Upcoming events and news about the sounding area of Rocky Mount North Carolina Eastern North Carolina, promoting the New Belmont Lake Community and Golf Club.

Step up your game with the Best Golf Gadgets

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golf gadgets

Hooked on Golf

Looking for the best golf gadgets that can improve your golf game? It’s a common belief that many people play golf, but it’s less common to understand the addicting nature. Almost all players can remember their first time playing, and for some, they might recollect a specific moment or situation that guaranteed them a lifelong love of clubs and balls. For most individuals who feel hooked from their first time on the course, it’s difficult to explain what exactly made them feel this way. They know they enjoy themselves, but the appeal behind their infatuation eludes even themselves.

To best understand why people become hooked, one should play for themselves and experience the range of emotions that go into playing rounds in all types of weather conditions.

For first-time players, it’s common to be nervous, excited, happy, sad, frustrated, or any combination of these feelings. These emotions are felt throughout the round and involve scenarios beyond one singular moment.

One might hit perfect drives down an empty fairway to make par on a course they’ve never seen before, only to come up short on a par five and bogey the hole. In essence, countless moments make golf as addicting as it is enticing.

To some degree, most players enjoy the game for what it is, playing with friends they feel comfortable around, trudging through cold rain, parsing out money to whoever hacked their ball into oblivion, and the camaraderie that comes with matching wits against some of the most challenging courses on earth.

It’s this combination of allure, beauty, and challenge that makes up golf. The course can be as daunting as inviting; one might play by themselves or others; there are countless variables to consider and adapt to.

Ultimately, it’s a competition where the best player will always win. These nuances form the basis for what makes golf as addicting as it is, hence, why many people can’t put their clubs down and why others remain hooked after their first time on the course.

You are such a great golfer, but I still feel something is missing from your golf experience. Well, we here at TGWG may have found what you’ve been looking for: wonderfully weird and wacky (but also amazingly cool) gadgets and accessories to help you play golf like never.

Some of these gadgets may be out of your price range (or outside the price range of any normal human being), but others can even help you improve your game and save money simultaneously! So, pick a few that fit in your budget and show up to the 17th hole with some serious bragging rights.

So, there are so many choices and so many gadgets, but we’re going to start our list with something that’ll improve your entire golfing experience: a Bluetooth device that will give you real-time data about the distance and accuracy of your shots.

That’s right; it can even tell you how far ahead or behind you are from the hole. So, if your gadget-wielding opponent is playing a long-ball game on every hole and you want to keep up, it’s time for you to show off this nifty gadget!

The device will also let you track your distances and shot data. This information can be shared with your friends and family so they can see how far you hit your shots. Not only will this be great for bragging rights, but it’ll also help keep you motivated to practice your game so you can play better than ever before.

Another excellent benefit of the device is that it’s lightweight enough to wear on your wrist like a watch (or even attach it to your golf bag). Plus, maybe you were thinking about getting an extensive GPS for your home? This gadget might be a much cheaper and more convenient option.

Golf Gadgets

Carabiner Clip Golf Ball Retriever

If you need a way to retrieve that stray ball that flew into the lake or got stuck in a tree, this is the gadget for you. Just attach it to your golf bag and when your ball goes astray, locate it with the remote control and fetch!

Of course, if you’re playing in a casual round of golf, then you probably won’t need this gadget. But we couldn’t resist including it on our list of cool gadgets for the game of golf.

Remote Controlled Electric Golf Carts

If you think this gadget is just a way to avoid walking and carrying your clubs while playing 18 holes, think again! You can use these carts to give yourself an extra push when your legs are feeling exhausted. Or, if you’re playing in a tournament, you might consider using one to give yourself an unfair advantage over your competitors. Just make sure you don’t violate any golfing rules when using this gadget!

Golf Ball Scrambler

At first glance, this invention looks like something out of The Twilight Zone. But it’s just a more exciting way of picking up your golf balls and reloading them into your ball retriever. Instead of just putting them back in the bag, you can shoot them up to 100 feet away!

Remote Golf Club

This is a must-have gadget for any Angry Birds fan (and player). Just like that addictive phone app, you can use this gadget to hit a golf ball from the golf tee into the cup in one smooth motion!

There’s even a remote-control version that will work at up to 400 feet away, which probably isn’t allowed in any real-world tournaments, but it sure is fun.

Golf Ball Mower

This fantastic device is for anyone who constantly ends up with holes in their yard from errant golf shots. Using remote control technology, you can drive this little mower around your yard to repair the damage before your neighbors even notice it happened!

Golf Ball Cannon

Forget shotguns or rifles–if you want to shoot a ball far, you need the power of physics! And with this cannon-like device, you can launch your golf ball 300 feet away, which is probably enough to clear most water hazards.

Cool Golf Gear Alert:

The Phantom 2, from Bushnell, provides GPS data for over 38,00 golf courses around the globe. Pocket size unit that is small and lightweight. A must for golfers to play with confidence in their choices and retails for around $129.00.

When it comes right down to it, all these gadgets are designed for one purpose: to improve your golf game and give yourself an unfair advantage over your competition. Whether you’re out playing a casual round with friends or dreaming up ways to win the Masters, these cool gadgets will help you get one step closer to your dream of golfing greatness!

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Rocky Mount NC History

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Rocky Mount NC History

Rocky Mount NC History can been seen throught the city. The Rocky Mount Mill’s architecture showcases the strength and innovation of early mill workers through its graceful large brick arches and window openings. It tells a story of solid backs and stronger minds who crafted a community out of wild swampland. The historic landmark is home to R.J. Rockers Brewing Company and Rocky Mount Mills, an apartment complex. From its humble beginning as a small cluster of tobacco farms in the early 1800s, Rocky Mount has evolved into one of North Carolina’s livability cities and home to many historical landmarks.

Rocky Mount, North Carolina, has a rich history. One such landmark is Rocky Mount Mills, which was built in 1813 and showcases the strength and innovation of early mill workers through its graceful large brick arches and window openings.

