Photographers: Sabrina Lee Baker, Natalie Snow & Sybil Slate
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Sabrina L. Baker
Sabrina hails from Tobaccoville, NC. Passion for arts led her to photography, where she carved her niche. She balances motherhood and her professional pursuits. At 30 years of age, she embraced Jiu-Jitsu, proving there is no age barrier to personal growth. Sabrina is known for her creativity and commitment, her ability to embrace change, and her perseverance. She writes to inspire others to face challenges head-on and to craft their own paths to success.
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.
Eddie lives in Copeland, NC. His column reflects his life experiences and stories that have been passed down to him. He is an encourager and considers himself a cheerleader for daily life. Eddie builds custom-crafted furniture in his small business, New Venture Woodworx. He also turns wooden bowls on a lathe and sells those at art and craft shows.
Contributors
Madalyn Edwards
Madalyn is from Mount Airy, NC, and is currently a junior at Appalachian State University. She is studying English with a concentration in professional writing and minoring in communication with a concentration in journalism. She writes for Surry Living and also works on the news desk for her university’s student news organization. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading, being outdoors, and spending time with her two dogs.
Sheri, now happily retired, finds nothing more enjoyable than time spent with her husband of fifty years, her amazing daughter, and sweet elderly pup. She authored two novels, A Higher Voice and A Deeper Cut (which also ran as a serial feature in Surry Living Magazine.) Her play, No Ordinary Wine, written in collaboration with a fine producer/director, was well received, and a second play, Improbable Grace, awaits discovery.
Blake grew up in and around the outskirts of Winston-Salem. He and his wife, Angie, currently live in the small town of East Bend. Blake graduated from Liberty University with a master’s degree in psychology and loves finding ways to help others. He also enjoys reading the Bible, painting, and spending time outdoors.
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 through 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 easier.
Derina is the executive editor and owner of Surry Living Magazine. She is also a professional horsewoman with a passion for connecting horses, nature, and people. Derina lives on her ranch in Westfield, NC, with her husband, Kevin,
son Kage, and daughter, Kaleah. She enjoys horse riding, traveling, and attending church at Asbury Evangelical Presbyterian.
Kevin is a Christian business owner who loves serving Mount Airy and its’ citizens. In addition to being the publisher and owner of Surry Living Magazine, he is also a physical therapist, Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, and published author. His passion is to help others find their way to health, success, and happiness throughout his areas of expertise. Kevin has assembled a first-rate team of therapists dedicated to keeping Surry County residents out of pain and in motion. He has an unstoppable, positive attitude that is contagious, and we hope you catch it through his column.
Blake Johnson
Sheri Wren Haymore
Derina Pyles
Eddie Lowe
Rynn Hennings
Kevin Pyles
Carmen Long
Joanna Radford
Joanna is the County Extension Director for NC Cooperative Extension in Surry County as well as the Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent with expertise in entomology, gardening, and pesticide education. Joanna 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. She lives on a farm with her husband and two teenage daughters.
Larry is the Executive Director for the Alleghany Chamber for Economic Development in the Blue Ridge Mountains of central North Carolina. Some of you may know him as the former co-owner of SLM. He has more than 30 years of experience as a writer, graphic designer, photographer, and book and magazine publisher. Larry and his wife, Trina, have four wonderful, grown children and live on a small farm just off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Grayson County, VA.
Contributors
Emma Rose
Emma is an editor, author and publisher with an eye for detail. After graduating with a degree in journalism, she has spent more than 15 years helping people and organizations tell their stories. She believes in the power of words to inspire, educate and unite people. In her free time, she writes fantasy novels and delivers presentations on the connections between writing and mental health.
Dr. Sarah Southard, DVM
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, and son, Malachi, currently live in Statesville with Oliver the house rabbit, a few cats, Blossom the donkey, and a flock of Katahdin hair sheep.
Larry VanHoose
SURRY COMMUNICATIONS Looking Toward the Future
by MADALYN EDWARDS
Leading-edge communications technology has come to Surry County thanks to Surry Communications, a local telephone membership cooperative that has operated in the area for 70 years. The founding members of Surry Communications were local farmers and business people who needed a reliable means of communication in rural areas. In 1951, they established a company, and by 1954 just under 200 members were able to access dial tone services.
In the early days, the service would not have looked out of place on episodes of The Andy Griffith Show. Customers who wanted to use telephone services first had to speak with the operator who would connect them to the person or business they were trying to call.
Today, the company provides internet, television, security and telephone services to more than 10,000 customers and 1,000 businesses in Surry, Stokes, and Davidson counties. The company of 66 employees is a telephone membership cooperative, meaning customers have stake in the company. Members are able to vote on their choice of directors who help implement strategic and innovation plans.
One of those plans includes a multi-million-dollar investment to replace older technology with fiber-optic cable. Surry Communications is the first company to supply fiber-optic transmission equipment in the area. The project was started in 2005 and is expected to be completed by 2025. Fibers smaller than the width of a human hair will provide the fastest internet that technology can deliver, reaching speeds ranging from 300 megabits per second up to one gigabyte per second.
“The sky’s the limit,” said Richie Parker, CEO of Surry Communications.
Expanded fiber-optic cable services won’t just improve internet speeds, they also make TV, security, and business solution
services more reliable. That’s especially important for businesses and people using internet to study or work from home.
Although fiber optic lines are notoriously expensive, Parker said Surry Communications is able to offer competitive rates compared to larger, national service providers through the use of smart business plans. The margin of profit may be lower compared to the larger, nationwide providers, but Parker believes that serving members more effectively ultimately benefits the business. “We try to put a personal touch on those connections that we have,” Parker said.
That personal touch extends beyond its services. Surry Communications also engages with the community and the Chamber of Commerce, participating in touch-a-truck events at local schools, sponsoring Little League teams, and co-sponsoring the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce Chamber Advocacy Conference. The co-op is committed to community-oriented events, with a special focus on local schools and career fairs.
