Issuu

January-February 2026

Comfort Foods

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What Makes a real Moravian Cookie?

photo by Tim Coffey

"Always look for my name and my picture on your Moravian cookies!" If the label says, "Mrs. Hanes" then your Moravian Cookies are authentically Hand-Rolled, Hand-Cut, Hand-Packed. Only our bakery can make that promise. Coming to see our cookies being Hand-Rolled, Hand-Cut, and Hand-Packed has become a tradition for so many families. We invite you to visit our cookie factory and start your very own family tradition.

Evva Hanes When you visit the bakery, be sure to purchase your copy of Mrs. Hanes’ inspirational life story!

MONDAY–FRIDAY 7–5, SATURDAY 9–2 (come before 2 pm, MONDAY–FRIDAY if you want to watch our bakers roll)

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We make our delicious cookies in ginger, sugar, lemon, black walnut, chocolate and butterscotch

Economically priced small and large cellophane bags are available for bakery pick-up. You can also call ahead and place your order and we will have it ready and waiting. NC Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookies 4643 Friedberg Church Rd • Clemmons, NC

January-February 2026

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CONTENTS foodsandflavors

22 Comfort Foods 24 Puppy Love 28 Stronger by the Dozen 36 Health Benefits of Tea

Home, Lawn & Garden

42 Prime Time Planning: Your Winter Garden To-Do List 44 Color and Life in the Winter Landscape 48 Process of Composting & Edging Your Garden 67 Are You Interested in Becoming a Beekeeper?

People, Places, Events

40 The Backbone of 4-H: Volunteers 54 Yadkin River Bridges Linking Elkin & Jonesville 56 The Covered Bridge, 1872-1913 57 Remembering the Siloam Bridge Collapse 58 Bear Creek Candy Kitchen-A Sweet Spot in Mount Airy 64 Mount Airy Museum of Regional HistoryTruck & Train Exhibits

Yadkin Valley Readers & Writers 60 Book Reviews 61 Book Club News 62 Library Celebrations & Author Events 63 Homeschooling 65 Trains: A Writing Contest

Wellness

38 Safe Child Care

In Every Issue

14 Recipe Box 18 Editor’s Letter 20 Beginnings 32 On the Cover 50 Living Low Waste 54-57 A River Runs Through It 78 100th Birthdays 80 What Is That? 84-85 Pet Pics 86 Business Section 89 Closing Devotions

January-February 2026

Throughout this issue, you’ll find a wealth of fun discoveries to fill your Yadkin Valley Weekends. Visit yadkinvalleymagazine.com and sign up to receive a free weekly email with suggestions for fun ways to visit a special event or make a special memory. 10

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Inside YVM

TERMITE • PEST CONTROL AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT

page 57

page 64

page 56

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL ANTS • BEES • RATS • MICE • COCKROACHES

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January-February 2026

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And our Clemmons location...

Clemmons Milling Co. 4010 Hampton Road, Clemmons 336-766-6871 M-F 8-5 • Sat 8-1

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Tree Trimming & Pruning Stump Grinding & Removal Tree Removal

FULLY INSURED Local & Family-Owned Since 1981 44 Years of Residential & Commercial Tree Care Free Estimates-Request One Online Satisfaction Guaranteed! 12

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

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.

Member SIPC

Retirement Plan Options

Business Retirement Plans

Individual Retirement Accounts

Education Savings Strategies Insurance

Portfolio and Retirement Plan Reviews

Fixed Income Investments

FINANCIAL ADVISORS Mount Airy

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

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

Audra Cox, ABFP ™

Dale Draughn, AAMS™

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

140 Franklin Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-789-0136 dale.draughn@edwardjones.com

Elkin

Logan Draughn

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

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

Jonesville

Aaron L. Misenheimer, CFP®, ChFC® 1530 NC Hwy 67, Suite A Jonesville, NC 28642 336-258-2821 aaron.misenheimer@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

Pilot Mountain 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

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

edwardjones.com Member SIPC

foodsandflavors™ Recipe Box 28 Banana Walnut Scramble Oats 29 Chicken and Veggie Rice Bowls 35 Chicken Gnocchi Soup 32 Chocolate Gravy 26 Crock Pot Beef Stew 27 Easy Pecan Pie 23 Gluten Free Turkey Meatloaf 34 Hazel Casstevens’ Family Chicken Pie 36 Homemade Russian Tea (Sugar Free) 30 Lemon Brownie Bars 18 Potato Chowder 25 Salmon Chowder

Hardwood Furniture All Crafted by the Amish In Stock Furniture Custom Design Available very Deli ble! ila Ava

607 S. Main Street, King, NC 336.985.8109 barnstar59@gmail.com www.barnstarnc.com

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MADE in the USA

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.

We offer: Short Term Rehab • Respite Care Skilled Nursing – Long Term and Short Term • Independent Apartments • Offering in-patient & Out-patient therapy Our Physical It’s 2,400 sq ft of helping patients reach their full potential with kitchen, bedroom Therapy Wing & bath set-ups, so patients can practice preparing meals, bathing, getting in & out has so much to 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. offer Our Administrative Staff strives to create a family environment throughout our facility. Elizabeth Lockett Administrator DeAnna Johnson Dietary Manager

Wendy Hutchens, RN Director of Nursing

Candy Crissmon Household Supervisor

G. W. Kearney Social Worker

Joe Danforth Maintenance Supervisor

Tammy Johnson Office Manager

Where kind hearts welcome you Yadkin Nursing Care and Rehab Center 903 West Main Street • Yadkinville • (336) 679-8863 Call Crystal Watkins to schedule a visit. Now a part of Wilmington, North Carolina’s Liberty Healthcare. This well known, well respected partner brings new resources and years of experience to providing our residents only the best in care.

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.

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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 yadkinvalleymagazine@gmail .com January-February 2026 Volume 26 Number 3

Naturally Wholesome Products

PUBLISHER Leah Wagoner Williams ASSISTANT EDITORS Victoria Williams Rebecca Williams ADVERTISING SALES Leah Wagoner Williams Ken & Denise Knight Barbara Collins CONTRIBUTING WRITERS 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 Gray & Amber Harris Ken & Denise Knight Michael Scott Isaac Williams Mark Williams Rebecca Williams

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a line from leah

Trying out a YVM recipe? Be sure to tag us on social media if you post a picture!

As this issue heads to the printer, the calendar may still say fall, but it certainly seems winter has arrived in the Yadkin Valley! I hope that your new year has started out cozy and that you can warm up with some of the comfort foods shared on these pages. For me, a bowl of hot soup hits the spot, and potatoes are one of my favorite foods. My great-grandmother, Mama Brown, made the best stewed potatoes and they were on her table for every meal when I was a little girl. I remember my cousin Beth eating them cold out of the refrigerator! No wonder the Potato Chowder below is one of my favorites. I don’t measure; so you can adjust ingredients to make a little or a lot. I hope that if you try it you find someone to share it with. Maybe that is what brings the comfortsharing a meal with someone, not the food itself. I always appreciate the recipes shared by regular contributors, but in this issue there are a couple of “guest contributors”, so I hope that you will give their recipes a try on pages 27 and 32. Whether you are trying healthier recipes in the new year, or you want something rich and sweet, there are great options for everyone. The series of articles about the Yadkin River is back in this issue after a break last time. I originally thought there might be 5 or 6 articles in the series, but readers keep sharing ideas for more, so we will keep on sharing them. Wishing the Yadkin Valley all the best in 2026!

Potato Chowder Cook potatoes (with carrots, onions, and celery optional) in chicken broth until tender. Mash vegetables into smaller chunks. Add a splash of vinegar (you can’t taste it, but it’s not as good without it). Mix about a tablespoon of flour with about a half cup of milk. You may need more if it is a big pot! Stir into the soup to thicken it. Top with cheese, bacon bits, green onion or whatever you like!

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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.

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beginnings with June Rollins

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

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Making Room for the New I’m not keeping one of my longstanding New Year’s resolutions this year. I’m not being lazy and I’m not depressed. But I am turning seventy in April and I’m losing interest in entering art competitions. For years I’ve religiously painted for and entered multiple shows. Initially, I was seeking affirmation, I wanted a judge’s stamp of approval. I needed validation before I felt qualified to teach. Somewhere along the way, entering became more sport. A bit obsessive. Even addictive. I’ve had a year in retirement to soul search what’s important in this third, third of my life. Another gold star? Another ribbon? Another notch in my belt? These aren’t the carrots on the end of the stick they once were. I have nothing but admiration for those who enter art competitions. In local non-juried shows all entries are accepted. Everyone has a sense of accomplishment seeing their work on the walls opening night and a select few may receive special recognition and prize money. Juried shows at state, regional and national levels require a thicker skin. Not every work of art that’s entered is accepted. In some cases, there are so many artists competing, only a small percentage of entries get in, but there are considerably more recognition awards and much bigger cash prizes. I know the amount of determination, effort, hours, and money required to compete in guild society annual competitions. Acceptance is the ultimate high. Rejection, a crushing blow. Only to pick oneself up and persevere. The saying goes, Different judge, different results, try again next year. But this year, I’m placing this all-encompassing time-consuming passion on the back burner. I’m not saying, never again. I am saying, probably not this year. I’ve let two entry deadlines pass by as I write this column. Over the past twenty-five years participating in judged competitions made me a better artist and I’m deeply grateful to have earned two signature memberships. The acknowledgment bolstered my confidence and affirmed my artistic talent. But these days, I’m reminded of the quote attributed to John D. Rockefeller, who, when asked how much money is enough, replied, "Just a little bit more”. How many acceptances into juried art shows is enough? I’m wondering if what began as beneficial was beginning to morph into something counterproductive. Something insatiable and not about art at all. Like clearing out once-prized possessions that no longer satisfy, I’m rearranging priorities and making room for the new. Wishing all insightful beginnings in the New Year, June

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January-February 2026

foodsandflavors ™~ with Chelsea Johnson

Family & Consumer Sciences Agent N.C. Cooperative Extension Yadkin County Center Cooperative Extension Chelsea_Johnson@ncsu.edu Follow along on Facebook @YadkinCountyFCS

Comfort Foods Comfort foods hold a special place in our hearts and homes, often evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth. These dishes, typically rich and hearty, can provide a sense of security and happiness. When we think of comfort foods, we often imagine flavors and smells that remind us of home cooking, family gatherings, or fond memories. Beyond just their taste, comfort foods often have a cultural significance. Each region or family may have its own unique recipes that have been passed down through generations, making them an integral part of our cultural identity. Whether it's a bowl of chicken noodle soup on a sick day or a slice of lasagna during a holiday gathering, these foods remind us of love and care. Cooking and sharing comfort foods can also be a way to connect with others. The act of preparing a meal for someone else, or enjoying a dish together, creates bonds and fosters a sense of community. With the hustle and bustle of daily life, taking time to prepare or savor these beloved dishes can be a form of self-care and a reminder to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Here are some strategies to transform your favorite dishes into healthier versions without sacrificing taste: Ingredient Swaps: Start by substituting lower-calorie or more nutritious ingredients for traditional ones. For instance, use whole grain pasta instead of white pasta for lasagna or mac and cheese. Incorporate More Vegetables: Adding veggies not only boosts the nutritional profile but also enhances the flavor and texture of your dish. For example, you can sneak spinach, kale, or zucchini into casseroles or soups. Lean Proteins: Choose lean cuts of meat or plant-based proteins to keep your meals flavorful yet lighter. For chili, consider using ground turkey or lentils instead of higher-fat beef. Mindful Portions: Comfort foods are often served in generous portions. Simply being mindful of serving sizes can help control caloric intake. Healthy Cooking Techniques: Instead of frying, opt for baking, grilling, steaming, or sautéing your ingredients. These methods can reduce unnecessary fats while preserving the integrity of the flavors. Flavor Boosters: Use herbs, spices, and citrus to add depth of flavor without extra calories. Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or parsley can enliven a dish, while spices such as paprika or cumin can create a rich taste. Check out this recipe for a healthier spin on a comfort food favorite.

