Women's View Magazine June 2023

VOLUME 17 | ISSUE 6 JUNE | 2023 Going More inside: Places Girls with Goals @ 2313 Glitter Ave. Great Explorations Antarctica & Mt. Everest Miss Fayetteville Fulfilling many firsts Savor Summer Flowers, stars and shops

Close Letter from the Editor VOLUME 17 ISSUE 6 W omen love going places. PUBLISHER We like getting together Bill Bowman, F & B Publications with family and friends, [email protected] traveling to see new sights and keeping our calendars EDITOR full — attending everything Crissy Neville from committee meetings and [email protected] concerts to church functions and sports. Even if not done for ART DIRECTOR fun, we still like checking boxes Courtney Sapp-Scott and crossing off things. [email protected] While most all women like to additional June WVM-featured GRAPHIC DESIGNER go, some are on the go. Taking women touching down Isaiah Jones risks, starting things and much farther — literally and becoming firsts — going where figuratively. The travels of [email protected] others have not gone before or, women journeying to two of the at least, not so many. most remote places on Earth OPERATIONS DIRECTOR are interesting and inspiring Paulette Naylor Take this month’s cover story tales — straight from the about the recently opened 2313 bucket list. [email protected] Glitter Ave. women’s boutique, for example. As owners of WVM writers help us go places, MARKETING REPRESENTATIVE Fayetteville's first fully size- too. In sharing their grand Linda McAlister inclusive boutique, Alexandria adventures, special skills, Shoup and Mary Conrad do causes and cares, contributors [email protected] much more than sell apparel; help us meet new people, learn they encourage body positivity unique things and consider SALES ASSISTANT and support self-esteem. different perspectives. Enjoy Sheila Baker the trip in the \"Going Places\" Our Woman’s Spotlight star, June 2023 issue. [email protected] Rachel Townsend, the 2023 Miss Fayetteville, began her JUNE CONTRIBUTORS ascent in pageantry as the 2018 Kalli Ziegler Miss Methodist and became the Art Salisbury first African American winner Ashley Shirley in the university’s history. Jenna May You’ll find the footprints of Ashley Sanders Allison Davis Are you interested in writing? Consider contributing an article or pitching a Lynne Smith story idea to WVM. We want to elevate your voice. For more information, email Dinah Goodman 2 | AU GwoUmSeTnsv2i0ew2@2 upandcomingweekly.com. Be sure to like us and leave comments Ken Brandt on our Facebook page. Donna Lewis Amy Stidham 2 | JUNE 2023 Photo Credit: Cover Photo and pp. 18-19 by Isaiah Jones On the cover: The owners of 2313 Glitter Ave.: (L) Mary Conrad and (R) Alexandria Shoup Pp. 20-21 Photos by Cel @ Style to Bits WOMEN'S VIEW MAGAZINE 208 ROWAN ST. FAYETTEVILLE, NC, 28301 PHONE: 910-484-6200 FAX: 910-484-9218 Women’s View Magazine is for, by and about women in Cumberland County. Published by F&B Publications in conjunction with Media Marketing Management. ©2023 by F&B Publications, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or advertisement without permission is strictly prohibited. Various vector sources credited to © Freepik and © Vecteezy. Association of Community Publishers

4 WOMAN’S SPOTLIGHT 18 NICE AND THRIFTY Get to know the glass-ceiling-shattering 2023 Miss For saving money and seeking treasure, thrift stores Fayetteville, Rachel Townsend, a young woman around Cumberland County deliver! Allison Davis going places, getting recognized and making a takes us on a store tour in this feature. difference. 21 SHE'S COLD AS ICE 6 OUTDOOR ALMANAC Cryotherapy, short for cryogenic therapy, is an Our garden guru Amy Stidham is back and head unconventional therapy or treatment that uses over heels for hydrangeas, summer's big bloomer. freezing or near-freezing temperatures. Writer Dinah Goodman chilled out to write this piece for WVM! 9 ANTARCTICA ADVENTURE Years ago, Fayetteville's Kalli Ziegler set her cap on 23 FAITH BASED visiting all seven continents. She reached that goal Contributing writer Lynne Smith queries WVM this year with an expedition to Antarctica. readers this month: Are you stuck in a rut? Her article reminds us that God invites us into a way of right 12 MONEY MATTERS thinking. Hindered to live your best life due to money worries? Contributor Jenna May provides a tutorial this 24 WEDDING SEASON month on goal setting to reach financial objectives. June is officially the favorite month of brides worldwide. This wedding dress shopping primer can 14 ALL THAT GLITTERS IS GOLD help start the planning for next year's nuptials. Glamour, glitter and everyday fun fashion collide, all in the sizes and styles you need, at the boutique of 26 SHOOT FOR THE STARS 2313 Glitter Ave. — our June cover story! Learn about the stars of the June skies and how to get started if you are new to stargazing in this fun 16 JOURNEY TO THE TOP summer piece. One writer takes us to the \"bottom of the earth\" and another to the top, namely the grand heights of Mt. 28 LET'S TALK Everest — Earth's highest mountain above sea level. This month, school psychologist Donna Lewis guides how to facilitate summer learning while promoting fun and free time. 2023 JUNE | 3

Woman's Spotlight: Rachel Townsend Miss Fayetteville 2023 By Ashley Shirley Pembroke. Townsend discusses realized how much support I had her future plans, financial from people in the community I n 2018 Rachel Townsend stood literacy platform and her who saw my potential. I enrolled on stage in a beautiful teal ball mother's social media savvy in at Methodist University and fell in gown and accomplished something the following interview with love with the college. I competed she never dreamed she would: she Women's View Magazine. in Miss Methodist as a freshman, was crowned Miss Methodist, the and by God's grace, I was crowned. first African American winner in Women's View Magazine: Rachel, I took about five years off before Methodist University's pageant congratulations on all your competing again and am now history. success! Have you always wanted to blessed enough to serve my city compete in pageants? as Miss Fayetteville. I love every Since her historic win, Townsend, second of it, showing people the a 2021 graduate of Methodist, has Rachel Townsend: Thank you \"Can-Do Spirit\" in the \"Can-Do used her platform and the support so much! And no, I was a very City.\" of her community to secure the reluctant pageant girl. I grew 2023 Miss Fayetteville Scholarship up with them — my mother is WVM: What has been the Pageant crown. She now has her a teacher at Jack Britt, and I important thing you've learned in sights set on Miss America 2024 remember going to the Miss Jack your tenure as Miss Methodist and as she prepares to represent the Britt pageants with her every year, now Miss Fayetteville? \"Can-Do City\" in the Miss North but I never saw myself there. In my Carolina pageant. adolescence, as many people do, I RT: I didn't understand the weight stopped believing in myself and my Born and raised in Fayetteville, ability to make a difference or have Townsend works at Fayetteville an impact. State University as the Office of Career Services internship I didn't really get involved [in coordinator while pursuing competing] until I was 17, and I a graduate degree in public administration from UNC Ashley Shirley is a Fayetteville writer originally from Auburn, Alabama, a military spouse and mama of two very cool kids. When she's not writing, she can be found reading, baking or both! 4 | JUNE 2023

