Favorite #37: NC Transportation Museum

Posted on April 14, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
A Day at the NC Transportation Museum

A Day at the NC Transportation Museum

NC Transportation Museum

 Have you ever taken a train ride? If not, there’s no better place than the NC Transportation Museum in Spencer, NC to give it a try. My two-year old grandson and his friend did just that this past Easter.

A train lover since a toddler, that might have something to do with the fact that his grandpa and I live beside a train track. When he comes over for a visit and hears a train, we all have to run outside, wave at the engineer and watch all the cars pass, as he continuously says, ‘choo-choo.’

Realizing his love for all things that have to do with trains, his mom has taken him several times to the NC Transportation Museum. On their last visit, he and a friend rode the train with the Easter Bunny.

Before becoming the NC Transportation Museum, this facility was known by locals as the Spencer Shops. During its busiest years it became Southern Railway’s largest serving terminal, with the location chosen because it was halfway between Washington, DC and Atlanta, Ga. After closing in the late ‘70’s, the land and buildings were donated to the state of NC and placed on a list of historic sites.

Much planning and many donations later, families today enjoy not only riding the train like my grandson, but also other activities such as touring the museum to see transportation’s historical past. In addition, educational programs are provided for school groups.

If interested in learning more about the NC Transportation Museum and what they have to offer, check out the following link:http://www.nctrans.org/Home.aspx

I have no doubt my grandson will enjoy more days in years to come at this wonderful historical site. Perhaps his love of trains comes naturally because after all, my grandson’s paternal great-great grandpa was an engineer.

Congratulations, NC Transportation Museum! Because of your success in preserving transportation’s historical past and providing fun, wholesome activities that families can do together, you are my choice for favorite place of the week.

Thanks,

Dicy

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Favorite #36: Blogger, Lydia Richmond

Posted on April 6, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
Lydia Richmond: The Cluttered Genius

Lydia Richmond: The Cluttered Genius

Lydia Richmond: Host of #Bullynomore

It’s nice to have friends who not only have a blog, but also know how to tweet and are willing to host a twitter party in your honor. My friend, Lydia Richmond, writes the blog, Cluttered Genius, which is a fun, informative blog of interest to women.

When my fourth book, Tired of Being a Bully was released on Amazon.com. and Barnes and Noble, Lydia approached me about hosting a twitter party using the book as a catalyst for the topic of bullying. I was thrilled because the purpose of writing this book was to open up discussions in a way that is non-threatening to children. The bully and the victim in the book are two neighborhood dogs, with one continually taking the other one’s bones. In the end, they settle their differences and become friends.

Since Lydia believed Tired of Being a Bully was a great way to approach the subject of bullying, she had the idea of inviting other bloggers and experts to join a discussion on twitter. One of the experts invited was Dr. Deborah Gilboa, known for her expertise on children’s issues. http://askdoctorg.com/bio/ The party was scheduled for Tuesday, April 2nd at 9:30p.m.

As host of the party, Lydia presented 11 questions for discussion. With the flow of conversation steady and a number of different solutions offered to help children with this issue, the event trended. Here’s the link for #bullynomore: https://twitter.com/search23bullynomore&src=typd

If interested in learning more about this party, or Lydia’s blog, Cluttered Genuis, check out the following link:

http://www.clutteredgenius.com/2013/03/17/tired-of-being-a-bully-bullynomore-twitter-party/

Congratulations, Lydia! Because of your willingness to approach hot topics and stay in the main stream of those discussions, you are my choice for favorite blogger of the week.

Thanks,

Dicy

 

 

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Favorite # 35: Community Festival

Posted on March 29, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
West Rowan Farm Home and Garden Spring Festival

West Rowan Farm Home and Garden Spring Festival

West Rowan Farm Home and Garden Spring Festival

Spring seems to be busting out all over at the West Rowan Farm Home and Garden store on Hwy 801 in Bear Poplar, NC. While I suppose you could say that about most places this time of year, it seems to be more so at this store. Brian and Elsie Bennett are experiencing their first year as store owners and like new parents want to show off. They easily accomplished that on March 23rd, 2013, at their store’s spring festival grand opening.

On the day of the event, a variety of vendors brought items to sell such as quilts, cakes, wreaths, bread, boots, horse tack, jewelry, flowers and metal art. Throughout the day, shoppers not only enjoyed browsing, but also enjoyed a variety of entertainment from cloggers, to singing groups and instrumentalists, including professional banjo player, Dale Mills and friends. A horse and buggy ride added to the day’s fun.

One of the goals for the festival was to raise money for several local ministries including a soup kitchen. That goal became a reality by the end of the day because a truck load of food as well as $700.00 was collected. Overwhelmed with the kindness, Elsie said, “Neighbors helping neighbors, friends you can call family … those are the folks that hang out in a little town called Bear Poplar/Mt Ulla.”

