November-December 2026
Christmas Recipes Veterans Day
Yadkin Valley Magazine Subscriptions Make Great Gifts! See page 51 for details!
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Merry Christmas!
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CONTENTS foodsandflavors
28 Eggs-the start of a Dozen Holiday Traditions 30 Holiday Meal Prep 32 Peanut Butter Passion
Home, Lawn & Garden
40 Flour, Salt...and Holiday Magic 44 Spring’s Secret Start: Planting Autumn Bulbs for Early Color 46 Winterizing the Herd for the Holidays: A Seasonal Maintenance Checklist 48 Mitchell’s Nursery and Greenhouse Named 2026 Innovator of the Year!
People, Places, Events
38 The Best Way to Spread Holiday Cheer... 56 The Grove Handbell Ensemble 58 NC Cooperative Extension, Forsyth County Center, Moves to New Facility 59 Freedom Truck 60 Overmountain Victory Trail in the Yadkin Valley 70 It’s All About the Dogs 74 Honor At Last 76 (Still) Serving With Honor
Wellness
42 Electric Bikes and Scooters
Readers Across the Yadkin Valley 72 Book Reviews 73 Northwest Regional Library News
In Every Issue
16 Recipe Box 20 Editor’s Letter 22 Beginnings 36 On the Cover 88 What IS That? 89 What IS That? Winners 91 100th Birthdays 92 Pets 94 Business Section 97 Closing Devotions
November-December 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. 12
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Inside YVM page 58
page 74
NEW LOCATION! 1405 Plaza Drive, Winston-Salem, conveniently located off Stratford Road and Healy Drive.
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For more information or to schedule a complimentary financial review, call or stop by today. www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
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.
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
136 W. Lebanon Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-789-6238 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
MADE in the USA
Hardwood Furniture All Crafted by the Amish In Stock Furniture Custom Design Available ery Deliv le! ab Avail
607 S. Main Street, King, NC 336.985.8109 barnstar59@gmail.com www.barnstarnc.com
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31 Air Fryer Apples 33 Basic Pie Crust 28 Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies 26 German Chocolate Pie 24 Ginger Cookies 35 Gray’s Prime Rib 40 Grinch Cookies 39 Holiday Tree Brownies 34 Homemade Albóndigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) 33 Peanut Butter Pie 28 Pumpkin Spice Gooey Butter Bars 26 Quick Butterscotch Fudge 36 Snickerdoodles 38 Snowman Bark 29 Sweet Potato Souffle 37 Tor’s Sugar Cookies
Merry Christmas!
From the coziness of your bedroom, to the library’s shelves filled 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
Wendy Hutchens, RN Director of Nursing
Candy Crissmon EVS Supervisor
G. W. Kearney Social Worker
Joe Danforth Maintenance Supervisor
Michaela Henderson Activity Director
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.
Yadkin Nursing Center is proud to be a part of Wilmington, North Carolina’s Liberty Healthcare. This well known, well respected partner brings resources and years of experience to providing our residents only the best in care.
November-December 2026
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Schedule routine maintenance now so that you will know your system can keep your family warm when the temperatures drop! 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.
We’re really good at helping keep your family comfortable
Need repair service NOW?
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Our services also include:
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Seal Ducts Carbon Monoxide Detectors Preventive Tune-Ups
Scheduling a BI-ANNUAL TUNE-UP for your heating and cooling system is as easy as calling K&V Heating & Air Conditioning today at 336-699-2088.
A little money spent in preventative tune-ups can save you big money and stress for emergency repairs when temperatures soar and dip.
K V &
HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING INC
304 NC Hwy 67 East Bend, NC
(336) 699-2088 kvheatingair.com 18
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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 yadkin valleyweekends.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 Valley Magazine Yadkin Magazine publication ofof isisaapublication Crossroads LLC. Crossroads Publishing, Publishing, LLC. PO 2077 PO Box Box 2077 Yadkinville, NC27055 27055 Yadkinville, NC 336-961-2620 336-961-2620 yadkinvalleymagazine@ January-February gmail.com2024 November-December Volume 24 Number 32026 Volume 27 Number 2 PUBLISHER LeahPUBLISHER Wagoner Williams Leah Wagoner Williams
It’s Going to be a Delicious Holiday When you Cook with, and Serve our
Naturally Wholesome Products ENJOY ALL OF OUR FRESH DAIRY PRODUCTS!
ADVERTISING SALES ASSISTANT EDITORS Victoria Williams Leah Wagoner Williams Rebecca Williams Ken & Denise Knight ADVERTISINGWRITERS SALES CONTRIBUTING Leah Wagoner Williams Isenhour KenPeggy & Denise Knight Dr. Heather Kilbourne Carmen Long CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kellee Payne Scott Duckworth Lisa Isenhour Prince Peggy June Rollins Chelsea Johnson Courtney Tevepaugh Madaline Jones Dr. Heather Kilbourne Karen Wagoner Carmen Long Jill Walker Sharee Parker Jessica Payne Wall Kellee Patty LisaWilliams Prince June Rollins LeslieWilliams Rose Victoria Jessica Wall Chelsea Johnson Rebecca Williams Madaline Jones Molly Johnson & PHOTOGRAPHS PHOTOGRAPHERS Sharee Parker Scott Duckworth Peggy Isenhour PHOTOGRAPHS & Chelsea Johnson PHOTOGRAPHERS Madaline Jones Carmen Long Carmen Long Lisa Prince Sharee Parker KelleeJohnson Payne Chelsea June Rollins June Rollins Leslie Rose Madaline Jones Leah Williams Molly Johnson Rebecca Williams Leah Williams DISTRIBUTION Rebecca Williams Gray & Amber Harris Victoria Williams Ken & Denise Knight Sharee Parker Michael Scott Kellee Payne Mark Williams RebeccaTevepaugh Williams Courtney Peggy Isenhour DISTRIBUTION Rebecca Cranfill Ken & Denise Knight Debbie & Andy Hennings Michael Scott
Grass Fed Cow’s Milk Whole Cow’s Milk Buttermilk Half & Half ✦ Heavy Cream Chocolate Milk ✦ Kefir Flavored Yogurt ✦ Smoothies
The perfect Holiday dessert & topping...our ice creams! Special flavors coming after
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Egg Nog
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Our ice cream is hand crafted on our farm, in small batches and available in a variety of flavors & sizes
BEEF & PORK AVAILABLE Vacuum packed to ensure freshness!
Wishing you a Joyous Christmas
Naturally Wholesome Products 6400 Windsor Road, Hamptonville 336-468-1520 Farm Store Open Monday-Saturday 9:00-5:00
a line from leah So many things to be thankful for! I enjoyed speaking to many readers at recent festivals-thank you for coming by and for all the kind words you shared about the magazine. If you have commented on social media, emailed, or sent a sweet note with your What IS That? entry, please know that I read them all. It just is not possible to respond to each one, but I am so very grateful for the loyal readers who continue to be eager for each issue of Yadkin Valley Magazine! I have to thank my advertisers, too, since the magazine would not be possible without them. Please remember these local businesses, whether you need a service they provide or you can shop their selections for holiday gifts or maybe you need to treat yourself. This holiday season, and always, shop small when you can! Of course, my family gives me support that makes this whole adventure work, and saying “thank you” never seems like quite enough. I also want to give a shout out for the sweetest tribute. My young friend, Sarah, lives out of state now, but she chose to decorate her apartment with Yadkin Valley Magazine covers! Thank you, Sarah, for such a display of support! I feel like Thanksgiving is barely a moment to pause in the Christmas rush that comes earlier each year, but I hope that you can take some time for it this year. There is always something to be thankful for. In this issue, of course you will find Christmas recipes to try, but you don’t have to save them for the holidays. There is no shortage of Yadkin Valley topics that continue the America 250 celebration, but while those stories about our past are great, I wanted to also celebrate those who have protected our freedoms more recently. I hope that you will enjoy several articles highlighting local veterans and their activities. Blessings to all of you in this season of gratitude and giving!
Trying out a YVM recipe? Be sure to tag us on social media if you post a picture!
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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 2026 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 consequential damage or any damages in excess of the cost of the advertisement.
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A multi-faceted painting company…we’re Member Yadkin County Chamber of Commerce
416 East Main Street Yadkinville, NC (336) 469-0080 www.PaintandCoatingsLTD.com November-December 2026
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beginnings with June Rollins
Visit June’s website at: www.junerollins.com
A Table For Two In my late twenties, I was an interior designer for Ethan Allen. One of the perks was buying furniture at cost, plus ten percent to cover shipping. I lived into the offer. My biggest investment was a Queen Anne dining room table and six chairs with upholstered seats that I’d held onto for forty-four years. When we decided to downsize last month, there would be no room for this prized possession. AI helped write the description: Vintage Ethan Allen Hard Rock Maple Dining Set - Excellent (60”L x 40”W Table, 2 -15” Leaves, E.A. CustomPads, 6 Chairs) Beautiful, authentic vintage Ethan Allen’s Circa 1776 Collection solid hard rock maple oval dining table with 6 matching Queen Anne chairs. This is a gorgeous, incredibly durable heirloom set in exceptional condition. A jeep towing a flatbed utility trailer backed down our driveway and loaded it up a few days ago. The couple was delighted. I steadied my voice and called out as they were leaving. Enjoy! I hope you make many happy memories around the table! But what about us? In our seventies and tableless. I didn’t have long to wonder. My husband found it. A 39” round drop-leaf table with four Windsor side chairs at Habitat for Humanity that looked like it had been stored in someone’s basement for a century. I swallowed. I can restore this! It’s the best size for our space! I considered the peeling white paint and mildewed chair seats. It was solid wood but the two-toned dinette set needed help. What do you think? HIs eyes shone bright and his voice held a determined hope that bowled me over. Rob’s Restorations has been in full force the past four days. We now have a completely restored, gorgeous dinette set. Satin espresso has replaced peeling white and warm maple surfaces are once again glowing. In our new space, two chairs with the table leaves down will be perfect. Just in time for the holidays, we’ll be making cozy new memories at our table for two. I think this will be calling for candlelight, don’t you? If you want to make room for something new, you must let go of something old that no longer serves you. Roy T. Bennett
Wishing everyone the joy of all things new this Holiday Season!
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foodsandflavors™~ Gluten Free with Peggy Isenhour
Many people consider November and December their favorite time of year because these months are filled with traditions, gratitude, celebration and opportunities to spend time with loved ones. While every season has its charm, the closing months of the year often feel especially meaningful. Holiday meals, homemade cookies pies, soups and family recipes become cherished traditions. For many Christians, Thanksgiving is a reminder to thank God for His blessings while Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, bringing a message of hope, peace, joy, and love. November fills our hearts with gratitude and December fills them with hope. Together they remind us that the richest blessings in life are found in faith, family, kindness, and love. This month’s recipe is Ginger cookies. Few treats capture the spirit of the holidays quite like ginger cookies. Their warm blend of ginger, cinnamon, cloves and molasses fills the kitchen with the unmistakable aroma of Thanksgiving and Christmas. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee, shared at a cookie exchange, or wrapped as a homemade gift, these timeless cookies remind us that the sweetest moments of the season are often the ones spent together with family and friends. If you are cooking gluten free, I have included in parentheses the brands I prefer. Happy Thanksgiving! Merry Christmas! Blessings!
Ginger Cookies ¾ cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar, plus additional for rolling 1 large egg, room temperature ¼ cup molasses 2 ¼ cups all purpose flour (King Arthur Measure for Measure gluten free flour) 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon salt In a large bowl, cream butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy scraping bowl as needed for 5-7 minutes. Beat in egg and molasses. Combine flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Troll into 1 ½ “ balls, then roll in additional sugar. Place 2’ apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350° until puffy and lightly browned, 10-12 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool.
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YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON DESTINATION!
Unique Foods & Gifts for Everyone on Your List! Treat Yourself to a Mill Creek Deluxe Roast Beef, Bacon, Pimento Cheese, w/Herb-Mayo, Muenster Cheese, Lettuce & Tomato on Marble Rye
Authentic Southern Fruitcakes by Southern Supreme in Bear Creek, NC Fruitcakes Available in 8 oz, 1 lb, 2 lb & 3 lb Sizes
Grab Some Delicious Fruitcake Cookies Holiday Earth Rugs - Beautify Your Home
Warmies Make Great Gifts for Everyone!
Silver Forest Earrings She Will Love Them
Christmas Jams, Jellies, Mincemeats, Apple Butters, Pumpkin Butters, Salsas and More!
