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1 foothills Digest Fo o d Art Hist or y Culture Event s O pinion Style Summer 2018 North Carolina Kids Magazine Included $6.95 The Long Shot by Richard Eller Fireworks! foothills Digest Twe et sie Horn in the West Hikin g Adventures
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What do these Awards really mean to You and Your Community Hospital? For the sixth consecutive year, Catawba Valley Medical Center has been named a recipient of the Women’s Choice Award as one of America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Patient Experience. Also, for the sixth consecutive year, a recipient of America’s Best Hospitals for Obstetrics. This Women’s Choice Award identifies the nation’s best healthcare institutions measured against the needs and preferences of women, providing her the opportunity to identify which hospitals deliver the quality patient experience she seeks for her and her family, and for her birthing experience. This credential signifies Catawba Valley Medical Center’s commitment and passion towards an extraordinary healthcare experience for all patients, and is another example of the many ways we’re working to improve the health of our community. 828/326-3000 Follow us on Facebook www.catawbavalleymedical.org facebook.com/CatawbaValleyMedicalCenter Catawba Valley Medical Center does not discriminate on the basis of sex, age, national origin, disability, or race in its health programs. Español (Spanish) ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. 繁體中文 (Chinese) 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 Hmoob (Hmong) LUS CEEV: Yog tias koj hais lus Hmoob, cov kev pab txog lus, muaj kev pab dawb rau koj. Hu
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Vote blue for Catawba County Commissioners Paid for by the Friends of Laci LeBlanc, the Committee to Elect Michelle Morgan and the Committee to Elect Geniey Yang. It’s time for Democrats to have a voice in our County Government. You’ll have the opportunity to vote for three choices for County Commissioner. We hope you’ll vote for ALL 3 Democratic Candidates. L aci L e B L anc M ichelle M organ G eniey y an G
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foothills Foothills Digest 619 2nd St NE Hickory NC 28601 Phone: 828.475.1323 E-mail: editor@foothillsdigest.com Website: foothillsdigest.com Printed in Vietnam EDITORIAL CARMEN ECKARD JON ECKARD Chief Editor Principal Photographer COLUMNISTS Calvin Reyes Kelsey Crowe Richard Eller Heather Wood Davis Granny Eckard James Thomas Shell Gabriel Sherman David Zealy-Wright Ryan Gant CONTRIBUTORS Jeffrey Wilhelm Clayton Joe Young Carson Sailor Michelle Brenard Photography Students of CVCC
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Letter from Editor SUMMER 2018 Visit our site, foothillsdigest.com! Oh, this was a fun one to make! To me, foothills summers mean Tweetsie Railroad, lake swims, Horn in the West and adventure. We look at all those things in this issue, plus more. One of my favorite articles highlights the dedication that our citizens have for our communities. Communities are built one connection at a time, and the photography collaboration between the Catawba Chamber of Commerce and the CVCC Photography department highlights our citizens and those connections. You can see me in the picture below zip-lining over Lake Hickory. You’ll find a story about Tree Top Adventures, and I was thrilled to try it out myself. We’ve created a year’s worth of magazines now, covering each season in this region we love so much. It’s been the best year of my life, and I’m thankful to you, my reader, for making this possible. Sincerely, Carmen Eckard
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6 Contents SUMMER 2018 Letter from the editor Horn in the West The Long Shot Red, White and Bluegrass Fireworks in the Foothills Fox and the Hound First that Last Commitment to Community Catawba Crafters 05 10 18 26 28 32 36 38 49 Expanding Graduate Programs at Lenoir- Rhyne University Steve Abee Bob Sinclair Hickory Playground Renovation and New Build by Steele’s Construction Blow Up Immersive History for Foothills Students Curt Butler 50 54 56 60 62 66 68 74 Page 68
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7 Crawdads Fun in the Sun When it Comes to Stroke Prevention, Knowledge is Power No Backsies Breaking Down Barriers Dear David Eventfully Yours Poems Mountain Memories-Polio Photography 72 73 74 75 76 78 81 82 88 92 Standing Ovations to Creative Meals Served in a Renovated Theatre Recipes Kid’s Magazine Blackberry Festival Lakes of the Foothills New Adventure Park High in the Treetops Hiking in the Hills Tweetsie Railroad Boggs Farm Center Great Balls of Fire 79 84 91 92 94 98 102 106 116 122 Page 94 Page 38 Page 106
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8 Subscribe Our partner company is Eckard Photographic, and you’ll notice that most of our photography is by Jon Eckard. He is a commercial photographer based in Hickory, North Carolina. He is quite good at assessing the needs of your business and delivering high quality photography quickly and at fair rates. We think the quality of his work speaks for itself, and we hope you will call as business needs arise. HTTP://ECKARDPHOTOGRAPHIC.COM | 828.475.1323 You can always subscribe online at http://foothillsdigest.com , but you can also fill out this form and send it in to: Foothills Digest/619 2nd St NE/Hickory NC, 28601. Name: Address: Phone: Subscriptions are $22 per year and we publish quarterly. Shipping is $14. Please enclose a check or your credit card information. Cards are charged $36 one time. Card Number: Expiration: CVV Code:
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9 started our brand in 1989 with a simple ethos: comfort for all. Today, this mantra defines our being and manifests itself in everything we stand (and sit) for. Comfort lives within our founding vision and our talented workforce over 1,000 strong. It lives within our eco-friendly, American- made upholstery and the 75 brilliant children in our on-site daycare. Comfort can also live within you. We invite you to join our spirited quest to make the world a more comfortable place: for all. 135 ONE COMFORTABLE PLACE, TAYLORSVILLE, NC | 828.632.9200 | MGBWHOME.COM FOR CAREER OPPORTUNITIES, PLEASE VISIT MGBWHOME.COM/CAREERS.HTML
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10 H o r n I n T h e W e s t An Outdoor Drama about the role of our people in the Revolutionary War By: Carson L. Sailor, MA As the sun hangs low on a summer evening over the Blue Ridge Mountains, a ritual in practice for 67 years once again once again plays out in the gloaming. High above Boone, NC sits the Daniel Boone Amphitheatre, home to Horn in the West, an outdoor drama of revolutionary origins. Since 1952 the Southern Appalachian Historical Association in partnership with the Town of Boone, Watauga County, Appalachian State University, and the community has come together to put on a Broadway quality theatrical production. The show focuses on Daniel Boone, American Revolution, and those who set out to make a new life for themselves in the Blue Ridge. The qualities of these intrepid settlers were shared by the community leaders who founded Horn in the West. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show, as we pull the curtain back on the High Country’s oldest theatrical production. The story of Horn in the West in many ways begins in earnest with the end of World War Two. GI’s with a little money in their pocket, and a booming economy set the stage for the rise of the automobile For the first time in American History since the great Manifest Destiny that drove Westward Expansion, people were able to travel and experience their country. The nation was alive! This rise in American patriotism led to an increased interest in the history of the United States. Outdoor Dramas began to pop up all over the country sharing their regional history and placing their area in the larger American narrative.
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11 Photo by Aaron Bridgman
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12 In 1949 Watauga County was posed to celebrate its 100th anniversary. The community came together to author and produce “Echoes of the Blue Ridge” a 3 hour 400 actor pageant that told the complete story of the area from colonial settlement up to the present. A large stage was created outside to host the show but a rainstorm forced the play inside. With low turnout the community decided that they would not let all of their efforts go to waste, so they decided to celebrate their centennial again the next year. In 1950 the show was a massive hit! Building off the success of “Echoes of the Blue Ridge” prominent High Country figures wanted to explore the option of creating a permanent outdoor drama. Outdoor drama’s were successful throughout North Carolina and creating one in the budding tourism destination of Boone made sense. Constance Stallings visited the state’s oldest outdoor drama, “The Lost Colony”. After dealing with terrible road conditions, out of order bathrooms, and hawk sized mosquitoes, declared at a meeting of interested parties, “We can do better than that!” The Community immediately jumped on board with the idea of a permanent outdoor drama. Business leaders believed that an outdoor drama could be worth more than eight factories. IG Greer of UNC-Chapel Hill because of his understanding of mountain culture. It was determined that the show would not exploit the hillbilly image that was prevalent at the time, but would show the true character of mountain people. On September 15, 1951 Herman Wilcox, Dr. Whitner, Mr. and Mrs. Pritchett, Bob Agle, Charlie Wilfong, Carrier Winkler, and Ralph Winkler met to begin the process of producing an outdoor drama. This included not only hiring renowned playwright Kermit Hunter, but also building an amphitheatre. On December 9, 1951 eighty five citizens met to form the Southern Appalachian Historical Association with the intent producing an outdoor drama in Boone. Twenty four individuals pledge $1000 to begin construction. In March of 1952 ground was broken on Daniel Boone Amphitheatre. Horn in the West opened on June 27, of 1952, barely 16 weeks after ground was broken on the amphitheater. 7,000 tickets were sold in the first 10 days alone. Fans drove from all over to see Daniel Boone guide North Carolina’s in their struggle from freedom from the British Crown. After the show closed after the first season, over 54,000 guests had seen “Horn in the West”. Kermit Hunter wrote a script that followed the plight of colonists who fought in the battle of Alamance and were forced to flee to the mountains. Hunter never meant for the show to be a historically accurate documentary, but rather a compelling story that captured the zeitgeist of Revolutionary North Carolina. The Drama brings to life the famous frontiersman Daniel Boone and the hardy mountain settlers of this region in their struggle to preserve their freedom during the turbulent years before and during the War for Independence. The drama highlights those settlers who came to the Blue Ridge Mountains seeking freedom and escape from British tyranny. Dr. Geoffrey Stuart, a prominent British physician, comes to the Colony of Carolina to study the dreaded disease smallpox, bringing his wife, Martha, and their teenage son, Jack. In May of 1771, a band of North Carolina colonists who call themselves “Regulators” take up arms against the British authorities and Governor William Tryon. After being soundly defeated at the Battle of Alamance Creek, the band of ragtag rebels and their families are forced to flee westward, into the wilderness, to avoid being captured and hanged. Captain MacKenzie, a brutal British officer, vows to hunt down all the Regulators. Jack Stuart, who rashly fought alongside the Regulators during the battle, unwittingly draws his Loyalist family into the conflict. Led to the west by Reverend Isaiah Sims and the steady hand of Daniel Boone, the group settles in a peaceful valley under the watchful brow of Grandfather Mountain. Through hardship and danger, house- raising and romance, the ties that bind the Stuart family and the small pioneer community grow. Despite his conflicted feelings of loyalty to the Crown, Dr. Stuart finds himself a respected leader in this hidden mountain community. Daniel Boone steps in and out of the story as character and character/narrator, helping guide Dr. Stuart’s transformation into a free thinker and bona fide mountain man.
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13 The doctor’s aid and expertise lead to an uneasy alliance between the settlers and the Cherokee Indians. While the British are attempting to urge the Cherokee to wage war against all white settlers, Dr. Stuart’s medical efforts among the natives leads to a friendship between the Cherokee and the villagers. With the help of Nane’hi (Nancy Ward), “Beloved Woman” of the Cherokee people and Daniel Boone, the mountain settlement remains free of war for the time being. Dr. Stuart must eventually choose between his love for his son and his loyalty to England. Ultimately, Stuart joins his now-grown son Jack and his neighbors as they march with the Overmountain Men on the long trek to King’s Mountain. There they fight the ultimate battle in the War for Independence, to keep British Major Patrick Ferguson from keeping his promise to “…march this army over the mountains, hang your leaders, and lay waste your country with fire and sword.” Year after year, the sounds of Horn in the West paired with the North Carolina summer echo across the theatre and draw in guests from around the nation. Both guests and actors alike are charmed by Horn in the West and its lasting legacy. Guests return through the seasons to share the history of the Blue Ridge with their families to carry on a tradition of entertainment and family fellowship. Actors return season by season to partake in the oldest Revolutionary outdoor drama to partake in its lasting legacy amongst outdoor theatres. Horn in the West considers itself a teaching theatre and strives to aid performers with their first professional theatre experience. Engaging individuals through “historical education and cultural entertainment,” the Southern Appalachian Historical Association has supported Horn in the West through its sixty-sixth season, and has ensured the preservation of the diverse culture and history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Let the summer breeze surround you as Horn in the West invites you to join Daniel Boone, Nancy Ward, and the Overmountain Men as they accomplish something Truly Revolutionary. Horn in the West’s 2018 Season will run from June 22nd- August 12th Nightly Except Mondays Join us this year for the return of the beloved Fire Dance! Be sure to bring this article for a special discount!