It looks like from the positive response of the spring festival that many would like to see it become an annual event. What better way to shake off winter blues, fellowship together as a community and help those in need than an event such as this?

Congratulations, West Rowan Farm Home and Garden store! Because of your generous spirit in giving of your time and facilities for a community event, you are my choice for business of the week.

If you would like to read more about this event, check out the following Salisbury Post link:http://salisburypost.com/article/20130329/SP01/130329683/1023/dicy-festival-brings-together-bear-poplar-friends-neighbors

Do you know of a small-town community event where neighbors are helping neighbors? Leave a comment, message on facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com

Thanks,

Dicy

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Favorite #34: Walkertown Elementary School

Posted on March 21, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
Walkertown Elementary Reading Event

Walkertown Elementary Reading Event

Reading Day at Walkertown Elementary School

Walkertown Elementary School is a beautiful school that welcomes parents, visitors and community members to come inside and see what exciting things are taking place. One of those exciting things happened just a few weeks ago.

March 7th was the day Walkertown Elementary School hosted its first annual, “Walkertown, Let’s Read to Make a Difference Day.” Even the Mayor proclaimed the day as an annual event, encouraging the community to get involved with supporting the school and students in their pursuit of becoming life-long readers.

As a children’s author, I was excited when Ms. Barbara Cohen, the principal of Walkertown Elementary School, invited me to be a part of the day’s activities. As you can see in the photo, the children were well-behaved, listening and participating at appropriate times as I read my children’s books. They seemed to especially enjoy the newest book, “Tired of Being a Bully.”

Ms. Cohen said she was happy with all the support that was received from community businesses, churches and other organizations. The schedule was filled throughout the day with various individuals who came not only to read, but to share their ideas of why reading is important. From all accounts, and from the smiles on children’s faces, it was a successful day enjoyed by all.

To produce graduates ready for the 21st century, as demonstrated by the philosophy of the administration and staff of Walkertown Elementary School, it’s going to take not only the efforts of parents, teachers and students, but the community as well. It’s encouraging to see educators open to new and different ideas such as reading day, but it’s even more encouraging when leaders of that community support those ideas.

Congratulations, Walkertown Elementary School! For your organization and willingness to let others be a part of your educational process, you are my favorite school of the week.

Do you have a favorite school or school event?

If so, leave a comment, message on facebook or email dicysm@hahoo.com.

Thanks,

Dicy

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Favorite #33: NASCAR Driver, Hut Stricklin

Posted on March 13, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
Hut and Taylor Stricklin: Vision of things to come

Hut and Taylor Stricklin: Vision of things to come

NASCAR Legend, Hut Stricklin

 Hut Stricklin is a name NASCAR fans are familiar with because at one time he was a top driver on that circuit. Starting out on short tracks in Alabama as a teenager, his career with NASCAR began in 1978.

Growing up, Hut saw his dad, Waymond Stricklin, run a used car parts store during the week, only to race cars and trucks at short tracks on the weekends. When Hut was 17, Waymond began investing money in his racing efforts instead. This lasted for about five years until one day Waymond explained he couldn’t sponsor racing anymore because of finances.

Hut thought this was the worst thing that could have happened to him, but eventually found it to be the best because it forced him to seek sponsorship on his own. From that pivotal moment, Hut had to stand on his own two feet.

Even though each team Hut signed with lasted for only a year or two, he still managed to stay in NASCAR for over twenty years, with wins and championships along the way. Some of his special moments were winning NASCAR’s Dash Series Championship in 1987, finishing fourth at Daytona in the Spring Cup Series and being a stunt driver for Days of Thunder starring Tom Cruise.

While recently visiting with Hut at his shop in Cleveland, NC, I was pleasantly surprised when his twenty-four year old son, Taylor Stricklin, walked in and joined the conversation. Knowing Taylor also loves racing, I asked how things were going. He said things were going good and that he was working hard to get his car ready for the first race of the season in March. Like his dad, he too started on the short track.

Taylor hopes to find sponsorship soon, but until that happens he will continue to save the money he makes, investing in the sport he loves, working side by side with his dad at Stricklin’s Auto Car and Truck Parts in Cleveland, NC.

To read more of the Stricklin story, check out the following Salisbury Post link:http://salisburypost.com/article/20130308/SP01/130309750/0/SEARCH&slId=1

Congratulations, Hut Stricklin! Even though retired, you are my choice for favorite NASCAR driver of the week for creating memories for over twenty years and for passing the love of the sport on to the next generation.

