Yadkin Valley Magazine March-April 2025 by Yadkin Valley Magazine

March-April 2025

Spring Home, Lawn & Garden Issue

Writers Road Show Authors Tour

The Humble Beginning of the Yadkin River

Outdoor Furniture to enjoy for every season of the year.

You’ve either heard about how good the food is or you’ve tasted it for yourself...

Mark your calendars now!

The Annual Amish Community Fish Fry is scheduled for the first Saturday in June– June 7, 2025

Anyone can provide advice. At Edward Jones, our goal is to provide advice and guidance tailored to your needs. That’s why we live and work in your community. When it comes to your financial needs and goals, we believe you deserve face-to-face attention.

You talk, we listen, and we get to know you.

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC For more information or to schedule a complimentary financial review, call or stop by today.

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Mount Airy

Paul J. Bunke, Sr., AAMS™, CFP® 124 W. Kapp Street, Suite C PO Box 407 Dobson, NC 27017 336-386-0846

paul.bunke@edwardjones.com

Audra Cox, ABFP ™ 715 S Main St, Suite B Dobson, NC 27017 336-569-7385 • 844-795-3462 audra.cox@edwardjones.com

Frank H. Beals 965 North Bridge Street Elkin, NC 28621 336-835-4411 frank.beals@edwardjones.com

Timothy Johnson

116 E. Market St.

Elkin, NC 28621

336-835-1124

timothy.johnson@edwardjones.com

Nathan Sturgill

116 E Market Street

Elkin, NC 28621

336-835-1124

nathan.sturgill@edwardjones.com

Aaron L. Misenheimer, CFP®, ChFC® 1530 NC Hwy 67, Suite A Jonesville, NC 28642

336-258-2821

aaron.misenheimer@edwardjones.com

Andi Draughn Schnuck 496 N. Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-789-1707 andi.schnuck@edwardjones.com

Dale Draughn, AAMS™ 140 Franklin Street Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-789-0136

dale.draughn@edwardjones.com

Logan Draughn

492 N. Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-789-3323

logan.draughn@edwardjones.com

Kody Easter, AAMS™, CRPC™, CFP® 304 East Independence Blvd Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-789-2079

kody.easter@edwardjones.com

Randy D. Joyce

136 W. Lebanon Street Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-789-6238

randy.joyce@edwardjones.com

Tammy H. Joyce, AAMS™ 136 W. Lebanon Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-789-6238 tammy.joyce@edwardjones.com

Tanner Joyce 752 S. Andy Griffith Parkway, Suite 400 Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-245-9112 tanner.joyce@edwardjones.com

Mike Russell

106-B South Depot Street, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041

336-368-2575

mike.t.russell@edwardjones.com

Tiffany L. Smith

106-B South Depot Stree Pilot Mountain, NC 27041

336-368-2575

tiffany.l.smith@edwardjones.com

Michael Warren, WMCP® 101-D Shoals Road, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041

336-368-0782

michael.warren@edwardjones.com

Christopher L. Funk 128 South State Street • PO Box 790 Yadkinville, NC 27055 • 336-679-2192 chris.funk@edwardjones.com

28 Angel Food Cake 55 Chef B’s Citrus-Champagne Sangria

Cheesy Orzo 26 Easter Coconut Macaroons 30 Lentil Sliders 45 Lola’s Trail Mix 34 Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Perfect Roasted Chicken 24 Puffy Corn Pudding 37 Quick & Easy Tortellini Soup 25 Ramen Carbonara 32 Strawberry Tiramisu 29 Sunshine Citrus Cake

From the coziness of your bedroom, to the library’s shelves ﬁlled with books, to the openness of our living room areas, to sit, talk and enjoy, or the gazebo for nature’s beauty, we share the comforts of home.

It’s 2,400 sq ft of helping patients reach their full potential with kitchen, bedroom & bath set-ups, so patients can practice preparing meals, bathing, getting in & out of bed...building the overall functional abilities they’ll need to return home, including speech therapy. Open for out-patients, our residents and all of the community.

Our Administrative Staff strives to create a family environment throughout our facility.

Elizabeth Lockett Administrator

Kathy Sparks Dietary Manager

Alisha Kinsey, RN Director of Nursing

Candy Crissmon Household Supervisor

Elizabeth Pardue Social Worker

Johnathan Smouse Maintenance Supervisor

Tammy Johnson Office Manager

STORY IDEAS

At Yadkin Valley Magazine we value the concerns, ideas and interests of our readers. We welcome all story ideas and suggestions, always keeping an open file and working them in when possible. All story ideas should be submitted by mail to: PO Box 2077, Yadkinville, NC 27055.

WEEKENDS

Please submit information regarding fundraisers, gallery show openings, plays, readings, concerts or other performances at least two months in advance of an issue’s cover date. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter yadkinvalleyweekends.com/weekends

DISTRIBUTION

The magazine is FREE at locations throughout the Yadkin Valley. You will find a highlight listing of pick-up locations on our web site at www.yadkinvalleymagazine.com. Not all locations will always have copies in stock.

ADVERTISING

We view our advertisers as people providing a service or a product who are genuinely interested in their customers. These businesses make it possible for you to enjoy the magazine for free. We hope that you’ll make them your first choice when you need the products and services they offer. Be sure to share that you read about them in Yadkin Valley Magazine.

Information about advertising is available at: yadkinvalleymagazine.com/advertising

Health and educational articles included in Yadkin Valley Magazine are for information purposes only. Be sure to consult your personal physician before you begin any diet, medicine or course of treatment.

Yadkin Valley Magazine is a publication of Crossroads Publishing, LLC.

PO Box 2077

Yadkinville, NC 27055

336-961-2620

March-April 2025

Volume 25 Number 4

PUBLISHER

Leah Wagoner Williams

ASSISTANT EDITORS

Victoria Williams

Rebecca Williams

ADVERTISING SALES

Leah Wagoner Williams

Ken & Denise Knight

Barbara Collins

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Barb Collins

Scott Duckworth

Peggy Isenhour

Chelsea Johnson

Madaline Jones

Dr. Heather Kilbourne

Carmen Long

Sharee Parker

Christi Pate

Kellee Payne

Lisa Prince

June Rollins

Leslie Rose

Jessica Wall

Rebecca Williams

PHOTOGRAPHS & PHOTOGRAPHERS

Scott Duckworth

Peggy Isenhour

Chelsea Johnson

Madaline Jones

Carmen Long

Sharee Parker

Christi Pate

Kellee Payne

June Rollins

Leslie Rose

Leah Williams

Rebecca Williams

DISTRIBUTION

Amber Harris

Ken & Denise Knight

Michael Scott

Isaac Williams

Mark Williams

a line from leah

I am excited to launch a series of articles about the Yadkin River, hence the cover photo. While not the wide, often muddy river I cross when traveling into Surry or Forsyth County, this photo is higher up in the valley. The river is narrow, shallow and clear at this spot in Caldwell County, not far from where it begins. I hope that you will read more on page 86.

While you wait for those warmer days of spring, be sure to read up on potential projects in the Home, Lawn and Garden pages. Maybe you would like to try container gardening, or need some tips to keep the clutter to a minimum without filling up our landfills. In the health and wellness section, there are even tips for mental spring cleaning. I am pretty sure that I need to take the advice for digital spaces! Or maybe you want to try a new recipe? There are more than a dozen in this issue, so give one a try!

The Writers Road Show Author Tour is coming up in April. With six authors scheduled for events in the Yadkin Valley, you are sure to find an event or two that interests you. You can find all the details beginning on page 49. I hope to see you there!

As we watch for warmer weather, please remember that winter tends to linger in the mountains. Our neighbors in western North Carolina, and other areas affected by Hurricane Helene, are still in need of basic supplies, ways to stay warm, and permanent shelter. I know that many of you in the Yadkin Valley have stepped up to donate, distribute, and lend a helping hand. But as time passes, fewer people are helping out. Please help in whatever way you are able. There are many reputable organizations that are working to help. The recovery in the mountains is far from over.

If you know someone who has recently celebrated this milestone birthday, Yadkin Valley Magazine would love to recognize them. Send in their name and a photo by April 1 to see them in the May/June issue. Photos mailed in will not be returned, so please send a copy.

Our telephone number is 336-961-2620 web address: yadkinvalleymagazine.com

Please email the following: Advertising Inquiries Weekends/Events Calendar Submissions

BEST Yadkin Valley COOKS recipes Pet Photos to: yadkinvalleymagazine@gmail.com

Yadkin Valley Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. Entire contents copyright 2024 All rights reserved. Reproduction of our created advertising materials and design work are strictly prohibited. Yadkin Valley Living, Yadkin Valley Magazine, Yadkin Valley Weekends, Best Yadkin Valley Cooks, 52 Pounds and then some!, are trademarks of Crossroads Publishing LLC, PO Box 2077, Yadkinville, NC 27055.

Proudly printed in the USA. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in the magazine. We assume no responsibility for changes in schedules, prices, hours or information.

Before travelling long distances, it is always wise to use the contact numbers included in the magazine to confirm that the events you wish to enjoy are still on schedule.

The contents of advertising and articles do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher. The publishers assume no responsibility for errors or omissions of any advertisement beyond the actual cost of the advertisement.

In no event shall the publishers be liable for any consequenstial damage or any damages in excess of the cost of the advertisement.

We offer solutions for: tough industrial applications commercial painting water fountains • concrete steps decks • car wash walls office buildings • homes concrete swimming pools garage floors painted AND sealed to withstand heat and water Got a painting project— we can do it!

Before you replace the wood on your deck, talk to us about…DECK RESTORE™ or DECK REVIVE products. Both products revive and protect wood surfaces such as wood and composite decking, stairs, docks and more. They install at a fraction of the cost of total surface replacement while adding years of life to older wood decks!

Our Design Specialist can offer creative ideas on any painting project. Whether you’re just needing a little guidance… or the whole idea.

Want to see more before & after samples of our work? Call me today and I’ll be glad to bring photos by for you to see. Discover how our superior protective coatings stand up to the toughest elements Mother Nature can throw at it.

How much will it cost?

My consultation visit and estimate are FREE. —Mark Diachenko Mark@PaintandCoatingsLTD.com

beginning s with June Rollins

Visit June’s website at: www.junerollins.com

Spring is on the Way

During my chilly morning solitary walks when I can still see my breath, red-winged blackbirds, perched and trilling in roadside branches urge me onward. Their uplifting conk-la-lee songs and red-orange epaulets on shiny blueblack tell me warmer, brighter days are on the way.

Red-winged blackbirds are a harbinger of spring and hope, especially for those who struggle with winter depression or, Seasonal Affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern, more severe in the winter.

During the painting process, I often receive new awarenesses. When painting Be Bold, the lyrics of Blackbird, the Beatles’ song written by Paul McCartney in1968, kept running through my mind prompting me to research the meaning of the lyrics. The following excerpts were taken from The National Audubon Society website, BirdNote episode interview with Paul McCartney, Jan 16, 2017.

“I was sitting around with my acoustic guitar and I’d heard about the civil rights troubles that were happening in the ’60s in Alabama, Mississippi, Little Rock in particular.”

McCartney said the inspiration behind Blackbird, came from watching footage of the Little Rock Nine, the nickname for the nine teenagers who became the first Black students to enter the formerly all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in September 1957, that prompted him to write the song. The Little Rock Nine re-

quired escorts by military personnel to protect them from protestors that had surrounded the high school.

“I just thought it would be really good if I could write something that if it ever reached any of the people going through those problems, it might give them a little bit of hope. So, I wrote Blackbird," he continued.

"In England, a bird is a girl, so I was thinking of a Black girl going through this; now is your time to arise; set yourself free; take these broken wings," he explained. In the song, McCartney tells the story of a blackbird "singing in the dead of night" who can "take these broken wings and learn to fly.”

"All your life, you were only waiting for this moment to arise," the musician sings, later, adding, "All your life, you were only waiting for this moment to be free.”

Many artists have performed their versions of Blackbird. Alicia Keys’ interpretation (on YouTube) touches my heart the most.

My hope for anyone experiencing any form of oppression; societal, seasonal, work-related, within a relationship, or within your mind, hold on and take heart. Spring is on the way.

The worst thing is never the last thing.Frederick Buechner

Lisa Prince

WRITER & PHOTOS

Lisa Prince, Director, NC Egg Association

5 Easter Egg Food Safety Questions: Answered

Hard-boiled eggs are an integral part of Easter celebrations! When purchasing, cooking, decorating, and eating hard-boiled eggs, know the answers to frequently asked food safety questions to be sure everyone stays healthy and fully enjoys the holiday celebrations. Can you eat colored hard-boiled eggs?

If the eggs were decorated with foodsafe dyes and stored properly in the fridge, they are safe to eat within one week of being cooked. If eggs are left out of refrigeration for more than two hours, they should be thrown away to prevent foodborne illness. When is the best time to buy Easter eggs?

Consider buying eggs about a week ahead of hard-boiling them for easy peeling. Fresh eggs can be hard to peel, so allow for 7-10 days in the refrigerator before making hard-boiled eggs. How do you peel a hard-boiled egg? Peel hard-boiled eggs as soon as they have finished cooling, which allows the egg to slightly contract in its shell. Crackle the egg all over by tapping it on

PUFFY CORN PUDDING

https://ncegg.org/recipes/puffy-corn-pudding/

a counter, then roll the egg gently between your hands to loosen the shell. Peel the egg starting at the large end. If you hold the egg under cold running water or dip it in a bowl of water, this may also help remove the shell. How long are hard-cooked eggs safe to eat?

