Surry Living Magazine - October 2022

Power and adaptability to do it all. All year round.

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SURRY LIVING

PO Box 125 Low Gap, NC 27024 surryliving.com • info@surryliving.com

content submissions send to larry@surryliving.com

CREATIVE

LARRY VANHOOSE executive editor

TRINA VANHOOSE

VIE STALLINGS HERLOCKER associate editor

SALES

OLIVIA MCMILLAN

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:

Alleghany County Chamber of Commerce, Page 30

Alleghany Hillbilly Comedy & Variety Show, Page 31

Alpha & Omega Corn Maze, Page 8

Anderson Audiology, Page 25

Blue Mountain Herbs & Supplements, Page 29

Camper & Mobile Home Supply, Page 12

Charis Christian Books & Gifts, Page 25

Cook Insurance Group, Page 9

Cooke Rentals, Page 13

Countryside RV, Page 7

The Derby, Page 26

Farmer's Mulch & Rock, Page 13

Friendly Heating & Cooling, Inc., Page 5

Galax Tourism, Page 23

Hope House Missionary Thrift Store, Page 4

Hugh Chatham Memorial Hospital, Pages 2, 20

Johnson's Xtreme Softwash, Page 15

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Laurel Oak Farm Rentals, Page 11

Legacy Creek Fall Festival, Page 29

Main Street Market, Page 26

The Martha Bassett Show, Page 16

Mount Airy Equipment, Page 3

Mount Airy Museum of Regional History, Page 28

Mountain Valley Hospice & Palliative Care, Page 9

Mullins Pawn Shop & Jewelers, Page 9

Noa's Bridal, Page 19

NC Cooperative Extension, Pages 21, 25

Northern Regional Hospital, Pages 17, 32

Ridgecrest Retirement, Page 21

Roy's Diamonds, Page 11

Royster & Royster Attorneys at Law, Page 11

Shelton Vineyards, Page 27

Stand with Bently Pediatric Stroke Event, Page 23

Surry Communications, Page 14

Ted Benbow / Mossy Oak Properties, Page 31

Waterlily Wellness, Page 7

Great Deals for a Great Cause!

312 N. White St

• Dobson, NC

Long:

Area Events: Note: All events are subject to being canceled or postponed. We recommend visiting visitmayberry.com and the other area venue websites for the most up-to-date event schedules and ticketing information.

Martha Bassett

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 Brown

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.

Carmen Long

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.

CONTRIBUTORS

Joanna Radford

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 Ex tension in Stokes County in 1995 as a 4-H Agent, later switching to Field Crops and Pesticide Educa tion 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.

Sheri Wren Haymore

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

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

Sarah Southard

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.

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 (so far!), and they reside on a small farm just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Grayson County, VA.

Larry VanHoose

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”

Friday:

Nicole Wimbish NCLMBT #17194 336-783-7652 • email: zenmassage.bodywork@yahoo.com

Mount Airy, NC www.wellbeinganddaydreams.com

I CAN'T SEE IN BLACK AND WHITE

In my humble opinion, Ansel Adams was one of the greatest, if not the greatest photographer to ever use a camera. Adams, along with photographer Fred Archer, developed the process known as the Zone System, which was a way of precise control of exposure, negative development, and printing to capture the full tonal range of a photographic image. While I was in college pursuing my degree in commercial photography, it was Adams that I attempted to emulate almost from the start. After all, to be the best you should learn from the best, right?

There was just one problem. No matter how well I followed all of Adam’s methods, no matter the painstaking attention to detail I put into my camera and darkroom work, I always felt my black and white prints were mediocre at best, and boring at the worst. At least to me. Others bragged on them, but I knew in my heart that they were sub-par. I spent a couple of years straining my eyes and equipment in the college labs reaching for the stars so to speak, but I was just never satisfied with the results. Good grades are not a substitute for job satisfaction.

Finally, after yet another frustrating discussion with one of my professors, he made a comment that eventually transformed my photography and ultimately my chosen profession. “Some people just can’t see in black and white,” he stated. “If you’ve given it your best effort, perhaps you should instead look for what you are gifted at? Everyone has a gift, but they are not all the same.” Man, what a bummer that was. What I thought I wanted most was something I was probably never going to grasp – discouraging and heartbreaking.

So, rather than take his word for it, I initially went back after it. It wasn’t long though, and after taking a few more shots at it (literally), I put away my black and white film and headed out to purchase the best color film and equipment I could find. Kodachrome and Fujichrome became my new “weapons of choice” and there was an immediate and noticeable difference in the quality and emotion of my photos. My professor’s noticed, my classmates noticed, my friends and family noticed, and I was an inspired photographer once again. I could see in color!

by Larry VanHoose

The more color, the more vivid, the better as far as I was concerned. I could not get enough of it. My photographs began to be noticed outside of the university and ultimately led to a studio spot in one of the most respected photography studios in Arizona. All because of a bit of advice and a change in medium. With that advice I learned to embrace my unique way of seeing the world and did my best to capture it for others to enjoy. And what was my favorite photographic subject –time after time? Fall foliage in the mountains of Arizona and the western United States of course!