Who is your favorite NASCAR driver of all time and why? Leave a comment, Facebook message or email at dicysm@yahoo.com

Thanks,

Dicy

 

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Favorite #32: Jeff Gordon Children’s Hospital

Posted on March 5, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
A Miracle in the Hospital

A Miracle in the Hospital

Jeff Gordon Children’s Hospital, CMC-Northeast

 Although grandparents know grandchildren are a gift from God, it seems even more so when a grandchild has a life-threatening illness or disease. My family experienced that frightening event several weeks ago, when my newborn grandson was admitted to the hospital for what was thought to be jaundice, but turned out to be so much more.

Without the wisdom and expertise of the doctors and nurses at Jeff Gordon Children’s Hospital, CMC-Northeast in Concord, NC, my grandchild probably wouldn’t have made it. After much testing, it was determined he has a rare genetic disorder called galactosemia. Basically, this disorder is the body’s inability to break down the sugar galactose, found not only in milk, but others foods as well. This is so rare only about 1 in 60,000 children are born with it.

There’s no question being in the right place, at the right time, with the right doctors saved my grandson’s life. Special thanks goes to not only Dr. McCauley for making the diagnosis, but to all the pediatric nurses who cared for him. Thanks also goes to the wonderful support staff concerned not only for my grandson’s welfare, but family members too.

Although it took the wisdom and expertise of the doctors and nurses to discover the problem, we knew people from all walks of life were praying. Those prayers lifted us up in days that seemed very dark. Today my grandchild is home safe, happy and flourishing as a result of everyone’s efforts.

Even with a controlled diet, however, there can be effects that do not appear until years later, so please continue to keep my grandson in your prayers.

Congratulations Jeff Gordon Children’s Hospital, CMC- Northeast/Pediatric Unit! Because of the dedication of your doctors, nurses and staff, you are my favorite place of the week.

What experience(s) have you had in a pediatric hospital? Leave a comment, message on Facebook or email

dicysm@yahoo.com.

Thanks,

Dicy

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Favorite #31: Dog Trainer

Posted on February 21, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
Glenn Sherrill and a friend

Glenn Sherrill and a friend

Dog Trainer: Glenn Sherrill

            Even a wonderful pet sometimes needs a little extra help and training. Well, if truth be known, it’s probably the owners who need help. If you find yourself in that position,  one of the best trainers to call is Glenn Sherrill of Salisbury, NC. An expert in his field, Glenn offers group classes, private lessons, doggie boot camp, problem solving and behavior modification.

            Glenn’s business, Train Play Live has grown steadily over the past four years because of his dedication and willingness to learn from others, including his mentor, Florida Dog Trainer, Martin Deeley.

          I personally witnessed one of Glenn’s success stories last spring, when writing a story for the Salisbury Post. It all began when a rescue dog named Molly was brought to the no-kill rescue shelter, Faithful Friends, in Salisbury. With the right pieces coming together, it didn’t take long until she was adopted by someone who needed her as much as she needed him. After the adoption, Glenn began working with Molly and her owner. Learning quickly, Molly is now not only a service dog, but also a great companion.

            Read more of Molly’s story at the following link:

http://www.salisburypost.com/article/20120503/SP0503/305039974/0/SEARCH&slId=22

            If you would like to contact Glenn, send an email to:  glenn@trainplaylive.com.

            Congratulations, Glenn! You are my favorite person of the week because of your willingness to go the extra mile to help dogs and their owners to thrive and have a happy life together.

            Do you have a story you would like to share about training your dog? If so, leave a comment, Facebook message or email dicysm@yahoo.com.

 

             Thanks,

             Dicy

           

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Favorite #30: Grandchildren

Posted on February 14, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
Sleepy and cute at two days old

Sleepy and cute at two days old

Grandchildren: A Gift from God

            What is it about a newborn baby that causes adults to sit around in a trance, making sounds as if learning a new language? It’s as if no one in the room has seen a baby before.  I became a grandmother for the second time, two weeks ago, and have to admit I’m guilty of all of the above and proud of it.  As a grandmother, you don’t have to apologize, just love.

             Witnessing the birth of my second grandson, there was no doubt in my mind I had seen a miracle from God. As soon as that little baby was born he began bonding with his mother immediately. There were many tears of joy shed in the delivery room that night.  

            For whatever reason, my son-in-law thought it was a good idea to give me the camera, so I did what any grandmother would do, I began clicking away. Not being a photographer, I was proud when my son-in-law said he was impressed with the pictures I had taken. Although I didn’t take the photo to the right, it was too cute not to use.

            With two daughters and no sons, my husband (the football coach) has been waiting all of his life for a boy. With a two year old grandson and now a newborn, he is already checking out newspapers for baseball and football leagues to sign them up for when old enough.