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https://www.chefdenise.com/all/best-healthy-comfort-food-recipes

Gluten-Free Turkey Meatloaf Servings: 8

Ingredients: Meatloaf Sauce ½ cup ketchup 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Meatloaf 5 whole eggs ½ cup ketchup 2 tablespoons gluten-free Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons chili powder 1½ teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1½ cups onion, minced or processed ¾ cup carrot, minced or processed 1½ cups quick-cooking gluten-free oats 2 pounds lean ground turkey 1 recipe meatloaf sauce (see above)

Instructions 1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. 2. Add ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the large bowl, and whisk well. 3. Stir in onions and carrots. 4. Add oats, stir, and let sit for at least 10 minutes. 5. Add in turkey, and thoroughly mix all ingredients together. 6. Let the meat mixture sit another 30 minutes in the refrigerator. During this time, heat your oven to 350°, and prepare your baking sheet or loaf pans. For easy clean up, line two sheet pans with parchment paper or aluminum foil and then spray with olive oil cooking spray. 7. Divide the meatloaf mixture in two. Form two loaves of identical shape and size on your sheet pans. To avoid dry ends, make sure each loaf shape has flat rather than pointy ends. 8. Bake for 30 minutes. 9. Take out of the oven and brush the top of the meatloaves with meatloaf sauce. Return loaves to the oven. 10. Bake another 15 minutes until the internal temperature of your meatloaves is 165°. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut a loaf in the center and make sure it is cooked through. 11. Once you’re certain the meatloaves are cooked through, let them rest 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to serve.

January-February 2026

foodsandflavors ™~ with Carmen Long

Family & Consumer Sciences Agent N.C. Cooperative Extension Surry & Alleghany County Centers

Puppy Love Want a friend who loves unconditionally and is always happy to see you? Try a four legged one. Dogs are referred to as “man’s best friend” for a reason. Our dog Josie Belle is no exception. Josie’s enthusiasm makes us and everyone who meets her smile even on the most stressful days. Growing up Brent and I each had a dog. Brent’s dog King, a Collie, was a very loyal friend to my only child husband. King was an outside dog but loved Saturday mornings when he was allowed to come into the house, watch cartoons and enjoy a bowl of cereal with “his boy”. One of Brent’s favorite King stories occurred when he was being disciplined by his father. Brent had misbehaved and his father was giving him a spanking when King came to his rescue. King didn’t like anyone punishing “his boy” and let Dad know it. My dog Muffin was a medium sized long-haired sheep dog that we rescued after someone dropped her off in our neighborhood. Muffin was a good dog and part of our family for more than 15 years. Even though she was an outside dog, Muffin had some extra conveniences. Thanks to my dad, her two-room doghouse had lights (which provided some heat on cooler days) and an automatic food/ water system. The outside had a flower box under the window and was always decorated with a seasonally appropriate wreath above the door. Muffin did get to come inside during bad thunderstorms which scared her and when it was extremely cold. Except for one time every day, she seemed content living in her own little house. Like clockwork, each afternoon before dinner, Muffin would let us know it was time for her walk. Barking until she/we got some exercise, it didn’t matter if it was hot, cold, sunny, snowing or raining, we would walk, or Muffin would bark. Muffin was doing my family a favor by making us increase our physical activity. According to research from Colorado State University College for Health and Human Sciences, dog owners have a 24% reduced risk for death from any cause. Those with heart problems saw an even greater benefit to pet ownerships. Walking your dog 20-30 minutes a day allows you to meet the American Heart Association physical activity recommendations of (75-150 min/week) of moderate to vigorous physical activity Josie Belle is a relatively new member to our family, but Brent and I look forward to warmer weather, longer days and more walks to increase our steps. It is just easier to get outside and exercise when she looks at us with that sweet little face that says, “take me for a walk”. Thankfully, our cat Rocky has accepted and enjoys his new 4-legged furry friend. They often share food and Rocky will tag along on our walks. My favorite comfort food to warm up after a brisk winter walk is a bowl of steamy hot soup. Try this Mediterranean recipe for Salmon Chowder from Med Instead of Meds. If you prefer a less spicy soup, adjust the red pepper. Any mix of rice will work in this recipe, however wild rice adds a nice bit of color.

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Salmon Chowder Serves 4 Serving Size: 1 cup Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 cup finely chopped onion 1⁄2 cup chopped carrot 1⁄3 cup chopped celery 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt 1⁄8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 11⁄2 cups whole milk 21⁄2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup precooked brown and wild rice 1 (31⁄2 ounce) package smoked salmon, torn into small pieces 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Directions 1. Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat. 2. Add oil and swirl to coat. Add onion, carrot, celery, salt, and cayenne pepper and sauté for 4 minutes. 3. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and cook 8 minutes or until vegetables are tender. 4. Combine milk and flour in a small bowl, stirring with a whisk. 5. Add milk mixture to pan and bring to a boil. Cook 1 minute or until slightly thickened, stirring constantly. 6. Stir in rice and salmon, and cook for 1 minute or until thoroughly heated. 7. Sprinkle evenly with green onions before serving.

Nutrition Information per Serving Serving Size: 1 cup Vegetables: 1⁄2 cup Fruits: 0 cups Calories: 255 calories Carbohydrates: 29 grams Fiber: 3 grams Protein: 11 grams Fat: 11 grams Sodium: 518 mg

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Hamptonville, NC 336-469-2117 Sat 9-1 January-February 2026

foodsandflavors™~ with ShaRee Parker

Crock Pot Beef Stew 1 14.5 oz. can beef broth 1 10.5 oz. can cream of mushroom soup 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1/8 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon original Dash seasoning 2-3 pounds cubed stew beef cut in bite size pieces with fat trimmed away 1 cup carrots, sliced 1 cup potatoes, peeled and cubed ½ cup celery, chopped ½ cup green pepper, sliced in thin strips ½ cup onions, sliced or chopped 1 8-ounce package baby bella mushrooms, sliced Combine the beef broth, mushroom soup, black pepper, salt, and Dash seasoning in the glass container of a 5-quart slow cooker/crock pot. Add the stew beef and vegetables and stir to combine. Place the lid on the crock pot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are done. This Crock Pot Beef Stew is a great comfort food during cold, wintry days. It’s a hearty meal and easy to prepare. It’s a great meal to come home to after a long day at work. Serve it with your favorite rolls, biscuits, or cornbread.

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My grandfather, Dan Herring, came from Dillon, South Carolina. His family had pecan trees in their yard. He loved pecan pie so my grandmother made many. I grew up eating many of her desserts. Granddaddy didn’t like syrup in his pie so Grandma made this recipe. I never saw her use an actual recipe. When I got old enough to want to cook or had to cook for home ec class at school, I asked her for the recipe. She didn’t know the measures so I sat with her one day and measured everything. Not the 1/4 cup of milk plus half of 1/4 cup of milk. When we added the milk she said that’s not enough, the consistency is not right. I wouldn’t let her just pour more so we used the 1/4 cup measure. When I see this recipe anywhere I know where it came from. My mother and I shared it many times. Family recipes are often the comfort food that we crave. Thanks to Mae Smitherman of Boonville for sharing her grandmother’s recipe.

Easy Pecan Pie 1 egg 1 cup brown sugar 1/4 cup plus half of 1/4 cup milk 1 1/2 tablespoons flour 1/4 cup melted butter 1 cup pecans 1 teaspoon vanilla Mix all ingredients, pour in pie shell. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.

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Stronger by the Dozen

with Lisa Prince

Wellness doesn’t need to be complicated. We may not have time every day to cook elaborate meals or get in a long workout, but there are other easy ways we can prioritize our health and well-being amid our busy lifestyles. In fact, one of the simplest steps you can take toward better health? Reach for a carton of eggs — it’s one healthy choice that supports your strongest self. Eggs are a source of complete protein, delivering all nine essential amino acids, which is what your body needs to maintain muscle mass. It’s the high-quality protein and nutrients in eggs that, along with a balanced diet and regular exercise, help to support all 600+ muscles in your body. Visit incredibleegg.org to learn more.

Director, NC Egg Association

BANANA WALNUT SCRAMBLE OATS https://ncegg.org/recipe/banana-walnut-scrambled-oats/ Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 7 minutes Servings: 1

Ingredients 1 ripe medium banana 1 large egg 1⁄3 cup rolled oats 1⁄8 teaspoon kosher salt 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup 2 tablespoon chopped walnuts 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil 1⁄4 cup plain, non-fat Greek yogurt, for serving 1⁄4 cup fruit, sliced or chopped, for serving

Instructions Smash the banana in the bottom of a medium bowl using the back of a fork. Add the egg and stir to combine. Stir in the oats, salt, cinnamon, maple syrup and walnuts. Add the oil to a 10-inch or 12-inch non-stick skillet and set over medium heat. Add the oat mixture, spreading into an even layer and let cook, undisturbed, until the underside is golden and crispy, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook for 1 minute, then break apart with a silicone spatula and add to a bowl. Garnish with yogurt and fresh fruit.

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CHICKEN AND VEGGIE RICE BOWL https://ncegg.org/recipe/egg-and-veggie-rice-bowl/ Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Servings: 4

Ingredients 1 cup brown rice 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 cups sweet potato (peeled and diced) 2 cups frozen peas and carrots 2 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded) 4 large eggs (whisked together)

Instructions Prepare rice according to package instructions. Set aside. In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil. Once warmed, add sweet potato. Cook until tender, about 7-8 minutes. Add peas, carrots, chicken and cooked rice, cook for about 3-4 minutes. Place in a separate bowl. In the same skillet over medium heat. Spray with nonstick cooking spray. Pour eggs into a skillet. Once edges start to cook, use a spatula to pull edges to the center. Repeat movement until eggs are completely cooked, about 3-5 minutes. Add rice mixture back to skillet and gently fold to combine. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Don’t forget to check out NCEgg.org to register for our monthly e-newsletter that is filled with recipes, nutrition tips, education and more!