Just a few miles south on Main Street is another historic landmark, the Rocky Mount Mills Village, which was built in the style of an “agrarian utopia.” The village contains a store and post office commission house and restored to its original appearance. It offers visitors a glimpse into early mill life and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Another part of Rocky Mount NC history is the Rocky Mount Fair, which has been in existence since 1854. The Rocky Mount area fairgrounds are located on the south end of town and can be used for multiple purposes. One of these was hosting a 5k during the annual Fair Week in October.

Rocky Mount North Carolina, also known as the “City of Medicine” due to it having five hospitals, has a rich history that can be seen throughout the city. One historical landmark is Rocky Mount Mills, built-in 1813, and tells the story of solid backs and stronger minds who crafted a community out of wild swampland.

Another historical landmark in Rocky Mount, NC, is the Rocky Mount Mills Village which was built in an “agrarian utopia” by mill workers who wished to have a community for themselves when the workday ended. The village contains a store and post office commission house restored to its original appearance.

According to local tradition, the name of Rocky Mount is derived from a nearby cliff of rock named “Rocky Mount,” which rises to the north of the city. The name was first used for a village near the intersection of two Indian trading paths. One of the paths ran from north-south and was part of the Great Indian Warpath or Great Trading Path; the other ran east-west along the Peedee River. The village was first known as “Rocky Mount,” whence its name is derived; however, in 1831, the town adopted the name “Rocky Mount Mills” because of the establishment of a sawmill (the Rocky Mount Mill) that was located there.

Rocky Mount, North Carolina, has a rich history evident throughout the city. One historical landmark, Rocky Mount Mills, was built in 1813.

Abandoned & Little-Known Airfields:

North Carolina – Southern Virginia area, the 1930s

Rocky Mount had an essential impact on the development of aviator Charles Lindbergh. During his senior year in high school, he took a summer job with the Byrd Expedition, sponsored by brothers Richard E. Byrd, a famous explorer, and Harry F. Byrd Jr., who was then publisher of the “News-Argus” in nearby Goldsboro.

The expedition’s plane disappeared as it flew over the area, and Lindbergh volunteered to search for it on foot. He later wrote: “I knew every river and ridge and road and farmhouse between there and Norfolk.” As a result of his experiences, Lindbergh decided to become an aviator. He took lessons at the Wright Flying School in Dayton, Ohio, and flew solo for the first time on April 6, 1926. When he returned to North Carolina in 1927 to visit friends at The University of North Carolina’s School of Public Health, he took his first ride in an airplane from Rocky Mount.

Built during the early 1920s as a commercial airport, this stopover on one of the busiest airmail and passenger routes in the country was home to Eastern Air Transport and other carriers. In 1928 it was bought by Curtiss-Wright, which used it as its East Coast headquarters and a training facility for pilots, mechanics, and other personnel.

In the early 1930s, a new administration building was constructed at $75,000. It contained offices, classrooms, and an auditorium that was put to good use hosting civic meetings, dances, and concerts. In 1941 Curtiss-Wright’s contract was canceled because America entered into World War II, but the Army Air Forces immediately took over the facility to train cadets. More than 1,000 pilots a month were trained in Link trainers at one time.

Rocky Mount Mills

After the war, it became a public airport and still serves that function today, managed by Wayne County. Curtiss-Wright’s administration building is now the headquarters of Lee County Mosquito Control, and portions are used as a senior citizen center.

Rocky Mount Mills was incorporated as a town in 1831, then as a city in 1889. In 1911 Rocky Mount became an independent city and remains so today.

In 1901, the Rocky Mount Mills was purchased by the American Tobacco Company due to its expansion into a cigar and smoking tobacco manufacturing. In 1905, construction began on a new two-million-dollar plant to replace the original mill. The historic plant is now owned by Vector Group (the successor company to American Tobacco) and continues to manufacture cigarettes today.

Rocky Mount Mills was the site of a significant strike and organizing effort by the Amalgamated Association of Tobacco Workers in 1900. This effort failed, and laborers returned to their jobs at reduced wages.

In 1902, Rocky Mount became the newly formed Consolidated Cigar Corporation headquarters, and in 1916, the company built a new factory on West Nash Street to outgrew the Rocky Mount Mills facility. The West Nash plant ceased operation in 1980.

In 1907, Thomas Edison selected Rocky Mount to be the site of one of his first power plants, a hydroelectric dam located below the Tar River falls on the outskirts of town. Rocky Mount was chosen for its water supply and proximity to the coalfields, which were needed as a fuel source for making steam. In January 1908, construction began on this dam, which provided electricity to Rocky Mount and too much of northeastern North Carolina. This plant is still in operation today, with a capacity of 22,500 kilowatts.

During the 1920s, Rocky Mount became known as “Little Hollywood” because of its connections with movie stars and production companies. The town housed several silent film studios, including the Mayflower Photoplay Company, which produced the regional hit “The Land Beyond the Sunset.” Actors such as Mary Pickford and Rudolph Valentino stayed at local hotels between filming. In 1927, “The New Klondike,” one of the first sound films made in America, was shot on location here.

Rocky Mount NC History

Rocky Mount also served as a backdrop for several motion pictures, including 20th Century Fox’s “Sergeant York” with Gary Cooper and Walter Brennan in 1941, starring Cooper as Alvin C. York. In 1942, the town was chosen as one of the primary locations for “The Shepherd of the Hills,” a film adaptation by Samuel Goldwyn Productions of the famous novel written by Harold Bell Wright.

Residents adorned their barns with authentic “Shepherd” lettering in anticipation of Hollywood stars Robert Young and Helen Hayes, who arrived in town only to be turned away at the train station because no one recognized them. The next day, however, they enjoyed a grand tour of the area with local dignitaries, after which they returned to Hollywood by train, never realizing that Rocky Mount had felt snubbed.