Local Family Owned & Operated Since 2013
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foodsandflavors™~ with ShaRee Parker
German Chocolate Pies 3 cups granulated sugar 1/2 cup butter, melted 4 eggs, beaten 1 (12 ounces) can evaporated milk 5 tablespoons baking cocoa Pinch of salt 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1 teaspoon almond extract 2 cups coconut 1 cup chopped pecans 3 – 9-inch pie shells, unbaked (or 24 tart shells) Whipped cream for garnish, if desired Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. In a large mixing bowl combine all ingredients and beat until well blended. Pour the batter into 3 unbaked pie shells (or 24 tart shells). Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes or until set for 3 pies. If using tart shells, reduce baking time. When cool, garnish with whipped cream if desired. This is a great holiday recipe for Thanksgiving or Christmas since it makes 3 pies or 24 tarts that you can share with family and friends.
Quick Butterscotch Fudge 3 1/2 cups sugar 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk 1 box butterscotch pudding (NOT instant) 1/4 cup butter 1 teaspoon vanilla
Enjoy this recipe for Quick Butterscotch Fudge from the One Last Sweet Bite Cookbook! Want your own copy of this and other great Yadkin Valley Magazine cookbooks? See page 51 for more information! 26
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Boil together first three ingredients until soft ball stage. Remove from heat. Add butter and vanilla. Stir. Let cool or nearly so. Stir until mixture loses its gloss and thickens. Pour into dish. When completely cool cut into squares. Makes about 2 1/2 pounds of candy.
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foodsandflavors ™~ with Lisa Prince
Eggs – the start of a Dozen Holiday Traditions Great holiday baking begins with eggs. We are sharing recipes here that are perfect for the Fall and Winter season. But as a bonus, if you visit our website, you can explore 12 irresistible cookie recipes, https://ncegg.org/eggs-the-start-of-a-dozenholiday-traditions/. These cookie recipes are made for sharing and creating memories with the people you love.
PUMPKIN SPICE GOOEY BUTTER BARS https://ncegg.org/recipe/pumpkin-spice-gooey-butter-cake/
Ingredients Director, NC Egg Association
CRANBERRY WHITE CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES https://ncegg.org/recipe/cranberry-white-chocolatecookies/
Ingredients 2 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup granulated sugar 1 cup white chocolate chips 1 package (6 ounces) dried sweetened cranberries 1⁄2 teaspoon baking powder 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 1⁄2 cup butter, softened 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions For Dry Cranberry White Chocolate Cookie Mix, combine all ingredients in a clear 2-quart container with a tight fitting lid. Cover with lid. Store in a cool dry place until ready to give as a gift. To make cookies, preheat the oven to 350°F. Combine 1 container dry cookie mix with butter in a large mixing bowl. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing until well combined after each addition. Stir in vanilla until blended. Drop dough using a tablespoonful for each cookie onto an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until light golden brown. Let cool on a cookie sheet on a wire rack for 1 minute. Remove and cool completely.
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3⁄4 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar 1⁄4 cup granulated sugar 1⁄2 cup plus 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and divided 5 large eggs 1 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1⁄2 teaspoon kosher salt 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened 1 (15 ounces) can pumpkin puree 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 3 3⁄4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted 1⁄4 teaspoon ground ginger 1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1⁄8 teaspoon ground allspice 1⁄8 teaspoon ground cloves Confectioner’s sugar, add as much as desired
Instructions Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Spray a 13×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray. Line pan with parchment paper, letting excess extend over sides of pan; spray pan again. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, 6 tablespoons (84 grams) of melted butter, and 2 eggs (100 grams). Add flour, baking powder, and salt, whisking until smooth. Spread into bottom of prepared pan; set aside In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat cream cheese at medium-low speed until smooth. Add pumpkin, and beat until combined, 2 to 3 minutes. Add vanilla extract, remaining 3 eggs (150 grams), and remaining 1⁄2 cup (113 grams) melted butter, beating until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves, beating until well combined. Pour over the cake base and gently shake the pan back and forth to help spread in an even layer, smooth with an offset spatula, if necessary. Bake until the center is slightly set, about 40 minutes. (The top will look dry and the center will jiggle together with the rest of the pan.) Let cool completely in the pan. (The center will sink slightly.) Using excess parchment as handles, remove from pan. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
SWEET POTATO SOUFFLE https://ncegg.org/recipe/sweetpotato-souffle/
Souffle Ingredients 1 pound sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1″ cubes 1⁄4 cup brown sugar 3 large eggs, separated 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1⁄4 cup evaporated milk or whole milk 1⁄4 cup unsalted butter, melted 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1⁄2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon allspice 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1⁄2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Topping Ingredients (Optional) 2 tablespoons melted butter 1⁄4 cup brown sugar 1⁄4 cup flour 2-3 oz walnuts or pecans, chopped 1/3 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions Rinse, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into chunks, then add to a medium saucepan. Cover the potatoes with water by at least an inch. Bring to a boil over high heat and then reduce the heat. Cook until tender and potatoes are easily pierced with a fork – about 12-15 minutes or more depending on the size of the potatoes. Drain water and simmer for about a minute or until water has evaporated. Transfer potatoes into a bowl and mash using a masher or spoon. Separate the eggs, then add yolks to the bowl of mashed sweet potatoes. Add brown sugar, vanilla extract, and evaporated milk. Thoroughly mix using a handheld mixer, a stand mixer works just as well. Add the melted butter and mix, followed by the flour, baking powder, salt, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Continue mixing until thoroughly combined. In a medium bowl, beat the whites until they form stiff, glossy peaks. This helps the souffle from being too dense-do not overbeat. Gently fold a third of the egg whites into the sweet potato mixture using a large spatula. This initially lightens up the mixture and prepares the batter for the remaining egg whites. Spray a 2-quart casserole or divide it into ramekins. Bake for 25 minutes or until well puffed and slightly brown on top. Do not open the oven door for at least 20 minutes to prevent cold air from collapsing the souffle. Souffle will deflate slightly when removed from the oven. (Optional) Take the sweet potato souffle out of the oven after 23 minutes of baking. Add toppings and broil in the oven for about 2-3 minutes or until the marshmallows turn slightly brown.
Cranberry White Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pumpkin Spice Gooey Butter Bars
November-December 2026
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foodsandflavors ™~
Holiday Meal Prep
with Chelsea Johnson
Written by: More In My Basket Adapted by Chelsea Johnson, FCS Agent, Yadkin County The holiday season is approaching, and you may be planning a celebration for friends and family in one big group or in smaller gatherings. Regardless of the logistics, it is never too early to start holiday meal preparation. If left to the last minute, meal planning can be a challenge no matter how many people you are serving. Planning your menu in advance allows the opportunity to create your favorite dishes while spending smarter. Today we have some ideas that you can incorporate this month to get ahead of planning for the big days this holiday season.
Financial planning
Family & Consumer Sciences Agent N.C. Cooperative Extension Yadkin County Center Cooperative Extension Chelsea_Johnson@ncsu.edu Follow along on Facebook @YadkinCountyFCS
When it comes to financial planning for your meal budget during the holidays, it's essential to start with a clear picture of your overall expenses. Begin by determining how many gatherings or meals you’ll be hosting and what type of cuisine you want to serve. Allocate a specific amount of money for groceries and ingredients, considering both traditional holiday dishes and any special requests from guests. To keep costs down, plan meals with similar ingredients, allowing for bulk purchases and minimizing waste. Don’t forget to include expenses for decorations, table settings, and drinks in your budget. Lastly, keep an eye out for sales and discounts in advance to maximize your savings, ensuring that your holiday meals are delicious without breaking the bank.
Take inventory of what you already have Before creating a shopping list, check to see what you have available at home already in your pantry, fridge and freezer. Then, take note of items that have a later expiration date and can be used while preparing your meals, such as canned foods and spices. Next, find holiday recipes that can combine most of the foods you already have at home and create a consolidated list to avoid buying too many bottles of the same items, for example.
ham, a whole chicken or a large pork loin. Getting creative with your meals can add variety and help your wallet. When comparing prices, check to see if it is more cost and time effective to prepare a dish from scratch or to buy preprepared dishes. Some vegetables and fruits can be cheaper when they are frozen or canned, so consider choosing what makes the most sense for you and your family. Don’t forget to visit food banks in your area that may have special holiday distributions as well.
Smart shopping
Preparation and waste reduction
Once you are ready to shop, compare prices between different grocery stores either online before you leave the house or by visiting the stores yourself before making a large purchase. For example: If you do not want to spend a lot of your budget on a turkey, you can compare prices between selections of turkey breasts, a
When preparing your meals, clean all surfaces before and after you are done cooking. This cleaning process, along with washing your hands, helps avoid the spread of foodborne illnesses in the kitchen area and among your family and friends. Then, plan how many hours you need until party time to get all dishes ready to go. Consider using recipes that focus on transforming different parts of the food items you have into other dishes. Examples include making vegetable stock from peelings and ends, using bread heels for stuffing and frying potato skins for a snack. After the party is over, save all leftovers for the next couple of days, but freeze any items that may go bad quickly. That way, you are guaranteed to have multiple meals ready in the next week.
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Air Fryer Apples Ingredients 4 small/medium apples, we use Gala 1½ teaspoons cinnamon, separated 1 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 tablespoons butter, melted 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions Remove apple cores and slice into 1/2-inch slices. (You can remove the apple peels or keep the skin on.) Toss apples in oil, vanilla and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Add apples to the air fryer basket (lightly spritzed with oil if desired, but not necessary). Arrange evenly trying not to overlap as much as possible. Air fry for 10 minutes or until soft and tender, shaking apples halfway through to shift. When apples are cooked, transfer to a bowl and toss with butter, remaining teaspoon of cinnamon and sugar. Serve immediately. This recipe was obtained from https://lemonsandzest.com/air-fryer-apples/
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foodsandflavors ™~ with Carmen Long
Family & Consumer Sciences Agent N.C. Cooperative Extension Surry & Alleghany County Centers
Peanut Butter Passion November and December bring some of our favorite holidays, but there is one you may not have observed. November is National Peanut Butter Lover’s Month. As much as my family and I love peanut butter and peanut butter flavored foods, celebrating is a delicious opportunity. Growing up, peanut butter suckers (peanut butter on a spoon) were one of my favorite snacks. Peanut butter sandwiches, combined with honey or marshmallow cream, frequented my lunch box. We loved peanut butter cookies, peanut butter candy and really anything else made with this versatile product. I have never tried a peanut butter recipe I didn’t like. We always had two jars of peanut butter in our house, one crunchy and one smooth. My mom is the crunchy lover and my dad prefers smooth. He always says, “why would you want to tear holes in your bread trying to spread crunchy peanut butter?” Evidently I spread softer than he does, since I too enjoy the crunchy variety and don’t end up with holes in my bread. My husband on the other hand prefers smooth so we also boast two jars of peanut butter in our pantry. According to the National Peanut Board, 60% of consumers prefer creamy peanut butter over crunchy. Surprisingly to me, research shows most women prefer creamy while men choose crunchy, just the opposite from how it is in my house. The National Peanut Board http://nationalpeanutboard.org/ website is full of recipes and interesting facts to increase our knowledge of peanuts and peanut butter. Peanuts are grown commercially in 13 states with Georgia at the lead producing 50%. I was proud to see North Carolina ranks in the top six growing 8%. It takes about 540 peanuts to make a 12-ounce jar of peanut butter and enough peanuts are grown in one acre to make 30,000 peanut butter sandwiches. That’s a lot of peanut butter sandwiches! In college, peanut butter became the staple when the dining hall didn’t have anything very exciting. I discovered that mixing peanut butter with soft serve ice cream made a delicious treat. I especially liked using the chocolate ice cream from the soft serve machine and added 20 pounds to my frame my freshman year in part from this delicious new creation. A good variety of “all you could eat” desserts didn’t help the situation either. Now chocolate peanut butter fudge milkshakes are a treat when I need to splurge. Sharing one with someone special helps by cutting those calories in half, so ask for an extra cup and divide it into two servings. Our daughter, Kelsey, recently shared a peanut butter snack that my neighbor used to make when I was growing up, but somehow, I had forgotten. When you need a quick and easy treat, spread peanut butter on a saltine cracker, top with a large marshmallow and broil until lightly brown. These delicacies are delicious and addictive. We have also tried adding a hazelnut chocolate spread, yummy. The possibilities for peanut butter creations are endless. I hope you will enjoy some of my family’s peanut butter favorites as we all work towards consuming the American average of more than seven pounds of peanuts and peanut butter products each year. These recipes will not only add to your holiday celebrations but make any day special. Source: National Peanut Board
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This family favorite pie was my husband Brent’s request for his recent birthday celebration and enjoyed by all.