Fall is still my favorite season. To this day I haven’t stopped taking hundreds of fall photos every year, although most are never seen by anyone but me. I love the color, the light, and the texture of the season. There’s something magical about the explosion of reds, yellows, and oranges almost abstractedly mixed in with a dash of evergreen against a background of the royal blue sky. I can’t get enough of it, and honestly, living on the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains is the perfect place to get that vivid color fix. I even named my design and photography company Vivid Graphics because it’s just what I excel at. I no longer apologize because I see the world in vivid, living color, whether up close or from far away in a sweeping, colorful landscape.

This fall, I hope you can enjoy the colors of the season with me. After all, while I love the work of Mr. Adams and other b&w zone system photographers like him, to me there’s nothing that compares to the brilliant colors splashed about throughout all of creation – by the Creator himself. I can almost see the Master’s hand as he dabs a little red here, a brush-full touch of gold there, and a dash of silver highlights along the edges. I’m grateful for all the colors God gives us to enjoy for when I look at them, I can’t help but feel his warm and loving touch upon my heart as he seems to say, “Fall is not the end, it’s just a season of change and the promise of new life.” And that picture, my friends, is in living color!

Ecclesiastes 3:1, 11 (NIV)

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.

THE BARN

The flagship of Laurel Oak is The Barn, a rustic, Western-style home. The spacious Barn features three bedrooms and five baths. Scenic porch views and fire pit enhance your enchanted experience at the Barn.

THE FARMHOUSE

The cozy and intimate Farmhouse is a classic mid-twentieth century home with three bedrooms and one bath. Come sit on the front porch or relax by the outdoor fire pit as part of the total Farmhouse experience.

THE CABIN

The Cabin's cedar porches and massive beams offer a once in a lifetime rustic cabin experience. Inside is a loft, two bedrooms and one bath featuring a soaker tub with shower.

by Joanna Radford

Planning Fun and Exciting Day and Weekend Trips

October is the perfect time to plan a day or weekend trip. The weather is cool and perfect for strolls. The views are spectacular with vibrant colors of changing leaves. The challenge may be where to find events and activities nearby.

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) developed a “Visit NC Farms” phone app. The app connects visitors and tourists to farms, wineries, farmers markets, and local restaurants with foods and activities that may interest them, all in their own backyard. While the app is a statewide program of NCDA&CS, the administration of the app is handled locally within each participating county. Often the administrators are North Carolina Cooperative Extension staff members. And, in many counties, like Surry County, the free app is supported largely by Farm Bureau.

NCDA&CS launched the app with a few pilot communities across the state in 2018. It has been praised by members of those pilot communities, like Brenda Blake of Blake Farms in Wilkes County. Brenda said, “The app is a great tool for connecting nonfarm people to farmers, and letting people know where their food comes from.” She has also said, “There are great features within the app to let people know about special events on farms, like our Fall Fling, where we were able to send a push notification to everyone who had the app about the event, it made a difference in the attendance, we had a huge crowd!” She went on to say, “As more communities become active, and more farmers become members, I hope that the general public’s interest in the app and NC farms grows.”

And grow is what this app has done since these pilot programs. There are now approximately 76 counties in North Carolina participating in the Visit NC Farms app. Surry County connected with the app at the beginning of this year and has had positive feedback from participating assets (farms, agri-businesses, and farmer’s markets).

The app has an upfront community membership fee of $5,500 and then an annual $3,600 maintenance fee for all member communities. Surry County is a part of the Foothills Region along with Alexander, Alleghany, Caldwell, Catawba, Iredell, and Wilkes counties. With the support of the Surry County Farm Bureau, Surry County was able to fund this app for farms and local businesses. Each farm and business member has an annual $50 membership to help cover the annual maintenance fee associated with the app. Anyone interested in joining the app can follow the link https://go.ncsu.edu/visitncfarmssurrycounty/ and provide information that they would like shared on the app.

Once the membership fee is paid, the asset will go “live” on the app for all to view.

This is a great opportunity for farms to advertise their products, services, and venues as it is tailormade for each participating Surry County farm, vineyard, winery, wedding venue, etc. There are push notifications sent through the app to cell phones that sign up for the app. The notifications announce upcoming events such as live musical performances, women’s conferences, special dinners, wedding showcases, agritourism, and more. There is something for everyone.

The app captures all aspects of grown, raised, caught, and made and has eight different sections which include Farms & Fisheries, Pick Your Own, Farmers Markets, Local Food & Drink, Shop Local, Farm Stays & Lodging, Tours & Trails, and Special Events. While the app is targeted to getting folks to farms, there are many other travel interests within the app as well. Download the free “Visit NC Farms” from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. Try the app and see what is going on in Surry County and then venture to other counties on the app as well. What a great way to help strengthen our local family farms and our rural communities.

home, farm,

by Sarah Southard, DVM

CWD Chronic Wasting Disease

Fall – a season that brings so many different traditions and loves back to the schedule. Football season for some. Everything pumpkin for others. Beautiful colors for “leaf peeping.” Sweater weather, corn mazes, chicken stews…the list could go on.

Folks who are like two of my neighbors finally realize the reward for all of their labors throughout the rest of the year as hunting season for white-tailed deer arrives. They live and work to hunt. This year, considerations will be quite a bit different for deer hunters in our area. Chronic Wasting Disease has arrived and threatens to decimate the wild cervid population. What is it and why all the fuss?

Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is classified as a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE.) TSEs are caused by prions–misfolded proteins in the brain. Prions accumulate in brain cells causing them to rupture. This causes the brain tissue to have a spongy appearance microscopically (hence “spongiform” in the name) and causes affected animals to have progressively worsening neurological signs clinically. CWD affects various cervids including white-tailed and mule deer, moose, elk, and reindeer. Other TSEs include bovine spongiform encephalopathy (commonly known as mad cow disease) in cattle, scrapie in sheep and goats, and Variant CreutzfeldtJakob Disease in humans. These diseases are not treatable and are not preventable by vaccination. They are always fatal.

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) has been performing CWD surveillance testing of deer since 1999. The first positive diagnosis was made in March 2022 in a hunter-harvested deer from Yadkin County. As a result, NCWRC has implemented various protocols to further assess the prevalence of CWD in North Carolina and perhaps most importantly to help prevent its establishment and spread within the state’s deer population.

In the state’s designated primary surveillance area, CWD testing is mandatory for all deer harvested during the entirety of the state’s black powder and gun seasons for white-tailed deer (November 5, 2022 – January 2, 2023.) Parts of Yadkin and Surry Counties are included in the primary surveillance area at the time of writing this article.

In the secondary surveillance area (counties surrounding Yadkin and Surry), testing is required for all deer harvested during black powder season and from opening day through the second Sunday of gun season (November 5, 2022 – November 27, 2022.) Testing is voluntary, but strongly encouraged during all other times.

There are also restrictions on the transportation of carcasses from the primary and secondary surveillance areas within NC, as well as restrictions on the importation of deer parts from other states. Because prions cannot be destroyed by disinfectants, freezing, or desiccation and because they can survive and remain infective for years (possibly decades) in the environment, it is imperative that we limit the spread of CWD by following the NCWRC transportation regulations and by practicing safe handling and disposal procedures when harvesting deer. It is important to note that apparently healthy deer may be infected and able to spread CWD without showing any clinical signs of sickness.

The non-hunting public can be of assistance as well. If you observe a sick or dead deer, leave the animal where you found it and contact the Wildlife Management District Biologist for our area (336-830-9794 ) or the NC Wildlife Helpline (1-866-318-2401).

For further information and the most current NCWRC regulations, including any updates to the surveillance areas map, visit the NC CWD information page at NCWildlife.org/CWD/

Let us do the dirty and dangerous work of cleaning out those clogged gutters. Better yet – we can install new gutter guards and put that ladder away for good!

336-789-2495

out & about

by Martha Bassett

Hello good people! This month I’ll be wrapping up Season 5 of the Martha Bassett Show, and what a season it’s been. By October 20, we will have presented 19 shows this year, up from 12 shows in 2021. Each show presented three artists or bands, plus my house band. Touring artists began touring again this year. They came to us from all over the US, and one even came from England. They represented folk, Americana, bluegrass, old-time, poetry, storytelling, klezmer, rockabilly, pop, RnB, classical, jazz, bossa nova, and even opera. Some were singer-songwriters, others were instrumentalists. They ranged in age from 10 to 88. They came from all kinds of backgrounds with fascinating stories. Their generosity with their artistic abilities made my life richer, and I hope yours too.

We also added two new radio partners to our list of syndications. First is 90.7 FM WEHC out of Emory & Henry College in Emory, VA, the Voice of Southwest Virginia. Also, 103.7 FM WPVM, the Voice of Asheville is now airing the Martha Bassett Show on Sunday nights at 9 p.m. In fact, it’s my main goal to increase our presence on the radio throughout North Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, and beyond within the next year, spreading the gospel of the uniquely

powerful music of our region. But I’m preaching to the choir!

The final two shows of 2022 are this month, so if you haven’t made it out to a live show yet, this is your last chance before next year. On October 6, Winston-Salem native/Brooklynbased Becca Stevens will bring her talent as a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist as she shares music from her latest project, WONDERBLOOM, which features David Crosby, Snarky Puppy bandleader Michael League, guitarist Cory Wong, and many others. Also gracing the stage will be singersongwriter Jeff Black, who was voted by Boston’s WUMB listeners as one of the top 100 most important folk artists of the past 25 years. And finally, our hometown star, Mr. Joe Thrift, will bring a rip-roaring old-time band featuring Riley Baugus on guitar, bassist Alex Scala, and banjoist Mark Olitsky.

Our final show on October 20 includes Alice Howe & Freebo. A true icon of folk, rock, and blues, Freebo has recorded and toured with the likes of Bonnie Raitt, CSN, Maria Muldaur, John Mayall, Ringo Starr, Dr. John, Neil Young, and many more. He has teamed up with a rising star of modern folk, Alice Howe, who released her critically acclaimed debut album last May. Then there is Terri Binion who is simply one of the finest songwriters I’ve ever encountered. Terri was born in North Carolina but, as a military kid, moved all over. Music has been the constant of her life. And finally, DaShawn Hickman Presents Sacred Steel will return to our stage to cap off Season 5. DaShawn lives in Mt. Airy and is a regular member of our house band. Since the beginning of 2022, he has released a debut album with guitarist Charlie Hunter that has taken him on tour to the West Coast and garnered articles in the New York Times and Vintage Guitar Magazine. We’re so proud of him! Come and see why.

