ANSON COUNTY — Dick Coffee attended 781 consecutive University of Alabama football games. Meg Roh surfed through illness, storms and nightfall to maintain a seven-year daily surfing streak. Jon Sutherland ran at least 1 mile every day for over 52 years.

An activity streak has the power to compel behavior, and marketers have taken note. Marketing researchers Jackie Silverman and Alixandra Barasch recently documented 101 unique instances, including Snapchat, Candy Crush Saga, Wordle and the Duolingo language learning platform, of apps that have incorporated streaks into their architecture by tracking the number of consecutive days users complete a task. There are even apps dedicated solely to tracking streaks.

What is it about streaks that makes them so compelling? I’m interested in consumer behavior and decision making. For insight into streaks and their motivating influence, I conducted research, recently published in the Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science, on the phenomenon.

What is a streak?

Because there’s no generally accepted definition of what a streak is, I started by trying to define the phenomenon. Based on input from people maintaining streaks and how streaks are described in the popular media, I suggest they have four underlying characteristics.

First, streaks require unchanging performance and temporal parameters. In other words, rules, established by the streaker or others, define what it means to successfully complete the activity and the schedule for doing so. For example, a streak may involve completing a session of 50 pushups every calendar day.

Second, the streak-holder largely attributes completing the activity to his or her resolve.

Third, a streak is a series of the same completed activity that the person maintaining the streak considers to be uninterrupted.

Fourth, the streaker quantifies the series’ duration. For instance, a streak-holder can tell you exactly how many consecutive workdays they’ve biked in to the office, or they can tell you the precise date the streak began.

This definition distinguishes an activity streak from winning streaks and lucky streaks. Unlike activity streaks, winning streaks depend on the performance of others – an opponent – while lucky streaks involve outcomes that are not under the control of the person executing the streak.

My definition also highlights that streaks are perceptual. Some people who have completed an objectively uninterrupted series of an activity may not view that as a streak. Others who have not completed the activity every time the opportunity arises may believe they have a streak.

Is it a streak, habit or collection?

People often engage in behavior patterns, or a recurring way of acting in a given situation. A streak is a form of patterned behavior, but there are others. Most people have habits, which are reflexlike and triggered by the context. For example, many people mindlessly fasten their seat belts upon getting in a car.

That automatic aspect sets a habit apart from a streak. A streak often requires the actor to have a strategy for completing the activity in various situations or contexts. For example, someone with a streak of running at least 1 mile every calendar day may need to carefully plan a run when traveling across time zones.

While developing a habit may be appealing because it minimizes thinking, I discovered that the challenge of finding a way to complete the behavior can motivate many streak-holders.

Failing to perform a habitual behavior on occasion will have little impact on the likelihood of the person performing the behavior in the future. Conversely, failing to perform a behavior that is part of a streak ends the streak.

For some people, ending a streak discouraged the behavior in the future: “The streak is over. Why bother?” For others, it hardened their resolve: “The streak is over. I’ve got to start another streak as soon as possible.”

Creating a collection is another form of patterned behavior. Collections typically involve dissimilar objects connected by a common meaning. For example, Jay Leno is known for his collection of antique and exotic cars. But unlike a streak, a collection does not end if someone fails to add to it every time the opportunity arises. I found that a collection of experiences or stories is often a byproduct of maintaining a streak.

Why do streaks motivate behavior?

By tapping into various psychological drivers of behavior, streaks can motivate people in several ways.

In general, a streak adds a higher-level goal (keeping the streak alive) to a lower-level goal (completing an individual activity). Streaks also add structure to an activity, and structure can simplify thinking and decision making. The extent to which goal achievement or structure is important to you would influence your commitment to a streak.

I also found the way a streak is structured can affect the streak-holder’s commitment to it. For example, a streak of meditating at least 20 minutes each day may be more appealing, and lead to more commitment, than a streak of meditating at least 140 minutes each week. While the amount of meditating is the same in both cases, a daily streak adds structure, thus simplifying decision making, and encourages the person to regularly engage in a beneficial behavior.

Streaks can serve to gamify the underlying activity by creating rules and quantifying the outcome, and many people enjoy the challenge of a game.

Finally, I found that activities that are more relevant to one’s identity are more likely to generate commitment to a streak. If someone identifies as religious, a daily streak of praying may be more appealing than a daily streak of playing Wordle because a praying streak can provide a way of demonstrating one’s desired identity to others.

While streaks can compel behavior, they do not motivate all people for all situations. They can even have the opposite effect. Some people are turned off by the prospect of a streak because they’re concerned about being obligated to it, as reflected in the comments of a former streak runner: “I realized that, if I let it, the streak could become a ‘thing’ that controlled my life, my travel, and those around me.”

Streaks and the new year

As the calendar turns to a new year, many people resolve to engage in self-improving behaviors that facilitate better mental or physical health. People often begin streaks on Jan. 1 or other important dates, such as holidays, birthdays or anniversaries of noteworthy events. Such temporal landmarks add meaning and structure to the streak and create a “fresh start effect.”

While many people make New Year’s resolutions, only a small percentage of people complete them. My research suggests that structuring a resolution as a streak may be the nudge that some people need to stick with it further into the new year – and maybe far beyond.

The New Year represents a fresh start and is the perfect time to invest in your health. However, you may be unsure what resolutions will have the biggest impact. Doctors say that the easy, tangible actions you take are some of the most important.

“Many people kick off the start of each new year with big-picture health resolutions,” says Jack Resneck, Jr., M.D., president of the American Medical Association (AMA). “The good news is that small, positive health choices made right now can have long-lasting effects.”

Want to get started today? Here are 10 resolutions the AMA recommends top your list this year:

1. Exercise is essential for your physical and mental health, so get moving today. A good rule of thumb for adults is at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity.

2. Vaccination is the best protection against a number of serious illnesses. To protect yourself and your family, get up to date on your vaccines, including the annual flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. Your doctor can let you know if you’re due for a COVID booster. If you have questions, speak with your physician and review trusted resources, including getvaccineanswers.org.

