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Surry Living Magazine - January 2020

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January 2020

A lifestyle magazine highlighting Surry County and the surrounding area

Wellness Works! BONUS: Calendar guides to the area’s special events for Mount Airy, Elkin, Pilot Mountain, Dobson, and our nearby communities


Comprehensive care, close to home. Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital

Hugh Chatham Women’s Center

Clingman Medical Center

Parkwood Place Independent Living

180 Parkwood Drive, Elkin, NC 336-527-7000

3369 Clingman Road, Ronda, NC 336-994-3003

Hugh Chatham Behavioral Health

690 Parkwood Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-526-2619

Hugh Chatham Express Care – Dobson 911 East Atkins Street, Dobson, NC 336-374-1010

Hugh Chatham Family Medicine

156 Boomer Community Center Road, Boomer, NC 336-921-2273 5229 Rock Creek Road, Hays, NC 336-696-2711 600 Chatham Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-835-4819 546 Winston Road, Jonesville, NC 336-526-0037 127 East Main Street, Independence, VA 276-773-2865 22 Training Center Road, Woodlawn, VA 276-728-5334

Hugh Chatham Imaging Department

150 Parkwood Drive, Elkin, NC 336-835-5945

601 Johnson Ridge Road, Elkin, NC 336-526-6000

Regional Wound Center

800 Chatham Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-527-1033

Tri-County Orthopedic and Sports Medicine

400 Johnson Ridge Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-526-4500 1908 Caudle Drive, Suite 103, Mount Airy, NC 336-789-9041 233 Doctors Street, Sparta, NC 336-372-3003 546 Winston Road, Jonesville, NC 336-526-4500

Tri-County Orthopedic Outpatient Therapy 400 Johnson Ridge Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-835-0303

Yadkin Valley Adult Medicine

500 Chatham Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-835-3136

180 Parkwood Drive, Elkin, NC 336-527-7477

Hugh Chatham Internal Medicine

Yadkin Valley Dermatology

201-A Eldon Parks Drive, Elkin, NC 336-835-0165

360 Parkwood Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-258-8050

Hugh Chatham Neurology

101-B Eldon Parks Drive, Elkin, NC 336-526-0188

Hugh Chatham Podiatry

150 Chatham Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-835-7676

Hugh Chatham Surgical

101-A Eldon Parks Drive, Elkin, NC 336-835-2349

Hugh Chatham Urgent Care – Jonesville 546 Winston Road, Jonesville, NC 336-526-0037

Yadkin Valley Gastroenterology

201 West Main Street, Elkin, NC 336-526-6195

Yadkin Valley Home Health

560 Winston Road, Suite B, Jonesville, NC 336-526-6460

Yadkin Valley Pulmonary & Critical Care 600 Chatham Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-835-7298

Yadkin Valley Urology

200 Johnson Ridge Medical Park, Elkin, NC 336-526-0040

180 Parkwood Drive | Elkin, NC | 336-527-7000 | HughChatham.org


TOP 1% in the Nation for Patient Safety!

For the fourth consecutive year, Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital has been recognized as one of the safest hospitals in the nation. It takes an entire team to deliver exceptionally safe, high quality care, and we could not be more proud of our physicians, staff and volunteers who are dedicated to your good health – each and every day.


Advertiser Index Our advertisers make it possible to provide Surry Living FREE of charge. Please join us in thanking and supporting these outstanding merchants in our area:

a publication of vivid graphics SURRY LIVING MAGAZINE PO Box 6548 Mount Airy, NC 27030 surryliving.com • info@surryliving.com for editorial content submissions send to larry@surryliving.com

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• Reach more than 30,000 potential customers each month. • Complimentary monthly magazine distributed in hundreds of prime locations throughout Mount Airy, Elkin, Dobson, Pilot Mountain, Fancy Gap, and the surrounding areas including grocery stores, restaurants, medical offices, hotels, gift shops, and more. • Current and previous issues available for viewing and download at www.surryliving.com/ • Business Spotlight and Advertorial articles available. • Enhance your business image with our high-quality, four-color, heavy-gloss publication. • 30 days of advertising per month gives potential customers the chance to see your ad multiple times. • Multiple-insertion–discounted rates available! Surry Living Magazine’s Monthly Editorial Calendar is available on request by contacting our Sales Department at sales@surryliving.com FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION AND RATES, CONTACT US TODAY at (336) 648-3555 or by email at sales@surryliving.com • surryliving.com

www.facebook.com/SurryLiving Surry Living reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing. Submissions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Surry Living assumes no responsibility or liability for the information, services, products, claims, statements, accuracy, or intended or unintended results of any advertiser, editorial contributors, company, professional corporation, business or service provider herein this publication. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. 4 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue

13 Bones, Page 21 American Healthcare Services, Page 13 Anderson Audiology, Page 21 Blue Mountain Herbs & Supplements, Page 28 Breakfastime, Page 28 Charis Christian Book Store, Page 25 Cook Insurance Group, Page 27 Countryside RV, Page 7 Farmers Mulch & Rock, Page 9 Friendly Heating & Cooling, Inc., Page 5 Gingerhorse Studio, Page 16 Hilda's Place, Page 29 Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital, Pages 2, 3 Mount Airy Equipment, Page 14 Mullins Pawn Shop & Jewelers, Page 26 NC Cooperative Extension, Pages 22 & 28 North Carolina Weight & Wellness, Page 10 Northern Hospital of Surry County, Pages 17, 32 Plaza Del Sol Mexican Cuisine, Page 25 Ridgecrest Retirement, Page 31 Roy’s Diamond Center, Page 9 Royster & Royster Attorneys at Law, Page 15 Southwest Farm Supply, Page 29 Surry Communications, Page 19 The Cabins at White Sulphur Springs, Page 21 The Derby, Page 16 The Nest & Hive, Page 8 Westwood Medical, Page 7 WIFM Radio, Page 30 Zen Massage & Bodywork, Page 25

Now, for a limited time, you can get a FREE* Amazon Fire Stick with Voice Remote when you advertise with Surry Living Magazine. *Restrictions apply; while supplies last To advertise: (336) 648-3555 • sales@surryliving.com


FEATURED SECTIONS Friendly Heating & Cooling, Inc. SERVICE IS OUR BUSINESS!

HOME, FARM, & GARDEN p.8 * OUT & ABOUT p.16 * 8 The Vintage Southern

Homemaker: Gloria Brown shares memories and helpful tips

18 Gary York:

SIMPLY DELICIOUS p.20 *

Soup / Orange Winter Salad

Surry’s Long-Haul Trucking

26 Area Event Schedules: Fall is the best time to Calendar guides to events have your heat pump for Mount Airy, Elkin, Pilot inspectedMountain, and serviced. Dobson, and

Slow Down, Catch Up

nearbyout communities Don’t be left in the NOTE: Area calendars and cold – call us today! schedules are provided by local

20 The Sweet & Savory Life

with Rynn Hennings: Cheesy Chicken Vegetable

for Your Health

23 A Deeper Cut: A Novel,

Continues

11 This Little Light of Mine:

12 Joanna Radford: Gardening

ALL THE REST p.23

22 Carmen Long: Moving

municipalities and subject to

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15 Sarah Southard, DVM:

For the Birds

16 Gin Denton:

Gypsy Laurel

SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue • 5

Friendly


CONTRIBUTORS

Gloria Brown

Gin Denton

Sheri Wren Haymore

Rynn Hennings

Gloria is co-owner of The Nest & Hive Shoppe, a home décor business in Fancy Gap, VA, as well as the former host of The Vintage Southern Homemaker television show. Her musings on life growing up and living in the South have appeared in publications and on TV throughout the region. She is an expert antiques collector who grew up in the business and worked many years as a dealer in the Yadkin Valley area, where she currently resides.