And if you can’t make it out to see us live, enjoy the show from the comfort of your couch by tuning in to the livestream on the Martha Bassett Show YouTube or Facebook pages. Enjoy your October!

Dr. Richard Herber joins Northern Family Medicine

Richard Herber, MD, has joined the medical staff of Northern Regional Hospital to serve as a Family Medicine physician for outpatients at Northern Family Medicine. Dr. Herber has more than 30 years of clinical practice experience in general adult medicine and pediatric medicine, as well as experience in occupational medicine and urgent care practice in Charleston, South Carolina, and more recently in areas in and around Winston-Salem and Kernersville, NC.

A board-certified Family Medicine specialist, Dr. Herber will be responsible for diagnosing and treating a wide range of medical conditions, as well as referring patients to specialists, as needed. Dr. Herber is excited about joining Northern Family Medicine, a clinic of Northern Regional Hospital.

“I am excited to have Dr. Herber join the Northern Family Medicine team!” said Dr. Danal Snyder, MD, Medical Director of Northern Family Medicine. “His experience, insight, and enthusiasm toward patient care make him an excellent fit for our busy practice. Welcome, Dr. Herber.”

Dr. Herber’s healthcare journey started at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital (now Atrium) Family practice residency. “I started out in local emergency room work in Davie Community Hospital, followed by urgent care work at Romedical Urgent care in Salisbury, NC as well PrimeCare in Winston-Salem, NC. I began my Family Medicine career at Kernersville Family Medicine with Novant Health in 1994 and continued at Lewisville Family Medicine in 2001. I then started my own Family Medicine practice, Old Town Family Medicine, in 2004 which lasted 7 years. My family and I moved to Charleston, SC and I worked in urgent care again at Doctor’s Care and Concentra Health

for about a year before joining Medical University of South Carolina Family Medicine West Ashely campus in 2013. My family and I returned to the Triad in 2016 at which time I joined Wake Forest Baptist Health (now Atrium Health).

Drawn to the Pilot Mountain area after his oldest daughter moved to the Westfield area, Dr. Herber and his wife now have farmland there. “I chose to continue practicing with Northern Family Medicine due to the uniqueness of the history Northern Regional Hospital (I like the fact that it independently owned/ operated), the personable staff, and management team, as well as the practice model of Northern Family Medicine. It seems to offer patients a more personal, family focused environment. I am looking forward to being a part of that experience,” said Dr. Herber.

When not treating his patients, Dr. Herber might be found listening to and playing various genres of music including classic rock, folk, bluegrass, and Indie music. He plays guitar, piano, some bass guitar, and a little mandolin. He also enjoys various sports, including softball, tennis, golf, and swimming, and plays basketball with his grandson.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Herber, please call Northern Family Medicine at (336) 786-4133; for more information about Northern Family Medicine, visit us online at wearenorthern.org/hospital-services/family-medicine/

(336) 786-4133

280 North Pointe Boulevard, Mount Airy, NC 27030

This

NC.

by Sheri Wren Haymore

Fall Into Art!

WENDY JANE CREATIONS

Time and again, I am impressed by the many ways artists express their creativity. Take quilting, for example. Personally, I do well to sew on a button. Wendy Carriker of Wendy Jane Creations in Mt. Airy, on the other hand, turns out beautiful, unique quilted pieces, seemingly with ease.

Wendy told me that she got her start in the late 1970s in Burlington, NC, stitching for the needlework industry. At the same time, she co-owned a cross-stitch shop, offering retail and wholesale supplies. In 1984, when she moved to Mt. Airy with her four-year-old daughter and a husband whose work took him on the road, she reached out to cross-stitch designers and expanded into the design end of that business.

Eventually, Wendy joined the Surry County Handcrafters’ Guild, showing her work at their craft show twice a year at the Armory. For the past twenty years, she has participated in the Autumn Leaves Festival downtown. When I commented that I knew from experience what hard work that is, Wendy laughed and said her friend comes down from Michigan to help, and they peoplewatch while she sells her wares. Again, she makes the very thing that gives me anxiety sound so easy!

Back in the day, Wendy smocked dresses for little girls. And, she told me, if you see a Mt. Airy Bears appliqued flag round town, it’s most likely her work. An embroidery machine helped her expand into aprons, towels, and “Mug Rugs,” cleverly designed, embroidered coasters for your beverages.

The pandemic pushed her to purchase a longarm quilting machine, and this is where Wendy’s work becomes truly original art. She found a company in Durham with the capability to reproduce a photo or a painting onto fabric. Wendy already had access to quilt blocks stamped with artwork of U.S. states, and she showed me a gorgeous wall hanging featuring the state of North Carolina. But there were no quilt squares available of local mountain scenes.

The fire on Pilot Mountain was the impetus for Wendy to move forward with an idea that had been brewing for a while. From her own photographs of Pilot Mountain, as well as a painting of the mountain by a Winston-Salem artist, quilt blocks were reproduced that Wendy now turns into quilted pillows and wall hangings. These are truly oneof-a-kind works of art that I am very sure will be a hit at the Autumn Leaves Festival, especially the pieces featuring fall colors. And I can’t wait to see where this original idea takes her work next.

Having seen her work in person, I can attest that Wendy’s pieces are exquisitely detailed. Even her lively Halloween lap quilt boasts blocks quilted in a spider-web design.