January-February 2026

foodsandflavors™~ Gluten Free with Peggy Isenhour

Happy New Year! January is a time for fresh starts, new opportunities and setting resolutions. January is typically the coldest month of the year in our area. New Year’s Day is typically celebrated with black eyed peas and greens in the Southern US. Greens = money, peas=coins. Whether that’s true or not depends on who you speak with, but many don’t want to take that chance and make sure greens and black-eyed peas are on their table to start the New Year. February is the shortest month of the year. Groundhog Day is February 2 with the prediction of the length of winter. Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide on February 14th as a day of love and affection. A Valentine’s Day treat from the kitchen can be something sweet, homemade and filled with love. I love anything lemon, so when I came across a recipe for Lemon Brownie Bars, I had to try it. Instead of relying on cocoa or chocolate, this recipe uses fresh lemon juice and zest to create a refreshing taste. The bars should have a brownie like texture, hence the name brownie bars. The tart and citrusy taste brings a fresh, sunny flavor that is great to make year round. If you are cooking gluten free, I have included my preference in parentheses. Happy 2026! Blessings

Lemon Brownie Bars ½ cup butter, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 tablespoon lemon zest 4 tablespoons lemon juice 1 ¼ cups all purpose flour (King Arthur Measure for Measure gluten free flour) ¼ teaspoon salt

Glaze 1 ¼ cups confectioner’s sugar 2 – 2 ½ tablespoons lemon juice Preheat your oven to 350 ° and line an 8x8 baking pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Next, add in the eggs, one at a time and mix until well combined. Then, add lemon juice and zest and mix until combined. The batter might look curdled at this point, but this is normal. Add salt and flour and mix, but be sure not to overmix. Spread batter evenly in a baking dish and bake for 25 minutes or until it has just set in the middle. If overbaked, the bars will be crumbly. Allow to cool completely. While cooling, whisk together the glaze ingredients until it is a thick, pourable glaze. When bars are cooled, remove from the baking dish and spread glaze over the top.

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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.

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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! **Please mention coupons when making your appointment. Insurance accepted. If further care is needed, you have a right to request a refund within 72 hours.

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Office Hours: Monday 8-12 & 2-6 • Tuesday 9-12 • Wednesday 8-12 & 2-6 • Thursday 9-12 & 2-6 If you or someone you know suffers from headaches, neck, back, arm, wrist or leg pain, please let them know we would be happy to help them!

January-February 2026

Chocolate Gravy Works great on biscuits, ice cream, fresh fruit, or pound cake! Prep time 5 minutes. Serves 16 people. 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 3 tablespoons all purpose flour 1 cup sugar 1 pinch of salt 1.5 cups of milk 3 tablespoons of butter 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract In a medium saucepan, whisk the cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and salt together. Pour in milk and whisk until all lumps are gone. Put on medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly until the gravy boils and thickens. Once thick, remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla. (Measure all ingredients with your heart-these are estimations as I never actually measure them!) Jo Johnson

On the Cover

November-December 2025

When I first considered buying Yadkin Valley Magazine in the fall of 2023, Jo Johnson and her co-workers at the Yadkinville Post Office were some of the first people I told when I inquired about renting a post office box. Though I was undecided at the time, Jo encouraged me to go for it and has cheered me on ever since! When she asked if I needed a recipe for chocolate gravy, I said “Absolutely!” Though I had heard of it, I had to admit I had never cooked or eaten it before. Though I am sure it is delicious on many things, we tried it on pancakes, and now that is my definition of “Comfort Food”! I hope you enjoy her family recipe!

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Comfort Foods

Enjoy Delicious Warm Soups From Our Deli!

Stuffed Pepper Soup

Corn Chowder

Baked Potato Soup

Other Soups include: French Onion Soup • Broccoli Cheese Soup

Herbed Tomato Bisque • Chicken with Rice Soup • White Chicken Chili Cheesy Potato Soup • Chili with Beans • Chicken Noodle Soup • and Others!

Meatloaf TRY OUR POPULAR CUBAN SANDWICH, the Havana Mill! Honey Ham, Hickory Smoked Pulled Pork, with Baby Swiss Cheese, Dill Pickle Chips and Dark Mustard-Mayo Sauce, on Toasted Sourdough Bread

Popular "Homemade Meals" from Stoltzfus Kitchen Other Meals Include:

Four Cheese Lasagna • Chicken& Rice Casserole Pizza Casserole • Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo Stuffed Shells • Sausage Breakfast Hash • Shrimp Alfredo

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Whenever there is a family or church dinner,

I'm asked for my chicken pie! "When I was growing up, we always went to my Grandma's on Sunday. I always watched her make her chicken pie and that's how I learned to make her chicken pies! " Whenever there is a family or church dinner, I'm asked for my chicken pie!" A young 86, Hazel, has fixed many a meal and for women her age, they didn't need written recipes-they knew how a dough should look and feel. So when Hazel mailed in this recipe, she talks about making dough and refrigerating it overnight but didn't tell those of us who buy our pie dough at Food Lion how to make her dough! She explained to me over the phone how to do it but you know how that goes with a person who loves to read recipes but still can't cook. We'll simply continue to buy our dough and still enjoy Hazel's Chicken Pie recipe with store bought crusts!

Hazel Casstevens' Family Chicken Pie 3 large chicken breasts 3 cups self rising flour 1/2 cup Crisco 1 1/2 cups cold water

Salt and pepper to taste Retain broth from cooking chicken

Cook white chicken meat in water and take off bone when done. Roll dough and put around sides of a 9x13-inch dish. Sprinkle a little flour in bottom of dish, add cut up chicken, put on top crust and be sure to make slits in the crust to let steam out. Add some broth that you saved from cooking chicken. Start cooking at 350°F. As pie cooks, "paint" crust 3 or 4 times with margarine for lovely color. Add more broth if needed if it looks some drier. Cook about 1 1/2 hours until golden brown.

Editor’s note: I needed a couple more recipes for this issue. Knowing that I could utilize recipes previously published in Yadkin Valley Magazine and YVM cookbook collections, I picked up a copy of Best Yadkin Valley Cooks Cookbook. Looking at the table of contents, chicken pie caught my eye as a perfect comfort food to include. I didn’t realize that the recipe I would find was Aunt Hazel’s. Not actually an aunt, Hazel Casstevens was like an aunt to my husband, and dearly loved by our family. I am thrilled to be able to share her recipe again.

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Chicken Gnocchi Soup Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts cooked and shredded stalk of celery ½ white onion diced or a ¼ cup dried onion flakes 2 teaspoons minced garlic ½ cup shredded carrots 1 tablespoon olive oil 4 cups low sodium chicken broth Salt to taste Pepper to taste 1 teaspoon thyme 16 ounces potato gnocchi 2 cups half and half (for even more creamy richness, swap one cup of the half and half for heavy cream) 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add celery, onions, garlic, and carrots and sauté for 2-3 minutes. (If using flakes add them at the next step with the broth) Add chicken, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and thyme, bring to a boil, then gently stir in gnocchi. Boil for 3-4 minutes longer before reducing heat to a simmer and cooking for 10 minutes. Stir in half and half and spinach and cook another 1-2 minutes until spinach is tender. Taste, add salt and pepper if needed, remove celery stalk, top with parmesan cheese and serve. Reece Jones Age 18 Yadkin 4-H County Council

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January-February 2026

Health Benefits of Tea Green Tea vs Black Tea Tea originated in China and Americans have been enjoying the art of drinking tea since the 1600’s. Though we enjoy drinking tea for its flavor, studies show that these tiny leaves have many health benefits. Both green tea and black tea are derived from a shrub known as Camellia sinensis. What makes a difference in the two is how they are produced and processed. Green tea is produced by using tea leaves that have not been fermented before going through the drying process. Tea leaves that are allowed to ferment for several hours before drying, through smoking or steaming, is known as black tea. This process is done to intensify the flavor and turns the leaves a deep brown color. Due to this process, black tea contains more caffeine than green tea. Green tea has been studied for its health benefits but recent data shows that black tea may offer similar attributes. Studies show that green tea has a high concentration of EGCG, compounds that combat chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. It’s loaded with what we know as antioxidants. Let me simply explain the significance of this compound. Oxidation is a normal and necessary process that takes place in your body. Oxidative stress, on the other hand, occurs when there’s an imbalance in this process. This imbalance can lead to inflammation, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer and diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. It seems that wherever there is a weak area in our body's overall health, whether it’s due to our DNA, dietary choices, lifestyle or environment, oxidative stress will begin to attach to that weak area. The more antioxidants you consume, the more protection you offer that area of weakness and help

it to strengthen. It has been shown that eating five servings per day of a variety of fruits and vegetables is one way to provide your body with what it needs to produce antioxidants. Drinking green tea on a regular basis is another. Black teas are also very beneficial and provide different types of flavonoids (an additional benefit) than green teas but just remember, loading your black tea with sugar (southern sweet tea) will counteract those health benefits. It’s best to limit your sugar intake and try sweetening your tea with stevia or honey. I enjoy a combination of green tea and pure cranberry juice in the mornings. The juice adds flavor as well as, helping to prevent bladder & urinary tract infections. An additional health benefit! Mrs. Laura Mathis offers tea, coffee, baked goods and more at the historic Johnson House in Farmington.

Homemade Russian Tea (Sugar Free) 8 small tea bags of black tea 4 cups boiling water ¼ cup monk fruit or other sugar substitute 6 whole cloves or 2 teaspoons ground clove 1 large cinnamon stick or 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 cup orange juice ¼ cup lemon juice ½ cup pineapple juice, optional

Directions

Johnson House Bakery & Tea Room 1832 Farmington Rd Mocksville, NC 27028 36

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Steep tea bags in hot water for 5 minutes. Remove and add all other ingredients. Simmer on medium heat for 20 minutes. Remove cinnamon stick and whole cloves if used. Adjust spices and sweetness to taste.

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Aesthetix Laser and Medspa: Where Beauty Meets Science, and Confidence Comes Naturally. January-February 2026

Wellness

Safe Child Care

A major milestone for families after they have a child is finding someone to keep their baby when they return to work. When a family is looking into childcare options, there are many factors they may consider, such as location, costs, and type. There are many types of child care that can be licensed in NC through the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). These could include family child care homes, child care centers, preschool classes or out of school time programs. Location cost and type are all very important to consider, but just as important is the safety of the environment. NC has laws and rules that regulate these areas of licensed child care. This ensures that each licensed f acility has met a minimum standard of safety. When an agency goes through the licensing process, health and safety standards are measured and

Director, Yadkin County Human Services Agency Medical Clinic and Wic wall@yadkincountync.gov 336-849-7588

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assessed. This includes DCDEE child care licensing standards and environmental health inspection by the Division of Public Health, as well as building and fire code regulation. According to the DCDEE site, some of the child care licensing requirements that are checked in a program’s compliance history are: -Supervision of children -Condition of indoor and outdoor equipment, furnishings, and materials -Discipline practices -Child/staff ratios and group sizes -Sanitation practices -Health and safety practices -Staff education, professional development and ongoing training When a facility has these policies and practices in place, it means they have shown they have the things in place to properly care for children and keep them safe. This includes such things as: proper fire prevention and response, first aid and CPR, safe sleep practices, proper food handling and diapering practices, safe ratios of children to staff, handling emergencies, etc. With this all being said, it’s important to note that NC is in a child care crisis. There are not enough spots for children that need them, and the cost has become unaffordable for many families. It’s understandable that families may need to choose unlicensed child care for their children so they can continue working. If a family is going to seek care in this environment, parents are encouraged to consider the same things that are assessed when a facility is being licensed. Interview the person you are considering keeping your child. You have the right to know about their background, including relevant education and experience that qualifies them to keep your child. Come up with a list of questions to ask so you know they are ready to handle something that could come up: -Do they have a working phone,

smoke detector and fire extinguisher? -Have they had first aid and CPR training? Do you feel they could handle a medical emergency? -Do they understand best practice to prevent the spread of disease such as proper handwashing, food preparation and diapering? -Are they able to work safely with children with food allergies, medication administration, or other medical concerns? -How many other children and adults will there be? Will other people be allowed in the home while they are keeping your child? -Does the home or area look safe and well kept? Make sure they understand age appropriate toys, keep dangerous items and substances locked away. -Be sure to discuss your expectations on discipline and when you want to be communicated about and when. Choosing childcare can be a difficult task and decision. And no one factor will be a deciding factor for a family. There are many areas of concern or attention that must be considered. Health and safety of the provider, the environment and the children should be top priority when making this decision. Having assurance in some of the areas outlined above could be the child care provider you choose will make the healthiest and safest decision for your child while you’re not there. In some cases, these could be life or death decisions. If you would like more help better understanding licensed child care in your community, reach out to your local Partnership for Children or Smart Start. These agencies are in our communities to support local child care so children are in the best environments and ready for Kindergarten. Learn more about the mission of local Smart Starts at www.smartstart.org. You can also find more information about child care regulations in NC at ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov.