3. Get screened. Estimates based on statistical models show that since April 2020, millions of screenings for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer diagnoses may have been missed due to pandemic-related care disruptions. Check in with your physician. If you’re due for preventive care, tests or screenings, make an appointment. These measures are designed to keep you healthy and help your doctor spot certain conditions before they become more serious.

4. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can increase your risk of heart attack or stroke, and it affects millions of Americans. Visit ManageYourBP.org to understand what your blood pressure numbers mean and what you can do to get your blood pressure under control.

5. One in 3 American adults has prediabetes, a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes if left unmanaged. However, there are steps you can take that can help delay or even prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes. Learn your risk by taking a simple 2-minute self-screening test at DoIHavePrediabetes.org. This resource also features helpful lifestyle tips that can help you reverse prediabetes.

6. Whenever possible, drink water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages and replace processed foods — especially those with added sodium and sugar — with nutritious, whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, herbs and spices.

7. If consuming alcohol, drink only in moderation. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines that as up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men, and only by adults of legal drinking age.

8. Speak with your doctor or health care professional about quitting tobacco and nicotine use. Declare your home and car smokefree to eliminate secondhand smoke exposure.

9. Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking prescription drugs – especially opioids. Always store and dispose of these medications safely to prevent misuse. Whenever prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as directed. Not taking the full course can lead to antibiotic resistance, a serious public health problem, and will not make you feel better if you have a virus, such as a cold or flu.

10. Invest in your mental health by managing stress, getting sufficient sleep, exercising and seeking help from a mental health professional when you need it.

For a healthy 2026 and beyond, invest in your wellness with these doctor-recommended New Year’s resolutions.

POLKTON – For Apogee Anson students and families, the classroom doesn’t always have four walls. Sometimes it stretches across open fields, wooded trails, and quiet stands beneath the early morning sky.

That philosophy was on full display during Apogee’s annual Heritage Hunt, held recently at Four Branches Sporting Preserve, where Trailblazers and their families gathered for a day centered on tradition, outdoor learning, and meaningful connection.

The event brought together students and their mentors: fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, and other guiding figures, for an experience rooted in patience, presence, and respect for the outdoors. From sunrise to sunset, participants stepped away from daily routines and immersed themselves in a setting designed to encourage reflection, responsibility, and togetherness.

Several Trailblazers successfully harvested a buck or doe during the hunt, milestones that reflected careful preparation, discipline, and respect for the process. Organizers emphasized that the experience went beyond harvesting, focusing instead on lessons in stewardship, gratitude, and awareness of the natural world.

Even those who did not harvest an animal took part in learning moments, observing wildlife, understanding conservation practices, and experiencing the quiet stillness that comes with time spent outdoors. The hunt served as an opportunity to slow down, listen, and appreciate traditions passed down through generations.

Apogee leaders expressed gratitude to Four Branches Sporting Preserve for once again opening its land and supporting the continuation of the annual event. They also highlighted the role of mentors who stood beside students throughout the day, modeling not only hunting skills but values such as patience, humility, and connection.

“At Apogee, we believe the world is our classroom,” organizers shared. “Some of the most impactful lessons happen when boots are muddy, hearts are full, and stories are shared under an open sky.”

As the Heritage Hunt continues to grow, it remains a defining example of Apogee’s commitment to experiential learning, where education, family and tradition meet in the outdoors.

WADESBORO – At the midpoint of the season, the Anson varsity boys basketball team has established itself as a confident and competitive group, posting an 8-1 overall record and positioning itself well as conference play continues.

Head coach Matt Mcleod said confidence has been the defining characteristic of his team so far, even as he acknowledges there is still room for growth.

“Halfway through the season I would describe this team as confident,” he said. “I know that we’re a work in progress and we have a lot of areas that we must grow in despite the record, but the boys believe they can play with and compete against anyone.”

That belief, he said, has remained steady regardless of opponent or venue. While the coaching staff often worries about preparation and execution, the players have maintained a calm demeanor that has translated to consistent results on the count.

“I’m always nervous about if we have done enough in practice and preparation,” he said, “but the players are always calm and confident, and I love that about us.”

Beyond wins and losses, the coach pointed to the team’s chemistry as a major strength. He said the group has quickly embraced a team-first mindset, celebrating each other’s success rather than individual achievements.

“Maybe not surprised me, but how quickly we have bought in to not just playing for ourselves, but our teammates,” he said. “Winning helps, but we are a group that is happy for each other’s success.”

Early in the season, Anson leaned heavily on its size, physicality, and effort, particularly on the offensive glass. As the season has progressed, however, the team has shown noticeable growth on the offensive end, expanding its scoring options.

“We have seen the most offensive growth from the start of the season to now,” the coach said. “We started the year understanding our strength was our size and our willingness to play hard and offensive rebounding, but over the last few games we have shot the ball well from the 3-point line.”

That perimeter improvement has been led by Cordarius Bivens, Josiah Wall, and Graham Davis, giving Anson a more balanced attack and making it tougher for opponents to focus solely on defending the paint.

Despite the offensive growth, the team’s identity remains rooted in effort and physical play. The coach emphasized that Anson’s size advantage continues to be a key factor, particularly when Taviane Robinson is active on both ends of the floor.

“Our identity is still being bigger and playing harder than our opponents more than any X’s and O’s,” he said. “When Taviane Robinson is active and engaged on both sides of the court, we are playing our best basketball.”

Robinson’s presence in the post, combined with point guard Keshun Sturdivant’s leadership, has helped the team find rhythm and consistency, especially in close games.

As Anson moves deeper into conference play and the second half of the season, the focus shifts to execution and attention to detail. While effort has carried the team this far, the coach said continued success will require pairing that intensity with sharper execution.

“I believe we are going to play harder than our opponents each night,” he said. “Now we have to execute it while doing that. It’s a work in progress, but if we want to accomplish our goals, it’s going to take more than just playing hard.”

South Piedmont Community College proudly celebrated its nursing graduates during a Nursing Pinning Ceremony held on Dec.12 at 4 p.m. in Building A at the Old Charlotte Highway Campus. The pinning ceremony is a long-standing nursing tradition that symbolizes the student’s transition from the classroom to the profession and honors their commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.