Wendy told me that she puts a great deal of thought into each pillow and wall hanging. She finds the work therapeutic and says that she can solve the world’s problems working at the sewing machine far into the night. When she needs a sounding board, she calls on her daughter and her Michigan friend, who both often have fresh ideas for ways to put together fabrics and colors, keeping her own creative juices flowing.

If Wendy Carriker’s name sounds familiar, she has been on the Mt. Airy City Schools Board of Education since 1996 and serves as the National First VP for the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. Look for Wendy at her booth at the Autumn Leaves Festival this month!

ARTWORK BY BONNIE

Having passion for their calling is something I often hear from the artists who tell me their stories. Bonnie Marion Hawks, who creates under the name Artwork by Bonnie, says she could sit in her sunroom and paint for hours, until her achy back protests.

During her forty-year career in banking, Bonnie longed to pursue her art but didn’t feel she could invest the time or money. After retiring as VP of Business Banking for PNC in 2018, she knew the time was right to go for it.

Wendy Carriker

Bonnie Marion Hawks

N.C. Department of Insurance

Mike Causey, Commissioner 855-408-1212 (toll free) • www.ncdoi.com

OCTOBER IS

NATIONAL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States, next to skin cancer.

Some women are at higher risk for breast cancer than others because of their personal or family medical history or because of certain changes in their genes. Getting regular mammograms may lower the risk of dying from breast cancer.

If you or someone you love is on Medicare, take advantage of Medicarecovered preventive services, including mammograms.

Medicare covers a number of preventive services to help keep people with Medicare healthy.

Ask your SHIIP counselor for more information.

with Rynn Hennings www.thehouseofelynryn.com

As the days begin to shorten and the nights become crisp, I anticipate the start of the citrus season. The slim supply of summer oranges will be replaced with plump juicy oranges in several varieties, which is the perfect time to make orange chicken. It has a tangy sweet-and-savory flavor with just enough spice to suit most palates. If you would like a hotter version, you can add extra red pepper flakes to the sauce. As for the best oranges to use, just shop for the best quality oranges you can find. I have even used tangerines for this recipe, and it was delicious! This dish will have the best flavor from fresh oranges instead of bottled orange juice, and you will also need fresh oranges for zesting. The chicken has a crunchy coating from cornstarch instead of flour which means it can be made gluten-free if needed. I hope you enjoy this recipe because it is one of my favorite fall dishes!

ORANGE CHICKEN

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients for Chicken

• 1/3 cup cooking oil

• 1 cup cornstarch

•

•

•

Ingredients for Orange Sauce

• 1/3 cup chicken stock

• 1 cup fresh-squeezed orange juice

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (use gluten-free tamari sauce for glutenfree dish)

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (use ½ cup for a sweeter dish)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 1 ½ teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger paste (see note below)

• 2 tablespoons orange zest (about 2 oranges)

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 ½ -2 pounds chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 large eggs, beaten

Directions for Chicken

1. Place the cornstarch, black pepper, and cayenne into a gallon-size resealable bag and shake the bag to mix the contents.

2. Add the cut-up chicken to a medium-sized bowl. Beat the eggs and pour them over the chicken. Stir to coat the chicken with egg. Add the coated chicken to the cornstarch mixture in the bag. (It is best to use a fork or slotted spoon to let the egg drip off the chicken before adding it to the cornstarch.) Shake the bag each time after adding several pieces of chicken. Coat the chicken with cornstarch, adding more cornstarch if needed.

3. Pour the oil into a large skillet and heat on medium. When the oil is hot, add the coated chicken. (Be careful not to crowd the pan.) Brown the chicken on both sides until the internal temperature is 165 degrees F. Place the chicken on a platter covered in paper towels to drain it.

4. Fry all the chicken, adding more oil if needed.

Directions for Orange Sauce

1. Add the stock, orange juice, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes to a large measuring cup. Stir to mix. Set aside.

2. Add a little cooking oil to a clean skillet. Add the garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant.

3. Stir the orange juice mixture and then pour it into the

skillet. Cook until thickened, stirring often. Add the cooked chicken and stir to coat the pieces with sauce. Stir for a minute to reheat the chicken. Remove from the heat and stir in the orange zest. Garnish with sliced green onions. Serve with rice.

Savory Tips

Use gluten-free tamari sauce instead of soy sauce to make this a gluten-free dish. Tamari sauce is found with soy sauce at the grocery store.

I recommend using Gourmet Garden Ginger Paste in a tube. It is found in the produce section at grocery stores. You can also use minced ginger in a jar.

To reheat leftovers, place the chicken into a skillet and cook over medium heat. Stir until heated. This dish does not reheat well in the microwave.

Vary the recipe by adding 1-2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds to the finished dish.

For much more additional information, photos, and even more recipes, go to Houseofelynryn.com

simply delicious

MEDICARE Can Be Scary!

October brings out ghosts and goblins for Halloween decorations, but those aren’t the only scary things this time of year. Open enrollment for Medicare prescription drug plans and Medicare Advantage Plans is frightening for many individuals as they determine which plan may work best to meet their needs.