Hard-cooked eggs should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking and used within one week. Eggshells have a protective coating that is washed away when eggs are hard-cooked. This leaves the pores in the shell open for bacteria to enter. If eggs crack during cooking or are peeled, they should be kept refrigerated and eaten within one to two days. How can a green ring around hardboiled egg yolks be avoided?

A green ring on a hard-cooked yolk is the result of overcooking. The green color is caused by sulfur and iron compound reactions on the yolk surface, and the ring occurs when the egg has been overcooked and not cooled down quickly. Discoloration due to overcooking does not impact food safety, or flavor, and these eggs are safe to eat.

The recipe is an excellent source of Choline and a good source of protein, Vitamin A and Folate.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Servings: 8

Cooking spray

1/2 cup butter, melted

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

6 large eggs

1 cup fat free half and half

3 cups whole kernel corn, canned OR frozen, thawed

1 can (15 ounces) cream style corn

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Spray a 3-quart casserole with cooking spray; set aside. Combine butter, flour, and sugar. Beat in eggs and half and half until blended. Stir in corn and cream style corn. Pour mixture into prepared casserole.Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

Pro Tips

• Eggs coagulate during heating and help give the baked pudding its creamy thick texture.

• Add a special touch by sprinkling the top of the pudding with buttered bread or cracker crumbs during the last 15 minutes of baking.

RAMEN CARBONARA

https://ncegg.org/recipes/ramen-carbonara/

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 2

For the ramen:

· 6-8 slices (4-6 oz) bacon, pancetta or guanciale, diced

· 2 cups (16 oz) boiling water

· 2 tablespoons olive oil

· 1 cup grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese, divided

· 2 (3-oz) packages ramen noodles (noodles only)

· 2 eggs, whisked together until smooth

· 2/3 cup frozen peas

· Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

· Scallions, sliced, for garnish

For the poached eggs:

· 2 eggs

· 1 tablespoon vinegar

1. Cook the bacon in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until the bacon is crisp. Transfer cooked bacon pieces onto a plate lined with paper towels and set aside.

2. Drain any excess fat from the pan but leave the browned bacon bits—they contribute a ton of flavor to the dish. Over medium-high heat in the same pan, add the olive oil, hot water, and about half of the cheese.

3. When the mixture comes to a boil, add the frozen peas and bricks of ramen noodles, stirring gently until the noodles are fully cooked and most of the liquid in the pan has evaporated, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Reduce the heat to low and stir the whisked eggs into the pan while stirring constantly for about a minute. Do not worry if the sauce looks too thin at this point, the eggs continue cooking after being taken off the heat, beautifully thickening the sauce. Stir in the reserved bacon, grated cheese, and some freshly ground black pepper. Remove from the heat.

5. If not making poached eggs, serve right away garnished with pepper and sliced scallions.

6. To top the pasta with poached eggs, bring a saucepan of water and the vinegar to a boil, and have a slotted spoon ready. Crack 2 eggs into a small cup or dish. Stir the boiling water until it creates a whirlpool, which will help each egg white wrap around itself into a tidy white cloud.

Gently slide each egg into the boiling water and leave to cook for 3-4 minutes (or until the white is fully cooked). Remove with a slotted spoon and place a poached egg over each serving of ramen.

foodsandflavors ™ ~

Gluten Free with Peggy Isenhour

Spring makes its appearance in March. Warmer weather is right around the corner. This month we celebrate Easter and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. St Patrick’s Day is celebrated in March with lots of green clothing, food and drinks. Daylight savings time adds a little bit of confusion to our biological time clocks as we spring forward an hour. I love sports, so March Madness is a fun time to watch college basketball. Research has shown that employee productivity decreases during March Madness to the loss of $13.3 billion during the tournament, so I guess it’s not a time everyone looks forward to. People begin the month of April by “fooling” each other. That was always a silly (and usually distracting) day in my teaching career. The 5-year-olds always thought it was so funny to fool the teacher. Their favorites were: “It is snowing outside,” or “You have a bug on your shirt.” Of course, I would always scream quietly and they would laugh hysterically. It seems like in April we really start feeling the warmth of spring. The early spring flowers are blooming, and the birds return to the feeders. As we all know…. “April showers bring May flowers,” so we have a beautiful month ahead.

Our recipes this month are Perfect Roasted Chicken and Easter Coconut Macaroons. The roasted chicken is one of my favorite entrees. It is so easy and delicious. The fresh thyme gives the chicken and vegetables so much flavor. The chicken is so moist, you would never guess it cooks at such a high temperature. It would make a great entrée for your Easter celebration. Easter Coconut Macaroons would be a yummy dessert for Easter. Children would love to help put the chocolate in the center along with the eggs to make Easter bird nests. If you are cooking gluten free, I have indicated in parentheses the name brand I use and recommend. Remember all gluten free flours have different moisture levels, so a different gluten free flour may produce different results.

Easter Coconut Macaroons

Happy Easter! Happy St. Patrick’s Day! Happy Spring! Blessings!

2/3 cup all purpose flour (I use King Arthur Measure for Measure gluten free flour)

5 ½ cups flaked coconut, packed

¼ teaspoon salt

1 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk (NOT evaporated milk)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

Nutella hazelnut spread

Jelly beans (Brach’s Classic Jelly Beans are gluten free; Brach’s speckled Jelly Bird Eggs are NOT gluten free)

In a large bowl, stir together the flour, coconut and salt. Stir together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla and almond. Add to coconut mixture. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Use an ice cream scoop to drop dough onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cookies should be about golf ball size. Bake in a 350 ° oven for 11-15 minutes or until coconut is toasted. As soon as they come out of the oven, make an indention in the middle with a buttered teaspoon. After cooling, put a spoon of Nutella in the indention. Put jelly beans on top of the chocolate.

Perfect Roasted Chicken

1 5 – 6 lb roasting chicken

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 large bunch fresh thyme + 20 sprigs

1 lemon halved

1 head garlic, cut in half crosswise

1 medium yellow onion, thickly sliced

½ bag baby carrots

1 small bag baby Yukon gold potatoes

1 cup chicken broth (Swanson broth is gluten free)

Olive oil

Preheat the oven to 425°. Remove the chicken giblets. Rinse the chicken inside and out and pat dry. Liberally salt and pepper inside the cavity of chicken. Stuff inside of the cavity with thyme, both halves of lemon and garlic. Brush the outside of the chicken with melted butter. Sprinkle again with salt and pepper. Place the onions, carrots and baby potatoes in a roasting pan. Toss with salt, pepper and about 20 sprigs of thyme Drizzle with olive oil. Spread vegetables around the bottom of the roasting pan and place the chicken on top. Roast the chicken uncovered for 45 minutes and then add 1 cup of chicken broth to keep vegetables moist. Cook for another 45 minutes or until the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165 °. Remove chicken and vegetables to a platter and cover with aluminum foil for about 20 minutes. Slice chicken and serve warm with vegetables.

Christi Pate

The Sweet Shack Bakery

111 West Main Street

Boonville, NC

336-467-0963

Angel Food Cake

It’s starting to feel like spring!!

Well actually, I’m sitting here, gazing out my window at the first beautiful snowfall that we’ve had in years.

The promise of spring is on my mind. The sun is shining brightly and the days are getting longer. I’m getting excited for farmers markets, peach and strawberry season, and the ability to walk out the door without a coat on.

Spring brings the promise of brighter days ahead, as well as fresh, vibrant flavors. From sunny lemon bars to my favorite springtime cakes, angel food, sunshine citrus cake, carrot cake and fluffy coconut cake. I believe spring baking is definitely worth coming out of hibernation for!

This recipe only uses 6 ingredients, but bakes up tall, light and airy.

Ingredients:

1 ¾ cups granulated sugar

1 cup + 2 tablespoons cake flour

¼ teaspoon salt

12 large egg whites, at room temperature

1 ½ teaspoon cream of tartar

1 ½ teaspoon vanilla

Directions:

Adjust the oven rack to the lower middle position and preheat the oven to 325 degrees. In a food processor or blender, pulse the sugar until fine and powdery. Remove 1 cup and set aside to use in step 3; keep the rest inside the food processor. Add the cake flour and salt to the food processor. Pulse 5-10 times until sugar/flour/salt mixture is aerated and light.

In a large bowl using a hand mixer or a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, whip egg whites and cream of tartar together on medium-low until foamy, about 1 minute. Switch to medium-high and slowly add the 1 cup of sugar you set aside. Whip until soft peaks form, about 5-6 minutes. Add the vanilla extract, then beat just until incorporated. In 3 additions, slowly sift the flour mixture into the egg white mixture, gently folding with a rubber spatula after each addition. To avoid deflating or a dense cake, don’t add the flour mixture all at once. Sift and very slowly fold in several additions.

This is important!

Pour and spread batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan. Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, about 40-45 minutes. Remove from the oven, then cool the cake completely upside-down on a wire rack, about 3 hours. Once cooled, run a thin knife around the edges and gently tap the pan on the counter until the cake releases. If desired, dust with confectioners’ sugar. Serve with whipped cream and fresh berries.

Sunshine Citrus Cake

This sunshine citrus cake cures the cold weather blues with bright flavor, a light and springy cake crumb, and creamy whipped frosting. Be sure to set aside enough time to prepare the lemon curd in advance.

Ingredients:

Lemon Curd

2 large egg yolks

1 large egg

2/3 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 lemon)

1/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2–3 lemons)

1/8 teaspoon salt

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature

Cake

1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup granulated sugar

1 and 1/2 Tablespoons citrus zest (combination of lemon, orange, and lime or other, see note)

2 large eggs, at room temperature

1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature

1/3 cup freshly squeezed citrus juice (combination of lemon, orange, and lime or other, see note)

Whipped Frosting

6 ounces full-fat brick cream cheese, softened to room temperature

3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

1 and 1/2 cups cold heavy cream or heavy whipping cream (very cold!)

optional: sliced citrus fruits or citrus twists to garnish

Instructions

Make the lemon curd: Fill the bottom pot of your double boiler with 1-2 inches of water. Place on high heat. Once the water begins to boil, reduce to low heat to keep the water at a simmer. Place egg yolks, egg, granulated sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and salt into the top pot of your double boiler. Using a silicone whisk (avoid metal because it leaves an aftertaste), whisk until completely blended and then continue to whisk as the curd cooks. Whisk and cook until the mixture becomes thick and is the consistency of hollandaise sauce or a really thick soup, about 10 minutes or when an instant read thermometer reaches 160°F (71°C). If curd isn’t thickening, turn up the heat and constantly whisk. Remove the pan from heat. Cut the butter into 6 separate pieces and then whisk into the curd until butter has melted and combined. Pour curd

into a jar or bowl and place a piece of plastic wrap directly on top so it is touching the top of the curd. This prevents a skin from forming on top. The curd will continue to thicken as it cools. Place in the refrigerator to speed up cooling. Once cool, the plastic wrap can be removed. Refrigerate the curd for up to about 10 days or for longer storage, you can freeze the cooled curd for up to 3-6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying. Makes 1 heaping cup.

Make the cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease three 9-inch round cake pans, lined with parchment paper rounds, then grease the parchment paper. Parchment paper helps the cakes seamlessly release from the pans.

Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl. Set aside. Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment, beat the butter and sugar together on medium-high speed until combined, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula and then add the citrus zest. Beat on medium-high speed until combined and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until combined. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed to combine. Add half of the flour mixture (just eyeball it), half of the milk, and half of the citrus juice. Beat on low speed until mostly combined, and then add the remaining flour mixture, milk, and citrus juice. Beat on low speed until combined. Do not over-mix. You may need to whisk it all by hand to make sure there are no large lumps at the bottom of the bowl. The batter will be slightly thick with some small lumps. You will have between 3.5 – 4 cups of batter.

Divide and pour batter evenly into cake pans. If the batter appears to have bubbles, give the pans a light tap on the counter to pop them. Bake cakes for 18-21 minutes or until baked through. To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it’s done.

foodsandflavors ™ ~

Elisa Phillips

Family and Consumer Sciences Agent

NC Cooperative Extension Wilkes County

Lentil Sliders*

Servings: 7 Ingredients

2 cups dry brown lentils

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

2 carrots, chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

Looking for a way to incorporate more vegetables in your diet?

In general, adults should strive to eat 2.5 to 3 cups of vegetables a day. It is equally important to eat a variety of vegetables. However, as we all know, achieving this goal can be challenging. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 1 in 10 adults in the United States consumes the recommended amount of vegetables.

While exploring new recipes is a great way to help you integrate more vegetables into your diet, subtle changes to your favorite recipes can also add up and help you meet your vegetable goals.

For example:

At breakfast, sauté some onions and tomatoes with your scrambled eggs.

At lunch, throw some dark leafy greens on your sandwich.

At dinner, add a few extra vegetables to your soup or spaghetti sauce or add some chopped mushrooms to your ground meat.

Before you know it, you’ve met your vegetable intake for the day!

That said, if you’re in the mood to try something new, this lentil slider recipe is full of vegetables, protein, and fiber. As a bonus, it’s delicious!

stantly.

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

1 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoon tomato paste

2 cups mushrooms (approx. 8 oz.), chopped

3 large eggs (or egg substitute)

¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

½ cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs

½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

¼ cup walnuts, finely chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400℉

Cook lentils in 8 cups of water over medium heat until tender (30-40 minutes). Set aside.