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14 Photo by Aaron Bridgman This scene from the nation’s second oldest Outdoor Drama is engaging, entertaining and lighthearted. Scenes run the gamut from hilarious to heartbreaking. This scene features Preacher Sims, played again this year by Darrell King.
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16 Located on the ground of Horn in the West is the HICKORY RIDGE LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM . The museum serves as the historical companion to the show by sharing 18th century mountain life to guests. Hickory Ridge is home to 8 period structures from around the area which serve as the stage for costumed interpreters as they interact with guests. The museum is open April-November daily except Sundays with tours at 10am and 2pm, and nightly at 5:30 before all Horn in the West performances. Photo by Aaron Bridgman
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17 Reserve online at www.treetopalh.org 828-215-1914 6692 Valwood Road, Conover Monday-Saturday: 9am-5pm Sundays: 1-5pm Let the adventure begin! Mention this ad for 10% off!* *Valid in the month of July 2018, Mon-Fri.
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19 The Long Shot American history is full of improbable heroes. The most unlikely revolves around a small group who refused to be bound by the dictates of a king. They lived in and around the Appalachian Mountains as farmers, landowners, and squatters, some in direct defiance to King George’s line that divided acceptable living space west of what is now the Blue Ridge Parkway. Individually, they were of no real importance to the leaders of the colonies up in Philadelphia, who were part of the Continental Congress, trying to work a deal with the king. Yet they were the ones who brought the British to their knees. They were the Overmountain Men. We recognize them mainly by the cities and counties that took their names as a memorial. Benjamin Cleveland, Isaac Shelby, Joseph Winston, Charles McDowell. These were men who largely stayed out of the war for independence. They did as they pleased in establishing their homes. John Sevier lived well over King George’s 1763 Proclamation line that forbid settling on the Tennessee side of the mountains. When the war came he and other pioneers remained relatively unconcerned, until the British began their “southern strategy.” After a four-year stalemate in the North with empty victories like Bunker Hill and Long Island, and outright losses like Saratoga, the British came south, where all they loyalists lived (or so they thought). If the king’s army starts in Georgia and South Carolina, sweeping up the eastern seaboard, gathering those loyal to the crown, called Tories, the British would be unstoppable by the time they met George Washington’s army again. Along the way though, something happened. The invasion of Savannah went well, the effort to take Charleston, By Richard Eller
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20 waste their country” if they threatened to take up arms against him. The threat only angered the frontiersmen and set them on a course to make him pay for his insult. Then he issued a proclamation. In it he took a novel approach to gathering those loyal to the king. He shamed those who did not rally to his cause. Today known as the “Pissing Proclamation” Ferguson asserted that all ‘real men’ were loyal. Rebels were mongrels and those on the fence had better choose Great Britain if they did not want to be “pinioned, robbed and murdered” by these “backwater” men. He also insulted their manhood by boasting, “If you choose to be pissed upon forever and ever by a set of mongrels, say so at once and let your women turn their backs upon you and look out for real men to protect them.” He intended to bully the undecided settlers to his cause of king and less so but still a win. The British routed the Continental Army under command of Horatio Gates, the earlier “hero” of Saratoga. He fled (without his army to Charlotte). The British were poised to push their juggernaut north, so confidant that Lord Charles Cornwallis split his army into pieces. He set up headquarters in Charlotte. One wing, led by intrepid and sadistic cavalry commander Banastre Tarlton unleashed a rampage of the South Carolina countryside, to the point that they nicknamed him a butcher. The other wing was commanded by accomplished military man Patrick Ferguson. He took on the job of flushing out the Tories in service to his growing army. Ferguson had a plan. First he sent word to the Patriots, whom he called ‘barbarians’ warning them that he would “march his army over and lay
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21 ”View at King’s Mountain battle-ground. This view is from the foot of the hill, whereon the hottest of the fight occurred. The north slope of that eminence is seen on the left. In the center, within a sort of basin, into which several ravines converge, is seen the simple monument erected to the memory of Ferguson and others; and in the foreground, on the right, is seen the great tulip-tree, upon which, tradition says, ten Tories were hung.”—Lossing, 1851 empire, picking up a few nervous Patriots along the way. Instead, he alienated the men of the back country enough for them to unite against him. Shelby, Sevier, and company had already decided a course of action to combat this threat. Their approach was simple; Hunt Ferguson down. On September 23rd, they began to gather. From Abingdon, Virginia down to Sycamore Shoals, part of the Watauga Settlement then, Tennessee now, they came, gathering strength. A week after starting the Overmountain Men bivouacked at Quaker Meadows in Morganton, the home of Colonel Charles McDowell. He lent his services to the cause. Word came from the South that Edward Lacy raised a contingent from South Carolina and Georgia. Patriots were closing in on Ferguson. Major Patrick Ferguson for all his bravado in the issue of his proclamation was no bluff. A Scot in the British Army, he received a commission to lead the 71st Highlanders, developed an early breach-loading rifle, and sustained a substantial wound at the Battle of Brandywine in 1777. His comeback entailed raising a loyalist army as the British headed north. He trained southern recruits with a whistle, blowing cadences for each move the new soldiers of the
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22 king were expected to make in battle. By the time the Overmountain Men found him his army totaled about 1,100 with him the only British soldier in the bunch. The growing Patriot army tracked the location of Ferguson growing ever closer while they rendezvoused with Lacy. The day before the battle, the group was camped at Cowpens (the site of a later battle involving Banastre ‘Butcher’ Tarlton). Winston, Campbell, and their men got word that Ferguson held his troops on the top of Kings Mountain. Time could not be wasted. They had to surround his camp and get him. Even though the Tories held the high ground, the Patriots were determined. The gang of Overmountain Men was too large to march the distance so those on horse were dismissed. But they had come too far to miss the action. Many of them grabbed the stirrups of a nearby horse and ran alongside to keep up. 900 made the forced march to get Ferguson. Major Ferguson knew they were coming. The same hubris that marked his proclamation remained with him as he sneered that “God and all his little angels could not knock him off that mountain.” In a way, he would be proved right. Ferguson’s commander, Lord Charles Cornwallis was only about 35 miles from him in Charlotte but was having his own problems with the “hornet’s nest” of Patriots around town and had no troops to help. It did not matter, Ferguson did not think he need them anyway. The Major had something to prove. Always competitive with Cornwallis’ other subordinate Tarleton, Ferguson lagged behind the butcher in accomplishment during the Photo by Clayton Joe Young
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23 Southern Campaign. The stage was set for Ferguson to prove his mettle. Patriots surrounded Kings Mountain by early afternoon. The last order of leader Joseph Winston was “every man his own commander” meaning each soldier had permission to take that hill as he thought best. Up the mountain they crept, surprising some of the Tories. Once Major Ferguson knew the battle was joined, he brought out his whistle to summon the enlistees to battle. Slowly the Overmountain Men tightened the noose. Usually troops with the high ground held the advantage but Ferguson’s trainees repeated fired over the heads of the ‘backwater’ men who bobbed from tree to tree for protection between shots. Tories fell, Tories surrendered, but the battle was not over until Ferguson himself fell. He made himself a perfect target, wailing on his whistle atop a large white horse. He even wore a red and white checkered hunting shirt. A desperate bayonet charge became Major Ferguson’s last orders to his recruits. Then it was every man for himself. At that point at least seven Patriots drew a bead on the Major and brought him down. The battle lasted for about an hour. Once Ferguson hit the ground it was over. The Overmountain Men enjoyed their victory. Legend says they had a special way of paying Ferguson back for his slanderous proclamation. They meted out the same act on him as he suggested in his document after night fell on October 7th. Either way, Ferguson’s body is still on that hill. Along the path that surrounds the mountain/battlefield is a cairn (a grave piled with rocks on top) that supposedly includes not only Ferguson but one of two women who accompanied the British officer, Virginia Sal. The other, Virginia Paul was captured. Supposedly, Ferguson had an opportunity to shoot General George Washington at the Battle of Brandywine and refused to do so. He said his sense of honor would be violated by such an act. However, his ethic did not extend to the frontiersmen of Appalachians and he paid dearly for his choice. After the battle, a few of the 700 prisoners taken were hanged for their offense of choosing the wrong side. The rest were marched to Hillsborough for parole. The battle proved to be what Thomas Jefferson himself called the ‘turning point of the American Revolution’. After October 7, luck ran bad for Cornwallis and his Southern Strategy. The Continental Army, with the help of militia like the Overmountain Men embarrassed Tarleton at Cowpens. Conwallis won a ‘Pyrrhic’ victory at Guilford Court House (losing more than he gained). His eventual move into Virginia landed him at Yorktown where a year after Kings Mountain a siege forced the main British army to surrender to that ragtag, gang of mongrels Major Patrick Ferguson has so disdained. The long shot hit its mark. The pivotal Battle of Kings Mountain has been both a personal and professional subject for Historian Richard Eller. His 2002 documentary “The Road to Kings Mountain” featured the participation of the Overmountain Victory Trail Association, a dedicated group of individuals who each fall, follow the day-by-day trek of the original Patriot marchers. For his work he received the Overmountain Victory Trail Award from the National Park Service. In addition, his ancestor, Elias Powell was a part of the battle, as an aide-de-camp to Major Patrick Ferguson.
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The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Print Collection, The New York Public Library. ”Battle of King’s Mountain.” The New York Public Library Digital Collections.
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Red , White and Bluegrass I n t h e l o w lig ht of s u n r i s e o n a w a r m J u n e m o r ni n g, al o n g a s o u t h - f a c i n g s l o p e t uc ke d away in a valley, Jus tin Fox and his f amily found w hat t hey had b een look ing for : an orc hard. T hey are t he proud ow ner s of over t wo hundre d t hir t y-five year old ap ple s t re e s in t he mo unt ains nor t h of Bo o ne. T hey are g nar ly, unmanag e d s hells of t heir for mer s elves, b ut wit h a lit tle tend er love and c are t hey will pro d uce many tons of f r uit. T he Fox f amily is c ar ing for t his land and t hes e trees: pr uning, pic k ing, and event ually, pres sing into cid er, managing t he orc hard holis tic ally, treating eac h is s ue t hat ar is e s wi t h foret ho ug ht an d p er s is te nce. T hey are now b uil ding a s mall cellar to fer ment t he pres s e d f r uit into tr aditional, s mall batc h cid er s t hat re pres ent t he prop er t y and t heir f amily. Jus tin is t he s econd place winner of t he 2017 Edis on Comp etition, and will br ing Cid er to t he Hic kor y area s oon. Be on t he lookout! Back in the early 1980's, the City of Morganton Recreation Department decided to have a fireworks display on the Independence Day. The department set aside a small amount of money and obtained a few fireworks South Carolina. That evening, about dark, there was about 10-15 minutes of fireworks on the campus of Western Piedmont Community College. Such was the beginning... Within a few years, the City's July 4th fireworks show (with professional fireworks) began drawing crowds that eventually outgrew the campus of WPCC. Traffic problems which sprang from the site being located very close to Interstate 40, forced the fireworks to move to the Burke County Fairgrounds. In 2004, the annual 4th of July celebration became the first annual Red White and Bluegrass Festival. That first year was a two-day event. Eventually, the festival grew to three days, and to a four-day event in 2006. Now, more than 30 years later, the Red, White and Bluegrass Festival is held at Catawba Meadows Park and has become one of the premier bluegrass festivals in the southeastern United States! So far, they’ve had visitors from all states in the continental United States and many foreign countries as well. Visitors from Canada, England, Switzerland, Sweden, Germany, France, Australia, and Japan have all come to enjoy bluegrass in this North Carolina town. July 4-7, 2018 at Catawba Meadows Park
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Become a villager! Join in our weekly volunteer days, check out our schedule of upcoming events, and donate to the Henry River Preservation Fund! Find out more at henryrivermillvillage.com For Jobs. For Education. For Heathcare. For You. For All of Us. Real. Positive. Change. KimBostForNCHouse.com Kim Bost NC HOUSE PAID FOR BY KIM BOST FOR NC HOUSE
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28 FIREWORKS! Our region offers many opportunities to watch spectacular firework displays, and they aren’t just limited to the 4th of July. From baseball stadiums to theme parks, many of our entertainment venues offer spectacular fireworks displays. On the following pages, we will attempt to list the largest fireworks displays across the Foothlls.