Each fall between October 15 and December 7, Medicare beneficiaries have the opportunity to compare and evaluate their current plans and make necessary changes for better coverage and lower costs. Medicare plans and prices change from year to year. It is important for Medicare beneficiaries to take advantage of the Open Enrollment Period to save money, improve your coverage or both. The Open Enrollment Period runs for eight weeks to give you enough time to review and make changes to your Medicare coverage by December 7, 2022, so your new coverage will begin without interruption on January 1, 2023.

Don’t let the choices scare you. Contact your local SHIIP counselors for help before you decide. You may be able to receive more affordable and enhanced Medicare health and/ or drug plan options in your area. For example, even if you are satisfied with your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, there may be another plan in your area that covers your health care and/or drugs at a better price.

SHIIP is a division of the North Carolina Department of Insurance and offers free, unbiased information about Medicare, Medicare prescription drug coverage, and Medicare Advantage Plans. In Surry County the SHIIP coordinating site is the Surry County Center of NC Cooperative Extension. To make an appointment to talk to a trained SHIIP counselor, call 336.401.8025.

For a fun, not too scary Halloween treat, try Ghost Meringues. This recipe, made by Aaron Burdick, was a blue-ribbon winner at the 2022 Alleghany County Fair.

GHOST MERINGUE CANDY

Ingredients

• 4 large egg whites, room temperature

• ½ teaspoon cream of tarter

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/8 cup regular size semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1/8 cup mini size semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Separate egg whites from yolks. Bring whites to room temperature for 1 hour.

2. Preheat oven to 225 degrees F.

3. Line baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone liner.

4. In a bowl, add egg whites and cream of tartar. Beat with a mixer on medium speed until frothy.

5. Gradually add sugar 1 teaspoon at a time and beat on medium speed for 30 seconds after each addition until all sugar is added and dissolved. Soft peaks should form in 5 minutes. If meringue feels gritty between your fingers, beat another minute.

6. Mix in vanilla.

7. Spoon meringue by tablespoons onto parchment paper, forming ghosts by twirling the tops of dollops into peaks.

8. Lightly press 2 mini chocolate chips, point side down, into the meringue for the ghost’s eyes and one regular chocolate chip point side down, for the ghost’s open mouth.

9. Bake in preheated oven for 1 hour until dry. Turn off oven, do not open door and allow the candies to dry in the oven for 2 hours.

10. Store in an airtight container. Ghosts will keep at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Yvonne Burdick’s Oatmeal Trash Cookies also earned a blue ribbon at the 2022 Alleghany County Agricultural Fair.

Here is her recipe:

OATMEAL TRASH COOKIES

Makes approximately 2 dozen cookies

1 ¼ cup butter, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

¾ cup light brown sugar, packed

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 ½ cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking soda

3 cups old fashioned oats

½ cup pretzels, crushed

½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

½ cup dried cranberries

½ cup walnuts, chopped

½ cup flaked coconut

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Line cookie sheet with parchment paper or silicone liner.

3. Combine butter, sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla in a mixing bowl. Mix until fluffy.

4. In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to butter mixture, folding together.

5. Stir in all other ingredients. Mix until combined.

6. Drop by tablespoon, 2 inches apart onto parchment lined cookie sheet.

7. Bake for 10-12 minutes.

8. Cool for 2 minutes on cookie sheet before placing on cooling rack.

Monday

area calendars & info

MOUNT AIRY EVENTS

For more information on Mount Airy, visit www.yadkinvalleync.com/mount-airy

FRIDAYS IN OCTOBER: MOUNT AIRY FARMERS MARKET 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Located at 111 South Main Street, Mt. Airy. Note: Ending October 28, 2022

SATURDAYS IN OCTOBER: WPAQ MERRY-GO-ROUND at the Historic Earle Theatre, 142 N Main St, Mt Airy. 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM; Admission $8 (includes admission to Andy Griffith Museum) or Surry Arts Council Annual Pass. Call 336.786.7998 for more details.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS IN OCTOBER: HISTORIC DOWNTOWN MOUNT AIRY GHOST TOURS, Friday and Saturday nights at 8 PM through November 12. Exciting 90 minute, lantern-lit walking tour through Mount Airy's streets and its historic past. 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. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera and umbrella, if needed. Tickets are $20 (tax included) and pre-paid reservations are required! Call the Museum at 336-786-4478 or purchase your ticket at www. hauntedmayberry.com.

OCTOBER 2022 CONCERTS AT THE BLACKMON AMPHITHEATRE 231 Spring St, Mt Airy, NC. All shows 7:30 PM unless otherwise noted:

RUNAWAY TRAIN, Oct. 14 (free!)

CRAIG SOUTHERN & PHOENIXX, Oct. 15 (free!)

OCTOBER 14–16: SHREK THE MUSICAL JR. A Surry Arts Players Community Theatre performance. Performances: Saturday, October 22 at 3:00 p.m.; Sunday, October 23 at 3:00 p.m.; Andy Griffith Playhouse, 218 Rockford Street, Mount Airy, NC. Reserved Seat Tickets: Adult $20 | Youth (12 & Under) $15. Once upon a time, in a far away swamp, there lived an ogre named Shrek... Based on the DreamWorks Animation Motion Picture and the Book by William Steig.