“You’re going to see our name at all the local community schools,” Parker said.
Recently, Surry Communications helped sponsor a new eSports lab at Mount Airy High School.
Parker prides himself on the fact that Surry Communications is a local company that fosters personal connections. At the end of the day, he loves receiving calls or emails from customers telling him about their positive experiences with technicians and other Surry Communications employees. He said customers note how respectful and helpful the technicians who work for the small company are.
Surry Communications is headquartered in Dobson, North Carolina and can be reached at (336) 374-5021 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
BlueRidgeCalling
by LARRY VAN HOOSE
I came from the desert. Now, the desert in Arizona gets pretty dang hot in summer. Okay, it gets boiling – as in 115 degrees or more. As hot as it gets, that’s not why I left and moved to North Carolina. Honestly, for an outdoorsy type of guy who loves hiking, fishing, and hunting, Arizona is amazing. It is beautiful and almost shocking in its contrasts, showing off a diversity of scenery with a suddenness that sometimes startles the senses, from the flowering cacti after the desert storm to the giant ponderosa pine-covered mountains where mule deer, elk, and bear still roam without fences. It is a place of raw, elemental beauty, but outside of the cities, it can be wild, harsh, even unforgiving.
The Blue Ridge Mountains, on the other hand, inspire with their dripping, moss-covered walls, waterfalls that crash and swirl around almost every bend of boulder-strewn creeks and rivers, and with stunning, long-distance views that seem to defy one’s eye to catch a glimpse of the towns and cities that
shelter under their misty, blue-tinted veil. These mountains were my mother’s place of birth, and were home to many friends and family in my youth.
While in the southwest, I constantly compared what I saw to the lush forests and streams of the Blue Ridge, never quite getting them out of my mind’s eye. I was restless, always longing for what was beyond the next hill or bend in the road, always reminded of those years from my youth, memories of friends, relatives, and days gone by in the Carolinas and Tennessee, of summers spent hiking and climbing over boulder-strewn ridges, of walking down mud-bogged, red clay backroads, and of wading creeks searching for tadpoles and crawdads until the twilight called us home.
Partly it was the memories of years and experiences gone by that called me back to the Blue Ridge. Partly, it was the hope of a better, quieter, simpler life for my children than the hustle and bustle of millions of city dwellers trying to stay cool
and calm while they did their best to scratch out a living from the hot, harsh, overpopulated desert landscape. Mostly it was the Blue Ridge calling, calling me back.
I think the Blue Ridge never really stopped calling me back to itself, all through my wandering years of desert wasteland and noisy, frantic city life, they called out to me with a whispered promise that only a few places left on this planet can still deliver, an untamed wildness that could quickly reclaim any of its territory left free from human intervention for any length of time. To me, the mountains seem to only tolerate human intrusion, never wholly giving themselves up. Through untold millennia, they have existed in their wildness; older and once taller than the Rockies, they continue today to hold at bay man’s repeated attempts to control and manage the region.
Whether you spend a day, a week, or a year in the Blue Ridge, you’ll have the chance to form a connection to a people, heritage, and place that will develop your character like no
city on earth can. Up in the Blue Ridge you can get outside, fish along silver-blue, cool mountain streams, take quiet strolls along pine-needle paths, or bike along rolling meadows and farms dotted with golden hay bales and white-faced cattle.
The Blue Ridge is full of adventure, wilderness, charming small towns, growing cities, rolling farmland, mountain meadows, and roaring rivers. This spectacular place I now call home is offered up to visitors with a heartwarming recipe created and enhanced over time. It’s a place where life is seasoned by a dash of good old-fashioned southern hospitality, served up with an extra helping of deep-fried comfort food, held together with a long heritage of art, music, and generosity, and all washed down with a tall, ice-cold glass of the thirst-quenching Carolina sweet tea. I think you’ll find, like I did, that nothing could be finer than answering the call of the Blue Ridge.
Quote of the Month:
“Dad, a son’s first hero and a daughter’s first love.”
— Unkown
by SABRINA LEE BAKER
Sylvia Whitlock: Pioneering Leadership in Rotary International
Sylvia Whitlock’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and purpose. Born in the metropolis of New York City and educated through high school in the city of Kingston, Jamaica, Sylvia’s life story is one marked by academic excellence, unwavering commitment to community service, and groundbreaking leadership within Rotary International.
From an early age, Sylvia demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and a drive for excellence. Her educational pursuits took her across continents, earning her an International Baccalaureate from Cambridge University in England, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hunter College of the City University of New York, a Master of Arts in Education from California State Polytechnic, Pomona, and a Ph.D. in Education from Claremont Graduate University. Sylvia’s academic achievements were further enriched by her Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy from Azusa Pacific University, cementing her expertise in both education and mental health.
We are People of Action
In 1982, Sylvia embarked on a transformative journey when she joined the Rotary Club of Duarte. Little did she know that this decision would not only shape her own life but also make history within Rotary International. Over the years, Sylvia held every office at the club level, demonstrating her dedication and leadership acumen. Her commitment to Rotary’s values of service, integrity, and fellowship propelled her to become the first woman worldwide to serve as a Rotary International President.
During her tenure, Sylvia’s impact reverberated across borders and continents. She chaired significant committees including the Four-Way Test Speech Competition and the Ambassadorial Scholarship Committee, leaving an indelible mark on Rotary’s global programs. Her visionary leadership extended to district-level initiatives, where she served on committees ranging from finance to grant programs. Sylvia’s contributions did not go unnoticed, as she was honored with prestigious awards such as the Rotary Foundation District Service Award and the Sylvia Whitlock Award, a testament to her enduring legacy within the Rotary community.