Gin is the owner of Ginger Horse Studio. Her focus is lifestyle photography, covering horse shows, weddings, concerts, and doing on location portraits. Gin graduated from the University of Findlay with an Equine Business Management degree, where she also studied music and photography. She is a member of the Mount Airy Ukulele Invasion (MAUI) and the Granite City Rock Orchestra (GRO). Gin resides in Lowgap, NC with her family on their small horse farm.

Sheri grew up in Mt. Airy, NC, and lives thereabouts with her husband. Together they run a couple of small businesses and plan their next vacation. A graduate of High Point University, her first job was as a writer at a marketing firm—and she’s been scribbling ever since. Sheri has several suspense novels in publication and Surry Living is proud to include sequential excerpts from one of her books in each issue.

Rynn is a writer and designer based in the Yadkin Valley region of North Carolina. She loves to share her ideas for adding simple beauty into hectic lifestyles. More than mere recipes, her mission is to offer practical shortcuts for food preparation along with visual tips for presentation. Rynn began her career in Aiken, SC, as a newspaper reporter writing feature articles about food, living, and the arts.

Carmen Long

Kristen Owen

Joanna Radford

Sarah Southard

Carmen is an NC Cooperative Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences. Making quick, easy, healthy food that tastes great on a budget is a challenge. Carmen and her husband have two grown children, both of whom were involved in sports from grade school thru college. With busy careers and lots of time at sporting events, coming up with quick, healthy meals was a necessity. Carmen shares ideas and recipes to make this tough job a bit easier.

Kristen Owen is a Digital Content Producer for Lowe’s Home Improvement. She grew up on a small family farm in Buncombe County and graduated from N.C. State University with undergraduate degrees in Agriculture Extension and Communication, and a masters degree in Communication. She has a passion for agriculture and teaching. She loves the mountains, reading, meeting people and going new places. She lives in Salisbury with husband Matt, an agriculture teacher at a local high school.

Joanna Radford is the Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent for the NC Cooperative Extension in Surry County with expertise in entomology, gardening, and pesticide education. She began her career with NC Cooperative Extension in Stokes County in 1995 as a 4-H Agent, later switching to Field Crops and Pesticide Education in Surry County. In 2012, she assumed the role of Horticulture Agent for Surry County. She lives on a farm with her husband and two teenage daughters.

Sarah grew up at Crooked Oak in the Pine Ridge community of Surry County. Raised in the agriculture world, she went on to earn degrees in animal science and veterinary medicine from North Carolina State University. She and her husband, Adam, currently live in Statesville with Oliver the house rabbit, a few cats, Blossom the donkey, and a flock of Katahdin hair sheep.

6 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue


CONTRIBUTORS Contd.

WESTWOOD MEDICAL

Edward McDowell PA-C

• Primary Care • Sports Medicine • Adolescent & Adult Medicine Larry VanHoose

Gary York

Larry is the Executive Editor of Surry Living Magazine and Creative Director at Vivid Graphics in Galax, VA. He has 30+ years experience as a writer, graphic designer, and commercial photographer. Larry and wife, Trina, have four wonderful, grown children, one awesome grandchild, and they live just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Grayson County, VA.

Gary resides in Pilot Mountain with wife, Charlotte, at Vintage Rose Wedding Estate. A 1965 graduate of Guilford College, he received his MBA from Bucknell in ’68. His early career included service at York Oil Company and Neighbors Stores. Gary's passion for celebrating community servants led him to produce People Doing Good For Others on WPAQ, which in-turn fueled his interest in broadcasting and ultimately his purchase of 100.9 WIFM in 2004. He’s a member of the Surry County Educational Foundation and Board Member of the Elkin Rescue Squad.

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home, farm, & garden

Daddy’s Snow Contraption

I know that snow can spell aggravation and trouble for many, and I don’t wish bad for anybody. But I’ve loved snow for as far back as I can remember. To get out there and play and freeze and freeze and play was the height of fun. Back when I was growing up, the weatherman seemed to be just as surprised as we all were with a good snowstorm. We would go to bed and wake up to a big ol’ snow that was seemingly totally unexpected. Or maybe back then weather wasn’t the news; it was just a part of the program. Now a good snow has a reporter on every bridge and in every side ditch. I think I liked it better when there was a little mystery to the weather. When I was little, a good snowstorm could take you out of school for as much as a week at a time. Who worried about the days to be made up later? That is until the winter when I was in the second grade that we were out so much for ice and snow we had to make up some days on Saturdays for a little while. It was all fun and games until we missed out on Saturday morning cartoons. I will add that my daddy loved snow as much as I do. The winter he came up with the horse-drawn sleigh contraption was the standout of my childhood snowstorms. I was either nine or ten years old and it was a winter with right much snow. At that time we had a horse, and in my daddy’s estimation we had the makings for a lot of fun. He ran a car body repair shop, which meant there were always spare parts around. With a little studying and ingenuity, he outfitted

8 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue


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Large Selection of Hardware Over 60 Choices of Decorative Stone & Gravel Feed • Seed • Fertilizer • Mulch • Pine Needles • Propane Antiques & Collectibles, Farm Toys, Gift Certificates, Outdoor Fireplace Kits & Firepits 7802 NC 268, DOBSON, NC 27017 • www.facebook.com/FarmersMulchRock • 336.386.0883 that horse with a rigged-up harness and a sleigh. Well, it was the hood off a powder blue Volkswagen, but it served as our onehorse open sleigh. You want to talk about fun? Oh boy, we sure had it. Daddy rode the horse and pulled me all around the little neighborhood. We even talked momma into coming for a ride. Here we went with that hood sliding to and fro over the frozen crust of the snow. I could probably write a little song about it. The whole experience was song worthy. The young’uns that lived on the next street up started out by pointing and laughing. But it sure didn’t take them long to meander on down and ask for a ride.

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After we’d been pulled all over the place, daddy had another stroke of genius. The sleigh was the perfect sled! Beside the garage was a little pasture with a right nicely sloping hill. We could all pile on the hood and ride like lightning almost all the way down to the branch. The same branch where me and my grandmother Brown would take the red wagon for rocks and white clay in the springtime. But I told y’all about that before. Anyway, we would slide to the branch. Then Daddy would hitch us to the horse and pull us back up to the top of the hill and repeat until we were all popsicle people. We went at this for a better part of two whole days. The snow just didn’t last long enough. I’m sure the poor old horse was glad to see sun. Somewhere there are pictures that I hope I can find someday. Although I don’t really need the pictures at all. I will never forget that horse-drawn snow contraption and all the fun we had.