of what it means to serve until I field so everyone can become and how are you preparing for the Miss won Miss Methodist. It's important remain financially free. North Carolina Pageant? for me to remember that this crown is not mine; it belongs to WVM: What has been the most RT: Honestly, I prepare every Fayetteville. It's my duty to serve rewarding aspect of wearing the day. I prepare by how I live my life this city the best way I can and be crown thus far? and by serving and researching the best public servant I can be. my platform — my Google search RT: It's been amazing to learn history would probably make WVM: So, your platform is about people's financial journeys people laugh. Beyond the mock financial literacy — can you go into and take my platform all over interviews and wardrobe shopping, that in greater detail? the city. People think kids can't I prepare by serving my family, grasp financial concepts, but I've friends and city. RT: Absolutely! I have a huge been able to speak in different passion for finance and financial elementary classrooms, and I've Also, my mom is a big help. My literacy. I truly believe the been so impressed. mom comes with me to almost conversation around those topics every event. I love having her with needs to change. Fayetteville is I love the quote, me. She helps me by ensuring I considered a tier-1 community, \"Be the change hold myself to the highest standard which means, among other you want to see by encouraging and critiquing things, that people in economic in the world.\" me when needed. She's also my distress here only have about a unofficial photographer; I think 16% chance of escaping poverty. Listening to the youth and even she has more pictures of what I'm We're at a crossroads; we have to older adults has helped me broaden doing on Facebook than I do! do something about the financial the scope of my platform. I love issues plaguing the people of bringing about positive change, WVM: Any advice for the young Fayetteville right now. We need and speaking about finance has women coming behind you? to implement financial literacy helped me see the greatest places education at all levels — the of impact. RT: Every day, thinking of ways younger, the better. to make the world a better place Also, [the exposure]. The Miss has been my mindset since I was My initiative, Faithful Over Few, America organization is nationally a child, and it is the best advice I teaches youth and adults about the recognized, and I want to spread could give. importance of financial literacy, the message of financial security even at the elementary school nationwide because it's worthy. I To live and lead a life of service level. I'd love to see it blossom into want people to feel equipped to live a business that services different the life they want debt-free. I want means looking for the world's government organizations and to bring people hope. offers programs for people of problems and recognizing them, all ages. The secrets of financial WVM: Speaking of Miss America, success need to be more equitable; but not sitting in the madness FOF seeks to level that playing of it. To think of ways to provide solutions for the issues we see every day is the best thing we can do. 2023 JUNE | 5

Hooray for Hydrangeas! By Amy Stidham Healthy hydrangeas heap on Pollinators are attracted to most Can I move or divide a big happiness. lacecap and panicle hydrangea hydrangea? It's summertime, and hydrangea with smaller fertile flowers in Transplant dormant hydrangeas blossoms are here to create a the center of the bloom. Oakleaf in the winter. Larger firecracker-like display. These hydrangea also produce seeds hydrangeas have a shallow, wide popular show-stopping plants that songbirds will enjoy. root system and will be more complement any garden. What's difficult to transplant. A smaller more, North American native Where and when should I plant shrub will establish better in and non-native hydrangeas are a hydrangea? your garden. very accommodating. Here's a Fall or cool early spring is quick guide to help solve the a good time to plant. Select How do I water and fertilize my mystery of growing hydrangeas. smaller shrubs to start in your hydrangea? garden and grow the size that Always do a soil test so you What kind of hydrangea do I matures to fit the space. Provide know how much and what type have? shelter from high winds and to add. Overfertilizing with Look at the size, shape and morning sun to part-shade too much nitrogen will cause color of the leaves and flowers during the hot afternoon sun. more leaf growth and fewer to determine what you have. flowers. Bigleaf hydrangeas Also, if it's growing well, note Planting on cloudy days is take a light application in its location. There are six recommended. Amend an entire March, May and June. Oakleaf, hydrangeas commonly grown planting area, not just the hole. climbing, and panicle varieties in American Dig a wide hole twice the width take an application in April and gardens; of the root ball but the same June. Smooth and mountain scan this depth being careful not to plant hydrangea take only one QR code to the crown below ground. Fill in application in early spring after learn about the hole with the same soil and the last freeze. Wait to fertilize each type. add 2\" to 3\" of mulch away from one to two months after first They are: the plant's stem. Plant smaller planting. Place fertilizer out to • Bigleaf, H. macrophylla, hydrangeas in 16-18\" wide the ends of the branches and • Panicle, H. paniculata, containers with drain holes in water well. • Smooth, H. arborescens, the bottom. Eventually, it will • Oakleaf, H. quercifolia, require transplanting to the Why is my hydrangea wilting? • Climbing, H. petiolaris, and garden. Hydrangeas need to go Summer sun can cause the • Mountain, H. serrata. dormant and can be placed in leaves to curl and wilt if it's very the garage or basement during hot, so it may not be a watering Are there native hydrangeas, freezing temperatures. Water problem. If it recovers at night, and do they attract pollinators? a few times during the winter, it may just need more shade. Yes, look for smooth climbing and don't bring hydrangeas The roots are shallow and and oakleaf hydrangeas. inside the house. Amy Stidham is a nature enthusiast passionate about gardening, landscaping and wildlife, especially birds, beneficial insects and pollinators. She enjoys teaching and learning as a Master Gardener Volunteer, NC Environmental Educator and therapeutic horticulturist. 6 | JUNE 2023

should be covered by about depend on soil pH and the stunted flowers or leaves. 2\" of shredded leaves or bark ability of plant roots to take up mulch. Water deeply and check aluminum and iron. Soil with Prevention tips: Water early in the soil with your finger under acidic pH of 5-5.5 will give blue the day at the base of the plant the mulch before watering blooms. Alkaline soils of pH and keep the soil moist, drying again or too much. 7 will bloom pink, and pH of about 2\" between watering. 5.5-7 will be a lighter purple. Remove fallen, affected I don’t know if or when I White blooming hydrangeas leaves or blooms and throw should prune my hydrangea. will always be white. Look them away. Ensure good air Prune out any dead, diseased, for those blooming white and circulation by spacing plants crossing or twiggy branches to then develop a pinkish hue according to their mature the ground. Open the center of if you want some color. Add growth. the plant to improve airflow. amendments in fall or spring: Remove any winter-damaged Lower pH by adding elemental I apologize for any text tips as well. sulfur; raise pH by adding editing errors, particularly ground lime. in botanical names. Consult Bigleaf can be pruned after your local NCSU extension flowering in late summer. Can I make the bloom color resources below. Alternatively, leave late flowers darker or more intense? for winter interest, trimming Typically, hydrangeas up north Find out more about your off above the first bud set and in the mountains have hydrangeas, their care and in early spring. Trim taller more intense blooms due to some companion plants branches to maintain a nice cooler temperatures at night. by visiting local gardens growing habit by cutting 1/4\" and checking out the N.C. above the top third of the What are the spots on my Extension Gardener Plant fourth bud set. Rebloomers hydrangea leaves? Toolbox link: like Endless Summer® bloom Watch out for botrytis blight https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu on new wood, so trim a few — browning leaves, leaf inches below the fading early spots, grey mold; powdery Relax and enjoy; this is the summer flower for a second mildew — cottony white best part of gardening. Plant bloom. powder; Cercospora leaf what makes you happy, grow spots — reddish-brown rings what you can eat and choose Smooth and panicle hydrangea like freckles on the leaf; and what works for you. flower on new wood. Prune smooth hydrangea to bottom 2023 JUNE | 7 buds in later winter; prune about ½ of the panicle variety to ensure three bud sets are left in early spring. Oakleaf can be deadheaded for a second bloom but need no other pruning except dead branches or those impeding a path. Leave flowers on for songbirds, and trim them in early spring. I want pink or blue flowers, what do I do? The bloom color of bigleaf and mountain hydrangea

