Surry Living Magazine - June 2021

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JUNE 2021

A lifestyle magazine highlighting Surry County and the surrounding area

What's New? Calendar guides to the area’s special events for Elkin, BONUS: Mount Airy, Pilot Mountain, Dobson, and our nearby communities

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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

CREATIVE

LARRY VANHOOSE executive editor

TRINA VANHOOSE

VIE STALLINGS HERLOCKER associate editor

SALES

OLIVIA MCMILLAN

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Anderson Audiology, Page 25 Blue Mountain Herbs, Page 27 Camper & Mobile Home Supply, Page 9 Charis Christian Books and Gifts, Page 10 Cook Insurance Group, Page 9 Countryside RV, Page 7 Creek Bottom Brewing Company, Page 18 The Derby, Page 7 Farmers Mulch & Rock, Page 22 Friendly Heating & Cooling, Inc., Page 5 George Smith Piano Tuning, Page 22 Grayson County Tourism, Page 15 Haymore Construction/Swimming Pools, Page 22 Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital, Pages 2, 14 Main Street Market, Page 10 The Martha Bassett Show, Page 21 Mount Airy Equipment, Page 3 Mount Airy Museum of Regional History, Page 29 Mount Airy Pediatric Dentistry, Page 31 Mullins Pawn Shop & Jewelers, Page 13 NC Cooperative Extension, Pages 27, 30 The Nest & Hive, Page 9 Northern Regional Hospital, Pages 17, 32 Ridgecrest Retirement, Page 13 RiverTrail Technology, Page 10 Roy's Diamonds, Page 10 Royster & Royster Attorneys at Law, Page 25 Surry Communications, Page 19 Zen Massage and Bodywork, Page 27

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION AND RATES, CONTACT US TODAY at (336) 648-3555 or by email at sales@surryliving.com • surryliving.com

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 June 2021 Issue

Did you know? All of our past issues are available to view or download at surryliving.com (336) 648-3555 • sales@surryliving.com

FEATURED SECTIONS

HOME, FARM, & GARDEN p.8

* OUT & ABOUT p.16 *

8 Special: New For Your Kids: 23 Gin Denton Presents:

Websites that Take the Work out of Learning!

The Box Dogs

SIMPLY DELICIOUS p.24 *

AREA EVENTS p.28

24 The Sweet & Savory Life w/ 28 Area Event Schedules:

Rynn Hennings: Smash Burger Sliders

11 This Little Light of Mine:

What's New?

We have compiled a list of events for this month that we believe are accurate as of press time. We recommend visiting visitmayberry.com for the most current event schedule information.

26 Carmen Long:

You "Can" Do It! 12 Joanna Radford: Beating

the Odds through a Pandemic 15 Dr. Sarah Southard:

Plant-ing for Your Pet's Safety and Wellbeing

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

16 Sheri Wren Haymore:

Serving the Community in New Ways

20 Martha Bassett:

Good Music, Good People The Waiting

No need to improvise. We can get your Air Conditioning up and running in no time!

336-789-6453 * friendlyheatingcooling.com SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 5

CONTRIBUTORS

Martha Bassett

Gloria Brown

Gin Denton

Sheri Wren Haymore

Martha is a singer/songwriter/guitarist living and working in the Piedmont. She hosts The Martha Bassett Show, a twicemonthly musical variety show at Elkin’s Reeves Theater. Past shows are featured Saturday evenings on NPR station, 88.5 WFDD. On Wednesday nights she leads music at Roots Revival, an Americana worship service at Winston’s Centenary UMC that explores the intersection of faith and secular music. She's also a longtime scholar of the music of the Shakers.

Martha has released 11 records and plays throughout the region and nation. Get more info at marthabassettshow.com.

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 was proud to include sequential excerpts from one of her books in each issue from spring 2018 thru early 2021.

Rynn Hennings

Carmen Long

Joanna Radford

Sarah Southard

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. For more about Rynn, even more recipes, decorating tips, and much more, visit thehouseofelynryn.com

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.

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 June 2021 Issue

CONTRIBUTORS contd.

“Celebrating 84 YEARS OF SERVICE in the Area!”

www.thederbyrestaurant.com

1901 S. Main St • Mt. Airy • (336) 786-7082 Larry VanHoose 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 grandson, and they reside on a small farm just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Grayson County, VA.

Vie Herlocker Vie is the Associate Editor of Surry Living Magazine. Her professional affiliations include: Christian Proofreaders and Editors Network. American Christian Writers, American Christian Fiction Writers, and more. She is a certified member of the Christian Editor’s Connection (CEC).

Vie has been published in magazines, collections, and co-authored or ghosted several nonfiction books. ~ Vie Herlocker, AKA “The Book Mama”

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To view all inventory including new & preowned travel trailers & pop-ups, visit www.countrysidervcenter.com SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 7

home, farm, & garden

NEW FOR YOUR KIDS: Websites that Take the Work out of Learning!

By Guest Contributor, Kimberly Blaker

Limiting the time kids spend on the computer can be a daunting task. But there are plenty of fun educational sites kids will love that make learning a blast and making their time spent plugged in healthier.

Animals Abound Travel to faraway states and countries at National Geographic for Kids to discover all kinds of critters and cool places. In addition to freaky creatures, there are fun things you can make as well as photo tips with Hilary. You'll also discover lots of other weird stuff. http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/ Space is a Blast At NASA’s Star Child, there's plenty to discover. Do fun activities, learn the orbit each planet belongs to, and match planets to their descriptions. You can even calculate your own weight and age on each planet. For teens, click on a link to NASA's teen site and explore web pages to solve problems. http://starchild.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/StarChild/StarChild.html Pop, Dong, Kerplunk This site will keep you busy for hours. Brain Pop is a fun site dedicated to health, science, and technology. Thrill at the awesome background sounds, and find experiments, activities, cartoons, quizzes, and animated movies. http://www.brainpop.com/ Basics & Beyond FunBrain.com offers all levels of educational games in every subject. Play Grammar Gorillas, connect the dots by ones, fives, and even backward, or take the Brain Bowl quiz. There are even parent-kid challenges and parent quizzes. Click 'search for games', and discover many more awesome activities. http://funbrain.com/ Make me a Genius Exercise the left side of your brain with this fun science and math site loaded with fun games, quizzes, jokes, and videos. http://www.starfall.com/ Forest Fire Facts Visit Smokey Bear and get the Bear Facts, learn fire safety, and help Smokey in one of several interactive games.