Beyond her Rotary endeavors, Sylvia’s philanthropic spirit knew no bounds. From establishing an AIDS clinic in Jamaica to supporting orphanages in Mexico, Sylvia’s compassion transcended geographical boundaries. Her commitment to education manifested in her fundraising efforts, raising $90,000 for Education for Girls in India, thereby empowering future generations through the gift of knowledge.
Sylvia is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow Benefactor, Member of the Bequest Society, and Major Donor, embodying Rotary’s ethos of service above self. Her influence reaches across continents, as she has addressed global Rotary audiences and mentored incoming governors during her tenure as District Governor in 2012-2013.
In addition to her Rotary involvement, Sylvia is deeply engaged in her local community, serving on various boards and councils, and volunteering her time and expertise to causes close to her heart. Her dedication to serving others is a testament to her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.
As Sylvia reflects on her life’s journey, she finds immense fulfillment in her role as a mother and grandmother, cherishing
the joys of family and the memories of a life lived with purpose and passion. Her love for tennis, sports teams like the Stanford Cardinals Football Team and the Los Angeles Angels, and her passion for travel are testaments to her vibrant spirit and zest for life.
In Sylvia Whitlock, we find a beacon of hope, a trailblazer who defied conventions and shattered glass ceilings, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Her life’s work reminds us that with determination, compassion, and a steadfast belief in the power of service, we can truly make a difference in the world.
The Dance
by SHERI WREN HAYMORE
“The hardest thing about being a father,” my husband told me, “was letting go. Turning her loose, knowing she would make mistakes, but also knowing that she had to make her own mistakes in order to grow.”
I was asking my husband, Clyde, and our daughter, Carrie Wren, about their memories as father and daughter, and their thoughts on that relationship. The first thing Carrie told me: “I remember riding through Dobson in the truck with Dad, when I was around fifteen, and he started talking about dating. Dad said, ‘If anybody ever hurts you, I will squish them like a tin can.’ And I thought, Okay! Dad’s got me.”
Carrie went on to relate that her friend, “K,” has never had any relationship with her father and has expressed grief and yearning for the father she never had. Carrie’s friend has told her that she never experienced what Carrie has always known as a daughter, that “Someone has her back, no matter what.”
No doubt our readers fall into one of two camps: either you have lived under the umbrella of a father’s protection. Or your father was never a part of your life in any good way.
As I continued to quiz Clyde and Carrie, time spent together became a repeated theme. Here’s an example: When Carrie turned twelve, and the father-daughter relationship had grown some thorns, Clyde enrolled them in scuba diving class. Scuba became a bond between them all through her teenage years. For Clyde, it was really about spending time with his daughter. Carrie admitted, “I didn’t get that as a teenager; I just thought it was a cool thing to do. I would have valued that time together more if I had understood how precious it was.”
Both said that they now regret not having seized every opportunity to spend time together during those formative years. And yet they recall finding mutual activities. There were many hikes through the woods. Countless hours spent fishing.
They remember teaching each other dance steps in the living room and then twirling on the dance floor at Jubilee Junction in North Wilkesboro.
In truth, the father-child relationship can be something of a dance—two steps forward, one back. Most parents wonder whether they’re getting it right. And most, if they’re honest, feel some remorse at having stepped on their children’s toes as they stumbled through parenthood. As Clyde told Carrie, “We grew up together; we’ve both grown and evolved.”
Listen to the words of my friend, Janice Frye, that illustrate this point: “My dad talked to my sister and me about things he wanted to say a few hours before he died. We talked about precious memories and our future without him… Later that evening, after my sister left, Dad shared that he wanted to apologize to me as he wished he had a book from Dr. Spock on child rearing when I was born. As I was the oldest, he said my mom and he were unable to give me what I needed emotionally; he realized I needed more than they knew how to provide. He went on to say he was better equipped when my sister came along five years later. I told Dad this was the best gift he could give me as he was helping old wounds heal that the little girl within me had felt for many years.”
Even a father’s advice can be a form of protection.
“Measure twice; cut once.” “Make sure you’re saving for retirement.” “Take your foot off the gas and coast to the stop sign.” Some advice can seem annoying at the time, or even humorous; when we know it was given with good intentions, however, a fathers’ advice can be a treasure.
Let’s listen in on more of the last conversation between my friend Janice and her father. She told me, “We also talked about how I had been a widow for seventeen years and I knew his cancer was progressing, and how I would be sad if I ever remarried, and my husband would not get to know him and what a wonderful person he is. Dad said, ‘Well, I might know him already, but if not, I would like to give you some advice, not because I am wise, but because I am experienced.’ He went on to tell me if I did remarry it would be important to find someone who would listen to and talk to me, along with holding my hand. In my later years, he said, this would provide me with a happy life.”
Janice continued, “A few hours later, on April 14, 2013, my dad passed away. I am still comforted by these beautiful
words we exchanged on his final night. I did remarry nine years after Dad died. I married a former high school friend and cherish our conversations and moments we hold hands as my dad advised.”
My friend, Gay, said this about her father: “As a little girl, I would see my daddy talking while he was on the tractor working in the fields. As I grew to understand, I realized he was praying, which taught me to pray without ceasing. I was never afraid when Daddy was near; he always made me feel safe. If ever I got hurt, I wanted my daddy.”
Are you a father currently in the middle of the parenthood dance and feel as if you keep tripping over your own feet? You know, if all things are done out of respect for the person your child is, with a desire to connect with them, both now and in the future, you won’t blow it. Keep dancing. Show your child that you have their back, no matter what.
Are you a daughter or son feeling a bit teary-eyed, as I am right now, thinking about your own father, remembering all he taught you, reminiscing about good times together? Rest in gratitude for the memories, or if your father is still living, call him up and tell him, “Thank you!”