In 1973, the movie “Ode to Billy Joe,” a popular film with Roberta Flack’s hit song of the same name, used downtown Rocky Mount as a backdrop for many scenes.

In 1974, Universal Pictures filmed Miss Jane Pittman starring Cicely Tyson in Rocky Mount. Tyson was nominated for an Academy Award for her portrayal of Pittman, who grew up under the harsh conditions of slavery, survived emancipation only to face more hardship through the Jim Crow era, and lived to see women receive the right to vote. Scenes were shot at Old Main on the campus of what was then known as Nash Community College (now Nash Community College in Rocky Mount. The building was renamed Tyson Hall in 2012).

Rocky Mount has become a popular shooting location for Hollywood filmmakers because its downtown looks like another era. Many scenes from “The Color Purple,” starring Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg, were shot here, as were scenes from the movies “Miss Jane Pittman,” “The Apostle,” and “Nights in Rodanthe.” The downtown area has been used as a backdrop for several network television shows, including “Diff’rent Strokes” and “Dawson’s Creek.”

Tyson Hall at Nash Community College.

Old Main at Nash Community College.

Cameo Theatre on Main Street.

Rocky Mount NC History

The Rocky Mount Parks and Recreation system manages more than 100 parks, athletic fields, greenways, conservation areas, bike trails, historic sites, picnic pavilions, and playgrounds across the city. The Department also operates eight recreation centers within neighborhoods throughout the City of Rocky Mount.

Rocky Mount’s historic Cameo Theatre, the last “single-screen” theater in North Carolina, was built by local businessman W.F. Grant in 1929 and continues to operate as a first-run movie house today. The city has launched a revitalization campaign for this historic landmark.

In addition, several of Rocky Mount’s historic properties have been recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.

Rocky Mount is also home to the Rocky Mountaineer, a six-story building located in downtown Rocky Mount and containing 100,000 square feet of commercial space. The building was constructed in 2007 and opened for business on May 1. It is owned by Innovative Technology Partners, Inc., headquartered in Raleigh. The building is home to several blue-chip companies such as Sony, which leases over 50,000 square feet of space on the top floor.

Currently, Rocky Mount is undergoing a period of revitalization and development for its downtown area by expanding city services and developing the local arts community.

For more information about Rocky Mount’s history, check out www.visitrockymountnc.com.

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North Carolina famous food! Discover the unique flavors of North Carolina.

Is there any state in the United States more unique than North Carolina?

Uncovering North Carolina famous foods! From its checkered history to its fantastic culture, North Carolina stands out as one of the most memorable states in our union. Today, with an estimated population of over 10 million, North Carolina is the ninth-largest state in the U. S. and continues growth.

North Carolina cuisine has a lot of exciting dishes that are different from those typically eaten in other states. While many types of food can be found here, some uniquely North Carolina foods might surprise people unfamiliar with the state. Here is a list of several unique and iconic dishes and a few side items that make North Carolina cuisine exceptional. These are just some fantastic foods that can only be found in North Carolina.

Whether fried onion burgers or pimento cheese grits, you will indeed find something unique and different to enjoy!

BBQ

Iconic and unique foods in North Carolina

Barbecue 

A staple dish in North Carolina is a barbecue that uses different wood types of meats to smoke them. So, depending on where a person lives in the state, the type of barbecue they enjoy will change from an eastern style that uses a vinegar-based sauce to a western style that uses a thicker tomato and ketchup-based sauce.

Popular side dishes for barbecue include coleslaw, potato salad, beans, and sometimes cornbread.

In the state of North Carolina, barbecue is more than a dish – it is a way of life. Except those who self-identify as “barbecue purists,” most North Carolinians would agree that barbecue encompasses more than just pork.

It is common for North Carolinians to barbecue chicken, beef, shrimp, and other non-pork items. However, it is essential to note that North Carolina’s most popular barbecue dish is pork.

The Debate Between Whole Hog and Pulled Pork

Traditionally, North Carolina’s most popular barbecue dish is whole hog barbecue, though many believe pulled pork is more popular. In North Carolina, people frequently debate the difference between authentic hog barbecue and pulled pork.

There are significant differences between these two barbecue dishes. Typically, the whole hog is the more involved and challenging process, and this is why many people believe that pulled pork is now more popular than complete hog barbecue.

A whole hog barbecue can be defined as a hog that has been slow-cooked over an open flame while the meat is basted with a sauce. The result is tender, succulent meat that falls right off the bone.

Carolina bbq can be served either hot or cold, though traditionally served hot. The meat is placed on a plate and covered with coleslaw; the side dishes can vary, but a traditional North Carolina barbecue meal must include coleslaw.

In contrast, pulled pork is barbecued in chunks rather than as an entire hog, and the cooking process is done at a much faster rate. Thus, the meat does not fall off the bone as quickly because it has not been slow-cooked over an open flame.

The meat is generally shredded rather than cut into pieces, and it may or may not be served with a sauce. The bbq meat is often served on a sandwich, though it can also be a side dish.

North Carolina Famous Food

Central NC BBQ 

Lexington Barbecue, Lexington — www.lexbbq.com

Eastern NC BBQ

Bum’s Restaurant, Ayden — www.bumsrestaurant.net

Western NC BBQ

Buxton Hall Barbeque, Asheville — www.buxtonhall.com

Doughnuts 

People who don’t live in North Carolina might find this hard to believe, but one place people can get doughnuts here is at Krispy Kreme, which was started in North Carolina by Vernon Rudolph in 1937.

They still have locations throughout the state so that visitors can try their food here and support a local business. Another popular spot is Duck Donuts which serves gourmet doughnuts in various flavors and has locations in Carolina Beach, Wilmington, and Belhaven.

Cheerwine float 

This soft drink is only sold in North Carolina at the Cheerwine Bottling Company. It can be served plain or mixed with vanilla ice cream to make a float which some people think tastes like root beer though they’re different drinks. If you want to try this beverage, you’ll have to stop by one of these two places: Thomasboro, NC, where it’s bottled, and Salisbury, NC, where it’s based out of its headquarters.