projects. These free courses are really more like free fun. Prereaders can watch videos and listen to audio recordings as they move through interactive learning segments. The courses progress according to age, all the way through the teen years. https://code.org/student/elementary Keepin' It Green ClimateKids is another NASA site for kids. It answers kids' questions about weather and climate, the atmosphere, water, energy, plants, and animals. After clicking to read lots of fascinating facts, kids can scroll to the bottom of the page for fun activities, videos, games, and more. http://www.kidsplanet.org/ Medicine Madness At PBS’s A Science Odyssey, take an interactive visit to the doctor, play a game show called “That’s My Theory,” read comic stories about scientists, and learn about the discovery of penicillin. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aso/ Math, Money, & More Math has never been so cool as at Coolmath4Kids.com. Do brain benders, jigsaw puzzles, and play the lemon-aid stand game to improve your math and money skills. http://www.coolmath4kids.com/ Online Adventures Take a journey to The Greatest Places, and visit the Amazon, Tibet, Greenland, and other fascinating countries. Learn neat facts, watch videos, send postcards, play games, and find great activities to do at home. http://www.greatestplaces.org/ Presidential Probe

Coding Fun

There’s plenty to learn at The American Presidency—even for parents. Do activities and read fun facts about the campaign trail, life in the White House, and assassinations. Then, take a poll and share your thoughts.

At Code.org, kids can learn computer science by creating online

http://americanhistory.si.edu/presidency/home.html

http://www.smokeybear.com/

8 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

home, farm, & garden

Camper Supplies

RV Parts & Sales 804 Merita Street

mount airy, north carolina

On Hwy. 52 across from the Mayberry Mall

336-719-0166

SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 9

home, farm, & garden

You can Support your friends and neighbors WHILE finding great values on unique goods and services. It's time for all of us to ...

CHARIS CHRISTIAN BOOK AND GIFTS

MAIN STREET MARKET

128 N. Main St., Mount Airy, NC 336-673-0688 • Hours: Monday thru Saturday 9:30-5:00

140 N. Main St., Mount Airy, NC 336-970-9122 • Hours: Monday thru Saturday 10-6

June Special: Lots of new shirts!

20% off ALL Books!

Excellent ½ OFF Section!

Shop our large selection of Antiques, Artisans, Comics, Collectibles, and one-of-a-kind "finds!" MANY items on SALE!

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River Trail

TECHNOLOGY

276-237-4466 Serving Southwest Virginia, the Piedmont, and the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina

roysdiamond.com 10 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

IT Consulting Services

home, farm, & garden

What's New?

When my siblings and I were in our youth, our family lived in some worn-out, tenement housing neighborhoods where extended family sharing bedrooms was often part of our daily lives. Most folks scrambled to make ends meet and to put food on the table, so having something that was completely yours was the exception, rather than the rule.

Even our clothes were handed down from family member to family member, or neighbor to neighbor. Birthdays and Christmas usually consisted of just one present, hopefully that “thing” you’d been asking for like that new green bike with the sissy bars in the catalog, or that Willie Mays autographed baseball glove you’d had your eye on the last few years. If you were lucky maybe you’d also get a new pair of socks or superman pajamas. New anything was the real treasure in those leaner times for my family and friends.

Fast forward a few decades and I think that the word new has a different connotation altogether. Truth be told, with the fading art of true craftsmanship and the predominance of cheap, mass manufacturing, getting something new to replace your older, possibly broken “whatever,” doesn’t always mean you’ll be getting something new and improved.

by Larry VanHoose about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Did you read that?! Not death, life, angels, demons, fears, worries, powers of hell, power in the sky, powers in the earth, nothing in all creation. Nothing can separate us from God’s love.

Nothing.

He’s determined to make something amazing out of us, something wonderful, something new, a masterpiece even!

You wanna know something else? He’s determined to make something amazing out of us, something wonderful, something new, a masterpiece even! The Apostle Paul said that very thing, “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago" (Ephesians 2:10 NLT, emphasis mine).

I could tell you numerous stories and I’m betting’ you’d have a hundred of your own. Stories about how new things broke, fell apart, or went kaput. But there is one new that won’t fail, can’t be broken, and will never fade away. Can you guess? It’s the love of the heavenly father for us. I’ll prove it from the scriptures …

Let me finish up by saying this. It doesn’t matter to him where you came from, what awful, terrible things you might have done, how broken, cast off, and useless you, or anyone, might think you are. He is able. That’s the greatest truth — the treasure we’re really looking for — the new we need. Call out to him right now. You don’t have to get cleaned up, straightened up, or figured out before you do. Just call out to him – he is able to make all things new. He is able to make you new …

Romans 8:38-39 says, “I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries

“This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!” (2 Corinthians 5:17, NLT).

SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 11

home, farm, & garden

by Joanna Radford

Beating the Odds through a Pandemic

Written by James Garrett, Greenhouse Towers Owner, and Joanna Radford, Extension Agent

It is difficult to think about new businesses beginning in a time when much of the world has been in a holding pattern for the past year. However, there are new ventures stepping out and reaching for their dreams and some are being quite successful at it. One innovative horticulture business stands out in my mind, Greenhouse Towers, which is owned and operated by James Garrett and his lovely wife, Severin. While I met them a little over a year ago, their story begins much earlier.

for local residents, and contracts with both Hugh Chatham and Northern Regional Hospitals to supply all their lettuce needs, As life and businesses begin opening back up, James and Severin’s goal is to again reach out to restaurants. They are incredibly happy that Roaring Gap Club has recently signed on to buy their produce.