January-February 2026

The Backbone of 4-H: Volunteers One of the backbones to any great 4-H program is its volunteers. Yes, 4-H Professionals like myself do a lot to keep this program going, but we are only one person. We need many hands lending themselves to “Larger Service,” like our 4-H pledge states, to keep this program going and reach as many children in each county as we can. But what exactly does it take to be a volunteer in 4-H?! Let’s go over just that!

Why Volunteer with 4-H? First of all, why volunteer in the first place? Let alone with 4-H? There are so many great organizations out there needing help, and if those better suit you, I strongly urge you to help out where your passions lie. But for myself and many others, we have seen the importance of 4-H and its impact on our communities. For over 10 years, Tufts University has conducted studies on 4-H’ers, and they found that youth who participate in 4-H are more likely to: 4-H Agent N.C. Cooperative Extension Yadkin County Center madaline_jones@ncsu.edu

These are just a few of the things Tufts University found in their research. But these statistics alone help us realize that 4-H plays a big role in helping shape young minds for the better. As for the volunteers, they benefit from volunteering for 4-H too. The North Central Region 4-H Volunteer Study conducted a study of the 4-H Youth Development program across 12 states. They found the following in their findings: As you can see, there are many reasons to volunteer for 4-H, but now, how do we do it?

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Types of 4-H Volunteers 4-H volunteers come in many different forms. Some commit to leading a whole 4-H club. This is a volunteer role that takes several hours a month out of their time to plan 4-H club meetings and meet with their kids. This usually includes two to three hours of planning per month and then two to three hours for a club meeting per month. These hours vary depending on the club structure, but that is a general idea. If being a club leader is not your thing but you still want to help, club leaders always need a Co-Leader that provides more of a helping role. Maybe that includes setting up for a meeting, helping kids one-on-one with a project, or just assisting in the absence of the leader of the club. But what if you don’t have that much time to give to 4-H? We have other volunteer opportunities as well. In 4-H, we need a lot of subject area experts to deliver some of our programs. For instance, in Yadkin County 4-H we host something called an Environmental Field Day where almost 400 students come to learn about their environment through stations. Therefore, we need volunteers to help present on environmental-based topics. In these roles, some of our volunteer opportunities just ask you to give up a day or two of your time per year. Other events need volunteers to judge events. This is just a couple of hours’ time commitment where you give children constructive feedback on the competition they are in. Some of the competitions we need judges for are in-person with the kids there, like for our Food Shows where the youth actually present their culinary creations to a team of judges. Other volunteer opportunities just ask you to judge something that children have turned in to be judged, like sewn items or photography. Both of these volunteer types are so important to keeping a 4-H program running and making sure this program positively impacts as many children as possible. Regardless of how you volunteer with 4-H, remember the

words of Margaret Mead when she stated, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”

What kind of requirements are needed to be a 4-H Volunteer? NC 4-H operates under NC State University, and they have some strict guidelines for our volunteers to follow. In order to keep our kids safe, I believe we all can agree that that is a best practice. This process is not hard, though, and varies for each volunteer type. If you are a speaker for an event where you are not expected to be the primary caregiver of a child, your job is as simple as coming to an event prepared to give your speech. Similarly, in-direct 4-H volunteers judging events where kids are not present is as simple as showing up as well. As for 4-H club leaders, they are required to adhere to other requirements. You must submit for a background check with NC State University. I know we all feel much safer when our kids are with people that are vetted, so this is just part of our safety process. We do require that all of our 4-H club leaders and other volunteers that could be alone with children have a 4-H Online account. This is where they will receive training on working with kids and keeping them safe. For more information on how to be a 4-H Volunteer in your county, 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.

January-February 2026

Home & Garden

Prime Time Planning: Your Winter Garden To-Do List The garden is sleeping. While the ground outside may be cold, the biggest, most crucial job in the garden is underway right inside your home: Planning. January and February are the 'architect' months, when the success of the entire growing season is mapped out. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the sudden burst of spring activity, this is your solution. We've compiled a definitive winter action plan that covers everything from sharpening your tools to starting those slow-to-mature seeds. Stop waiting for spring to arrive, and start building your best garden yet.

WRITER/PHOTOS Kellee Payne Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent N.C. Cooperative Extension Yadkin County Center kellee_payne@ncsu.edu Facebook @YadkinCountyHorticulture

The urge to start sowing is strong this time of year, and for good reason. Many plants need a long, warm head start before they can handle the unpredictable weather of early spring. For gardeners in Yadkin County, where the average last frost is April 18th, January and February are the critical months for starting seeds that require 10–12 weeks or more indoors. Focus on varieties that need this head start to ensure a strong transplant and an early harvest. Perennial herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and sage, are great choices, as their slow germination and growth mean they'll be robust enough to transplant outside come spring. You should also start onions now, as these "root vegetables" require a long, cool period indoors to develop the thick, strong roots necessary for large, mature bulbs. Finally, starting early varieties of Brassicas, like cauliflower and broccoli, ensures they are ready for a quick spring planting to mature before the intense heat of summer causes them to bolt. Pro Tip: Never use garden soil in your seed trays. Always opt for a sterile, finetextured seed-starting mix to prevent damping-off disease and promote healthy initial root growth. Now that your seeds have been started, it's time to map out the rest of the garden. If you have any notes from last year’s garden, retrieve them to begin planning for your current season. Draw an accurate map of your beds, which allows you to practice crop rotation, the golden rule of soil health. Never plant crops from the same family in the same spot two years in a row. Rotating helps break pest cycles and prevents depletion of specific soil nutrients. Determine what you want to plant this season and explore seed catalogs—most companies offer free catalogs to be shipped right to your home. Once you have determined what seeds you would like to purchase, order them ahead of time as popular varieties will sell out quickly once spring hits. Don't forget to explore local options, like the Seed Libraries offered by the Yadkin County Public Libraries in collaboration with the Yadkin County Cooperative Extension. Finally, take advantage of the lab lull and send off a soil test. This inexpensive test will tell you exactly what your garden needs (nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, and pH levels). Having these results back now gives you plenty of time to purchase the necessary amendments (like lime or sulfur) before you need to work them into the soil. While January and February are about planning, they are also your final window for crucial maintenance tasks that can’t wait for spring. Don’t wait until your first day in the dirt to realize

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your pruners are dull or your shovel is rusty. Winter is the perfect time for a tool tune-up. Start by sharpening the blades of all your shovels, weeders, and pruners. Sharp tools require less effort and make cleaner cuts, which is healthier for your plants. Remove any rust from your tools by using steel wool and some elbow grease, then apply a light coating of oil (like mineral oil) to prevent further corrosion. Care for tool handles by lightly sanding and oiling wooden handles to keep them smooth and prevent splintering. Before the sap starts flowing and buds begin to swell, you have a limited window for dormant pruning. Pruning now is crucial because the plant's structure is fully visible without leaves, and the plant is less stressed. Focus on deciduous fruit trees (apples, pears, plums) and grapevines; this is essential for controlling size, improving air circulation, and ensuring better fruit production later in the year. Cure your winter gardening itch by focusing on your houseplants. Dust their leaves regularly (dust blocks light!), and remember to drastically reduce watering. Most houseplants go dormant or slow down in winter and can be easily overwatered. For a blast of early color, try forcing bulbs like paperwhites or hyacinths indoors. By taking these actions—starting seeds indoors, mapping your beds, testing your soil, and maintaining your tools—you ensure that the minute the ground is workable, you are ready to transition from architect to builder. The work you do in the quiet solitude of January and February isn't just maintenance; it's a profound act of faith in the coming season. There is no better cure for the mid-winter blues than the promise of the coming season. When the frost finally lifts, you won't be scrambling to order seeds or sharpen rusty tools; you will be planting the carefully nurtured seedlings that are already growing under your lights. Your best garden starts not when the snow melts, but right here, right now.

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

January-February 2026

Scott Duckworth with Mitchell’s Nursery & Greenhouse There is a common misconception among casual gardeners that the gardening season ends at the end of fall. Real growers know the truth, though, the winter season does not have to be a landscape of idle emptiness. After the summer flowers have faded, winter offers a chance to plant and admire plants that contrast with those of other seasons. In the cold season of the Piedmont Triad, the garden changes up; it doesn’t really shut down. For the experienced gardener, this is a prime time to appreciate the "bones" of the landscape and to prepare for a show when spring returns. Winter can be a good time while beds are less crowded to build up or repair your raised beds, pavers, rock gardens, and elevate the hardscaping that frames your living plants all year. Slide into Winter In landscape design, we often hear about "four-season interest." December, January, and February are the ultimate test of a North Carolina garden design. Without the distraction of the loud summer annuals or perennial wildflowers, we rely on plants that offer architectural shape and seasonal color. Camellia sasanqua thrives right now, offering soft blooms in shades of white, pink, and red against glossy, dark green foliage that will bridge the gap between autumn and winter. They grow quickly and provide an amazing amount of privacy screening; some varieties will reach over 10 feet tall. Hollies (Ilex) are currently putting on a spectacular show, striking bright red berries. These plants provide essential food for birds and color for our eyes. For ground-level color, Pansies and Violas are the best options for the winter. Planted now, they will establish root systems that allow them to survive our dips below freezing, often showing their faces through a light snow. The Garden Doesn’t Sleep While the growth rate slows, growing activity continues