Peanut Butter Pie 1 cup powdered sugar 1/3 cup peanut butter 1 baked pie crust ¾ cup sugar ¼ cup cornstarch 2 cups milk 2 egg yolks 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 large tablespoon peanut butter Whipped topping Mix together powdered sugar and 1/3 cup peanut butter to form crumbs. Spread half of the crumbs in the baked pie crust. Blend sugar and cornstarch together and add milk and egg yolks to make filling. Cook until thick in a heavy saucepan on low heat, stirring frequently (can cook in the microwave in a large glass bowl, stirring every two minutes until thickened). Add vanilla and a large tablespoon of peanut butter, stirring well. Pour over the crumbs in the pie crust. Cool. Top with whipped topping when ready to serve. Garnish with grated chocolate or chocolate syrup if desired. It is also delicious in a chocolate cookie crust. This pie crust recipe is from the Noble County Indiana Extension Homemakers Cookbook. My grandmother was a member there for over 50 years.
Basic Pie Crust Makes 1 – 9 inch pie crust 1/3 cup butter flavored Crisco 1 cup all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon salt 2-3 tablespoons cold water Cut shortening into flour and salt until particles are the size of small peas. Sprinkle in water, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing with a fork until all flour is moistened and pastry almost cleans the side of the bowl. Gather pastry into a ball, shape into flattened round on lightly floured cloth or wax paper. Roll pastry 2 inches larger than inverted pie plate with a flour-covered rolling pin. Fold pastry into fourths, unfold and ease into plate, pressing firmly against bottom and side. Trim the overhanging edge of the pastry and crimp edges. Heat oven to 475 degrees (425 degrees if using a dark metal pan.) Prick sides and bottom of pie thoroughly with fork. Bake until light brown, 8 to 10 minutes.
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 7:30-4:30 Saturday 7:30-12
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foodsandflavors ™~ with Virginia Lopez
Homemade Albóndigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) Prep time: 20 mins Cook time: 45- 60 mins Servings: 4-6
Ingredients For the Broth Base
Family & Consumer Sciences Agent NC Cooperative Extension Forsyth County Center https://forsyth.ces.ncsu.edu/
As the holidays quickly approach, our calendars fill up fast with gift shopping, menuplanning, and preparing our homes for out-of-town guests. Before the big holiday feastsand elaborate recipes take over your kitchen, give your family a comforting breatherwith a soul-warming bowl of Mexican Albóndigas Soup. Drawing on my Hispanicheritage, this traditional meatball and vegetable soup is pure cozy comfort—simple toprepare, deeply flavorful, and perfect for keeping everyone happily fed and relaxed before the festive rush truly begins.
1 green bell pepper, roughly chopped 2–3 tomatoes, quartered 1 medium onion, quartered 2 cloves garlic Small bunch of fresh cilantro 1 packet Goya Achiote (Sazón) 1–2 tbsp chicken bouillon (to taste) Garlic salt, black pepper, and extra salt to taste 6–8 cups water
Ingredients For the Albóndigas (Meatballs) 1 pound of ground meat (50/50 blend of lean beef & 85/15 beef, or ground turkey & 85/15 beef) 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 1/4 cup finely chopped tomato 1/2 to 1 full can el Pato / spicy red sauce (optional for mild heat) 1 large egg Binder: 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, bread stuffing mix, or allpurpose flour Rice: 1/4 to 1/2 cup raw white rice Spices: 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Garlic salt to taste Vegetables & Aromatics 2-3 medium potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch coins or cubes 2 carrots, sliced into coins 1–2 zucchini, sliced 2 stalks celery, chopped 1-2 large lemons (for the broth and to squeeze once served (optional) Fresh mint leaves (a few sprigs) Fresh oregano sprigs (optional)
Enjoy with either: Warm corn tortillas Tortilla chips Cooked white rice
continued on p. 37
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We appreciate your business!
Merry Christmas from Mt. Airy Meat Center We have what you need for holiday dishes, or quick everyday meals! Wings • Steaks • Burgers • Pork the freshest cuts of meats fresh breads • sides Like and follow Mt. Airy Meat Center on Facebook to learn about our specials and how you can win great products!
USDA PRIME and CHOICE Meats Inspected Daily
Quality without Question
133 Old Buck Shoals Road • Mount Airy 336-786-2023 Monday-Friday 9-6 Saturday 9-5 (closed 1-2 for lunch, Mon-Thurs)
Gray’s Prime Rib 🍴Pre-heat oven to 500 degrees. 🍴Rub roast with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, fresh rosemary, and oregano. Leave out of refrigerator for about 30 minutes after seasoning. 🍴Place in 500 degree oven for 15 minutes with fat side up. 🍴Remove from oven, cool oven to 350 degrees by leaving door open. Put roast back in oven until internal temperature is: 140 for Rare 145 for Medium Rare 150 for Medium to Well Done 🍴Let stand for 10 minutes.
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On the Cover with Victoria Williams If you ask what my favorite season is, “summer” will be out of my mouth before you finish your question. But during the seasons of less sunlight and colder temperatures, baked goods are the one silver lining. These recipes are brought to you by Tor’s Kitchen out of Jacksonville, FL (but I’m a Yadkin County native, so follow us on Facebook or Instagram to keep an eye out for your chance to try some locally!).
Snickerdoodles (Yields 12-18 cookies)
Ingredients: Cookies: 1 stick of salted butter (room temperature) ½ cup of granulated sugar cup of light brown sugar 1 egg + 1 egg yolk (room temperature) 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream) 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon cream of tartar ½ tablespoon of cornstarch 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon of baking soda ½ teaspoon of salt
Cinnamon sugar coating: ½ cup of granulated sugar 4 tablespoons of ground cinnamon Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare your baking sheet-I recommend a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer, combine the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. This should take approximately 3 minutes. Incorporate the whole egg and egg yolk before adding in the greek yogurt and vanilla. Mix until just combined. In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the remaining dry ingredients. Add to the wet mixture and mix until just combined. This will be a sticky dough! In a small, shallow bowl, mix the remaining sugar and cinnamon. Shape approximately 2 tablespoons of dough into a ball and coat it with the cinnamon sugar. Place on the baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The cookies should be pale in color but starting to wrinkle when you remove them from the oven. Let cool on the cookie sheet for 5-10 minutes as they will continue to bake as they cool. This helps them stay perfectly soft, it’s worth the wait! *Optional step: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, while still on the pan, use a cookie cutter, small bowl, or other round object to swirl around the cookie to help it shape into a perfect circle!
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Tor’s Sugar Cookies (Yields approximately 15 cookies) These can be easily adjusted with any theme of sprinkles to match any holiday or occasion!
Ingredients: 1 cup of salted butter at room temperature 1.5 cups of granulated sugar 1 egg + 1 egg yolk at room temperature 1 tablespoon of whole milk 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon of almond extract 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder ¾ teaspoon of salt ½ teaspoon of baking soda ½ cup to 1 cup of sprinkles Set aside: ¼ cup of granulated sugar for rolling the dough Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and prepare your baking sheet. I recommend a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. Incorporate the egg and egg yolk, milk, and vanilla extra to the butter and sugar mixture until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients (aside from the reserved sugar). Slowly incorporate the dry into the wet with the mixer until the dough forms. Being careful not to over-mix, begin adding in your sprinkles just as there are a few streaks of flour remaining. Shape approximately 2 tablespoons of dough into a bowl and coat in remaining sugar. Place onto the baking sheet and bake for 8-12 minutes. You want the edges set and just barely golden but slightly soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes as they will continue to bake as they cool. This helps them stay perfectly soft, it’s worth the wait! *Optional step: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, while still on the pan, use a cookie cutter, small bowl, or other round object to swirl around the cookie to help it shape into a perfect circle!
Homemade Albóndigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup) continued from p. 34 Instructions Blend and Simmer the Broth: 1. Add the green bell pepper, tomatoes, onion, garlic cloves, fresh cilantro, Goya achiote,chicken bouillon, garlic salt, black pepper, and salt to a blender with a splash of water. Blend until smooth. Pour into a large soup pot, add 6 to 8 cups of water, and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Form the Meatballs: 2. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, chopped onions, chopped tomatoes, spicy sauce, egg, your binder choice (breadcrumbs or flour), raw white rice, dried oregano, ground cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, and garlic salt. Knead everything together until just combined. Gently roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Cook and Check Meatballs: 3. Slowly add the meatballs, one by one, to the simmering
broth. Cover and cook. After 35 minutes, taste a meatball to check the rice inside; if it's not done, keep cooking until the rice is fully soft and cooked through. This is the perfect time to squeeze a full lemon to the simmering broth. Add Vegetables and Herbs: 4. About 15 minutes before done, add the sliced potatoes, carrots, zucchini, celery, fresh mint leaves, and fresh oregano sprigs to the pot. Simmer until the vegetables are fork-tender. Adjust and Serve: 5. Taste the broth and adjust with extra salt or chicken bouillon if needed. Ladle into deep bowls. Squeeze a little lemon and serve hot alongside warm corn tortillas or tortilla chips, or spooned over a scoop of white rice.. Tip for Faster Cooking: If you use cooked white rice inside the meatball mix instead of raw rice, reduce total cooking time to 20–30 minutes, adding your vegetables after the first 10 minutes of simmering.
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The Best Way to Spread Holiday Cheer Is by Baking Treats for All to Share! The holidays are known for bringing people together, which often involves baking yummy, sweet treats. This holiday season, consider creating some of these fun recipes made by local 4-H’ers! Every year, Yadkin County 4-H hosts a holiday baking workshop right after youth get out of school for break and just before the holidays begin. This is always an exciting event because participants not only get to bake, but they also get to be creative by making unique treats that might not yet be a part of their family traditions.
4-H Agent N.C. Cooperative Extension Yadkin County Center madaline_jones@ncsu.edu
First up is a fun, customizable Snowman Bark! Ingredients and Supplies: 2 cups milk chocolate chips 1 tablespoon shortening (optional) White candy melts Pretzel sticks White nonpareil sprinkles Black and orange candy color (or black and orange food writers) Small paintbrush (Feel free to add fun candies, switch up the chocolate, and just have fun with it!)
Instructions: Line a baking tray with wax paper and set aside. Have your white candy melts, pretzel sticks, and sprinkles ready. Place the chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 90 seconds at 70% power. Stir and continue to microwave at 30-second—then 15-second—intervals until fully melted and smooth. Spread the melted chocolate onto the baking tray. Immediately arrange three white candy melts in a row to form each snowman, scattering them across the chocolate. Add pretzel sticks for arms, then scatter white sprinkles over the chocolate base. Place a few drops of black and orange candy color on a piece of wax paper. Use the paintbrush (or food writers) to paint eyes, mouths, and carrot noses on each snowman. Let the tray sit at room temperature for about an hour to set, or place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Once set, cut or break the bark into pieces around the snowmen.
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Another fun, customizable treat is Holiday Tree Brownies—and it doesn't get much easier than this! Ingredients and Supplies: 1 box brownie mix of your choice (or blondie mix for a delicious substitute), prepared according to package directions for an 8x8-inch pan Green icing (or white icing for a snowy tree) Assorted sprinkles (including a star sprinkle for the top) Red and green candies Pretzel sticks or candy canes (for the tree trunks)
Instructions: Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and lightly coat with nonstick cooking spray. Prepare and bake the brownie mix according to the package directions. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Use the foil handles to lift the brownies out of the pan. Slice them into three long rows, then cut alternating diagonals within each row to create triangle shapes. Insert a pretzel stick or piece of candy cane into the bottom edge of each triangle to form the tree trunk. Spoon your icing into a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with a small corner snipped off), or simply spread it using a butter knife. Pipe or spread the icing across each tree as desired. Decorate with your favorite sprinkles, red and green candies, and a star sprinkle on top! I hope you will try one or both of these fun treats with your family this holiday season! Interested in learning more about 4-H? Feel free to contact your local extension agent or me! North Carolina Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity provider, and everyone is welcome to reach out for more information about our programs. You can contact me directly at 336849-7908 or by email at madaline_jones@ncsu.edu. If you live outside Yadkin County, you can easily find your local 4-H agent by searching online for your county's Cooperative Extension office.