From James own words, “This last year I can honestly say has been one of the hardest of my life; I definitely do not recommend renovating an old house and starting a brand new business at the same time, especially during a pandemic. However, we have been forced to grow in ways we had not thought of and seek opportunity where we did not know to. I believe in the long run the pandemic has been a blessing in disguise. We have met folks we would have never thought to reach out too and our lives are richer for it. We have created a clientele that far surpasses what we would have imagined, and we truly feel that we are building a business one person, or maybe one lettuce at a time.”

James is originally from London, and over the past thirty plus years, he has lived in New York City and Atlanta. Although he is quick to say he does not have a background in horticulture, he began tower gardening ten years ago and has been successfully growing a variety of vegetables on their back deck ever since.

Through this experience, James developed a fascination with the technology of the aeroponic towers and the ability to grow “incredible, clean and densely nutritious food.” James was hooked on the towers, and this sparked their dream to open a vertical aeroponic tower garden farm and live in the North Carolina mountains.

Two years ago, this dream was realized as the couple left Atlanta and moved into a new “fixer upper” home in our area. Their initial plan was to grow a variety of lettuce, leafy greens, and herbs for a selection of restaurants and country clubs within a 15-mile radius. In Fall 2019, James and Severin contacted numerous restaurants to assess the need for these products. They found plenty of interest.

Over the winter of 2020, they built a 2100 square foot greenhouse on property leased from the Grassy Creek Vineyard and Winery in State Road. In early spring of 2020, they started growing seedlings to be transferred into the towers. Life was good. They were living their dream. They were producing food, and better yet, they were now selling it. Then the Covid-19 pandemic hit, and everything shut down, including their market.

James said they were left with no choice but to seek different avenues. He credits the local Chamber of Commerce and the Surry County Extension Center for aiding in a quick and swift switch to their business model. They would now utilize farmers’ markets, list pick-up locations online, and seek other commercial opportunities. This led to sales through two highly successful farmers markets, a selection of online ordering opportunities 12 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

Aeroponic towers grow plants without soil, producing a clean food product.

Photo Credits: James and Severin Garrett

As James works diligently in the greenhouse with the towers, Severin is equally devoted as a health coach. Her passion is to help people learn about the importance of nutrition and healthy lifestyle. This is a great parallel to the tower work. As they both love to learn, it has become their passion to help those around them to not just understand the importance of good nutrition but ultimately have access to it. They will tell you, “The food we grow on our towers is both cleaner and more densely nutritious than anything available anywhere, except another tower garden farm, of course. It is both a pleasure and a privilege to be able to serve our local community with such a high quality of produce.”

James is not sure what the next couple of years will look like for Greenhouse Towers, but he does know one thing. He says, “I am confident of is, that we will continue to grow the best produce possible and make it available to as many people as we can.”

Greenhouse Towers attends the Elkin Farmer’s Market each Saturday from 9 a.m. – 12 noon at 226 North Bridge Street and can be found at www.greenhousetowers.com.

home, farm, & garden

MULLINS PAWN SHOP & JEWELERS YES - WE ARE OPEN! Mt. Airy’s Premier Retirement Community 1000 Ridgecrest Lane • Mt. Airy, NC 27030 (336) 443.6953 • Ridge-Crest.com Adjusted Regular Store Hours: Mullins Pawn Shop & Jewelers Mon–Fri: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm 336-786-6417 • 336-789-7109 Saturday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm 1911 Caudle Dr, Mount Airy, NC

INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING

SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 13

home, farm, & garden

by Sarah Southard, DVM

Plant-ing for Your Pet's Wellbeing With a new season comes new landscaping projects and fresh new plants around the yard and house. Along with this may come new hazards to your pets and livestock. Let’s discuss a few new-to-your-home potential problems related to the spring refreshing going on around the house, yard, and garden.

Houseplants are very popular these days. It seems that every time I visit a hardware store or grocery store there is a new variety of plant offerings to brighten up the house. They are marketed for their air purifying abilities, their ability to “bring a little bit of nature inside,” and simply for their beauty. But some of these natural beauties can also bring new pet hazards inside as well.

A very popular houseplant or “tropical” plant offered at almost every retailer which boasts a garden center is the Sago Palm. Its beautiful fronds are irresistible for some, but if your dog, cat or horse is among those, the consequences could be fatal. While not necessarily fatal, several other common plants, both indoor and outdoor, are toxic to pets. Daffodils, azaleas, rhododendrons, begonias, caladiums, dieffenbachia, mums, lilies of any type.

The list goes on and on. So must we abandon ship and totally clear out our landscaping and indoor flora in order to keep our animals safe? Certainly not! But do be aware that many plants are dangerous for pets; educate yourself on any new items you add to your collection this season. The ASPCA maintains an ever-growing list of plants which are know to be toxic to dogs,

cats, and horses. You may visit www.aspca.org/pet-care/animalpoison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants to access it.

Also of concern in landscapes are the various products that are used to control unwanted plants and creepy-crawly pests. Herbicides, slug and snail baits, rodent control, and insecticides are very commonly used throughout the spring and summer. Some A small Sago Palm products are safe after they have had time to dry after application. Others are safe after rainfall or other watering-in. Read all the label information on any products that you apply to your yard, flower, or vegetable gardens. Double-check the information related to pets. Chemical and natural fertilizers can be of concern as well. Again, read all labeling and follow the directions for proper protection of your animals.

It is extremely important to remember that simply because a product is labeled as organic, all-natural, or plant-based does not always mean that it is safe or healthy for us or our animals. After all, some of these very products were chosen for the express purpose of killing the flora and fauna that you do not want in your yard or gardens. And as we discussed above, there are scores of naturally occurring plants that are toxic and sometimes deadly for animals (and humans.) There is so much misinformation available these days. Don’t fall for a slick advertising campaign. Educate yourself using reliable sources of information. Gardening is so much more enjoyable when we know we are doing things in a manner that maintains a safe environment for our animals.

SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 15

out & about

by Sheri Wren Haymore

Serving the Community in New Ways

Surry County is fortunate to have many entrepreneurs who are dedicated to serving their community in innovative ways.

We checked in with six businesses to find out what they were offering new and discovered that, for many, the past difficult year proved to be a catalyst for change – in a good way.

Dock Southern Farms is a new business born on the family-run farm

Take Wall Greenhouse and Nursery in Dobson, for example.

Since 2018, Michael and Terrea Wall have run the business started in 1983 by Michael’s parents. These days, the Walls strive to make the property a safe, happy place to bring people together not only to purchase plants but also to learn better planting and growing techniques. To that end, they host seasonal open houses with workshops and vendor events. Always, they’re searching out new varieties to please customers, as well as fun ideas such as children’s parties, fairy garden workshops, or outdoor wedding florals. Terrea enjoys helping customers visualize a personalized masterpiece for their landscaping space or floral pots. One thing she realized during 2020 was that not everyone knows how to plant and maintain a garden. People stuck at home wanted to grow things but had no idea how to go about it, and she was able to teach folks about seeds and soils, plants and what to expect – a service that should carry them well into the future!

the property as a heritage showcase for local handcrafts, music events, and theater productions. Meanwhile she continues to explore the agricultural aspect, visiting farms around the state and moving forward with cut flower plantings and wild-caught bees arriving soon. What a blessing and adventure a very difficult time turned into for her family!

We discovered one business that opened because of COVID— Dock Southern Farms in Level Cross. When Cindy Marion moved back to her family farm, she dreamed that someday, when she retired, she’d pursue Agri-tourism. Then COVID hit.

Her three adult children returned home, the sixth generation to live on the farm. As they used their time to do much-needed upkeep, they caught their mother’s vision for a safe, social environment for the community and soon planned a business model. As a result, Dock Southern Farms opened during the pandemic with a Pumpkin Patch in October, offering COVIDsafe games, pumpkin carving, and storytelling – and, of course, pumpkins for sale. Cindy describes the family’s plans to develop

A repeated theme was the satisfaction these entrepreneurs derive from pleasing their customers. Will Bullin, owner of Bullin Upholstery Furniture Repair on Red Brush Road, says that when he reupholsters a piece for someone, he finds satisfaction in the customer’s happiness in the finished work. Particularly during the past year, people were craving a fresh look for their homesturned-workplace. Because he’s continually learning better ways to pursue his craft and does the absolute best work possible, Will can say that his customer walks away with a better-than-new piece. For the future, he’s excited about his plans to build his own furniture and offer his exclusive custom line. Now that’s a Surry County entrepreneur who’s ready for whatever comes next!

16 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

Continued on Page 18

Choose Well. Choose Northern.

Choose Well. Choose Northern.

Northern Cardiology Welcomes

NATHAN D. MCGEATHY, Cardiology Nurse Practitioner

Nathan D. McGeathy, FNP-C, has joined the clinical care team of Northern Cardiology, a division of Northern Regional Hospital that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with both acute and chronic heart conditions, including chest pain, arrhythmias, palpitations, heart failure, valvular disease, and other forms of minor and major cardiac complications. McGeathy worked previously as a Nurse Practitioner for Novant Health Cardiology.

The 33-year-old cardiac specialist – who has years of experience assessing and responding to patients’ needs in such high-stress/high-tech clinical environments as emergency departments, critical-care, and cardiology units – is eager to bring his energy and expertise to Northern and its cardiology clinic.

“I’ve always had a passion for cardiology and a personal goal to be an advocate for patients,” said McGeathy. “I enjoy taking time with my patients to explain the complexities of their particular problem, and then offer appropriate medical interventions that can help them feel better and extend or save their lives.”

McGeathy’s motivation for pursuing a lifelong career in nursing was seeded while he was still a child, living with his parents and teenage sister. “My father was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer when I was 10 years old; and that was my blunt introduction to healthcare,” he recalls. “I remember being scared, in shock, and confused. It was a year-long battle – with my father in and out of the hospital and eventually in hospice care – but I also recall the friendliness and compassion of the doctors and nurses, who lifted us up every day. Their care and concern for my father and our family had a lifelong effect on me – and I thought, ‘I want to be that rock for someone else someday’ … and nursing became my path to achieve that goal.”

“I developed my passion for cardiology during my Nurse Practitioner training – when I had the opportunity to work in a really rural area of North Carolina, where many of my patients had received little to no medical care throughout their lives,” explained McGeathy. “I was able to diagnose chronic conditions that they had endured for many years or decades, and work with them to implement a medical regimen that, within as little as six months, typically resulted in a very positive improvement in their physical health, energy, and outlook on life. It was

very rewarding to watch this kind of positive transformation occur.”

While acknowledging that each patient must be treated individually, McGeathy said that his philosophy to patient care is based on building trust, and includes many elements that apply to all patients. “I believe in educating the patient and family on their healthcare condition, providing them with recommended treatment guidelines, and then making decisions together on how to proceed,” he said. “When patients understand their disease process and are informed of the things that can be done to either modify or stop that disease progression, it’s more likely to result in long-term positive change.”

“I also believe that patients ‘know’ their own bodies – so it’s important to listen carefully to what they say,” he added.

As a Nurse Practitioner with the cardiology team, McGeathy explains that he will “see patients in the hospital for acute problems such as chest pain, atrial fib, and heart failure; and also see patients at the outpatient clinic for routine follow-up, medication management, and diagnosis and treatment.” Given Northern’s extensive diagnostic capabilities – including heart ultrasound, detailed imaging, and cardiac stress testing -- McGeathy hopes to enhance the inhouse management of cardiac patients rather than transferring them to another facility farther away from their homes and families. “When medically appropriate, we can keep patients in their own community – so they’re closer to their families and friends,” he explains.

During his non-nursing hours, McGeathy admits he’s “an avid hunter and fisher, specifically trout and bass. My wife Kristina [who will graduate from nursing school in May] and I enjoy hiking, working out, traveling and visiting family.” Indoor activities, he says, may involve listening to Texas-style country music, watching action movies, listening to podcasts, and reading military books – with a current favorite being Unbroken – which, he says, is “a World War II book about survival and resilience.”