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underground. As a grower, I cannot stress enough that fall and winter are the best times to plant trees and shrubs in our region. While the soil is not frozen and the plants are in dormancy, roots can establish with plenty of time before the stress of the sweltering Southern heat. To keep your garden healthy through the coming freeze cycles, consider these tips: 1. The Winter Water Rule The biggest mistake gardeners make in winter is putting away the hose. Winter winds and dry cold fronts can dry out plants, especially evergreens. If we go two weeks without significant rainfall, water your shrubs and trees deeply. This is particularly crucial before a hard freeze; hydrated plant cells are more resistant to cold damage than dry ones. 2. Mulch as a Blanket If you haven’t applied a fresh layer of mulch, do it now. We aren't mulching to prevent weeds at this stage, but to insulate. A 2-to-3-inch layer of hardwood mulch or pine needles helps regulate soil temperature, preventing the "heaving" that occurs when the ground freezes and thaws repeatedly, which can push new plants up out of the soil. 3. Pruning and Cleanup Walk your property with a critical eye. Remove any dead or diseased wood from trees and shrubs to prevent winter storms from creating hazards. However, hold off on pruning spring-blooming shrubs like Azaleas, Forsythia, and Hydrangeas. These plants have already set their buds for next year; pruning them now means cutting off next spring's flowers. Bringing the Outside In For those days when the temperature drops too low for comfort, nature still provides. Winter is the best time to use natural elements for indoor décor. Snips of Magnolia foliage, Cedar, Pine, and houseplants make for long-

lasting, free arrangements that connect your interior living space with the landscape outside. Additionally, growing Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea) or Sangu Kaku Japanese Maples creates bright crimson stems in wintertime that stand out against the brown and gray of winter colors. The cut stems look marvelous in a tall vase. Leave the Leaves Beneficial insects like our native NC bumblebees and lady beetles don't migrate; they hibernate. In the wild, they place themselves into brush piles or layers of fallen leaves. We love nature, and we also love a tidy yard. Large brush piles are not exactly tidy and, therefore, not practical for everyone. Build a Bug Snug Think of these tiny teepees as a boutique hotel for beneficial insects. It’s a simple, architectural structure (usually a pyramid of sturdy branches) packed with garden "waste" that is usually bagged up: hollow stems, pinecones, dried flower heads, and autumn leaves. Insects in hibernation need insulation to survive our lowest temperatures. By stacking vertically, you protect it from freezing winds and hungry predators. We can create

a "clean" aesthetic while keeping the "messy" habitat nature needs. Gathering branches, raking leaves, and constructing your snug is functional fitness at its finest. You’re stretching, lifting, and connecting with the earth. Building yourself while you build a home for others. A Bug Snug is a sculptural element. The textures of bark, dried grass, and seed heads add a rustic, natural visual appeal to your winter landscape that plastic ornaments just can't match. Looking Ahead This winter, take a moment to photograph your garden. Without full foliage, you can clearly see the gaps in your landscape design. Where is it too open? Where do you lack privacy? Use this time to plan and design enhancements. Gardening is an act of hope and patience. The work you put in during these short, chilly days, getting the trees planted and the mulch spread, is a promise you make to the future. If you put on your jacket, grab your gloves, and enjoy the cold, you will find that your garden is still very much alive, and it’s waiting for you.

How to Build a Bug Snug (It’s Easier Than You Think!): Frame it: Connect three sturdy branches at the top to form a teepee. Fill it: Stuff the bottom with heavy brush and pinecones. Layer it: Pack the middle with leaves and hollow stems (nature's straws!). Top it: Finish with lighter twigs or ornamental grasses.

January-February 2026

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Process of Composting & Edging Your Garden Bed Having healthy soil in your flower and garden spots along with a nice defined border go hand in hand together. Healthy soil will help grow you some good thriving plants with yummy produce. Having a good edge to your garden helps make it look neat. Making your own compost and gardening will give you that hands-on experience. Picking a location for your compost pile is very important because it’s not something you want front and center of your house or property. I recommend finding an area on the back side of your property, near a tree/border line, or close to your garden spot. After finding a location for your compost, decide whether you will use some type of bin to put everything in or just designate a spot directly on the ground. Personally, I like just having a compost pile on the bare ground. You can make a good starting mixture of compost by starting with simple things you have at home. Using compost in your flower and garden spots enriches the soil and reduces waste. It will help you add a great healthy medium to your soil. You want a mixture of greens and browns to balance out your compost pile. The greens are rich in nitrogen and some examples are fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, crushed eggshells, and grass clippings. The browns are rich in carbon and some examples are dry leaves, toilet paper rolls and paper towel rolls, straw and hay, sawdust and wood shavings, pine needles, small twigs and plant stalks. Also, it’s good to add some mulch to your homemade compost pile occasionally. Some things to avoid adding to your compost pile are meat, bones, fats, dairy products, oils and grease, and any diseased plants or weeds with seeds. Some people choose to use a container to hold their scraps and compost pile. If your compost pile isn’t just in an open area then you’ll need to add water as needed. Remember: Air, Water, &

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Time = Composting. Edging your flower and garden bed can be a pretty simple task & has several benefits to it. It can help keep grass and weeds out of your beds, help contain the soil and mulch, simplifies mowing, helps manage water flow, and protects plants. Other benefits are that edging creates a clean professional look, highlights your plants, supports design features and defines garden zones. There are different tools you can use to edge. For a big area it’s best to use a bed edger while for a smaller area using a shovel is fine. I believe the easiest way to edge a bed area is having a battery powered edger. You don’t have to worry about gas, it’s not as heavy, easier to handle, and you can get it done quicker. I believe the best way to edge is to have a gas-powered edger. You just need to be able to handle it because it's bulkier. It also makes it easy to get the grass out since it makes such a deep clean cut. Other ways you can edge is with a half-moon edger or with a spade/square shovel. The first step is you want to figure out where you want your edge and mark it. Depending on the size of the area, simple materials you can use to mark your edge are a garden hose, string, or spray paint. Once you have the edge marked you can start cutting the outer edge. If you don’t have any equipment and have to do it by hand, then it’s best to use a square shovel. A square shovel is a popular tool that most people are going to have around. You want to push the tool into the ground at a 90 degree angle so that you can make a sharp clean cut downward into the ground. A tip I have found to be helpful is to angle your shovel a bit as you step on it so it makes an easier cut into the ground. If you can plan to edge after a rain that will also help the shovel to go down into the ground better. Make your way around edging the entire area you want cut out

then next is to remove any clumps of sod, soil, or grass and weeds from the trench area. Make sure your trench is clean of any unwanted material and has a great slope from the edge of the bed up into the flower/garden bed. The better you have the clean sharp edge the better it will look overall. Personally, after I get done edging, I like to tamp along where I have edged just to hold it in place better. Usually, adding a covering layer like mulch, pine needles, rock or pebbles, etc. is recommended. As a final step let your mulch slope along your edge where you have edged. I also have found it helpful to tamp the mulch in along the edge to hold it in place better. I encourage you to try making your own compost for your garden area and challenge yourself to try edging your garden bed. I think you will find composting and edging your garden and flower spots will become important processes for your homesteading experience.

Shannon Holden Hudler Associate Degree in Applied Animal Science Technology and Associate Degree in Horticulture Technology from Wilkes Community College

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Living Low Waste While I was still in college at UNC Wilmington, learning about sustainability and its impact on communities, my mom and I talked about how sustainability has been happening in the Yadkin Valley long before it had a name. Reusing containers is a common practice, and an easy place to start if you want to live lower waste. How many times growing up did you drink out of a Mason jar? Did you ever accidentally pack a container of butter instead of your leftovers because you didn’t check the inside of the container? Because I often drink out of a Mason jar and I know I’ve gotten a text from my dad at work saying he packed the butter or cream cheese by mistake because he didn’t check the containers! Families living in rural areas are often naturally sustainable without even realizing it. I grew up working in our garden as a kid and knew plenty of others who also had gardens. We ate fresh vegetables all summer, and canned or froze what we couldn’t eat at the time. And what to do with five pounds of zucchini you can’t eat or freeze? You give it away to neighbors or you donate it to a food bank. If you know the right people, you could have fresh produce all summer without even planting anything! The last thing someone with a garden wants to see is their hard work going to waste, and eating in-season fruits and vegetables is a great sustainability practice. Another thing that is more common in rural areas is not buying new clothing every time something has a hole or shrinks in the dryer. Sewing is definitely a lost art that’s starting to become more popular again. But around here, when you rip a hole in your pants, you get someone to patch them up. Or if something shrinks in the dryer, it gets passed to someone it will fit better. When your older sister is going through her closet, you look through her clothes and see if she’s getting rid of something you always wanted to steal. When I decided to start Refill Carolina, one cost I was concerned about was the containers to get people started refilling. BUT, because we save things, I had plenty of free jars to get started with, just from my house! My dad may get frustrated with all of the jars saved for repurposing, but it paid off! Now, with help from friends and family, I am keeping my free jar stash full of spaghetti jars, pickle jars, salsa jars, and so much more. You can bring your own jar fill, but if you forget, I’ve got you covered! Rebecca Williams Refill Carolina

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January-February 2026

Yadkin River Bridges Linking Elkin and Jonesville In the beginning, wagons, buggies and the first cars forded the river, entering in the Fish Trap area where Mineral Springs Branch made possible a sloping descent into the Shallows. At this site, where Mineral Springs Branch flowed into the Yadkin was where numerous wilderness trails intersected. Iron Works Road, which early wagons traveled to carry ore to the forge on Big Elkin Creek, crossed at Mineral Springs Shallows where a large sandbar (below the fish trap) once formed in the middle of the river. The primary wilderness and Native American trails that crossed here were the North-South Trail (highway 21), the Occonee Trail (highway 67) and Old Highway 60 which connected with highway 421 up the River into what would become Wilkes County. This particular trail into Wilkes followed much of the current route called River Road. Previously, this route was called the Wilkesboro Road, Old Ford Road and Old Ferry Road. There were, however, other river crossings than at the shallows west of today's modern McNeill Bridge or at the I-77 high-speed 4-lane crossing.

At some time before the Civil War, there was a ferry between Jonesville and Elkin. The ferry was operated by Frank Day, who was also postmaster for Jonesville and who had lost an arm working in the local mill. Frank lived above the ferry on Mineral Springs hill. The ferry was located at the mouth of the Big Elkin Creek. It was likely built in the mid- to late 1840s to expedite transporting materials and equipment across the river to the cotton mill that former Jonesville businessman Richard Gwyn was building on the Big Elkin Creek. The first bridge across the Yadkin was a covered toll bridge. It was the longest suspension bridge in its time at approximately 200 feet. It opened in 1872 and stood until 1913. Initially owned by private investors, the toll was five cents. It was later purchased jointly by Surry and Yadkin counties and opened to the public with no toll being charged. Flood waters never affected the covered bridge, but the wood flooring, cut by heavy-laden, thin metal wagon wheels, was declared unsafe so the Covered Bridge was torn down to make way for the first metal “Old Bridge,”

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which failed to survive the flood of 1916. The next metal “Old Bridge” was greatly damaged when the gradual approach on the Elkin side was washed away by the Flood of 1940.