And what if you are one who yearns for the father you never had? That’s a tough one. All I have to offer is the belief, from my seventy years of experience, that we’re here for a purpose. And that purpose is to do whatever we can to make sure all is well with the people around us. Even if we never received that blessing from our own fathers. And do it, no matter what.
Clyde Haymore and his daughter, Carrie Wren, fishing on a dock.
From
Nap
Time Novelist to Published Author:
Audrey Lancho’s Journey with The Silver Lining
by SABRINA LEE BAKER
Audrey Lancho, a stay-at-home mom turned author, has recently inked a deal with Harpeth Road Press for her upcoming book, The Silver Lining, set to release in May 2025. This will be her second published novel, following the Victorian Romance Seven Days at Mannerley (Vinspire Publishing, 2024) in which Lancho weaves tales of intrigue, love, and the complexities of identity in 1870s England.
The inspiration for Seven Days at Mannerley stems from her love for the works of Jane Austen, with a modern twist. Set in the opulent backdrop of Mannerley estate, the story follows Mary Potts, a humble barmaid who assumes a false identity to attend the prestigious Mannerley ball. What ensues is a delightful blend of romance, secrets, and the art of keeping up appearances.
Lancho’s journey into the world of writing began during the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a stay-at-
home mom to her second son, she found solace and inspiration during moments of isolation. Utilizing precious nap times and early mornings, Lancho embarked on her literary endeavor, giving life to her characters and their captivating story.
However, the road to publication was not without its challenges. Lancho encountered setbacks and rejections, learning valuable lessons along the way. Through perseverance and the support of her family, she navigated the intricacies of querying agents and securing a publishing deal with Vinspire Publishing.
As a stay-at-home mom, Lancho’s experiences permeate the pages of her book. Domestic elements and relatable anecdotes add depth to her narrative, reflecting the joys and challenges of motherhood. Her advice to aspiring writers echoes her own journey—persevere, prioritize, and seize every opportunity to pursue your passion.
The impact of publishing two books extends beyond literary accomplishments for Lancho. It has become a source of fulfillment and purpose, offering a creative outlet amidst the routines of daily life. Moreover, the support and encouragement from her family have been invaluable, fueling her aspirations and celebrating her achievements.
Balancing motherhood with writing and promotional activities requires careful planning and dedication. Lancho manages her responsibilities by utilizing dedicated time slots for her literary pursuits while cherishing moments with her family. Her husband, Jonathan, and children have been pillars of strength throughout her journey, reinforcing the importance of love and support in the pursuit of dreams.
Reflecting on her journey, Lancho cherishes the connections forged through storytelling. As The Silver Lining finds its place on bookshelves and digital platforms, Lancho looks forward to engaging with readers and sharing her passion for literature.
Audrey Lancho’s journey from nap time novelist to published author exemplifies the transformative power of perseverance and creativity. With The Silver Lining, she invites readers into a world of romance and intrigue, where every page reveals a glimmer of hope andpossibility. As she continues to navigate the realms of motherhood and literature, Lancho’s story serves as a testament to the magic of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.
TAKE THE TIME
Attend the tea party, sit in the sandbox, make the mud pie and jump in the puddles while they are there. Time flies.”
Attend the Tea Party
JUST A THOUGHT
by EDDIE LOWE
In the waking hours of May 6th a delivery was made that would change a 23-year-old boy’s life forever. We all have thoughts of what parenthood will be like. We all grew up with “TV dads” that seemed to make it look so easy. But as I stepped into the delivery room, reality set in. I cried and prayed at the birth of my firstborn so much that the nurses giggled. Then suddenly they handed me this little human that I would automatically sacrifice everything to protect.
The first night at home was a disaster! I learned firsthand what colic was. Upon questioning the doctor, I found out that colic could last for months! How could a human under two feet tall cry so loud?
A two-door car was traded for one with four and soon enough a purple dinosaur was on TV pretty much all the time. There were first teeth and first steps, first words and first smiles. So many firsts.
Days and nights got mixed up and diapers piled up, meanwhile being a dad altered me. According to science, my frontal lobe would finish developing in two years so I had some growing to do also. I learned to not stress so much and that priorities change. My world had become bigger and I had a little person watching and listening, so I learned to be more careful in my words and actions.
The one thing I really wasn’t prepared for is how time flies! Suddenly you have this little helper with tons of questions and hugs and kisses sprinkled in.
Then, in October of 1999 another little human arrived, but this time I was a little more prepared. More firsts came again and as that child grew, so did I. For the readers yet to venture down the path of parenthood, I’ll offer a few things I wish I’d known.
Don’t stress so much about being a textbook parent. Nobody is good at it. We all do the best we can. My dad said people used to set the baby on a blanket at the end of a row of tobacco and check on it when they harvested to the end of the row! I’m not advocating that, but the point is, we survived with parents doing the best they knew how at the time.
Simple activities create the best memories. A day taken off work for a trip to the pool or a picnic or even a fort made from a bedsheet in the floor may live forever in memory.
Don’t forget to be a kid sometimes yourself and above all, be honest with them.
I’ve always thought that the biggest rewards handed out in heaven will be to moms and dads who were unknown but raised great people.
Blake’s Take
Dear Blake,
I am a Christian and I love going to church. I have noticed that some churches use the Bible in addition to other doctrine. Upon studying, I have noticed some of the outside doctrine seems to contradict the true biblical message of Christ. I didn’t think following Jesus was supposed to be complicated, but this has me a little confused. Am I crazy?
Thanks,
KEVIN PYLES, PT
- Mike Dear Mike,
I appreciate your question and thank you for having the courage to discuss such a delicate topic. Church service is important to Christians and none of us want to intentionally deviate from Christ’s message. Unfortunately, it happens and it’s up to us as individuals to find the truth.
According to the Center for the Study of Global Christianity, Christianity is divided into more than 200 denominations in the US alone. Worldwide, that number is estimated to be around 45,000. How can one religion be divided into so many separate groups?