OCTOBER 22–23: AUTUMN LEAVES FESTIVAL Every year in October, Mayberry is the place to be for this fun festival in the heart of Mount Airy, NC. This nationally recognized event boasts a mix of music, arts & crafts, and delicious food -- something for everyone. You’ll find vendors with one-of-a-kind items and food you cannot get anywhere else, must-see attractions, and some of the best musicians around. The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce invites you, your friends, and family to the 56th Annual Autumn Leaves Festival. For more info, visit autumnleavesfestival.com/

area calendars & info

DOBSON EVENTS

For more information on Dobson, NC, visit yadkinvalleync.com/dobson

OCTOBER 1: MUSIC ON THE TERRACE AT SHELTON VINEYARDS WITH LUKE MEARS 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www.sheltonvineyards.com/ shelton_events

OCTOBER 2: MUSIC ON THE TERRACE AT SHELTON VINEYARDS WITH NICK BRANSCOME 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www.sheltonvineyards.com/ shelton_events

OCTOBER. 6: LEGACY CENTER ANNUAL FUNDRAISER DINNER PARTY AT THE BARN AT HERITAGE FARM Proceeds go to support LIFE as an alternative to abortions. Tickets can be purchased by contacting The Legacy Center of Mt. Airy.

OCTOBER 8: HARVEST FESTIVAL AT SHELTON VINEYARDS 10/8 Food trucks; Local Artisans; Music: Mood Swingz Trio 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Backstreet 2:00 PM –5:00 PM; Music on the Terrace 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM Miller & Pardue. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www. sheltonvineyards.com/shelton_events for more info.

OCTOBER. 8: HOMESCHOOL HARVEST DANCE AT THE BARN AT HERITAGE FARM For NC and VA homeschoolers ONLY. Tickets can be purchased on event brite.

OCTOBER 9: MUSIC ON THE TERRACE AT SHELTON VINEYARDS WITH EMMA MILLARD 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www.sheltonvineyards.com/shelton_events

OCTOBER 15: MUSIC ON THE TERRACE AT SHELTON VINEYARDS WITH DENNIS TOLBERT 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www.sheltonvineyards.com/shelton_events

OCTOBER 16: MUSIC ON THE TERRACE AT SHELTON VINEYARDS WITH MICHAEL CHANEY 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www.sheltonvineyards.com/shelton_events

OCTOBER 22: MUSIC ON THE TERRACE AT SHELTON VINEYARDS WITH TYLER MILLARD 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www.sheltonvineyards.com/shelton_events

OCTOBER 23: MUSIC ON THE TERRACE AT SHELTON VINEYARDS WITH MILLER & PARDUE 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www.sheltonvineyards.com/shelton_events

OCTOBER 28: MUSIC AT THE MARKET CONCERT SERIES LOCATED AT THE MOUNT AIRY FARMERS MARKET 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Located at 111 South Main Street, Mt. Airy. Come experience food, agriculture and bluegrass at the fifth Music at the Market event at the Dobson Farmer’s Market! Admission is free, and participants are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs. This month, Gap Civil will be playing the sweet sounds of Appalachian Mountain Music from 7 to 9 p.m. The food truck's Mermaids On the Go, and Station 1978 Firehouse Peanuts LLC are scheduled to be at this event as well!

OCTOBER 29: MUSIC ON THE TERRACE AT SHELTON VINEYARDS WITH STEVEN HALL 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www.sheltonvineyards.com/shelton_events

OCTOBER 30: MUSIC ON THE TERRACE AT SHELTON VINEYARDS WITH CASEY NOEL 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. 286 Cabernet Ln, Dobson. Visit www.sheltonvineyards.com/shelton_events

area calendars & info

ELKIN EVENTS For more area info, visit https://www.exploreelkin.com/events

ELKIN EVENTS

SATURDAYS IN OCT. : ELKIN FARMERS MARKET 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.. Located at 226 North Bridge Street, Elkin. Note: Ending October 29, 2022

OCTOBER WEDNESDAYS: OPEN MIC NIGHT AT REEVES THEATER Sign-up: 6:30 PM, Show: 7:00 PM.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR THE REEVES THEATER & CAFE 129 West Main Street, Elkin. Call (336) 258-8240 or visit https://www.reevestheater.com/ for more Information

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SATURDAY, OCT. 1: DUSTBOWL REVIVAL

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THURSDAY, OCT. 6: THE MARTHA BASSETT SHOW WITH GUESTS BECCA STEVENS / JEFF BLACK / JOE THRIFT

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THURSDAY, OCT. 13: COUNTRY / BLUES / BLUEGRASS JAM

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SATURDAY, OCT. 15: THE EMBERS FEATURING CRAIG WOOLARD

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THURSDAY, OCT. 20: THE MARTHA BASSETT SHOW WITH GUESTS ALICE HOWE & FREEBO / TERRI BINION / DASHAWN HICKMAN PRESENTS SACRED STEEL

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SATURDAY, OCT. 22: MAGNOLIA GREEN + THE DELUGE

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SATURDAY, OCT. 29: THE REEVES HOUSE BAND PLAYS LED ZEPPELIN (RESCHEDULED FROM ORIGINAL DATE OF 7/23)

OCTOBERT 14: FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY! 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Elkin Farmers Market, 226 N Bridge St Elkin. Grab your friends and come to Food Truck Fridays! Food trucks set up all day long. Live music starts after 5:00 pm, and there's always great music. Beer/wine are also available to purchase after 5:00 PM.