Sections of this steel-wood structure were damaged in two subsequent floods, one in 1916 and another in 1940. Following one repair in 1940, metal trussing was dropped into the river near the Jonesville bank. It can be seen on the down-river side of the bridge when the water is low. Those of us who remember the bridge, referred to it as the "old bridge." It was constantly in a state of repair from either heavy traffic or flood waters. Wooden railings, trusses and connecting cables were routinely replaced; the flooring was frequently patched. Those who remember driving across the old bridge also remember how it would creak and sway as drivers grew impatient -- turning its narrow single-lane span into a challenging two-lane, sidescraping bottle-neck -- especially during morning and afternoon work traffic. The most frightening times, however, were when the bus that once ran between Elkin and Jonesville drove across .... Approaching cars would have to yield by backing up -- across the bridge -- further frustrating drivers on both sides of the river. Dr. Judy Wolfe

In this photo made in 1934, there are two bridges: the Old Metal Bridge before it was torn down for the Gwyn McNeil Bridge; and the Hugh Chatham Memorial Bridge. The modern Gwyn McNeil Bridge replaced the “Old Metal Bridge” in 1970.

A view of Jonesville from the Elkin side of the river showing the Hugh Chatham and Gwyn McNeil bridges as they were in 1971. Photo courtesy of the Studio One Collection donated to the Jonesville Historical Society by Randy Hedrick, photographer

The old bridge was replaced by a four-lane bridge which opened in May of 1971. The new, modern bridge was named in honor of Jonesville's Gwyn McNeil, a district Highway Commissioner under Governor Robert Scott. Commissioner McNeil was also instrumental in routing I-77 through Surry, Yadkin and Jonesville.

Photo by Keith Hall The Hugh Chatham Memorial Bridge, built in 1931was named in honor of Hugh Gwyn Chatham local businessman. The massive bridge spanned 1508 feet over the Yadkin River and was essential to link the growing textile, tobacco and furniture industries to Highway 67 in Jonesville and on to Winston-Salem. This iconic bridge stood until 2010, when it was removed after parts of it started falling.

Drone photography by Joel Jones An aerial view from 2025, shows the Gwyn McNeil Bridge. In the river, just before the bridge, is an ancient Native American Fish Trap. A symbol for both towns, local residents tried unsuccessfully to save the Hugh Chatham bridge as a pedestrian walk-way between the two towns. The concrete railings from the bridge were cut into sections and are now part of Mineral Springs Veterans Memorial Park. Contributions to the Mineral Springs Veterans Memorial Park can be made to the Jonesville Historical Society at 458 West Main Street, Jonesville NC 28642.

January-February 2026

THE COVERED BRIDGE, 1872-1913

This print of the famous Covered Bridge that once linked Jonesville and Elkin is from a 2006 acrylic painting by artist Sharon Vestal Jackson. It was commissioned by the Jonesville Historical Committee in connection with the 5th annual observance of Old Jonesville Day on April 28, 2007. The Covered Bridge became the first bridge to connect the two towns in 1872, sixty-one years after the founding of Jonesville and 17 years before the incorporation of Elkin. For 41 years, the Covered Bridge was the best place anywhere in the Yadkin Valley for a buggy or wagon to get from one side of the river to the other. It spanned the river without supports underneath and was the longest wooden bridge of its kind in the world. A corporation built the bridge and charged each wagon driver crossing it a toll fee of five cents, collected by a bridge keeper on the Elkin side. Stockholders included Alexander Chatham and R. R. Gwyn, the former Jonesville man who became the

Thanks to Dawn Hardwick of the Jonesville Historical Society for gathering the photos and information on pages 52-54. All photos courtesy of the Yadkin Valley Museum. Follow them on Facebook (Jonesville Historical Society) for information about events and ways that you can support the Historical Society, the museum, and the Mineral Springs Veterans Park.

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founding father of Elkin. The local governments acquired the Covered Bridge in 1904 and stopped the toll charge. In 1913, at the same point on the river, a modern bridge of wood and steel construction replaced the Covered Bridge, but this one was short-lived; it was swept away by the Flood of 1916 and replaced in 1917 by another modern bridge, the main part of which survived the Flood of 1940 and continued to be used until it was torn down to make way for the four-lane Gwyn McNeil Bridge in 1971. -CHARLES GRAY MATHIS Prints of The Covered Bridge by Sharon Vestal Jackson are available for purchase at The Jonesville History Center.

For more information on how you can become involved with the Jonesville Historical Society, contact Trevor Hardwick at 336 428 2176 or trevcolehard@gmail.com.

Remembering the Siloam Bridge Collapse If you lived in the Yadkin Valley in 1975, chances are you remember the tragic collapse of the Siloam bridge on February 23. That foggy Sunday evening, twenty people and seven vehicles went off the collapsed bridge. Miraculously, sixteen people survived. Siloam is a small community in southern Surry County. The bridge connected to northern Yadkin County in the Fall Creek community. The bridge had replaced a ferry in 1938. Previously used at High Rock Lake, the bridge was moved and rebuilt at Siloam. On the night of the collapse, it was too foggy for approaching drivers to see that the bridge had collapsed, allowing a total of seven vehicles to plunge into the river, some landing on other vehicles. Hugh and Ola Atkinson, Siloam residents who drove off the bridge after hearing cries for help, died when their car fell into the river. From the Yadkin County side, Judy Needham and her three year old daughter died. They were headed home to Pilot Mountain. Sixteen people were rescued by first responders.

I recently spoke with Mike Matthews and Jill McCormick, a brother and sister who are two of the remaining survivors. Residents of East Bend, they were traveling home from their grandparents’ house in Siloam. Their parents were injured, and they recalled their mother spending 101 days in the hospital, as well as months at home in a body cast. Teenagers at the time, they recalled the ambulance ride to the hospital in Mount Airy. Both of them sat up front with the driver, and four of the injured victims were in the back of the ambulance, which had two beds on each side like bunk beds. The emergency room was chaos. Mike, with just cuts and bruises, recalled hearing nurses say that one of the couples brought in had not spoken. From spending time in Siloam with his grandparents, Mike knew everyone in the community. He knew the couple who were not talking-he had seen them sitting in their car with the interior light on before rescuers got them out-and informed hospital staff

that both of them were deaf. Jill, with many cuts on her face, had hundreds of stitches. Her cousin, Debbie Gough, who came to take them home from the hospital, was told to keep her away from mirrors, but that proved impossible with a thirteen year old. Debbie and her husband moved into the Matthews’ home for three months to help out while Mike and Jill’s parents were in the hospital and recuperating. Mike, a student at Forsyth Tech at the time, remembered going to class, then by the hospital to spend time with his mom for weeks. From the many get well cards that the family received, Mike and Jill made a giant sixteen foot “Thank You” sign to display in their yard. Mike was able to keep a sense of humor following the tragedy. A new, permanent bridge was dedicated in 1976. Avid fishermen, he remembered that he, his dad, and his uncle put in just downstream and arrived by boat for the ceremony. He said no one was expecting that! There are many sources to get the details about what happened that night, but Mike and Jill were able to fill in some parts of the story that aren’t in the newspaper accounts. When I asked what they wanted people to remember about the tragedy, Mike said, “Just that they do remember.” This February will mark fifty-one years since the bridge collapsed, and Mike and Jill know that there aren’t a lot of people left who actually remember, so those who weren’t old enough or didn’t live here at the time will have to be the ones to remember.

To honor the 50th anniversary of the bridge collapse, a memorial service was held on February 23, 2025. Wreaths were placed at each end of the Atkinson Needham Memorial Bridge, which replaced the bridge in 1976.

January-February 2026

Bear Creek Candy Kitchen A Sweet Spot in Mount Airy Bear Creek Candy Kitchen has been in its Main Street, Mount Airy location since 2010. But one of its owners, Jerry Caudle, has had a retail presence downtown for 35 years. The Mount Airy native spent ten years in the Army before working retail for someone else. Using his previous experience, he grew his business from a booth at Cook’s Flea Market to his first Main Street location. Beginning with Specialty Gifts, Caudle has owned and operated a series of shops. He and Bear Creek Candy Kitchen co-owner Steve Martin have grown their business over the last fifteen years. They credit Fred Jennings, a local businessman, who previously owned their building. “He was instrumental in growing our business,” Caudle told me. There is much more than candy at Bear Creek Candy Kitchen, though. Sauces, jams, jelly and honey line many shelves. Seasonal gifts are available, as well as many Mayberry-themed gifts and souvenirs. Candy is made on-site in the candy kitchen they added during a building upgrade a few years ago. If you can’t make it by the Mount Airy store to pick up candy, many items are also available for purchase on their website and can be shipped straight to you!

Some Valentine candies are available online, but if you want chocolate covered strawberries, you will have to visit Bear Creek Candy Kitchen, in Mount Airy!

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Readers Around the Yadkin Valley Georgann Eubanks To Visit Yadkinville with New Book When it comes to shining a light on the natural beauty of the South, you can count on books by Georgann Eubanks, celebrated writer, teacher, and environmental documentarian. Georgann has authored a guidebook series for book lovers, The Literary Trails of North Carolina, told stories of our state’s heritage foods, The Month of Their Ripening, and journeyed across the Southeast to profile endangered native plants and the scientists, volunteers, and advocates working to protect them in Saving the Wild South. Her books invite readers to explore the literary, cultural, culinary, and ecological heritage of the South, while they offer extraordinary insight into the region’s natural treasures and environmental uncertainties. Her latest book, The Fabulous Ordinary: Discovering the Natural Wonders of the Wild South, continues in this vein, celebrating the everyday marvels of nature. Eubanks leads readers through seasonal wonders in seven Southern states—from half a million purple martins roosting on a South Carolina island, to trout-lily meadows

in Georgia, to glowing gnat larvae in an Alabama canyon—showing how plants, insects, birds, and other creatures are surviving despite habitat loss and climate pressures. As with past books, the narrative is enriched by contributions from partner, photographer and fellow documentarian, Donna Campbell. Her luminous photography brings the delicate beauty and urgency of these threatened landscapes to life. A longtime advocate for nature and native landscapes, Eubanks has spent much of her career chronicling the fragile ecosystems of the American South and calling attention to the environmental challenges they face. She is a beloved speaker on North Carolina history, literature, and natural heritage.

Yadkin Valley Magazine will host Georgann Eubanks for an Earth Day Celebration on April 22. Look for more details in the March/April issue.

Explore Historic Charleston with The Miniaturist’s Assistant It’s no surprise that The Miniaturist’s Assistant by Katherine Scott Crawford has become so popular with readers and rewarded with the 2025 Sir Walter Raleigh Award for fiction. It brings together art, history, and mystery, with a bit of time travel to weave past and present into a seamless story of romance, adventure, and the unsettling truth about what it was like to be Black in 1804, whether enslaved, free, or somewhere painfully in between. If you enjoy a savvy heroine with a love of history and a sense of adventure, you will like Gamble Vance. She is a divorced art conservator in 2004 Charleston. Her obsession with a particular miniature portrait sets the stage for the story. While walking alone through the historic French Quarter one evening Gamble is beckoned down Stoll’s Alley by a shadowy figure, quietly tipping the

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novel from intriguing to unexplainable. And that’s when Gamble’s life gets really interesting! The Miniaturist’s Assistant offers a peek into the 19thcentury art world and the history of miniatures. The reader meets Daniel Petigru, a miniature portrait artist in 1804 Charleston, and gets a front row seat to the artistic process, a delicate craft requiring meticulous work to create beauty on a tiny scale. In 2004 Charleston, as Gamble takes on the preservation process of that one special piece, her discovery becomes a key part of a much larger story. Her work becomes a quest to restore stolen identities and acknowledge erased lives that were written out of history. As an African-American scholar and Gamble’s longtime friend, Tolliver Jackson is a leading man you can root for. Handsome, charming, and the perfect partner to help her investigate the mystery. Tol brings heat, heart, and genuine emotional stakes to the story. The Miniaturist’s Assistant brings together all the elements and blends them into an irresistibly readable novel. Learn more and meet Katherine Scott Crawford when she visits Pages Books & Coffee on Thursday, March 5, at 5 pm. The event is free and open to the public. Books are in stock now at Pages and will be available for sale and signing at the event.