I would guess centuries of Bible translation to be one of the reasons. According to Christianity.com, there are 450 different translations of the Bible into English. Some of the early versions were known to be rendered from previous translations rather than the original Hebrew Scriptures of the Old Testament and the Greek writings of the New Testament. When translations evolve from already translated material, inconsistencies can occur. With inconsistencies and
so many versions in one language, interpretations will vary, leading to church division. For this reason, Christians should do some homework to search for accurate Bible translations in their own language.
Although it’s hard for us to imagine, church division can also be the consequence of having dishonest leadership. The Bible warns us of false prophets and teachers. It tells us we are to recognize and withdraw ourselves from them (King James Version, Matt. 7:15; 1 Tim. 6:3-5). Without God’s word this would be impossible. As you point out in your inquiry, the Bible will reveal the truth. God speaks through his word which is why we must study to show ourselves approved unto him (KJV, 2 Tim. 2:15). This is especially important when false teachers exist.
Another significant reason for church division is disobedience. We tend to deny God by seeking after glorified experiences. History shows that man would rather worship idols, perform great ceremonies, or look for signs than obey God. In 2 Kings 5:1-14, Naaman was told by Elisha’s messenger to wash in
BLAKE JOHNSON
Jordan seven times to cleanse his leprosy (KJV ). When he heard this Naaman was wroth because he was told to conduct a simple act in an average river. Evidently, he was expecting some wondrous experience. However, God’s simple request to restore his flesh was perfect. After Naaman came out of Jordan the seventh time he was clean and had flesh like a little child. As Christians, we should learn to ignore our own expectations and trust in the simplicity of serving God (KJV, Prov. 3:5).
Regardless of church division and the reasons behind it, salvation is a personal obligation. Paul told the Philippians in Philippians 2:12, “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (KJV ). The Bible tells us we will all stand before the judgment seat of Christ and answer for the things we have done whether good or bad (KJV, 2 Cor. 5:10). No preacher, no Elder, and no Deacon will be able to stand in our place or answer for us. Therefore, we must examine ourselves and the church to corroborate the messages we receive are in line with God’s word.
If a church provides doctrine that contradicts the gospel, we have a responsibility to pursue the truth.
“Ask and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”
- Matthew 7:7 KJV
God will provide the answers if we conduct the research. As you said, following Jesus should not be complicated and his service is reasonable (KJV, Rom. 12:1). It should never conflict with his word.
Like you, I am a humble servant trying to follow Jesus to the best of my ability. I have enjoyed looking into this matter with you. I have no doubt if we all keep searching and studying, God will lead us in the paths of righteousness. Thank you again for your inquiry.
Sincerely, Blake
EmbracingtheFather’sExample:
Strength, Wisdom, and Guidance in Business and Personal Lives
A father’s role in our lives is one of strength, wisdom, and guidance. From providing support and protection to offering valuable life lessons, fathers have a profound impact on our development. We can draw inspiration from a father’s example to enhance our business and personal lives. By embracing the qualities of a father figure, we can cultivate resilience, leadership, and a sense of purpose.
STRENGTH AND RESILIENCE
Fathers are often seen as pillars of strength, demonstrating resilience in the face of challenges. In the business world, resilience is essential for success. By adopting a father’s strength, we can overcome obstacles, adapt to change, and bounce back from failures. This resilience enables us to navigate the ups and
downs of entrepreneurship, inspiring others with our unwavering determination.
In our personal lives, strength and resilience allow us to weather the storms that life throws our way. By channeling the example set by a father, we can find the inner strength to overcome personal hardships, support our loved ones, and emerge stronger from adversity.
LEADERSHIP AND GUIDANCE
Fathers often serve as role models, providing guidance and leadership. In the realm of business, effective leadership is crucial for steering teams toward success. By emulating a father’s guidance, we can inspire and motivate our employees, fostering a sense of purpose and direction. Through clear communication, mentor-
KEVIN PYLES, PT
ship, and leading by example, we can create a positive work environment conducive to growth and collaboration.
In our personal lives, leadership and guidance are equally important. By embodying the qualities of a father figure, we can guide our children, family, and friends toward making wise decisions, nurturing their potential, and supporting their dreams. This leadership fosters trust and respect, strengthening our relationships and creating a sense of unity.
BALANCE AND PRIORITIZATION
Fathers often excel at balancing multiple responsibilities and prioritizing what truly matters. In the business world, finding a healthy work-life balance is crucial for overall well-being and success. By observing a father’s example, we can learn to prioritize our time, energy, and resources effectively. This balance allows us to excel in our professional endeavors while nurturing our personal relationships and maintaining our physical and mental health.
In our personal lives, balance and prioritization enable us to be present for our loved ones, creating meaningful connections and cherished memories. By valuing quality time, setting boundaries, and making conscious choices, we can ensure that our personal lives are not overshadowed by our professional pursuits.
A father’s example offers us invaluable lessons that we can apply to both our business and personal lives. By embracing the qualities of strength, wisdom, guidance, leadership, balance, and prioritization, we can navigate the challenges that come our way with resilience, purpose, and success. Let us draw inspiration from the remarkable example set by fathers, incorporating their values into our daily lives and fostering growth, fulfillment, and meaningful connections in all aspects of our journey.
Kevin Pyles, Northern Rehab
HOW TO GRILL LIKE A PRO
by CARMEN LONG with Simply Delicious
Nothing says summer more than food cooked outside on a grill. Growing up, we had a neighbor who even baked pies in his grill. Talk about a mouth-watering aroma. Between the wonderful smell and the yummy taste, every grilled meal is a delectable treat. Follow these tips to make sure your grilled specialties are safe and delicious.