To schedule an appointment with Nathan McGeathy, FNP-C please call Northern Cardiology at 336-786-6146; visit the office at 708 S. South Street, Suite 200 Mount Airy, NC www.choosenorthern.org

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

out & about Even established businesses have found new ways of doing things. Debi McHone of Salon 222 in Mount Airy opened her shop ten years ago and has grown it into a full-service salon.

The salon strives to provide clients with the services they desire.

The past year has been challenging, and Debi made the difficult decision to do what was right for herself and the well-being of her staff, and so the salon continues to follow strict COVID protocols. The interesting thing that has come from this is that no one on staff contracted even a common cold, and going forward, she intends to continue the work ethic of thoroughly cleaning every station between each client. As a vital part of the community, the salon participates in fundraisers and offers local products, such as jewelry and produce in season.

Another entrepreneur who turned 2020 into an opportunity is Karen Gillespie of Welcome Home Décor and Gifts in Mount Airy. When the shutdown occurred, Karen knew she needed to move forward with whatever services people asked for. She used the time to create the online store she’d always had in mind and to grow her social media presence. From this came the popular Facebook Live sales, an opportunity to present her product and for customers to shop from home in the evenings. She still offers curbside service and intends to continue the mix of instore and online shopping. More than ever, Karen appreciates the relationships with people and says that the blessing that has come out of the pandemic is that it gave more people an opportunity to support local businesses!

More than once, the vision to share with the community was mentioned. Mayberry Meadows Weddings and Events in White Plains was founded at the end of 2019 by Gina Barnes, who inherited the property from her mother. As the third generation, Gina saw the farm as a happy place for people to enjoy and knew the view from the oak tree planted in 1900 was one she wanted to share. Dakota Goff, manager and in-house photographer, says the event center barely got started before having to shut down for COVID. During the past difficult year, they offered DIY workshops in small, safe groups, such as a cookie baking class and a charcuterie preparation session, bringing in small businesses to offer their skills. She plans to continue these as night workshops even as the offerings of micro-weddings, full weddings, elopements, showers, birthday parties, and corporate events resume.

From each of these entrepreneurs, we heard a deep appreciation for local support. Each business has a social media presence, as do many others. Let’s all seek out and support local businesses and keep Surry County a thriving community!

18 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

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out & about

by Martha Bassett

THE WAITING Tom Petty famously said, “The waiting is the hardest part.”

Indeed! Everyone has seasons of waiting. For Christmas, for graduation, for watermelons to ripen. One of the things I love about gardening is the long arc of planting to harvesting, and all the stages of growth and maintenance in between. It’s an exercise in patience. In the past year or so, many non-cooks have learned to make their own meals and even bake bread.

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as watching dough rise and punching it down to rise again. But the waiting is hard.

remembered to put out the butter to soften while the dough was rising. Finally, you experience a goodness that no storebought bread can rival. You put time and effort into that loaf.

You had to pay attention to the process and be there all day.

You had to wait. When you took the first bite it was worth every minute.

For over a year now I’ve missed indoor band rehearsals, visiting friends, eating in restaurants, church with a congregation, and shows with a live audience. I’ve missed my family. I have a son living in Oregon and haven’t seen him since 2019. The world

You know how your stomach growls when you smell bread baking? You can almost taste it, but not yet. Then you bring it to the counter but still have to wait for it to cool. Perhaps you

Photo of Debbie Carson (owner of Reeves Theater) by Ben Singer

is finally beginning to recover and some of these things are now possible. We’ve been in the most frustrating in-between time – when we could smell the bread baking but couldn’t quite have a bite.

That’s what makes my news for you all the more delicious.

I’m happy to announce that the Reeves Theater, the home of The Martha Bassett Show, will be re-opening to the public on June 25-26 for live music, just in time to host the Elkin Roots Music Festival. The Reeves is also participating in NC Trail Days the first weekend of June showing films and hosting speakers.

I was speaking recently with Debbie Carson, one of the owners of the Reeves, about this whole process. It’s so much more complicated than just opening the doors. Staffing and restocking the cafe and bar are a big undertaking. Many small 20 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

out & about businesses don’t have the revenue to make that step, especially after a year of no ticket sales. The Reeves opened for business in 2017 after a lengthy renovation of the old theater, which was in terrible disrepair. Many local musicians lovingly helped restore the venue that would become their musical home, and Elkin has become a stopping off point for national artists traveling through NC. The sound is superb. and the space is beyond beautiful. Debbie and the whole Reeves team have kept the safety of the public, their staff, and all the artists foremost in mind when deciding how and when to reopen.

They’ve generously given us space from which to livestream all of last year and for the beginning of this year. I hope that once you’re ready to enjoy some live music, you’ll check out the Reeves’ schedule and support a business that has been a strong heartbeat to Elkin and the region as a whole.

The Martha Bassett Show will continue live-streaming on first and third Thursdays, but on July 1, I hope you’ll join us in person. My guests will be the New York City duo Our Band (Justin Poindexter and Sasha Papernik), and Grammy-winning guitarist Redd Volkaert, who spent many years in Merle Haggard’s band. The cook at the Reeves bakes all of her bread fresh, so come early for lunch. Then you could spend the afternoon walking the trails, checking out other downtown Elkin businesses, or visiting Grassy Creek Vineyard for a wine tasting before coming to our show at 7 p.m. The wait is almost over, friends!

Almost!

SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 21

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22 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

out & about

by Gin Denton

The Box Dogs

Since high school band in 2006, Levi Schmidt, Zach Barth, and Halee Coe have made music together. Their current band, the Box Dogs, is named for a loyal dog waiting at the mailbox daily.

Levi plays mandolin, sings, and sometimes plays drums. Zach plays guitar and sings. Halee is a fantastic bass player who has a soulful singing voice. This Americana group says their sound can be classified as a combo of folk rock and blues. The band hails from Surry County, with Elkin as its home base.