Book Club News Elkin Library Chooses Winter Reads Abby Walker, Branch Manager at the Elkin Library submitted their upcoming book club picks. January- Educated by Tara Westover February- Redwood Court by DeLana R. A. Dameron March- A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell

Conversation Starters at Sparta Book Club

Something for the Tween/Teen readers The homeschool book club meets at the Elkin Library on the 4th Tuesday of each month at 1pm. It is a genre book club for 11+ readers. Cassidy Transou, teen librarian in Elkin, holds the Comedy menu for a recent club meeting. She offers a “book tasting” so club members can sample each type of book before choosing one to take home. Readers return each month to talk about what they’ve read and enjoy book-themed snacks. The goal is to create lifelong readers and give students the chance to talk about books with their peers.

At the 21 Salon & Spa Book Club, participants receive an overview of the book and questions for group discussion. Meetings include cocktails, conversation, and extras like their holiday book exchange.

The Wordy Winos – Elkin This book club meets monthly at Carolina Heritage Winery. Started in 2023 by mother/daughter duo, Madison Dotson and Shasta Jackson, and the former winery owner, Wendy McNabb, the group enjoys evening meetings with wine, food and great discussion.

Winery owner, Amanda Grenier, sporting her club tee shirt and the group’s December and January selections, Nell Joslin’s Civil War novel, Measure of Devotion and Valerie Nieman’s medieval novel, Under the Corner of the Moon. The Wordy Winos will host Joslin and Nieman, along with novelist Elaine Orr, for a private book club event when the trio of authors visits Elkin on February 10.

January-February 2026

Library Celebrations! Two Yadkin Valley libraries held ribbon cutting celebrations on November 14 to officially welcome visitors to their new and improved facilities!

The Jonesville Public Library now has a permanent home, thanks to Friends of the Library, the Town of Jonesville, and the support of the community. Located near Jonesville school, the open floor plan allows for flexibility so that the space can be used for different activities. An exciting new feature is the demonstration kitchen.

Renovation of the Mount Airy library became a reality with support from the city of Mount Airy, the library board, and Friends of the Library. In addition to building improvements, inside spaces have been updated to make them more inviting and to better utilize the space. The Blue Bear Cafe is an exciting addition-be sure to check it out on your next visit!

Authors Coming Our Way! Add these dates to your winter calendar. Here’s your chance to meet the author and hear about their book first-hand! Bundle up and join fellow readers at an event near you!

Friday, February 6, 5 pm Pages Books & Coffee, Mt. Airy Donna Everhart – Women of a Promiscuous Nature

Tuesday, February 10, 4 pm Elkin Public Library Valerie Nieman - Upon the Corner of the Moon Nell Joslin – Measure of Devotion Elaine Orr-Dancing Woman

Thursday, March 5, 5 pm Pages Books & Coffee, Mt Airy Katherine Scott Crawford – The Miniaturist’s Assistant Patricia Hudson – Traces

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With more than 2,000 homeschool families in the counties served by the Northwest Regional Library, many activities are available at public libraries as well as other community locations. In addition, some other resources for homeschool families are listed below.

Activities available for homeschoolers in our area Check with each location to confirm dates and times in case of schedule changes.

Monday •10-11 am -Jonesville Library: STEAM activities for all ages

Tuesday •12-12:30pm-Elkin Library: Social Skills for ages 4-6 •12:30-1:00pm-Elkin Library: Book Report Club for ages 7-10 •12-1pm-Elkin Library: Sewing class for ages 8+ •1-2pm-Elkin Library: Social Hour, Community Day, Art, for all ages, Tween/Teen Bookclub for 11+

Wednesday •1-3pm-Yadkinville Library: Game Day, STEAM, Cooperative Extension activites for all ages •Time varies-Pilot Mountain area: -Hiking Homeschoolers Facebook group- hikes every other week for all ages

Thursday •9:30-10:30-Elkin Valley Baptist Church: PE for K-5th grade, $5 per child, TeamReach app: PE 4 Homeschoolers, code Active2025 •2-3pm-Mt Airy Library: STEAM activities for all ages •2-4pm first Thursday of the month-Dobson Extension office: Surry County Homeschooled 4’Hers Facebook group-class theme varies each month, for all ages $25 per family for school year •4-5pm 3rd Thursday of the month-Mt Airy Library: preteen bookclub for ages 10-12 •4-5pm 4th Thursday of the month-Mt Airy Library: teen bookclub for ages 13+

Friday •9:30-10:30-Elkin Valley Baptist Church: PE for 6-12th grade, $5 per child, TeamReach app: PE 4 Homeschoolers, code Active2025 •9:30-12:30-Armfield Civic Center Pilot Mountain: PE and other activities for all ages, $35 per child per month •Time varies-Armfield Civic Center: Hiking Homeschoolers Facebook group- scavenger hunt, nature journaling and free play for all ages

Websites: www.nche.com This is the best place to find information on the laws in NC and how to get started homeschooling. https://secure.rec1.com/NC/pilot-mountain-nc/catalog This is a PE program in Pilot Mountain, search for Flexin w/Friends

Facebook groups: Elkin Library Homeschool Meetups-this is a private page, join to see all homeschool events posted for this library. Jonesville Public Library-this is a public page, search for Homeschool Activity Days. Hiking Homeschoolers-this is a private page listing weekly meetups and hikes in the Pilot Mountain area. Friends of the Mt. Airy Public Library (Mount Airy, North Carolina)-this is a public page-search for STEAM or homeschool Surry County Homeschooled 4-Hers-this is a private page listing monthly homeschool events at the Dobson Extension office Yadkin County Public Library-this is a public page, search for Homeschool Meet-up

App: TeamReach App, group PE 4 Homeschoolers, code Active2025-this is a PE class in Elkin

January-February 2026

The Mount Airy Regional History Museum is entering a new chapter as its beloved Train Exhibit and a new Truck Exhibit reopen after extensive renovations. According to Museum Director Matt Edwards, the upgrades are rooted in the museum’s 2018 Strategic Plan, a community-driven process that revealed a surprising top request: move the museum’s front door back to the Main–Oak corner. “Once you move the door,” Edwards explained, “everything behind it has to change.” As the museum approached its 25th anniversary, the team saw an opportunity to refresh the building’s flow and rethink how stories are presented. What followed was a multi-year renovation slowed—but not stopped—by the COVID-19 pandemic. The museum paused fundraising and continued with the resources already secured, determined to keep the project moving. The train room, long a visitor favorite, had been tucked into a dead-end corner that limited access and visibility. “Ultimately, what we do here is storytelling,” Edwards said. “The layout has to support the story.” The new location lets the trains function as narrative “threads”—intentional connections between exhibits that encourage exploration across all floors. To fit the redesign, the museum traded some square footage for a more vertical footprint. The reimagined three-tier layout now interprets multiple historic service lines, expanding the story the trains can tell. Much of the hands-on work came from longtime volunteer and now staff member Mark Brown, who invested over 800 hours of model railroading expertise to shape the exhibit’s technical and artistic character.

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As part of the Mayberry Book Festival, the museum partnered with The Spoken Word Society to host a writing competition themed simply “Trains.” The winning poem, by Shannon Truban, will appear alongside the newly reopened exhibits, adding a creative voice to the museum’s storytelling. Edwards emphasized that museum renovations differ greatly from household remodeling. “People think remodeling means moving furniture and painting for a couple of months,” he said. “But museum renovation is a different world. Every inch is planned. Every element requires coordination between volunteers, staff, technical experts, and designers.” The result is an exhibit experience that is richer, more immersive, and built to serve the next generation of visitors. A place that invites the community to rediscover the museum’s stories from a refreshed perspective.

Millie Hiatt is the author of Does a Dress Have a Life and founder of Mount Airy’s Spoken Word Society, among other things. She helped organized this year’s Mayberry Book Festival, where one of the activities was a writing contest. Given the topic of “Trains” and a time limit, writers submitted their work and the first, second and third place winners are showcased on the following page.

Mark Brown, museum employee, put his model railroad expertise to good use while working on the upgraded Train Exhibit.

All photos this page by Bisse Bowman, photographer for the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History.

Rain on the Rails The rain fell slow, sweet, and steady—just what the fields had been waiting for. It tapped the tin roof like a lullaby, washing dust from leaves and sinking deep into the thirsty soil. She sat on the porch swing, watching it all unfold—her boots muddy, coffee warm in hand. Then came the train. It rounded the bend beyond the pasture, its engine huffing soft clouds of steam. The metal shimmered in the rain, streaked with rust and memory. Cars clattered behind like a line of stories rolling through the mist. The whistle echoed low and kind, not jarring—just part of the morning, like the scent of wet hay or the creak of barn doors. She smiled. Rain meant life. The train meant something was on its way—seed, letters, or hope. Together, they moved through Mayberry like blessings, reminding her that even the quietest days were full of promise.

Shannon Truban is a wife, mom of two, and proud fur mom to Sir Chewbacca, or Chewy. She was born in Brunswick, Georgia, made a stop in Richmond, Virginia, and somehow ended up where she belongs in Mount Airy. Currently completing a degree at Surry Community College, Shannon says Mount Airy has been such a blessing. She finally found a community that feels like family and even got brave enough to share her voice at local Spoken Words events. “It’s been a beautiful journey, and I’m just getting started!”

Gold light glimmers and streams through the glass. I hold my bundle tight to my belly, anxious for the coming stop. The orange and amber leaves flash by trying to alleviate my fears, but only prove to cause my stomach to turn even further. Today my heart is urging my brain to understand that this is an exciting turn of events. It’s all I’ve wanted and worked for…

“Remember”

As Mary’s old wool coat scratches against my neck, I reminisce about our seaside chats, “You’re going to be so great, they’ll all love you!” Mary saw the vision, Mary echoed my excitement, Mary eased my fears, Mary is gone, and now I’m left with only me.

The rail wends from Elkin, Mount Airy to there Locomotive choo-chooing with great blasts of air!

Just as the metal on metal squelching started, I heard the conductor call “All passengers for Gate City!” I finally relaxed the hold on my books, my life, and my past. Maybe being a teacher in North Carolina is my calling. Maybe Mary was right.

Do you hear the distant call? The piercing whistle through your walls? It calls for you to remember.

Emily Morgan is a book enthusiast and a current Graduate student working towards her MLIS. She resides in Virginia with her 9 cats and partner, Dakota. You will often find her in a funny hat with a puppet in tow, reading books to kids and adults alike. She believes words are so important, no matter how you arrange them. "Once you learn to read, you will be forever free." Frederick Douglass

This rail is a lifeline, a connection, a touch A vein of lifeblood producing so much Like a steampunk internet making a way Before the digital linkings we know of today

This train brings us always together Through rain and sun and snowy weather

And though perception may have changed This train is there, it's still the same. It is an undercurrent, a backbone A foundation solid, made of stone. Our past and future are caught up in this. Remember.