roysdiamond.com SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue • 9


10 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue


SLOW DOWN, CATCH UP

home, farm, & garden by Larry VanHoose

“If the devil can’t make you sin, he’ll make you busy.” – Corrie Ten Boom Two friends cross paths in the store. I’m sure you’ve probably heard it, even been part of a conversation similar to theirs: “How are you? How‘ve you been? It’s good to see you. It’s been so long.” “Good, good,” is the reply. “Just really busy.” “Me too, very busy. I saw on Facebook that you went out west for vacation. The pictures were great.” “Yes. It was a whirlwind trip, but awesome. By the way, I saw that your grandpa died. I’m sorry I wasn’t able to make it to the funeral. Just so busy, you know…” The famous psychologist Carl Jung had a saying: “Hurry is not of the devil; hurry is the devil.” I have a little sticky note on my desk, put there to remind me what’s important. It says, “See people, not tasks.” Good stuff, right? What’s surprising to me is that I need to be reminded to see people rather than things that need to get done. Of course, people – relationships – are what’s important. Aren’t they? I’ve read that the attention span of a goldfish is right at nine seconds. That’s it, nine seconds and he’s completely forgotten why he was watching the cat’s paw as it moved ever so slowly towards the top of the fishbowl. Even more interesting though, a study conducted by Microsoft indicated that people now have an even shorter attention span, only eight seconds! How can a pet fish out-focus us? I have a theory. I believe we have so much stuff to look at, think about, read, watch, study, and focus on – enabled by the myriad communication devices that constantly vie for our attention – that we cannot possibly feel a part of, in the know, important, connected, and informed unless we are doing our best to keep an eye on all of them. Or at least the ones we value, our feed so to speak. But at what cost is this fragmented focus to our lives, our values, our character, our relationships? Every day we see people ignoring friends and family, those that they are actually present with, to pay attention to friends that aren’t with them but are connected via the internet, cell phones, social media, and chat apps. Often these digital conversations are consuming, that’s right – consuming – our lives with people we barely know or haven’t even met in the real world! It gets worse. Activities that used to force us to interact can now be done without leaving the sanctity of our own homes. Shopping for gifts or household needs, grocery runs, dining in (delivery is not just for pizza anymore), church, even many jobs can be done remotely. In fact, if we try hard enough, we can literally go through our days without ever touching or even making eye contact with a single living soul. I could go on, but you know all this, don’t you? So, what do we do? Here’s what I think. We absolutely must start now being incredibly intentional at defeating the frenetic pace of the digital life, the modern “everything is possible” lifestyle. Instead, we need to diligently focus on what is important. The apostle Paul gave us this advice in his letter to the church in Galatia: “If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:25, ESV). I don’t think Paul was saying “we need to speed up,” but rather, he said “keep in step with.” It’s true that some may in fact need to speed up, but for most of us what’s really needed is a slowdown, to walk at HIS pace. Interestingly, in the same passage Paul presented us with a list he called the fruit of the Spirit, or in other words, the character of a life walking with God. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Gal. 5:22-23, ESV). Let’s be honest right here, right now. When we look at ourselves, is this the fruit we are seeing in our lives? Or are we seeing something or someone else we don’t want to be. Perhaps we need to take Paul’s advice and just slow down a little so we can keep in step? Slow down to catch up – to Him. Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28-29, NLT) SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue • 11


home, farm, & garden by Joanna Radford

Gardening for Your Health A new year brings the hope of fresh starts and new outlooks. I should know, I’ve made numerous new year’s resolutions over the years. Perhaps you made a few of them yourself. These promises often revolve around weight, which boils down to wellness. Did these resolutions come to fruition? How long did they last? I think I’ve stumbled onto something that could make these last throughout a lifetime.

muscles that you had forgotten about and will help you increase your strength and flexibility. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) categorizes gardening as a moderate-intensity level activity. Gardening 2.5 hours each week can reduce several health risk factors including high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, stroke, depression, heart disease, colon cancer, and obesity. In turn, this may reduce the risk of premature death. It is also said that folks who garden are more likely to exercise 40-50 minutes longer on average than those who choose to be active by walking or biking. I guess once you start pulling weeds, you just cannot stop until they are gone. Gardening in the great outdoors also provides a chance for your body to soak up vitamin D. This helps increase calcium levels which helps your bones. Just make sure you protect your skin against too much sunlight. And, don’t forget your sunglasses! If you need a pick-me-up, gardening may help your mood. AARP looked at a study from the Netherlands that suggested gardening fights stress better that any other hobby. Participants in the study completed a stressful task, then they were instructed to read inside or go outdoors to garden for 30 minutes. The gardening group reported better moods afterward, and blood tests from the participants confirmed lower levels of cortisol (stress hormone) in that group. Gardening with someone else helps relieve loneliness. Just having someone around with an interest compatible with yours helps you feel better. If you do not have someone at home, think about joining a community garden or creating one. Elkin has a community garden. If you are interested, call NC Cooperative Extension, Surry Center at 336-401-8025 for contact information.

Think about gardening. How does it make you feel? One time, I could have answered this with one word – frustrating. There are too many weeds, too many insects, and too many diseases that create challenges in the garden each year. That may be true, but there are many advantages to gardening, including that it’s a great way to get some exercise. Your body works when it is pulling weeds, planting seeds, and using gardening tools. And boy, there is a lot of bending, twisting, squatting, and walking when you begin, maintain, and harvest a garden. Your body will use

12 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue

Gardening does the body good—both physically and mentally. Begin now making plans for that garden. Many seed catalogs are out or available on-line. Select some things that you may not be familiar with and have fun. If you are looking to be around people who enjoy gardening, think about the Extension Master Gardener Volunteer (EMGV) Program. It is a great way to give back to your community while being involved in what you love – gardening and horticulture. There will be an EMGV Certification program beginning in February. Call NC Cooperative Extension today and see how you can get plugged in. Happy Gardening!


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home, farm, & garden by Sarah Southard, DVM

For the

Birds

With the new year, I’ve decided to take a slightly different approach to this column for the next few months. It seems that there is a national or international day, week, or month designation for all manner of ordinary and quite extraordinary things throughout the year. Talk Like a Pirate Day, anyone? National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day? (April 12, in case you’d like to celebrate.) How about International Pooper Scooper week? Each month I will explore one of these designations which relates to our pets, livestock, wildlife, or veterinary medicine. I had no idea until I consulted LifeLearn.com’s “The Huge List of 2019 Pet Holidays” that January is in fact “Adopt a Rescued Bird” month. Also, January 5 is “National Bird Day.” While they do not often come to mind when we consider “traditional” pets, birds are common in households across the United States. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association website, 2.8% of American households own birds, with the number of birds owned per household averaging just over two. For some people, birds prove to be a good alternative pet when allergies to other species limit pet options. For others, birds are simply an intriguing option to add to a menagerie of other companions. If you decide to add a bird to your household, there are several things to consider before and during the process of choosing a suitable bird. Like other pets, birds require regular veterinary exams and procedures to ensure their health and longevity. Check with your current veterinarian to see if they are experienced with birds and are willing to provide care for your new friend. If not, ask your veterinarian for recommendations or consult the Association of Avian Veterinarians website (aav.org) to find a qualified doctor in your area. Realize that it may require travelling some distance to access a properly trained avian veterinarian. Also, properly balanced food and necessary supplies may not be readily available locally, requiring special trips or ordering to acquire. Next, consider what size and type of bird you are interested in. Birds come in many different sizes and colors. Small songbirds may have wingspans of just a few inches while larger species may stand knee-high or taller and have wingspans of 3 to 4 feet. Some birds do well when kept solitarily while others need a mate or should be kept in small groups. Often birds have complex personalities and social needs. Some will bond with specific toys or people to the exclusion of anything else. This may lead to undesirable behaviors in some birds. A very important consideration in choosing a bird is its lifespan. Average ages

for birds depend on the species but range from about 5 years to 20 years. In general, the larger the bird, the longer its life expectancy. And even species with a relatively short average lifespan can have individuals that live much longer. Canaries have an average lifespan of about 8 years, but some have been reported to live up to 20 years. Larger species of birds such as parrots and macaws can live from 20 to more than 100 years. It is a very real possibility that your pet bird may need to be provided for in your estate planning!

