Welcome to the "Faces of Elkin" Explore Elkin blog series where we celebrate one of the many incredible individuals who make our town truly special each month. These individuals are special members of our community who have been nominated to share their unique stories. Every face in Elkin has a story, and we're here to share them with you. If you would like to be featured as the "Face of Elkin" or know someone deserving of this recognition, please fill out this form.
An interview with Lori Rice:
How long have you been in Elkin? What brought you here?
We moved to Elkin in 1992 for Derrill’s job at Chatham Manufacturing.
How have you seen Elkin change in the last three decades?
The town has changed in many ways. There have been more people coming that are from outside of Elkin, which has brought in things like new restaurants, more wineries, and more experiences for families. People are more aware of Elkin now because of the great marketing efforts for things like hiking trails and kayaking.
Since 1992 you’ve moved to Shanghai, China and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. What made you come back to Elkin each time?
I think the sense of home. Our kids grew up here, we have built a lifetime of friendships here, and have always come back here because of the people. The people are friendly and caring.
Do you have a favorite Elkin memory?
When we first moved here, we had come from a bigger city, Greenville, SC and really enjoyed hanging out with people our age. I was a little worried about that, moving to such a small town, but when we got here, I found it so charming. We would go to a gathering at someone’s home and there were people of all different ages mixed together, having a good time enjoying and learning from each other’s experiences. The older people would mentor the younger people, and I found that very inviting and warm.
You have contributed to the community in a multitude of ways over the years. Can you walk us through some of the highlights?
A lot of it has been through education. I worked with the Parents as Teachers program, in the Smart Start Initiative, where I went to the homes of parents who had children from birth to three to teach them about their child’s development and show them activities to do with their child in each phase of development. I tutored at Elkin City Schools. I ran the Presbyterian preschool program as Director for a few years. I was asked to help start an alternative educational initiative, given my background as a Montessori educator, and so helped form the curriculum for the Yadkin Valley Community School, where I teach part-time and volunteer today. I’ve also been on the Friends of the Library board, and have volunteered through our church whether teaching Sunday school or helping with the Youth Group.
What are some of your favorite things in Elkin?
We love walking downtown and enjoying all of the new restaurants! I love walking the nature trails and attending Yoga on Main. You can’t beat Harry’s crab legs or John Boys biscuits, and we are so grateful for the addition of the Wisdom Table. We enjoy the live music at the Reeves, and all around Elkin. I love getting to participate in the local plays and the choir at our church.