I. Graham Smith enjoys writing and imagining odd things. He grew up in a relatively strange way compared to most Americans. Perhaps this upbringing is one of the reasons he writes, but ultimately, creativity comes from the Creator, and in that way Graham reflects the maker of all things.

January-February 2026

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Are you interested in becoming a beekeeper?

Check out your local beekeepers association! Most offer bee school for beginning beekeepers, and that is a great place to start your beekeeping journey. Yadkin Valley Beekeeper Associations are listed below. If available at press time, bee school start dates are listed. Information about additional dates, times, locations, materials and cost should be available on each association’s FaceBook page or website. You can also contact your local NC Cooperative Extension office or the North Carolina State Beekeepers Association at ncbeekeepers.org.

Alleghany County Beekeepers Facebook

Davidson County Beekeepers Association

Stokes County Beekeepers Association

davidsoncountybeekeepers.org Bee school begins January 10

Facebook/stokescountybeekeepers.org Bee school begins February 7

Davie County Beekeepers Association

Surry County Beekeepers

Facebook/daviebeekeepers.org Bee school begins January 24

Facebook/surrycountybeekeepers.org Bee school begins February 3, 2026

Forsyth County Beekeepers Association

Beekeepers of Wilkes

Facebook/fcba.wildapricot.org Bee school begins February 14

Facebook/beekeepersofwilkes.org

Iredell County Beekeepers Association Facebook/iredellbeekeepers.org

Yadkin County Beekeepers Association Facebook Bee school begins March 14

January-February 2026

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January-February 2026

Our staff of professionals looks forward to serving you

Our new expanded showroom means more in-stock Scooters and Lift Chairs We Offer Delivery and Service & Repairs

(336) 768-5512 • Open Monday- Friday 9-5:30 Now at 3033 Trenwest Drive, Winston-Salem, NC 27103

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Offering Medical Supplies and Equipment

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Caring For You Has Been Our Specialty for over 50 years

Rough and Finished Lumber Building Supplies & Hardware family owned • serving since 1947

Yadkin Lumber Company, Inc. 800 North State Street Yadkinville, NC (336) 679-2432 Monday-Friday 7:304:30 Saturday 7:30-12

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Family Owned Mulch & Stone Products too! Statesville Apothecary Products Local Homemade Soaps (Goat milk & Donkey milk) Southern Sisters Tallow Honey House Naturals-hand lotions and lip balms Grandma’s lye soap products Burt’s Bees Rainbow Sandals Simply Southern Apparel Lodge Cast Iron Pottery(Blackwelder & Jordan) Handmade furniture Corn Meal SoyworxCandles Jelly and Jams ENO Hammocks Cornhole Boards 1932 W. Memorial Hwy, Union Grove, NC 28689 704-539-4643 • uniongrovegeneralstore.com

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www.dentalvirtue.com January-February 2026

100 Virginia “Pete” Crater

100 Hazel Rierson

100 Josephine Key

105 Kate Shore

100 James Watts

Happy 100th Birthday! 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 Dec 1 to see them in the Jan/Feb issue. Photos mailed in will not be returned, so please send a copy.

100th Birthday yadkinvalleymagazine@gmail.com PO Box 2077 Yadkinville, NC 27055

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January-February 2026

If your guess is the first correct entry drawn

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What IS That? If your guess is the first correct entry drawn WIN $10000 The next two correct entries drawn win a copy of one of our Yadkin Valley Magazine cookbooks. 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 2/12/26, Winner will be drawn 2/13/26. The winners will be notified by mail and announced in the March/April 2026 issue. All entries become the property of Yadkin Valley Magazine. Turn to p. 82 to read about the November/December 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

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January-February 2026

What IS That?

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This is a chimney sweep tool. If you recognized it, maybe it was a good reminder to clean out your chimney this fall! Thanks to Jeff Matthews of Yadkinville for sharing it with Yadkin Valley Magazine. Janet Snow of State Road sent in a correct answer that was the first one drawn. She will receive $100 from Mock-Beroth Tire & Automotive and Yadkin Valley Magazine. Second and third place winners, Robinn Harris of Yadkinville and Cheryl Post of Millers Creek, will receive a Yadkin Valley Magazine cookbook. Thanks to all of you who entered, and be sure to keep entering. Don’t forget to include your mailing address, even if you enter by email, so that you can receive your prize.

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!

Thanks to our contest sponsor

Sadie Hopper Chloe

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Penny

send your pet pic to: yadkinvalleymagazine@gmail.com

See your cat, dog, bunny, horse, or hamster in the pages of Yadkin Valley Magazine. Send a photo to yadkinvalleymagazine@gmail.com

Bessie

Dolly

Ginger Doja

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Stella Rose, Mighty Max, Boomer

January-February 2026

The Business Section Take control: Why budgeting doesn’t have to feel restrictive Let’s be honest: The word “budget” doesn’t exactly spark joy for most people. It can feel restrictive or even generate feelings of guilt about past spending choices. But what if budgeting could feel empowering? When done right, it’s simply about understanding your money and making sure it aligns with what truly matters to you. Who needs a budget? While nearly everyone can benefit from budgeting, it’s especially helpful if you’re just starting out on your own, if your expenses exceed your income or if you're working toward a big goal like buying a home or retiring. Major life changes — marriage, a new baby, a job change or even retirement itself — are also perfect times to take a fresh look at your finances. If your spending causes you stress or you simply want clarity about where your money goes each month, budgeting can help. Here are a few tips to help get you started: •Dispense with the dread. Often, the hardest part of budgeting is just getting started. Try breaking it down into small, manageable steps, and dedicate 30 minutes a week to tracking your income and expenses. Pair budgeting with something enjoyable — a favorite coffee or a relaxing activity — to make it less of a chore. •If you have no idea how much you spend, start by simply observing your buying habits for a few months. Review your checking and credit card accounts to see money coming in and going out. You can’t change the past but you can adjust for your future. •Find your level of detail. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to budgeting. You might start by tracking just total income and expenses or by using the popular 50/30/20 rule: 50% for necessities, 30% for wants and 20% for savings and debt reduction. Some people prefer

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to build detailed categories for everything from groceries to entertainment, while others keep broader categories that work better for their lifestyles. •Technology can be your friend here. Budget apps and Ai-enabled spreadsheets can pull information directly from your bank and credit card statements, making the process much easier. •Make it work for you. Once you’ve tracked your spending, look for areas to adjust. Can you swap brand-name items for generics? Are there subscriptions you’re not using? Sometimes the biggest impact comes from examining your largest expenses — housing, utilities, transportation, insurance — to find opportunities to save. If you can’t make room in your budget, you may need to revisit and reprioritize your financial goals. A financial advisor can help you understand your options and any trade-offs. •Stay on track. Check in with your budget monthly, quarterly or annually — whatever works for you. When life changes, your budget should too. Salary increases, bonuses, new expenses or significant life events are all good reasons to review and adjust. •Above all, the goal of a budget isn’t perfection. It's progress toward financial confidence and peace of mind. A good budget shouldn't limit you — it should free you to spend guilt-free on what matters while saving intentionally for your future. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

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

Dobson

Mount Airy

Paul J. Bunke, Sr., CFP®, ChFC,®AAMS™

Andi Draughn Schnuck

Financial Advisor 124 W. Kapp Street, Suite C PO Box 407 Dobson, NC 27017 336-386-0846 paul.bunke@edwardjones.com

Financial Advisor 496 N. Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-789-1707 andi.schnuck@edwardjones.com

Dale Draughn, AAMS™

Tanner Joyce

Audra Cox, ABFP ™

Financial Advisor 140 Franklin Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-789-0136 dale.draughn@edwardjones.com

Financial Advisor 752 S. Andy Griffith Pkwy, Suite 400 Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-245-9112 tanner.joyce@edwardjones.com

Logan Draughn

Pilot Mountain

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

Elkin 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

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

Jonesville Aaron L. Misenheimer, CFP®, ChFC® Financial Advisor 1530 NC Hwy 67, Suite A Jonesville, NC 28642 336-258-2821 aaron.misenheimer@edwardjones.com

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

Tiffany L. Smith 106-B South Depot Street 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

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

edwardjones.com Member SIPC

January-February 2026

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“What Are You Looking For?” At a very early age, we are taught that germs are contagious. We tell children to cover their mouths when they cough and to wash their hands. It is almost guaranteed that if one person in the family gets the stomach virus, everyone is going to be sick too. We watched the whole world shut down in 2020 when the COVID-19 germ was passed from person to person. We know all too well that germs are infectious I wonder, what if God was just as infectious? What if you caught God just by being around another Christian? I don’t know about you, but I have known some people who had the God fever and I’ve caught it from them. They don’t cover their mouth or hide when they talk about God. They speak about God and Jesus boldly, as if they want to spread the God germ. They don’t wash their hands but they dig in on the hard stuff, get their hands dirty, and show up. They don’t hide inside but they go out in public and share their disease, a love for God, with everyone around them. Throughout the New Testament there are stories of people being changed by Jesus and his teachings. The disciple saw Jesus and immediately caught the Jesus germ. And no one was more contagious than John the Baptist. He didn’t hold back, he spread news of the Messiah to anyone who would listen. "What are you looking for?” Jesus asks his disciples. This is the theme at the center of the Bible. It is a story of people looking for many things - hope, security, healing, forgiveness, life everlasting and finding all these things in God. I also believe we are looking for these things. The Christian writer, Frederick Buechner, describes it best as a God-sized hole in our heart. Only God can fill that hole. People will do the craziest things to try to fill it. But nothing fits except God. We all have that God-sized hole. The mission of the church is to help people fill this hole and see Jesus. Churches are successful in this task some days and not so much on other days. Despite our rough track record, God’s preferred plan is still to use the church to help people find God. I know my local church helps me to see Jesus. And I work with churches all over North

Carolina who are working hard to help their community know Jesus’ love through community mission work. They use childcare centers, senior adult programs, summer reading camps, and many other methods to take the love of God outside the church walls and into their community. The church doesn’t have to be perfect, just to be faithful to this calling. Take a look at the people Jesus called to be his first disciples, they were far from perfect. Jesus did not call the important people at the temple. He did not try to find a top ranking Roman official to lead. He called fishermen to be his disciples. They did not go to seminary, they did not have college degrees, they had no experience in ministry, and they didn’t even have experience working with people. In fact, if I worked in Jesus’ human resource department, I would have recommended against these hires. But yet, they were chosen and they were good choices. They did an excellent job spreading the Christian message to the Roman world. Now as the church, we are the chosen ones to spread the message. We are called to stretch out our arms to openly invite all our neighbors to come and meet God. To tell the world the good news: “The One you have been searching for, to fill your God-sized hole in your heart, has been seeking you all along!” That is the good news Christians are called to share with the world. Open your arms wide, spread the God germ, and let your neighbors know about God’s love.

Closing Devotions

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.

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January-February 2026