Birds are quite interesting and diverse creatures. If you have ever considered adding an exotic pet to your family and home, do some research on birds this month. The link below is a great place to start. If you decide that a bird might be a good fit for your situation, check in with local rescue groups and humane societies and offer a displaced bird a new forever home this year. https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/selecting-pet-bird

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out & about by Gin Denton

Gypsy Laurel

Gypsy Laurel knows how to set the ambiance and rock out to what they call acoustic rock. The five members of the three-year-old, Mount Airy based band are a part of the heartbeat of our community in more ways than their music. Vocalist and violinist, Loida Slate, is an experienced musician who also shares her skills as the director of the Children’s Ministry and Musical Offerings at First Presbyterian Church in Mount Airy.

lifestyle photography

GIN DENTON

336-710-4506

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Loida’s husband, Les Slate, sings and plays percussion in the band. He has also been a member of several other regional bands including Mediocre Bad Guys and Magnolia Green. Les is the Senior Account Manager for both the OSG Company and the Diamond Company. Livia Livengood is also a talented vocalist and plays guitar in the band. Livia, originally from Romania, is a foreign language teacher at Mount Airy High School. Livia’s husband, Rob Livengood, also plays guitar in the band. Rob is the Marketing Director for Interlam, a local design and manufacturing company of specialized wall panels.

Gypsy Laurel plays a wide range of covers, sprinkled with their originals. Some of their favorite covers are “Ring of Fire,” by Johnny Cash, “Take it Easy,” by The Eagles. They do some nice Tom Petty tunes, as well. The band plays locally at wineries, breweries, festivals, and other special events. You can catch them at Thirsty Souls Community Brewing, in Mt. Airy, on Friday, January 10, and again on Friday, March 13, at 7:00 p.m., both dates. The band is also on YouTube and Facebook, so be sure to check them out – you'll thank me for it. Happy Trails!

“Celebrating 83 YEARS OF SERVICE in the Area!”

David Dixon plays mandolin in the band. By day, David is a local physician of family medicine. His work with Surry Medical Ministries, a much-needed walk-in clinic in Mount Airy, is important to him and the community. The frontwomen of this band, Loida and Livia, have songbird voices that soar in harmony. The band’s overall sound is diverse and enchanting. Their mix of acoustic rock and roll with mandolin and cajon, as well as other percussion, brings fresh layers of orchestration to rock songs. 16 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue

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1901 S. Main St • Mt. Airy • (336) 786-7082


ONE BREATH AT A TIME Pulmonary Rehab Program Restores Quality of Life Under the watchful leadership of pulmonary expert Connie Paladenech, RRT, RCP, Northern’s Pulmonary Rehab Program is meeting a significant healthcare need for the residents of Mount Airy and surrounding communities. Opened one year ago in partnership with Wake Forest Baptist Health, the program treats patients with chronic lung disorders that negatively affect their quality-of-life and ability to perform regular activities of daily living. Typically, patients include those diagnosed with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), pulmonary hypertension, emphysema, lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, severe asthma, cystic fibrosis, or any restrictive breathing disorder such as Interstitial Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). All patients are referred to the program by their primary-care or specialty physician – who are aware of the fact that pulmonary rehabilitation has been embraced by the American Thoracic Society & European Respiratory Society (ATS/ERS) as the most effective intervention available to improve pulmonary function and quality of life among affected patients. “Our focus is to provide a safe and effective educational/exercise program to help patients better manage and control their breathing while also conserving energy,” explains Paladenech. Since many pulmonary patients require the use of supplemental oxygen, each patient’s initial clinical assessment includes a recommendation for an oxygen-delivery device that will best meet their needs. “There are many oxygen-delivery devices, and they all work differently, so one of our priorities is to help ensure that patients are using the right device, on the right settings, to maximize their oxygen therapy requirements,” says Paladenech. Patients are also given one-on-one tutorials about the purpose and timing of all other medications that have been prescribed for them. The pulmonary rehab team – which includes specialists in respiratory therapy, exercise therapy, nursing, exercise physiology, nutrition, and psycho-social support -- also introduces each

patient to an increasingly progressive exercise regimen that has been individually tailored to enhance their strength and stamina. “We carefully monitor their exercise activities – which may include a combination of walking, climbing stairs, using treadmills, and doing resistance training to enhance upper- and lower-body strength,” said Paladenech. The Beatles, Brad Paisley or Beyonce? For Connie Paladenech, the Pulmonary Rehab program’s success is due to a combination of the patients’ determination and persistence to work hard to improve their health, and the staff’s professionalism and compassion in educating, encouraging and motivating patients to achieve their goals. “It’s definitely a team effort,” she says, “and the results are phenomenal.” And if anyone should know what works, Paladenech should. As a nationally recognized leader in the field of pulmonary and cardiac rehabilitation, Paladenech also knows how to build on success. To that end, she has added a ‘music therapy’ component to Northern Hospital’s Pulmonary Rehab program so patients can achieve even better results in boosting their breathing capabilities. “By carefully selecting the tunes to be sung, we hope to further empower patients to better manage their breathing,” explains Paladenech. Not surprisingly, there’s solid science behind the expected fun and collegiality: “We look at a number of things in selecting the songs to be sung,” explains Paladenech, “such as the tempo, the length of time each note has to be held, use of the diaphragm, and the amount of coordination needed to carry the tune.” The music therapy component was added this past August. While Paladenech and her staff don’t think another Pavarotti will be discovered among their singers, they’ll be more than satisfied if each patient simply achieves another personal high note on their road to recovery! For more information visit www.choosenorthern.org

This is a paid advertorial for Northern Regional Hospital, Mount Airy, NC.


out & about

Surry’s LongHaul Trucking by Gary York

As far back as the mid-1960s, Surry County has been a mecca for highly successful long-haul trucking companies. Starting contributors to this legacy were the late Bobby Harold and family, who would buy live plants in South Carolina and Georgia and peddle them along South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia rural highways as far north as Winchester, Virginia. In 1966 Bobby Harold and Norman Webb’s H&W Trucking developed a relationship with W.R. Vernon Produce in Winston-Salem, and with tractors and reefer trailers (48’ box trailer with a refrigeration unit), began hauling fresh produce from California to Winston-Salem. In those days the west coast turnaround took 6 ½ days. Similar rail deliveries required 1014 days. Today’s teams complete the trip in 3 ½ days. Most reefer haulers were also carrying furniture made in Galax, Mount Airy, and Hickory to countless locations going west. H&W was the first to develop the “less-than-truckload” (LTL) concept of picking up partial loads of furniture from manufacturers and consolidating into truckloads at a Mount Airy warehouse. This LTL effort was a major breakthrough, as was replacing 48-foot trailers with 53-foot units for additional cubic feet volume, as furniture is light in weight. With the demise of furniture manufacturing on the east coast and deregulation of the freight industry, our reefer haulers developed other types of dry freight clients. Our Surry County-based companies take great pride in incredible service and on-time deliveries. Staying on top of business is a must. Clean and mechanically sound equipment attracts new customers. Trucks are rolling billboards advertising company values. One owner said, “Everything we do matters and is important. I came up in a trucking family. My first memory is changing tires and washing trucks. Clean shop floors and cab floors start the cycle for excellence. Our bottom line will take care of itself when we take care of business.” Dispatchers at company headquarters are hands-on, 24-7, as they help driving teams navigate unforeseen challenges and finding backhaul loads. Backhaul is the second stream of revenue. Having great backhaul is paramount to profitability. Deadhead is the number of non-revenue miles between loads. Fewer deadhead miles usually predicts significant profits. Owners monitor trailer refrigeration performance and temperature levels using software and mobile apps. Our local icons are 18 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue

technologically savvy and ever searching for innovations that contribute to profitability and on-time deliveries. The closest tractor dealerships are in Greensboro and the leading makers are Freightliner, International, Paccar (Peterbilt & Kenworth), and Volvo Mack. Trucks are usually equipped with 500 hp diesel engines, automatic transmissions, and cruise control, along with TV and internet. Utility Trailer Sales of Mount Airy is a preferred trailer supplier. Units cost $230,000, travel 275,00 miles, and make 45 round trips to pick up California produce annually.