Cheerwine Festival, Salisbury NC
Saturday, May 21, 2022 from 12:00 -10:00 p.m.

www.cheerwinefest.com

Chicken-fried steak 

This dish garners a lot of attention due to its name. It’s breaded beef steak deep-fried in oil. In addition to being served with white gravy, it can also be topped with salsa or chili beans and french fries on the side.

Pimento cheese grits

While cheese grits are famous around the south, pimento cheese is not, which seems unusual but tasty. After trying this dish, you might want to try it again because people get hooked on them and won’t stop talking about how delicious they are!

Hatteras style clam juice 

Another North Carolina staple that’s different from other places is clam juice, clam chowder, which can be made in various ways depending on where someone lives. One famous soup people like to eat here is Hatteras style clam chowder, which has clams, potatoes, onion, celery, and carrots mixed in with pepper and thyme. This dish can also be eaten during breakfast by using grits instead of potatoes as the base.

Livermush 

Many who don’t live in North Carolina haven’t heard of this dish of pork liver, salt, pepper, and other spices. It’s often served for breakfast and biscuits or eaten on a sandwich at lunchtime if someone prefers to eat it hot instead of cold. If you try this food, you’ll find that the taste is similar to spam but healthier for you!

Pepsi bbq chicken 

This type of barbecue has its roots in western North Carolina, where people like to eat chicken with coleslaw and french fries on top of it. It’s also common to see someone use lemon pepper instead of traditional salt and pepper in this area. Blend cola into their sauce to make it sweeter than normal barbecue sauce. One popular way people enjoy eating Pepsi bbq chicken is by pouring some onto French fries.

Appalachian Kilt 

Wilted fresh lettuce or leafy greens and spring onions combined with hot bacon grease and crispy bacon pieces.

Apple stack cake

Another unique thing about North Carolina cuisine is its cakes which can be sweet or savory, with one example being apple stack cake. This dish comprises layers of thinly sliced apples, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and streusel topping, often used to make muffins. Fruit cakes are also famous for special occasions such as weddings where people will bake them in molds with fruit inside!

Sonker

Appalachian tradition is sweet baked dessert.

Not as fussy as pie and juicier than cobbler. But the good news is they are just as effortless and delicious as they sound.

www.anchoredbakerymtairy.com

A variety of foods you can find when you live and travel through North Carolina definitely sets it apart from the rest of America, like grabbing a fresh Krispy Kreme and a Cheerwine float.

Enjoy!

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Tips for that winter golf game

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Tips for that winter golf game

Golf Anytime!

Winter is a great time for golf. Many people have the chance to play more often during this season, and it can be easier to get out on the course when it’s cold outside. While you can enjoy indoor golf all year long, other things make winter such an appealing time of year:

Reduced prices at some courses

Reduced rates of illness

You can play at any time without worrying about competition.

There are some things to be aware of when planning your winter golf game. So. check out a few key points that will help you during the season.

Protect Your Eyes From Snow And Wind

Snow and wind might not seem like they’re such a big deal, but they can cause problems if you don’t take the proper steps. Wearing protective eyewear will keep both snow and wind from making your eyes water or become irritated while you play.

Be Careful About Clothing

It’s often harder to stay dressed for golf when it’s cold outside than hot. If it’s too cold, your clothes might make you feel clammy and uncomfortable, or they can be challenging to move around in. You should wear layers that are easy to take off or put on as needed for additional warmth.

Learn Where To Hit From The Whites

Many golfers will play from the whites when the course is covered in snow. This is a great way to keep things exciting and leave you with some unexpected challenges. For example, it might be harder to use your driver since the ball will travel less far when it hits the ground under snow.

Watch Out For Ice And Slick Spots

If you’re lucky enough to have a course nearby that’s covered with snow; you’ll have to deal with ice and other dangerous spots. Ensure you know where the potentially slippery areas are so you don’t lose your footing and fall during your round.

Remember That Your Clubs Will Be Slippery Too

Even if you dress for cold weather, you might find your clubs slipping from your hands after a swing. Be ready for this by wearing gloves that will help you hold onto your club and wear shoes that won’t slip off as quickly as sneakers would.

Don’t Forget To Layer Your Clothes.

One of the best tips and most comfortable ways to play through winter is to layer clothing items so that you can adjust for warmth and weather conditions. Having several layers to choose from will help you stay comfortable and safe throughout your entire round.

Bring A Few Towels

When it’s cold outside, you might find yourself sweating during play, even if the temperature is low. This usually occurs when you’re swinging your clubs fast and hard. Be prepared for this by bringing a few towels to dry off or shake off between shots.

Tips for that winter golf game, Pack A Few Extra Things

Remember, there will be times when you’ll need to replace certain items during your rounds, and it’s best to plan and pack them in advance instead of leaving things behind and scrambling to find replacements. Items that you might forget and need to replace include:

– Ice scraper

– Lighter or matches

– Towel(s)

– Extra gloves (or mittens)

– Hats and scarves (if appropriate)

Winter golf doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the proper preparation, you’ll be able to go out and enjoy your game even when it’s cold outside.

Look For Deals On Apparel And Accessories Winter is a great time to look for deals on winter golf apparel and accessories. You’ll also likely find that some courses offer discounts during the offseason so that you can play more often for less.

Winter golf doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the proper preparation, you’ll be able to go out and enjoy your game even when it’s cold outside.

Keep Your Hands Warm

If your hands feel numb on the course, you’re probably not swinging as fast or hitting the ball as far as you can. To keep this from happening, keep your hands warm by wearing gloves that fit correctly and have a bit of grip.

Be Ready For The Unexpected

So, no matter how prepared you think you are, there will likely be times when something unexpected happens. This might include getting stuck in snow or having to chase down a ball that rolls onto the green after it’s teed off. Remember that you won’t be the only one on the course, so laugh about it with your fellow players and enjoy the experience.