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31 FIREWORKS in the Foothills Tweetsie Railroad offers one of the most spectacular displays in North Carolina. They start on the 4th of July at 9:30, and the park stays open until 9. Hickory Crawdads have fireworks throughout the season, with a large show on the 4th of July. Be sure to buy your ticket to the game early! The Red White and Blue g r a s s F est ival lasts several days and features fireworks on Independence Day. City of Lenoir 4th of July Celebration is from 5-10 on the holiday. Admission is free and there will be live music, games and food. The Town of Blowing Rock is celebrating Independence Day all day long with events including a home town parade. Fireworks at 9:30. Gaston All American Fair offers an excellent opportunity to celebrate early! On the 23rd of June, they will offer a truly elaborate fireworks show. Mt. Airy offers a day of fun, starting at 10 am and lasting until 10 pm. Music, games and a parade round off the celebrations. Troutman offers fireworks on June 30th. They also feature a parade and a day of fun events meant to celebrate Veterans. Gastonia Grizzlies have four fireworks displays throughout their season, including the game on July 4. Buy your ticket early! Independence Day Regatta hosted by the Lake Norman Yacht Club, offers sailing races, fireworks, music and camping. Freedom Fest in Rutherfordton is a small town celebration Norman Rockwell would approve of. Fireworks are at dark. Sparta offers fireworks at Alleghany High School. Tailgating is encouraged, and fireworks begin at dusk.
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To set our region up for future economic success, we have to have plans, a Vision, and understand our position in the marketplace. If there is no difference in what you do, offer, or produce compared to competing interests, you will not succeed. If the target audience does not understand or recognize the value of your product, then you will lose out to more competent competitors. Simply put, our goal should be to pinpoint our unique strengths and leverage them in every way we possibly can. Focus on the basics of these strengths. Don’t assume that others understand the value. Our target audience cannot be taken for granted. Success will come from matching our product with what they demand. If sustainable growth comes from selling your unique assets and their value, then we need to take a look at what we are offering and understand, in 2018, what people want from the community they are going to reside in. Looking at a recent survey by the Urban Land Institute, a worldwide non-profit organization dedicated to community sustainability and growth, with regards to Americans: 1) The vast majority say they are satisfied with their community’s quality of life, 2) 42% of people (mostly older) want to live in a rural area or small town 3) Millennials are the most dissatisfied generation relating to homes, housing options, and community quality of life -- 78% say they are likely to move in the next 5 years, 4) 75% of Americans want access to fresh, healthy food. Previously, I’ve related the many educational and cultural amenities we have in our region. Appalachian State University lies directly in our footprint, five other UNC- system schools are an hour away, and we have several other excellent community colleges and private universities within our region. We also have many other inexpensive, self-educational resources that are easily accessible to the populace. Can we improve our community education capacity? Certainly, and we should, but there are plenty of resources here for individual empowerment. Millennials have become what the Baby Boomers have been in our society. They are now the largest populace in the labor force and the largest customer demographic in the marketplace. One in three workers, in America, are Millennials. Another recent survey from the World Economic Forum looks at what Millennials desire from business. Over 40% of young people think sense of purpose/societal impact is one of the most important criteria when considering career opportunities. They want businesses to be a force for positive change. In our community, we have basically lost a disproportionate amount of our young people at a time when they are having the most impact on the economics of American society – and that impact will continue to grow. What does that portend for our future, if not addressed? How do we reverse the trend and embrace the Millennials? Let’s look at some of the above to make some suggestions: 1) By and large, Millennials don’t want to live in a rural area. We must learn to adapt, embracing change and growth. 2) We must interconnect and build relationships with the major cities in our immediate vicinity. 3) Business leaders are going to have to think community, not just their personal self-interests, when it comes to business. 4) We need to find a way to get Millennials into home ownership, which leads to community buy-in. 5) Let’s facilitate the creation of a socially conscious agriculture and food network in our region to address issues of health and nutritional vulnerability. Many people tell me nothing’s gonna change. We don’t have a choice. Survival! --------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- America in 2015: A ULI Survey of Views on Housing, Transportation, and Community - http://uli.org/wp- content/uploads/ULI-Documents/America-in-2015.pdf Here’s what millennials really want from business, and why – World Economic Forum – Shakir Akorede - September 12, 2017 - https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2017/09/ heres-what-millennials-really-want-from-business/ James Thomas Shell The Hickory Hound Summer is here. It’s time for hot days and nights that never really cool down. Stor ms will always be around the cor ner to hopefully cool things off. Summer is that second part of life – young adulthood. You don’t want that party to end, but you know it has to. That is what the Millennials, by and large, are experiencing right now. The Millennial generation began around 1981 and is said to have ended around 2000, so they are 18 to 37 years old. Older folks might remember back then. You will see why these people, in the Summer of their lives, are the focus of this Fox and Hound article. Our community needs some more of that Summer perspective back in its DNA…
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Each little town and city in the United States is a country unto itself in some ways. Each has unique attributes and advantages, and though some are shared, each place adds a flair all its own. As our area continues redevelopment to improve the quality of life for our citizenry, we should always look to understand and take advantage of such opportunities. We have mentioned in previous conversations our clear advantages to draw on for growth, so this could be a long conversation. Let’s continue to encourage growth in the healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors by pursuing renovation and innovation. The cost of land and power is relatively low and we can continue lowering the latter with more investment in renewables. Marketing our available buildings at very competitive rates, aligned with modernization of the power system and the new investments already underway, will give us the advantage in recruitment and retention. We already have solar farms in the area to set us apart and that could expand given our open land and plentiful roofs. Why not plan for solar panels on every warehouse and building, and the teaching of solar installation along with other trade certifications at CVCC and local high schools? Why not a cooperative push between public and private entities to be more energy independent, with investments intending to raise the funds necessary to lower our operating costs and raise our conveniences? The historic storm in Hickory in October left some of our neighbors without power for a week, and our business for several days. A solar panel on every roof would offer at least some juice in the morning. That efficiency and independence is valued by everyone, I think, and if we make investments together we will attract people across the board and help the businesses of multiple generations expand. As we have discussed, the recent focus of National Geographic regarded Hickory as “the” destination for “Hipsters.” A solar powered region would be more of a draw for younger folks and industries, as well as access to diversity and a less processed lifestyle. We are well within driving distance of Charlotte, Boone, and Asheville. Our region already has hundreds of hiking trails and multiple lakes and that doesn’t hurt either. We have access to all the shopping one could need, cultural centers in our cities, and even chickens in the backyard too. That appeals to people, as do farmers markets and restaurants that serve more natural selections from local and organic farms. Let’s embrace the attention and continue to move towards more of a community concept in our food supplies, including gardens at every school, so future generations will have the skills needed to be more healthy and independent. These things will be noticed, especially if we advertise them to folks from many walks of life who value local products and progress. Our local economy has recovered slowly from the losses in many industries, and we are dealing with an acute opioid epidemic here. Let’s turn that unique challenge into an advantage as we heal our area with more health professionals and alter our legal outlook on the issue. Let’s focus on mental health, investment, and access to opportunity. This will help tremendously and improve the quality of life for everyone. Escapism is a natural reaction to feelings of helplessness that come from economic collapse, poverty, and disconnection from normality. We can do something about that with investment in each other and shared opportunities. Though manufacturing jobs began to rise again during the last administration, and continue, there are still many who don’t feel that access. What do you think? Gabriel Sherwood A civil di scourse
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34 Gabriel, I can relate to what you are saying in your commentary. As a middle aged Conservative, I have faced the evolution and flux in our economy over this past generation through my working career. Much of what I envisioned as a youngster simply vanished and I have had to adjust accordingly. They say, “Pain makes you stronger, Fear makes you braver, and Heartbreak makes you wiser.” I like what you say about the Drug addiction in our community. It isn’t just an “Opioid Crisis” as some would like to simplify it as. It is about “Escapism.” Once again, we see the disconnect. We have many, who consider themselves Conservative, who look to solutions through fear, intolerance, and punishment and think that is going to solve this issue in short order. What are we going to do arrest everyone? Has that ever worked? Remember Prohibition? It seems to me that you are talking about long term solutions and that is what I enjoy gaining perspective on. I like to think of myself as a person that doesn’t automatically dismiss things. You know I’m not here for debate as much as conversation. This isn’t a point-counterpoint discussion, to me, so please feel free to continue your thoughts about what you think we need to see for a successful evolution towards the future of our community… We can certainly improve our educational capacity, as CVCC and Lenoir Rhyne are proving with their growth. I recently had a conversation with administrators from CVCC and they were very excited about the K-64 program. It offers opportunities for buy-in to our community for those who may not go off to university, but also don’t have the access they need here. These students in High School and College will have the opportunity to train for a trade, manufacturing, or service career, while also building a relationship with a local business in the industry, like a traditional apprenticeship. This will create a well-educated labor pool, with the skills needed for a modern economy. Business and the market are a force for positive change, if we don’t allow fiduciary responsibility to kill a person because she got some acne, as happened to a woman with breast cancer who was denied coverage before good intentioned government enforced requirements for coverage. Good government promotes the general welfare and should defend an honorable level of existence for all citizens of our nation. We can do better in those regards, in the eyes of those millennials as well. According to census estimates, as recently as July of 2017, Catawba County’s population was around 155k, and 22.6% are under 18, while the county has an estimated 15.9% poverty rate. That’s 35,000+ young people we can plan for soon, and that’s estimated to be over 5,500 children in poverty in our one county. These midrange jobs, and access to them as we both agree on, are vital to our movement out of our youth retention slump and the health of our nation in many ways. Touching the subject of healthcare. If the young leaving is not addressed, we become a retirement community whose young are in the service industry or the manufacturing sector or in medical taking care of the older folks. Let’s also push hard to recruit young medical professionals and utilize CVCC’s teaching hospital and maximize our extensive medical infrastructure. Investment in our local public schools and institutions of higher learning are vital for educating those who will stay -- and we have unique opportunities for study to expand soon. If we can get trade school education offered, we will see an influx of people come here to prepare for understaffed industries. Plumbing, Manufacturing, Medical, and soon Construction will be taught locally with a pathway from high schools. Education opens doors…even when it’s education in hanging doors. Catawba County Census - https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/catawbacountynorthcarolina/PST045217 The Questions Yes Gabriel, each region of the U.S. has its own unique characteristics. There is a Russian Political Science Professor Igor Panarin who says that the U.S. will eventually Balkanize into separate regions because of our differences. A similar scenario is delved into in the trilogy of books “The Hunger Games”. Such dystopic visions are rooted in historical evidence. When differences aren’t properly managed and people aren’t accepting of realities, then troubles are sure to follow. I’m on board with your summation about the drug crisis in our community. This is not a law enforcement issue. This is a health issue and should be treated as such. As I have gotten older, I’ve been a caregiver for my Grandmothers and now I have to assist my mother sometimes. I have taken them to the doctors. I have seen the people who attend Physical Therapy, Rehab, and pain clinics. This is a subject I haven’t seen politicians address. There is an obesity epidemic in our community. So many people are in bad shape and seeking relief. It’s a lot easier to pop a pill or get a shot than to lose weight. People compound the issue by not moving and not eating properly. If you are in bad shape when you are younger, chances are it won’t get better as you age. The elderly and their prescription pill cocktails are a real problem in the community. The “Cops Episode” Trailer Park busts are nothing compared to the sad reality of what our older folks are experiencing… and honestly I don’t even think that most of them realize it. I find it interesting that our opening statements both addressed an interest in food issues. It’s all related. We have “Food Deserts” in our community where people don’t have access to wholesome, nutritional foods. I like the idea of gardens at the local schools. Maybe students could participate a few days a year preparing food in the school cafeteria. We certainly need to teach kids about food preparation, nutrition, and health at a young age and get them on the right track headed into adulthood. I’m also onboard on the alternative energy issue. I think we certainly need to build a bridge to energy independence as we evolve to modern realities. Conservative politicians have been much too dismissive of energy issues out of political convenience. Conservation (Conserve) is supposed to be part of Conservatism. The goal should be to make our lives better. Doing nothing does nothing.