Astute leaders are ever-mindful that the secret to success is having great drivers – the master behind the wheel. These driving superstars generate more revenue, have better fuel mileage, lower maintenance cost, are on-time, and require less management. Unfortunately, there is a nationwide shortage of 65,000 CDL-certified drivers. Many owners have parked units wanting for drivers. Companies domiciled in Surry County have exceptional driver opportunities. Home every four days, top pay, and excellent benefits. We applaud Surry Community College’s highly-respected Truck Driver Training School at the Yadkin Center in Yadkinville. For more information about the program visit https://surry.edu/areas-of-study/job-training/ transportation-system-technologies/truck-driving or contact Dr. Wayne Matthews at (336) 386-3584 or matthewsw@surry. edu. Over 500 tractor-trailer units provide livelihood for more than 1,500 employees and their families and significantly contribute to the economic wellness of our communities. As an industry, it constitutes one of our largest employers and generates a Surry County personal and real property tax base in excess of 120 million dollars. As one prominent owner said, “There are more long-haul tractors and trailers per capita registered in Surry County than any county in the nation because of our great leader-owners, employees and customers.” We are grateful to the following leaders who contributed to this article: Bill Anderson, David Smith, William Smith, Robby Atkins, Rusty York, Roger Webb, Ralph Hardy, Dude Smith, and Gary Harold.


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simply delicious

The Sweet

with Rynn Hennings

W

& Life SAVORY

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hy not ring in the new year with a change to your diet? No, not a diet in which you try to lose a few pounds, but a diet including simple, fresh foods. After weeks of rich holiday eating, a diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats is appealing. And the side benefit? You might lose a few pounds! With so much online information about what we should and should not eat, nutrition can be confusing. But one fact always stays the same: fresh fruits and vegetables have powerful nutrients that supply energy and help fight sickness and disease.

This ever-popular soup recipe from my mother-in-law is full of fresh vegetables and can be made quickly with store-bought boxed chicken stock and a rotisserie chicken. I’ve paired it with a nutrient-dense winter salad that is full of fresh fruits and vegetables to help you ring in your wellness diet. CHEESY CHICKEN VEGETABLE SOUP Servings: 12 cups Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Ingredients for Soup • 1 large onion, chopped • 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced thin • 3 large celery stalks, chopped • 2 medium potatoes, cubed • 2 cups frozen corn • 6 cups chicken stock, divided in half • 2 cups rotisserie chicken, cut into small chunks • ¼ cup cornstarch • 3 cups whole milk, divide out ¼ cup • ¼ cup butter 20 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue

• • •

½ teaspoon pepper ½ teaspoon salt 8 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions for Soup 1. In a large Dutch oven, add the onion, carrots, celery, potatoes, corn, and 3 cups of chicken stock. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and on medium heat bring the vegetables to a boil and then simmer for 20 minutes or until tender. 2. In a small bowl, add the cornstarch and ¼ cup of milk. Stir until smooth. Add a little more milk if necessary. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the remaining milk and stir. Then slowly pour the milk mixture into the vegetables, whisking as you pour. Add the last 3 cups of chicken stock into the vegetables and stir. Add the butter, pepper, salt, and chicken and cook 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and add the cheddar cheese and stir until melted. 3. ORANGE WINTER SALAD Servings: 2 Prep Time: 15 minutes Ingredients for salad • 4 cups baby spinach • 4 cups leaf lettuce, torn into pieces • 2 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded • Pomegranate arils • Mandarin orange, peeled and sliced horizontally • Toasted hazelnuts, chopped • Cheddar cheese, shredded • Kumquats (optional)

Orange Vinaigrette Ingredients • ¼ cup olive oil • ¼ cup fresh squeezed mandarin orange juice • ¼ cup white wine vinegar • 2 tablespoons orange blossom honey (substitute any honey) • ½ teaspoon salt • Pepper to taste


simply delicious Directions for salad 1. Wash the spinach and lettuce and divide between two bowls. Place several orange slices on the lettuce and then sprinkle a handful of pomegranate arils on top of the orange slices. Divide the chicken between the salads and place it on the side of each bowl. Place a handful of hazelnuts, a few kumquats, and a couple of tablespoons of shredded cheese on the side of each salad.

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Directions for Vinaigrette 1. Place all ingredients into a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well to mix the ingredients. Serve immediately. Refrigerate any leftovers.

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Savory Tips For the best taste, use chicken stock instead of chicken broth for this soup recipe. If the soup is too thick the second day, add chicken stock and milk in a 2:1 ratio. For example, if you add 1 cup of stock, add 1/2 cup of milk. Kumquats are eaten with the skin on. They have a citrus taste similar to an orange. To toast hazelnuts, place them in a nonstick skillet and heat on medium. Stir for about 3 minutes or until nuts are fragrant and lightly browned.

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simply delicious

Moving More in the New Year 2020 is here and it is time to get moving! Would you like to feel and sleep better, increase energy levels, have a more positive attitude, reduce the risk for certain chronic diseases, and maybe even lose some weight? These claims are better than you would hear from a latenight TV infomercial. The exciting part: you can experience these benefits without taking any medication, buying any special food, or spending lots of money. The answer: daily physical activity. During the winter, it is more challenging for many of us to get outside to take a walk. Think about how you may be able to fit more movement into your day. It may be something as simple as parking your car in a space farther from where you are going or taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Use commercials during your favorite TV shows as movement breaks. Get out of your chair and move around. Even just standing up and sitting back down several times can help strengthen leg muscles. Use hand weights, or bottles of water will work, to strengthen your arms. One fun idea is to take a blown-up balloon, hit it into the air and keep hitting it up to see if you can keep the balloon from touching the floor during the whole commercial. (It is amazing how long some of the commercials last.) This is even more fun to do with a partner, hitting it back and forth to each other. Not only are you getting some exercise, the movement will warm you up on a cold day. If you decide to go outside to get some fresh air and exercise, it is important that you take the weather into consideration and dress appropriately for the conditions. Use these tips from Eat Smart, Move More, NC to make your winter walk safe and enjoyable. • Dress in layers so that you can remove or put back on as needed. • Wear a hat to minimize the body heat lost from the head. • Wear gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm. • Wear comfortable shoes with good traction. • Drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise. • Wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from sun damage.

CINNAMON HONEY BAKED PEARS

Ingredients • • • • •

Ripe pears (A serving is ½ of a pear so cook as many pears as you need. Make extra and reheat for future use.) For each pear use: 1/8 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp honey 1 Tablespoon of crushed walnuts

Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. 2. Wash pears, cut in half, and place in a baking dish. Can cut a thin slice off the rounded bottom to make a flat edge so they sit up. 3. Use a melon baller or a spoon to scoop out the seeds. 4. Sprinkle each half with cinnamon, walnuts, and drizzle with 1/2 teaspoon of honey. 5. Bake for 30 minutes. Enjoy! Prep time: 5 minutes Bake time: 30 minutes Nutritional Facts: Serving: 1/2 pear, Calories: 110, Carbohydrates: 17g, Protein: 1.5g, Fat: 2.5g, Fiber: 3g

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22 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue


all the rest Find out how a harmless prank entangles two college kids with a serial killer in the next installment of A DEEPER CUT, a novel of suspense and forgiveness by Mt. Airy author Sheri Wren Haymore.