Family members, friends, faculty, and staff gathered to recognize the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of the graduates as they prepare to enter the healthcare workforce. The ceremony included remarks from Executive Director of Nursing Ashley Steagall, who applauded the students for their resilience and passion for service.

“We are incredibly proud of these nursing graduates,” said Ashley Steagall. “Their dedication, perseverance, and commitment to excellence throughout the program have prepared them well for the profession. We congratulate each graduate on this significant milestone and look forward to the positive impact they will make in the communities they serve.”

The following students were recognized during the ceremony:

Mary Bowers

Emma Deberardinis

Cierra Demings

Megan Green

Sarah Haack

Robert Henderson

Kayla Koch

Gracin McCormick

Thandiwe Mkandla

Janet Ogedegbe

Tricia Sack

Jessica Spurlock

Brianna Stachniak Skinner

Johanna Walters

Nini Wu

South Piedmont Community College congratulates these graduates and wishes them continued success as they begin their careers in nursing and healthcare service.

RICHMOND COUNTY — Although we are just now beginning the winter season, small ruminant owners should still be regularly checking their animals for internal parasites, especially if they have a lambing or kidding season that kicks off in early spring.

Generally speaking, stomach worm populations, such as the Barberpole worm, accumulate over the summer grazing season. This buildup creates internal parasite issues in goats and sheep especially in the late summer months, when there is adequate moisture. Most stomach worms like a warm, moist environment. Temperatures around 85 degrees Fahrenheit coupled with high humidity and moisture make an ideal environment for the eggs to hatch and develop into larvae. With that being said, winter is one of the best times of the year to make a plan and get a handle on your herd’s worm issues before the numbers are out of control in warmer weather. Since the Barberpole worm is one of the most significant internal parasites in small ruminants, this article will concentrate on managing this particular species.

Before we begin managing internal parasites, it’s important to understand their general lifecycle. In our area, mild winters are not cold enough to kill all worm larvae so stomach worms can over winter in the ground or even in the animal’s digestive system. The worms that were able to overwinter deep in the stomach of the animal are called arrested larva which lay dormant until they are triggered by a stress such as kidding or lambing. After breaking dormancy, these arrested larvae mature into stomach worms and produce eggs. These eggs are shed from the animal and deposited to the ground in their feces.

About a week or so after worm larvae hatch from their eggs in a manure pellet, they climb up 2 to 3 inches onto grass blades that goats and sheep consume. When the animal ingests the larvae, they attach and feed on the true stomach and intestine linings which can be damaged or irritated. This damage reduces the amount of nutrients that an animal can absorb during digestion. Additionally, some eggs are re-deposited back to the ground in manure, continuing the infectious cycle.

If left unchecked, stomach worms will cause weight loss, stunted growth, anemia, poor conception rates and can even cause death. To get an idea of how heavy a worm load is, periodically examine your animals. Things that usually indicate heavy worm infestations are: thin body condition, weight loss, rough hair coat, pale or white tongue and inner eyelids, and diarrhea. If you are properly feeding your animals but they exhibit these symptoms then you may need to implement some management options. Here are some tips goat and sheep owners can use to manage worm loads in their livestock:

● Provide your animals with a nutritious diet for a good immune system;

● Divide up large pastures to allow for rotational grazing; keeping animals off an area of pasture for a minimum of 21 days can help reduce parasites by cutting off the route of reinfection;

● Graze above the worms by keeping pasture grass at least 4 inches high;

● Reduce contamination by keeping feed elevated and off of the ground;

● Keeping water troughs and feed bunks clean will also reduce worm ingestion;

● Monitor parasite loads by using FAMACHA (checking paleness inner eyelids) or fecal egg counts;

● Time dewormings around kidding and lambing season;

● Refrain from using worm blocks (it’s hard to measure a single animal’s intake);

● Feeding copper boluses to goats may help reduce Barber Pole worm infestations;

● When using recommended dewormers: Rotate chemical classes and selectively treat animals to minimize resistance. Resistance occurs when the pest is routinely exposed to the same chemical over time, enabling new generations to develop which are unaffected by the treatment;

● Work with a veterinarian who is familiar with internal parasite issues in your area to provide “extra-label” dewormer recommendations.

Internal parasites are a significant issue in small ruminant management. Adopting good management practices, such as rotational grazing and good sanitation, will help reduce infective parasites in your herd or flock. It is also important that producers employ these best management practices to slow internal parasite resistance to our dewormers so that they can continue to be effective on our target parasites. If you have any questions concerning livestock management please call the Richmond County Extension office at 910-997-8255.

As the new year creeps in, I’ve come to the realization that I’ve actually read far more books than I anticipated. Making myself my own case study did the trick. Setting the bar low for my reading goal propelled me into success. I’ve always hyperfixated on reaching a number because I wanted to prove to myself that I could hit a goal, but after deleting the Goodreads app a million times, I forgot about that goal and found myself reading children’s books just to avoid feeling like a failure. Now I’m on book 26 for the year, without any rush, and I’m over the moon because I’m becoming the bookworm I once was.

I tried to keep things fresh by reading an array of genres, straying a bit from my rom-com safety net and venturing more into thrillers and autobiographies.

During the fall, I started “The Housemaid” series after seeing it was getting a film adaptation. A book-to-movie pipeline seems to be a major motivator for picking up a book because I want to offer my two cents on whether the adaptation does it justice. I finished the first book in four hours, so it’s safe to say I’m obsessed. I do think the first book is the best one, but overall it’s a solid series if you enjoy plot twists.

I’ve also done my fair share of rereading because I enjoy going down memory lane. I’ve been listening to “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac on constant repeat this year, with the lyrics “Climbed a mountain and I turned around / And I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills” engraved in my brain. The beauty of rereading books you know like the palm of your hand is catching Easter eggs you might have missed the first time. With the upcoming adaptation of “The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping,” I reread the entire series. I’ll never forget reading it in seventh grade out of spite after my teacher told my mom I needed to read an actual book instead of being on Facebook. To be fair, she had a point.