The Box Dogs play a variety of music, with 50/50 cover songs and original music. They are actively working on their first

to play at the Reeves (Elkin’s fabulous music venue), Shakori Hills Festival (a wonderful music festival outside of Chapel Hill), and Merlefest.

This trio has played together and with other bands over the years. Halee was a member of the popular local band NF52.

Levi participated in the NC State drum line previously, but currently he’s focused on his engineering studies at State. Levi is loyal to the band, and even though his studies keep him away from home, he still makes it back for practice and gigs.

The Box Dogs have traveled as far as Swananoa, near Asheville to perform for a charity concert. They are huge advocates of helping their community and do a lot of charity shows.

Zach and Halee both work for the Children’s Center of NW North Carolina, based in Dobson, NC. Their roles in this facility help make a better world for kids. Halee is the youth coordinator, and Zack is the director of compliance and development. Along with juggling the band and his studies, Levi works in Durham as a pharmaceutical contractor.

The Box Dogs have a Facebook page that they use to share videos, stay in touch with fans, and share upcoming shows.

They do a lot of private shows, like home and corporate parties. You can also hear them at Trail Days, in Elkin, NC, the first weekend in June.

The Festival hosts several activities throughout the weekend from hiking and biking to crafts and scavenger hunts. The Music Trail on Elkin’s Main Street will be a stroll of music, with a variety of local musicians each day.

Catch the Box Dogs there at the Heritage Center on June 3, from 5–7 p.m. and in the Angry Troll parking lot on June 5, from 7–9 p.m.

album, Bonas’ Defeat, which is titled after an Appalachian folk story of a dog chasing a deer and jumping off the cliff after it.

When asked about their goals as a band, they all said they want to have a solid regional presence. They would really like

Happy Trails to you!

SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 23

simply delicious

with Rynn Hennings

thehouseofelynryn.com

Ingredients for Smash Burgers • 1 pound of hamburger (80/20 or 85/15 fat to lean ratio) • 1/8 teaspoon paprika • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce • 1/8 teaspoon onion powder • 2 teaspoons brown sugar • 1 tablespoon ketchup • 1 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper • 3 slices cheese, cut in half (use your favorite burger cheese) • 3 slices bacon, cooked • 6 Hawaiian sweet rolls Directions for Caramelized Onions 1. Thinly slice the onions and place them in a nonstick skillet with olive oil. Cook on medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes or until they start to brown.

2. Add ½ cup of water to the pan and stir. Cook until the water evaporates. Keep adding ½ cup of water, and let it cook off until the onions brown and caramelize.

Directions for Mayonnaise Sauce 1. In a small bowl, stir together the pickle, mayonnaise, and ketchup; set aside.

Directions for Topping Glaze 1. Stir together melted butter, Worcestershire, mustard, brown sugar, and sesame seeds. Set aside.

T

hese smash burger sliders remind me of my favorite restaurant burger – juicy, flavorful, and just a little messy! To make restaurant-style burgers at home, use higher fat hamburger, don’t press out the juice with a spatula while cooking, and use a meat thermometer so you don’t overcook them. These burgers are best cooked in a frying pan either on a stove or grill. And with the sweet buttery glaze on top of the Hawaiian bread, you’ll definitely need a napkin or two.

SMASH BURGER SLIDERS Servings: 6 | Prep Time: 30 mins | Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients for Caramelized Onions • 1 medium sweet onion, thinly sliced into rings • 1 tablespoon olive oil Ingredients for Mayonnaise Sauce • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise • 2 teaspoons ketchup • 1 ½ teaspoons dill or sweet pickle, minced Ingredients for Topping Glaze • ¼ cup butter, melted • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce • ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard • 1 teaspoon brown sugar • 2 teaspoons sesame seeds 24 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

Directions for Smash Burgers 1. Cook the bacon and set aside.

2. Place a long piece of aluminum foil on a baking pan and add the Hawaiian rolls, breaking them apart. Cut off the tops of the rolls and set aside. Add the mayonnaise sauce to the bottom of the rolls and spread it out evenly.

3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. 4. Place the burger in a mixing bowl. In a separate small bowl, stir together the paprika, Worcestershire, onion powder, brown sugar, ketchup, salt, and pepper and then add it to the meat and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Divide the burger into 8 discs or balls. (Although the recipe calls for making 6 sliders, hamburger usually comes in a 1-pound size so you will have 2 leftover burgers for making double-burger sliders or extras.

6. Place 3 hamburger discs in a large skillet with enough oil to lightly coat the pan. Using a spatula, press the burgers thin and leave any uneven edges. Cook on medium heat for 2 minutes and flip, cooking another minute or until the burgers are 132 degrees F (medium-rare) or 137 degrees F (medium). Do not overcook. Set aside with a cover to keep the burgers warm. Repeat until all the burgers are cooked.

7. Add the cooked burgers to the prepared bread. Add ½ slice of cheese to each and then ½ slice of bacon.

8. Divide the caramelized onions and place them on top of the bacon. Add the roll tops.

simply delicious 9. Stir the topping glaze and then brush it all over the tops and sides of the rolls until all the glaze is used. Fold the aluminum foil up over the burgers and place in the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are warm. Serve immediately.

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110 S. Davis Street Pilot Mountain, NC 336-368-4455 SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 25

simply delicious

You “Can” Do It! FOOD PRESERVATION, A FAMILY TRADITION In many families, food preservation is a summer tradition.

Older family members take pride in sharing their skills with younger generations. What began as a necessity for survival prior to the availability of reasonably priced food supplies throughout the year – home canning, drying, and freezing – is now done mainly by choice.

There is nothing like the satisfaction of seeing jars of home canned goodness lined up on a shelf. The taste is superior compared to anything available to purchase commercially.

Considering statistics show that on the average our food travels 1500 miles before it lands on our table, there is comfort in knowing where our food comes from, where it has been, how fresh it is and how it was handled. But was that food preserved at home prepared according to current recommendations?

Through the years, times have changed and so have food preservation guidelines.