“That’s been a dead end twice.” Jack’s eyes narrowed as he spoke. “Oh? Hunter had a knife in his kitchen. Straight, thin blade just like the coroner said was used in the first three murders. I didn’t see you take it for evidence either time you searched his apartment.” “Well, you confiscate it if you’re so smart,” Jack snapped. “I’m headed in other directions today, like the crime scene, where one Jack stepped off his yacht early the next morning to find Grayson Tucker sitting on would assume you’d want to be, instead of here harassing me.” the nearest boardwalk bench, legs crossed, “I’m guessing something happened to change your mind about arms folded across his chest. He looked Hunter.” relaxed, Panama hat pulled low against the rising sun. “The boy barely left his place at all after we were there, if you “You don’t waste time, do you, Tucker? Might as well give you last must know.” night’s details, I guess.” “And nobody visited him? Maybe dropped something off with him?” “Mmm.” “You’re losing your mind, Tucker. I can conduct this investigation “There’s not much to tell. We got there a couple of minutes late alone while you try to find what brains you ever had again.” for a bust. Just a couple of minutes, and we would have had him.” “Good.” Grayson pulled dark sunglasses from his pocket, put “Mmm.” them on, and kept his seat. Jack studied him. “What is this, pout time because you weren’t Jack stalked away without a backward glance. called? It was pretty much a rerun of the other homicides. You’ve * * * read the report, I’m sure.” Hunter slept later than usual. When he let himself in Granny Jen’s “No cat.” kitchen, hair tousled, shirt off, drawstring pants low on his hips, “No, but I have a theory.” he was startled to see Aunt Winnie in her robe, sipping coffee. “Let’s hear it.” Grayson scratched his ear and refolded his arms. “Oh, hi. I thought you spent the night at the hospital,” he said, “The door was open, and the screen not latched. Maybe there was reflexively pulling up the pants. a cat, and it ran away.” “She was sleeping well, so I came on in sometime after midnight.” She eyed him sideways, “Your light was still on.” “Which door?” “Yeah. Couldn’t sleep. I worked late on some drawings.” “The front,” said Jack. “Good for you.” She sipped her coffee. “You know, if your music “So you think the killer ran out the front?” asked Grayson, hadn’t been quite so loud, you might have heard me come in.” shifting his position on the bench. He looked up at Jack, squinting into the morning sun, the creases deep around his eyes. “Oh, sorry. I’ll keep it down tonight.” He sliced a banana over his cereal, avoiding her eyes. “Could be. I’m going back now to look it over in the daylight.” “Mother may come home this afternoon.” “Where were you?” “Great.” “What are you implying?” Jack asked, his voice cold. “How long did you watch the house before going in? How many “She’ll be in a wheelchair for a few days. I’m going to need some help around here.” minutes behind him do you think you were?” “Sure.” Hunter chanced a glance at Winnie. Even though she was “It’s all in the report. Read it, Barney Fife,” Jack growled. “I did read it, and I just can’t figure out how you managed to miss still in her robe, her dark hair, peppered with gray, was smoothly somebody running out the front. Had to be a matter of seconds.” brushed into a short, neat bob. “Who’s been doing your laundry?” she asked. “Timing is everything. In this case, it was against us.” He eyed her suspiciously. “Eloise? You know, Granny Jen’s maid?” “Mmm.” “Well, I let Eloise go this morning. She had become sloppy in her “Look, I’m as sick as you are over this. I was this close to having work.” him in my hands.” “Okay,” he said carefully. “Seconds,” said Grayson, still squinting up at him. “So you see what I’m saying.” “Hell, I can’t talk to you. I’m going to work.” Jack dismissed He smiled, slow and easy. “I’ll tell you what. You do the laundry, Grayson with a wave and started to walk away. and I’ll do the cooking.” “So you’re going to search Hunter Kittrell’s place again?” asked “Such a charmer. Just like your daddy.” Grayson. He stared at her, cereal forgotten. “Huh?” “Well, there’s been another murder. According to you, Hunter or “Why are you looking at me like that?” she asked. his father is involved. Now would be a prime time to search, if “Tell me about my father.” you’re going to.” “Why? You’ve never asked about him before.” SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue • 23


all the rest “I have a sudden burning need to know,” said Hunter. “Have you seen him? Heard from him?” She studied him over her coffee. “Rob and I weren’t close. There was the age difference, you know.” Hunter studied her in return. He’d never thought about it, but she must be, what, fifty-five or older? Her grandchildren would be nearly teenagers by now. “Surely, in all these years, he’s called you,” Hunter persisted. She hesitated before answering, “No. But he did call Donnie a few times.” “Uncle Donald? He never told me that.” “He would tell you now, I think. Now that you’re old enough.” “Old enough for what?” She shrugged and set her coffee cup down. “Rob did ask about you. You and Mother.” “So, he knew I was alive. Why didn’t he ever send a birthday card? Or you know, like, graduation money?” His voice was carefully indifferent. “I can’t answer that. There was certainly no excuse for what he did.” She was silent. “So, how’s Uncle Paul?” “Don’t change the subject. I’m thinking how to say this.” “Just spit it out. It’s easier.” She laughed shortly. “Well, the last time he called was just before Donnie got sick. Seems he was in trouble with the law and wanted Donnie to hide him.” “Did he?” “No. Donnie begged Rob to turn himself in.” “Why? Why wouldn’t he help him?” “This is difficult, I know. What your father needed was a chance to start over, make things right. He didn’t need to perpetuate the life he was living.” Hunter wasn’t even aware he had closed his eyes until he felt Winnie’s hand on his arm. “Many people love you, Hunter. I know that doesn’t make up for your father, but it matters. You’re turning out okay.” “Yeah. I guess.” He stood abruptly. “Hey, I’ve got to go. Granny Jen must wonder where everybody is this morning.” “Wait, Hunter. Have you heard from your mother lately?” He sighed. “She’s left me several messages on my cell phone. She’s mainly pissed that I managed to find a dead body.” He started out. “She’s just very worried about you, I’m sure,” said Winnie. “You should call her back.” “No thank you. She’s pissed off, just like usual, and I don’t want to hear it. See ya.” “Wait. Doesn’t she usually come down around your birthday in August? This is a big one coming up, isn’t it? Twenty-one?” “Maybe if I’m lucky, she’ll forget.” * * * “That’s him. Sitting on that bench.” The morning quiet of the 24 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue

waterfront was interrupted by a crisp voice. Grayson flinched but kept his seat on the bench, arms still folded. He stared at the water, his eyes hidden by the dark glasses. “Mr. Tucker! Chief Tucker! When are you going to make an arrest?” The man who belonged to the voice rushed to stand in front of Grayson, breathless as if he had chased Grayson to the bench. His extended arm held a microphone in Grayson’s face, and he adjusted the pack on his back, impatiently waiting for a response. A cameraman joined him, hovering to Grayson’s left. Grayson sighed and slowly looked up at the reporter. He had been expecting this. In the two days since Doug Sanders’ murder, he had managed to avoid the infestation of national news media while his harassed staff handled the reporters as best they could. With one more murder to feed to the public, Grayson had known the media sharks would be circling today. “Five murders in your town. People are in a panic. They’re not safe inside their own homes. What are you going to do about it, Chief Tucker?” The voice was insistent; the microphone was stuck more emphatically under Grayson’s nose. When Grayson did not quickly answer, the man demanded, “Give us your statement.” “You’re standing way too close, kid,” Grayson drawled. He held the reporter’s eyes until the man eased the microphone away a half-inch. Grayson motioned with his hand, and a second camera crew, which had been fast approaching from his right, rushed up. A uniformed police officer joined Grayson from behind. The first reporter grudgingly backed away another inch. Grayson cocked his head to one side, still looking at the first reporter. “Where are you from, kid?” he asked. “Philadelphia.” The clipped voice was impatient. “Chief Tucker, surely you . . .” “Do you see this officer?” Grayson’s Southern voice was conversational. “Mr. Tucker . . .” “This man has barely seen his children in five weeks.” Grayson tormented the antsy reporter with deliberately slow words. “Why do you think the killer picked Beaufort?” the reporter persisted. “I have slept very little in five weeks.” Grayson raised his eyebrows at the reporter, daring him to interrupt again. “This is our home, and the people you have labeled panicked are our friends and families.” “Exactly.” The second reporter moved closer. “These people are expecting . . .” “These people are expecting something I can’t give them,” said Grayson quickly. “Beaufort is a small town, and I have a small department.” He looked from one camera to the other. “Here is my statement. Get it down right, because I will not repeat it.” The reporters waited, cameras rolling. “This killer is a professional, and he knew how to kill before he ever came to Beaufort.” “So you’re sure the killer’s not a local?” the first reporter interrupted. Grayson raised his eyebrows at the man once again. The man backed off, but the second reporter moved in.