I was browsing the book section at a grocery store the other day when I noticed that the “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” series is now in the double digits. I remember when it was first released back in elementary school, buying the books and scented erasers at the book fair. One, I’m showing my age. Two, I’m very tempted to read the series. I’m still 50/50 on being team e-book or team physical because I enjoy both and each has its pros and cons, so for now I’ll keep using both formats. Some pieces of literature require a well-loved, flimsy paperback from your local library, while others are perfectly fine as an e-book downloaded onto your iPad. I absolutely refuse audiobooks. They unfortunately, or fortunately, lull me to sleep.

Social media, especially BookTok on TikTok, has also pushed me to read more. To the content creators who offer recommendations based on books I’ve loved, thank you. Most of the time, they hit the nail on the head and introduce me to new bodies of work. By next year, I hope to read between 30 and 40 books. If I don’t, at least I know I’ll still be reading something and that feels like a win.

The holiday season is full of faith and celebration. Even though people may believe this important time begins at the start of December, for millions of the Christians, the Twelve Days of Christmas begin with the birth of Baby Jesus on December 25 and continue through the Epiphany on January 6.

The Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day, is a Christian feast day that “celebrates the revelation of God in His Son as human in Jesus Christ,” says The National Shrine of Saint Jude. The Epiphany is celebrated on January 6 each year and gets its name from the Greek word meaning “to reveal, or manifestation,” a nod to the idea that this was the day Jesus was revealed to the world.

On the Epiphany, three Magi visited the Christ child to pay homage. These wise men were the first to greet Jesus after his parents. The Magi followed a star to Bethlehem, having faith that the Child’s location would be accurate. The unlikely royal visitors bestowed gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. These herbs are typically used in burial ceremonies, and their offering may have potentially foreshadowed Jesus’ destiny.

According to Father Hezekias Carnazzo, a Melkite Catholic priest and founding executive director of the Virginia-based Institute of Catholic Culture, the Feast of the Epiphany is one of the earliest feasts and actually predates the celebration of Christmas.

Although the Epiphany is an important date for Christians and many celebrate it, celebrants in Spain and Latin America consider it as important as Christmas Day. Within these nations Día de los Reyes (Three Kings Day) is a time for serving Rosca de Reyes, an oval-shaped treat that has a small doll inside to represent Baby Jesus. The figurine symbolizes the hiding of the infant Jesus from King Herod’s troops. Children also receive the majority of their gifts on Three Kings Day. It is customary for kids to place their old shoes with a wish list on them for the Three Kings. On the morning of January 6, the shoes are filled with toys and gifts.

The Epiphany is celebrated in various ways around the world. In the Czech Republic, people swim in the freezing cold Vltava River and men dress up as the Magi before riding camels through Prague’s city center. Three Kings Bread, similar to the Rosca de Reyes and called Dreikönigskuchen, is prepared and consumed in Germany and Switzerland.

Christmas fanfare does not cease when the calendar turns from December 25 to 26. The Epiphany on January 6 also is an important day of celebration.

Towering evergreen trees adorned in lights and other trinkets are a focal point of the holiday season.

Christmas trees are placed in prominent locations in homes, typically in front of a large picture window or in the corners of large entryways. These awe-inspiring trees beckon people to inspect all of the ornaments and often are the first thing people envision when thinking of holiday decor.

The tradition of the Christmas tree is believed to have begun in Germany in the sixteenth century. However, the National Christmas Tree Association says there may be earlier references to Christmas trees in other parts of the world as well.

The first written record of a decorated Christmas tree comes from Riga, Latvia, in 1510. Men of a local merchant’s guild decorated the tree with roses and then set fire to it. The rose was considered a symbol of the Virgin Mary.

In the sixteenth century in Alsace, France, trees were sold in the marketplace and brought home and set up undecorated. Laws limited the size to “eight shoe lengths” or slightly more than four feet.

Early German Christmas trees were adorned with apples, a holdover from earlier traditions when evergreen boughs hung with apples were used as props in miracle plays. These plays took place in churches on December 24, which was Adam & Eve’s Day in the early Christian calendar.

Evergreens have long been symbolic of life during the cold months of winter, calling to mind the promise of spring to come. Various cultures, including early Christians, featured trees during winter solstice celebrations. Some historians believe Martin Luther, a Protestant reformer who might have been inspired by stars in the night, was responsible for adding lighted candles to the Christmas tree.

The Christmas tree was introduced to the United States by German settlers in the 1800s. Soon after those settlers’ arrival, trees began to be sold commercially. President Franklin Pierce is credited with having the first Christmas tree at the White House.

Today, Christmas trees are wildly popular, with the American Christmas Tree Association reporting that 94 percent of U.S. consumers plan to display one

Christmas celebrations span the globe. According to a 2025 report from the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, there are roughly 2.6 billion Christians worldwide, a figure that undoubtedly contributes to the popularity of Christmas. Christianity continues to have the most adherents of any religion in the world, and the Christian population is expected to top three billion before 2050.

Christians bring unique cultural touches to their Christmas celebrations each year. Celebrations vary widely, and here’s a look at some notable Christmas traditions across the globe.

Yule Goat

The Yule Goat is a Christmas tradition in Sweden. The goat is believed to be an invisible spirit that ensures that Yule preparations are done correctly. A popular theory connects the goat to the Norse god Thor, who rode a chariot pulled by two goats.

Krampus

While many people celebrate the benevolence of Santa Claus, some celebrate a much grumpier alter-ego of sort. Krampus is a man-goat, half-demon monster who punishes misbehaving children at Christmastime, says Britannica. He is the evil companion of St. Nicholas, and is believed to have originated in Germany. His name comes from the German word “krampen,” which means, “claw.”

Christmas chicken

Christmas Eve is a popular romantic occasion for couples and families in Japan. In addition to gift-giving and a romance, many people choose to feast on a meal of KFC fried chicken and strawberry shortcake for dessert.

Roller-skating to Mass

In the city of Caracas, Venezuela, it’s customary for Christmas Eve celebrants to roller skate to early morning Mass. Known as “Misa de Aguinaldo,” these special church services take place on the days leading up to Christmas, with the most festive held on December 24. On this day, the streets of Caracas are closed to automobiles, enabling revelers to cheerfully skate to church.

Mummering

In Newfoundland, Canada, celebrants known as mummers dress in elaborate disguises featuring mismatched clothing and whimsical accessories. The mummers obscure their identities and visit neighbors’ homes during the 12 days of Christmas, performing songs, skits or dances while others attempt to guess their identities.

