statuses, found that reading for pleasure in early childhood was linked with better scores on comprehension cognition assessments and better educational attainment in young adolescence. It also correlated to fewer mental health problems and less time spent on electronic devices.

Reading is a learned activity, and reading early on with a child is a bonding activity between caregiver and child. The Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children says reading has the potential to increase academic achievement by improving vocabulary and learning comprehension. Interactive reading also helps increase mental imagery and language processing.

It’s important to note that reading can positively affect the body physically as well. Children may experience less stress by reading, as reading is thought to be even more calming than listening to music or even taking a walk.

In a study published in the journal Psychological Medicine, researchers in the UK and China found that 12 hours of reading a week was the optimal time linked to improved brain structure and good brain health. When researchers examined brain scans from those who had been reading from an early age, the scans showed moderately larger total brain areas and volumes, including in regions of the brain responsible for roles in critical cognitive functions.

“It’s widely accepted that [reading] inspires creativity, increases empathy, and reduces stress,” says Professor Barbara Sahakian from the University of Cambridge.

Reading is a skill that children should begin to enjoy at an early age. Parents can introduce reading to their children by reading to them and then supporting children’s efforts at independent reading.

How to Start Crafting with Epoxy Resin

Epoxy resin is not a new material, but it has made a resurgence in recent years and might be worthy of investigation by creative individuals who have yet to use it.

What is epoxy resin?

Resin is a two-part liquid that must be mixed, resulting in a chemical reaction that produces heat. Over time, the finished product hardens into a solid, clear surface. Typically, the liquids are mixed at a one-to-one ratio. Epoxy resin crafts are strong, waterproof, and some are food-safe, according to the Mod Podge Rocks blog.

Choosing the right resin

Resin comes in different viscosities. Thinner resins (low viscosity) have a longer cure time, so there will be a longer wait to unmold crafts. However, a low-viscosity resin is best for crafts that require intricate detail. Thicker resins (high viscosity) will cure faster and are better for casting into large, deep spheres. There also are special heat-resistant resins that will take even longer to cure but are worth the time when making projects that will encounter hot items, such as coasters.

Although epoxy resin can be used for many projects, polyester or polyurethane resins also will create

a glass-like finish, says Gathered, a crafting resource. UV resin can be cured under a UV lamp and is ideal for smaller projects.

Yellowing and color

Some resins will yellow with time, especially when using them in clear form. It is important to select a resin that specifically says it is resistant to yellowing.

Resin dyes can be found in transparent or opaque pigments and give the resin color. It can be fun to experiment with mixing custom colors.

Perfecting resin will take time

There is a learning curve to working with resin, so beginners should not be too hard on themselves if their initial projects do not turn out perfect. Typically a poor result comes down to user error and not an inferior project.

Tips to working with resin

It’s important when working with resin to pick a crafting area that can get messy. Choose a spot that is safe and cover the work surface. In addition, choose a spot in a low-humidity environment and a workspace that has a warm, consistent temperature. Good lighting is essential.

Some epoxy resins can smell, so people are urged to work in a well-ventilated area and to avoid directly breathing in any resin fumes.

Resin can be turned into cubed art, photo art, jewelry, frames, cutting boards, coasters, and keychains. And this is just the beginning. As individuals perfect their techniques, there’s no limit to the possibilities of working with resin.

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.

Do you have a story of success to share? Are you proud of your roots and accomplishments?

’s

picture for inspiring other women to pursue

achieve the success that they deserve.

JCP is now accepting submissions for this debut elite

accomplished women to share their stories. The book will be sold on Amazon and other retail outlets in print and E-book formats.