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Wake County Opens Sandy Pines Nature Preserve

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Urban Life

Our lives are lived in cities. So, I believe that it is estimated that by the year 2050, two-thirds of the world’s population will live in urban areas. As numbers and our populations grow, we need parks, greenways, and trails to help us stay healthy. As we know in today’s society, many individuals spend most of their time indoors, and technology has even made it possible to go outside without going outside. Video games and virtual reality allow us to enjoy nature experiences from the comfort of our couches, but this is not a substitute for the real thing.

Do you like to play outside, or love ourdoor living? Well, if you do, it’s perfect for your life.

Outdoor recreation is the pursuit of any activity which takes place in the great outdoors. Nature is fantastic, and it’s terrific for you to get outside and enjoy it! However, there are many benefits to outdoor recreation that you may not know about.

Here are just a few!

A study by the CDC shows that maintaining a regular schedule of outdoor recreation can increase healthy longevity by as much as 7.4 years!

According to a study by two UC graduates, people who engage in “green exercise” (outdoor recreation) are less likely to suffer from serious health complications like heart disease, arthritis, or cancer than those who do not.

The outdoor recreation activity has been shown to positively affect just about every primary organ system in the human body!

Note Some benefits on how outdoor recreation may be beneficial to staying healthy and reducing stress.

– Reducing the risk of chronic disease

– Boosting energy levels and improving sleep

– Preserving memory function

So, what are you waiting for?

So, with the three mentioned above, touch on a few of the many benefits that spending time outside can provide. 

There are no longer reasons to wonder why? So many people spend their weekends at state parks, walking trails, or just camping in their backyards. 

Nature is something we all need to stay healthy. Though the idea of getting outside may not seem urgent, it’s essential to realize what we are missing when we don’t spend time in nature.

In addition to these benefits, nature is something that most everyone enjoys.

According to a National Sporting Goods Association survey, 96% of Americans report participating in outdoor activities at least once every month.

This number is most likely even more significant for individuals under the age of 24.

Ninety-nine percent report that they participate in outdoor recreation sometime during the year, showing just how important it is to our youth.

The question isn’t whether or not we can afford to visit state parks and get our nature fixed.

It’s the question, can we afford not to?

According to several scientific studies over the decades, people who live closer to urban green spaces felt happier and less stressed than those who did not.

Even more surprising is that these benefits were felt regardless of socioeconomic status, which means anyone may enjoy these benefits, not just privileged ones.

So, let’s get out there and have some fun while enjoying nature!

Wake County’s newest park opens!

Take a Look!

Wake County opens 536-acre Nature Preserve!

The 563-acre Sandy Pines Preserve is the largest single tract of land owned by Wake County Parks, Recreation, and Open Space, the county department that oversees Raleigh’s parks system.

The nature preserve will offer walking and equestrian trail.

Sandy Pines offers 6.5 miles of walking and equestrian trails that run through various habitats, including pine forests, creeks, ponds, and open fields. 

However, before visiting, note: There are no restrooms or water fountains at the preserve.

When can I visit?

The preserve is scheduled to be open on Saturdays and Sundays only now through March 31, 2022, and

From April 1 to August 31, 2022, the preserve will be open between the hours of 8 a.m. and sunset, seven days a week.

The park is located at 7201 Doc Proctor Road in Wendell.

What makes the park unique is its equestrian-friendly trails.

Only two other parks in the county — the American Tobacco Trail and Umstead State Park — allow public riding.

Wake County Opens Sandy Pines Nature Preserve
Sandy Pines Preserve | Wake County Government

wakegov.com

One of Raleigh’s largest nature preserves.

Wendell is a town in northern Wake County, North Carolina, United States. It is located between Raleigh and the county seat at Raleigh. As of the 2020 censuses, Wendell had a population of 10,135. With a significant growth range from 2015 when the population was 6,733, according to town estimates.

Wendell’s motto is “small-town warmth and big-time sophistication.”

The park opened on Saturday, October 23, 2021, after years of planning and fundraising. This will be a gorgeous addition to Wake County, The Town of Wendell, The city of Raleigh, NC, and surrounding areas.

Largest Southern County Park, Enjoy!

Trails and open spaces help keep our city green and provide an escape from the concrete jungle. These beautiful preserves, county parks, and greenway trails allow us all to connect with nature in a way that we may never have had the opportunity to before.

So, many things our bodies need for health may be found in the great outdoors, so keep exploring! 

And Enjoy!

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Winter is approaching quickly in Piedmont, time for some winter activities

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winter activities

Winter Activities! Cold, chilly winds are now blowing through North Carolina, bringing with it moisture for freezing rain or snow. However, do not let this stop the outdoor fun you may enjoy during winter! You can participate in many activities before all of the cold fronts come crashing in.

One of the activities that you can participate in is hiking. Many mountains lose their leaves during the winter and become covered in a fresh blanket of snow. This makes them an excellent place to go for a hike. Many people enjoy going up the trails and enjoying the fresh air and views before all of the white stuff begins to fall from the sky.

However, you have to remember that the weather is still unpredictable during this time. It could be sunny for one minute but quickly turn into freezing rain or snowstorms. Do not forget to bring proper gear if you plan on hiking in these conditions.

Another activity that many people enjoy is winter sports. There are plenty of mountain ranges around North Carolina, perfect for downhill skiing or snowboarding.

Another activity in which you might be interested in ice fishing! So many individuals enjoy taking a break from work during the wintertime and going to a nearby lake or river. Fishing from an ice hut can be a lot of fun when you have the proper gear!

There is nothing like sitting around in a small shelter on top of a frozen body of water.

Other activities that people enjoy during this time include snowshoeing, curling, and horseback riding.

Take a little outing ice skating or watch a hockey game!

Many outdoor rinks are open to the public, such as “Skating on Campus” at UNC-Chapel Hill, free for students and a minimal fee for non-students. If you’re looking for something more casual, check out American Tobacco Trail’s outdoor rink in Durham!