           What an exciting time of life.We should have tried being grandparents first. Don’t you think?

            What activities do you enjoy with your grandchildren?  I’d like to hear from you, so leave a comment, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com.

            Thanks,

            Dicy

 

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Favorite #29: 100 Years of Service

Posted on February 3, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
Lonnie enjoying her birthday

Lonnie enjoying her birthday

Lonnie’s Life

 100 Years of Service to Others

            Several weeks ago I had the opportunity to meet a lady celebrating her 100th birthday at a party given to her by family and friends. Once an elementary school teacher, Lonnie Cruse Holmes had a teaching career that lasted forty years, beginning in 1933. Married in 1936 to a fellow educator, they never had any children, but many came to think of Lonnie as a mother. 

            Loving music, she played the piano and organ for church, beginning when she was eleven years old. Carrying that love of music into the classroom, Lonnie often played the piano and sang with her students. Some of them developed such a love of music from Mrs. Holmes, they later went on to college, earning music degrees. One of those is now a semi-retired choir director in Chicago, while another became a teacher at the NC School of the Arts.

             At the party, I met three of Lonnie’s students she taught during the sixties. Even today, they have memories of (Mrs. Holmes) singing and playing the piano. Watching their faces as they recalled saying the Pledge of Allegiance and singing patriotic songs, it was if they were traveling back through time right before my eyes.

            Thinking only a few friends and family would attend the celebration on January 26, Lonnie was surprised at the large number of people who came to celebrate her milestone. Little did she realize about forty people would show up to wish her happy birthday, while enjoying fellowship, cake and finger food.

             Writing a story about Lonnie for a local newspaper (The Salisbury Post),  I asked what she would like for everyone to know. She said she would like for everyone to know she’s been a Christian all of her life and loves Jesus. Proud to be the oldest living member in her church, Lonnie placed flowers from her garden on the altar for six years without missing a Sunday. That ended fifteen years ago when she moved to a retirement center.

            Friends and family eagerly shared how Lonnie showed love through the years by serving others in her church and community. From their stories, it was obvious she understood love isn’t just words, but action. With Valentine’s Day so close, perhaps we all should take a lesson from Lonnie, remembering love is more than candy and flowers. Even at 100 years old, she is still teaching. Happy 100th Birthday, Lonnie. You so deserve it.

            To read more, check out the following link:

            http://www.salisburypost.com/article/20130203/SP01/130209900/dicy-mccullough-lonnie-holmes-has-made-a-lot-of-music-in-100-years

          Congratulations, Lonnie!  Because of your 100 year milestone and unselfish service, you are my favorite person of the week. 

         Do you know someone who shows love through serving others? If so, I would like to hear from you. Leave a comment, message on Facebook or send an email to dicysm@yahoo.com.

            Thanks,

            Dicy

           Thanks to photographer Wayne Hinshaw for permission to use Lonnie’s photo.

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Favorite #28: Innovative Teacher, Mr. Anderson

Posted on January 27, 2013 by Dicy McCullough
Nick Anderson's Teacher Blog Logo

Nick Anderson’s Teacher Blog Logo

InnovativeTeacher, Nick Anderson

            Nick Anderson, a third grade teacher for the Rowan Salisbury Schools has been teaching elementary school for the past four years. Loving his profession and acquiring his Masters as a reading specialist, he is now working on his Doctorate in Administration from Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia.

            I met Nick several years ago when I was a substitute teacher at his school. After getting to know him, I realized he is smart, motivated and creative. Not only does he have a production company, creating videos for different projects, but he also recently developed an online community for teachers, providing insight and support on current topics.

            This online community is known as I Teach 365. Here are some of Nick’s thoughts about that blog:

            “I Teach 365 is where innovation and 21st technology collide to provide the most modern and useful downloadable resources for today’s classrooms.  Anyone who is a dedicated educator knows that we truly do work year round reflecting, creating, and planning for our students to ensure their growth and success.  With all of the changes that have been made in education and that will continue to come, it is necessary for us to collaborate and learn from one another.  This site has been created by educators who want to help other educators across the nation improve their students’ success.”

            Any school system would be lucky to have such a motivated young teacher leading the way for others in this technology based world.

            Congratulations, Mr. Anderson! Because of your vision for the future and enthusiasm for teaching, you are my favorite person of the week.

            To check out Nick’s blog as well as his other online sites,  click on the following links:

             http://site.iteach365.com/blog/

            http://www.iteach365.com/index.html

            Do you know a motivated teacher who is changing the landscape of education? If so, I would like to hear from you. Leave a comment, message on Facebook, or email dicysm@yahoo.com

            Thanks,

            Dicy

 

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