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35 We are the preferred providers of oral surgery, wisdom teeth and dental implants for many area employers. No matter where your patients live or work, they’re close to one of our offices in Hickory, Lincolnton, and Statesville. Visit our website at www.omsdrs.com for a complete listing of participating employers and dental plans. Visit any of our three convenient offices!
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Firsts that Last: Experiences as Unique as the Beautiful Place we Call Home It’s no wonder there are so many people who visit the Hickory Metro and end up moving here. They decide that this is a place that they can see as Home. A place where we enjoy our small-town vibes but also the vibrant stream of events, attractions and restaurants. Exploring, traveling and learning evokes something in people that keeps them wanting to see more and immerse themselves more into a community. Our mindsets are changing when it comes to travel and tourism and with that the State of North Carolina’s marketing is changing. We are more focused on being in the moment and enjoying the people and the places where we are. The State has embraced the emotional side of travel and experiences; the things that give you the feels. Firsts That Last, their new campaign, depicts the feelings we have of a first-time experience- riding a roller coaster, our first kiss, our first time tasting homemade peach ice cream, you name it – that feeling stays with you. In Catawba County and the surrounding area there are a lot of firsts for me here. I grew up in this area, so I may have more than some but the first time I ever caught a Crawfish at the creek at Glenn Hilton Park. The first time I ever jumped off the dock into the cool waters of Lake Hickory on a hot summer day. The first time I tried livermush and loved it! The first time I trained for a triathlon running and biking around Hickory. The first time I was chosen as a child for the dizzy bat contest at the Crawdads stadium. The list could go on, but you get the picture. Those firsts will always stay with me; as I am sure yours stay with you. We are truly lucky here in the Metro. We are surrounded by pure pristine beauty in our outdoor activities. Lake Hickory offers some of the best bass and catfish fishing on the east coast, Bakers Mountain is packed full of great hiking trails, Rocky Face Recreational Park in Hiddenite offers an epic experience for trail runs and rock climbing. We have an extremely active disk-golf community and we host tons of other sporting events and tournaments at our great sports complexes throughout the community. As our area continues to grow I look forward to being able to expand our access to Lake Hickory. The potential for paddle boarding and kayaking on Lake Hickory will grow as will the draw to the Lake with the future River Walk. These are things that will launch our community into the forefront of people’s minds, bring more visitors to our area and even more people living in the Metro. This summer don’t hesitate, pack a lunch and take a picnic. Take the kids to Glenn Hilton Park and don’t forget to check out the creek and the “wetlands.” Take your bikes because there are some great trails to follow through the park. Support our local downtowns like Hickory, Conover, Newton and others on Friday nights for live music, outdoor dining and weekend events. Take the kids to local parks like the Lowe’s Food’s City Park- the kids will love it and the water feature is pretty neat! Have a Saturday free with just you and your furry friend? Take a stroll along the 1.5-mile paved path between Geitner Park and Hickory City Park. There are several stretches on that path that you’ll catch some shade from the beautiful trees but keep your eyes peeled; you’ll also catch some views of mountain bikers on the new trails! There is no shortage of fun outdoor activities for you and your family. It’s all out there waiting for you, you just have to go and explore. by Sarah Davis
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Adventure Awaits. Explore the Hickory Metro
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38 Commitment to Community Photos by Clayton Joe Young and Sara Fink, assisted by Abigail Glosson, Hunter Hamer, Rachel Hyler, Allison Lathrop, Ronda Stafford, and Timmy Xiong
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39 Clay Neill-”Let’s Roll” My first thought for a phrase was “Git er done”,but wasn’t sure of the proper redneck spelling and if would fit on my arm, also “Just do it” came to mind but too much Nike corporate on that one, so landed with “Let’s Roll”. For me, “Let’s Roll” translates into being a doer and getting something done versus simply being a dreamer or cheerleader. Nothing against cheerleaders, but ultimately need somebody on the field playing the game to have a chance at a win. Don’t get me wrong, dreaming is great as well, its fun and entertaining, and endorphin provoking, and overall pleasant and to some extent necessary. On the other hand, “Let’s Roll”, means roll up your sleeves and get to work, crank the car and start driving, put the plan into action. “Let’s Roll” seeks to bring reality to a dream, and is messy, and frustrating, and difficult, and tiring, and time consuming …. and ultimately worthwhile and rewarding whether successful or not, even though success is preferential. I think of stories of various successful business people that have some failures in their past, but kept on swinging and in the end were winners. As for “Let’s Roll” in relation to our community involvement, it means after we’ve defined a goal and devised a sensible plan of attack, then its time to get after it and fight for success and I mean really put some effort to it, as in not taking “no” for an answer when it doesn’t make sense and thinking outside the proverbial box on creative ways to obtain the objective. So enjoy your sweet dreams, then wake the heck up and “Let’s Roll!!!” Clayton Joe Young , Sara Fink, Abigail Glosson, Hunter Hamer, Rachel Hyler, Allison Lathrop, Ronda Stafford, and Timmy Xiong, Photography Professor and Students at CVCC- ”Stay Focused” We chose the words “Stay Focused” because of its double meaning. The photography reference is obvious but one should also remember to stay on track on what is important. To me this is my students and the community I serve. By working with the Catawba Valley Chamber of Commerce on this project I was able to “Stay Focused.” This provided my students a hands on working experience and an opportunity for leaders of the community to see the talents of my students. The Catawba County Chamber of Commerce teamed up with the photography department at CVCC to create these images that highlight the commitment of individuals that helps our communities thrive. What are your words?
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40 Lindsay Keisler, President/CEO of the Catawba Chamber of Commerce- ”Focus” “Simplify to intensify.” This has been by one of my driving philosophies since assuming my role. What are the most critical community issues that are impacting business in Catawba County? Inhibiting growth? Impacting business’ ability to maximize profit? Our Chamber is laser-focused on filling jobs and population growth. From small business to large industry – whether you own a downtown retail shop or restaurant, or manufacture products that are exported all over the world or simply live and work here, unfilled positions and a projected decline in working age population impacts you. Don’t think so or not sure how? Let’s chat! I’m committed to working both alongside of, and on behalf of business to craft the vibrant future of Catawba County. Scott Millar, President, Catawba County Economic Development Corporation- ”Slay the Woolly Mammoth” To accomplish big hairy brutish goals you have to work together. This community works hard to do great things individually-to slay a woolly mammoth you all have to be throwing your spear at the same place. Singleness and unity of purpose are the keys. If we focus on throwing our spears at the same things, we can slay the big issues that we face. If we don’t, then we can all valiantly and courageously be less than effective.
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41 Representative Jay Adams, NC House of Representatives- ”Total Commitment” “Total commitment” is seeing the task through no matter where it takes you, no matter how long it takes. “Total commitment” reflects my personal motivation to make decisions that will result in our communities and our region being a high performing, high quality place to work and live. I make those decisions with all of the resources and capabilities I have personally and those I observe in our communities. “Total commitment” involves being keen to what is going on around you, detecting opportunities and acting on them quickly. It comes from an understanding of the resources you can bring to bear and developing and refining capabilities to capture more opportunities in the future. It requires knowledge, understanding and comprehension. It requires a network of involved people. In these respects, my assets come from involvement in activities. Many years ago I got involved with the Catawba County Chamber of Commerce. I served on several committees and discovered interest in transportation, air quality, land use and other community related matters. I made a lot of contacts. My involvement led to a seat on the Western Piedmont Council of Governments Metropolitan Planning Organization. I developed interest in community development projects like the Center City Study and I served on the first Hickory By Choice Committee from 1998-2000. “Total commitment” never ends. Mick Berry, Catawba County Manager-”GRIT” Change at any level is a huge challenge, one of the hardest things we ever do- but also one of the most important. Our community is big, complex and vibrant with many wonderful people and places, but also with challenges. For our future to be as successful as our past, we as a community will have to grow and change. We will have to take risks and endure failures. We will have to learn to work well with people who are not like us and maybe even embrace them. Quitting is not an option. So I chose the simple word “Grit” to remind me that this is and will continue to be a tough job, but we are up to it. AND one of my favorite movies is the Cohen Brother’s remake of the old John Wayne classic- True Grit.
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42 Tracy Hall, Director of Education Matters-”Create and Engage” I chose the words CREATE and ENGAGE as these are the actions that I am excited to implement in my role every day. Education Matters is a partnership with business, education, and government all working together to help students in our public school systems understand the necessity to graduate from high school and the post-secondary training and education needed for careers in our region. I do this by creating innovative events and activities to connect students with community leaders in meaningful experiences. Over 12,500 8th graders and their teachers have toured and engaged with industry to learn about science, technology, engineering and math careers during the EXTREME STEM Tour. High school sophomores attend the CVCC Campus Extravaganza, where the students participate in hands on activities in CVCC programs that relate to their career interests. I have created a unique event for high school seniors called the Education Matters Career Prep Conference where they participate in mock interviews with our business leaders, have a meet and greet activity with the Hickory Young Professionals, learn about higher education offerings in our region, and tour the CVCC campus. I am highly motivated when I am able to use my creativity to bring people together to make a positive impact in our community. I am grateful for the collaborative spirit of our partners and their willingness to get involved with our schools to ensure student success. Kathy Greathouse, Executive Director of the United Arts Council-”Creative Economy” An impact study conducted by the United Arts Council of Catawba County proved it – arts and culture are a major driver in our local economy. We are building the community we all want to live in, enriched by artists, musicians, designers, historians and scientists. These are the kind of people who not only make living better, but make living more colorful and meaningful. I hoped my clasped hands would show a connection between creativity and the economy, but what I really see is all of us working together to make beautiful things – furniture, music, fiber optic cable, pottery, art, socks, theatre, and so much more!
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43 Adrian Holtzman, co-chair of Friends of Hickory-”Come Together” “Fractured” is how the Catawba Indians described this region, yet all of it connected by a river that flows through what is now Hickory and the surrounding areas. That spirit certainly echoes just as strongly today. There is something dynamic that I think we continue to experience as a community here. This place has weathered cycles of tremendous wealth, growth and success overshadowed by loss and difficulty adapting to numerous changes. We are bound by a strong undercurrent of resiliency even though the landscape may appear fixed or fragmented in places. We live in this tension between beauty and harsh reality, knowing what we could be while struggling to get there. It is when we “come together” in the struggle that we have hope, and remind ourselves of our potential for great things. We are the new “people of the river” and I am excited to see where this river will lead us. Allison Holtzman, co-chair of Friends of Hickory-”Do it” I chose the words, “do it,” because I believe that in order for Hickory and the region to put its best foot forward, we need to figure out a way to take action on our ideas. I have found since moving to Hickory that a lot of people “wish” that an amenity or activity was available to us. If we could take these great ideas and wishes and make even a fraction of them happen we could transform our city and region. Additionally, the city of Hickory (and other local cities) has made a lot of plans such as a biking plan, an inspiring spaces plan, a plan to improve our downtown, a plan to implement changes in our underserved communities... It is great to have plans and a vision but only if they lead to action. ”Do it” is not a complaint to the public sector - It is a call to action to our creative and capable community. The private sector must engage and support efforts that bring life to our area. WE have to take ideas and make them happen. WE need to create, motivate, fund-raise, give, and invest. WE need to take risks and help make things happen. Let’s ”DO IT!”