In a large saucepan, saute onions, carrots, celery, thyme, and salt in olive oil for 10 minutes or until vegetables are soft.

Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring con-

Add mushrooms and cook for 15 minutes or until mixture is dry.

Transfer mixture to a large bowl and cool to room temperature.

Add eggs, cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, walnuts, and cooked lentils to vegetable mixture. Cover and chill for at least 25 minutes.

Spray a large baking sheet with nonstick spray. Scoop chilled lentil mixture into 1–2 inch balls, packing mixture firmly. Arrange on the baking sheet about 1/2 inch apart.

Bake for 30 minutes. Let cool slightly and wrap with romaine lettuce.

*Recipe and photo from https://phytomedicine.plantsforhumanhealth.ncsu.edu/2023/06/15/lentil-sliders/

Visit the website link above for a video demonstration of this recipe.

WRITER & PHOTOS

Elisa Phillips

Allow cakes to cool completely in the pans set on a wire rack for 30 minutes. Remove cakes from the pans and set them on a wire rack to cool completely. The cakes must be completely cool before frosting and assembling.

Make the whipped frosting: In a large bowl using a handheld mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk or paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese on medium-high speed until creamy, about 1 minute. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed until creamy. Add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, and then beat on medium speed until combined and completely smooth (absolutely no lumps), at least 2 full minutes. Scrape down the sides and up the bottom of the bowl and beat again as needed to smooth out. Switch to a whisk attachment (if you haven’t already been using it). Turn the mixer to low speed and with the mixer running, carefully pour in the cream in a slow and steady stream. After all of the cream has been added, turn the mixer up to high speed and whip until thick and stiff peaks form, about 1-2 minutes. Do not walk away during this time and do not be concerned if your frosting takes longer to whip. You’re looking for a thick, airy consistency with stiff peaks. If your frosting appears soupy now or at any point you are working with it, it needs more whipping to introduce more air. If your frosting appears chunky or curdled, it’s over-whipped. To fix, stir 1 Tablespoon of heavy cream into the frosting by hand to smooth out again. You will have about 3.5 cups of frosting.

Make lemon curd frosting filling: Spoon 1 cup of frosting into a separate bowl. Stir in 3 heaping Tablespoons of cooled lemon curd. This will be your filling for the cake. Enjoy remaining lemon curd drizzled on the cake slices or as a topping on other baked goods.

Assemble & crumb coat the cake: First, make sure you have enough room for the cake inside your refrigerator because it must chill at the end of this step and briefly in the next step as well. If the cake layers aren’t flat on top, carefully and slowly level them off using a large, serrated knife. Place 1 cake layer on your cake stand or serving plate. Evenly cover the top with 1/2 of the lemon curd frosting. Top with the second cake layer and evenly cover the top with remaining lemon curd frosting. Top with the third cake layer. Spread a very thin layer of regular whipped frosting on top and all around the sides of the cake to create a crumb coat. Refrigerate uncovered for 30 minutes.

Add remaining frosting on a chilled crumb-coated cake. Refrigerate the decorated cake uncovered for at least 30 minutes to help set the frosting.

After 30 minutes in the refrigerator, the decorated cake is fine to slice and serve or sit out at room temperature for a few hours. Cover leftover cake tightly and store in the refrigerator for 5 days.

ShaRee H. Parker

WRITER & PHOTO

ShaRee H. Parker

Strawberry Tiramisu

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons clear vanilla extract

2 tablespoons Bailey’s Strawberry Cream liqueur

2 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur

2 tablespoons Bailey’s Irish Cream liqueur

8 ounces strawberry cream cheese spread, room temperature

1 cup cold water

4 tablespoons amaretto decaf coffee

4 tablespoons Amaretto liqueur

2 dozen Ladyfingers

1 cup strawberry jam, divided Fresh strawberries for garnish

Pre-chill empty KitchenAid bowl and whisk in the freezer for at least one hour. Add whipping cream to the chilled mixing bowl and beat on high speed until soft peaks form. Slowly add granulated sugar, clear vanilla extract, Bailey’s Strawberry Cream liqueur, 2 Tablespoons Amaretto liqueur, and Bailey’s Irish Cream liqueur and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Set aside approximately one cup of whipped cream for garnish. Add strawberry cream cheese spread to the remaining whipped cream and fold in until combined. Set aside.

Brew 4 Tablespoons amaretto decaf coffee with 1 cup cold water. Add 4 Tablespoons amaretto liqueur to the brewed coffee and refrigerate until cold. Pour cold coffee into a shallow dish. Dip the Ladyfingers in the coffee mixture (don't soak them - just quickly dip them on both sides to get them wet) and lay them in a single layer on the bottom of an 8” x 8” pan.

Smooth half of the strawberry cream cheese mixture over the top of the Ladyfingers. Spread half of the strawberry jam over strawberry cream cheese layer. Add another layer of dipped Ladyfingers. Smooth remaining strawberry cream cheese mixture over the top.

Spread remaining strawberry jam over the strawberry cream cheese layer. Decorate with the reserved whipped cream by using a decorating bag with stars or whirls tips. Garnish with fresh strawberries, if desired. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or overnight before serving.

I was eating at a restaurant in downtown WinstonSalem and they had Strawberry Tiramisu on the menu. That gave me the idea to come up with a recipe of my own. I hope that you enjoy this twist on traditional tiramisu. With the local strawberry season coming soon, this would make an excellent dessert for the spring. Luckily, we can find fresh strawberries year round so you can make this recipe anytime.

Popular Spinach Strawberry Chicken Salad! Fresh Spinach, Topped w/Feta Cheese, Grilled Chicken, Delicious Strawberry Poppyseed Dressing, Pecans & Cranberries

Mortgage Lifter Tomato

Ashworth Sweet Corn

Sugar Snap Pea Sunspot Sun Sunflower

State Fair Zinnia

Edisto 47 Muskmelon

foodsandflavors ™

Family Recipes

On the Family Recipe page, I will share some favorites from our family and those who are like family. Rebecca has become quite the cook, and it is nice to take a break from the kitchen when she is home. She does measure with her heart, especially cheese, so you can do the same on the Cheesy Orzo.

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

1-2 pounds of boneless chicken breasts or thighs, thawed

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt & pepper to taste

2 teaspoons garlic powder

2 teaspoons Italian seasoning

2 zucchini, cut a small as you like & enough to cover the chicken

2 Roma tomatoes, cut as small as you like & enough to cover the chicken (any kind of tomato will work, I prefer Roma)

Parmesan cheese, as much as you like (I prefer the shaved or shredded in small containers, typically in the deli department)

1. Preheat your oven to 400°.

2. Season chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, & Italian seasonings.

3. Place chicken in oven-safe dish & top with zucchini & tomatoes, add a drizzle of oil over the vegetables, then add parmesan cheese.

4. Bake chicken until 165° internally, around 45 mins.

5. Recommended: once chicken reaches 165°, turn broiler on to brown the cheese on top.

I typically eat this over cheesy orzo, but would be good on plain orzo, pasta, or rice.

Cheesy Orzo

Orzo pasta

2 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoons Italian seasoning

Parmesan cheese

1. Cook orzo until al dente.

2. Strain & return to pan.

3. Add butter, seasonings, & cheese.

Rebecca Williams

foodsandflavors ™ ~

Carmen Long

Long

WRITER & PHOTOS

Carmen Long Family and Consumer Agent

N.C. Cooperative Extension Surry & Alleghany county centers.

Fresh Herbs = Fresh Flavors

Looking for a way to save money in the kitchen while being able to serve delicious food? Try growing your own fresh herbs. A pack of herb seeds can be purchased for less than what you would spend in the produce department of your local grocery store to buy fresh herbs for just one recipe. SNAP benefits can also be used to purchase seeds. In Surry County, the Extension Master Gardeners have seed libraries at all of the local public libraries and the Senior Centers. Participants are able to choose three packages of seeds at each visit for free, some of which may be herbs. A pack of seeds can produce an abundance of herbs, some which can be dried or preserved for later use.

Spring is the perfect time to think about planting herbs. Fresh herbs can be grown in containers or in your yard or garden. Decide which would work better for you following these steps:

1: Indoor or outdoor, find a sunny spot for your plants.

•Your plants will need at least 5 hours of sunlight a day. For an indoor garden you may need to look for a small shelf or box to sit your plants on so they can be right in front of a window in your home.

•Make sure you have enough space for as many plants as you want to grow. Plants take several weeks to grow, so you may want to plant some now and more later so your herbs aren’t all ready at the same time.

•Some herbs like mint and chives can be invasive in your garden. Plant these in a pot to keep them spreading out of control.

2: Decide on a container for your plants.

•You don’t need a fancy clay pot to grow healthy plants.

•To save money, reuse large or small containers, like cleaned vegetable cans, plastic bins, yogurt or cottage cheese containers. Make sure that you make a few small holes at the bottom of whatever container you use for water to drain.

•Put a waterproof plate under your containers so the

water doesn’t drain out of the plant onto the floor or surface.

3: Add soil to your pots.

•Purchase a bag of all-purpose soil.

•For some plants, you will not need to use as much soil as for others. You can find planting depth tips on seeds. Some call for just barely covering the seeds with soil.

4: Water your seeds

•After covering your seeds lightly with soil, gently water.

•For container gardens, cover the top of the pot with clear plastic wrap or a clear lid to keep your soil moist.

•Check from time to time to make sure the top of your soil is still damp.

5: Watch them grow.

•Most seed packages tell you how long it will take for the seeds to grow. Many will begin growing in as little as 5 –10 days.’

•Remove the plastic covering over your containers once the plants begin growing.

6: Cut and enjoy your herbs.

•Do not pull your plant out by the roots to harvest. When mature, pinch off leaves or cut your plant to about a half inch above your soil so it can keep growing. Many herbs will continue to grow and be ready to cut again in just a few weeks.

Carmen

Try this recipe to utilize your fresh grown basil. To make this soup for a meal prep, freeze soup before adding the tortellini or spinach. Add the tortellini and spinach when ready to heat and eat. This quick recipe can be ready to serve in about 20 minutes from start to finish.

Quick & Easy Tortellini Soup

Ingredients

3/4 pound Italian turkey sausage links, casings removed

1 medium onion chopped (Frozen chopped onion found in the freezer section is a time saver with no waste. Just dump out as much as you need and refreeze for later use.)

6 garlic cloves, minced or ¾ teaspoon of garlic powder

2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth

1 3/4 cups water

1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini

1 package (6 ounces) fresh baby spinach, coarsely chopped

2 1/4 teaspoons minced fresh basil or 3/4 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 teaspoon pepper

Dash crushed red pepper flakes

Shredded Parmesan cheese, optional

Directions

1. Crumble sausage into a Dutch oven; add onion. Cook and stir over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in broth, water and tomatoes. Bring to a boil.

2. Add tortellini; return to a boil. Cook for 5-8 minutes or until almost tender, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat; add spinach, basil, pepper and pepper flakes. Cook 2-3 minutes longer or until spinach is wilted and tortellini are tender. Serve with cheese if desired.

References: Mass SNAP Nutrition Education

If you like fresh, local produce, there’s nothing like a farmer’s market. In Yadkinville, it is located near the Yadkinville Community Park on Tennessee Street. This year, the market will open on Saturday, May 13. Market days will be on Tuesdays from 3 pm - 6 pm and Saturdays from 9 am - 12 pm. Vendors must live and grow their produce in Yadkin or a surrounding county, so you know that you are getting the freshest strawberries, squash, tomatoes, peaches...and much more! In addition to fruits and vegetables, you might find a vendor selling cut flowers and potted plants, local beef and pork, eggs, honey, baked goods, and handmade crafts. Remember that cash is king at the market, only a few vendors accept cards for payment.

Potential vendors may contact Kellee Payne at the NC Cooperative Extension office.

336-849-7908

kellee_payne@ncsu.edu

Fresh produce is the star at the Yadkin Farmers Market! You can ﬁnd in-season fruits and vegetables, including these favorites and more!

Strawberries•Blueberries•Peaches Plums•Pears•Apples Lettuce•Onions•Cabbage•Broccoli•Kale•Spinach Squash•Zucchini•Cucumbers•Tomatoes Green Beans•Corn• Potatoes•Carrots•Turnips Cantaloupe•Watermelon

Local Beef & Pork•Farm Fresh Eggs

These two gentlemen are a wealth of knowledge when it comes to growing vegetables-be sure to chat with them if you see them at the market!

Far Left: Bill Miller grew and sold produce as recently as 2023, but still spends lots of time at the market.

Left: Everett Hartzog, retired Cooperative Extension Agent, helps with the community garden in Yadkinville.

Cut Flowers•Potted Plants

What Is PEMF?

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy

This therapy works deep in your body’s cells to promote healing of muscles, tissue and bone, alleviating pain from inflammation and arthritis, sports injuries at any age, sore muscles or even old injuries. Improve overall wellness, treat anxiety, or increase your energy with PEMF treatment!

Whether you’ve had a whiplash injury, took a fall, or just overdid it at the gym, let us help you heal naturally! These types of injuries involve your soft tissue, which consists of nerves, muscles, tendons, ligaments and cartilage. Unlike broken bones, soft tissue injuries can take years to heal.

If your spine is out of alignment, it can cause tissue tears, irritation, inflammation and scar tissue. When ignored,this can lead to altered biomechanics, spinal degeneration and disabling osteoarthritis.