all the rest

Sheri Wren Haymore lives near Mt. Airy with her husband, Clyde, and has been scribbling her entire life. A DEEPER CUT is her second novel. To read the next installment in the book, pick up the latest issue of Surry Living Magazine. You can find A DEEPER CUT at Pages in Mt. Airy, Chapters in Galax or at your favorite online bookseller.

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“How can anyone kill five times and not get caught in a town this size? Where is he hiding, Chief Tucker?” Once again, two microphones were stuck in Grayson’s face. Grayson stared both reporters down. A third crew rushed up, the camera guy still chewing his breakfast. “What do you think about the reports . . .” the third reporter began. “I have one thing to say and one thing only,” Grayson drawled in his deep voice. “The State Bureau of Investigation is handling this case along with the DEA and FBI. These agencies have highly specialized crime labs and investigators who are trained to track down professional killers. They will find this killer very soon. My department will do all it can to protect the town’s citizens. It would be very helpful if you reporters would stand back and let us do our jobs. That is all I have to say.” “Are you doing your job now, Chief Tucker?” “Are you saying the investigators know who they’re looking for?” “What, in your opinion, is the profile of the killer?” “Are you investigating the shooting of the tourist as a separate case?” “Have you taken anyone in for questioning?” “What do you know about the reports that a former resident with drug connections has been seen in the area?” Grayson held up a hand. “You have thirty seconds to back away from me fifty feet or this officer will arrest you all for impeding an investigation.” The reporters hesitated. “Thirty seconds,” Grayson repeated. All three crews stepped back one step. The officer behind Grayson moved his hand closer to his gun. “And let your cohorts know that we will arrest anyone who hinders us from doing our jobs.” When the reporters hesitated again, he added in a deep Southern drawl, “And ya’ll don’t even want to know where my good friend the judge will put you if you don’t comply.” Hastily, the reporters retreated. When they were a safe distance away, Grayson asked the officer in a low voice, “Who in this town has been talking about Rob Kittrell?” The officer shook his head and shrugged. “Find out,” said Grayson. He refolded his arms and stayed on his bench.

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MASSAGE & BODYWORK SPACES FOR RENT Mount Airy, NC

Attention Newly-licensed Massage Therapists: My name is Nicole Wimbish, owner & sole proprietor of Zen Massage & Bodywork. My business is located in Mount Airy, NC. I have a unique opportunity for newly-licensed therapists to build their own business/clientele, at an affordable rental-space rate. This space will be a co-sharing and co-op type of massage clinic. For those not looking for a long-term commitment, I am offering rental space for $30 /day or $60 /week. If you would rather commit for a longer, more affordable term, a monthly lease rate of $200 is possible. Currently we have only one room where space/time would be shared by me and the other therapists, but more rooms will be available very soon. This room will be furnished with a table, chair, music, etc.. You would need to provide your own sheets, lotions, and oils. If you prefer to use your own table, there is space and you are welcome to do so. If interested, please contact me by phone or email. I look forward to working with you on your new endeavor.

Nicole Wimbish, LMBT, Zen Massage & Bodywork

336-783-7652 • zenmassage.bodywork@yahoo.com

SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue • 25


area calendars & info

MOUNT AIRY EVENTS

For more information on Mount Airy, visit www.yadkinvalleync.com/mount-airy JAN 4: BREAKING UP CHRISTMAS DANCE FEATURING THE NEW SMOKEY VALLEY BOYS 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm, Historic Earle Theatre, 142 N Main St, Mt Airy, NC. The New Smokey Valley Boys are a group of young men who have come together to honor one of old time music’s greatest string bands. The original group based out of Surry County, NC, was led by the late Benton Flippen and Paul Sutphin from the 1970s all the way through to Flippen’s death in 2011. To purchase tickets, visit www.surryarts.org JAN 10: WINTER SNOWMAN CRAFT 3:30 pm, Andy Griffith Museum Theatre, 218 Rockford St, Mt Airy. Join us in making a craft, playing a game, and enjoying a sweet treat! Suitable for kids of all ages. All materials provided. Email madi@surryarts.org with questions.

MOUNT AIRY

JAN 16: BREWS & BRUSHES: TAKE A HIKE! 6:30 pm, White Elephant Beer Company, 225 Market St, Mt Airy, NC. Create your own masterpiece! Complete with step-by-step instructions with light tracings. Come early and enjoy beverages available for purchase. All Materials Provided! Preregistration required. Visit www.surryarts.org or call (336)786-7998 JAN 23: BREWS & BRUSHES: BEE’S KNEES 6:30 pm, Thirsty Souls Community Brewing. Create your own masterpiece! Complete with step-by-step instructions with light tracings. Come early and enjoy beverages available for purchase. All Materials Provided! FEB 7: VALENTINE CRAFT 3:30 pm, Andy Griffith Museum Theatre, 218 Rockford St, Mt Airy. Join us in making a craft, playing a game, and enjoying a sweet treat! Suitable for kids of all ages. All materials provided. Email madi@surryarts.org with questions. FEB 14 & 16: ALMOST, MAINE 8:00 pm, Andy Griffith Playhouse, 218 Rockford St, Mt Airy. The Surry Arts Players community theatre will be performing this real romantic comedy just in time for Valentine's Day! To purchase tickets, visit www.surryarts.org FEB 15: THE EARLS OF LEICESTER PRESENTED BY JERRY DOUGLAS 7:30 pm, Historic Earle Theatre, 142 N Main St, Mt Airy, NC. The Earls of Leicester have discovered a kind of magic that, when harnessed, allows moments once relegated to memories to roar back to life. For tickets, visit www.surryarts.org FEB 20: BREWS & BRUSHES: EIFFEL FOR YOU 6:30 pm, The Loaded Goat, 247 City Hall St, Mt Airy, NC. Create your own masterpiece! Complete with step-by-step instructions and light tracings. Come early and enjoy food and beverages available for purchase. All Materials Provided! Pre-registration required. Visit www.surryarts.org or call (336)786-7998 FEB 27: BREWS & BRUSHES: PETAL TO THE METAL 6:30 pm, White Elephant Beer Company, 225 Market St, Mt Airy, NC. Create your own masterpiece! Come early and enjoy beverages available for purchase. All Materials Provided! Preregistration required. Visit www.surryarts. org or call (336)786-7998

26 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue

PAWN SHOP & JEWELERS

Gifts for that Special Someone

On that Special Day Mon–Fri: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Mount Airy’s Diamond Center 336-786-6417 • 336-789-7109 1911 Caudle Drive, Mount Airy, NC 27030


area calendars & info

ELKIN

ELKIN EVENTS For more area info, visit www.elkinnc.org

JAN 10: TRAVIS MEADOWS AT THE REEVES 8:00 pm, Reeves Theater & Café, 129 W Main St, Elkin, NC. Tickets $20-$25. For more info and tickets, visit www.reevestheater.com JAN 11: PRESLEY BARKER AND WAYNE HENDERSON 8:00 pm, Reeves Theater & Café, 129 W Main St, Elkin, NC. For more info and tickets, visit www.reevestheater.com