8 | JUNE 2023

A Bucket List Fulfilled Journey to Antarctica By Kalli Ziegler E xcitement built as we prepared to venture of snow and ice? Another day passed as we sailed to the last continent on our bucket list. For further south along the coast. months I shopped for appropriate clothing and randomly chatted with anyone who would listen. Crossing the Antarctic Circle, our ship adhered to The reactions were always awe and amazement. the maritime tradition of requesting safe passage Now that my husband Drew and I have explored from King Neptune. The joyful re-enactment of the bottom of the world, as our friend Bill the ancient ceremony was played out on the aft Wunderlich calls Antarctica in song, I look back deck. The crew member who had crossed the with these same sentiments — and so much more. circle more than any other on board was crowned King Neptune, and his court was made up of As a military family and travel enthusiasts, those “Shellbacks” who had survived the rights Drew and I have seen much of the world. Still, of passage on previous voyages. The innocent this cruise was unlike any other cruise we had “Pollywogs” were issued a task to complete before taken. After a day at sea, we rounded Cape Horn they were bestowed and headed into Drake’s acceptance. Despite the Passage, where the Atlantic unmerciful chill factor, collides with the Pacific. everyone was enjoying Around lunchtime, on the festivities. Musicians the third day, the captain played, champagne announced land sighted floated, and delicacies to off the port side. You could commemorate the event feel the palpitations as the passed on deck. entire accompaniment of passengers held their It literally took 20 breaths and peered out minutes to dress for every available window. our first excursion. We Initially, it seemed like an joined other passengers illusion as the dense white in clomping around in clouds melded with the ubiquitous red outer brilliance of the glaciers. coats and blue boots, Where did the sky end and as we headed down to the land begin? Soon we board Zodiacs for an saw a few outcroppings of rocks peaking beneath exhilarating ride through the snow. the Antarctic icescapes toward an encounter of many “firsts.” The first sighting of a Leopard This was surreal! Never in my dreams did I expect seal sunning on a floating platform of ice, the to see our southernmost continent. Out there lay first rookery of penguins along the shoreline, Antarctica! Dare I imagine what it would be like the first rocky footsteps as we exited the Zodiac to experience landing on this magnificent desert into shallow waters, and most anticipated and memorable of all, our first step onto Antarctica. 2023 JUNE | 9

Tears flowed down my frosty cheeks. Thoughts supplies on dusty shelves, an old cast iron stove flooded my mind: hug, hold, and tell me this is for cooking, recipes for preparing penguin stew really happening! and omelets, old magazines with dog-eared pages and faded decks of cards. Repair sheds and dog Unsteady balance has long been my nemesis and pens were close by. was multiplied trying to traverse dense gravel, ice and snow. The ship’s crew was kind, offering a As with any other cruise, the culinary delights steady arm to help climb the steep landing sights. exceeded expectations. With 350 passengers Thankful for the poles provided for traversing the pampered by 328 crew members, we never snowy elevations, we set off to explore. wanted for comfort. As wonderful as the amenities were — heated indoor pool, spa At the time of our two-week trip, mid-February jacuzzi, sauna, steam room and much more —the through early March, the penguins were molting. things not experienced on our other voyages Over three months, they shed their current layers are what surprised us most: the most amazing of feathers while new ones grow in. They cannot showers, including a snow-laden one! That’s enter the water to feed during this time and are right. You pull a chain and are suddenly covered miserable till molting is complete. Additionally, with an avalanche of snow from the ceiling. Our many nest and tend to their hatchlings this Scandinavian friends love going from hot to frigid season, with parents of these fuzzy babies taking cold. More water wonders were a soaking pool in turns guarding the young. To me, it appeared that a large solarium with a bar and beverage service within a rookery, molting, nesting and hatching and a series of polar plunge pools, again ordered all took place in varying stages, enabling us to see by temperature. the full gamut. Our ship also had special operations boats As if the sightings of wildlife in Antarctica weren’t that took us into fjords on whale-watching enough, the very majesty of nature’s sculptures expeditions. These high-powered crafts had and color palettes exceeded all expectations. This entire trip was filled with us praising our Almighty God for His creation and for allowing us to experience it. We made four landings on the continent. Twice, we entered research stations from past eras of exploration. These time capsules are historic memorials to those brave enough to travel to this snow-covered wonderland. The crude huts built for overwintering in the otherwise uninhabitable climate contained relics of the past: rusted tins of 10 | J U N E 2 0 2 3

seats raised on shock absorbers, allowing end. We want to keep the memories alive and keep for comfortable wave running. From whale the bond of sharing those raptured moments encounters, including seeing pods of whales feed forever fresh. My goal was to set foot on all seven in the calm waters of the fjords, to time on the continents, and now I have. Zodiacs and special ops boats, it was all amazing! What’s on your bucket list? Another amazing experience was going below the icy waters in a submarine. Each passenger had first to pass a simple agility test and fill out a consent form before playing the role of Captain Nemo and going “50,000 leagues under the sea.” Outfitted with special booties and life vests, we ferried via Zodiac to our dive platform. This tiny submersible only held seven passengers, including the master of the boat. As the bubbles rose to indicate our descent, our seats swiveled toward observation portals. Nearing the bottom, exterior flood lights came on, illuminating the sea creatures that existed in this frigid domain. Sightings included white conical-shaped sea sponges — creatures that looked like foot-long worms attached to outcroppings — and varying sizes of starfish — not the typical kind but instead spiny critters resembling stick outlines of a star with no apparent body filling out their interior. Passing time mandated our return to northern destinations. Exhausted but still on a spiritual high, we headed home. Thirty-plus hours later, we dragged our weary bodies into the house. Unpacked and laundry done, we crashed into the sleep of the dead. Getting ready for church the next morning was like awakening from a dream so spectacular that only those who have been there can understand the awe of creation. Praise for the God of our universe flowed from my soul as I hugged Drew in disbelief of what we were blessed to experience. The trifecta trip of a lifetime, the expedition celebrated 50 years of marriage, 70 years of a wonderful life in recognition of my recent birthday and the joy of semi-retirement. Our Antarctica venture was the capstone of all three. Setting foot on the seventh continent thus completed another item on our bucket list. Sharing this life-inspiring adventure with other shipmates, we created a special bond, unlike any other ship we have sailed on. This voyage brought souls together and a desire to stay connected beyond debarkation and return home. A flurry of exchanging cell phone and email contacts occurred all over the ship. We didn’t want it to 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 11

• Saving for Retirement • Buying big-ticket items • Paying for kids’ college • Starting a business Do any of those look familiar? My personal goal involves a European vacation. Let’s use the SMART goal technique to make that goal a reality. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound. To make Setting Financial Goals that European vacation happen, I started by By Jenna May researching costs and settled on a ballpark figure of $10,000. Next, Last month, we talked about setting up a budget, I determined a Broken into bite- which is just a plan for where your money goes. date I felt was sized steps, my goal But why did you spend all the time and effort to attainable — create a budget? Because you have dreams, and realizing those dreams requires money! Today, four years away. actually feels like let’s define those dreams and create a vision for Dividing by 48 something I can do! your future. Get excited — this is going to be fun! months, I needed to save $210 monthly to fund my goal. Broken down into bite-sized steps, my Let’s start by defining If money were goal feels like something I can do rather than just what wealth means to no object, I you. What do you want a crazy childhood dream. to do with your life? would... What if you have several competing goals? Good for you having big dreams! You need to Reflect on the following prioritize them and accomplish them in order of precedence. First, don’t neglect your retirement statement, “If money account. Contributions are usually tax- deductible, lowering your tax bill and saving you were no object, I would money in the long run. If your employer offers a 401k match, choosing this goal first is an even _____.” Many people haven’t taken the time smarter strategy. Don’t leave that free money on the table! to think that idea through, but you might be surprised by what you learn about yourself as you create your goals. If you’re like me, you might feel overwhelmed by Second, determine to pay off debt as quickly how many goals there are to choose from. In that as possible. By sticking to your budget, you can case, try picturing your life in one, five and ten stop digging the hole through overspending. To years from today. What does your picture look conquer what you already owe, get creative. Can like? Do you see yourself in a home of your own? you sell items from your home, take on a second Perhaps you envision sitting on a tropical beach job or slash your spending? The more intense you with a cool drink in your hand? Let’s use those are with attacking your debt, the sooner it will be images to build out goals to get you there. gone, and your money can start funding your dream. Some common goals are as follows. • Owning your home Jenna May is a milspouse who has lived in the Fayetteville area since 2019 with her husband and two teenagers. She discovered her love for numbers during the COVID lockdowns and earned an accounting degree from FTCC. 12 | J U N E 2 0 2 3