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44 Kim Bost, Candidate for NC House: ”We’re” We are. Here in Catawba County, we are blessed to occupy a beautiful part of this country. We are a population of diverse, caring and innovative people. I love this place. But I know we can do better for all our citizens. So I am a part of a we that are running for office to bring a fresh view and make a difference for all of us. We will work hard to create a thriving public school system, provide affordable healthcare, and fund infrastructure, training and technology to attract new jobs and industry to our great state, and support the businesses that are already here. My fellow candidates and I love our people and this place, and are committed to doing what it takes to win and help make life better for all of us. “We’re All In.” Ric Vandett, Candidate for NC Senate-”All” In our picture, Kim Bost, Michelle Morgan, and I wrote the words ”We’re All In” on our hands. To me, those words mean a total commitment to ensuring Catawba County is a vibrant, thriving area in which people have good paying jobs, send their children to high quality schools, and live in a community rich in the arts. I am committed to seeing that this area provides a variety of activities and opportunities for people of all ages. I am committed to making Catawba County a place in which people want to live and raise a family. My commitment comes from years of being involved in many areas of Hickory and Catawba County. I worked for Hickory Public Schools retiring as the district’s Superintendent. I’ve served on a number of non- profit Boards of Directors, am a Rotarian, and, as a veteran, I spearhead activities in our area of veterans helping other veterans. Being committed means being involved. Catawba County is a wonderful place to live, and ”I’m all in” on helping everyone realize that.
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45 Relationships, the one word that can link an entire community, city, county, state or nation as one. Relationships are the foundation upon which many successful partnerships have been built. When properly formed with mutual trust and respect, relationships will allow a voice of one to be heard by many. Failure of programs and projects often times can be attributed to the lack of proper relationships being constructed at the beginning. Relationships are easy and simple to build. You start by having a conversation with someone, talking with them and not at them to discuss ideas. You don’t have to agree on every aspect of the conversation to form a relationship. The ability to have a free exchange of ideas is one of the great benefits of having a strong relationship. Relationships make us better people today and better examples for tomorrow. Don Brown, Catawba County Sheriff-”Relationships” Michelle Morgan, Candidate for Catawba County Commissioner.- ”In” I’m “in”. I’m all in with Kim, Ric, and all the other wonderful Democrats who are running for office in our community this year. I am in because I want to bring a responsive voice and progressive vision to the Catawba County Board of Commissioners. I am in to be an advocate to those who feel disenfranchised. I am in because I believe in equality for everyone. I am in because I believe that every human being deserves the dignity of having a roof over their head. I am in because I know that helping one person creates a beneficial ripple effect in our community. I am in because I believe our neighbors who are addicted to opioids need help—not jail. I am in because I believe our teachers can use all the help they can get. I am in because I believe our veterans should be treated like the heroes they are. I am in because I want to create a better quality of life for everyone in Catawba County. I am in because I love Catawba County and believe that I can make a difference. I am “in” because I don’t want anyone to be left out.
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Brandon Pope, Cinematographer- ”Birds Eye View” I choose the words “Birds Eye View” because as an aerial UAV/Drone photographer & cinematographer, I’m able to show Hickory & Catawba County from a different view point. Drones with cameras have given us the ability to see landscapes, buildings, and events from completely different perspective, only obtained before from an aircraft. The Higher perspectives make landscapes look larger and longer than they really are. It’s a great way to create better looking landscape photographs & video. Ingrid Keller, Executive Director of the Western Piedmont Symphony- ”Ideas” Quite simply, I’m an ideas person. I was born in the spring, the season of new beginnings. Ideas are new beginnings. They are the birth of projects, places, successes and even failures that teach us important lessons. They can be concrete or abstract. They can be simple or complex. Best of all, they can lead to innovation and they can change the world. Generating ideas is absolutely exhilarating. I love the creative process involved in coming up with an idea, developing that idea, implementing that idea and then getting to see that idea come to fruition. An idea can be incredibly powerful. Having imagination and an insatiable thirst for curiosity is key. As a leader in the creative industries, I believe strongly in developing our creative intelligence for the betterment of society. In today’s world, creative economies are leading the markets. Learning how to think creatively is more important than ever. Creative thinking encourages collaboration. It drives our industries. It solves problems. It builds new places. It generates value. It revitalizes our cities. And it all starts with an idea.
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Robert Oren Eades, Folk Artist-”Community Foward” When I was a child, I thought of community as a place: a crossroads, a bend in the river, a stop on the railroad, a mill hill, a place named and called home by the people who lived there. I was wrong. I now know community is not so much about place as about people. “Community” and “common” spring from the same root word. Our communities, then, are defined by what we share. Whether acknowledged or not, it is the commonality of its members that defines a community, no matter the nature of their shared bond. There are communities of interest, communities of location, communities of people bound closely together by time and circumstance, and digital communities empowered by technology to spread and thrive across the globe. We are – each and every one of us – members of many communities. Each of us has the opportunity to contribute again and again to each of those communities. My choice of “Community” is an acknowledgment of the importance I place on community. I want to find community all around me. I want to be a part of many communities and I want to work with others to create a shared sense of commitment to those communities. And I want to help move those communities forward. Forward to a shared delight in the pleasures of community. Forward to a willingness to look beyond the obvious community members and invite others to join. Forward to a constant focus on community: what does it mean to be a community? Are our actions improving our community? Have we looked hard enough to find community? Are there communities we have ignored? How can we grow our communities? Make them welcoming? Connect them together? How can we form new communities? What unites us? And because community is about people, moving forward means joining together with people around us to do good. I look forward to it. Community. Forward.
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48 Dr. Fred Whitt, President of Lenoir-Rhyne University-”ALL IN” ALL IN. To me, it means to be fully committed—to work, to family, to service, and to our broader community we live and serve. It means that WE (Lenoir-Rhyne University) will be fully present and engaged, and pledge to give our full effort and our full attention to improve the education, health and quality of life in the region- --being present and attentive is one of the most precious resources a person has. When we are ALL IN for our communities, we can accomplish almost anything. As president of Lenoir-Rhyne University, I see every day that our faculty, staff and students are ALL IN and fully engaged with one another. Our students are ALL IN with academic classes, on the athletic field and in their service to the community. Our faculty are ALL IN and engaged with our students, mentoring and providing wisdom to help our students grow and be educated for life, not just a career. Our staff are ALL IN when they go the extra mile to listen to our students and provided support in confronting life’s hurdles. Our LR mission states, in part, that we will promote responsible leadership for service in the world. To do that, we must educate and inspire. We must help students to become strong and also compassionate. We must prepare students to succeed and learn that failure is a process to success. It is a big responsibility and one that at the entire LR community takes seriously—and we do it every day because we are ALL IN.
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49 Jo Boone (pictured center) has been crocheting about as far back as she can remember. In 1984, she and her mom began crocheting hats for homeless people in their community. They used bright colors like yellow and orange that could be easily seen at night and they delivered some to homeless shelters in Morganton.. They also hung some from trees in places they thought homeless people would gather. Jo never stopped caring about homeless people, and she never stopped crocheting for them either. When her mom began to suffer from Alzheimer’s, she didn’t let that stop her. Two years ago, Jo started the Catawba Crafters. The group meets every Friday, where the work on crochet or knitting projects. True to their roots, most of these items they craft go to area homeless people. They’ve gotten in the habit of buying reflective yarn, and they are sure to include a reflective stripe in each hat they make. Jo hand delivers these items to the homeless community of Catawba County. She says, ”They trust me.” This group meets each week at the community table at Lowes Foods. This may seem like an odd place for a crafting group to meet, but it seems like Lowes Foods has set up these areas of their stores just for things like this! Not only does Lowes provide a space for the group to meet, they provide snacks! If you want to join in, just pop into the Mountain View Lowes Foods on any Friday at noon, and look for the table of laughing crafters. If you want to help, they are always looking for yarn donations, especially the reflective yarn that uses most of their budget. You can contact the group on their Facebook Page for more information. Catawba Crafters
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50 Expanding Graduate School Programs at LR: University continues to meet highest standards of excellence in graduate program offerings. For more than 125 years Lenoir-Rhyne University has flourished in the city of Hickory, growing to become a predominant figure of pride among the community. The co-educational, private liberal arts institution currently offers 53 undergraduate degree programs and more than 30 graduate degree programs across three campus locations. While the University’s main campus is located in Hickory, graduate d e g re e p ro g r a m s are also offered on campuses in Asheville, North Carolina and C o l u m b i a , S o u t h Carolina. Columbia is also home to LR’s Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary (LTSS) where programs are provided through the School of Theology. LR has a strong c o m m i t m e n t f o r meeting the highest standards of excellence in graduate education, and continues to expand upon its degree offerings which are designed to help the working professional balance life and learning. The University enrolls more than 900 students in master and doctorate degree programs. Most recently, a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Leadership program was added to the list of graduate degree options. Through the program, students will gain the skills needed to develop, analyze, By Allie Bentley. Photos by Wyatt Foster and Ben Jenkins
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52 and critique criminal justice policy. Coursework is provided in online and traditional face-to-face classroom settings on the Hickory campus. A Master of Arts in Religious Leadership program was also added during the spring 2018 semester, and will be provided in a fully online setting. Hickory, N.C. LR will reach a major milestone in its journey toward becoming the preferred provider of health care professionals in the region, as it graduates the inaugural class of Physician Assistant Studies students this May. The PA program began in January 2016 with the opening of the Wayne B. Powell Health Sciences Complex, a state-of-the-art facility offering advanced, graduate-level training for medical professionals. Additionally, a Family Nurse Practitioner/Doctor of Nursing Practice program will launch this fall, and last year the University’s Master of Public Health program received accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). Columbia, S.C. In fall 2017, LR’s Columbia Center opened a Health Sciences Center on Main Street, representing continued growth for LR in the field of health sciences, and signifying a strong partnership between the University and surrounding community. The new classroom facility provided space for LR’s Occupational Therapy program, an expansion of the program offered on the Hickory campus. The Columbia Center also offers programs in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Human Services, and Religious Leadership. The Columbia Center shares a campus with LTSS, which merged with LR in 2012, and is one of only seven Lutheran seminaries in the southeast region. LTSS is an ecumenical seminary with a mission to teach, form, and nurture women and men for public ministry. Its flagship program is the Master of Divinity which enrolls students from across the country. Other degrees offered at LTSS include a Master of Arts in Christian Ministry, Master of Sacred Theology, and Master of Theological Studies. Asheville, N.C. Lenoir-Rhyne University’s Asheville Center celebrated the grand opening of its newly renovated 6,900 square feet of space in April. The project added two classrooms, one seminar room, an entrepreneurship mentoring space, and seven offices. LR’s Asheville Center is located downtown, and offers degrees unique to the area such as a Master of Business Administration in Non Profit Management, a Master of Business Administration in Social Entrepreneurship, and a Master of Science in Sustainability Studies among others. Photo of fireworks at the Lenoir-Rhyne Hickory Campus by Brandon Pope
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53 Learn more about LR’s students and their experiences in graduate school at Lr.edu/studentprofiles. Nicholas Wilson Master of Science in Nursing “As a nurse, I feel the skills I have obtained through Lenoir- Rhyne’s graduate program have enabled me to become a great leader, especially in a changing healthcare environment.” Katelyn Holley Master of Arts in University Leadership “Through the University Leadership graduate program, I’ve learned to be a stronger communicator, manage resources responsibly, and build collaborative networks, all of which are beneficial as I work toward my goal of teaching and coaching in a university setting.” Amber McKnight Master of Business Administration – Healthcare Administration “I chose to pursue my Master of Business Administration at Lenoir-Rhyne because it offered a specific track in Healthcare Administration. I don’t have experience in the medical field and believe this degree will give me leverage when seeking employment.” Teena Brooks Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling “My internship at local non-profits provided invaluable hands-on experience and helped me grow both personally and professionally.”