Chiropractic care can improve your joint range of motion and break up scar tissue, increase your circulation and reduce inflammation for a faster more complete healing.

A Chiropractic adjustment is a controlled motion that can restore the alignment and function of your spine. The Open Rehabilitation Journal states controlled motion “can stimulate the repair and restoration of function.”

Everyday is More Fun When You Feel Fantastic!.

We see patients every day that come in struggling to walk, lift or turn their heads. Yet, after completing their program of Chiropractic care they have returned to their normal activities.

Don’t suffer needlessly from misaligned, injured and inflexible spinal joints. Spinal adjustments effectively reduce pain and enhance health... without drugs or surgery!

Let us help you and the people you care about live healthier and more active lives. CALL NOW!

Call: (336) 679-8500 for an

mention

when

Wellness Headed Outside? Keep Safe from the Elements

WRITER Jessica O. Wall, MPH

Director, Yadkin County Human Services Agency Medical Clinic and Wic jwall@yadkincountync.gov 336.849.7588

Of course when the weather is nice, the first thing we want to do is run outside and play. Maybe that means heading out to the garden or taking a dip at the local pool or just having a rest on your porch. Doing any of these outdoor activities, or others, puts you at risk for injury or harm. You’re getting ready to head outside, but have you thought about bugs and bites? Or the sun and heat? Or even asthma and allergies? You should! Take into consideration these simple steps so that your outdoor time can be the best time.

Be sure to fight the bite. Mosquito, tick, and flea bites that is. These biting insects can carry diseases such as the West Nile virus or Lyme disease. The best thing you can do to protect yourself is wear long-sleeve shirts and pants and use the correct type and amount of insect repellent. Your insect repellent should be at least 20% DEET. You could also look for repellents that contain Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as these are recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency (go to EPA.gov for more information). Remember that mosquitoes are usually most active from dusk to dawn, but ticks can be around at all times. After coming back inside, shower immediately and check yourself for ticks. Check pets and children as well. Wash and dry the clothes you were wearing. If you do find a tick, remove it with a pair of fine tipped tweezers. Contact your healthcare provider if you have the following signs or symptoms 1-3 weeks after a tick bite: rash, fever, body aches, fatigue, headache, stiff neck, and/or disorientation. Keep the shrubs, bushes, and grass trimmed within 100 feet of your home as well as pick up any lying brush, leaf litter or wood piles close to your home. Dump any standing water and remove items that can easily collect standing water, as this is where mosquitoes can breed.

If you are going outside to garden or to do yard work, think safety first. Again, wear long sleeves and pants when possible and always wear insect repellent. Wear gloves and safety gear (such as goggles/safety glasses), especially when handling chemicals and equipment. Make time for plenty of rest breaks and drink plenty of water to hydrate yourself. As always, follow any instructions on chemicals and equipment and mind all warning labels. Know that your equipment is working properly before using it and be careful when sharpening any tools you are going to use. Keep chemicals, tools, and equipment out of the reach of children and know where your children are when you are using equipment, especially a riding lawn mower. Asthma and allergies can also be an issue when working outside. Take prescribed or over-the-counter medication as directed and wear a face mask to protect against those tiny dust and pollen particles.

Sun safety is another big piece of outdoor safety, and in any weather. This will help protect you against skin damage, which can cause skin cancer. The sun’s UV rays are most dangerous between the hours of 10am and 4pm, so avoid being outside during these times if you can. If you need to be outside, remember the five S’s of sun safety: Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide. Slip on a shirt, slop on some sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek some shade, and slide on some sunglasses.

Being outside can be a great way to boost your physical activity, especially when the weather is nice. But don’t let your guard down. Follow these simple tips when doing any outdoor activities to help keep your family healthy and safe all summer long.

65'77%89::';<%$& "

%34'5

!"#$%$&

'( )*)&"*)"+,"-+". "/$)01

2$ 3$4"5())4

67"$)0"'$67"8$*)9:+*;;)11

84$)+$ "-$16**+*1

'$4$)6"8 .<4%1

1+411"!&1

8$*)"":+ )&+,"$)0"#)0( $)6"$11(1

-*< .%%$4&*$

'44&1"8$41%

:,*)&41

-*)"'.+. 9/$)0"8 .<4%1

5))*19(.4; &1"#4<.)

#0%$"$)0":)44*)&

(&-"&7= 7 ) >&%%"0 8&&-).+ 7$&)! (& "7)#& %).#6)#&" )7 #).5 "> (&7& &7&&#&1 4.148416)%7=

foodsandflavors ™ ~

Chelsea Johnson

WRITER & PHOTOS

Chelsea Johnson

Family and Consumer Agent

N.C. Cooperative Extension Yadkin County Cooperative Extension

Spring Cleaning for Your Mental Health

Spring cleaning isn’t just for our homes; it’s a wonderful opportunity to refresh our mental health too! As the weather warms up and flowers bloom, we can take a cue from nature and shake off some of the emotional baggage we’ve been carrying. Think of it as giving your mind a little spring makeover!

To start, it’s really helpful to reflect on how you’ve been feeling. Sometimes, we get so caught up in our day-to-day lives that we forget to check in with ourselves. Grab a journal and jot down your thoughts. What’s been stressing you out? What emotions are coming up for you? This can help you pinpoint areas that might need extra love and attention.

Once you have an idea of what’s weighing you down, it’s time to let go of what no longer serves you. Just like you would donate clothes that you never wear, think about the relationships in your life. Are there friendships that drain your energy? Are you holding onto past grudges? Setting boundaries or letting go of connections that bring negativity can feel incredibly freeing and allow you the space to thrive.

Next up is taking a look at your commitments. Are you over-committed? If your calendar is packed to the brim with activities or obligations that don’t spark joy, it might be time for a change. Spring is a great time to re-evaluate what’s essential and what can be set aside. Saying "no" to unnecessary obligations is a powerful act of self-care that can help lighten your mental load and create a healthier balance.

Another fun part of mental spring cleaning is embracing new, positive habits! Consider incorporating daily practices that promote mindfulness and joy. This could be anything from a morning meditation to taking a leisurely walk in nature or even trying out a new hobby. Finding moments in your day to recharge can help clear your mind and keep you feeling great. These activities not only enrich your daily life but also allow for deeper self-discovery and self-expression.

Let’s not forget about our digital spaces! Just like dust bunnies under the couch, our digital lives can get cluttered too. Spend some time clearing out your email inbox or unfollowing social media accounts that don’t uplift you. A tidy digital space can lead to a more peaceful mind and lessen any online stress. Consider setting daily limits on your screen time to promote a healthier balance between online and offline interactions.

Lastly, remember to stay connected! Engaging in creative pursuits, whether it’s painting, crafting, or even cooking, can be a fun way to express yourself and work through emotions. And don’t hesitate to share your feelings with friends or loved ones. Sometimes just chatting with someone who cares can lighten your mental load and provide a fresh perspective.

As you embark on this refreshing journey, take a moment to celebrate your progress. Small victories contribute to overall well-being. Acknowledge your efforts and give yourself grace as you navigate the process of mental spring cleaning.

In a nutshell, spring cleaning for your mental health is all about making room for positivity and self-love. By recognizing what isn’t helping you anymore, nurturing supportive relationships, embracing mindfulness, and diving into things that inspire you, you can emerge feeling refreshed and ready to bloom, just like those beautiful flowers outside. So, let’s welcome this season of renewal with open arms and let our minds flourish!

Chelsea Johnson

Discover Your Best Self at Aesthetix Laser and Medspa

At Aesthetix Laser and Medspa , we believe in the power of self-care and transformation. Our mission is to help you look and feel your absolute best through cutting-edge treatments, personalized care, and a luxurious experience that rejuvenates both body and mind.

Our team of licensed medical professionals offers a variety of customized services including:

●Neurotoxin and Dermal Fillers

●Laser Hair Removal

●IPL - photofacials

●Frax

●Microneedling

●RF Microneedling

●Hair Restoration

● Anteage and Revision skin care products

● Hydration

A Transformation Awaits

When you visit Aesthetix Laser and Medspa you’re not just receiving treatments—you’re embarking on a journey to enhanced confidence and well-being. Whether you’re looking to refresh, tighten or tone your skin, or simply relax, we’re here to make it happen.

Ready to start your journey? Consultations are complimentary!

Contact us at 336-409-0241 or visit our website www.aesthetixlaserandmedspa.com to schedule your appointment. Follow us on @aesthetixlaserandmedspa_pllc for the latest updates, tips, and specials.

Exclusive Offer

Let us celebrate you! Book Your Appointment and mention this ad for 20% off your first treatment as a new client. Don’t miss the chance to begin your transformation today!

Aesthetix Laser and Medspa: Where Beauty Meets Science, and Confidence Comes Naturally.

Madaline Jones

WRITER/PHOTOS

Madaline Jones

4-H Agent Yadkin County madaline_jones@ncsu.edu

4-H Presentations: A Path to Public Speaking Confidence

Few words can evoke fear like the words: Public Speaking. The pure thought of having to speak in public can make some of us feel anxious, uncomfortable, experience tread, and overall fear. The University of Florida even found that between 72-75% of Americans fear public speaking. Regardless of this fear, it is something that many of us have to deal with at some point in our lives. Whether being in school, college, work, promoting a product, etc, it’s something that at some point we have to do and is a very vital life skill for us to obtain.

4-H sees that need and wants our 4-H members to break that cycle of fear early on. 4-H Presentations are a part of North Carolina 4-H and it is one of the most successful ways to help a young person learn how to do a public speech. It focuses on 4H’ers, ages 5-18, teaching others what they know about a particular project/subject matter. We give youth an avenue to not only do a presentation to help practice their public speaking skills, but also give a way for them to express an interest they have and have the opportunity to win prizes (such as ribbons, medals, and money) along the way!

Getting started doing a 4-H Presentation is easy too! Here are some helpful tips on how to make sure you are on the right track with getting started with your 4-H Presentation. How to get Started

Before you even start thinking about doing your 4-H Presentation, make sure to contact your local 4-H agent. All counties have different deadlines for this competition so it is important

to contact them first. Next, you want to pick a topic that YOU are interested in as the presenter. Nothing is more boring than writing about something that you really have no desire to learn about. 4-H Presentation can really be on anything you want it to be on! We have 35 categories and we even have an open class if your presentation topic is unique. Next, you need to do the research. You can find resources to help you learn about your topic through online resources, books, interviews with experts, etc..

Formatting the 4-H Presentation

There are so many ways to do a 4-H Presentation. This is one layout I like to give my 4-H’ers to get them started and so they have a roadmap of how to layout their presentation.

The Attention Getter

This can be a short story, telling the audience about some facts or statistics regarding your topic, jokes, activity, etc.

Introduction

Tell the audience your name, age, club, county, and the title of your presentation. Example: Hello! My name is Luke Skywalker. I am 10 years old and I am a member of the Storm Trooper 4-H Club in Yadkin County and I am here today to talk to you about “The AMAZING World of Snakes in North Carolina!”

Introduce your topic by giving some facts about it. Or you could simply go into what’s discussed in the next bullets.

Outline

Tell the audience what you are going to talk about in 3 or more

points. Example:

What kind of Snakes Live in NC

How to Identify Snakes in NC

Where Snakes can be Found in NC

How we can Coexist with Snakes in NC

Body

Talking to your audience about each one of the points in your outline. This can also be considered the “meat” of your presentation. Summary

Outline what you have spoken about in your presentation and highlight the main points from each. Hint: This can be the exact same list from your outline!

References

Make sure to list your references!! You can cite websites, books, interviews, and 4-H curriculum. Be specific though! Do not just say “the internet” when listing your sources. When looking for references, please refer to updated materials and make sure to use credible websites such as ones that end in “edu,” “gov,” or “org.”

Questions

Ask the judges if they have any questions at the conclusion of your presentation (only the judges will ask you questions, not the audience).

Answer with more than “yes” or “no” replies. If you do not know the answer, that’s okay! You can tell the judges that you are not aware of the answer to that question at this time, but you will do more research to learn the answer to the question.

Benefits of doing a 4-H Presentation

The benefits of 4-H Presentations are numerous. By competing in this 4-H competition, youth can learn how to overcome the fear of public speaking and gain self confidence in this skill. This skill is one that youth can carry into their adulthood to help them in college, work, and beyond. Youth also gain knowledge on the subject matter that they choose to do their presentation on. Also, 4H’ers gain a healthy sense of competition that helps them strive to do better the next time they present or simply have to use this skill.

For more information on 4-H Presentation, please visit our North Carolina 4-H website at https://go.ncsu.edu/cbw1gwc. There you can find the categories we offer, score sheets, rules, and more. If you want to do a 4-H Presentation, make sure to contact your Cooperative Extension 4-H Development Agent. NC Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity provider and welcomes all to come learn about our programs. Visit ces.ncsu.edu to learn more about NC Cooperative Extension by clicking on the “County Centers” tab and selecting your home county. For more information about Yadkin County 4-H, please contact Madaline Jones at madaline_jones@ncsu.edu or through calling at 336-849-7908.

1 cup of peanuts

1 cup cashews

1/2 cup of sunflower seeds

1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds

1 cup of diced coconut tidbits

1 cup dried pineapple

1 cup banana chips

1 cup marshmallows

1 cups peanut butter filled pretzels

1 cup dark chocolate covered peanuts

Mix all ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Store in an airtight container.