Pro Tip: Put your Emergency Fund in a money-market account Third, plan for life’s curveballs. Build up an emergency fund of three to six months’ worth of expenses so you don’t have to dip into the goal money you are building up. Consider setting up a maintenance fund for things like new tires and leaky faucets. These kinds of expenses are bound to come up, so why not plan for them in advance so they don’t derail your goals? Keep these funds in an easy-to-access place like a money-market fund. Current interest rates of 4-5% make these accounts a great place to store money you may need to quickly access while earning a little interest at the same time. Once you have debt conquered and have a financial buffer set up, you will be amazed at how quickly your dreams can become a reality. So go ahead and define your dreams and apply those SMART Goals. See it transform from a hazy ideal to a tangible, attainable plan you can work towards each day. Write down your goal on a slip of paper and keep it near you. Dare I say make it your phone’s lock screen? Having financial goals keeps you focused. When you find yourself tempted to sabotage it by overspending, look at your goal and remember how the long-term benefits are worth the short-term sacrifices. I want to see Europe more than I want that item on the shelf before me. While money can’t buy happiness, it can make achieving your goals possible. Building the future of which you always dreamed is not impossible — it just takes a bit of planning. So set your goals and pursue those dreams! 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 13

You Can Never Have Enough By Ashley Sanders 2313 Glitter Ave. owners (L) Alexandria Shoup and (R) Mary Conrad Brand new among the local storefronts of Fayetteville more, they recommend texting GALIVE to 77222 to is the clothing boutique 2313 Glitter Ave. Alexandria never miss a live sale. Shoup and Mary Conrad are the going-places, getting-things-done cousins, best friends and owners In 2020, Shoup and Conrad began leasing a warehouse of this exciting new retail store. They opened physical in Fayetteville to store their growing collection of doors March 25 after operating virtually for the last merchandise and host occasional events. The start of eight years. the pandemic in 2020 marked the beginning of huge growth for 2313 Glitter Ave. as online shopping, and 2313 Glitter Ave. — pronounced 23-13 Glitter Ave. — Facebook lives took off. The co-owners also launched is a fully inclusive boutique dedicated to spreading their mobile app and hired employees to help manage positivity and confidence. Shoup and Conrad select this growth. clothing pieces and accessories of all kinds to offer their customers the same styles for regular through In opening their inaugural storefront in Fayetteville plus sizes. “We like to say that we’re dishing out this spring, the women added a growing in-person confidence and body positivity with cute clothes on community to their thriving fold of on-line followers. the side,” said Shoup. In addition, 2313 Glitter Ave. has participated in many On their first day, the two business owners witnessed local events, including the Holly Day Fair, Hugs and their highest sales to date for in-person shopping, Kisses Consignment Sale and pop-up sales at Byrne’s with an average of 300 customers in attendance. A line Mill Place Bed and Breakfast in Gray’s Creek. The at the door and positive feedback from the community women have also hosted pop-up sales for Small further fueled their grand opening excitement. Business Saturday and their annual business birthday celebration in August. Taking flight in 2015, 2313 Glitter Ave. began as an Etsy store selling vinyl and similar products. Shoup and Shoup and Conrad plan to cultivate an uplifting Conrad ran the business from their homes as a side shopping experience now that they own a physical hustle, never imagining what it would become. location. They offered refreshments and trendy After years of growth, they began selling clothing permanent jewelry for the grand opening, plus a fun in 2018 through social media. Shoup and Conrad environment for customers to meet and greet. In the hosted weekly live videos to sell their merchandise, future, they hope to host events at their storefront for and over time, they built a large, body-positive the local community to enjoy a night out. online community. The two entrepreneurs still run the bulk of their business through their platforms As with all entrepreneurs, 2313 Glitter Ave.'s owners on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, as well as their have faced difficulties on their path to success. In app, where they host daily live video sales. To find out 2020, they experienced rapid business growth, both a Originally from Washington State, Ashley Sanders is a Christian, military spouse and expectant mother. A Liberty University senior majoring in communications and local intern with Freebird Communications, Ashley enjoys spending time with loved ones, being outdoors, baking or sipping coffee in her free time. 14 | J U N E 2 0 2 3

blessing and a challenge. Scaling meant quick adjustments and long nights for the two businesswomen. Even now, at times, they struggle to keep up with demand and face supply chain issues, an increasing problem for businesses since the pandemic. The business partners described a particular struggle for the mission of their boutique — a gap in the wholesale industry that makes it challenging to find clothing pieces offered in all sizes at affordable prices. However, Shoup and Conrad are committed to this mission, even if it requires extra work behind the scenes. Shoup shared that patience is important when starting a business. “It’s not an overnight process,” she said. “We’ve been in this almost 10 years, and we just kept going.” It was years before the pair took a paycheck from their business, something that was made possible with the support of their families. “We’ve been very fortunate that we were able to put a lot of the profits back into the business,” Shoup reflected. Conrad shared that “having that end goal in mind and always working towards that, even if there are setbacks or challenges” is key to success as an entrepreneur. Shoup continued, “Our end goal is promoting confidence and body positivity. That is the forefront of our business over selling clothes.” These two ladies are focused on their brand and what sets them apart. Both Shoup and Conrad are from Fayetteville. Shoup, age 31, was homeschooled as a youth and earned her degree from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Shoup enjoys time with her family and dog when she is not working. As a fifth-generation business owner, Shoup comes from a family of entrepreneurs who all hail from Cumberland County. Wife to her high school sweetheart and mother of three, Conrad, age 33, has had much practice balancing family and work. The North Carolina native dreamed of having a family and a successful career. Years later, thanks to the launch of 2313 Glitter Ave., she now has both. Located at 1009 Marlborough Rd., the boutique is open Wednesdays from noon to 8 p.m. and the first Saturday of every month from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Whether you meet the store owners in person or online, these two women are sure to add sunshine to your day. Stop in at the boutique and join them on this journey to see what the future has in store for 2313 Glitter Ave. 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 15

Exploring Everest By Art Salisbury S ir Edmund Hillary was quoted Karim Mella, a highly decorated south climbing season, porters as saying, “People do not veteran who spent most of his were observed carrying two to decide to become extraordinary. tenure as a Special Forces non- three times their body weight: bed They decide to accomplish commissioned officer. Immigrating frames, mattresses, turf carpeting, extraordinary things.” On March to the United States from the car batteries and anything and 13, an international group of Dominican Republic and beginning everything you could think of six trekkers with KM Excelsior his military service in the U.S. that would be needed to allow the Consulting out of Tampa, Florida, Army May 1992, Mella retired in late EBC to function. Leaving Lukla at along with their extremely 2022 after serving a very decorated elevation 9,383 ft., our team’s first experienced Sherpa Guide, 30 years of service. A very destination was Phadking, a small Mingma Sherpa — with 16 Mt. experienced hiker, he was the first village in the Khumbu region of Everest summits — from the highly Dominican to summit Mt. Everest. Nepal, sitting at 8,563 ft. reputable Xtreme Climbers Treks and Expeditions out of Kathmandu, Pride in his home country led this Day one was the easiest for Nepal, set out to accomplish adventurer to begin foundations our team, trekking a generally something extraordinary: walk for underprivileged Dominican downhill route and covering 50+ miles over eight days, starting children and organize treks and “only” approximately five miles at the famous “world’s most expeditions, such as this EBC ‘23! in about three hours. On the dangerous airport” in Lukla, In planning this trip, Mella invited second day, our group hiked to the Nepal, at an altitude of 9,383 feet coworker LTC (R) George Nichols famous village of Namche Bazaar, and ending at the entrance to Mt. and his wife Renee; brother, Army where we spent two nights to suit Everest’s Base Camp at an altitude SPC Vincent Nichols; friend and acclimatization better. This small of 17,598 feet. Comprising the prominent DR female triathlete, but lively village sits at 11,483 ft. team were two women — one a trekker and successful business and bustles with European-style military spouse — and four men, owner, Sandra Cabrera, who bakeries, a few bars and taverns, all U.S. Army veterans, with ties to became the first female from the lodges and gear and souvenir Fort Bragg. With the addition of Dominican Republic to complete shops. Day three consisted of the guide to round out the seven- this trek; and, also me to join him. trekking up to an altitude of 13,000 person group, this trek and team ft. to one of the world’s highest- became known as EBC ’23! During this trek, as the actual placed hotels — it was listed in the Everest Base Camp was buzzing Guinness Book of World Records Organizing our trip was CSM (R) with activity preparing for the 2023 as the highest in 2004 — Hotel Art Salisbury began his military career in August of 1985 as a combat engineer. He retired in January 2007, spending most of his time at Fort Bragg, initially as a reclassified preventive medicine specialist in 1991, then as a reclassified U.S. Army Special Forces medical sergeant. He is currently working as a consultant while additionally completing a doctorate with Liberty University. 16 | J U N E 2 0 2 3