I frequently hear, “This is the way we have always done it, and we have never gotten sick.” But is that safe enough? Do we really want to risk taking chances with our health? Why not use the benefits of years of research, and process according to current recommendations? It will only take a few more minutes, and

it may save you from losing some of your canned goods to spoilage or keep you or a family member from getting sick.

Consider this comparison. Would you continue to wash your clothes on a washboard just because your grandmother taught you to do it that way if you had access to a washing machine? Which would be easier, less time consuming, and produce cleaner clothing, the washboard, or the washing machine? Use up to date canning recommendations to make food preservation easier and safer.

COVID has brought many changes to our world. The summer of 2020 found people staying home with more time to garden and an increased interest in canning, freezing, and drying. Have you looked for canning jars or lids lately? The popularity of home food preservation during the past year has resulted in a shortage of canning supplies and freezers.

Want to gain food preservation knowledge from the convenience of home? With the limitations of in person classes at Cooperative Extension, our food preservation classes have gone virtual. Our current series includes information on Pressure Canning, Boiling Water Bath Canning, Freezing, Drying, Sweet Spread, and Fermentation.

Previous classes have been videoed so participants may request and watch them for free at their convenience. This is a good resource to answer some of your questions or to make sure your food preservation practices are following current recommendations.

Cooperative Extension can check the accuracy of your dial gauge canners and has many free food preservation publications available online and in print.

Before you spend your valuable time and resources to preserve foods for future use, call or come by the Extension office at 915 E. Atkins Street in Dobson to make sure that you are doing all that you can to ensure a safe and highquality product for you and your family to enjoy.

QUICK REFRIGERATOR PICKLES

Have extra cucumbers or other vegetables? Use them to make quick refrigerator pickles. No canner required.

Step 1. Prepare Vegetables Wash and chop vegetables into the desired shape you would like for pickles. This recipe does not require any cooking prior to pickling.

Step 2. Select Flavorings Get creative with fresh or dry flavorings. Mix and match from the following suggested list of fresh and dried herbs and spices to add up to 2 tablespoons per jar. Dried herbs are a more concentrated source and may not take as much.

26 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

simply delicious Dry Bay leaves Celery seed Chile peppers Cumin seed Dill seed Mustard seed Pickling spice Peppercorns Turmeric

Fresh Jalapeno or habanero pepper Dill Garlic Oregano Shallot Horseradish

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

JUNE IS

MEN’S HEALTH MONTH

June is the month that we celebrate dads. What better time is there for men to get their health screenings scheduled?

Step 3. Pack Vegetables Pack prepared vegetables snugly into washed pint-sized canning jars or similar sized glass or heatproof plastic containers with lids.

Step 4. Make Brine Make either sweet or sour brine using the following recipes: Sour Brine 3 cups white or apple cider vinegar (5% acidity) 3 cups water 3 Tbsp. canning/pickling salt 2 Tbsp. sugar

Sweet Brine 3 cups white or apple cider vinegar (5% acidity) 3 cups water 2 Tbsp. canning/pickling salt 1 ½ cups sugar

Even healthy men need to get health screenings for preventive care.

If you are a man with Medicare coverage, now is the time to talk with your doctor about getting screened for prostate cancer, colorectal cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Medicare covers prostate screenings once every 12 months for men over 50 and the colorectal screening tests every 120 months, unless at high risk.

Cardiovascular screenings can detect conditions that could lead to heart attack or stroke and are covered by Medicare once every five years.

Ask a SHIIP counselor for more information.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: NC COOPERATIVE EXT, SURRY CO @ 336-401-8025

Bring brine to a boil and let boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 5. Fill Jars with Brine Carefully fill the jars with brine to within 1/2 inch of the top of the rim. Place the lids on the jars and refrigerate. Allow flavor to develop for 1 – 2 days before serving. Use within 2 weeks.

Source: University of Maine Cooperative Extension

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Mail Order Available SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 27

area calendars & info

SURRY COUNTY AREA UPCOMING EVENTS EDITORS NOTE: The following events are subject to cancellation or postponement due to the Covid-19 pandemic or other factors. While outside of our control, this information was current as of press time.

JUNE 3 – 6 (ELKIN): NC TRAIL DAYS 2021 Its a great way to get outdoors, explore, and celebrate our trails safely. *CDC Guidelines will be followed* Registration is LIVE! Visit the NCTD Website at www.nctraildays.com JUNE 4 (ELKIN): NC TRAIL DAYS LOW COUNTRY BOIL 6:00 p.m – 8:00 p.m.; Tickets are $25 and include boxed dinner, priority seating, live music, water, and tea. Wine and Beer available for purchase. Enjoy live music from area favorites James Tucker Band and Big Daddy Mojo. LOW COUNTRY BOIL DINNER PLATES ARE PRE-PURCHASE ONLY. Get tickets at www.eventbrite.com/e/nc-trail-days-low-country-boil-tickets-148693970669 JUNE 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, AND 26 (GALAX): LIVE MUSIC ON FRIDAY & SATURDAYS AT CREEK BOTTOM BREWERY 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.; featuring June 4 – Colby Elswick, June 5 – Bob Chew, June 11 – Thrillbillyz, June 12 – Mackenzie Phipps, June 18 – William Seymour, June 19 – Junior & The Jar Shakers, June 25 – Michael Tracy Duo, June 26 – Black Mountain Revival. We have a new, larger covered indoor/outdoor patio.

Pet friendly! See ad page 19. Creek Bottom Brewery, 307 N Meadow Street, Galax, VA JUNE 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, AND 26 (ELK CREEK, VA): ELK CREEK DRAGWAY RACING 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.; Located at 711 Victory Lane, Elk Creek, VA. For more info, visit elkcreekdragway.com JUNE 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, AND 26 (MOUNT AIRY, NC): HISTORIC DOWNTOWN MOUNT AIRY GHOST TOURS, Friday and Saturday nights at 8:00 p.m.; 90 minute, lantern-lit walking tour through Mount Airy's streets and its historic past. You will hear about 13 of our "less mortal" friends and some of Mount Airy's resting places.