Enjoy!

Lola’s Trail Mix

Yadkin Lumber Company, Inc.

Yadkin Lumber Company was founded in 1947 by C. Hugh Dinkins, Ray Reavis, and W.G. Wooten, Jr. in what used to be a cornfield north of Yadkinville. By the mid 1970s, just Mr. Dinkins, along with his family, was left to continue the business. Nearly eighty years later, Charles Dinkins and his sister Ann Dinkins Park continue to own and operate the business that their father helped begin.

Lumber was originally the only product offered at Yadkin Lumber Company. At one time, lumber was dressed there twenty-four hours a day. Unfortunately, changes in building codes in the 1970s required that lumber be grade stamped, and west coast lumber became the standard. Rough lumber continued to be produced, but was no longer the primary building material that people needed. Yadkin Lumber is one of the few lumber companies in the area to still offer local pine lumber.

The business began with an open shed, but buildings were added through the years. In the current retail space, both builders and homeowners can find an array of supplies. Bins of nails and screws? They’ve got ‘em. Power tools, and replacement items like blades? You have your choice of Milwaukee and Skil, among others. Plumbing? Electrical? Hardware? Brick? Yep, they’ve got those, too. They will even deliver construction materials to you.

Whether you need a load of lumber for a big project , or just a spare key cut, Yadkin Lumber has got you covered. Be sure to check them out when you start those projects around your home this spring.

Listen to books from our Road Show for free through the Hoopla service offered by your local library!

Available on Hoopla

• Marjorie Hudson - Indigo Field

• Valerie Nieman - In the Lonely Backwater, To the Bones

• Susan Zurenda - The Girl From the Red Rose Motel

• Dale Neal The Woman With the Stone Knife

• Charlie Lovett – The Enigma Affair, Escaping Dreamland

• Belinda Sullivan - E-book Just Peachy, Let’s Brunch, Southern Sugar

Tour Kickoff

Marjorie Hudson in conversation with Valerie Nieman

SUNDAY, APRIL 6, 2025

2 pm - 4 pm

Pages Books & Coffee

336-789-3363

192 N. Main Street Suite 200, Mount Airy

Welcome to the Writers Road Show Authors Tour!

Who we are…a group of authors and artists with a homebase at Pages Books and Coffee in downtown Mt. Airy, NC. Our tour is promoted through social media channels, the Northwestern Regional Library System, and on the pages of Yadkin Valley Magazine through the Yadkin Valley Readers section.

Authors will tour the Readers Trail during National Library Week, April 6-13, and make stops at branch libraries in the Northwestern Regional Library System.

All library sponsored events are free and open to the public, and thanks to our sponsor Cheerwine, “the South’s unique cherry soft drink” will be served at all library events!

Tour Overview

See following pages for more details about each author and event, including time and location

Authors

Marjorie Hudson & Valerie Nieman

Dale Neal

Susan Zurenda

Charlie Lovett & Belinda Sullivan

Dates

April 6

April 7, 8, 9, 10

April 8, 9

April 13

Locations

Pages

Danbury, Pages, Sparta, Sanders Ridge

Elkin, Pages

Pages

Marjorie Hudson author of Indigo Field

Valerie Nieman author of Upon the Corner of the Moon

Why I Write Novels Dale Neal

Dale Neal author of Kings of Coweetsie

The myth of the Southern writer always originates in the petri dish of the summer front porch, cultured by some garrulous grandparent beating your eardrums bloody with how it was back in the day.

I come from a good but quiet people, who kept the juiciest stories to themselves about family secrets, those black sheep among the complicated cousinage, whispered divorcees and suspicious deaths — tales not to be discussed in earshot of impressionable minds.

My grandfather lived about as far away from that suburban world as you could get midway through the 20th century, up in Watauga County, just this side of the Tennessee line, on a 24-acre mountainside farm dependent mostly on an tobacco allotment, chickens and a milk cow. My grandfather never owned a tractor, but relied on Dan the draft horse to plow his fields in spring, and in the summer, pull a wooden sled up the mountainside to begin collecting firewood for the cold winter to come.

MONDAY, APRIL 7, 2025

1 pm -3 pm

Writers Workshop

Danbury Library 336-593-2419

1007 North Main Street, Danbury

Marie Bostwick

"This is a novel about ambitious women and the mentors that inspired them to excellence

Bostwick carves an unforgettable path for her characters."—

Adriana Trigiani, bestselling author of The Good Left Undone

Getting to Know Susan Zurenda

I taught English for 33 years on the college and high school levels. My novel, The Girl From the Red Rose Motel, is inspired by my teaching life, particularly the last ten years at Spartanburg High School. A couple of situations in this novel, set in fictitious Ramsey, SC, in 2012, are based on actual incidents, but one is not that I had an affair with the principal! That’s my character Angela Wilmore.

At Spartanburg High School, I taught four 12th Grade AP English classes of extremely bright and typically well-off students motivated to earn college credit in high school, versus a Reading Strategies class comprised of nearly illiterate teenagers, most from deprived backgrounds, trying to improve their reading scores enough to pass the South Carolina exit exam to graduate. The wide disparity among my students and my desire to succeed in teaching both extremes was the inspiration for creating my characters Sterling Lovell and Hazel Smalls. These students are opposite in almost every way imaginable, and I wanted to see what would happen if I made their worlds collide and a teacher got involved. What I discovered — along with my three main characters navigating complications you might never imagine — is hope, resilience, and most importantly, the overwhelming capacity of love.

Join us during the Writers Road Show Author Tour for a discussion of this unusual love story where you’ll cheer for these characters, especially Hazel who makes a bold and astonishing life-changing decision at the end.

TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025

4 pm - 5 pm

Book Talk - The Girl from the Red Rose Motel Elkin Library 336-835-5586

111 North Front Street, Elkin

Sponsored by: Friends of the Elkin Public Library

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 2025

5 pm -7 pm

192 N. Main Street Suite 200, Mount Airy

Sponsored by: Pages Books & Coffee Surry County Libraries

Susan Zurenda author of

The Girl from the Red Rose Motel

Charlie Lovett is a New York Times bestselling novelist and award-winning playwright. He hosts the podcast, Inside the Writer’s Studio, and is an avid collector of Lewis Carroll materials,including Carroll’s 1888 typewriter.

Tour Finale

Conversation & Cocktails with Charlie Lovett & Belinda Sullivan

As a child growing up in WinstonSalem, I often lurked around the edges of a common 1970s event—the cocktail party. I didn’t know the difference between Scotch and Bourbon or what words like “neat” or “on the rocks” meant; what I did understand was that cocktail hour was a time for relaxed socializing, a time for building friendships and setting aside the cares of the world for a while. Cocktails, I sensed, had much more to do with who was in the room than with what was in the glass. As I matured, I learned that both the people and the liquids associated with cocktail hour can be rejuvenating.

Imagine my delight, then, when Winston-Salem cookbook author Belinda SmithSullivan invited me to write the foreword for her new book, Cocktails Southern Style, released this month.

I first met Belinda when she came to our home for dinner with a gang of authors after the Bookmarks festival a few years ago. We all found her to be an absolute delight, and we’ve enjoyed getting to know Belinda and her recipes.

Belinda lives here in North Carolina, but her culinary influence is felt far and wide. She is a monthly food

columnist for South Carolina Living Magazine and actively involved in other professional organizations. As if that weren’t enough, she’s a commercially rated pilot!

Following the success of her previous three books, Just Peachy, Let’s Brunch, and Southern Sugar, Belinda’s latest release, Cocktails Southern Style brings readers approximately 90 recipes for classic Southern cocktails, new flavor-profile mixed drinks, and a bonus chapter on nibbles and treats to compliment. She includes information about the structure of a cocktail, techniques, and equipment. You will find instructions for making infused vodkas, simple syrups, and more. From cocktails to mocktails, from brunch to happy hour, this book gives you what you need to take your cocktail game up a notch!

Join us at Pages Books & Coffee in Mt. Airy on April 13 from 2-4pm for some Sunday afternoon conversation about books, entertaining, and of course, Southern cocktails. Even if 2 o’clock is a little early for a true 1970s Southern cocktail hour, as my grandfather always said, “It’s five o’clock somewhere.”

SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 2025

2 pm - 4 pm

Belinda Smith-Sullivan author of Cocktails Southern Style: Pours, Drinks, Sips, and Bites

CHEF B’S CITRUSCHAMPAGNE SANGRIA

This crowd-pleasing bubbly and festive sangria is a party waiting to happen. Perfect for summer or anytime holidays, celebrations or just because. Make it yours and whatever you want it to be! Rosemary as a garnish with this cocktail holds its own with the powerful and fragrant citrus flavors.

MAKES ONE LARGE PITCHER

1 grapefruit

1 lemon

1 orange

1 large lime

1/4 cup superfine sugar

1/4 cup cognac

1 bottle red wine

1/2 cup orange juice

Champagne or presecco

Fruit slices

Rosemary sprigs

GLASS: red wine glass

Thinly slice the grapefruit, orange, lemon, and lime. Place in a container and sprinkle with sugar and cognac. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours.

Put ice in a large pitcher (at least 60 ounces) andadd the citrus mixture. Pour in the red wine, orange juice, and champagne. Stir to thoroughly combine. Pour into glasses filled with ice and garnish with fruit slices and rosemary.

Darnell Arnoult – Online Only

Due to unforeseen scheduling issues, Darnell Arnoult will not be making in-person stops at NWRL branches during Library Week. She is open to meeting with book clubs and library groups online to talk about her novel Sufficient Grace or her collection of poetry, Incantations. Schedule through your library or group representative. Darnell is also available for online writing workshops, and can work with your group directly to tailor the workshop to meet your specific needs. From ways to gather your own memories to crafting works of fiction for publication, Darnell is ready to work with your group in a virtual setting.

from Cocktails Southern Style: Pours, Drinks, Sips, and Bites by Belinda Smith-Sullivan

Home & Garden

Kellee Payne

WRITER/PHOTOS

Kellee Payne

Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent

N.C. Cooperative Extension Yadkin County Center

kellee_payne@ncsu.edu

Facebook @YadkinCountyHorticulture

Grow Food Anywhere: Your Guide to Container Gardening

Are you ready to grow your own food, even with limited space? Let’s explore how to bring this to life in your area! Growing plants in containers can offer homeowners more flexibility allowing you to easily make changes in location to allow for proper sunlight and temperature. If you are without a large yard or garden to grow vegetables, herbs, or flowers, you may want to consider container gardening. Container gardens also allow those with physical limitations the chance to enjoy gardening. With an array of container-loving plants and an abundance of beautiful planters available, the possibilities for your garden are truly limitless. Remember that all plants require the same basic environmental conditions for survival. Containergrown plants thrive when provided with the optimal environment. This includes careful management of light, water, temperature, air movement, and humidity levels, as well as regular fertilization. Selecting a well-draining and nutrient-rich growing medium is equally important for plant health and vigor.

Container gardening adds vibrant color and visual interest to any space. It's perfect for growing edibles like herbs and vegetables, especially in situations with limited space, challenging soil conditions, or wildlife issues.Versatile and adaptable, containers can be placed virtually anywhere –rooftops, balconies, patios, decks, entrances, or walkways. Their mobility allows for easy relocation to optimize sunlight (tomatoes, petunias) or shade (lettuce, impatiens)

and even provides winter protection for plants like rosemary. Container gardening provides a wealth of advantages, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of gardeners. These benefits include improved accessibility, increased convenience, and greater control over plant growth. While container gardening offers the flexibility to grow plants almost anywhere, it requires more attentive care due to factors such as faster drying of the potting mix, increased nutrient leaching, and greater susceptibility to temperature fluctuations. However, with proper care, container gardening allows for year-round enjoyment of fresh produce and herbs.

Success in container gardening hinges on selecting plants with compact growth habits. Most annuals are well-suited, while perennials should be chosen for their compact nature, such as 'bush,' 'dwarf,' or 'miniature' varieties, or those specifically bred for containers. Leafy greens thrive in containers, but avoid vining crops like corn and large pumpkins/watermelons. Opt for bush varieties of squash, cucumbers, and melons. Fruit trees in containers will yield less than those planted in the ground, but the harvest will still be rewarding. Expect a proportional yield based on the plant's size.

For guidance on when to plant vegetables, fruit, and herbs in containers, refer to the planting calendars provided in

Tables 18-3, 18-4, and 18-5. https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/extension-gardener-handbook/18-plants-grown-incontainers#section_heading_8772

Planting

When container gardening, seeds are sown directly into the container, while others, such as annual flowers, are best started as transplants. To ensure adequate plant numbers, always overseed, as germination rates can be unpredictable. After the seeds have sprouted, seedlings can be thinned to the desired number. For example, thin beets, carrots, and radishes to 2 inches apart, while swiss chard and lettuce should be thinned to 4-6 inches. When thinning seedlings, cut or pinch them off at the base to avoid disturbing neighboring plants. For transplants, gently loosen the root ball before planting at the original depth. Ensure sufficient space for root growth by allowing at least 3 inches of potting mix below the root ball. Water thoroughly. Provide support structures (trellises) for vining plants like beans, cucumbers, and tomatoes at the time of planting to minimize root disturbance. Remember that fruit trees like blueberries, grapes, and figs may take several years to reach full fruit production. Most flowers, vegetables, and fruits require full sun (6-8 hours daily) for optimal growth. Cool-season crops like beets, carrots, and lettuce thrive in partial shade (3-5 hours). Container gardening allows you to utilize microclimates – shade from overhangs, warmth from reflective surfaces. Southern and western exposures receive the most sun, while northern and eastern exposures are cooler and shadier.