Everest. The team enjoyed a Also on the course were porters, deserving husband and wife kiss 360-degree view of the spectacular yaks, mules with horses. All celebrating their longest trek off scenery special to the Himalayan trekkers gave way and priority to a motorcycle ever! The team then mountains, including the famous these Nepalese transports as we quickly headed back to Gorekshep, Mt. Everest. On the fourth day, would give semi-trailer trucks way spending the night only to awaken the group departed the luxury of on one of our busy interstates. to a snowing, balmy 3-degree Namche and headed to our next EBC ’23 reached Lobuche and Fahrenheit morning. The frigid destination, Deboche, at 12,533 ft. found the view from this small temps caused the closure of the With temperatures dropping as a village sitting at 16,210 ft. to be Gorakshep helipad, causing us to snow front moved in, and before just slightly more stunning than spend day nine trekking eight miles reaching the comforts of our next the last stop. Our crew ate, rested into a sideways snowing headwind tea house and sleeping quarters, and prepared for the challenges to the village of Pheriche. It our team stopped in Tengboche’s on day eight: trekking up to deserves mentioning that this Thyangboche Monastery, or Gorakshep, which at 16,942 ft. is route brought us again through Dawa Choling Gompa, a Tibetan the highest inhabited village in the memorial grounds of those Buddhist monastery. Day five the world. Once again, our leaders who would forever become part of brought a bit more challenging assessed the team before heading Mt. Everest. Those memorialized trek as EBC ‘23 slowly increased out from Lobuche. The diagnosis: include experienced guides Rob altitude, crossing over the famous Energy and excitement levels Hall and Scott Fisher — names expansion bridges hanging over were high, with no signs of AMS. you may recognize from the movie roaring glacier-watered rivers. The group stopped for lunch and Everest — who lost their lives in the To say this was uncomfortable for tea in Gorakshep before setting 1996 tragedy, and the Sherpas and team members bothered by heights out for the famous rock and EBC climbers who died during the 2014 and the swaying bridges is an gatekeeper at approximately 17,598 avalanche and 2015 earthquake that understatement. ft. The trail was busy with trekkers triggered the avalanche heading to and from the rock as that followed. Moving on, our next stop was the we wanted to beat the snow front village of Dingboche, sitting at housing the 11+ mile rock and dirt- EBC ’23 was a success in many 14,470 ft. We again spent two nights covered Khumba glacier that we ways for our group, with endless here to acclimate and prepare for spotted coming up the valley. memories to share with family and higher elevations. After enjoying friends. As a Chinese proverb goes, the comforts of the local Café Upon arrival, our team celebrated “The person who says it cannot 4410 with its delicious coffee, hot the accomplishment of reaching be done should not interrupt the chocolate and food menu, we the shared goal. Pictures were person doing it.” Our team set out awakened on day six refreshed. taken, high fives and hugs shared to walk to Everest Base Camp and Our fearless leader Mella and guide and even the group’s married make it home. We got it done and checked on each team member to couple — the Nichols — shared a parted asking: What’s next? ensure no one was experiencing acute mountain sickness, better 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 17 known as altitude sickness. Everyone was doing great, which meant only one thing; we would have to trek up another Himalayan “hill” to a higher elevation in the brisk, cold breeze this day offered! The team reached a height slightly over 16,000 ft., where we stopped for water and shared a few stories before heading back down to the awaiting tea house for the typical lemon and ginger tea and then over to Café 4410. Day seven came quickly as our team rejoined friends we made along the route on a similar schedule but a different trekking pace and accommodation plan.

Thrifting in Fayetteville The Ultimate Guide for Eco-Conscious Shoppers By Allison Davis T he world of fashion is vast and ever-changing, Another great option for thrift shopping in Fayetteville but so is our understanding of its environmental is the New Life Thrift Store. This nonprofit store impact. As we learn more about the strain the textiles donates to multiple local initiatives and has a wide industry has on our planet, more people are turning range of clothing, furniture and household items to sustainable alternatives. For those in Fayetteville, at affordable prices. Located at 101 S. Reilly Rd, the North Carolina, you are in luck. This city has a vast store is well-organized and has a friendly, welcoming array of second-hand stores and estate sales full of atmosphere. surprises, with finds extending past just the closet. Habitat for Humanity Restore is a unique store that One of the most notable thrift stores in Fayetteville offers great deals on home improvement items while is Helping the Orphans. Whether I am shopping or supporting a good cause. Suppose you're looking donating, this is always my first stop. This store is run for a way to update your home without breaking by a nonprofit organization that supports orphans the bank or want to donate or recycle gently used in Kenya. Not only can you find great bargains on furniture, appliances, home décor, building materials clothing, furniture and household items, but you can also feel good about supporting a good cause. They currently have three locations in the area: 2805 Bragg Blvd; 1027 Pamalee Dr.; and 1183 N Bragg Blvd, Spring Lake. A new location is coming soon to 401 Hope Mills Road. Allison Davis is the wellness manager at Apple Crate Naturals. Working in the natural industry for 11 years, she loves bringing the newest and best products to Fayetteville. 18 | J U N E 2 0 2 3