Las Posadas

In some Hispanic regions, including Mexico, participants reenact Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter in Bethlehem through vibrant processions. They travel from house to house, singing traditional songs and requesting shelter only to be turned away until they reach a final home or church that will symbolically welcome them in.

Spiderweb decorations

Individuals in Ukraine decorate their Christmas trees with artificial spider webs. This tradition is inspired by a tale of a poor widow and her children who didn’t have money for tree ornaments. Upon waking up on Christmas morning, they found their tree covered in sparkling, glimmering spider webs that resembled tinsel. A spider had spun the beautiful display as thanks for finding shelter and warmth in the family’s humble abode. Today’s spider webs symbolize unexpected blessings and gratitude.

Plenty of unique touches set Christmastime celebrations apart across the globe.

December is brimming with festive holidays designed to celebrate family, friends and good fortune. While Christmas and Chanukah may dominate the holiday landscape this time of year, African American and Pan-African cultures observe a week-long celebration known as Kwanzaa from December 26 to January 1.

Kwanzaa is designed to affirm African family and social values. It is primarily celebrated in the United States and is not a religious holiday, setting it apart from events like Christmas and Chanukah. The name of the holiday and the celebration were the brainchild of Maulana Karenga, a professor of Africana studies at California State University, Long Beach. Karenga borrowed the word “kwanza,” meaning “first,” from the Swahili phrase “matunda ya kwanza.” He added an extra letter “a” to the word to make it a seven-letter word to coordinate with the seven children present at an early Kwanzaa celebration in the mid-1960s, as well as the seven principles of the holiday, according to Britannica. The notion of the holiday is rooted in first fruit celebrations, which are found in cultures throughout Africa both in ancient and modern times.

The values that are the tenets of this festival include Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). These principles were drawn from the values found throughout Africa. Each day of the celebration is dedicated to one of the seven principles.

Seven symbols embody the holiday, including fruits, vegetables and nuts; a straw mat; a candleholder; ears of corn; gifts; a communal unity cup; and seven candles in the colors of red, green and black. Families come together to light one of the candles in the kinara (candleholder) each day, and discuss the day’s principle.

On December 31, participants join in a community feast, and many people wear traditional African clothing. The feast includes foods from African, African American and Caribbean traditions. Dishes enjoyed during Kwanzaa include candied yams, fried chicken, jerk chicken, jollof rice, gumbo, and collard greens. CBC Kids News says celebrants also play drums and dance during Kwanzaa festivities.

Kwanzaa unites Black communities and helps to celebrate heritage, culture and community spirit. The holiday rounds out the year with ritual and celebration.

NORTH POLE — Finally, the night that millions of kids have been waiting anxiously for all year has arrived: Christmas Eve.

The trees are decorated, stockings are hung, cookies are baked and presents are wrapped. All that’s left now is the appearance of the big man himself — Santa Claus.

Despite his busy schedule, Santa took a little time out to conduct a interview (by phone of course) on the eve of his worldly travels delivering presents. The following is a transcript of that phone call.

Well, Santa — may we call you Santa? — we sure do appreciate you speaking with us today as of course it must be your busiest time of the year.

Santa: “Oh, you can call me Santa. If you say ‘Mr. Claus’ I start looking around for my father. No, ‘Santa’ will do just fine. And as far as the time, it’s no problem — the truth is people have a tendency to think I only work one day a year but really, building all those toys, it’s a year round job.”

All those countries, all those kids, in just one night … How do you manage it?

Santa: “Easy. Magic. People tend not to believe in magic anymore but that doesn’t make it any less real. There’s magic everywhere, you just have to know where to look. Everything about Christmas is magical.”

Do you really have a list of naughty and nice kids?

Santa: “Oh, it’s not just the kids. Grown-ups too. There’s a misconception out there I only bring presents to little girls and boys but really I bring them to everyone who is good and still believes. If you didn’t get a present, you might just want to check and see if you weren’t on the naughty list after all … “

What about coal? You never hear about kids getting coal anymore.

Santa: “The thing about the coal was it was completely misunderstood. You see, not so long ago, many homes needed coal for warmth and cooking. It wasn’t a sign of being naughty — on the contrary — only the most selfless kids would ask for coal in lieu of gifts.”

When kids set out a plate of cookies for you, do you have a favorite?

Santa: “Yes. But no, I’m not going to tell you what it is. Mrs. Claus makes a very tasty gingerbread cookie that I’m quite fond of but any kids who take the time to leave me a snack is doing just right by me. And my reindeer are very thankful for those who remember to add a little carrots or apple slices to the plate. Especially Cupid — he has a bit of a glucose issue and needs to eat every few hours.”

Who makes your suit? And is red your favorite color?

Santa: “Mrs. Claus makes me a new suit every year and yes, red is my favorite. But most of the year I wear green and brown — you know, traditional elf colors. I am a ‘jolly old elf’ after all …”

How about Christmas carols? Any of those stick with you?

Santa: “I really like ‘Sleigh Ride.’ It’s very lively and upbeat and I very much enjoy the trombone part. Yes, I think that’s my favorite — although I am partial to that rock version of ‘Carol of the Bells’ as well.

Santa was gracious and kind throughout the interview but in the end he had to go because (as he gently reminded us) he really “was quite busy tonight.”

Santa: “I do want to wish a Merry Christmas to everyone and to thank all the people who wrote me such kind letters. Until next year!”

On Christmas Eve, millions of children across the country will set out a plate of milk and cookies as a snack for Santa Claus — a “thank you” for the gifts he leaves in stockings and under the Christmas tree.

The tradition has been going strong in the United States for nearly a century, but it didn’t use to be the case. Older tradition had the ritual reversed with stockings hung by the chimney stuffed with sweets for Santa, not from him.

But leaving cookies for Santa didn’t just start 100 years ago, it goes back. Way back. In fact, many scholars believe its roots can be traced back to thousands of years ago — all the way to Norse mythology.

Have you ever heard of Odin?

According to mythology, Odin was the king and ruler of the gods of Asgard and every year, he would lead out a spectacular Yuletide hunting party.