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54 Steve Abee Steve Abee is a potter working in the Catawba Valley Tradition. He’s one of the “Catawba Clay; Contemporary Southern Face Jug Makers,” and perhaps one of the best known potters working in this tradition. Steve Abee fell in love with pottery after attending a kiln opening of Burlon Craig. He began to learn the methods himself, studying Burlon’s forms. Steve is known for his excellent swirlware. This is a type of pottery that originated in our valley and uses different colors of clay to create beautiful swirls. He’s also known for his instantly recognizable face jugs. At right you can see an example of both. This swirl ware face jug is an excellent example of Steve’s work. He uses traditional clays along with rutile, iron and other elements to create the color swirls. His face jugs are recognizable for pottery collectors. His jugs tend to have two rows of smiling teeth and flared nostrils. Cobalt pupils are also a trademark, and his face jugs are highly sought after. Steve is also quite skilled at miniature pieces. Both very large and very small pieces require high levels of skill, and these tiny pieces that Steve creates are detailed and perfect in form. Steve lives in Lenoir, NC, and uses a wood-fired groundhog kiln like all Catawba Valley potters. Because of the nature of the glazes used in this tradition, as well as the wood-firing process, pieces
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55 made here are always a bit unpredictable, which makes the kiln unloading a special and exciting time. Steve’s shop has a dirt floor, and his walls are slung with years of mud. Walking through it, it’s hard to imagine that art is created within those walls that will last centuries. His space is full of tools-a foot powered pottery wheel, an additional wheel, huge tanks for applying glaze, and lots of racks for drying. Just outside we find a beautiful ground hog kiln that Steve built himself, with side stokes to ease the process of firing. He also has a pug mill, used to mix clay. Like Burlon Craig’s his uses a tractor motor instead of a mule. Much like his space, Steve Abee is humble. He doesn’t put on airs, and speaks simply about what he does, but with great passion. The passion is as evident as the dirt, which is to say, it’s hard to miss. Steve is one of several working potters who are k e e p i n g o u r traditions alive. Buy Pottery Watch Steve Work Steve Makes Swirlware
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56 Bob Sinclair
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57 “He just doesn’t ever sit still - ever”, says his wife, Carolyn. “He’s cooking, re-cane a chair bottom, planting a tree, riding his bike to the farmer’s market, playing with the kids or making plans for some new adventure. He’s always busy - and always, always in his head I am sure the music is playing.” For Bob Sinclair the music does seem to be at his core – it appears to move him and propel him down many musical paths. Perhaps best-known locally as the Event Coordinator of the Sail Original Music Series for the City of Hickory for the past six years, Sinclair has many other musical irons in the fire. For nearly 30 years he has been an event planner, talent buyer and musical consultant for a wide variety of clients. Sinclair has a demonstrated knack for creating great musical moments and an ear for emerging talent. His skills have lead him to produce or co-produce dozens of music festivals (rock, folk, song/writer); manage the entertainment for national conferences; participate as a board member of various musical non-profits; physically help to build performance stages; help to evaluate and remedy problems in acoustically challenged musical spaces; plan weddings and special events; act as musical mentor to aspiring young musicians and produce music events for private parties, municipalities and special enterprises. He has been the curator of one of the longest running house concert series in the state. He was recently asked to consider the position as Executive Director of an international music association. And Carolyn says that Bob never stops exploring the world for new music. “Artists send him discs in the mail, he speaks regularly with musicians from around the globe and he hungrily searches the internet, music publications and musical friends to mine the next extraordinary talent to use at his events.” Is that what keeps him so busy? Maybe, but then Bob Sinclair also creates his own music. He is a talented composer and songwriter. He has been awarded a NC Artists Grant three times for composition, songwriting and performing; he performs at festivals and venues throughout the US with recent gigs at the United Center in Colorado and the Don Gibson Theater. Other notable performances include Spirit Square, Flat Rock Music Festival, Blue Ridge Music Festival and multiple appearances at Merlefest where he was selected as an Americana Emerging Artist. He has played at Charlotte’s Jazzfest and Duke University’s Garden Series. An upcoming performance at the famed Station Inn in Nashville with his band, Bob Sinclair and the Big Deals, demonstrates his wide ranging appeal.
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58 Sinclair’s first CD release of original songs, Always, was played in US and UK markets and was named a Top Regional Release by AAA powerhouse WNCW- FM. Songs from that disc have been included on compilation discs sold in Target stores, been used on the ”Fresh Faces of Merlefest” CD with the Avett Brothers and Reckless Kelly and included on the “Blue Sky” compilation discs of Colorado. As a solo artist he has played The Evening Muse in Charlotte; Saturday Night at the Bluebird Café in Nashville, TN; and at listening venues across the southeast. His reputation as an insightful songwriter, inspiring band leader and performer is well- known. Sinclair took a hiatus from performing to raise a family but recently returned to writing and performing and has quickly re- established himself as a significant contributor on the regional music scene. In late 2017, he campaigned for $17,000 to support the creation of a new disc of original songs. Funded in part by the United Arts Council of Catawba County, the CD From Nothing At All, beautifully represents the unique character of Sinclair’s songs and the talents of his new band, The Big Deals. They describe their music as “Original front porch swing music played by happy people.” The last few months have been busy for Bob and the Big Deals with a steady stream of regional and national performances in promotion of the new CD including the Ellendale Concert Series in Frankfort, KY, the Caves of Red Rocks in Morrison, CO; the Drendel Auditorium (sponsored by the United Council of the Arts), Isis Music Hall; The Grind Artist Series and upcoming dates around the southeastern US. Irish based band, I Draw Slow, said of Sinclair’s new songs, “We have the opportunity to see and hear lots of bands and songwriters in the US and at home and the original songs we heard from Bob Sinclair and his band mates was perhaps some of the most remarkable and real music we’ve have heard in a long time. Fantastic songs and lyrics, performed beautifully!” Grammy- nominated artist Sally Barris said of Sinclair, “Sinclair is a very talented artist who is creating original, fun-loving, country-swing. While there is so much great music out there, I have added Bob Sinclair to my list of special finds”! So, is that what keeps him busy. Yes, except that he is also happily employed as the Director of Operations at Atriax, a Hickory, NC-based, multi-million dollar architecture/engineering firm. Sinclair develops and manages the internal processes for the administration of over 80 design projects with design totals in excess of $80M. With Atriax, Sinclair oversees multiple national and regional design programs with the Department of Veterans Affairs and he has spent six months working for FEMA in the affected areas of Texas following Hurricane Ike’s devastation. Sinclair is the also main point of contact for Atriax’s new Kansas-city offices where he is managing six new design projects representing over $10M in construction. Is that what keeps him so busy? Probably, but then he is also an engaged husband and father. His wife, Carolyn, and their two daughters, Carter and Sloane, are a happy and intertwined family team that is often seen together around town. You can see Bob light up when he talks about Carolyn. “I’m madly in love with Carolyn. She’s my best friend.” he grins. Carolyn and Bob regularly host musicians from around the world as they pass through Hickory for one musical event or another. And they logged over 1000 miles on their daily walks around downtown Hickory in 2017. They talk and catch up on these walks. They are a good pair. His children make him smile too. “I am so proud of the people my children are becoming. They are resourceful, interesting, humorous, talented, mannerly and kind- hearted children.” The family attends music festivals together and they regularly car camp across the US for their family vacations. They’ve been to Maine, the Adirondacks and Colorado on recent family forays. The family is involved as citizens in Hickory – serving on boards or steering committees. The children often join their parents at community or City Council meetings. Is that what keeps him so busy? Yes.
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59 Have you experienced North Carolina's only known Natural Gravitational Anomaly yet? Discovered in the 1920's on the hillside in the historic Hudson Apple Orchard this amazing Natural Phenomena has amazed visitors since it was first opened to the public in 1948. Mystery Hill in Blowing Rock has grown over the past 70 years to include many different family friendly attractions but the Gravitational Anomaly believed to be caused by the dense iron deposits in the hillside continues to draw visitors from all of over the world every year. Starting this year new combo ticket options make it even more affordable for families to experience all of the attractions at Mystery Hill including The Guided Tour of the Natural Anomaly, The Hall of Mystery Hands On Science Center, The Giant Bubbles of Bubblerama, The 55,000 Native American Artifacts of the Moon and Irene Mullins Artifacts Collection, The historic home of the Founders of Appalachian State University at the 1903 Dougherty House Museum, Thousands of Fossils in the Appalachian Fossil and Dinosaur Museum, Mining for Gems in the only area gem mine to offer ore directly from our local mines. Step back in time with old time Souvenir Photos from Professor Finnegan's Old Time Photo Parlour. Some of the areas best shopping experiences with five different gift and souvenir shops on site. Mystery Hill and the other attractions are open 7 days a week year round hours vary by season and are available online at www.mysteryhill.com or by calling 828-264-2792. Visit Mystery Hill
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60 After raising and donating $13,000 to support local school arts programs, the Hickory Playground One-Act Play Festival is bringing back the most fun you can have in 48 hours! After last year’s smash event, local theatre company Hickory Playground is returning to the SALT Block’s Drendel Auditorium for another fun-filled evening of great art. In this unique festival, eight original one-act plays are cast, written, and performed in a 48-hour period by local artistic talent from the Hickory area. On Thursday, July 26, playwrights and actors will meet to randomly select their casts. Then they will get to work writing and rehearsing their one-act plays, which will be performed live on Saturday, July 28 at 7:00 p.m. At the end of the festival, the audience votes on their favorite play and the winning playwright and cast steps up to receive uproarious applause. This fun and fast-paced event is impressive on a few different fronts. First, the nonprofit is organized entirely by three young up-and-comers in the arts community. Dylan Tashjian will graduate this year from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and Stern School of Business. Jordan Makant recently graduated from LRU studying with a degree creative writing. Robert Fuller is currently working in film production at Plan A Films in Asheville. Each of them is pursuing a career in the arts. “In the past two years, more than 600 people attended the festival, and we raised enough money to donate $14,000 to local schools,” says Tashjian, producing artistic director of the Playground. “The support from the community has been nothing short of amazing, including support from local businesses. One of our goals is to build lasting relationships with corporations and individuals through the arts. That, along with being able to give back to the arts in public education and building a nurturing and inclusive environment for all artists, is the mission of the Playground.” He added “ The mission of the Hickory Playground is to invest in the arts in our community by nurturing the creation of new, original stories and supporting the artists of tomorrow. The long-term vision of the Hickory Playground is to engage communities around the world by enabling the creation of new art, the support of new artists, and the sustainable development of an artistically adventurous culture.” Klingspor, PepsiCo Hickory, Vanguard Furniture, Century Furniture, Valdese Weavers, Graystone Eye, Alex Lee, Brown & Neuwirth Oral & Cosmetic Surgery, and LRU all made significant contributions last year, as did many individual donors. Members of the academic and business communities are equally enthusiastic about the festival. “This is truly remarkable,” says Molly Rice, who leads the theatre program at St. Stephens High School and directs the Tractor Shed Theatre Company. “Arts education has never been more important. At a time when funding is being cut, these students stepped up and gave back not only to the local high schools, but to our community.” “It is so gratifying to see our former students engage in entrepreneurial activities to support the local arts community,” says Steve Clarke, head of the music program at Hickory High School. “We are extremely grateful for the $3,000 contribution and used it to fund programs that benefit current students.” “Often supporting the arts means more than just a financial contribution,” adds Molly Bass, who directs the Hickory High School theatre program. “It means showing up! And that’s exactly what these young men are doing with the Hickory Playground. They are creating opportunities for playwrights to write, actors to act, and production and lighting students to practice their craft and experiment. I would not be surprised at all if some of these people end up on Broadway.” “We met with several business leaders who not only made generous financial contributions, but also reviewed our business plan, made thoughtful suggestions, referred us to others, and provided encouragement,” adds Tashjian. “We were very impressed with their business plan,” says Hani Nassar, an executive at Klingspor. “The planning for fundraising, promotion, and production was well thought out. Whenever someone takes the initiative to develop a sustainable original idea that benefits the whole community, and presents a thoughtful plan to execute it, we believe it is our civic responsibility to help support them. We were proud to be the primary sponsor of last year’s event, and this year it should be even better.” “This kind of initiative is exactly what Hickory needs,” says John Bray, CEO of Vanguard. “These boys essentially created their own internship so they The Hickory Playground THIRD ANNUAL ONE-ACT PLAY FESTIVAL BRINGS LOCAL TALENT AND ENTERTAINMENT CENTER STAGE By Edward Tashjian
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61 wpsymphony.org (828) 324-8603 could learn firsthand what it takes to be a production company. It is highly creative and entrepreneurial, but best of all it benefits the entire community. People are not only entertained, but the proceeds are given back to support the next generation of dreamers and doers.” “Last year’s event can only be described as ‘the most fun you can have in 48 hours,’” says Tim Plaehn, winner of the first Hickory Playground One-Act Play Festival. Audience members feel the same way, and the Hickory Playground is now the buzz of the artistic community because of its fast-paced style of theatre along with its inclusion and encouragement of audience participation. The event itself features eight original plays (among other entertainment) and is less than two hours in total. The event is open to all ages with darker subject matter placed toward the end of the night. “We are passionate about making art available to everyone,” says Tashjian, “and we feel that the Hickory Playground is the perfect way to get the entire community involved.” “With actors and playwrights from around the community participating, the Third Annual Hickory Playground is destined to be another unprecedented success,” concludes Tashjian. “We have a goal of filling the Drendel Auditorium to support the arts in the community. The plays are a mix of music, comedy and drama, and each was an artistic expression with a message. We can’t wait to see the incredible work these talented artists produce next.” The Hickory Playground is a non-profit theater company dedicated to the creation of new theatrical and performative works by local artists. In addition to the varying projects we produce throughout our three-month-long summer season, our signature event is a forty-eight hour playwriting festival, held every summer. The Hickory Playground’s full- length projects nurture the creative process while allowing audiences a glimpse backstage and fostering a dialogue between creator and consumer. We are committed to raising awareness and providing financial support for talent in the region by donating directly to public schools’ arts departments and promoting artistic endeavors in Hickory, North Carolina, and the surrounding community. The Hickory Playground is a certified non-profit organization with a large majority of its proceeds earmarked for local performing arts and is currently pursuing 501(c)(3) status. This year’s event is on July 28, 2018, at 7:00 p.m. at the Drendel Auditorium on the SALT Block. Each play is original and is written and performed over a two-day period by local writers, actors, and directors specifically for the Hickory Playground. The plays are performed one night only. The event is free to the public but donations are gratefully accepted. It is recommended that you arrive early to get a seat. This year’s sponsors include Vanguard Furniture, Klingspor, Bass-Smith Funeral Home, Pepsi, Alex Lee, Lenoir-Rhyne, and Terra Dotta, along with many others. For more information, visit www.hickoryplayground.com.