and much more. In that case, Habitat for Humanity stores. Such sales are typically held when someone ReStore is worth a visit. The proceeds from the store passes away or moves out of a home and wants to sell go towards funding Habitat for Humanity's mission all their possessions. These sales can be a treasure of building and repairing homes for families in need. trove for thrift shoppers, with a wide range of items The ReStore concept began in 1991 as a way for Habitat available at deeply discounted prices. Some items you for Humanity to raise funds while diverting reusable can find at estate sales include antiques, collectibles, materials from landfills. furniture, artwork, jewelry and more. Every sale is different, and the things available can vary widely Feeling Industrious? Next, we head over to the Re- depending on the interests and tastes of the previous Store Warehouse at 205 Forsythe St. This has to be owners. This can make estate sales a fun and exciting Fayetteville's biggest treasure chest filled with items way to discover new items and add to your collection. to renovate your house from floor to ceiling. With You can also check websites like estatesales.net or everything from cabinets, windows, doors, plumbing estatesales.org to find sales in your area. It's a good fixtures, paint supplies and even a great selection of idea to arrive early at an estate sale to get the best gently loved furniture, you will surely find something selection of items, as popular sales can draw a crowd. to spark some DIY inspiration. Re-Store Warehouse is the brainchild of Rusty Long, a former executive Environmental Benefits of Thrifting director at Fayetteville Urban Ministry. Since its opening, it has generated and donated over one million The environmental benefits of thrifting are substantial. dollars to local charities. When you purchase a second-hand item, you are extending the life of that item and reducing the need Estate sales are a great way to find unique and to produce new goods. This, in turn, reduces the interesting items at a fraction of their retail cost. demand for resources like water and fossil fuels used Fayetteville has residents from all over the world; you in manufacturing. never know what eclectic things may pop up. Whether you're a collector or a bargain hunter, or just looking • Reduced textile waste: The textile industry is one for something different, estate sales offer a unique of the largest contributors to landfill waste. By shopping experience you won't find at traditional retail buying second-hand, you're reducing the demand for new items and helping to decrease the amount of waste generated. • Lowered carbon footprint: The production and transportation of new clothing items contribute significantly to global CO2 emissions. When you thrift, you decrease the need for these processes and lower your overall carbon footprint. • Water conservation: It takes approximately 712 gallons of water to produce one t-shirt. Thrifting helps conserve this vital resource. • Chemical pollution reduction: The fashion industry often uses harmful dyes and chemicals. These can contaminate water sources when they're produced or washed. Buying second-hand reduces the need for such processes, leading to less pollution. The next time you need to update your wardrobe or kitchen, consider heading to one of these Fayetteville second-hand stores. Not only will you be able to find unique and affordable pieces, but you'll also be doing your part to help the environment and support your community. Remember, every item bought second- hand is a step towards a more sustainable future. Scan the QR code to discover a comprehensive list of places to thrift in Cumberland County. Happy thrifting! 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 19

The Cold and the Beautiful: Beneficial Cryotherapy By Dinah Goodman Photo Credit: Cel @ Style to Bits When we think about cold therapy, cryotherapy was initially invented uses freshly oxygenated cool air to images of senior citizens jumping for people with rheumatoid fill the chamber without the risk of into subzero water in some remote arthritis. Developed by a Japanese exposure to harmful gas. area of Alaska populate our minds. rheumatologist, the regime The Polar Bear Club had the right involves standing in a chamber This is how it works. \"You step into idea. Do you want something new filled with nitrogen oxide at a the fully enclosed cryotherapy and exciting that is so cool it will temperature of minus 110 to minus chamber and are immediately have you wearing shades and 140 degrees Celsius for up to three exposed to these subzero shivering your way to wellness? Are minutes. Cryotherapy chambers temperatures, which elicits the you searching for a way to enhance are also electric, using carbon body's natural fight or flight or replace the same old relaxation dioxide. response,\" said Spencer. \"This methods like yoga, meditation or sends blood to your core and deep breathing exercises? Well, It sounds like oxygenated blood to all body parts.\" have no fear because cryotherapy something out of a is here! Cryotherapy is the latest sci-fi movie, but it's I experienced this for myself. trend in the wellness world, and it's real, and the benefits When my husband and I decided taking the world by storm. Shiver are mind-blowing. to try it together, we walked into me, timbers! the chamber and immediately The newest technology, electric felt excited — and anxious — Not only has the popularity cryochambers are said to be from being surrounded by this of cryotherapy exploded, but safer and more effective because level of cold. As we watched the celebrities, athletes, and everyone they target the central nervous clock count down, our minds is hopping on the bandwagon for system and are ideal for therapy. raced. Would we survive? Of good reason. Deciding to try it According to CryoBuilt (2023), the course, we were energized upon myself to see what the fuss was all most obvious difference between exiting the chamber. Spencer about, the treatment left me feeling the two is that electric cryotherapy and the Renaissance staff were invigorated, youthful, full of energy there to supervise and share our and ready to conquer the world. experience. Are you willing to get cold to better your health? Why did it feel so good? According to Spencer, \"After exiting the What exactly is cryotherapy, and chamber, your blood vessels dilate why is the cold so cool? and rush oxygen and endorphins Cryotherapy, short for cryogenic back through your body. To warm therapy, is an unconventional itself back to equilibrium, the body therapy or treatment that undergoes a metabolic reaction uses freezing or near-freezing that can burn up to 500 calories in temperatures. We are talking the hours following the treatment.\" temperatures between -140 and -170 degrees and colder. Talk Friends with frigid benefits about a cold front! Natalie Spencer Cryotherapy has become popular of Renaissance Day Spa and as an incredibly effective way to Alternative Wellness explained that reduce inflammation and speed Dinah Goodman is a fitness professional and the owner of Boone Trail Fit Body Boot Camp. She is a nutritionist, advanced personal trainer, group exercise instructor, former bodybuilder and powerlifter. 20 | J U N E 2 0 2 3

up the recovery process after minutes. You will feel relaxed and full cryotherapy services. Spencer an intense workout because the refreshed in no time. stated, \"I expanded wellness extreme cold helps to constrict to include service options for blood vessels, which reduces The cold also helps skin conditions clientele to aid in recovery; it swelling and inflammation in like eczema, atopic dermatitis, helps with pain management.\" the muscles. Plus, rapid cooling rosacea, acne and even aging skin. Renaissance provides whole- stimulates the production of I decided to try the cryofacial body cryotherapy and isolated endorphins, the body's natural because I have melasma, a services, which includes knee and painkillers. This fact means that condition that reddened my elbow therapy. In less than three not only will you recover faster cheeks. I was pleasantly surprised minutes, relief can be experienced, from your workout, but you'll also that the redness all but faded. less time than an icepack! feel great while doing it. Renaissance Day Spa and Finally, let's not forget the most Alternative Wellness has an \"Cryotherapy is also part of the important benefit: cryotherapy amazing cryochamber and recovery regiment,\" said Spencer. is fun. It's like a thrill ride at an provides cryofacial treatments \"Now high-performance athletes, amusement park without long and Cryoskin for non-invasive sports wellness professionals and lines or overpriced tickets. Who body contouring. No need to go regular people like us use it.\" wouldn't want to step into a under the knife when you can get chamber that looks like it belongs contoured and renewed using Another surprising benefit of on a sci-fi movie set and come cryotherapy — a cool option. cryotherapy is that it can boost out feeling like a superhero? Plus, In conclusion, cryotherapy your metabolism, help you burn fat you'll have plenty of bragging may be the coolest way to chill and lose weight. When you expose rights to share with your friends out, but it's also an incredibly your body to extreme cold, it has to and family. \"Oh, you went bungee effective — and fun — form of work harder to stay warm, so your jumping? That's cute. I froze my therapy and a wellness tool worth metabolism kicks into high gear. butt off in a chamber colder than trying. If you're looking for a new As we learned earlier, studies have Antarctica.\" way to spice up your wellness shown that a single cryotherapy routine, grab your parka and try session can burn up to a whopping How to join the cool kids cryotherapy. It may be the coolest 500 calories. Renaissance Day Spa and thing you've ever done! Alternative Wellness is the only But wait, there's more! place in Fayetteville to provide 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 21 Cryotherapy has also been shown to improve your mood and reduce stress levels. The endorphins released are natural painkillers and mood boosters, assisting with anxiety and depression. Plus, the treatment's short duration means it's an easy and convenient way to squeeze some relaxation into your busy schedule — no need to book a weekend retreat or spend hours meditating. Just hop in the chamber and chill out for a few

Happy 4-Year Anniversary!! Come Workout and Celebrate with us!! the week of 12 - 16 June Prizes LIVE DJ FOOD! CLASSES FOR SENIORS ALSO AVAILABLE !! WUONIRQKUOEUTS!! 28 DAYS FOR $67 Come try us out for a FOR ALL NEW CLIENTS free week!! no strings attached!! 3039 Boone Trail Ext. Suite 100 Fayetteville, NC 28304 910-889-1155 https://boonetrailfitbodybootcamp.com/Fitness www.facebook.com/FitBodyBooneTrail/ 22 | J U N E 2 0 2 3