Check out a winter festival!

Winter festivals or carnivals are just one super fun favorite thing to do during this time with family and friends: get dressed up in multiple layers of warm clothing and go on a winter outing to one of North Carolina’s many festivals!

So, check out some of these ideas for your next family outing:

events

Go Sledding!

There are so many areas around the beautiful state of North Carolina that have great hills for sliding down. The winter season is a time for fun and excitement before the green grass of spring and the chirping of birds returns. So, I think there are many activities that people can participate in, so do not let the cold weather, snow, or wind stop you from being active. So go out, have fun and enjoy!

Take along a hot treat for the ride.

Old-Fashioned hot chocolate recipe, nothing else says cozy.

1/2c. sugar

1/3 c. cocoa

4 1/2 cups. milk

1/2 tsp vanilla

In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients, constantly stirring over med heat, until mixture comes to a boil.

Serve and garnish with your favorites.

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Interior Design, Does your Sofa talk to your Chairs?

Finding your Decor Personality and tackle that interior design.

We are all aware that home décor is to make a space look attractive, but many individuals out there take it very seriously.

If you are one of those who always think of remodeling their homes or changing the curtains in the lounge, you are not alone. For everyone who wishes to change something in interior design, one thing should be kept in mind- keep it simple.

You have probably seen many houses with excellent interior designs, but sometimes they look too complicated to anyone who visits them for the first time. So what’s the trick behind this?

Making a perfect balance between simplicity and attractiveness. You can always add glamour by implementing accessories like lamps, vases, candle stands, etc. But things must not go out of hand. Otherwise, your entire house would start looking full of unnecessary objects, which will only make it hard to clean up.

We are all familiar with using great textures in interior design but did you know that they are highly beneficial for our brain? Who would say that tables, chairs, or paintings can be so much more than just helping in making our homes look great?

What makes a good interior design?

First of all, about interior design, this post is exactly what you need because we have prepared an article on the topic for you. So if you lack inspiration or wish to improve your home to impress friends and guests, read our tips below.

The Seven Elements Every Great Interior Design Have

You may think that excellent interior design can be achieved by wasting money buying expensive decorations or furniture, but that’s not necessarily the case. With every great interior’s seven elements, you can get inspired and enhance your home without breaking the bank too much. Those components include:

The focal point of your room

What is your room lacking to make it great? If you have a small space, the solution to making it look larger and function better is by adding a focal point. A focal point can do wonders for any room because it draws the eye of every visitor towards it. It’s something that captures everyone’s attention when they first come into your living or dining room.

There are many places in our home where we can add this element (corners, windows, mantelpieces …), but you need to find the perfect spot for it to stand out truly. Once you’ve decided on placing some beautiful décor there, give your visitors time to admire its beauty.

The balance between dark and light

One of the most important things when decorating a room is being able to create balance. It would be best to place your furniture with care because it needs to match the color scheme you have chosen for your property.

If you are not sure about colors, try to use neutral tones, which will help in creating harmony throughout your house. Remember that every room has its personality, so don’t be afraid of adding something new or taking away some old stuff if needed. The combination of dark and light elements will be appreciated by everyone who visits you!

Texture in home decoration

We are all familiar with using great textures in interior design but did you know that they are highly beneficial for our brain? Who would say that tables, chairs, or paintings can be so much more than just helping in making our homes look great?

Textures are essential to creating coziness when decorating your interior. It’s a great way to make a home feel more comfortable and make it stand out from the crowd. Even if you don’t want to add many textured décor pieces in your rooms, choose some gorgeous rugs for each room, which will undoubtedly enhance its allure by several notches!

Bringing nature indoors

Everyone wishes to relax after a long day at work, and what better way is there to do this but to bring nature indoors. There are countless ways to benefit from this idea because everyone needs fresh air from time to time.

To create a serene and harmonious environment, you need to find an excellent combination of indoor plants with other décor elements. Some species offer a soothing touch because the leaves have very rhythmic patterns that help stimulate our minds and body. You can also opt for water basins or fountains, which have similar effects because they add serenity to your home while calming down your mood.

Layers, layers, layers!

This is probably one of the essential rules for interior design. Everyone knows that using too many items will make your place look cluttered, even if you use minimalistic furniture. Layers are a great way of decorating interiors without disturbing their natural beauty. So, what are layers? Layers are additional parts of décor that you can use to enhance your home even more.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different textures or color schemes to help you achieve great interior design pretty quickly!

Before making the final decision regarding the furniture and colors for each room, make sure to take a look at these seven elements, which are extremely helpful to create stunning interiors everyone will envy.

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Dinner Party, with a twist!

Welcome to 1950

At times, it’s enjoyable to have a dinner party with family or close friends. Preparing the food and setting up your table can be pretty time-consuming, but it can be gratifying when you get compliments on how everything looks.

However, let’s put a twist on it, who would you invite that is famous (living or dead) to your dinner party?

Lucille Ball

Lucille Ball is the guest of honor, so you see it as your duty to find the most decadent foods imaginable. You go high-end with everything, and you prepare yourself for a night of indulgence and whimsy.

It was the 1950s, after all, and you were hosting a dinner, but it wasn’t your typical affair. This dinner party was to honor one of your favorite people in the world – Lucille Ball.

You wanted this night to be over-the-top lavish with an elegant menu that would delight everyone at the table. The week leading up to this event, you scoured menus from all over for just the perfect dishes that would show off what made Lucille so special. 

Preparation

The first thing you will need to do is plan the party. Decide who you will invite and make a guest list. Also, think about how many courses you want to serve, remembering that each course takes time for preparation and that there should be about 2-3 dishes per course.

Next, start planning what foods you will serve at your dinner party.

Does it begin with what type of foods you want to help?

Will they be warm, cold, and how much time will you need to prepare.

Then consider the number of people that will be attending.

Are there any guests that may have allergies or need a vegetarian option?

This is especially important when thinking about appetizers, as you will have to tailor your selections to each person’s tastes.