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Grinch Cookies By Liam Wilbanks, Cloverbud Ingredients 2½ cups all-purpose flour 2½ cups powdered sugar 1 tablespoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt ½ cup unsalted butter cubed and softened 2 large eggs 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Green gel food coloring ½ cup cornstarch Red heart-shaped sprinkles or cinnamon candies
Directions Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 2 cups of powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut the butter into tablespoons and drop the pieces into the flour mixture. Add the eggs and vanilla. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until combined. Add 2 drops of food coloring if desired, and beat until well incorporated, making sure there are no white streaks in the dough. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and the remaining ½ cup of powdered sugar. Scoop the dough into 1½ tablespoon-sized balls. Roll each between the palms of your hands to form a ball, then roll in the cornstarch mixture until well coated. Place each ball about 3 inches apart, on prepared baking sheets and slightly press down on the tops. Bake for 12 minutes or until the cookies start to crinkle and are lightly browned on the bottoms. Remove from the oven and immediately press a heart-shaped sprinkle or candy on each cookie. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely. Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
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Flour, Salt... and Holiday Magic By Stephanie Koreneff
There's something truly special about unwrapping homemade Christmas decorations year after year. It brings a smile as you relive memories and gives the tree an extra special touch. Salt dough ornaments are exactly that: nostalgic, fun, and budget-friendly. Best of all, if you can bake cookies, you can make these. With just three basic pantry staples and an oven, you're halfway there already! You'll need: 1 cup of salt 1 cup of water 3 cups of all-purpose flour Preheat your oven to 250°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the salt, water, and all-purpose flour. Once it's too hard to mix with a spoon, knead the dough until it's smooth and pliable. You'll want to roll it out to roughly ¼ inch thickness. Thicker dough takes longer to dry, but if it's too thin it may break easily. Now you can get creative. Use cookie cutters to make fun shapes, or press your child or grandchild's hand or foot into the dough for a sweet keepsake. If you're doing hand or footprints, be sure to cut out the shape after you've made the print. Once you have the desired shape, remember to poke the hole for the string. Carefully transfer your ornaments to a baking sheet and place in the oven for 2-3 hours, depending on thickness. You're looking for them to harden and not have any soft places. Once they reach that point, take them out of the oven and let them cool completely. This is where the real fun begins! Using acrylic paint, decorate the ornaments however you want. If you're painting hand or footprints, you could turn them into Christmas trees, reindeer, snowmen, or Santa. If you want to add glitter, grab some school glue, add the glitter, and shake the excess off into the trash. Or, if you prefer a more rustic look, skip the paint and glitter altogether and head straight to the next step: sealing. Sealing your ornaments will keep them looking nice for years to come. Apply two or three coats of an acrylic sealer or Mod Podge, making sure you get both sides and inside the hole. Once dry, thread with ribbon or a string of your choice, and they're ready for the tree! These keepsakes capture fun memories of making something together by hand as well as a little holiday magic. So pour yourself some hot chocolate, put on your favorite Christmas tunes, and start rolling!
“Santa’s Here? I KNOW HIM!”
Come Meet Santa at Mount Airy Tractor Toyland Saturday, December 5th, from 10 am-1 pm
195 N Main St Mt Airy, NC 27030 336-783-9505
The Mount Airy Downtown Business Association invites you to bring the entire family and enjoy the magic of the Holiday Season during
Our Annual Christmas parade
scene from previous parade
DowntownMountAiry www.visitmayberry.com
Saturday, November 21 starting at 5 p.m.
NEW this year!
Sensory-friendly area from N Main/Elm to Independence. Loud sounds/flashing lights will be minimized in this area.
Shop Small in Downtown Mount Airy!
Saturday, November 28
SHOP LOCAL!
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Wellness
Jessica O. Wall, MPH Director, Yadkin County Human Services Agency Medical Clinic and Wic jwall@yadkincountync.gov 336-849-7588
Electric Bikes and Scooters Electric bikes (e-bikes), electric balance bikes, and electric scooters (e-scooters) are likely to be popular gifts this holiday season. According to the “Expert Advice” section of the REI webpage, e-bikes are similar to bikes you are used to seeing and using. However, they are "equipped with a battery and a small electric motor to assist you in pedaling faster and farther”. There are different types or models of e-bikes, which can vary in how they provide additional support in pedaling. This can range from more power only when you pedal to models that have a throttle. Similarly, electric balance bikes or scooters have added electric motors with batteries that add additional power when riding. As a result, the added motors can get e-bikes up to 20-28mph, while e-scooters can get up to 15-20mph. Safety experts and pediatricians are sharing concern for youth having these items or considering them toys. Crashing or falling off an e-bike or e-scooter at this rate of speed is very likely to cause injuries. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the most common injuries seen from e-scooter accidents are “cuts, fractures, and head injuries” or neck or facial injuries. As the popularity of these items increase, so are the injuries seen. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that emergency roomtreated injuries and deaths associated with these products are increasing. Recent data shows that U.S. emergency departments treated an estimated
In an AAP article written by Dr. Ashley Morgan, she simplifies approaching safe e-scooter use down to 10 safety rules, which include: Do not allow children under 16 to ride. Wear a helmet and closed-toed shoes. Wear protective gear Start slow No texting and riding No earbuds while riding Use bike lanes when available Do not use e-scooters on sidewalks, paths, or in parks. Do not operate while under the influence of substances, which can include prescription medications. Never use on a highway.
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79,300 e-scooter-related injuries in 2024, nearly double the number reported in 2021. In addition, there have been more than 100 deaths related to e-scooters since 2017. A helmet is still the best way to prevent serious injury when riding an e-bike or e-scooter. Many parents or caregivers may not consider a scooter or e-scooter as dangerous as a bike and will not require their child to wear a helmet. The danger of head injury is still there. Always require your child to wear a helmet when riding anything with wheels: bikes or balance bikes, scooters, skates/rollerblades, skateboards, etc. Pay attention to the type of helmet you are using also. The faster the bike or scooter can travel, you want to consider upgrading the helmet. Caregivers may also want to consider knee and elbow pads and wrist guards, along with gloves or even a chest plate/armor. The Children’s Hospital of Colorado suggests going even further than safety equipment. They recommend having a conversation with your child about the product before they ever use it. You should also consider the type of e-bike or e-scooter you choose for your child and ensure they know how to properly use it, which includes using good safety practices. Make sure they understand how increased speeds can make them harder to handle and can more easily cause injury. It’s also important for you and your children to understand the traffic laws and rules around e-bikes and e-scooters. The Hospital shares that there are “unwritten rules” that cyclists use, such as “when crossing in front of a car, make eye contact with the driver of the vehicle to make sure they see you before crossing” or “riding in lower traffic areas… riding one street over, parallel to the original street your child might usually ride on”.
Home & Garden
WRITER/PHOTOS Kellee Payne Commercial and Consumer Horticulture Agent N.C. Cooperative Extension Yadkin County Center kellee_payne@ncsu.edu Facebook @YadkinCountyHorticulture
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Spring’s Secret Start: Planting Autumn Bulbs for Early Color As autumn settles across the Yadkin Valley, late October and November mark a quiet yet crucial period in the garden calendar. While the landscape begins to brown and drop its foliage, the cool soil beneath our feet holds incredible potential. Planting spring-flowering bulbs during these late-autumn months is one of the most rewarding investments a gardener can make. By taking advantage of our mild Piedmont soil temperatures, you allow young bulb root systems to establish long before the first blooms break through the late winter frost. Understanding the timing, selection, and care behind these underground treasures ensures a brilliant burst of color when spring returns. Timing is everything when it comes to burying spring-flowering bulbs. They require a sustained period of cold winter temperatures to trigger proper root development and future stem growth, but they must be placed in the ground before the earth freezes solid. Across North Carolina and the Southeast, October through November serves as the golden window for planting. However, if the busy autumn season slips past, it is never too late—bulbs can still be safely tucked into the ground through December or even early January, as long as the soil remains workable. Late-planted bulbs will still bloom reliably, though they may arrive slightly later in their first spring season. When selecting bulbs at local garden centers, look for ones that are large, firm, and free of soft spots or mold, avoiding any that feel light or hollow. Selecting the right location and preparing the soil properly will prevent the most common bulb killer: excess water. Bulbs demand well-draining soil in a spot that receives full to partial sunlight, meaning at least four to six hours of direct light daily. Planting beneath deciduous shade trees is actually an ideal strategy; because those trees drop their leaves in late autumn, the emerging spring bulbs will enjoy unfiltered sunlight long before the canopy leaves back out in May. To prepare heavy clay or sandy soils, work a generous two- to three-inch layer of organic compost or aged mulch into the top layer to loosen the structure and boost drainage. When you are ready to plant, a simple rule of thumb keeps everything at the correct depth: bury each bulb at a depth equal to two to three times its height. This means larger bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths should sit six to eight inches deep, while smaller bulbs like crocus and grape hyacinths belong about three to four inches beneath the surface. Always set the bulb into its hole with the pointed tip facing up toward the sky and the flat root base resting on the bottom. Mixing a small amount of slow-release bulb fertilizer or bone meal into the soil at the base of the hole gives root development a welcome boost, provided a thin layer of plain dirt separates the fertilizer from direct contact with the bulb. Backfill the hole, press the soil down gently to eliminate air pockets, and water the area thoroughly to jumpstart root activity. Finish with a twoto three-inch blanket of pine straw or shredded bark to insulate the bed against harsh winter freeze cycles. If wildlife visits your yard, choosing the right bulb species makes all the difference between a thriving spring show and an empty garden bed. Tulips and crocuses are notorious favorites for deer, squirrels, and voles. To protect your investment without resorting to chemical sprays, select naturally pest-resistant varieties like daffodils, alliums, and Siberian squill. These plants contain naturally bitter alkaloid compounds that burrowing pests
and hungry deer actively avoid, ensuring your garden remains untouched straight through to its spring debut. What you do after the flowers fade in spring is just as important as how you plant them in the autumn. Once the colorful petals drop, clip off the spent flower heads so the plant does not waste precious energy forming seeds. Crucially, leave the green foliage completely alone; never cut back, braid, or tie up the remaining leaves. Over the six to eight weeks following bloom time, that green foliage acts as a natural solar panel, using photosynthesis to recharge the bulb with energy for the following year's display. Only after the leaves naturally turn completely yellow and dry out should they be trimmed away, leaving the bulb safely resting underground for another season. 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.
Thank you for your support in 2026! Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for the New Year from
Joe’s Landscaping & Nursery
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Winterizing the Herd for the Holidays: A Seasonal Maintenance Checklist As the winter season approaches, livestock producers are balancing farm chores with family gatherings. Preparing your herd for sudden winter cold snaps ahead of time minimizes emergencies, protects animal welfare, and ensures you spend less time breaking ice and more time around the holiday table. Here is a practical seasonal checklist to winterize your livestock operation before severe winter weather sets in.
Water & Mineral Access: The Foundation of Winter Nutrition
Mackenzie Hall Area Livestock Agent N.C. Cooperative Extension mackenzie_hall@ncsu.edu Davie County Center (336) 753-6100 / davie.ces.ncsu.edu Yadkin County Center (336) 849-7908 / yadkin.ces.ncsu.edu
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Water is the most critical nutrient for livestock, even in freezing weather. Clean, unfrozen water is essential because a drop in water intake directly leads to reduced feed intake, making it difficult for cattle to meet their elevated energy demands. Inspect Heaters & Water Sources: Check waterers daily to ensure supply lines are flowing and tanks are not frozen over. Test submerged heaters, floating de-icers, and automatic units before hard freezes hit. Watch for Stray Voltage: Inspect power cords for fraying or damage. Livestock are extremely sensitive to stray voltage, which will prevent them from drinking. Free-Choice Mineral Access: Mineral nutrition supports immune function, digestion, and metabolic processes that help cattle cope with environmental stress. Keep mineral feeders protected from rain and snow to maintain consistent intake.