Are You Stuck Getting stuck with the people you love on a hot in a Rut? afternoon in the Caymans is one thing. It's another thing to get stuck spiritually, to form a habit or By Lynne Smith pattern of incorrect thinking, especially in your walk with God. S ummer vacations invite exploration, and who doesn't love to explore? According to Webster's Romans 12:2 reads, \"Don't copy the behavior and dictionary, \"explore\" is defined as traveling in customs of this world but let God transform you or through an unfamiliar place to learn more about into a new person by changing the way you think. it. Whether it's the excitement of the unknown or Then you will know what God wants you to do, and the thrill of learning something new, from young to you will know how good and pleasing and perfect old, we all enjoy taking risks now and then. His will really is.\" Such was the case years ago when our young family ventured to the Cayman Islands. Renting a Jeep for In a world full of blurred lines, it's easy to get stuck the week, we decided to go off the beaten path with in thinking the way the world does, and once we get our two young boys. At some point, we ignored the into that rut, it isn't easy to get out. But the Bible road signs — those warnings meant for our safety — teaches us not to become so comfortable with our and found our paved road turning into a dirt road. culture, which is usually self-centered, that we fit It was then that it happened. Our Jeep got stuck in without even thinking; rather, we are challenged in a rut, quickly ending our explorations. Thank to let God's Word teach us to think differently. goodness God brought us out of that rut — that Not an easy task considering we are influenced by deep track made by the repeated passage of those others defining truth for us everywhere we turn. It who had made the same wrong choice. But what takes a deliberate, hard turn to align our thinking about the ruts in life that get us stuck spiritually? with God's truth. But when we do so, we discover I remember reading a road sign that said, \"Be that God loves us so much, He will never leave us careful the rut you choose because you will remain circling in deeply rutted paths of untruth. in that rut for the next 25 miles.\" In other words, be careful with your choices. Committing to studying the Bible is not a task to be taken lightly. But attempting to navigate through life with no direction, signs or moral or spiritual boundaries to ensure we stay on the right path will land you in a pothole. When we study the Bible, we get to know the character of God, how He thinks, His nature, His attributes and His desires for our life and humanity. Looking at life through the Bible's lens changes how we look at everything in this life. Understanding what God loves and what God hates, grasping His holiness and believing in His sovereignty over all peoples and nations throughout all time invites a new perspective. When we trust in God as the ultimate authority in our lives, His thoughts gradually become ours. We may still be in the rut of unmovable circumstances, but our wrong thinking does not have to remain in that rut. God invites us into a way of right thinking. What well-worn path of your own making are you spinning your wheels in today? Lynne Smith is a Fayetteville native who worships with her family at Snyder Memorial Baptist Church. She has a hard-working husband of 38 years, two sons who aim to be just like their dad, two God-given beautiful daughters and three well-loved grandchildren. 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 23

Shop with Savvy This Wedding Season A Staff Report S hopping for the perfect dress or outfit is crucial • Factor in alterations. Alterations can be costly, to a wedding or special event. But like many so double-check policies in advance. Some purchases with a big price tag — and high stakes dress shops offer alterations for a flat fee or cap — a lot can go wrong. Buying an event outfit can come expenses at a certain amount. with unexpected expenses, delayed orders, surprise policies and unwanted stress before a big event. • Don't pay 100% upfront when buying a wedding The following information from the BBB of Eastern dress. Most salons ask for a deposit of about 50% Carolinas (BBB) can help you choose what to wear on of the dress price for expensive gowns. You should your special day. not be pressured into paying the entire cost of a • Start shopping early. Experts recommend buying wedding dress upfront. This will generally be less of an issue, depending on where you find a dress. a wedding dress six to nine months before the big day. You don't need as much time for a gala, ball or • Check the cancellation policy. Always check a another special occasion, but experts recommend store's policy for your specific order. Each contract starting a few months ahead. is different, and custom orders may have a strict Delivery and alterations can take time, and spring cancellation policy. is a busy season for seamstresses. The more time you have, the more you can compare shops and the • Be clear about your schedule. Brides have less rushed and stressed you'd feel. complained to BBB that their dresses arrived too • Be clear about your budget. Be upfront so your late for alterations. Be very clear about schedules salesperson shows you outfits in your price range. and leave extra time to resolve any issues. You don't want to fall in love with a dress only to find it's way over your budget. • Take your dress home. Promptly pick up your 24 | J U N E 2 0 2 3 outfit after your alterations are finished. You can't control what happens at the store where you

found a wedding dress — it might even go out of • Beware of counterfeit items. Authorized retailers business — so the safest place for your clothing is are the only stores allowed to sell designer gowns. at your home or where you will be dressing on the Anyone else claiming to carry them is likely big day. selling counterfeits. Many dress designers do not sell their gowns online at all. • Want to rent? Do your homework: Renting a dress is an increasingly popular option for special • Shopping for a deal? Be realistic: As much as a events. Be sure to start early because popular budget-conscious bride or party-goer may want styles and sizes will sell out. Also, check BBB.org to find a $5,000 dress for $350, it will probably not before committing to a specific company. happen. Many designers don't allow their dresses to be discounted below a certain margin. An in- • Check BBB. Research dress shops on www.BBB. person sample sale, not online, may be a bride's org before making a purchase. best bet for finding a discounted gown. What to look for when buying online • Double check delivery promises. It's vital that your dress arrives on time, so be sure the seller Some online sellers offer gowns that look like clearly states its typical delivery times. designer dresses for a fraction of the price. Buyers expect these dresses to be low-cost replicas, but • Understand the return policy. Review the BBB often hears that the dresses that arrive need to guarantee, return and refund policies before be more fitting and constructed from better-quality purchasing. Know if there is a way to return materials. If you’ve decided to buy a wedding dress or your dress — and how much it will cost — if you special event dress online, keep the following tips are not happy with it. Make sure there's a way to in mind. contact the company where you find the dress you are looking for in case of problems. A website without contact information is a big red flag when shopping online. • Be wary of overseas sellers. Buying wedding dresses or gala dresses from an international seller may seem like a good deal. However, U.S. laws and consumer protections will be difficult, if not impossible, to enforce. Read BBB tips for shopping online: Although a wedding or special event dress may be an extra special purchase, much of the general advice for shopping online applies here, too. For more information, check out BBB's wedding resource page for more tips, BBB's consumer HQ for more consumer tips and resources and to learn more about BBB, visit www.BBB.org. About BBB of Eastern Carolinas Better Business Bureau serving Eastern Carolinas is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit corporation serving 48 counties in North and South Carolina. The organization is funded primarily by BBB Accredited Business fees from over 5,200 local businesses and professional firms. BBB promotes integrity, consumer confidence and business ethics through business self-regulation in the local marketplace. Services provided by BBB include reports on companies and charitable organizations, general monitoring of advertising in the marketplace, consumer/business education programs and dispute resolution services. All services are provided at no cost to the public, with the occasional exception of mediation and arbitration. Visit www.BBB.org. 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 25