Container gardens can feature multiple plant varieties as long as their light, water, and nutrient needs are similar. For example, lavender, thyme, and oregano thrive together due to similar requirements. Beyond growing needs, consider combining plants based on harvest time, form, size, texture, color, or culinary uses to create themed gardens. For visual impact, position the tallest plant centrally or against the back. Place cascading plants near the edges to soften the container's outline, and position medium-height plants in the middle. Consider using odd numbers of plants (one tall, three medium, five small) for a more balanced appearance.

For guidance on light, water, and nutrient requirements, refer to Tables 18-6, 18-7, and 18-8 using the link above.

Irrigation

Container plants can be watered from various sources, but irrigation methods greatly influence nutrient leaching. Watering needs vary widely and are influenced by numerous factors, such as wind, light intensity, temperature, humidity, container size and material, potting mix composition, root-to-media ratio, plant type, and growth stage. Applying a layer of mulch on the potting mix surface significantly reduces moisture loss. When watering container plants, sev-

eral methods are available: watering cans, hoses, drip emitters on a timer, or self-watering containers. The most suitable method will vary depending on the individual situation. Choosing the right watering method for your container plants depends on your needs and preferences. Here's a breakdown of popular options:

1. Watering Can:

Pros: Most affordable option, allows using rainwater collected in barrels.

Cons: Requires manual watering, can lead to nutrient leaching if overwatered, wetting foliage increases risk of sunscald and disease.

Suited for: Small numbers of plants, gardeners who prefer manual watering.

2. Garden Hose:

Pros: Lightweight and convenient for reaching multiple containers, readily available.

Cons: Hot water from a sun-baked hose can damage roots, wetting foliage increases risk of sunscald and disease.

Suited for: Watering several containers on a patio or deck, quick watering sessions.

3. Drip Irrigation System:

Pros: Convenient, timesaving, delivers water directly to plant roots, reduces nutrient runoff, allows for timers and rain sensors.

Cons: Requires initial investment and setup time, needs regular maintenance.

Suited for: Large numbers of containers, busy gardeners, those seeking consistent and efficient watering.

4. Self-Watering Containers:

Pros: Provides consistent moisture through capillary action, minimizes risk of overwatering, ideal for weekend gardeners, balcony gardens, or vacations.

Cons: Can be expensive to purchase multiple containers, become heavy when filled with water.

Suited for: Plants requiring consistent moisture, gardeners with limited watering time, situations where drainage is an issue.

Container plants have increased water needs in hot, windy conditions, and when grown in small, dark-colored pots or full sun. Consistent access to water is essential, as most mature plants require daily watering. Allowing containers to completely dry out damages feeder roots, leading to flower and fruit drop. When re-watered, the plant prioritizes root regrowth, slowing overall growth. To prevent drought stress and wilting, insert a finger 2-3 inches into the potting mix. If it's dry, water thoroughly until excess water drains from the bottom of the container. Avoid overwatering, as it deprives roots of oxygen. Always remove

excess water from saucers after watering to prevent root rot, salt buildup, and mosquito breeding. To conserve moisture, apply a 1-inch layer of mulch to the surface of the potting mix after planting. Pull the mulch back slightly from the base of the plant to prevent moisture buildup and potential disease. Water-holding polymers (like Polyacrylamide hydrogels) are not recommended for water management in containers.

Nutrient Management

Frequent watering in containers leaches out water-soluble nutrients, especially nitrogen. As fruiting begins, plants increase nitrogen demand, depleting leaf tissues. Organic options like fish emulsion or compost can be used, but fish emulsion has a strong odor and may attract pests. Apply foliar fertilizers early in the morning when stomata are open, temperatures are below 80°F, wind is minimal, and humidity is high. Continuous liquid fertilizer use can lead to nutrient runoff. Always follow label instructions to minimize environmental impact and avoid excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering and fruit production. Over-fertilization increases costs, damages roots due to salt buildup, and can harm the plant overall.

Overwintering

While empty plastic containers may seem lightweight, they can become quite heavy when filled with potting mix and plants. A 20-inch diameter container can easily exceed 100 pounds. To make moving these heavy containers easier, consider placing them on rolling platforms. For cold-

hardy plants, overwinter them outdoors in their pots or provide protection in a cold frame. Many hardy perennials, vegetables like collards and kale, and herbs such as bay and rosemary can withstand cold temperatures. If possible, relocate these plants closer to the house or to a sheltered location. Containers holding these plants, as well as those with fruit trees or bushes that overwinter outdoors, may require insulation to protect their roots from freezing. Root damage can occur more easily in containers due to reduced insulation compared to ground planting. To insulate, loosely wrap the container with chicken wire and fill the space between the pot and wire with leaves or straw. Alternatively, use materials like frost blankets, bubble wrap, closed-cell foam (1-inch thick), quilt batting, household insulation, or even blankets. If using quilt batting or household insulation, cover them with plastic to prevent water damage. During overwintering, periodically check the moisture level of the potting mix and water dry containers before a predicted thaw to help protect them from frost damage.

To learn more about container gardening, visit: https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/extension-gardener-handbook/18-plants-grown-in-containers

Our office is an equal opportunity provider, so if you have any questions related to container gardening or other horticulture questions, please contact Kellee Payne at kellee_payne@ncsu.edu or 336-849-7908.

Spring Wreaths & Grave Arrangements New Spring Home Dēcor

BOONVILLE FLOWER & DECOR

Tue, Th, Fri 9-4:00 | Wed, Sat 9-12

us on Facebook

Color Walk:

Inspiration, Engagement, Curiosity, and Growth with Mitchell’s Nursery

There is a particular magic in watching a child’s eyes light up as they discover the world—the simple joys of childhood — bright colors, fresh air, and the gleeful sense of discovery that unfolds with every step. A color walk can engage minds and bodies with the elegance of simplicity. As an avid gardener and observer of all things beautiful, I cherish these small yet profound moments. In our busy modern lives, it’s too easy to overlook the subtleties of color and form surrounding us. Whether strolling through a lush garden, a local park, or even your neighborhood block, a color walk engages mind and body, inviting an appreciation for life right under our noses.

The Anatomy of a Color Walk

Before you venture out, set an intention. Perhaps you’ll focus on one color or choose a rainbow of possibilities, from the deep greens to delicate pinks. If you have little ones accompanying you, it can also be simple and easy for them to participate. Invite them to help select the color or theme of the walk. You could say, “Today, we’re looking for everything red!” imagine their excitement when they spot a bright cardinal perched on a fence or a vibrant rose among leaves. These things may otherwise go unnoticed. Children become investigators on the hunt for hidden treasures, their eyes alight with discovery. Color walks strengthen and rehabilitate essential skills like observation, creativity, and problem-solving. The process of seeking out objects in your environment promotes greater awareness of the world around you, using all your senses.

Equipment for Adventure

While this activity is as simple as possible, a few gentle preparations can make the experience even more special. Outfit young participants in comfortable shoes—practical sneakers will do. Encourage them to bring a small bag or basket, perfect for collecting fallen petals, leaves, or other natural mementos that fit your chosen color. Consider a journal or sketchbook, too. Some children love to draw or paste their found objects once back at home, creating an artful collage of the day’s event. A magnifying glass can also provide the entertainment of looking closer—tiny textures often reveal an unexpected world of shape and color.

Immersing in the Senses

On the walk, be present and use all your senses. The eyes, of course, will search for colors in plants tucked under stones or lining the sidewalk. But do also take time to pause and appreciate the textures of wilderness, the rustling sounds of leaves, and the fragrances of flowers. Notice how the hue shifts in sunlight or appears richer in the shade. If you’ve chosen yellow, you might spot the bright glint of a dandelion, golden marigolds, or even a lemon swirl in a butterfly’s wing. This multi-sensory engagement grounds us in the present, and to mindfulness.

A Teachable Moment

Every color walk is an opportunity to weave in bits of gentle education. When you notice a bright pink blossom, share the

flower's name with your child—perhaps it’s a sweet pea or a begonia. Speak of how it grows, how bees and butterflies are drawn to its petals, or how certain gardens thrive in particular climates. When you spy an orange pumpkin in a neighbor’s patch, It is an opportunity to chat about its growth from seed to harvest—linking colors to the cycles of life and the interplay of plant and pollinator. You’ll be planting seeds of environmental awareness and appreciation alongside those seeds of wonder. Color walks are not just games but can be carefully structured opportunities to nurture growth:

Sharpening Observation Skills- Promotes 'discriminative thinking' distinguishing between shades, textures, and contexts. Growing Motor Skills - Transforms static learning into dynamic exploration: Motion strengthens balance, coordination, awareness, and muscle control.

Sensory Integration - Color walks can engage multiple senses. Sparking Creative and Critical Thinking.

Bringing the Colors Home

Once the walk is complete, take a moment to reflect. Have children empty their collection, arranging their collected items on a table or sheet of paper. If you chose red, perhaps there’s a fallen leaf with a vivid crimson hue, a ribbon on the sidewalk, or even a smooth stone with a subtle red tint. Help them create notes about where each item was found. Perhaps you could keep small flowers between the pages of a favorite gardening book or snap photos along the way. Small keepsakes can help preserve the feeling of exploring nature.

Cultivating a Habit of Wonder

A color walk does not have to be a grand excursion. On your next trip to the grocery store, pause by the floral section. Ask your child if they see a new color they haven’t noticed before or to inspect the pattern of a variegated leaf. If you’re visiting a local park, point out the shades of green in the grass, moss, and ivy. By gently guiding your young companions (and yourself) to tune in, you cultivate a habit of noticing more of reality that instills a sense of gratitude and awareness in everyday wonders.

In this simple activity, you’ll discover how a color walk becomes so much more than a leisurely stroll. It’s an open invitation to connect deeply with our surroundings, connect with others, and tap into that childlike simplicity we sometimes lose touch with in our adulthood.

It’s an experience that combines the joy of exploration with the opportunity of discovery—truly a perfect storm for learning.

Happy hunting!

Home & Garden Mulch Improvements to The Garden

Leslie Rose

WRITER/PHOTOS

Leslie

Rose

Extension Horticulture Agent

Director of the Arboretum at Tanglewood Park leslie_rose@ncsu.edu

Spring is an exciting time in the garden. As temperatures warm, plants and gardeners both perk up. To get your garden off to a healthy start, consider adding mulch. Mulches include a variety of materials placed on the soil surface of a garden. Often, mulch is added for aesthetic value, but it serves many other purposes in the landscape. Mulch helps moderate extreme temperatures, protecting plants from both heat and cold. By optimizing soil temperatures, a layer of mulch improves the survival of new plants in the garden whose roots are not yet developed. Gardens with mulch often need less irrigation and can better survive periods of drought, since mulch helps absorb moisture and prevent water loss from the soil. A layer of mulch applied before seeds germinate helps to suppress annual weeds in the garden. Mulches offer the most weed suppression when applied in a layer that is at least three inches thick. Mulch also reduces erosion and can mitigate soil compaction in gardens with high traffic. At the soil surface, mulch reduces splashing of soil particles during irrigation or rain, which also decreases the movement

of soil-borne pathogens that can lead to plant disease.

When selecting mulch for your garden, you may find the choices overwhelming. Generally, mulches fall into one of three categories: organic, inorganic, and living mulch. Organic mulches are derived from living materials and are some of the most commonly used in the landscape. The popularity of organic mulches is likely due to the fact that as they decompose, they improve the soil by adding nutrients and humus. Bark, wood chips, grass clippings, leaves, pine needles, straw, and shredded hardwood are all examples of organic mulches. When choosing an organic mulch, remember that these materials will break down over time and need to be replenished in the future. Mulches with coarser or larger particles will take longer to decompose and often result in better weed suppression than mulches with smaller particles. Your choice of organic mulch may depend upon what is locally available and the cost, as well as your own aesthetic preferences.

Inorganic mulches include rocks, gravel, rubber,

landscape fabrics, and plastic mulches. Inorganic mulches can help maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds, but they will not improve soil structure or add nutrients. In landscape beds, fabric and plastic mulches are not recommended. Fabrics and plastics require other materials to make them aesthetically pleasing and effective in the landscape; this may include the use of staples or the addition of organic mulches on top of the inorganic materials. Over time, weeds will colonize the top of landscape fabrics. The roots of perennials, especially trees and shrubs, will intertwine with fabrics and be damaged when the fabric is being removed. Thus, inorganic mulches are a better choice for pathways rather than landscaped areas of the garden.

A third category of mulches that is gaining popularity is living mulches. These are groundcover plants that spread to cover the soil. When established, living mulches prevent weeds by eliminating space for them in the garden. However,

groundcovers can compete with other desired plants for resources such as water, nutrients, sunlight, and space in the landscape. A living mulch can be an excellent choice for the edges of landscape beds where other plants may not thrive. There are many groundcovers that grow well in the Piedmont region, but be sure to consider the light availability in your garden when you choose one. Some options include sedums, ice plant (Delosperma), cheddar pinks or sweet William (Dianthus), creeping thyme, and lowgrowing varieties of Verbena.