Strategic Caloric Intake: Fueling the Rumen Internal Heater Cattle experience cold stress when the effective temperature (a combination of wind, rain, and cold) drops below their Lower Critical Temperature. In winter, livestock need to eat more hay and forage because digestion in the rumen serves as the animal's natural built-in heat source. Proactive Feeding Ahead of Cold Events: Energy requirements increase by approximately 1% for every degree the effective temperature drops below an animal's LCT. During wet, windy events, cattle may require up to 30% more energy. Increase energy intake 1 to 2 days before a forecasted cold event, maintain it during the storm, and continue for several days after to allow recovery. Feed highquality hay (as much as they want). Animals can literally starve to death before they can meet their nutritional needs on poor-quality forages. This is why it’s important to test your hay. Account for Coat Condition: Cattle with clean, dry winter coats tolerate colder temperatures well. However, when rain or mud mats their fur, insulation is lost, and cold stress can begin at much milder temperatures (even in the 50s). Utilize Fiber-Based Energy Supplements: Introduce energy-dense supplements such as soybean hulls, corn gluten feed, or whole cottonseed, or a complete feed gradually to support rumen function and heat production without causing digestive stress. It is NOT recommended to feed several days' worth of grain or supplements at one time, as stock can easily overeat. Vulnerable Classes: Lactating cows, young calves, and cattle with lower body condition scores have higher energy demands and lose heat rapidly. Give these groups priority access to high-quality forage and shelter.
Shelter, Ventilation & Mud Management While livestock naturally carry winter coats, the combination of wind, moisture, and deep mud rapidly strips away body heat and increases stress. Provide Effective Windbreaks: Wind protection is one of the most impactful ways to reduce cold stress. Cattle often seek shelter from wind before seeking food or water. Utilize tree lines, wooded areas, stacked round bales, or structures located near feeding areas. Balance Ventilation & Housing: If housing livestock indoors during extreme weather, ensure adequate ventilation to keep air moisture, odor, and ammonia levels low while protecting animals from severe drafts. Manage Feeders & Mud: Move outdoor ring feeders frequently to prevent deep muck from building up in high-traffic areas. Keeping feeding zones dry is critical for newborn calves to prevent limb injuries and control scours. Providing clean, dry bedding insulates animals from frozen ground and drastically lowers thermal stress.
Bale Grazing Consider implementing bale grazing now. Put out hay for 1-3 months in the pasture, on their ends, now while the ground is dry. Use a temporary fence to allow the livestock access to a bale or two of hay in a controlled
Tell ‘em you saw it in
manner, similar to rotational grazing. It is recommended to use bale feeders while feeding to reduce waste. This method allows you to spend one concentrated block of time and fuel to put out hay, versus cranking the tractor and running it daily or every other day. Using this method distributes your urine and feces across the pasture. Reach out to your local Livestock Extension Agent for more information on bale grazing. Taking time now to service waterers, stage quality forage, and establish clean feeding areas ensures your herd stays resilient through severe weather, giving you well-deserved peace of mind during the holiday season. Contact: Find your local County Cooperative Extension Center at https://www.ces.ncsu.edu/countycenters/ for assistance with your Agriculture, Family and Consumer Science, and/or 4-H Youth Development needs. From your county's website, scroll down to the bottom of the page, to the "Let's Stay in Touch" section on the right, and click "Subscribe by Email" to subscribe to their email newsletter.
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Mitchell's Nursery and Greenhouse Named a 2026 Innovator of the Year!
Mitchell’s Nursery and Greenhouse in King was named a 2026 Innovator of the Year honoree by Lawn & Garden Retailer magazine. Of the ten independent garden centers who received the honor this year, nine were from the United States and one was from Australia. Mitchell’s Nursery and Greenhouse, owned by Jim and Judy Mitchell, was the only North Carolina business so honored. “We started this business rooting azaleas in our backyard. To be recognized alongside garden centers from all over the country means a lot to us and to everyone who’s worked here over the years.” The Mitchell’s started their nursery as a small side business in 1979. In 1982, after Jim’s epilepsy worsened, he and Judy shifted more towards landscaping and mowing to keep the business going. The growing
operation moved to its current location in King in 1993. Jim had brain surgery in 1995 that left him seizure-free and the couple was able to focus on building the nursery into the business it is today. This recognition is important to the Mitchells since it is based on three things they spent four decades building their business around: retail innovation, community impact, and customer experience. A popular event at Mitchell’s since 2004 has been their poinsettia trials, which the magazine highlighted. Each year, unreleased varieties of the holiday plant are on display from major poinsettia breeders. Mitchell’s customers can browse the new colors and vote on their favorites, helping to shape which varieties may show up in garden centers in the future. These poinsettias are for sale along with traditional ones.
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336-463-2885 Home \ 336-655-4344 Cell 1316 Travis Rd. • Yadkinville
This year, the spectacular selection will include more than 70 varieties and 13,000 plants. Voting will run from November 27 until December 6, when you can help pick future holiday colors! Things quiet down some at Mitchell’s after the poinsettias are all gone, but behind the scenes they are busy preparing for spring and beyond. They serve not only homeowners, but landscapers as well, selling quality annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, vegetable plants, herbs, and seasonal plants. You can also purchase soil amendments, mulches, and fertilizers, making Mitchell’s the place to get everything you need for a beautiful lawn and garden! The first nursery-greenhouse to be featured on NCDOT Agritourism road signs, Mitchell’s attracts customers from Stokes County and beyond. They come by the busload, especially during the spring and fall. Lawn and Garden Retailer’s Innovator of the Year list is published annually and recognizes outstanding garden centers. You can view the full list and read more at lgrmag.com. Mitchell's Nursery and Greenhouse is a family-owned garden center and wholesale grower based in King, North Carolina. Founded in 1979, Mitchell's grows a wide range of plants on-site and offers landscape consultations, local delivery, and educational classes for gardeners at every level. For more information, visit mitchellsnursery.com.
“This kind of recognition isn't something we chase after. It's just what happens when you keep showing up for your customers and your community, year after year." Jim & Judy Mitchell
Celebrating 47 years
70+ Poinsettia Varieties over 13,000 Poinsettias
Poinsettia Display, Voting, & Sales November 27 to December 6 Poinsettias will be ready for purchase mid-November until Christmas. We will be putting 70+ varieties on display for voting between November 27 and December 6. ~Voting can be done~ Monday through Friday 8 to 5, Saturday 8 to 4, and Sunday 12 to 3 - only on November 29 and December 6
www.mitchellsnursery.com
Check our website or call us for updates
1088 W. Dalton Road, King • (336) 983-4107 November-December 2026
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Yadkin Valley Magazine Cookbooks... the Perfect Gift for anyone who likes to cook or bake! (Or for yourself-we won’t tell!) Avoid shipping costs and buy your copy at these Yadkin Valley Magazine advertisers: Books & Brew, 2909 Nebo Rd., East Bend Gloria Sews, 804 N Moravian St., Wilkesboro Mt Airy Tractor Co. Toyland, 195 N Main St., Mt. Airy Rumple Furniture, 1313 N Bridge St., Elkin Send in the form with a check to Yadkin Valley Magazine PO Box 2077 Yadkinville, NC 27055 You can also order online at yadkinvalleymagazine.com. Prices include tax and shipping. Bundle all 3 and save! $40/all 3 cookbooks
Please mail cookbook to: Name__________________________________________
One Last Sweet Bite $16 52 Pounds and then some! $18 Best Yadkin Valley Cooks. $20 50
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Give the Gift of Yadkin Valley Magazine! Order by December 1st and the recipient will receive a card in the mail before Christmas letting them know that their subscription will begin with January-February 2027 issue and the name of the giver!
WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE 1. Mail in the form below with your payment by check 2.Visit yadkinvalleymagazine.com to subscribe online
1 year subscription, 6 issues for $28.00 Mail this form with a check to: Yadkin Valley Magazine PO Box 2077 Yadkinville, NC 27055
You may also order online at yadkinvalleymagazine.com Yadkin Valley Magazine will still be available at all your favorite locations, but now you can choose the convenience of having it delivered to your home! (Yes, the magazine is still free. However, postage and supplies aren’t, so the cost of a subscription offsets those costs.)
Subscribe for yourself, or give someone the gift of Yadkin Valley Magazine! Please mail a subscription to: Name__________________________________________ Address________________________________________ City________________________State_____ZIP________
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Local folks serving the community for over 100 years! Farm & Garden Supplies
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Family Owned For Over 45 Years! 2649 South Main St. • Mount Airy, NC 27030 (336) 789-4977www.hickswaterstoves.com November-December 2026
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Yadkin Valley Collectors
8th Annual Yadkin Valley Farm Toy Show Friday, Nov. 6 6 pm -9 pm Saturday, Nov. 7 9 am - 2 pm
BUY - SELL - TRADE Open to the public!
Farm Toys, Pedal Tractors, Construction Toys & More!
Admission: $5 Children under 12 free w/adult
more information, check out the Myers Auction Services For Yadkin Valley Farm Toy Show Facebook page, or contact 1105 Flint Hill Road Mark Williams, 336-469-4980 East Bend, NC Dustin Calloway, 336-469-0420
November 7 Breakfast 7am - 10am Thank you for supporting the Windsor’s Crossroads Ruritan Club in 2026! Look for our 2027 schedule of events in the January-February issue!
Nov-Dec 2026 November 7 Diesel Pull 2 pm Thank you for supporting the Yadkin Valley Pullers this season! **Dates subject to change or cancellation**
Roundhill Farms 4000 McKnight Road Boonville NC 27011
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The Grove Handbell Ensemble presents
Sounds of the Season Union Grove United Methodist Church 1331 Sloans Mill Road, Union Grove, NC November 29,2026 at 4 pm Dessert Reception to follow
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The Grove Handbell Ensemble, based at Union Grove United Methodist Church in Union Grove (northern Iredell County) is pleased to announce our fall concert - Sounds of the Season on November 29, at 4:00 pm. We have been hard at work in rehearsals since mid-August, and it is a challenge rehearsing Christmas music with the heat outside. We welcome new members Aiden, Julie, and Monica, and hope that you will come to our Sounds of the Seasons Concert, with a variety of music, and a chance to sing along to your favorite Christmas Carols.
North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Forsyth County Center, Moves to New Facility
WRITER/PHOTOS Leslie Rose County Extension Director N.C. Cooperative Extension Forsyth County Center leslie_rose@ncsu.edu
North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Forsyth County Center, is excited to welcome community members to our new office space in Tobaccoville, NC! Earlier this year, Extension staff moved to our new office location within the Forsyth County Agricultural Park. The new office location provides new office spaces, meeting rooms, and outdoor space for future educational programming. You can now find Extension staff, along with Forsyth County Soil & Water Conservation District staff, at this new space in Tobaccoville. The Forsyth County Agricultural Park is 25 acres and features a 0.38-mile walking trail, which has a 900-foot paved, fully accessible section and its own parking lot. The new building for the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Forsyth County Center, which opened in May 2026, is 25,940 square feet. The building includes offices for Extension staff, Soil & Water Conservation District staff, a teaching kitchen, and meeting spaces. There is also an exhibit hall with 4,000 square feet of open space along with a kitchen, pantry, and two breakout meeting rooms. Forsyth County Parks and Recreation is managing reservations for the exhibit hall. The initial phase of the new park was made possible in part by $4.5 million from the 2016 voter-approved Parks and Recreation bonds and a $5 million state grant. The staff from Extension and Soil & Water Conservation are available at the Agricultural Park from Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, to assist community members. Extension staff assist community members with education in a variety of areas, including food safety and production, financial management, 4-H youth
Inventory changes daily-shop often for a great selection! People Helping People remains committed to helping our western NC neighbors affected by Hurricane Helene as well as our neighbors closer to home, too!
Volunteer. Shop with us. Donate.
Christmas Items, Clothes, Gifts...check out our inventory for holiday savings. You will save money AND know that you are helping others!
People Helping People SH OP Ship/Mail/Deliver Donations to: 501 East Main Street, Yadkinville, NC FOR A 336-677-1600 Tuesday-Saturday Noon-6 pm CAUSE! Our retail shop is open, so come shop with us or donate gently used items.
Purchases and donations benefit those in need, both locally & in the NC mountains.
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Photo by Todd Luck, Forsyth County Communications Department. development, and agriculture. In addition to answering questions from community members who call or visit the office, we offer a variety of classes at our building and within the community. Visit our websites, forsyth.ces.ncsu.edu and forsyth.cc/ces, to find out what’s coming up. Our space in the Forsyth County Agricultural Park includes a teaching kitchen which allows us to offer food demonstrations. Soil & Water Conservation staff are available to provide education and technical assistance to agricultural producers and landowners wishing to implement conservation practices to protect soil, water, and natural resources.