His sleigh — yes, he had a sleigh — was pulled by an eight-legged horse named Sleipnir. Kids would leave out treats (apples, water and hay) for the horse to try and entice him to stop by their house. Once there, Odin would leave gifts for young ones as gratitude for feeding his beloved horse.

Even today, many Dutch families continue the tradition and would never think of going to bed on Christmas Eve without leaving out a carrot or two for good ol’ Sleipnir.

The thing about traditions is they rarely have a singular source — and cookies for Santa is no different.

If you turn from the Netherlands to Germany, one could make the argument that our offering of cookies to the man in red is an evolution of the decorations that people hung around traditional paradise trees.

A paradise tree was basically an earlier version to today’s Christmas tree only it was decorated with real food — preferably sweet things — like apples, breads and cookies.

The story over there goes that Santa, wiped out from his long journey, would snack on the tree’s decorations as he laid out gifts for the children. When people eventually made the switch from edible ornaments to glass ones, children fretted about Santa going hungry and began to leave “the decorations” out on a plate for him.

In America, it is generally agreed upon that although the tradition may have began in Europe, it was strengthened here during the depression when many parents wanted to teach their children that it was better to give than receive.

Many families, without the money to buy gifts, would instead scrounge up what baking materials they could and would leave cookies for Santa in lieu of gifts for themselves. It was a way for parents to keep the holiday magic alive for little ones when there was no money for anything else.

No matter where the idea comes from, it is a tradition unlikely to end anytime soon. For now, the only thing really left up for debate on the matter of leaving cookies for Santa is: Which kind of cookie is his favorite?

Our money’s on chocolate chip.

Certain holiday images have been ingrained in the minds of the public. Coca-Cola’s smiling bearded Santa Claus, in his now universally recognized red coat, helped create a model from which all other Santas evolved. And an early 20th century artist and illustrator helped to establish the feelings of the Christmas season for millions with portraits featured on the covers of The Saturday Evening Post.

Norman Rockwell was born in New York City in 1894 and dreamt of becoming an artist when he was young. Rockwell received his first commission at age 17 and illustrated for Boy’s Life, the monthly magazine of the Boy Scouts of America. In 1916, Rockwell was hired by The Saturday Evening Post. When Rockwell began working for the Post, his humorous and dead-pan depictions of American life tugged at the heartstrings of the public - even if they weren’t so adored by art critics.

Rockwell spent 47 years working for this iconic magazine. Rockwell produced paintings for the Post and other publications that depicted key images in American history, including Charles Lindbergh’s crossing of the Atlantic, the Moon Landing and World War II. However, some of Rockwell’s most beloved work pertains to his holiday scenes.

Rockwell used real people as his models, and every detail in his reproduction paintings of photographs was fastidiously planned, say biographers. Over time, Rockwell’s paintings helped define an idealized vision of American life and Christmas celebrations. Even now people seek to emulate the merriment and magic exemplified in Rockwell’s imagery - from tired toy store clerks to a boy discovering Santa kissing his mom to the great holiday dinner. Rockwell produced 29 Christmas covers as well as greeting cards and other holiday scenes.

The holiday season would not be the same without the work of artist Norman Rockwell. His influential images helped reflect a glorified version of American life and have helped to make the holiday season even more special for millions of people.

We can only wonder what the world would be like if Jesus had not come — really, what if Christmas had never existed? For 400 years, the world was in spiritual darkness. There was no prophetic word, for prophecy had been silenced. The Holy Spirit was not at work. It was as if God had closed up heaven.

In our high-tech world, where we can go around the globe through the internet, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube, can we imagine not hearing a word from the Lord for 400 years? That is longer than any of us have lived, meaning that in our lifetime there would be no preaching, no teaching, no Bible study, no missionary or outreach ministry, no Bibles, no churches, no choirs, no youth ministry. In fact, the church would not exist if baby Jesus had not come.

But all of the saints in the Bible did not have any of these things. Jesus Himself, being the Word made flesh, did not have anybody He could count on among His own disciples. In fact, one of His own — one who ate bread with Him — sold Him out. Yet Jesus came. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not (John 1:11). Yet through 42 generations, He came to Bethlehem.

But what if He did not come 2,000 years ago? Think about that for a moment. What would the world be like if there were no Christmas? If He had not come, there would be no Christmas lights, no Christmas decorations, no “Silent Night, Holy Night.” We could not sing “Joy to the World, the Lord Is Come, let earth receive her King,” or “Away in a Manger, no crib for a bed; the little Lord Jesus lay down His sweet head.” There would be no “Go Tell It on the Mountain,” because there would be nothing to tell.

There would be no Christmas spirit that we feel at this time of year; no “Merry Christmas” greetings, no Christmas cards, Christmas trees, Christmas dinners, Christmas presents, no Christmas music, Christmas plays, wreaths, cookies, cakes, pies and everything else surrounding the holiday.

What if the Savior had not been born? Then the shepherds who were keeping watch over their flock by night would not have seen the light that shone from heaven. The heavenly host would not have appeared. The wise men would not have seen the star in the east and visited Him two years later. The prophetess Anna would not have recognized Him in the temple, and Simeon — who was told he would not die until he had seen the Messiah — would have died without seeing the promised Savior.

We would not be able to congregate on Sunday morning. The love of God would not be shed abroad in our hearts. There would be no miracles, and those of us who have been healed by Him or touched by Him would not have experienced it. We would not be able to pray, because we could not pray in His name.

Death would still have its sting. The grave would still have its victory. Sin would still have power over us, and Satan would not have been defeated. Think about it — what if? All that we know about Christmas would not be.

But He came.

He kept His word. He did not come not knowing what to expect. He came knowing that He would be rejected by the ones He came to save. He came knowing that He would not be appreciated, that even His own brothers would not believe Him. He came into a hostile world, knowing He would be betrayed by one of His own, denied and forsaken by His own disciples — yet He came anyway.

Paul said, “For when the fullness of time had come — meaning the right time — God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the law” (Galatians 4:4-7). God the Father sent the Son to die for us, and God the Son sent His Spirit to live in us. At the right time, He came.