Early spring, when plants are smaller and some may not have emerged from the soil yet, is an excellent time for mulching your garden. In addition, the temperatures in spring are more agreeable for this task than at other times of the year. Adding mulch to your garden can neaten its appearance and help your plants as they enter this season of new growth. Given even more time, using an organic mulch will lead to healthier soil that supports thriving gardens.

Spring...time to brighten up your yard with new plants and lots of color! At Joe’s we carry... a large selection of tree and shrubs... a complete line of soil amendments... pine needles, mulch and bark... grass seed and fertilizers for yard and shrubbery beds. Don’t miss our Encore Azaleas!

JONESVILLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY SEEKING MEMBERS

Dawn Hardwick & Trevor Hardwick

The Jonesville Historical Society--sponsor of the Jonesville Jubilee, the Yadkin Valley Museum, Inc., the Mineral Springs Veterans Memorial Park—needs your support!

We are a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and rely on the support of our community and visitors. There are many levels of giving and we hope you will join us in preserving our history.

Lifetime Members help make certain the Jonesville Jubilee will be held again, that the Yadkin Valley Museum’s preservation of local and area history will be kept going, and that Mineral Springs Veterans Memorial Park will always remain open.

Dr. Judy Wolfe, former president of the society, first curator of the museum and first director of the Jonesville Jubilee, was instrumental in the establishment of Mineral Springs Historic Park with its eight historic markers. She

Mark your Calendars!

►Monthly BINGO!

created the Yadkin Valley Veterans Monument with railings from the former Hugh Chatham Memorial Bridge that linked Jonesville and Elkin for nearly three decades. Many others have worked over the years to preserve the legacy of the Yadkin Valley area.

Lifetime Members include Dick & Jan Hemric, Lt. Col. J. Keith & Elaine Baker, Wesley & Jean Wright, Virginia Wright Hutchens, Andrew Mackie, Mary Gale Price, Virginia Montgomery Wagoner, Charles Gray Mathis, John Wesley Mathis, Gary York, WIFM, Dr. Judy Wolfe, Jack Ghant, Becky and Terry Wood and Trevor and Dawn Hardwick. Won’t you help us continue this historical legacy?

The museum, also known as the History Center, is located just up from Gwyn McNeil Bridge and across from the River Road entrance leading to Mineral Springs Historic Park and the Veterans Monument.

Membership Opportunities:

Members: $1-$99

GEMs – “Give Every Month” recurring donations $20 per month

Patrons: $100-$499

Lifetime Members contribute $500 or more in cash or property.

Ambassadors: $1,000 may be honored with a personalized bench in Mineral Springs Veterans Memorial Park. Legacy Sustainers: $5,000- $10,000+ may be honored with a picnic table at the Yadkin Valley Museum. Donations are tax-deductible.

A donation by check should be made out to Jonesville Historical Society. The society address is the same as the museum: 458 West Main Street, Jonesville, NC 28642.

Monthly Bingo to benefit the museum and park. Check out our Facebook page, “The Jonesville History Center” for details!

►Jonesville Jubilee 2025 – May 3, 2025, at Lila Swaim Park

►Jonesville Trail Days- June 5-8 Join us at the museum for the Daniel Boone Experience!

For more information contact Trevor Hardwick at 336 428 2176 or trevcolehard@gmail.com

Trail Life USA troop 357 in Jonesville has adopted the Mineral Springs Veterans Memorial Park as a service project. Scouts and their leaders have picked up trash and debris from the park and placed flags in the park on Veteran’s Day to honor our service people. They plan to continue their efforts to help us restore the park. If you would like to help, please contact Joel Jones at 336 483 4907.

Aerial photo of the park by Joel Jones.

CLOSING SALE

Largest

Offering

Medical

Supplies and Equipment

Bathroom Aids & Safety

Sanitation and Deodorizers

Beds & Accessories

Braces, Splints & Slings

Custom Fit Compression Garments

Daily Living Aids

Health Monitors

Mobility Aids & Equipment

Occupational & Physical Therapy Aids

Surgical Supplies Just

Manual Wheelchairs Hospital Beds

Electric Scooters Knee Walkers Lift Chairs

Hospital Medical Supplies

Home Medical Equipment

Discount Medical Supplies

Wound Care Products

Gloves, Nebulizer, Bariatric Equipment

Bathroom Safety Aids, Orthopedic Products, Ostomy Supplies

Respiratory, Urological/Catheters

Walking Aids & Wheelchairs

Late Bloomers Flower Farm near Elkin may have been a later-in-life venture for sisters Barbara Cason and Stacey Sikes, but clearly the timing was right for them. The two grew up in rural Wake County, and after traveling through the Yadkin Valley to visit Tweetsie when her kids were small, Barbara realized that she wanted to raise her kids in a rural area, too. Since that was difficult to find in Wake County, she and her husband moved to the Elkin area twenty years ago. Her younger sister, Stacy Sikes, followed fifteen years later after her husband’s retirement. In 2019, deciding to try a flower farm to make use of the farmland they owned, the sisters began planning and planting. To have tulips in March, bulbs had to be planted in the fall. March 2020 was not an ideal time to launch a new business, but the COVID-19 pandemic actually worked in favor of the Late Bloomers. People quickly tired of the restrictions that kept them at home and were ready to visit the farm-and its wide open spaces-to pick flowers. Following the tulips, the sisters began to figure out what flowers they could grow and which ones were most profitable.

Besides bulbs like tulips, Barbara and Stacy grow native plants when possible. Native wildflowers are popular for bouquets. Some plants come back year after year, but many have to be sown each spring, or dug up, stored for the winter, and replanted when the ground begins to warm. Some are started in their greenhouse and transplanted, while others are sown directly into the ground. Seeds can be saved from some flowers, while others have to be purchased each year. Growing flowers requires many hands-on hours of planting, cultivating, weeding, and harvesting. Some flowers have to be

protected from deer with fences, though the sisters plant some areas to entice wildlife to other areas and make the flowers less attractive to them.

Beginning with tulips and continuing until fall requires a huge variety of flowers. Peonies, dahlias, and sunflowers probably aren’t a surprise on a flower farm. Cotton, though? Grown not for its fibers, but instead as a “filler” for bouquets, this plant seems a little out of place in the foothills of North Carolina. Barbara and Stacy have experimented with many plants, and going into their sixth growing season, seem to have figured out what works for them. Visitors to the farm can pick their own flowers. If you can’t make it out to the farm, flowers are also available at the weekly Elkin Farmer’s Market. If you want to give the gift of flowers to someone, Late Bloomers offers a Petal Passport, which provides seven bouquets throughout the growing season at the convenience of the passport holder.

Some of the additions to the flower farm were well-planned, such as the lavender. Difficult to grow in clay soil, they had to learn how to work around that to grow the perennial successfully. Honey bees, on the other hand, were only supposed to help with pollination of the flowers, however the honey that their hives produce has become a valued item for their customers.

While selling flowers is their main goal, they also offer field trips for school groups and Sunday school groups to tell them about the magic in growing flowers. They share lessons on growing flowers, saving seeds, the purpose of some of their flowers, and life cycles. Because flowers aren’t just pretty, they also have a purpose! They share

Photo by Ashley Blackburn

uses of their plants beyond looking pretty in a vase. Lavender syrup and lavender-infused honey, are popular items created from the lavender that they grow. As the flower season draws to a close, dried flower arrangements are also available.

For the upcoming 2025 Tulip Affair, Late Bloomers planted 20,000 bulbs last fall. Be sure to make plans to visit soon to see the beautiful display, and all summer for a great variety of flowers!

To keep up with their happenings and events, be sure to follow their Facebook Page at Late Bloomers Flower Farm or on Instagram @latebloomersflowersfarm. Visit their website: latebloomersflowers.com.

*Buy a Liberty Safe and receive Liberty's #1 rated lifetime warranty, unmatched in the home safe industry. If your home, ofﬁce, or gun safe ever experiences an attempted break-in or a ﬁre, Liberty will repair or replace your safe for FREE. And that's for as long as you own your gun safe. Liberty's lifetime warranty is even transferable! Now that's peace of mind. Our goal is to make sure you're happy with your safe for as long as you own it. See

Reduce, Reuse, THEN Recycle: Earth Day 2025

In last year’s March/April issue, I had the chance to introduce you to Earth Day. To recap, it was introduced in 1970, post-California Oil Spill in 1969. I went to school for the Earth (environmental science), I feel that is it my job and my reason for existing to protect the Earth. (Like how Ken’s job is beach, my job is Earth. Any fans of the Barbie movie out there?) So I’m back to share some more ideas on how you can help me protect the Earth, on Earth Day and all year long.

1. Check local organizations & parks- see if anyone is hosting a trash clean-up near you & participate. Even if there are no organized clean-ups, go for a walk somewhere & take gloves & a trash bag with you. I would bet you can find plenty of trash in a short walk.

Something else you can do online is the “Leave No Trace Principles.” There’s a short “class” you can do for free online & gain knowledge on how to best treat the Earth when enjoying what she has to offer!

2. Check out local refuges, parks, & public lands to see if you can be a volunteer. A lot of visitor’s centers are running on volunteers or they have projects that need to be done around the park or lands that the paid staff just doesn’t have time to do. This could be staffing a visitor’s center, repairing a boardwalk, or even helping plant native plants. There are lots of places that support the Earth that run on volunteers. Check out the National Park’s website first, then go from there!

3. Call the local schools, daycares, or nursing homes when you’re cleaning out a closet. Maybe you have a bunch of old magazines you need to get rid of, maybe you’ve been holding onto old YVM issues? A nursing home can use them for their residents, or schools can use them for art projects. This leans into the new saying of Reduce, Reuse, then Recycle!

4. Reduce, Reuse, then Recycle?

Reduce- if you are picking up food from your local restaurant to take home and they offer disposable utensils, say no thank you! That’s a few less plastic forks and spoons that need to be thrown away.

Reuse- If you do need the plastic spoon and fork, wash it a few times, it won’t hurt anything. Use it for the next week, maybe leave it in your lunchbox or somewhere at work and throw it away (or recycle) it once you’ve used it a few times.

Then Recycle- Unfortunately, it’s come to light that most things aren’t actually recycled, even if you clean them and remove the stuff that can’t be recycled. For most towns, it’s more costly for them to take the time to actually get things recycled. So if you have to get rid of something, see if there is another place that can take recycling. Schools often have Can-Do recycling in their parking lots and the schools get money from the aluminum!

Rebecca Williams

Earth Day is often celebrated with rallies, conferences, school projects, and other organized gatherings. Start your volunteering on Earth Day! Earth Day has a theme, something I didn’t even know! The theme for 2025 is Our Power, Our Planet. earthday.org has great resources & ways other get involved this year. Stay tuned to the YVM social media pages where we will share local events!

For more information, check out earthday.org.

Bear Creek BBQ Food Truck on site

2 pm - 6 pm

2025 SPONSORS

Hugh Chatham Health

Workforce Unlimited

Skyline National Bank

Gentry Family Funeral Home

Unifi

Shallow Ford Foundation

Surry Community College

Join the Yadkin Chamber of Commerce for the 2025 Showcase Yadkin Business Expo! Held at the Agricultural Building Banquet Facility at the Yadkin Center, this year’s Expo will feature more than twentyfive vendors. Come learn more about the businesses in this area and the services they provide. The event is free! Visit all of the vendor booths to be registered for great door prizes!

Yadkin Soil & Water

Natural Resource Conservation Service

Live Like Norah Foundation

UNIFI

Flower Shop

The Rotary Club of Mount Airy in cooperation with the Department of Tourism & the Mount Airy Downtown Business Association presents the 13th Annual Budbreak Wine and Craft Beer Festival a family-friendly welcoming event for lovers of music, food, wine, beer and friends

Saturday, May 3, 2025 12:00 to 5:00 pm Main Street & Independence Blvd. Downtown Mount Airy, NC

The 2025 Budbreak Wine and Craft Beer Festival will be held on Saturday, May 3th of 2025 in beautiful downtown Mount Airy, NC. The festival features top North Carolina wineries and craft beer producers, wonderful food and great music.

Tim Elliot on stage from 2:30-5:00! Enjoy Friends, Foods, NC Wines & Beers while raising money for good works

Wine & Beer Tasting Tickets ($25.00) (plus fees) commemorative wine glass for tasting wine and craft breweries from 15+ wine and craft beer vendors. ($35 day of event.)

General Admission Non-Tasting Tickets ($5.00) gets you access to the festival which includes the music and food providers. Note: Children 12 and under are free with a paid adult.

On the Cover

because A River Runs Through It

All rivers have humble beginnings, from the Nile to the mighty Mississippi to our own Yadkin River. Without the river, there would not be a Yadkin Valley, so recently my brother Landon and I set out on a surprisingly nice February Sunday to find the beginning of the Yadkin River. Or as close as we could get.

As a surveyor, Landon’s interest is in the land where water first trickles from the ground and begins to flow downhill. Officially, that spot is in Watauga County, near Blowing Rock. We didn’t quite make it that far-private property and all that-but we got fairly close. At the farthest point upstream where we could access the river, I could have easily stepped across it without getting my feet wet. So is the beginning of the Yadkin River. Joined by other streams and creeks, it widens and wanders into Caldwell County. We stopped at several spots along the river itself, as well as some points of interest. I hate to admit that it was my first visit to most of them, despite living so close.

If Landon’s interest lies with the land itself, mine is more in the stories of what happened on that land and so begins a journey down the river for Yadkin Valley Magazine. Though Caldwell County is not typically considered part of the Yadkin Valley, the Yadkin River most certainly flows through it. Below are a few sites that we visited, and a little information about them.