The Yadkin Valley is dotted with cozy autumn events this time of year, including one presented by the Rendezvous Mountain Chapter of the NC Daughters of the American Revolution. On November 6th and 7th, the DAR will be celebrating our country’s founding at the Wilkes Heritage Museum. The Freedom Truck, a mobile educational exhibit documenting our nation’s history and celebrating the 250th anniversary of its founding, will be at the event on Friday from 12-5 PM and Saturday from 10-5 PM and is open to the public. General George and Mrs. Martha Washington impersonators will be on site both days, offering a unique immersive learning experience for children and adults alike. Kathleen McClendon, who is the America 250 Chairperson for the Rendezvous Mountain Chapter of the DAR says, “This weekend is an opportunity for our community to step back in time and
Teaching kitchen, Forsyth County Center
connect with the people and sacrifices that helped establish our nation. We are especially excited to bring the Freedom Truck to Wilkesboro and welcome General and Mrs. Washington as we celebrate our nation’s history together. The weekend is being presented as part of the Rendezvous Mountain Chapter’s efforts to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary and encourage the community to learn, remember, and celebrate the remarkable story of America’s founding." This event will be full of excitement and history, so be sure to drop by and brush up on your knowledge of our nation’s founding! by Sarah McBride, Salem College graduate and a resident of Elkin
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Over Mountain Victory Trail in the Yadkin Valley Charles G. Mathis, Curator, Yadkin Valley Museum Joseph Winston
Benjamin Cleveland In late summer of 1780, Revolutionary leader Benjamin Cleveland, who lived at Roundabout in what is now the Ronda community, inspired more than two hundred men from Wilkes and the Piedmont to join volunteer militia from over the mountains in Virginia and Tennessee to pursue and kill Major Patrick Ferguson. A statue of Cleveland stands in Wilkesboro. "Yonder is your enemy and the enemy of mankind!" — Benjamin Cleveland (Quoted by Stephen B. Weeks in his book, General Joseph Martin and the War of the Revolution in the West) "Lay down your arms and swear allegiance to the King or I will march my army over the mountains, hang your leaders and lay waste with fire and sword your home and fields." — Patrick Ferguson, late summer 1780
The military career of Major Joseph Winston began at age 17 when he fought Indians. His career ended with the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. He was 68, born June 17, 1746 and died April 21, 1815. He was the father of triplet boys, each of whom became widely known adults — as a judge, a major general and a lieutenant governor. A statue of Winston stands on the Guilford Battle Grounds, his burial site. The town of Winston, which later merged with Salem to become the city of Winston-Salem, is named for him.
The Turning Point Joseph Winston, a local hero from long ago when the name of our community was not Jonesville or Elkin but Allen's Settlement. The King of England — with help from his spokesman, Major Patrick Ferguson — was trying to make us speak with a British accent. Winston, ready to fight, organized a large militia of men from what is now Surry, Yadkin, Stokes and Forsyth counties. They gathered into Allen's Settlement on September 26, 1780, preparing to head up the Yadkin River.They had one goal in mind: to kill Major Ferguson and his Tories. From over the mountains and along the way, they were joined by other militias from western NC, Virginia and Tennessee. At King's Mountain, they achieved their goal, and it was a disaster for Ferguson and the British. In Joseph Winston's honor, the county seat of Forsyth was named Winston in 1851. Joseph Winston is also honored with his statue in the Guilford Courthouse battleground. Thomas Jefferson called the Battle of King's Mountain the "turning point" of the American Revolution.
The Elkin-to-Lenoir segment of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail constitutes the eastern branch of the famous route. It traces the march of the Piedmont and foothills patriot militias who mobilized to join the "Overmountain Men" on their way to defeat British Loyalist forces at the Battle of Kings Mountain on October 7, 1780. 1. The Muster at Elkin (September 26–27, 1780) The Gathering: On September 26, 1780, approximately 350 Patriot militia men from Surry and Wilkes counties answered the call to arms. The Leadership: They mustered at the Elkin Creek encampment (modern-day Elkin Municipal Park) under the seasoned leadership of Colonel Benjamin Cleveland and Major Joseph Winston.
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2. Marching the Yadkin Valley to Wilkesboro (September 27, 1780) The Route: Departing Elkin on the morning of September 27, the militia marched southwest, closely tracking the banks of the Yadkin River. The Encampment: By the end of the day, they reached modern-day Wilkesboro. They set up camp near the "Tory Oak," a historic local landmark known for its ties to the execution of loyalist marauders. 3. Pushing Westward through Lenoir (September 28–29, 1780) The Passage: Leaving Wilkesboro, Cleveland and Winston’s men continued southwest along the river corridors. Key Landmarks: The force marched through Caldwell
wilderness, you can trace the exact steps of the Patriot militias by following standard public highways designated by the National Park Service. The roads are marked with the distinctive triangular Overmountain Victory trail logo highway signs to keep you on the historic corridor. Driving the Eastern Branch (Elkin to Lenoir & Morganton) If you are driving the specific eastern leg we just discussed, the route is broken down into two distinct driving stretches that capture the individual segments of the march: 🔹Elkin to Wilkesboro (Approx. 21 miles): This first segment starts at Elkin Municipal Park and closely follows NC-268 West as it curves alongside the Yadkin River. It passes straight through scenic valley farmlands into downtown Wilkesboro, ending at the Wilkes Heritage Museum. 🔹Wilkesboro to Lenoir & Morganton (Approx. 29 miles): From Wilkesboro, the motor route transitions onto US-321 South toward Lenoir, guiding you past Fort Defiance. From Lenoir, you follow NC-18 South straight down into downtown Morganton where this branch meets the main western trail line.
How to Navigate the Trail Today
County and the modern City of Lenoir, passing near Fort Defiance—the fortified home of General William Lenoir. Along the way, the column continued gathering local recruits from the valleys. The Next Stop: Passing through Lenoir served as the final leg before the eastern branch merged with the main body of Overmountain forces at Quaker Meadows (near modern Morganton) on September 30.
Historical Significance Though the primary "Overmountain Men" crossed from Tennessee and Virginia, the Elkin-to-Lenoir contingent provided crucial reinforcements. By unifying the frontier and Piedmont militias, this combined force of roughly 2,000 men successfully surrounded and dismantled Major Patrick Ferguson's loyalist army at Kings Mountain—a decisive victory that Thomas Jefferson later hailed as the "turn of the tide" in the Revolutionary War. The Commemorative Motor Route is a 330-mile auto tour that allows you to drive the entire historic campaign route across four states. Instead of hiking through rugged
Watch for the Shield: Keep an eye out for the official white and brown triangular highway markers stamped with the trail's name and a silhouette of an Overmountain citizen-soldier. Stop at Interpretive Centers: The motor route connects key historic sites. Along the Elkin-to-Lenoir corridor, you can pull over at designated parks and museums to read outdoor interpretive plaques detailing exactly what the militia did on that patch of land in September 1780. Mix Driving with Walking: You don't have to stay in your car the whole time. The motor route runs parallel to roughly 87 miles of walkable, non-motorized paths. You can easily park at trailheads like the Yadkin River Greenway or Lake James State Park to stretch your legs on the actual dirt the soldiers marched on.
By Dawn Hardwick Jonesville Historical Society 458 West Main Street, Jonesville Follow us on Facebook: Jonesville Historical Society President-Trevor Cole Hardwick Contact Phone: 336-428-2176 Email: trevcolehard@gmail.com
November-December 2026
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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
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Caring For You Has Been Our Specialty for over 50 years
“It’s all about the dogs.” Perry Money of Hamptonville was an impressive man, with service as a Marine and in the US Army Reserves among his accomplishments. Yet he gave credit to the dogs. Granted, these weren’t just any dogs. Perry was a Mine and Booby Trap Detection Dog Handler during the Vietnam Conflict. But first, the man. Perry Money grew up in Surry then Yadkin County and was in the first graduating class at Starmount High School in 1968. After briefly attending Guilford College, he joined the US Marine Corps in 1969. While in Okinawa, before even arriving in Vietnam, he first learned about a new training program. Eager to “get off that rock” (Okinawa), he volunteered without knowing exactly what he was volunteering for. That choice brought him back to North Carolina, but we will come back to that. After serving in Vietnam for more than a year, he came home. Like many Vietnam veterans, he worked, got married, and started a family. But the military wasn’t done with him yet, and he joined the Army Reserves and went to drill sargeant training. If you knew Perry, you know that job may have been created for him. He had a commanding presence, and I cannot imagine young recruits-or older ones for that matter-failing to do as he instructed. A charter member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10346, he was a proud patriot and friend to all veterans. Perry put a lot into his community. He coached youth softball, and was instrumental in setting up the Yadkin County softball program, now called recreation league. When soccer first came to the area, he bought a book to learn the game, and coached his first team to a championship. To facilitate the first soccer teams at the county’s two high schools, he built practice and game goals. Whatever the need, he showed up in a big way.
Perry, left, may have retired from the USMC and US Army, but his service continued in the VFW
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Perry, in overalls at center, & other veterans at the cabin After buying a mountainside property in western Yadkin County, Perry worked for several years to restore a log cabin that was in disrepair. Never meant to be a home, it was his hobby and getaway place, with space for some cows and no other houses in sight. The Vietnam Dog Handlers Association was organized in 1993, and Perry became involved after attending an October 2000 reunion sponsored by the group. It was the first time he had seen fellow dog handlers from his unit in thirty years. He was able to reconnect with men who could talk to each other about shared experiences, and about the unique bond they had with their dogs. The cabin he had restored became a place where these men could come together, a meeting place for the mine and booby trap detection dog handler buddies and other veterans. A yearly reunion-”the party” he called it-gave them a chance to remember and honor the dogs that had been so important to them, and to keep their own renewed friendships strong. Perry would go on to serve on the board of the Vietnam Dog Handlers Association, and was the president of the organization at the time of his death in 2017. He and his wife, Josie, traveled around the country as ambassadors for the association. Perry attended ceremonies, memorial dedications, and other events honoring veterans and military dogs. His family continued those dog handler reunions after Perry’s death. At the very next event in 2018, an idea was discussed on the porch. Perry had an impressive collection of photos and memorabilia, and along with what other veterans had collected, the dream was for a museum to preserve and display the history of military workings dogs. The Military Working Dog Heritage Museum is a nonprofit organization working to realize that dream. Perry’s influence continued, even when he was no longer present to be the driving force he had always been. Why does it matter? The dogs sent to Vietnam at the beginning of the conflict, like previous wars, were mostly sentries. But Vietnam was not like previous wars in many ways. Soldiers were being killed by mines, booby traps, and trip wires in such numbers that the Army needed
some way to prevent those casualties. According to Perry Money in a 2015 video series, a Raleigh company developed a training method for explosives detection that dog trainers still use today. The training program was sold to the Marines and 29 dogs were trained initially. Perry and his dog, Missy (7K37) were in the first group of fifteen from the program to be sent to Vietnam, with the remainder following six weeks later. These dogs and their handlers were not in a regular combat unit. Rather, whenever troops were expected to move through areas with the highest risk of casualties, a handler and his dog were assigned to go with them, always the first ones exposed to danger. Josie Money shared that the dogs were so well-trained and the hair on their chest was so sensitive, that they were known to alert when they encountered a spiderweb. So trip wires were no match for them. Perry and Missy were assigned to 17 different combat units. He did not keep a count of the patrols they led, but estimated it was between 250 and 300. “We never had a casualty behind us. My dog never missed a mine. Never missed a trip wire. Never missed a booby trap. And they were there,” Perry recalled in 2015. Twenty-five percent of these dogs and their handlers were killed in action in Vietnam. Perry stated that an estimated 20,000 casualties were prevented by these dogs. Without their unbelievable service, the Wall memorializing fallen Vietnam soliders in Washington would have to be about 200 feet longer to hold the names. Dogs performed other jobs in Vietnam, and there were about 4,000 military dogs there over the course of the conflict, with 10,000 handlers assigned to them. When one soldier went home, his dog was assigned to someone else to continue their specialized work. Of those still in country at the end of the conflict, only about 200 were brought home. Sadly, the others were considered surplus equipment and left behind, given to the South Vietnamese Army, or euthanized. Like many pet owners, I form pretty strong attachments to my dogs. But I have never relied on my dog to keep me and a lot of other people alive day to day. I have never been attached-literally, by a leash or commands-to my dog 24 hours of every day in unimaginable situations. These soldiers may have been happy to leave Vietnam headed home, but they were also heartbroken to leave their dogs. It may have been slightly easier for those who left before the conflict ended, knowing that their dog would continue the work with another handler. But for the last ones who had to leave their dog behind, I cannot imagine the anguish. In the 2015 video series, a friend of Perry’s is interviewed and recounts how he found out years later that his dog, Prince, was one of the lucky ones to make it home. Prince worked in Customs before retiring, and lived a long life and died of natural causes. Sadly, that is one of the very few happy endings for these dedicated dogs who saved so many lives.