You landed on four courses: some of Lucille Ball’s favorites and the perfect menu for the era, and let’s not forget her favorite cocktail, Marigritas.

https://www.liquor.com/recipes/margarita/

Four-Courses

The first course, oysters Rockefeller;

Second Course, Lobster Thermidor;

Third Course, Filet Mignon with béarnaise sauce;

Fourth Course, Cheese plate with grapes and figs alongside fruit.

Finally, start deciding how you are going to decorate your table. This can be very simple or more complex, depending on personal preference. You can use many things for decorating purposes, such as candles, flowers, fruit bowls, place cards, wine glasses, and candles. Most importantly, yellow roses, one of Lucy’s favorite flowers.

So, when that big day comes, make sure you have all of your preparations made. You can plan to cook a couple of dishes yourself and hire a caterer for the rest if you do not have enough time to prepare them yourself.

Review your guest list and finalize a seating arrangement that will work well with each person. Don’t forget to have fun!

Recorded Video

This dinner party was going to be different from others because before guests arrived, you would be filming them coming in; this was going to be part of your very own episode of “I Love Lucy.”

You laugh as you remember watching this show as a young girl, and your fandom had only grown after becoming an adult. It was the first thing you thought of when planning this dinner party because who wouldn’t want to have their own time with Lucy?

You also remember back at how much work it took to get everything planned. You had to make sure everything was perfect, from the menu to planning how you would film it all. It took weeks of planning and was quite the undertaking until you remembered an up-and-coming technology called recorded video. All your work could be filmed during this dinner party with little preparation on your part!

With recorded video, there was no more worrying about the timing of events. The whole dinner could be recorded from start to finish, and viewers would have a perfect idea of how it all played out. You were sure your guests would appreciate this as well since they wouldn’t need to rush through their meal either.

But the best part about the recorded video was that it could be rewatched as many times as people wanted. This was perfect for you because your memories of the night were hazy with so much excitement and joy, so it would be nice to go back and see everything again and show future generations your footage with Lucy.

I Heart Lucy!

“I Love Lucy” was a show that resonated with people, so much so that it continued to be shown even after the original run ended, and you have seen multiple re-runs.

The show was about two women who wanted nothing more than to be in show business, and now that you were planning a dinner party with its star, it made sense that this technology was the perfect fit.

Lucille Ball was considered a television pioneer because of her commitment to doing physical comedy, something that most women weren’t supposed to do at the time.

For most people involved in “I Love Lucy,” it wasn’t just another job; it was an adventure full of love and laughter. You hoped your dinner party would capture some of that same magic.

For the success of a dinner party, preparation is the key!

Make sure you plan out everything before your big day and have a lot of fun, and take a minute and say who would I have famous at my dinner party?

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January is Here! What you need to know for Winter Maintenance

January is here! Well almost! As they say, “it will be here before you know it.”

Prepare yourself now to make sure you properly maintain your car. With these simple tools, staying safe is easy when you know what to do during the winter.

Winter Preparation Check List Tools You Need To Get Going!

One thing you’ll want if you live anywhere with real winters is an ice scraper.

If you can’t get your car into a garage and scrape it off, then you’ll need to put the ice scraper in your trunk. You should keep one of these on hand at all times for quick use, and I think that is an excellent tip to even have here in parts of North Carolina.

Another tool is a snow brush. This will come in handy if there happens to be a blizzard condition or if you are just caught out in a heavy snowfall while you’re out driving around. The snow brush can help with clearing off the windshield so that it doesn’t slow down your visibility as much – especially since most people now have automatic windshield wipers anyway.

If those two tools don’t cut it, then you may need a heavy-duty scraper. This is common for those who live in places that regularly receive lots of snowfall throughout the wintertime. As with the ice scraper, it’s essential to keep this in the trunk since there is no time to be fumbling around for it when it starts snowing.

If winter travel still isn’t your thing and you park on the street, then you’ll need salt or other de-icing chemicals. This way, if there happens to be a bit of precipitation before you wake up or after work, then at least you won’t have to worry about slipping all over the place as you walk out of your car.

Emergency Kits

As for car-related tools that are necessary during winter, everyone should have an emergency kit.

Even if it just contains flares, blankets, water, snacks, chapsticks, hand sanitizers, having them could save someone’s life. All sorts of accidents happen more often during the winter because of the harsh conditions. So having a complete emergency kit in your trunk is ideal.

It would help if you also kept extra clothes and boots. It’s common to have unexpected roadside breakdowns, so having an extra pair of socks, pants, coat, and shoes for everyone in your car can save you from being miserable when you’re stranded outside during a snowstorm or winter-related weather incident. If there are minor children involved, then it’ll be even more necessary to have them prepared with warm clothing too!

Winter maintenance checklist car at Edmunds

Hanging-out locally

If you’re new around town, be sure to find out where the snowplows are at your local municipality. This way, if it does snow while you aren’t prepared, you will be able to move your car and not get a ticket.

Never drive unless you have to. So, if you are the only car on the road, then chances are it might be too slippery or iced over. Please wait until it melts before getting behind the wheel!

Be sure that your snow tires are in good condition, and check out online reviews for new ones before purchasing them.

So, if there appears to be a lot of snow or slush on the roadways, it is advisable to have chains, and this is especially true if you have 4-wheel drive and can handle the increased weight on your vehicle.

Be sure your windshield wiper blades are in good condition. Just a little smudge can fog up your window real quick and become a safety hazard. It can also be challenging to see when it’s icy, so make sure everything is cleaned correctly!

The critical thing to remember about winter car maintenance is that if you don’t take care of your car now, the consequences might worsen later. To us, sometimes this task may seem like a hassle, but it will most likely save money, time, and a few headaches in the long run!

Outside your Home

Many people tend to forget about their porch in terms of house tools that you may need during wintertime. In particular, they need to make sure that any stairs leading up to the porch are either shoveled or clean enough where people won’t slip walking on them.