PRO GRILLING TIPS
1. MARINATE FOOD SAFELY
Marinating is an easy way to add great flavor to roasted or grilled meats and vegetables. Marinate food in the refrigerator. If the marinade is to be used as a sauce, save fresh marinade that has not touched raw meat in a separate container. Once used, the marinade may contain bacteria from the raw meat, so do not use it as a sauce or brush in onto the food late in the cooking process.
2. CLEAN IS KEY
Double-check that your equipment is clean and ready to use before you begin preparing food. Make sure to wash your hands frequently while preparing food, especially after handling raw meat.
3. IS IT DONE YET?
Use a food thermometer to ensure that food is cooked to a safe temperature. Color is not an accurate indicator. Burgers should be cooked to a 160-degree internal temperature. Poultry should be cooked to 165 degrees and whole pieces of beef or pork are safe when cooked to 145 degrees.
4. HOT OR COLD
Plan ahead. Make sure you have a way to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Not only will the foods taste better, but they will also be less of a risk for causing a food borne illness.
Try one of these easy marinade recipes for your next grilling opportunity.
GRILLING MARINADES
VEGETABLES
INGREDIENTS
• 4 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon thyme or tarragon
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl or sealable plastic bag.
2. Add vegetables and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Note: Makes enough for 3–4 cups of cut vegetables.
CHICKEN
INGREDIENTS
• 1⁄2 cup orange juice
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon oregano or thyme
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl or sealable plastic bag.
2. Add chicken and marinate in the refrigerator for 2-12 hours.
Note: Makes enough for 1 to 1 1⁄2 pounds of chicken.
BEEF
INGREDIENTS
• 4 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1–2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl or sealable plastic bag.
2. Add beef and marinate in the refrigerator for 2-24 hours.
Note: Makes enough for 1 to 1 1⁄2 pounds of beef.
PORK, TOFU, SALMON, OR TUNA
INGREDIENTS
• 1⁄2 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• Crushed red pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl or sealable plastic bag.
2. Add pork or tofu and marinate 1-12 hours for pork and tofu, 1530 min for fish in the refrigerator.
Note: Makes enough for 1 to 1 1⁄2 pounds of pork, fish or tofu.
Source: Cook Smart/Eat Smart
SWEET AND SPICY GRILLED CHEESE
by RYNN HENNINGS
The Sweet and Savory Life
The humble grilled cheese sandwich is a simple yet beloved food. There are many ways to give it a new flavor, such as changing bread from plain white to artisan bread. Try adding pepper jack cheese, pepper jelly, and jalapeños. The possibilities are endless.
A grilled cheese sandwich with jalapeno peppers, bacon, cheddar cheese, and pepper jelly is a decadent and hearty new take on an old favorite!
Use your favorite pepper jelly for these sandwiches. I like using one with pepper bits from Trader Joe’s. However, I also enjoy Red Pepper Jelly from Stonewall Kitchen. You can use a jelly either with or without pepper pieces because the sautéed jalapeno will add bits of pepper to this sandwich.
For bread, I use anything from brioche to an artisan. Dave’s Killer White Bread is great with this sandwich. If you use brioche, cook on low heat to let the cheese melt so the bread does not over-brown!
INGREDIENTS
• 2 slices cooked bacon
• ½ medium-sized jalapeno, chopped
• 2 slices thick sandwich bread
• 2 tablespoons pepper jelly
• 1 slice pepper jack cheese
• 1 slice cheddar cheese
• 2 teaspoons butter, melted
DIRECTIONS
1. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Cook the jalapeno in the bacon grease until wilted. Remove from the grease and drain on a paper towel.
3. Pour the grease into a heat-safe container and remove any leftover in the pan with a paper towel.
4. Spread the pepper jelly on one slice of the bread. Then, add a slice of pepper jack cheese and cheddar cheese. Add the cooked jalapeno, spreading it evenly over the cheese. Add two slices of bacon so that they cross each other. Add the other slice of bread on top.
5. Melt the butter and brush half of it on the outside of the sandwich. Heat the skillet and add the sandwich, buttered side down. Cook on medium-low so the cheese has time to melt.
6. Use a spatula to press the sandwich. Turn when browned and brush the rest of the butter on the top of the sandwich. Cook until each side is toasted.
SWEET AND SAVORY HINTS
• Leave off the bacon to make this a vegetarian sandwich because it tastes just as good.
• You can experiment with other peppers. I have used hatch chilies in place of the jalapeno peppers. And try hotter peppers if you have a high threshold for heat
For more recipes and entertaining and lifestyle hints, visit Rynn’s blog at thehouseofelynryn.com.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Protection by Vaccination
by SARAH SOUTHARD, DVM
Vaccinating livestock is one of the most cost-effective methods of protecting the investment producers have made in their breeding herds and flocks. It is also one of only a few ways to protect the future productivity of the animals. An appropriately planned and implemented vaccination program will add far more to a producer’s bottom line than it will ever deduct.
Respiratory disease is a major source of morbidity, mortality, and decreased production in cattle, sheep, and goats. Various viruses and bacteria can cause pneumonia, leading to short-term illness as well as permanent lung damage. Both the short-term and long-term effects of pneumonia result in costly production losses. Decreased weight gain, weight loss, poor reproductive performance, and poor milk production are some of the indirect costs of illness that add
to the direct monetary losses resulting from medication and labor costs required to treat sick animals.
Other major losses can come as a result of infections that cause abortions. Leptospirosis, chlamydiosis, and campylobacteriosis are just three of the many abortion-causing diseases that can affect livestock. When a production animal loses a pregnancy, the costs that must be accounted for include the lost fetus and its expected production as well as the lost production time for the dam, the additional time for her to conceive again, and any treatments necessary to get her healthy enough to carry a pregnancy to term in the future.