Perry Money never forgot Missy. Her memory and that of the other mine and booby trap detection dogs live on thanks to the memorial he built at his cabin. It lists the names of those first dogs trained in Raleigh.
Perry with Missy, a German Shepherd, in Vietnam
✦Robby’s Law, a federal law signed by President Clinton in 2000, provides a pathway for military working dogs to be adopted at the end of their military service so that they are never left behind again. ✦If you would like to watch the 2015 videos referenced, you can find a link at yadkinvalleymagazine.com. Thank you, Darrel Bryant.
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Readers Around the Yadkin Valley The Resettlement of Vesta Blonik
Barb Collins – Lover of Books and the People Who Write Them The reviews for this issue feature novels with strong characters making difficult choices. Both books offer many topics for discussion. Maybe a good selection for you or your book club? Check your local library for availability.
In this debut novel, Denise Smith Cline offers a quiet, compassionate look at the difficult choices people faced during the Great Depression—and the unexpected possibilities that can emerge from circumstances they did not choose. Vesta Blonik, an unmarried woman in her thirties, works hard to sustain her family’s Minnesota farm. When her father takes advantage of the Resettlement Act, his plans leave Vesta without a secure future, forcing her to choose between independence and poverty. An invitation from her church community to correspond with Gordon Crenshaw, a widowed North Carolina farmer seeking a wife, seems to offer a way forward. Through their letters, Vesta begins to imagine a new life. But when she arrives in North Carolina, she discovers a devastating truth: Gordon is a patient at Dix Hill Psychiatric Hospital. Their long-distance courtship was part of his family’s well-intentioned but troubling plan to secure his release by demonstrating that someone is prepared to care for him — a wife. Vesta and Gordon are compelling
characters, and their story raises thoughtful questions about trust, compassion, and personal agency. As the novel unfolds, even the Crenshaws’ questionable actions become understandable. For readers who enjoy character-driven historical fiction, this is a story of resilience, hard-won second chances, and finding a way forward. Readers interested in the Carolinas will find added resonance in the historical backdrop of Dix Hill and North Carolina’s tobacco country. The novel is available as an audiobook on Hoopla through the Northwestern Regional Library System.
No Way Out But Through I've read other books by Susan Zurenda and have always appreciated the way she shows the redemptive power of human connection and doesn’t shy away from tough topics. In her current novel, No Way Out but Through, she tells the story of Shannon and Grace through interviews at a beach house over a stretch of days. As the interviewer, Shannon tapes the story while Grace recounts a childhood shaped by parental dysfunction and an abusive marriage she was forced into as a teenager. It is difficult, and often heartbreaking subject matter, but the author handles it all with tenderness and compassion. Grace’s revelations force Shannon to
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examine her own life. Although the past circumstances of both women are very different, they have common wounds that allow a bond of trust to form. As trust gives Grace a place to tell the story she has never been able to tell, Shannon confronts her own regrets. In listening to one another, the two women discover an unexpected friendship and a measure of healing. Inspired by the real-life experiences of a woman who survived extraordinary circumstances, the novel is a story of women overcoming the odds and how connections can help them survive. It is Susan Zurenda at her best.
NWRL Regional Library News
New Books Come to Regional Libraries Jennifer Rogers, Jonesville Branch Manager and NWRL Interim Regional Manager, holds a copy of The Resettlement of Vesta Blonik, by Denise Smith Cline, one of the authors interested in stopping at regional branches during National Library Week’s Writers Road Show in April, 2027. Rogers is working with other branch managers to bring a lineup of authors to local libraries. Details coming in the January/February issue. Other southern fiction coming to the NWRL system. Check out reviews and ask about these new books at your local branch. Maybe you’ll find an exciting new author to share with fellow readers!
Book Club Hosts Visiting Author The High Meadows Happy Bookers book club hosted Sarah Loudin Thomas, award-winning novelist of Appalachian historical fiction, as guest speaker to a group of book club members and their guests. Known for stories that bring Appalachian history to life, Loudin Thomas focused the presentation on her novel, These Tangled Threads, a story set in the 1920’s that follows the lives of the artisans and craftsmen of Biltmore Industries who lived in the shadow of Biltmore Estates in the time leading up to Cornelia Vanderbilt’s wedding.
Sarah Loudin Thomas with Anita Wilson of the High Meadows Happy Bookers book club. The author donated a copy of her book to the Alleghany Library.
Jenn Marlow, Branch Manager, Alleghany Library, prepares These Tangled Threads for circulation in the NWRL system. She plans to order additional titles for local readers to enjoy.
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Honor At Last Some things are meant to be. That seems to be true for Larry Adams of East Bend and his recent adventure on an Honor Flight. A US Army veteran, Larry served in the Vietnam Conflict. When soldiers returned from Vietnam, they were not welcomed home as heroes with parades honoring their service. But recently, Larry felt that honor more than fifty years late. The Honor Flight program began in 2005, about a year after the World War II Memorial opened in Washington, D.C. Initially, the goal was to enable aging World War II veterans who may not have had the opportunity to visit the memorial a chance to do so. The flights were so popular that they continued so that vets of later eras could have an opportunity to visit their memorials, too. Since veterans are chosen for flights oldest to youngest, Larry Adams had been on the waiting list for a spot to go. His turn came up last year, but when he got the call that it was his turn, regretfully he had to decline. Health challenges prevented him from committing to go on the trip in June of 2025. The lady on the other end of the phone assured him that she would call back. When she did, he was still not well enough to make plans to go on the trip last fall. Larry never imagined that he would stay on the waiting list after declining twice. But finally, he was well enough earlier this year that his doctor gave him the okay to commit to the September Honor Flight. One of his nurses
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even volunteered to accompany him as his guardian-a person who could assist with a veteran’s medical and mobility concerns on the trip. But blood work one week before the flight almost kept him home. Fortunately, the doctor was eager to see him go, and repeated the test on the day before the flight. Larry was thrilled to learn that he would be allowed to go, and his doctor told him to “get on that plane and have a good time”. Larry told me several times when we spoke that it was meant for him to go. Though it seemed as if going was not possible, in the end it worked out like it was supposed to. Oh, and for the first time this year, Triad Honor Flight, the local organization that makes these events possible for veterans in this part of North Carolina, sponsored three trips this year instead of their regular two. They added an extra trip because so many veterans had been on the waiting list for years, and for many of them, time is of the essence. Just another way that this seemed meant to be. On the day of the flight, Larry rode to the Greensboro airport with fellow East Bend veteran, Neal Nichols, who was also on the flight. Despite heavy rain, they arrived early that morning, and were met with coffee and breakfast. Every detail had been considered, from jackets and a flag down to the handmade blanket-with a small purple heart for those veterans who had been awarded one-that was on his seat when he boarded the plane. As
the rain continued when they landed in Washington, it was hard to tell what was rain and what was the water cannon salute as the plane taxied, but the adventure had begun. The group of 103 men and women was mostly Vietnam veterans, with a few Korean War and Cold War vets, too. They visited several monuments and memorials in the D.C. area, as well as Arlington National Cemetery where two of their group were invited to participate in the laying of the wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. But the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall made the biggest impact on Larry. Asked if he knew some names on the wall, he said he did. But he
declined to find them, feeling that seeing the names etched on the wall would somehow make those losses new again. Back at Reagan airport, the veterans were again honored with a water canon salute before take off. After an already amazing day, the true honor was waiting at the Greensboro airport. The hero’s welcome that these soldiers did not get all those years ago was waiting for them. In addition to local news crews, bands, Scout troops, and veteran motorcycle clubs, familiar faces from East Bend were in the crowd. As it was on a Wednesday, a local church canceled evening services so that they could drive to Greensboro to show their love and support to Larry and Neil, as well as all of the veterans on the flight. Larry was overcome just recounting the story. I am sure that the actual event was overwhelming in the best possible way. For Larry and Neal, and all Yadkin Valley vets, thank you for your service.
Photos Opposite: Honor Flight Veterans at Arlington National Cemetery Top: Some of the Vietnam vets in the group in front of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Above: Larry Adams (wheelchair), Neal Nichols, and David, volunteer Guardian for the trip Right: Part of the crowd welcoming these heroes home at PTI airport
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(Still) Serving with Honor Though they may no longer be active duty, the veterans who volunteer with the Yadkin VFW Post 10346 Honor Guard continue to serve. Providing military honors for veteran funerals, more than 50 each year, and as many as 80 in one recent year, keeps the volunteers busy. Serving mostly Yadkin Honor Guard, VFW Post 10346, c. 2010 County, they also travel to Wilkes, Surry, Forsyth, and Davie Counties, as well as the Salisbury National Cemetery. Sometimes it is because a Yadkin County veteran’s funeral is being held outside of the county, but it may also be to help out the Honor Guard that is local to that area. In addition to VFW Post 10346 Members, American Legion members from the East Bend and Lone Hickory Posts also volunteer with the Honor Guard. Besides military funerals, the Honor Guard participates in other events through the year, such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day observances, parades, and flag raisings and dedications. They have presented colors at Starmount home football games for more than 30 years. Each May and November they hand out poppies-a flower of remembrance-and collect money that supports families of deceased veterans. Unfortunately, there is a greater need than there are volunteers. According to honorguard.us, the average Honor Guard member is over 75 years old and a veteran of the Vietnam Conflict. Since funerals are often planned with fairly short notice, members may not be available due to other obligations, like medical appointments or family commitments. So a large pool of volunteers is needed. If you are a veteran and would like to volunteer, check with any member of your local VFW or American Legion post. If you are not a veteran, your help is needed, too! Support VFW fundraisers or make donations so that local veterans can keep serving their fellow soldiers. Presenting the colors at BW Holt Jr. Stadium before a Starmount football game
Odell Cheek was honored by his fellow veterans during his funeral earlier this year. Mr. Cheek served in the US Army during World War II and was a proud member of the Honor Guard for more than 30 years. At the age of 101, he was the last WWII veteran on record with Yadkin VFW Post 10346.
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Veteran’s Coffee Connection The Veteran’s Coffee Connection is a monthly event, held at the East Bend Senior Center. Held on the third Wednesday of each month, the Veteran’s Coffee Connection provides coffee, biscuits, and snacks to local veterans. The event was started in 2025 by Golden Years, a local community initiative supporting the social, physical, and emotional well-being of senior adults. Bojangles graciously supplies the biscuits, and Books & Brew furnishes coffee. Local businesses donate items for the veterans. In addition to a chance for socialization, programs are presented on topics such as Medicaid/Medicare and support for dementia caregivers. The veterans support local organizations like Yadkin Christian Ministries, the public library, and Hands of Hope. For the first event, twenty-one veterans attended. That number has increased to more than fifty! All senior veterans are invited, no matter where they served. A goal has been set to grow this monthly event to a total of three sites across Yadkin County so that even more senior erans can be included. For more information or for other Golden Years events, you can follow them on Facebook or call 336-699-3350 and leave your contact information.
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One Solitary Life He was born in an obscure village, the child of a peasant. He grew up in another village, where he worked in a carpenter shop until he was 30. Then, for three years, he was an itinerant preacher. He never wrote a book. He never held an office. He never had a family or owned a home. He didn't go to college. He never lived in a big city. He never traveled 200 miles from the place where he was born. He did none of the things that usually accompany greatness. He had no credentials but himself. He was only 33 when the tide of public opinion turned against him. His friends ran away. One of them denied him. He was turned over to his enemies and went through the mockery of a trial. He was nailed to a cross between two thieves. While he was dying, his executioners gambled for his garments, the only property he had on earth. When he was dead, he was laid in a borrowed grave, through the pity of a friend. Twenty centuries have come and gone, and today he is the central figure of the human race. I am well within the mark when I say that all the armies that ever marched, all the navies that ever sailed, all the parliaments that ever sat, all the kings that ever reigned--put together--have not affected the life of man on this earth as much as that one solitary life. Attributed to James Allen Francis
Merry Christmas
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November-December 2026
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COME SEE US AT THIS UPCOMING EVENT! November 28 Kennedy Family Farms Ijames Church Rd, Mocksville 10 am-4 pm
Holiday Open House Thursday, November 5 • 9-4 Friday, November 6 • 9-4 Saturday November 7 • 9-2 ...and continues everyday until Christmas!