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(828) 322-8011 RENOVATION AND NEW BUILD BY THE TEAM AT STEELE’S CONSTRUCTION The Steele’s Construction and Design Team recently finished renovating this beautiful Lincolnton home, as well as building a large new pool house. The team worked with the homeowners to determine what they loved about their current home and what their needs were. The house was renovated beautifully, with many lush features like Wolf appliances and custom tile. The team created custom furniture for the house as well, and the result was stunning. But everyone admits that they had the most fun building a pool house for the family. High roofs with visible rafters are reminiscent of the home owner’s favorite restaurant. The homeowners are parents of two, and were looking for a solution for entertaining large crowds. They enjoy their pool, their children, games and football. The Steeles kept these passions in mind as they designed the pool home of their dreams. They are Packers and Panthers fans, and custom theatre area boasts 5 flat screen televisions, as well as two rows of leather reclining seats. The space is the perfect b a c k d r o p f o r t h e homeowners’ three high- quality game tables. A kitchen and dining room make this space incredibly functional. Wolf appliances and a giant table can handle large crowds. The team designed a custom tufted bench with storage and the table seats 16. The bathroom in the pool house was designed with extra care. Custom concrete floor tiles are an excellent choice for a pool house floor, as they stand up to water incredibly well. This house is certainly r e a d y t o h o s t a n Independence Day bash, or any other large gathering. A l l f u r n i s h i n g s a n d accessories are custom made and furnished by the Steele’s Design Team and Boutique. A claw foot tub, beautiful lighting, custom tile and an elegant shower make this bathroom a true oasis. The design team pauses together. They work seamlessly together to bring designs to life. This breakfast nook offers a lovely view of the pool. Custom furniture and lighting fill the space nicely.
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66 BLOW UP: INFLATABLE CONTEMPORARY ART July 21 - November 25, 2018 Shuford & Coe Galleries BLOW UP explores the imaginative ways that artists use air as a tool for creating large-scale sculpture and includes imagery that is figurative and abstract. Accessible, yet rich with meaning, these pieces use perception of space and unexpected materials to open a dialogue about pop culture and social norms. “Inflatable structures connote fun and whimsy, and challenge our everyday, feet-on-the-ground perspective. The show creates a spectacular, immersive environment and taps into our fascination with inflatables with artworks that are surreal, humorous and poetic,” says the exhibition organizer Carrie Lederer, Curator of Exhibitions, Bedford Gallery. This traveling exhibition includes major works by Claire Ashley (Chicago), Lewis deSoto (Napa), Patrick Flibotte (New York), Billie Grace Lynn (Miami), Guy Overfelt, Momoyo Torimitsu (Tokyo), and Lee Boronson (Brooklyn). BLOW UP: Inflatable Contemporary Art was organized by Carrie Lederer, Curator of Exhibitions, Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts, Walnut Creek, CA. This exhibition was made possible by a grant from The National Endowment for the Arts. Billie Grace Lynn, White Elephant 1, 2007, ripstop nylon, chiffon, electric fan, 10 x 6 x 8 feet Use the code to access the exhibit guide.
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67 People notice your smile. Oakwood Dental Arts is a full service dentistry firm based in the heart of Hickory, North Carolina in the historic Oakwood district. Our mission is to help you thrive in our town. Whether you have a troubled tooth that needs help or want to get that smile you’ve always dreamed about, we are here to serve. We will work with you to create a plan to achieve the best oral health possible. Let’s take the journey together. 828-324-6235 OakwoodDentalArtsNC.com mckinneydds@ OakwoodDentalArtsNC.com
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Immersive History for Foothills Students Photography by Jon Eckard. Story by Carmen Eckard
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70 In fourth grade, North Carolina students study their state’s history at length. It’s an exciting year of history, because our state’s history is intriguing and fascinating. But, hand-on learning is always more effective. Science is easiest to learn when you are able to do science e x p e r i m e n t s . History is no different, but there aren’t many ”history experiments” that students can take part of. T h e H i c k o r y Landmarks Society saw that problem, and they set out to solve it. Their solution centered around a field trip to the Maple Grove House. This is a historical house in Hickory, NC, right along highway 127. The house was originally built by Adolphus Lafayette Shuford, a captain of industry in these parts. The house was built in 1883, just a decade after Hickory was established as ”Hickory Tavern” In fact, ”Dolph” Shuford was one of the original founders of the town. The house has been turned into a museum, and it is decorated to appear as it did in the mid 1890’s. The house and adjacent land provides a perfect backdrop for this day. A descendant of the original owners of the house is on hand to greet the bus loads of 4th graders as they arrive. Like every other adult here, save the teachers that are chaperoning, he is dressed in historical clothing and has a story to tell. There are several s t a t i o n s s e t up around the grounds, and each covers a different part of our history. A crowd favorite are the Spanish Conquistadors. This duo explains the history of Spanish exploration here, and they manage to be very funny in the process. The kids giggle as they learn of the grand trips and explorations. The duo explains that in Morganton, the remains of one of the Fort San Juan have recently been excavated. This was the FIRST European settlement in t h e i n t e r i o r of the United States, predating the Roanoke Colony by 18 years! After the Spanish left the settlement, it’s location was lost until 2013. The discovery has been a major advancement in our historical knowledge. Also popular was the Native American exhibit. A Cherokee family presented many of their traditional objects and described their way of life. The students were especially interested in the descriptions of handball, an intense
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Follow the journey... Retail Outlet GRAND OPENING! 3509 Hickory Blvd Hudson, NC 28638 828.396.9625 Open Mon-Tues & Fri-Sat 10 am-5pm sport that was the basis of Lacrosse. This game is still played at the Cherokee Reservation today. The Mecklenberg Militia was onhand to demonstrate what life was like during the Revolutionary War. Students were drawn in by the musket fire, but stayed for demonstrates on how to build a fire and make coffee. They were full of questions, a sure fire sign they were very interested. These reenact-ors were fascinating to watch, and students were able to see a medical tent, the sleeping arrangements of soldiers, and a glimpse of day to day life. Several Piedmont Wagons were on hand. These interested the students, especially a group of boys who stayed to listen to the history of the company, and ask questions about how fast the wagons went (not very) and how hard they were to maintain. There were also many craftsmen on hand. Demonstrations of pottery making, basket weaving and knitting helped the students understand how differently things were manufactured in our past. Everywhere you looked, our history was represented, and students were interested. This event, which occurs each year, was a clear success and we thank the Hickory Landmarks Society. You can find out more about the Hickory Landmark Society at http://www.hickorylandmarks.org/. You can help support the organization by donating money or purchasing their new book, From Tavern to Town, An Architectural History of Hickory, North Carolina.
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Curt Butler
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76 Curt Butler Curt received both a B.A from Kent State University and an M.F.A from Savannah College of Art and Design. He has taught at various institutions including Braitman Studio, Gaston Day School, Gaston College and Gaston School of the Arts. In 2004, he was recognized and honored with Teacher of the Year award at Gaston Day School. He has also hosted a number of guild workshops throughout the South East for art students as well as professional artists. He considers himself an artist who teaches and enjoys sharing his passion and knowledge with others to create a journey for someone else. His own journey has lead him to start his own business called Butler Studio, where he creates between 90 to 120 paintings a year for galleries, corporations, and private collections. In 2009, Butler Studio opened a gallery/studio in downtown Gastonia where he currently teaches small classes and paints full time. His interest in impasto and scumbling techniques is evident in his currently medium of oil and encaustic. The word encaustic literally means to “burn in” and involves a heating tool of some kind with the addition of colored pigments or oil paints mixed into the wax. “I enjoy the play of carving back into the wax with
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78 a palette knife to create different textures. Heating up the wax allows me to fuse layers of paint to create a surface that is varied and complex. Each layer must be carefully fused to the next to ensure there is no cracking. Stand oil is routinely applied to the wax to give it a little flexibility and makes it possible to work on a canvas surface rather than a board. I sometimes put the wax and pigment on cold and melt it with a heat gun, and at other times, I start with a hot wax directly on the canvas. I have found these techniques feel very sculptural in nature. At times, I am building up the surface and at other times, I am subtracting or carving into the surface of the paint. Encaustic painting with oil has given me the emotional response that I am currently seeking in my work. To be able to suggest a subject rather than illustrate it, to literally feel the surface of the paint and to be able to engage the viewer from a distance, and yet retain them when they are close are all reasons I choose to work the way I do.” His work has been represented in numerous permanent collections including Dallas Art Museum, Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens, Gaston Day Gallery, and Duke University Cancer Center. He is currently represented by Providence Gallery, Wells Gallery, The Design Gallery, Thomas Deans Gallery, Tyler White Gallery, Stellars Gallery, and Brandt Roberts Gallery.
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79 S t a n d i n g O v a t i o n s t o Creative Meals Served in a Renovated Theater Photography by Jon Eckard. Story by Carmen Eckard.