Other diseases with perhaps less obvious negative impacts on production include footrot and sore mouth, both potential problems for sheep and goats. The bacteria that
cause footrot result in destruction of the hoof. Animals that find it too painful to walk and graze will most certainly not gain as well and may lose weight. Sore mouth is a viral disease that causes painful sores on the muzzle of lambs and kids and can spread to the udder of nursing dams. Again, animals in pain do not gain or produce to their full potential.
Clostridial diseases are caused by various members of the clostridium group of bacteria. There are several, but the more common offenders include tetanus, blackleg, botulism, and overeating disease (enterotoxaemia). This class of diseases often results in the sudden death of infected animals with few to no clinical signs beforehand. Even when clinical signs are present, these diseases are difficult to treat.
Vaccines are available for many diseases to prevent illness entirely or to decrease the severity of disease in an infected animal. Many disease-causing organisms are ubiquitous in the environment, are carried by various species of wildlife, or are normal inhabitants of various body systems just waiting for the
right conditions to overgrow. Therefore, it isn’t a question of whether livestock will be exposed to such organisms, but rather a question of when.
A vaccinated animal is much more likely to be unfazed by an exposure than an unvaccinated one. In fact, in herds and flocks in which vaccination protocols are well-maintained, it may appear that vaccination is unnecessary because animals rarely if ever get sick. This is evidence that the vaccine program is doing exactly what it should: protecting the producer’s investment, production, and livelihood by defending animals from disease.
Consult your food animal veterinarian regarding an appropriate vaccination protocol for your farm. Regularly reevaluate your plans to ensure that they still meet the needs of your operation. And most importantly, properly implement the prescribed vaccination protocol. Administer the correct dose at the correct location and at the most appropriate time in the production cycle. Ensure that vaccines are stored properly before and during use to maintain their efficacy.
Hometown Heroes
Oh Deer!
Protecting Your Landscape From Damage by Deer
Deer are seen in large populations across Surry and surrounding counties. While they are beautiful for some people to watch, they are a nuisance to others. Deer can quickly outgrow a habitat. They can damage food crops and be detrimental to gardens. They are usually not compatible with humans and their needs.
The impact of deer on plants can be so severe that plants are killed. This can be expensive if plants must be replanted. In best-case scenarios, plants will need to be sheared. This incurs another unexpected cost. Many times, the quality is lost and never regained. Deer may browse on young trees, which may affect uniformity of the tree and even threaten survival.
Homeowners can take action to reduce the risk of deer damage to plants in their landscape. Although there are many options, some can be time intensive and pricey. Some options include applying deer repellents, restricting access with fencing, scare tactics, and landscaping with plants that deer prefer not to eat.
Make Your Yard Less Attractive to Deer
Deer repellents usually have a bitter or hot taste that deer do not prefer. They also tend to have a putrescent (decay or rotting) scent. It takes time to apply deer
by JOANNA RADFORD
repellents and repeat applications are usually necessary, especially after rain. For a list of deer repellents, contact your local extension agent.
Restricting access to an area by adding fencing may be the most effective solution. It may also be the most expensive. Depending on the size of the property, it may take a lot of time and fences may not be aesthetically pleasing. Although electric fencing may work, the more important feature is often height. The ideal fence should be higher than what the deer can jump, a minimum of seven feet.
A double fence may also be effective.
Since they have poor depth perception, deer may not try to jump this style of fence. Homeowners can also fence around individual plants or trees when they are young. Wire or plastic cylinders can be used to protect young trees. This will help prevent damage around the trunk caused by deer rubbing against the bark with their antlers.
Scare tactics such as loud noises at irregular intervals may be effective in the short-term. However, deer quickly habituate to noises that do not hurt them. Scare tactics are often not viable in residential areas as they are often considered
a nuisance to neighbors as well. A guard dog may help scare deer away but they are high maintenance and require daily attention, food, and water.
Landscaping with plants that are deer proof would be a great trick. Sadly, no plant is completely deer proof! Deer will eat to survive, especially during stressful times like drought. Plants that deer usually avoid may still be damaged if a deer is hungry enough. Deer will also eat almost anything in the spring. They do prefer tender vegetation that is soft to touch and high in water content. And boy do deer love flower buds! Plants that have been over-fertilized and over watered are lush and appeal to deer. In short, deer resistant plants are not necessarily deer proof.
Deer Resistant Plants
Consider selecting plants with characteristics that are undesirable to deer. Plants that deter deer are those with thorny or prickly leaves or stems. Deer do not like strong scented and pungent tasting plants, such as herbs. They also steer clear of poisonous plants or plants that produce thick latex-like sap. Plants with hairy leaves are also at the bottom of a deer’s list of preferred plants. Older, more mature trees withstand deer damage better than young ones. Tall trees and trees that hold branches high are better equipped for deer pressure.
Some options for trees and plants classified as “deer resistant” for our area are listed in the chart below. North Carolina State University has a helpful website to assist in selecting plants. You may find it at https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/.
Whatever option you choose to minimize deer damage in your landscape, remember to alternate tactics so the deer are always on alert. Good luck with avoiding deer damage!
Common Name
Scientific Name
1. River Birch Betula nigra
2. American Holly Ilex opaca
3. Crape Myrtle Lagerstroemia hybrids
4. Southern Magnolia Magnolia grandiflora
5. Japanese Flowering Cherry Prunus serrulata
Common Name
Scientific Name
1. Butterfly bush Buddleja davidii
2. Sweetshrub Calycanthus floridus
3. American Beautyberry Callicarpa americana
4. Clethra (Pepperbush) Clethra alnifolia
5. Fothergilla Fothergilla gardenii
6. Kerria Kerria japonica
7. Spring Flowering Spireas Spiraea cantoniensis, Spiraea nipponca, Spiraea x vahouttei
Common Name
Scientific Name
1. Star Jasmine Trachelospermum asiaticum
2. Creeping Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis, salvia rosmarinus
3. Mondo Grass Ophiopogon japonicus
4. Junipers Juniperus species
5. Carolina Jessamine Gelsemium sempervirens
6. Crossvine Bignonia capreolata
Deer Resistant Trees
Deer Resistant Deciduous Shrubs
Deer Resistant Vines and Groundcovers
Email:
Sabrina and Matt
SURRY SEEN
Navigating Life with a Horse, Faith, and Common Sense
by DERINA PYLES
“I’m not doing it. Not doing it, Hay-Woman. Don’t ask me again, my answer will be the same. I am not going to that kids’ camp this summer!”