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Serving all area funeral homes, East Bend • Elkin • Yadkinville November-December 2026
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R. L. Davis, Yadkin Valley Author
Our next issue: November-December features....
Comfort Foods The Arts Deadline for advertising in January-February YV Magazine is Wednesday, November 25 in stores beginning 1st week January
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If you’d like to learn more about advertising with us contact: Leah Williams 336-961-2620 yadkinvalleymagazine@gmail.com
R.L. Davis of Yadkinville has lived with ALS much longer than anyone expected, and even so accomplishes more than many people. A native of the Ronda community in Wilkes County, he volunteered for the Army and spent two years serving in Vietnam. He later worked as a general contractor, but also served as a missionary for fifteen years. Mr. Davis says that health concerns when he was younger led him to believe that stress, anger, and hate are very harmful to our health, as medical issues developed for him during highly stressful times. To avoid medication side effects, he learned that a healthy diet and regular exercise helped him feel the best he had in years. Though his ALS diagnosis came in 2011, Mr. Davis believes his symptoms began a couple of years before that. Told that he had three to five years to live, his symptoms continued to progress. After a particularly bad episode of cramps in his hands, feet, and legs, he began to keep track of what he had eaten. Realizing that carbohydrates made his cramps worse, he began to adjust his diet. He now follows a strict diet regimen that he credits with keeping him mostly pain free. Regular exercise also helps. Though ALS has taken a toll over the last fifteen years, he still drives, mows his lawn, and takes care of himself. Though he lives alone, he does have help from a caregiver during the day. He credits his caregiver, medical team, and friends and family for their encouragement. But he also acknowledges that his faith has been important in his life, even positively affecting his health. Mr. Davis has learned
Santa Wants a Recliner from Daniel Furniture, too! Courteous, Dependable Service for to listen to God and his body, to discipline himself to do what they say, and to believe with faith. Mr. Davis has written a book, America at a Crossroads. In it he examines how the Bible, once the foundation for education in America, has been dismissed as irrelevant. It is available for purchase on Amazon. Mr. Davis can be reached at livecommonsense@gmail.com.
“We live in an era clouded by powerful illusions. Our nation faces a crisis not just of politics or culture, but of truth itself. Too often, we are taught what to think rather than how to think. At the heart of this crisis lies a deliberate reshaping of belief. This shift has altered the moral and intellectual foundation of our youth, leaving America at a dangerous crossroads.” R. L. Davis
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If your guess is the first correct entry drawn
WIN $10000
presents:
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 12/10/26, Winner will be drawn 12/11/26. The winners will be notified by mail and announced in the January/February 2027 issue. All entries become the property of Yadkin Valley Magazine. Turn to p. 90 to read about the September/October 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
QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE SINCE 1957 11 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU
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The Mock Beroth family wishes you a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas.
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Congratulations to the winners of the September-October What IS That? contest. Lots of Yadkin Valley Readers knew this one! Many of you recalled using a tobacco basket like this when getting cured tobacco to market, but a few of you admitted only knowing them as decor. A couple of people helped to split oak to make them! I was able to find a photo of baskets lined up at the tobacco market, so that may bring back even more memories. Thank you for sharing yours! The first name drawn and the winner of $100 is Elizabeth White of Dobson. The second and third names drawn are Kent Steele of Jonesville and Kenny Reavis of Siler City. They will receive a Yadkin Valley Cookbook. Thanks to everyone who entered, and be sure to keep sending in those entries with your mailing address!
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
HOW IT WORKS: 1. CALL IN ADVANCE TO SCHEDULE REPAIRS
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2. Place your project IN A BOX* (NOT A BAG) 3. Place your PAYMENT INSIDE* the BOX 4. Place the LABEL on the OUTSIDE* of the BOX 5. TAPE THE BOX SHUT * 6. Drop off the box at your local DROP OFF LOCATION by the DAY BEFORE* the pick-up day
* Please follow ALL these directions to ensure that nothing is lost from your project. WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE? ___________________ _____________________________________________ Drop Off locations: 1st Thursdays - Mo’s Boots and Carhart: Boone, W Jefferson, & Newland
NAME: ______________________________________
2nd Thursdays – Wilkes County Hardware, N Wilkesboro
ADDRESS: ___________________________________ _____________________________________________ 3rd Thursdays – HG Greene: Ronda and Jonesville Yadkin Valley Quilts: Elkin
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4th Thursdays – Red Hill General Store: Hillsville, VA Harmon’s Western Wear: Woodlawn, VA
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 December 1 to see them in the January/February issue. 100 Spencer Nelson
Photos mailed in will not be returned, so please send a copy.
100th Birthday yadkinvalleymagazine@gmail.com PO Box 2077 Yadkinville, NC 27055 November-December 2026
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See your cat, dog, bunny, horse, or hamster in the pages of Yadkin Valley Magazine. Send a photo to yadkinvallymagazine@gmail.com
Annie
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Doc
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TJ
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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.
If your spine is out of alignment, it can cause tissue tears, irritation, inflammation and scar tissue. When ignored,this can lead to altered biomechanics, spinal degeneration and disabling osteoarthritis. Chiropractic care can improve your joint range of motion and break up scar tissue, increase your circulation and reduce inflammation for a faster more complete healing. A Chiropractic adjustment is a controlled motion that can restore the alignment and function of your spine. The Open Rehabilitation Journal states controlled motion “can stimulate the repair and restoration of function.” .
Everyday is More Fun When You Feel Fantastic!
We see patients every day that come in struggling to walk, lift or turn their heads. Yet, after completing their program of Chiropractic care they have returned to their normal activities. Don’t suffer needlessly from misaligned, injured and inflexible spinal joints. Spinal adjustments effectively reduce pain and enhance health... without drugs or surgery! Let us help you and the people you care about live healthier and more active lives. CALL NOW! **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.
Yadkinville Chiropractic Center
New Patient Exam ONLY $35!
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$1000 OFF 30 Minute Massage Introductory Offer for New Massage Clients Only. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 12/31/26
$10.00 OFF Chiropractic Adjustment One coupon per patient per issue. Not valid with other offers. Must present coupon. Offer expires 12/31/26
Changing lives One Spine at a Time...
204 North State Street, Yadkinville (across from Yadkinville Elementary School)
Call: (336) 679-8500 for an appointment www.yadkinchiro.com.
We Appreciate Your Referrals!
Dr. Jyll Downey
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!
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The Business Section
Stay one step ahead of cybercriminals Your financial security is only as strong as your digital security. A single stolen password, convincing scam or fraudulent investment offer can lead to lost savings, damaged credit or hours spent recovering compromised accounts. As our financial lives move increasingly online, protecting your personal information is part of protecting your financial future. Cybercriminals are getting smarter, and technology like AI is making their job easier. But fortunately, some consistent habits can help protect you from many of today's common threats. Watch out for phishing. Phishing is a common way criminals break into accounts and steal money. These attacks often arrive as emails, texts or phone calls that appear to come from your bank, employer or another trusted organization. Fake websites can trick you into typing in your password or financial details. To protect yourself, verify unexpected requests through a separate channel, such as calling a company directly using a number from its official website rather than one provided in a suspicious message. Avoid clicking unexpected links and consider using a password manager which auto-fills your login information only on legitimate websites. Strengthen your accounts. Stolen passwords give criminals easy access to your email, banking and social media accounts. Try using a unique password for every account and enable multifactor authentication whenever it's offered. When possible, choose phishing-resistant options like passkeys or security keys; they're harder for scammers to bypass than basic text message codes. Be skeptical of urgency. Scammers increasingly use deepfakes, which leverage AI-generated voices, videos and images to convincingly impersonate trusted people, including company executives, advisors and even family members.
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These messages often create pressure to send money or share sensitive information immediately. If you receive an urgent request that feels off, slow down. Hang up and try calling back to the person or organization using a known phone number. Many successful scams rely on emotional pressure rather than technical tricks, so a moment of skepticism can go a long way. Protect your money and identity. Fraudulent investment platforms and cryptocurrency schemes continue to cost Americans billions of dollars each year. Be cautious of investment opportunities promoted through unsolicited messages or social media contacts, and always verify a platform independently before sending money. If you're unsure whether an opportunity is legitimate, a financial advisor can help evaluate it before you invest. Data breaches can also put your information at risk, even when you've done everything right. It's smart to check your bank and credit card statements regularly for unfamiliar charges, and to freeze your credit if you suspect your information has been compromised. You may also choose to freeze your credit preemptively. Keep your devices updated. Software updates often fix security weaknesses that criminals could otherwise exploit. Backing up important files, whether to the cloud or an external drive, also protects you if ransomware ever locks you out of your own data. Small habits matter. Unique passwords, multifactor authentication and skepticism help stop many scams before they start. Take steps to help safeguard your money, identity and long-term financial goals. 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 136 W. Lebanon Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 336-789-6238 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
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Let us tell the story of a life well-lived.
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4517 Little Mountain Rd. Jonesville, NC 28642 336-835-7111
5108 US Hwy 601 N. Yadkinville, NC 27055 336-679-7111
What the Trees Know About Being Neighbors Did you realize that when you walk through the forest, there is a sophisticated communication system under your feet that rivals Google Fiber or AT&T? We think of one tree, one trunk, and one set of roots. We see trees as individuals, separate from the whole. We think of them as being alone on their journey, responsible for finding their own light and building their own roots. We learn from Peter Wohlleben’s The Hidden Life of Trees that trees are much more connected than we realize. Trees communicate with each other through their root systems and through networks of fungi deep underground. Through these networks, trees can exchange nutrients and water and send chemical signals. A tree can signal to other trees that it is experiencing stress or is under attack. Healthier trees send nutrients to a tree in distress. All the trees are connected. When one needs help, the others are there to support it. When one has an abundance of nutrients, it shares with a weaker tree. That seems biblical to me. The story told over and over in Scripture is that we were never meant to live as isolated individuals. God tells Adam that it is not good for him to be alone (Genesis 2:18) and creates Eve. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 12:26, “If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.” I believe there is a community gene placed by God in all of us. God designed us to love and support one another. We belong to God and to one another. We can easily forget that in the world we live in today. American culture puts a lot of emphasis on independence. We are not supposed to ask for help; instead, we are expected to pull ourselves up by our bootstraps. But self-sufficiency was never part of God’s plan for us. God designed us to be in community. Recently, I moved into a new townhome with neighbors who keep to themselves. We are all living separate lives without even knowing each other’s names. At my previous home, my neighbors looked out for me. They let me know when my dog
got out of the yard and picked up packages for me when I was out of town. Now I live on a street where we think, “I don’t want to bother them, and I don’t want to be bothered.” But Scripture gives us a different way of seeing things. Galatians 6:2 says, “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Paul doesn’t say, “Tell people to carry their own burdens.” He tells us to help hold them up when they cannot stand on their own. We are losing a world in which, when a neighbor is sick, someone cuts the grass. When a family experiences a death, casseroles appear on the porch. When a farmer is injured or a storm damages a home, neighbors don’t necessarily wait for an official organization to tell them what to do. They see a need, and they respond. That is more than southern hospitality. It is a reflection of the biblical understanding of community. The early church understood this. Acts 2 describes Christians sharing what they had so that no one among them was in need. Romans 12 tells us to “rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” And Jesus himself commanded us to love our neighbors as ourselves. Our faith tells us that our neighbor’s well-being is connected to our own. Think about what happens when a family in a small community is struggling. Think about what happens when neighbors live in fear and don’t feel safe leaving their homes, or when an older man becomes isolated after losing his spouse. When the community is weak, we are all weaker. It is tempting to see those things as someone else’s problem. Eventually, when children struggle to read, drug use rises, or 10% of the population is afraid, it affects all of us. Just as in a forest, the health of one part of a community affects the health of the whole. As followers of Christ, we are told that the condition of our neighbor or community should affect us. When one person flourishes, we are all better off. When a child learns to read, a brighter future is created. When neighbors discover that they have something to offer
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.
one another, the whole community becomes stronger. This is why the biblical command to love our neighbors is so much bigger than simply being nice. Love asks us to recognize that a person’s struggle is not merely their problem. If Paul is right, then their suffering touches all of us. Perhaps the trees have something to teach us after all. They remind us that what we see above the ground is only part of the story. Beneath our feet are connections we cannot see, networks that allow one part of the forest to support another. God made us for one another. The next time you walk through a forest, take a moment to look for the connections within the community of trees. Remember what the Bible teaches us: we belong to one another. When one of us is hurting, we don’t simply ask, “What’s wrong with them?” We ask, “What can we do together?”
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