PILOT MOUNTAIN

PILOT MOUNTAIN EVENTS

Pilot Mountain Tourism, 124 West Main Street, Pilot Mountain For more area info, visit www.pilotmountainnc.org

OCT. 1: HOT NIGHTS, HOT CARS CRUISE-IN FEATURING

ART TIME PARTY BAND A family oriented events offering an open street cruise-in, live beach music, and plenty of food and beverage vendors. Cruise In begins officially at 3:00 PM, Live Beach Music 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM For more info: www.hotnightshotcars.com/

West Main Street

(336) 368-5955

Friday, 10:00

5 :00 Saturday, 10:00 – 4:00

OCT. 8: TRACTOR RIDE AND SHOW 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Tractor Ride $15.00 per person (12 yrs & older) to ride tractor or trailer. Ride begins at 10:00 AM. Tractor Show 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Food Trucks, Live Music, Hotdog Booth with Eldora Ruritan Club's World Famous Hotdogs Proceeds go to Eldora Ruritan Club Scholarship Program, Area Benevolent Funds & Sheriff Atkinson's GIVE A KID A CHRISTMAS

OCT. 22: LET'S GLOW CRAZY 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Our newest, most exciting event to date bringing you and your family a one of kind downtown glow party featuring a live DJ and laser show! This high energy, budget friendly event is sure to please kids of all ages! There will be food, games, & face painting. Glow in the Dark T-Shirts & Glow Swag available for purchase. Follow us on Facebook!

OCT. 29: MONSTER ON MAIN HALLOWEEN PARADE & TRUNK OR TREAT 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. This is a free, all ages, family-friendly event organized by the Downtown Events Committee. The focus is on handmade decor. No vehicles, no firetrucks, no ambulances. Wear a Halloween costume. The parade will run from Stephens St to Academy St. Participation is FREE & Open to EVERYONE!

area calendars & info

NEARBY

THURSDAYS IN OCT.: JAM N' OPEN MIC NIGHT (GALAX, VA): 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at the Briar Patch Market Place. Briar Patch Cafe at 117 S. Main Street.

OCT. (GALAX, VA): LIVE MUSIC ON FRIDAY & SATURDAYS AT CREEK BOTTOM BREWERY

All events are from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM unless otherwise noted. Creek Bottom Brewery, 307 N Meadow Street, Galax, VA. Every Friday & Saturday weather permitting –WildAxe Throwing – (5-10 PM)

Oct. 1: Oktoberfest w/ The Thrillbillyz (2-10 PM)

Oct. 5, 12, 19, 26: Jake Cox (7-9 PM)

Oct. 6: Will Easter (7-9 PM)

Oct. 7: James Brickey

Oct. 8: Phillip Caudle

Oct. 11: Creek Bottom Boys (7-9 PM)

Oct. 14: William Massey

Oct. 15: Fox & Vead

Oct. 21: Zach Brock & Good Intentions

Oct. 22: BlacKing Coal

Oct. 25: Creek Bottom Boys (7-9 PM)

Oct. 28: Vogan Thompson

Oct. 29: McKenzie Phipps Band

OCTOBER (HAMPTONVILLE NC): ALPHA & OMEGA CORN MAZE Corn maze, hayrides, steer roping, see saws, pedal tractors, pumpkin and corn cannon, horseshoes, general store, pumpkin retail area, Little & Big Tractor Pull, and much more! See ad with details on Page 8 of this month's Surry Living

OCT. 1 (SPARTA): MUSIC ON MAIN WITH KRUGER BROTHERS (Please see ad this page)

OCT. 8-9 (SPARTA): BLUE RIDGE OPRY this page)

OCT. 14-16 & 21-23 (SPARTA): NC MOUNTAIN ARTS ADVENTURE STUDIO TOUR

OCT. 22 (SPARTA): HILLBILLY COMEDY & VARIETY SHOW (Please see ad page 31)

OCT. 29 (SPARTA): AND THE BEAT GOES ON WITH KIERAN KANE & RAYNA GELLERT

OCT. 29 (GALAX): AUTUMN FOLK FESTIVAL

11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Please see ad page 23)

OCT. 29 (GALAX): LIGHT THE PORCH MATTHEWS LIVING FARM MUSEUM (

OCT. 31 (GALAX): GALAX DOWNTOWN HALLOWEEN 4:00 – 8:00 PM (See ad page 23)

n the MountainI s of Sparta, NC

Bands, Karaoke, and Open-mic Nights

Wednesday-Sunday in Local Restaurants

Music on Main with Kruger Brothers

Saturday, October 1

The Blue Ridge Opry

Saturday & Sunday, October 8-9

NC Mountain Arts Adventure Studio Tour

Oct. 14-16 & Oct. 21-23

Hillbilly Comedy & Variety Show Saturday, October 22

And The Beat Goes On with Kieran Kane and Rayna Gellert

Saturday, October 22

Mountain Thunder and White Lightning Cruise-In Saturday, October 29

Crouse House Pickers

Every Monday Night Alleghany Jubilee Tuesday and Saturday Nights

alleghanycountychamber.com

Welcomes

Richard R. Herber, MD

With over 30 years of experience in family and pediatric medicine.