“Ah, come on Traveler, please! You know it’s for a good cause. The kids there absolutely love
“Love me?” I could always tell when he was about to blow up because he would start pacing and snorting. Standing still was out of the question.
“Okay, okay, calm down.” I put my hand on his long furry neck. “Let’s start by taking a couple of cleansing, deep breaths. Breathe in for 6, hold, and out for a 10 count. Close your eyes, and think of those deep blue skies…”
“You hold your breath, and keep holding it,” he said sharply. That meditation stuff you’re learning isn’t going to work with me today Hay-Woman.”
Shocked, I raised my head, and we locked eyes. Then, simultaneously, we busted out laughing.
“I’m sorry for that,” he said, as we both regained our composure.
“Can we at least talk about it for a few minutes before you make a final decision?”
Traveler nodded his big grey head in agreement.
“The lady running the horse camp called and asked for you specifically. You’re practically a celebrity with them.” I was trying my best to pump up his ego so he would agree to go. His ears perked forward proudly at this statement.
Then, he let out a big sigh. “Do you know what it’s like there?” He asked, as if he were describing a maximum-security jail. “Children all day bouncing in the saddle, all over my back, pulling on my mouth with the reins, leading me here, leading me there, the endless circling, and don’t even get me started on the painting. I mean, what do I look like, a piece of canvas? Last year it took me a week to get all that paint out of my fur and off my rump.”
I giggled at the memory of him last year — paint everywhere you can possibly imagine — but quickly sobered up to avoid starting another outburst.
“I remember you getting brushed and rubbed most of the day, not to mention all the constant petting and scratching. I also remember how you helped many of those kids overcome fears, gave them confidence, and fostered a love for horsemanship they may not have had. Many of the kids went from being beginners to advanced riders because of you. That one little boy had never seen a horse before you, and by the end of the camp he was galloping around the ring. He sent you a Christmas card, remember?”
“I guess there were some good lessons that came out of it,” he relented. After thinking intently, he quoted, “Proverbs 22:6, Train up a child in the way he should go: And when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
“Yes! That’s right Traveler, the kids at that camp are like your children.”
“Well, what are you waiting for then Hay-Woman? Call her and tell her of course I will be happy to come and help her this year. Why wouldn’t I? Besides, I’m like a celebrity to everyone
“Calling her now.” My dear friend was one in a million.
MOUNT AIRY
Saturday, June 1, 2024 | 12:00 pm
Let’s Safari!
Andy Griffith Playhouse
218 Rockford St, Mt Airy, NC 27030
Saturday, June 1, 2024 | 3:00 pm
Disney’s Lion King Jr.
Andy Griffith Playhouse
218 Rockford St, Mt Airy, NC 27030
Saturday, June 1, 2024 | 7:30 pm
Chocolate Chip & Company*
Sunday, June 2, 2024 | 3:00 pm
Disney’s Lion King Jr.
Andy Griffith Playhouse
218 Rockford St, Mt Airy, NC 27030
Thursday, June 6, 2024 | 7:30 pm
The Tonez*
Every Fri. in June | 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Surry County Farmers Market
111 S Main St, Mount Airy, NC 27030
Friday, June 7, 2024 | 7:30 pm Envision*
Saturday, June 8, 2024 | 7:30 pm
Gary Lowder & Smokin’ Hot*
Friday, June 14, 2024 | 7:30 pm
The Entertainers*
Saturday, June 15, 2024 | 7:30 pm The Magnificents Band*
Sunday, June 16, 2024 | 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Mayberry Cool Cars & Rods Cruise-In
190 Virginia St, Mount Airy, NC 27030
Thursday, June 20, 2024 | 7:30 pm Band of Oz*
Friday, June 21, 2024 | 7:30 pm The Konnection*
Saturday, June 22, 2024 | 7:30 pm The Holiday Band*
Summer Concerts Series Location*
Thursday, June 27, 2024 | 7:30 pm The Main Event Band*
Friday, June 28, 2024 | 7:30 pm The Extraordinaires*
Saturday, June 29, 2024 | 7:30 pm Phatt City*
DOBSON
Blackmon Amphitheatre 231 Spring St, Mount Airy, NC 207030 28 29 Photo Contest
Every Tues. in June | 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Surry County Farmers Market 903 E Atkins St, Dobson, NC 27017
Saturday, June 8, 2024 | 10:00 am- 8:00 pm NC Ground Steak Festival Dobson Square Park
ELKIN
June 1-2 | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
5th annual North Carolina Trail Days 226 North Bridge Street Elkin, NC 28621
Every Sat. in June | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Elkin Farmers Market 101 W Market St, Elkin, NC 28621
Saturday, June 1, 2024 | 3:00 pm Hot Nights Hot Cars Cruise In 124 W Main St, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
Every Sat. in June | 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Pilot Mountain Farmer’s Market 210 West Marion Street, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
Saturday, June 8, 2024 | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Prehistoric Pilot Mountain 873 W 52 Bypass, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
Friday, June 21, 2024 | 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Pilot Mountain Pig Out: Food Truck Rodeo 124 W Main St, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
Surry County Beekeepers Association
Entry must include a 250-to-350-word essay explaining the photo and why you believe it relates to bees and pollination. To enter, go to https://surrycountybeekeepers.org/bee-contest