In upcoming issues, I will continue to head downstream, sharing stories of significant locations and events-both historic and contemporary-along the Yadkin River. Our beloved Yadkin Valley, after all, does exist because a river runs through it.

I remember singing “Hang down your head, Tom Dooley” in elementary school, and the basic story of the Wilkes County man who was hanged for murder. The Wilkes County jail where he was held was part of a long ago field trip. Beyond the headstone marking his Wilkes County grave, the bottomland along the Yadkin River is visible, with the river itself at the second tree line in the distance.

Just a short distance up Highway 268 after we crossed into Caldwell County, we stopped at the marker beside the road as well as nearby the gravesite of Laura Foster, the young woman murdered, presumably by Tom Dula. The grave is enclosed by a white wooden fence inside a cow pasture, but can be seen from the road. Again, in the background of the photo, bottomland along the Yadkin River is visible.

Fort Defiance, the 18th century home of General William Lenoir, overlooks the Yadkin River. Not a fort itself, Lenoir’s home was named for the fort that stood nearby in the late 1700s.

From a distance...the Yadkin Valley as viewed from the Blue Ridge Parkway near Blowing Rock, where it all begins.

Landon Wagoner, standing in the Yadkin River in Caldwell County

Photo courtesy of Dylan Hazelwood, Wild By Nature Art Co.

The Yadkin and Uwharrie Rivers join to form the PeeDee River before flowing across South Carolina to the Atlantic Ocean.

What IS That?

The next two correct entries drawn win a copy of our One Last Sweet Bite Cookbook.

Enter by postcard, letter or email, be sure to include your: name, PHYSICAL MAILING ADDRESS and guess. And if you’d like, tell us about your experiences using or collecting this item. Entries must be received no later than 4/17/25, Winner will be drawn 4/18/25. The winners will be notified by mail and announced in the May/June 2025 issue. All entries become the property of Yadkin Valley Magazine. Turn to page 90 to read about the Jan-Feb contest.

Mail your guess to: “What is That Contest” Yadkin Valley Magazine PO Box 2077 • Yadkinville, NC 27055 or e-mail: yadkinvalleymagazine@gmail.com. You can also enter on-line at: yadkinvalleymagazine.com

an heirloom that will last a lifetime

Bulova • Hermle

Howard Miller

Why should you buy your new Grandfather Clock from Oldtown Clock Shop & Repair?

Our clocks are under factory warranty and we do the warranty work

We deliver your new clock for FREE

We “set up” your clock in your home or business

We offer a full service department

And even after offering all those extras that others don’t…

Our prices are very competitive!

January-February 2025 Winner

The January-February What IS That? item is a swing-top glass bottle stopper. Yes, I did have to look it up to find an official name. I remember using them on 16 ounce Pepsi bottles when I was a kid. Apparently they are often used on wine bottles as well, according to several readers. So, whatever you called it, if you made it clear what the intended use was, your name was entered into the drawing. Winners for this item are: first drawn prize of $100 to Glenda Dodson of Sandy Ridge, and a copy of One Last Sweet Bite for the second and third drawn names goes to Glenda Mears of Mount Airy and Janice Mayes of Dobson. Congratulations! We carry Howard Cleaning ProductsGreat for

Thanks to Sandra Overby and her mom, Barbara Gentry, for sharing the bottle stopper photos with us!

Please be sure to include your name and physical mailing address with your entries. You cannot be the winner if I don’t know how to send a prize to you!

March 29th - 10am to 4 pm

The Business Section

Don’t Lose Track of Financial Accounts

For years, people save and invest in 401(k) plans, IRAs and other financial accounts. They wouldn’t lose track of this money, would they?

You might be surprised. About 1 in 7 people has unclaimed cash or property, totaling billions of dollars, according to the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators.

People lose track of their money for a variety of reasons: They change jobs and forget about their retirement accounts; they move and leave no forwarding address; they change names and don’t notify former employers; or their employers go out of business or merge with another company.

Whatever the reason, losing tabs on accounts that could be worth thousands of dollars is never a good thing. What can you do to avoid suffering this type of loss?

Here are a few suggestions: Maintain good records. Keep records of all your financial, investment and retirement accounts — and let a family member know where these records are kept. Keep a manageable number of financial accounts. The fewer bank and brokerage accounts you have, the easier it will be to keep track of everything. You might even want to consolidate accounts when possible. Report your change of address. Whenever you move, contact your financial services providers and any former employers with whom you may have retirement accounts. Report name changes. If you change your name, notify new and old 401(k) plan administrators, banks, brokerages and any other institution connected to your money. Manage retirement accounts when you change jobs. If you leave your job, you might be able to leave your 401(k) behind with your old employer. But if you do, keep track of it. On the other hand, you could roll your old plan into your new employer’s plan or into an IRA.

Inform your financial professional about all your accounts. If you work with a financial professional, they can help you track your accounts, so inform them of all past and present IRAs and 401(k)s or similar employersponsored plans.

So far, we’ve looked at ways you can prevent losing track of financial accounts. But can you do anything if you suspect you’ve already left some money behind?

If you think you’ve lost tabs on an IRA, you can check old tax returns and bank statements to help you track your contributions and find the name of the financial provider that held your account. If it’s a 401(k), you can contact your old employer’s plan administrator.

You can get some help from other sources, too. The Department of Labor recently launched a retirement savings lost-and-found database (lostandfound.dol.gov) that can help you find pension or 401(k) plans connected to your Social Security number. For a stray IRA, you can check unclaimed.org, the website of the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators. And for various other sources of money — including uncashed checks from corporations and financial institutions, inactive brokerage accounts and unclaimed safe deposit boxes — you can check MissingMoney.com, the unclaimed property website of the National Association of State Treasurers.

These sites offer no guarantees of finding your lost or missing accounts or other sources of money, so you still may have to do your own sleuthing. But as the old saying goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” — which, in this case, means you’ll help yourself greatly by tracking your accounts from beginning to end.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Paul J. Bunke, Sr., AAMS™, CFP®

Financial Advisor

124 W. Kapp Street, Suite C PO Box 407 Dobson, NC 27017

336-386-0846

paul.bunke@edwardjones.com

Audra Cox, ABFP ™

Financial Advisor

715 S Main St, Suite B Dobson, NC 27017

336-569-7385 • 844-795-3462

audra.cox@edwardjones.com

Frank H. Beals

Financial Advisor 965 North Bridge Street Elkin, NC 28621

336-835-4411

frank.beals@edwardjones.com

Timothy Johnson

Financial Advisor

116 E. Market St. Elkin, NC 28621

336-835-1124

timothy.johnson@edwardjones.com

Nathan Sturgill

Financial Advisor

116 E Market Street

Elkin, NC 28621

336-835-1124

nathan.sturgill@edwardjones.com

Aaron L. Misenheimer, CFP®, ChFC®

Financial Advisor

1530 NC Hwy 67, Suite A

Jonesville, NC 28642

336-258-2821

aaron.misenheimer@edwardjones.com

Andi Draughn Schnuck

Financial Advisor

496 N. Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-789-1707

andi.schnuck@edwardjones.com

Dale Draughn, AAMS™

Financial Advisor

140 Franklin Street Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-789-0136

dale.draughn@edwardjones.com

Logan Draughn

Financial Advisor

492 N. Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-789-3323

logan.draughn@edwardjones.com

Kody Easter, AAMS™, CRPC™, CFP®

Financial Advisor

304 East Independence Blvd Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-789-2079

kody.easter@edwardjones.com

Randy D. Joyce

Financial Advisor

136 W. Lebanon Street Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-789-6238

randy.joyce@edwardjones.com

Tammy H. Joyce, AAMS™ Financial Advisor

136 W. Lebanon Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-789-6238

tammy.joyce@edwardjones.com

Tanner Joyce

Financial Advisor

752 S. Andy Griffith Pkwy, Suite 400 Mount Airy, NC 27030

336-245-9112

tanner.joyce@edwardjones.com

Mike Russell

Financial Advisor

106-B South Depot Street, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041 336-368-2575

mike.t.russell@edwardjones.com

Tiffany L. Smith

106-B South Depot Stree Pilot Mountain, NC 27041 336-368-2575

tiffany.l.smith@edwardjones.com

Michael Warren, WMCP®

Financial Advisor

101-D Shoals Road, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041

336-368-0782

michael.warren@edwardjones.com

Christopher L. Funk

Financial Advisor

128 South State Street • PO Box 790 Yadkinville, NC 27055 • 336-679-2192

chris.funk@edwardjones.com

Left to right: Tanner Joyce, Paul Bunke, Logan Draughn, Andi Draughn Schunck, Frank Beals, Christopher Funk, Tiffany Smith, Dale Draughn, Nathan Sturgill, Michael Warren, Aaron Misenheimer, Kody Easter, Tim Johnson, Audra Cox and Randy Joyce Not Pictured: Tammy Joyce

Regional Reach Local Impact

If you’d like to learn more about advertising with us contact: Leah Williams 336-961-2620 yadkinvalleymagazine@gmail.com

Deadline for advertising in May-June Magazine is March 28 Distribution Counties near Yadkin River in Northwest North Carolina Western Forsyth • Davie • Surry Stokes • Northern Davidson Wilkes • Yadkin • Northern Iredell (core distribution highlighted)

turing to the inside front cover in this issue!

Closing Devotions

Spring: A Time of New Beginnings

The butterfly is a popular symbol for Easter. A butterfly doesn’t begin its journey as a butterfly. It starts as a caterpillar, moves through a transformational stage in the cocoon, and finally emerges as the butterfly. How many of us live our whole lives as a caterpillar when we could be a butterfly? There is nothing wrong with a caterpillar, however, a butterfly has so much more potential. Do you find yourself crawling around like a caterpillar eating leaves when you could be soaring like a butterfly, enjoying the most beautiful flowers, and drinking delicious nectar? Are you living to your potential?

So if we find ourselves living like a caterpillar today, how do we become butterflies? You cannot go from the caterpillar to the butterfly without the cocoon. Too often we want to skip the part where we have to give up control and die to ourselves. That doesn’t sound like fun. We still want to be in charge, and we want to be the butterfly. However, you can’t have it both ways. Only by dying to your caterpillar self are you finally able to be transformed into a butterfly. For most of us, we have to repeat this process over and over again. What do you need to release today in order to be open to the new life found in Christ? I imagine Jesus would have preferred to skip the cross and the tomb. It would have been much nicer for him if he could have gone straight to heaven, perhaps flying off in a golden chariot like Elijah. But that was not God’s plan. Jesus needed to defeat death forever. The only way to do that was to face death and come out alive. He needed to do this so that we too could experience the resurrection of eternal life. He invites all Christians to live as people of the resurrection.

I invite us to imagine what we need to bloom as our true selves in Christ. This Spring, we will watch the world transform from the stillness of winter to the life of Spring. Flowers will bloom, trees will bud, and a million shades of

green will sprout everywhere. What is holding us back from bursting with life and being the people God called us to be? Where are we choosing hatred or bitterness instead of love? Where can we show more gratitude and generosity? Where can we help our neighbor or our enemy? What are the parts of ourselves that we need to let go of so we can be transformed in Christ? There is a butterfly waiting to emerge in all of us.

There is a wonderful promise that if we let go of our selfish selves and live for Christ, we are invited to participate in the resurrection. Not just the new life found in eternal life after our death, but resurrection in our life now. We are able to live a life where God’s love flows through us into the world. Where our wants and needs are replaced by Jesus’ desires. We are able to fly away from the guilt or anger and learn how to forgive. We can learn how to want what is best for others more than what we want for ourselves.

Easter opens up for us a new future. A future beyond anything we could have imagined. Don’t look at a caterpillar and think that is the end of his story. There is a whole transformation awaiting it. May God help us to release what is holding us back so we can emerge anew in God’s image.

Rev. Dr. Heather Kilbourne spends her days helping rural churches dream God-sized dreams for their communities. She is the founder and Director of Faith in Rural Communities at the NC Rural Center. She is an ordained minister in the United Methodist Church and served churches in Yadkin and Burke Counties. She can be reached at hkilbourne@ncruralcenter.org.

Care South, Inc. is a locally owned and respected agency that has provided more than 20 years of In-Home Aide Care to individuals who require assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).

To inquire about services for you or a family member or employment opportunities for:

In-Home Aides, Certified Nursing Assistants (C.N.A), and Personal Care Assistants (P.C.A), please contact us at:

Mission

To deliver exceptional Personal Care Services (PCS), allowing the client to live safely and comfortably in their own home and to provide leadership in which employees have faith and conﬁdence.

What Programs are Provided through the Agency?

• Community Alternative Program for adults (CAP/DA)

• Personal Care Services (PCS)

• Veterans Administration (VA)

• Temporary or Long-term Care

• Chore Respite

• Private pay

Summary of the Service Provided:

• Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) (i.e., eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, mobility, and grooming)

• Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (iADLs) (i.e., light housekeeping, meal prep)

Practices and Staff:

• Licensed and bonded in North Carolina.

• RN Supervisor conducts quarterly visits to the home.

• CPR Instructor

• Stafﬁng Coordinators provide 24/7 On-Call Services.

• Caregivers complete monthly in-services, maintain C.P.R., and perform skills competency veriﬁcation by the R.N.

• Comprehensive background investigation of all caregivers (i.e., criminal background)

• Quality Assurance Program