Tours begin at the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History, 301 N. Main Street. Tickets are $15 (tax included) and pre-paid reservations are required! Call the Museum at 336-786-4478 to make your reservation.

JUNE 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, AND 26 (MOUNT AIRY, NC): MAYBERRY SPIRITS WHISKEY DISTILLERY TOURS, 431 N. South St. Open Fridays & Saturdays from 12:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.. Tours at 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m.. Reservations recommended. $10 per person for an approximately 45-min. tour, which includes a souvenir shot glass and 5 tastings. Gift shop is open! Call 336-719-6860 for more info.

JUNE 5 (GALAX): BRMC SUMMER CONCERTS: SCYTHIAN 7:00 p.m., at the Blue Ridge Music Center, 700 Foothills Road, Galax, VA (Blueridge Parkway Milepost 213). Visit blueridgemusiccenter.org for more information on the artist, venue, and for tickets.

JUNE 6 (STATE ROAD): JOSH SOLO LIVE AT SERRE VINEYARDS 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.. featuring Dave Matthews Band covers, blues, rock, reggae and jams! Located at 364 Beast Trail, Mount Airy, NC JUNE 7-11 (MT AIRY): ANIMAL CAMP, 4-7 YEARS OLD AT MT AIRY MUSEUM OF REGIONAL HISTORY 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m.. Learn more about your favorite animals! We'll explore the different types of animals as well as learn more about our pets. Each day includes crafts and activities. Museum Members $80; non-members $100 (per child per week). A discount is given for additional family members who attend. Each camp is limited to 15 campers. For more information and to register, contact Justyn Kissam at 336-786-4478 ext 228 JUNE 10-12 (STUART, VA): BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL 332 Wayside Park Rd, Stuart, VA. Camping details to be determined at a later date, but will be offered (depends on covid restrictions). Call (276) 692-7853 or visit Beachfestival.com/ for more information.

JUNE 14-18 (WESTFIELD): YOUNG EXPLORERS SUMMER DAY CAMP, 6-8 YEARS OLD AT MINGLEWOOD FARM & NATURE PRESERVE 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.. Minglewood is a community-based environmental education nonprofit center nestled on 65 beautiful acres in the Piedmont foothills. Visit minglewoodpreserve. org/workshops-and-programs or www.facebook.com/minglewoodpreserve/ for registration links and info.

JUNE 18 (DOBSON): MOVIES IN THE PARK FEATURING "ONWARD" Movies begin at nightfall at Dobson Square Park, 110 S. Crutchfield St., Dobson, NC. Free Admission!

28 • SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue

area calendars & info JUNE 19 (GALAX): BRMC SUMMER CONCERTS: AMYTHYST KIAH WITH AARON BURDETT 7:00 p.m., at the Blue Ridge Music Center, 700 Foothills Road, Galax, VA (Blueridge Parkway Milepost 213). Visit blueridgemusiccenter.org for more information on the artist, venue, and tickets.

JUNE 19 (STATE ROAD): FATHER'S DAY COMEDY SHOW AT GOLDEN ROAD VINEYARDS 6:00 p.m.

Located at 542 Golden Road, State Road, NC; For info and to register, https://golden-road-vineyards. square.site/product/father-s-day-comedy-show/125 JUNE 21-25 (MT AIRY): STEAM CAMP, 8–12 YEARS OLD AT MT AIRY MUSEUM OF REGIONAL HISTORY 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Hands on experimentation about topics such as gravity, space, the human body and more. A ton of fun with plenty of learning.

Each day includes crafts and activities. Museum Members $80; non-members $100 (per child per week) A discount is given for additional family members who attend. Each camp is limited to 15 campers. For more info and to register, contact Justyn Kissam at 336-786-4478 ext 228

FARMERS MARKETS MOUNT AIRY, NC: MOUNT AIRY FARMER'S MARKET OPENED FOR THE SEASON ON FRIDAY, APRIL 23 Fridays 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., 111 South Main Street ELKIN FARMER'S MARKET OPENED FOR THE SEASON ON SATURDAY, APRIL 24 Saturdays 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. (June 5, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.); 226 North Bridge Street, Elkin, NC DOBSON FARMERS MARKET OPENS FOR THE SEASON ON THURSDAY, MAY 13: Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. — 7:00 p.m., 903 Atkins St.

JUNE 21-25 (WESTFIELD): YOUNG EXPLORERS SUMMER DAY CAMP, 9-12 YEARS OLD AT MINGLEWOOD FARM & NATURE PRESERVE 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.. Minglewood is a communitybased environmental education nonprofit center nestled on 65 beautiful acres in the Piedmont foothills. Visit minglewoodpreserve.org/ workshops-and-programs or www.facebook.com/ minglewoodpreserve/ for registration links and info.

JUNE 26 (GALAX): BRMC SUMMER CONCERTS: MIPSO 7:00 p.m., at the Blue Ridge Music Center, 700 Foothills Road, Galax, VA (Blueridge Parkway Milepost 213). Visit blueridgemusiccenter.org for more information on the artist, venue, and tickets.

JUNE 28-29 (WESTFIELD): FASHION FROM NATURE AT MINGLEWOOD FARM & NATURE PRESERVE 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.. Visit minglewoodpreserve.org/ workshops-and-programs or www.facebook.com/ minglewoodpreserve/ for registration links and info.

JUNE 26 (FRIES, VA): THUNDER BY THE RIVER CRUISE-IN 3:00 p.m. till dark; Located at Fries Town Park, 336 Firehouse Drive, Fries, VA JULY 2 (ELKIN): FREEDOMFEST 2021 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.. Live music, food trucks, kid's activities, and craft vendors. Fun for everyone! There will be lots of fireworks after dark.

SURRY LIVING June 2021 Issue • 29

A Lifetime of Healthy Smiles Starts Here!

Discover Mount Airy Pediatric Dentistry

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Keeping your heart closer to home.

Tamas Balogh, MD

Cardiology

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