Despite the fact that when He prayed in the garden His sweat would be like great drops of blood, still He came. He came knowing the religious leaders would hate Him, plot to kill Him, and that His own disciples would run off and leave Him by Himself. Still, He came. He knew He would be brutally beaten, slapped, spit on and ridiculed — that He who knew no sin would become sin for us — still He came.

We worry ourselves sick about what we think is going to happen, and much of what we worry about never happens. But Jesus knew what was going to happen to Him, and still He came. He knew that when He was born, Herod would kill all the babies trying to kill Him, that Joseph and Mary would have to flee. Our Savior knew the people would cry, “Crucify Him,” that Pilate would wash his hands of Him, and that He would be brutally scourged, that the hair would be plucked from His face and a crown of thorns pressed down on His head, causing blood to run.

He knew the nails used to nail Him to the cross would be five to nine inches long, driven through His wrists — not His palms. Now, He could have said, “The heck with this. If this is the way they are going to be, I’m going back to glory.” He could have left us to ourselves.

But still, He came.

With all of that in His view, still He came.

Joy to the world — the Lord did come.

Let earth receive her King.

For most of us, the holidays invoke memories of our childhood. The aroma of baked holiday desserts, meats, and delicious side dishes reminds us of holidays past. The holidays are also a time when we are inspired to try new recipes and begin new traditions.

The spices used to cook holiday meals are a huge part of what makes the meals and our time together so special. Most of our favorite holiday spices originated from other countries. Let’s explore the origin and uses of traditional holiday spices.

A very popular spice used during the holidays is cinnamon. It can be found in “pumpkin spice” beverages, sweet breads, pies, hot chocolate, and even savory dishes, such as turkey chili, lamb, butternut squash, and many more. Cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka; it is also cultivated in South America and the West Indies. Believe it or not, because cinnamon had so many important uses throughout the world, it was once considered more valuable than gold. In Egypt and medieval Europe, it was used for religious practices. In medieval Europe, it was also used to flavor foods. For the Dutch, it was the most profitable spice in the Dutch East India Company in the 1600s and 1700s, according to Britannica. Today, cinnamon can be purchased in powder or as “sticks” of dried inner bark. Cinnamon sticks are best used in recipes that require slow cooking, which allows the cinnamon to slowly infuse into the dish. Ground cinnamon has a stronger flavor and can be added to quick-cooking dishes for lots of flavor. When substituting ground cinnamon for cinnamon sticks, it is important not to overdo it. Start by using ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon per cinnamon stick and add more to taste, if needed.

Nutmeg is another spice associated with the holidays. Nutmeg is native to the Banda Islands of Indonesia. Nutmegs must be of high quality when sold for spice. It goes well with eggnog, baked and stewed fruit, fruit cake, onion based and milk based sauces, curries, and more. The oils found in nutmeg are the major source of flavor; once nutmeg is ground it loses some of the strength of its flavor. Fresh ground nutmeg is the most flavorful. You can test the quality of nutmegs by inserting a darning needle into the meat of the nutmeg if oil seeps out the nutmeg is good. Nutmeg is safe for those with nut allergies, as nutmeg is actually not a nut but a seed.

Cloves smell wonderful during the holidays. In fact, cloves were said to be held in the mouth of the Han-dynasty court so they would have fresh breath when in the presence of the emperor. Many people place coves in oranges at Christmas to give the home a wonderful scent during the holidays. This aromatic spice is believed to be native to the Spice Islands of Indonesia. Cloves are wonderful in beverages, hams, rice dishes, stewed fruits, and spice blends. Cloves can be purchased whole or ground. Whole cloves have a longer shelf life than ground cloves. When substituting ground cloves for whole cloves or vice versa, a rule of thumb is ¾ teaspoons of ground cloves per 1 teaspoon of whole cloves as called for in the recipe.

Ginger is a holiday favorite! There are gingerbread houses, ginger infused meats, custards, breads, and more. According to the National Library of Medicine, it is believed that the Chinese produced ginger as a tonic root for over 5000 years for medicinal purposes. Ground ginger is not as pungent as fresh ginger. If burned, ginger turns bitter. When substituting, remember that one tablespoon of fresh ginger equals ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger.

Tips for cooking with spices:

· To increase taste and quality of spices, buy whole spices if possible and grind as needed.

· Spices should be stored in a cool dry place. The temperature should be 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

· Don’t store spices in cabinets above the stove or near a window where sunlight can enter. Heat damages spices by drying up the oils that give them flavor.

· Don’t store spices in the freezer or refrigerator because this requires them to adjust to room temperature when preparing in recipes. This process can condense the spices, cause mold growth, and damage the spices.

Spices are an essential part of the holidays! The aromas and flavors create memories that will last a lifetime. While enjoying your holiday meals and desserts, take time to savor the spices and remember their rich history and their connection to your family’s holidays past.

If you would like to learn more about foods and nutrition contact Cheri Bennett NC Cooperative Extension-Richmond County Center, located at 123 Caroline Street, Rockingham, NC or call 910-997-8255. Visit our website at richmond.ces.ncsu.edu

NORTH CAROLINA — To support children entering foster care, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina’s (Blue Cross NC’s) Healthy Blue Care Together Medicaid managed care plan has teamed up with international non-profit Comfort Cases to launch the “Pathway to Comfort” program.

This transformative initiative provides backpacks filled with comfort and personal care items – like pajamas, stuffed animals and books – to children and youth entering foster care across North Carolina.

“At Healthy Blue Care Together, we believe every child deserves care, hope, and the opportunity to thrive — especially our children experiencing the child welfare system,” said CEO of Healthy Blue and Healthy Blue Care Together Angela Boykin. “Through the Pathway to Comfort program, and in partnership with local social service agencies, we’re making sure North Carolina’s children and youth in foster care receive the support they need from day one. Together, we’re building brighter futures for our children and our communities.”

When a child enters foster care, often they have only a few personal belongings, sometimes packed only in a trash bag. Each Comfort Cases backpack contains new pajamas, a blanket, a hygiene kit, a book, and more. These backpacks give children entering care something of their own, providing support during a difficult transition. Pathway to Comfort allows North Carolina social service agencies to order Comfort Cases for local children free of charge.