JAN 17: WARD DAVIS AT THE REEVES 7:00 pm, Reeves Theater & Café, 129 W Main St, Elkin, NC. Davis has had songs recorded by Trace Adkins, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Wade Hayes, Sammy Kershaw, Bucky Covington, Jimmie Van Zant, Buddy Jewel, Carolina Rain, The Roys, and more. Most recently, Ward Davis co-wrote “I’m Not The Devil” with Cody Jinks, with whom he subsequently toured with nationwide. Tickets $20-$25, Charles Wesley Godwin opens. For more info and tickets, visit www.reevestheater.com JAN 24: B3 SOCIAL CLUB 8:00 pm, Reeves Theater & Café, 129 W Main St, Elkin, NC. Join Reeves House Band leader Tommy Jackson on the B3 organ, select members of the House Band, and incredible local musicians for a monthly party following in the footsteps of social music icons like Gov't Mule, Grateful Dead, Widespread Panic, Phish, & more. Live jam session, drink specials, dancing & fun! No advanced tickets, just $10 at the door. JAN 25: THE TRAVELIN’ MCCOURYS 8:00 pm, Reeves Theater & Café, 129 W Main St, Elkin, NC. 2019 Best Bluegrass Album GRAMMY Winners. Reeves Theater debut! Tickets $30-$35. For more info and tickets, visit www.reevestheater.com

FEB 1: THE MARTHA BASSETT SHOW: SEASON 3 PREMIERE 7:30 pm, Reeves Theater & Café, 129 W Main St, Elkin, NC. For information and tickets, visit www.marthabassettshow.com FEB 8: 4TH ANNUAL BIG ELKIN BRRFEST 11:00 am – 4:00 pm, Coley Hall at The Liberty, 222 E Main St, Elkin, NC. Enjoy live music, the finest NC craft beers & ciders and good food. Ticket are $10 each which will give you an entry and a pint glass and a chance to win a local gift basket. Tickets available for purchase at www.eventbrite.com

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year COOK INSURANCE GROUP LLC and Erie Insurance wish you a safe and joyful New Year. Timothy Cook COOK INSURANCE GROUP LLC 119 VALLEY DR JONESVILLE, NC 28642-2620 Fax: 336-526-2664

336-526-2665

Auto • Home • Business • Life www.erieinsurance.com S1092c Not all companies are licensed or operate in all states. Not all products are offered in all states. Go to erieinsurance.com for company licensure and territory information.

SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue • 27


area calendars & info

DOBSON EVENTS

For more information on Dobson, NC, visit www.yadkinvalleync.com/dobson JANUARY: SKATE INTO THE NEW YEAR IN DOBSON Dobson Square Park in downtown Dobson hosts holiday skating every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through mid-January.

a great start to any day!

For just $5 per 20-minute session, lace up the skates and glide across a synthetic rink in the heart of Yadkin Valley wine country. Synthetic ice never melts, and the rink is covered to allow skating in rainy or snowy weather. After skating, you might want to head on over to one of Dobson’s premier wineries: Herrera Vineyards, Hutton Vineyards, Shelton Vineyards or Stony Knoll Vineyards.

NEARBY NEARBY EVENTS

1624 HWY 67 Jonesville, NC 336-835-5544

HOURS: 7 Days a Week 6:00 am — 3:00 pm

www.breakfastimenc.com

THE REX THEATER 113 E Grayson St, Galax, VA, www.rextheatergalax.com

JAN 10: BLUE RIDGE BACKROADS LIVE, BREAKING UP CHRISTMAS Show 7:00 pm, $5.00 JAN 17: BLUE RIDGE BACKROADS LIVE, GAP CIVIL OLD TIME BAND Show 7:00 pm, $5.00 JAN 24: BLUE RIDGE BACKROADS LIVE, CRANDALL CREEK BAND Show 7:00 pm, $5.00 JAN 31: BLUE RIDGE BACKROADS LIVE, THE SONS OF HACHALIAH BAILEY Show 7:00 pm, $5.00

Natural Products & Education Herbs • SUPPLEMENTS • Essential Oils Homeopathy • NATURAL BODYCARE GROCERIES • Petcare • AND MORE

106 West Main Street PILOT MOUNTAIN, NC

(336) 368-5955 28 • SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue

STORE HOURS

Tuesday – Friday, 10:00 – 5 :00 Saturday, 10:00 – 4:00

Mail Order Available

N.C. Department of Insurance • Mike Causey, Commissioner 855-408-1212 (toll free) • www.ncdoi.com

JANUARY IS GLAUCOMA AWARENESS MONTH Glaucoma is a leading cause of vision loss and blindness in the United States. It often has no symptoms and if it’s not detected and treated, people can lose their sight. Prevent vision loss by finding and treating problems early. Medicare covers a glaucoma test once every 12 months for people at high risk for the disease. You’re at high risk if you have diabetes, are African Americans age 50 and older, everyone over age 60, and anyone with a family history of glaucoma. The Medicare Part B deductible and coinsurance apply. Ask a SHIIP counselor for more information. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: NC COOPERATIVE EXT, SURRY CO @ 336-401-8025


area calendars & info

PILOT MOUNTAIN

PILOT MOUNTAIN EVENTS

Pilot Mountain Tourism, 124 West Main Street, Pilot Mountain. For more area info, visit www.pilotmountainnc.org Hilda's Place Calendar of Events www.livingyourart.com JAN 4: OPEN MIC MUSIC 7:00 pm JAN 8: KARAOKE 7:00 pm

“A near-perfect fusion of music, theater, art, casual dining, and fun!�

JAN 10: "LAZY" LARRY WISHON 7:00 pm JAN 11: ANNA MERTSON 7:00 pm

$5 Cover Charge

JAN 16: TRIVIA NIGHT 7:00 pm JAN 17: OPEN MIC POETRY 7:00 pm JAN 18: SPECIAL GUEST TBA JAN 22: KARAOKE 7:00 pm JAN 24: ARTS & CRAFTS NIGHT 6:30 pm JAN 30: TRIVIA NIGHT 7:00 pm JAN 31: OPEN MIC COMEDY 7:00 pm

• We're More Than A Feed Store •

(336)444-4359 • LIVINGYOURART.COM 215 E MAIN ST, PILOT MOUNTAIN, NC

This winter we are featuring our 16% protein cattle feed and 24% protein tubs. Our cattle feed is 16% protein with 3% fat and our tubs are Ultralyx 24% Hi-Mag Protein Tubs.

Winter – Spring – Summer – Fall See Us For Your Year-Round Mineral Needs 675 Meadow Street • Galax, Virginia • 276-236-3721 33 Floyd Pike, Corner of 58 & 221 • Hillsville, VA • 276-266-3399 SURRY LIVING Jan. 2020 Issue • 29


1. Enjoy the best variety of music on 100.9 WIFM 2. That’s all

Streaming live at www.wifmradio.com


Schedule your tour today

(336) 786-9100

Mt. Airy’s Premier Retirement Community

1000 Ridgecrest Lane • Mt. Airy, NC 27030 • (336) 786-9100 • Ridge-Crest.com Independent Living • Assisted Living


Strokes can happen to anyone, anywhere, and anytime. Know the signs. Know the risks.

Visit choosenorthern.org/stroke for more information on signs symptoms and risks.

Choose Well. Choose Northern. Northern Regional Hospital is certified as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center. Choose Well. Choose Northern.


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Surry Living Magazine - January 2020 by Surry Living - Issuu