Explore the Night Skies This June — Or Any Time! By Ken Brandt Since the earliest of times, people have been you are out at night, find a stationary object, like a fascinated by the night sky. All civilizations looked telephone pole, a street sign or a recognizable tree. for patterns in the stars, but the Greeks gave us the For example, our mailbox is directly in front of us constellations we know best: Orion, Pegasus and when our back is to the house. Once you have found Gemini. What will you see when you go out at night north, and are facing it, stretch your arms out to and look up into the sky? It depends on where you your side. Your left hand is to the west, your right are, what time of night you go out and what time hand is to the east, and your back is to the south. of year it is. This article assumes you are in the Sandhills of North Carolina in June at approximately Now that you have found a clearing where you can 9:30 p.m. EDST. see most of the sky and know which way is north, go out in the daytime and clear away any debris If you live in an area with many street lights, you (lawn tools, dog toys, etc.) that might hurt if you may have to drive to someplace where you can trip over them in the dark. If there are ant mounds see the sky clearly. If you don’t want to leave your nearby, choose another spot. Having a lawn chair home, you can always shield the lights with your or something else to get comfortable with is ideal. hand. In addition, it will help to know which way is Remember to be safe out there, and don’t forget the north. To figure that out without a compass, go out mosquito repellant. during the day and stand where you plan to watch the night sky. The best time for this is 1:00 pm. Turn Go out a little before 9:30 and allow your eyes to so your shadow is directly in front of you. Now you adjust for darkness. The iris, which dilates your are facing north. To remember where that is when pupil, generally takes 10 minutes for your eyes to Robeson Planetarium and Science Center Director Ken Brandt contributed this article. He is a Solar System and NC Space Grant Ambassador as a volunteer for NASA and an online college astronomy instructor. He and his wife Lorrie, a regular WVM contributor, have three daughters and two grandchildren. 26 | J U N E 2 0 2 3

adapt. If you’re concerned about the weather, it Turning to the east, we see the Summer Triangle is a good idea to check out a clear sky clock. The just coming up over the eastern horizon. The Robeson Planetarium’s website, https://www. Summer Triangle looks just like its name. It is a robeson.k12.nc.us/o/robeson/page/robeson- large triangle that is easy to see. The three stars of planetarium, has one. Note the graphic below. the triangle, Altair, Vega and Deneb, will be visible for the remainder of the year. For our purposes, look at the top row, “cloud cover.” All of these things are visible to the naked eye. But In this graphic, blue is clear; white is cloudy. All if you want to see more detail, the best way is with a times are given as 24-hour (military) time notation. pair of binoculars, 7x or more. They are lightweight, In this example, the skies will be clear from 4:00 easily transported and will magnify enough that p.m. (16) until 11:00 p.m. (23). Credit: Earthsky.org you can see craters on the moon. If you want to go (used with permission) all out and get a telescope, get one with the largest diameter possible. It is not the telescope's length The most interesting thing happening in the sky this but the mirror's diameter inside that matters. month occurs June 21. On the night of the summer solstice, the two-day-old crescent moon pairs up As the Earth orbits the sun, the patterns of nicely with Venus and Mars in the western sky. The constellations change, so every month features a trio will be less than five degrees apart. Mars will new point of view. be the dimmest of the three but should be pinkish- orange in color. Venus and Mars gradually close in To learn more, visit the Robeson Planetarium in on each other in the western evening sky during all Lumberton, a Blue Star Museum. This means that of June. Immediately above Venus, looking like a cat all military, past, present or enlisting, and their jumping off a couch, is Leo the Lion. This pattern families are admitted free of charge. Or, mention of stars looks like a backward question mark, with this article, and your party will be permitted free the end closest to Venus and a triangle in the back. of charge. The planetarium will be open during the Regulus, one of the brightest stars in the sky, is a week beginning July 5 for groups of 10 or more to part of the constellation Leo. make reservations. Please call Joy Ivey at 910-671- 6000 x3381 to set up a day and time to visit us. Looking slightly north or west, to the right of Leo, you should see the Big Dipper, which forms a saucepan with a long handle if you connect the dots. In France, the Big Dipper is known as Le Casserole. If you draw a line between the two stars at the top edge of the “saucepan” and extend the line towards the northern horizon, you’ll intersect with Polaris or the North Star. Polaris will never win the title “brightest” in the sky. If you ranked stars from brightest to dimmest, Polaris is number 49 on that list. However, for at least as long as your grandchildren’s lifetime, the North Star will be the only one in the sky that never seems to move. 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 27

Counselor’s Corner with Donna Lewis the board before moving. Many online apps with chess games for people of all skill levels exist on Staying on Track over the Summer the market. Beginner levels even teach the game. If you go the real board route, I think it is fun to buy a board where the pieces are based on pop culture films and TV shows. My son and I played with a Harry Potter chess board. Card games good for memory skills include Concentration, where the child has to find matching pairs of cards that are turned over. The board game Operation requires patience and impulse control to avoid touching the edges of the sides as drawn pieces are surgically removed. In the immortal words of Alice Cooper, “School’s Working with others in groups without violence out for summer.” Several wonderful weeks of no is also an essential skill in the school setting. rushing out the door so you aren’t late, no waiting Building projects are great for this. Have some in the carpool line and no battles over homework. friends over to build a Lego project or assemble Paradise for all. However, it would also be nice a model. If you think this tip is only for younger for the teacher next year not to have to teach your kids, think again. Lego kits from popular films children everything again, starting with writing and books are fun for kids of any age. For online their names and how to sit in a chair. Today, I will options, Minecraft and Ages of Empires are give you some ideas to help your child maintain games where teams of people work together those vital learning skills. online to complete the game successfully. The first essential skill for school is attention and Math skills can be reinforced in a variety of impulse control. Many games kids can play alone ways. Students always have access to games or with friends force them to pay attention and where correct responses to math facts result in look at the information before responding. My some visual award, improve fluency and keep personal favorite is chess. Chess can be played math skills sharp. Many computer games are online or with a real board and a friend. To win available for less than $20 that help the student at chess, a person must take time and look at build a roller coaster part or city. They must plan budgets, lose money to natural disasters and consider all the factors that go into any project. Such games also reinforce critical thinking as they Donna Lewis is a school psychologist in Cumberland County. Married with one son, she is originally from Linden but now calls Lillington home. 28 | J U N E 2 0 2 3

learn to take time to consider all the mundane chapter book. Magazines and graphic novels, details that go into making an exciting ride. aka comic books, also encourage reading that doesn’t feel like schoolwork. As always, the best Social Studies, history and the sciences can way to get your children to read is for them be reinforced by watching documentaries and to see you reading. Set aside a time daily that science shows on the History Channel and other everyone in the house reads together or as a streaming services. At this point, you will be family watches educational shows. required to make sure what they are watching is educational. \"Keeping Up with the Kardashians\" Educational camps are also an option. was on The Learning Channel. Enough said. Summer camps and programs offered by local universities and colleges run the gamut of I highly encourage you to watch with your child science, cooking, crafts, theatre and the arts. and discuss. As I have expressed in previous Almost any hobby your child may have probably articles, children value nothing more than your has a camp or course for it. Take a class with time and attention. Discussions about what your child and learn something new — adult you learn from these shows let you share your brains benefit from the stimulation, too. life experiences with the topics discussed in an organic way that does not feel like a lecture. Finally, my beloved late mother was a physical Some of the shows I recommend are \"History education teacher at EE Miller and Warrenwood of Machines that Made America,\" \"History of elementary schools. She will come back and the Foods that Made America\" and any show haunt me if I do not mention the importance with Josh Gates presenting. These programs are of physical activity to learning. The fine motor entertaining and informative. skills used in sports are the same ones used to hold a pencil and write. Team sports reinforce the concepts of attention and cooperation needed for any group project. The self- discipline required to practice any football or soccer skill when you don’t feel like it is the same self-discipline necessary to get out of bed at zero dark-thirty and go to school every day and complete assignments that may be less than fascinating. Reading is by far the skills teachers want to I hope every child in Cumberland County has a reinforce over the summer. The public library offers a variety of book clubs for every age relaxing and fun summer. I hope parents get a group. Also, books from the library are free in book form and available for download to any break and can enjoy a less rigid schedule with electronic book or computer — one strategy I highly recommend is books on tape. Again, their children. Sneak in some learning, have fun as a family, you can listen to a book in the car or for a certain period every day. Discussions exploring new things and don’t forget to wear about what you have heard encourage short- and long-term memory for facts and reasoning sunscreen! 2 0 2 3 J U N E | 29 skills to guess what may happen next. This strategy is particularly effective for accessing more advanced books for a child who may lack reading fluency or be intimidated by a thick

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