As of late 2024/early 2025, there are between approximately 10,500 and 12,000 children in foster care in North Carolina, depending on whether young adults (ages 18-21) are included. For example, one report indicates almost 10,899 children in care as of December 2024, while another cites over 10,500 in May 2025. The state faces a significant shortage of licensed foster families to care for these children.

“Pathway to Comfort is transforming how North Carolina supports children in foster care,” said Rob Scheer, Founder and CEO of Comfort Cases. “Along with Healthy Blue Care Together, we’re ensuring that comfort and dignity reach every corner of the state.”

In recognition of the unique health care needs of children in foster care and experiencing the child welfare system, North Carolina launched the new Children & Families Specialty Plan on Dec. 1. This statewide NC Medicaid managed care plan, which will be operated by Blue Cross NC as Healthy Blue Care Together, is part of North Carolina’s commitment to improving the long-term health and well-being of children experiencing foster care and the child welfare system. This statewide NC Medicaid managed care plan will provide Medicaid-enrolled children, youth and young adults served by child welfare with seamless, integrated health care.

As part of the ongoing partnership between Healthy Blue Care Together and Comfort Cases, nearly 2,000 Comfort Cases have been provided for North Carolina children this year alone.

WADESBORO – After more than a decade away from competition, the Anson High School Varsity Cheerleaders made a triumphant return the weekend before Thanksgiving, capturing first place in their division and earning the overall title of Grand Champions at the 2025-2026 Cheer Explosion held at E.E. Waddell High School. The victory marks the program’s first major win in more than 15-20 years and signals a renewed era of pride and progress for Anson High School.

The Bearcats had not competed in over ten years, focusing primarily on school spirit and sideline performances. Under newly appointed Varsity Coach Shannon Spencer, the team embraced longer practices, strengthened their skills, and built the trust needed to compete at a high level.

“This is more than cheerleading,” Coach Spencer said. “It’s about building confidence, opening doors for our athletes, and showing Anson County what teamwork can achieve.”

The competition team included Ayanna Fisher, Kamryn Harrington, Laniya Thomas, Jada Griffin, LaVayah Harvey, M’Kayla Coleman, Shi’Na Little, Abigail Crawford, Kayden Edwards, Jocelyn Parker, and Komoria Chambers. Their routine featured synchronized tumbling, tight formations, and strong energy that set them apart from other teams.

The athletes described the moment they were named Grand Champions as surreal.

“I felt so excited and ecstatic,” said Jada Griffin. “We really just did that, and we put everything together in a week.”

Before taking the mat, many said they felt nervous, but determined.

“I knew we had this,” said M’Kayla Coleman. “I remembered who I do this for, and I gave it my all.”

Preparing for the event wasn’t easy. Several cheerleaders said the toughest part was the long practices and the pressure of getting competition ready in a short amount of time. They leaned on each other to stay motivated.

“We crack jokes, dance, and hype each other up,” said Komoria Chambers. “That’s how we get through the long days.”

Principal Stinson expressed pride in the team’s achievement, noting their quick unity as a major factor in their success.

“Their ability to come together so quickly was impressive,” he said. “Through hard work, perseverance, and coachability, anything can be achieved.”

He said he hopes this season’s accomplishments lay out the groundwork for a legacy rooted in character, academics and athletic excellence.

The community response was immediate and enthusiastic. Parents, faculty, and supporters filled the stands, cheering loudly as Anson’s name was announced. Coach Spencer later thanked the community, her athletes and the school’s leadership for their support, emphasizing that this is only the beginning for the program.

With their historic comeback now complete, the Bearcats are already preparing for their next competition. Their return to the mat isn’t just a victory, it’s the start of something big for Anson Cheer, a program determined to rise, grow, and continue bringing championships home to Anson County.

That comment launched a journey no parent imagines. After undergoing genetic testing, only possible because we enrolled in a study at the National Institutes of Health, Sammy was diagnosed with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type 2I/R9, an ultra-rare muscle-wasting disease.

Today, Sammy is 17 — and working hard to be able to walk across the stage at her high school graduation next spring. Whether kids like Sammy can achieve their dreams depends on whether Congress renews the Pediatric Priority Review Voucher (PPRV) program, which expired in December 2024.

Created in 2012, PPRV introduced a much-needed incentive to spur innovation where traditional market dynamics fall short: rare pediatric diseases. It awards companies that develop and commercialize treatments for these conditions a transferable voucher for expedited FDA review of another therapy.

These vouchers can be used or sold, providing critical funding for small biotech firms. That capital supports continued research and development in areas where the patient population is so small that bringing a treatment to market might otherwise be financially unworkable.

For patients, the benefits can be life-saving. The program has helped bring dozens of treatments to nearly 40 rare pediatric disease populations — children who previously had few, if any, options.

The program also places no added burden on taxpayers. The FDA charges a supplemental fee — approximately $1.3 million in FY 2024 — when a voucher is redeemed, covering the resources required for accelerated review. It’s a rare policy that’s both budget-neutral and life-changing.

The need for renewal is urgent. Despite progress made in recent years, the vast majority of families are still waiting. Over 90% of known rare diseases — including LGMD2I/R9 — still have no approved treatment. When Sammy was diagnosed, there were no options. We were told that if we wanted something to change, we’d have to help make it happen ourselves.

So, we did. My husband Keith and I started a foundation, originally named after our daughter, but now known as CureLGMD2i. Our mission was to fund research and support other families facing the same challenges. Since then, we’ve contributed more than $1.4 million to help advance new therapies. Finally, clinical trials are underway that could help slow or stop the progression of Sammy’s disease.

PPRV helps make that kind of progress possible. By encouraging investment in conditions that often struggle to attract attention due to their rarity, the program gives families like ours something that’s often in too short supply: hope.

Rare diseases don’t care about party lines, polling data, or who holds the gavel. They affect families in every district and from every walk of life. The PPRV program — and the push to renew it — is the kind of thoughtful, patient-centered policy Congress should be able to rally behind.

Every day of delay means another family facing an uncertain future, another child wondering if they’ll reach the milestones most of us take for granted.

Congress has the power to change Sammy’s life — and the lives of children with rare diseases across the country. I hope they use it.