In addition to the stairs, you should also have a snow shovel. This way, if it’s snowing while someone is coming over, then they can quickly help by clearing off your porch and steps themselves. It may not be expected from guests, but it’s always better than having them arrive at an icy entrance!

So, in the end, and the most important statement is that no matter where you live or how cold or warm it may end up getting during wintertime, everyone needs to remember to be safe!

Many accidents happen because of poor visibility in storms, engines freezing up, and even tire blow-outs. Be prepared for every scenario possible so that staying safe becomes second nature.

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Homeowner’s Guide to Hosting the Holidays

hosting the holidays

Hosting the holidays festivities can be stressful, but these tips should help, know your limitations. If you cannot host guests for the holidays, now is the time to make that decision rather than trying to over-extend yourself.

Set limits and be ready for them. For example, if kids are too much work for you to have underfoot during these busy times, it would be wise to re-think hosting holiday parties with children in attendance or having your children come home from college because their dorm room will not accommodate visitors due to limited space. This way, you won’t feel guilty about being overwhelmed by excessive demands on your time and energy during this season of giving thanks for what we have many blessings. Of course, if you are up for the challenge and can find a way to make it work with whatever limitations you must deal with, all the better.

Holiday parties at home tend to be more stressful than those planned in a rented hall or community function center. Everyone may be squashed into close quarters on your timetable, so there is little time for breathing space. However, instead of getting overwhelmed by the pressures of pleasing everyone on your guest list leading up to significant events such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, host smaller holiday gatherings rather than large-scale events during this season. For example, require guests who RSVP to attend an upcoming holiday party at your house to bring food items shared with everyone. This way will allow people to feel more comfortable knowing plentiful bounties of food will be available to go around. In turn, you won’t have to spend hours worrying about how much food to serve or if it’s all gone before the end of the evening.

Also, try having a couple of parties throughout the month instead of two events that are several days apart from each other. There is nothing wrong with hosting as many holiday parties as you can accommodate so long as your time and energy levels allow it. Whether you choose one large-scale event or multiple smaller ones depends upon how much time and effort you can give to the planning and hosting.

Pay attention to special needs your guests may have. Some people are homebound for various reasons, so they can’t get out much during this season, while others will be traveling long distances by plane or car, so they need places to rest their heads if possible before setting off on their journey back home after a holiday celebration is over. So, let’s try not to become too upset about last-minute changes in plans that have occurred because of unforeseen circumstances beyond everyone’s control, such as Childcare being unavailable for children who are allergic to pets or certain types of fur due to safety concerns. All you can do is keep communications open with each guest who RSVPs appreciate your invitation to spend time together during this season.

Please don’t overdo it decorating outside either! You want people visiting your home to enjoy the beauty of your decorations without tripping over them. Keep walkways clear and make sure steps are well lit.

If you don’t have a budget to buy new holiday décor, use what you already have on hand or make yourself with creative thinking! For instance, take an inexpensive wooden hanger and spray paint it with festive accents. Hang pine boughs from it for instant wreath artwork! If your evergreen boughs tend to be sparse at the ends, or you want fuller coverage, take some potted plants that are thriving this time of year and weave their foliage through the branches for added lushness. Here’s another idea: Use gingerbread cookie cutters to create ribbon bows out of raffia and attach them to your wreaths. It’s also a nice touch to string popcorn and cranberries (fresh or dried) for garland while you’re decorating. Use some of the cut-up bits to pop into bowls as centerpieces, while others can be strung on ribbon and hung on walls, doors, and windows.

Don’t forget a helpful tip for Hosting the Holidays: Take advantage of holiday sales and stock up early for next year, so you don’t have to scrimp during this upcoming season of giving thanks! So, if you cannot find what you need at local stores, then turn to the Internet, where there is no shortage of these types of bargains waiting for just a few keystrokes away:

Do not feel obligated to go all out decorating for the holidays. Many think that simplifying holiday decorations is more effective to enjoy the festive season than inundating your guests with visual clutter. You can still create an exceptional atmosphere without going overboard and driving yourself into exhaustion in the process! It’s better to have a relaxed attitude while entertaining than try to live up to some impossible ideal of perfection, which will only stress you out and make hosting something other than a joyous occasion! One thing you should never forget: A lot of simple elegance can be achieved by focusing your efforts on quality, not quantity, when it comes to holiday décor.

If you are hosting a holiday meal, make sure to clean your oven (inside and out) beforehand. This will help prevent food particles from burning onto the racks. If you don’t want to haul out the cleaning supplies, try this neat trick: Squirt some dish soap into a small shallow bowl and add a few drops of lemon extract or oil. Then place several cotton balls over it and light them with a match! The smoke coming off the wet parts of each ball steams away all the dirt without any elbow grease necessary on your part! Allow the unit to cool before replacing racks in their proper positions.

Don’t be afraid to branch out when cooking for guests during this season rather than sticking with tried-and-true recipes. There are so many beautiful recipes available online and in cookbooks to choose from that the possibilities of new ideas or flavors to try are endless!

Hosting the Holidays Tip: Explore culinary possibilities far beyond the ordinary by embracing creativity with your menu planning this holiday season!

Think about it and ask yourself what type of experience you want your guests to have while visiting. Some might feel that because it is Christmas or Thanksgiving, everyone should eat turkey at every meal! Others may prefer an all-Italian cuisine for dinner parties. Still, some like exotic menus during this festive season, such as a Moroccan feast with a belly dancer entertaining throughout the evening! Be open to suggestions and ideas where food is concerned but know yourself before deciding on a theme that seems attractive at first glance but may turn out to be impractical after a closer look!

So, as we all can see, when hosting the holidays, there is no need to reinvent the wheel as far as hosting your holiday guests. It’s all about making minor adjustments and applying creativity where it counts most, so everything comes together beautifully for this season of celebration!

For more information on the Belmont Lake Preserve new home community in Rocky Mount, visit belmontlakeperserve.com.

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