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80 WEBB CUSTOM KITCHEN In our Winter Edition, we covered the beautiful restoration of this Art Deco Movie Theatre into an upscale restaurant. We were enthralled at the transformation, as well as the historical details that remained. We loved the atmosphere, and the fact that you could watch vintage movies while you ate. What we didn’t talk about was the food. It turns out, the most exceptional thing about this restaurant is the cuisine. After we dined there, we knew we’d need to share the experience with our readers. Chef Jon Spencer has art in his soul, and it makes what he serves truly delightful. Webb Custom Kitchen is in Downtown Gastonia, a town in the midst of an exciting revitalization. The owners and managers of Webb Custom Kitchen are leading the charge to make their downtown a center of art and culture. This revitalization is particularly interesting because it’s led entirely by business owners. We arrived just as the restaurant opened, and already the aromas were enticing. We began our meal with fried green tomatoes, a side so perfectly Southern that it inspired one of the most quintessential movies about the South. I expected crisply fried, tart tomatoes. I did not expect the lump crab meat, tomatoes, sweet corn, peppers or the remoulade-all excellent additions that will have me ordering this again on my next visit. The combination of flavors felt like edible art. Next we were served a 40 ounce Porterhouse Steak. You didn’t misread that. It was enormous. In fact, it’s so large that there is a club dedicated to eating the entire steak.
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82 Anyone who finishes the steak has their name added to a plaque on the wall. All of Webb’s Steaks are CAB Certified Angus Beef and this one was aged for 40 days for maximum flavor. It was incredibly tender and flavorful, and left me feeling disappointed in every other steak I’ve eaten. It was served with a Chef’s Blend of vegetables that were roasted to perfection. The meal was very balanced, and it was all presented beautifully as well.
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83 We were also served a pork loin chop, grilled with black pepper and Maker’s Mark BBQ sauce. Buttermilk whipped sweet potatoes were served with chipotle stewed apples. Both of these usually sweet sides had a satisfying kick that felt miles away from tradition. Again, the presentation was artful. It’s clear that Webb Custom Kitchen isn’t only in the business of making things taste good. This is an all-encompassing experience. This delights all of our senses. We couldn’t decide on a dessert so we tried several. A New York tower cheese cake was my favorite, served with a strawberry rose and blueberries. A lemon blueberry cake and strawberry shortcake also delighted us, and the creme brûlée would be a fitting end to any meal. But don’t take my word for it. The restaurant is still new but it has already earned quite a reputation. Forbes magazine listed Webb Custom Kitchen as one of the ”100 Most Romantic Restaurants” in the nation! Open Table has awarded the restaurant the following designations: Best Overall, Diners Choice in March 2017, Best Value 2017, Fit For Foodies 2017, Neighborhood Gem, Diner’s Choice in February 2018, and Best Ambiance. The local paper, The Gastonia Gazette named them the best overall restaurant. And restaurant review websites are positively bursting with excellent ratings and comments. Be sure to try Webb Custom Kitchen. Go hungry. 182 S South St, Gastonia, NC 28052
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84 Roasted Beef Brisket with Espresso Rub: 1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees 2. Thoroughly combine all spices into a container or bowl 3. Rub onto all surfaces of the brisket 4. Place brisket in a pan at least 2 inches deep 5. Add water into bottom of pan up to 1/2 inch 6. Roast for 45 minutes 7. Remove pan from oven and cover brisket and pan with aluminum foil 8. Lower temperature to 300 degrees and cook for another 3 hours and 15 minutes 9. Remove brisket and allow to rest for 10 minutes prior to serving INGREDIENTS: 1 B eef B risket 1 t B sp G round e spresso 2 t B sp B rown s u G ar 1 t B sp C hipotle C hili p owder 1/2 tsp t hyme 1 tsp G round m ustard 1 t B sp G arli C 1 t B sp s alt
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85 1. Sauté Shallot and Ginger in Olive Oil 2. Add remaining ingredients in order and bring to a simmer. 3. Reduce until sauce becomes like a syrup. 4. Blend on high for 2 minutes (or strain sauce in absence of a blender) 5. Serve on top of beef brisket BLUEBERRY GINGER BBQ SAUCE: 1 s hallot 1 t B sp o live o il 1 t B sp m in C ed G in G er 2 C ups of B lue B erries 1/2 tsp C hipotle C hili p owder 1 B ay leaf 1 t B sp G arli C p owder 1/2 tsp d ried l emon p eel 2 t B sp v e G eta B le s to C k 2 t B sp s oy s au C e 1 t B sp of a pple C ider v ine G ar 1/4 C up of B rown s u G ar THESE RECIPES HAVE BEEN CREATED BY CALVIN REYES. CALVIN IS IN THE MIDST OF AN ADAPTIVE REUSE PROJECT AT HENRY RIVER MILL VILLAGE. HE WILL EVENTUALLY OPEN A RESTAURANT ON SITE.
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87 Potato Salad 1: Cook and drain potatoes. 2: Mix onions, tomatoes and pickle cubes. 3: Mix with potatoes while stirring in mayo, mustard, salt and pepper. 4: Mix until it is smooth and not lumpy. *Grandma used other vegetables like radishes and peppers or eggs to change the recipe up. INGREDIENTS: P otatoes 1 M ediu M o nion 1/2 C u P of t o M atoes , re M ove seeds and C ho P 1/4 C u P of P i C kle C ubes M ayonnaise and M ustard to taste s alt and P e PP er to t aste Strawberry Sorrel & Lemon Sorbet 1: Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth 2: Place mixture into an ice cream maker and churn for approximately 30 minutes 3: Move to an airtight container and store in freezer for 3 hours before serving INGREDIENTS: 5 C u P s of fresh strawberries , C leaned and hulled 2/3 C u P of s ugar 1 h andful of f resh s orrel J ui C e of 1 l e M on Recipe by: Hettie Johnson Rudisill Submitted by Anita Rudisill
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89 North Carolina’s oldest continuously serving bar Opened in 1932, Antlers Bar has been a Foothills Destination for nearly a century. Bistro Roca offers exceptional cuisine and a top-notch atmosphere. 143 Wonderland Trail Blowing Rock, NC 28605 (828) 295-4008 ww.bistroroca.com Fried Green Tomatoes 1: Pour enough vegetable oil into a cast iron pan to reach 1/4 inch up the side 2: Heat oil to approximately 350 degrees 3: Gather 3 large bowls for making the batter 4 :In the first bowl, place 1 cup of flour 5: In the second bowl, place 2 beaten eggs and pepper sauce 6: In the third bowl, mix cornmeal, garlic powder, salt, and oregano 7: Dredge tomato slices in bowl 1, then bowl 2, then bowl 3 8: Fry no more than 3 tomatoes at a time, and flip once until golden brown on each side (approximately 3 minutes per side) 9: Remove from oil and salt to taste. INGREDIENTS: 2 l ar G e G reen t omatoes , sli C ed into 1/4 in C h sli C es 1 + 1/4 C up of f lour 1C up of C ornmeal 1 t B sp G arli C p owder 1 t B sp s alt 1 t B sp o re G ano 2 e GG s 1 t B sp p epper s au C e v e G eta B le o il for fryin G Pumpkin Seed and Arugula Pesto 1: Toast Pumpkin Seeds and Pecans in a skillet and allow to cool. 2: Place all ingredients into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. 3: Add water 1 tsp at a time until desired consistency is reached. INGREDIENTS: 1/3 C u P P u MP kin s eeds , hulled 1/2C u P h alved P e C ans 1 s hallot 2 h andfuls of arugula 3 bs P of oil 1 ts P of salt w ater
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90 You need to hire a professional, someone who has the experience to keep your party going so that you can enjoy each other. Magical Music DJ has over 30 years of experience in the entertainment industry and you can relax knowing that they will read your crowd, then keep them entertained. (828) 391-1388 facebook.com/MagicalMusicDJ/ This is the biggest party of your life. The team at Steele’s Construction wishes you a happy and safe summer season! (828) 322-8011 Tim Steele is a proud Veteran of the United States Navy.
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91 Check out foothills kids Not only are these kids books printed in our magazine, but we also print copies to send home with school children. We need your help! I’m seeking partnerships to provide quarterly magazines for all children in our region. I can’t do it alone! It costs about $0.75 per copy, per issue. If you or your business would be interested in partnering with us in this way, please call 828.475.1323 or email us at editor@ foothillsdigest.com. Thanks! Carmen Eckard
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The NC Blackberry Festival In Downtown Lenoir THURSDAY, JULY 12TH, 2018 – “AN EVENING OF EVERYTHING BLACKBERRY” 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | A ticketed event on Main St. in Lenoir featuring blackberry infused cuisine, drinks, music and dancing. FRIDAY, JULY 13TH, 2018 – “THE BLACKBERRY JAM” 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm | Black”Beer”y Garden Featuring Local Breweries and Craft Beers 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm | Vendor booths open for shopping 6:00 pm | Blackberry Belle Pageant Preliminaries 7:00 pm | Live Music – Blackberry Jam Singer-Songwriter Contest 7:00 pm | Blackberry Recipe Contests 9:00 pm | Glow Run 5K & Fun Run SATURDAY, JULY 14TH, 2018 “NC BLACKBERRY FESTIVAL” 9:00am-5:00pm | Black”Beer”y Garden Featuring Local Breweries and Craft Beers 10:00 am | Live Music all day on starting at 10am 10:00 am | Blackberry Belle Pageant Finals at 10:30 am | Blackberry Festival Blood Drive 11:15 am | The Blackberry Eating Contests (Youth & Adult) 12:00 pm | Presentation of Colors Ceremony 12:15 pm | Colossal Cobbler Parade 12:30 pm | World’s Largest Patchwork of Cobbler 3:30 pm | Blackberry Jam Winners
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Photo by Mitzi BLACKBERRIES WILL BE FOR SALE IN THE STREET BETWEEN ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH AND SUNTRUST BANK STARTING AT 10 AM UNTIL THEY ARE GONE! VENDORS, FOOD, MUSIC, CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES AND BLACKBERRIES FOR SALE ALL DAY!
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94 Foothills Lakes
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95 Lake James Lake James is truly a spectactular. It’s large and beautiful, and a huge range of activities abounds. 20 backpack campsites are available, each with a fire pit, picnic table and tent space. There are communal water fountains and bathrooms as well. Lake James is perfect for swimming, boating and fishing, and it’s quite expansive. Many public access points make it easy to enjoy the lake.
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96 Lake Lure Lake Lure is best known as the setting for the movie Dirty Dancing. This lake has been called the prettiest man made lake in the nation, and it’s actually been the setting for many movies, including Thunder Road, A Breed Apart, Forrest Gump, The Last of the Mohicans and Firestarter. Beautiful views of granite cliffs, as well as lust flora and fauna make this worth the trip. Be sure to visit Chimney Rock State Park while you are in Rutherford County. W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir This lake offers outdoor recreation including camping. You can follow the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail and find Tom Dula Historical Markers along a trail. Bird watching and ranger-led tours allow you to connect with nature. The Forest Edge Amphitheater at Fort Hamby provides space for outdoor dramas. And of course, the lake provides ample opportunity to swim, boat and fish.
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97 Lake Norman With 520 miles of shoreline, this lake is nicknamed ”North Carolina’s Inland Sea.” Lake Norman, like Lake Hickory, was formed by Duke Energy from the Catawba River. Lake Norman is almost as large as the other 10 lakes along the river combined! The area around the lake has undergone rapid expansion, and many industries have been built around the needs of the people enjoying the lake.
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98 New Adventure Park High in the Tree Tops This new park features outdoor play for adults and children. Zip line over Lake Hickory, balance on beams between tree tops and even kayak! Plan a family fun day soon.
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100 Treetop Adventures is a new park in Conover. This challenging course takes you high in the trees, climbing over obstacles, walking on balance beams and swinging from platform to platform. Zip line over Lake Hickory if you’re feeling very brave! There are courses for all ages, and safety is of the utmost concern. Once you are linked into the system, it’s impossible for you to disconnect until you are safely on the ground. Don’t worry that you won’t know what to do: you’ll be trained in a way that’s clear and concise, and if you aren’t ready, they won’t let you climb until you are. This goes for your children too, so you can rest assured that they will have fun and be safe, just like you. I was excited to try to this adventure, and of the several c o u r s e s t o c h o o s e f ro m , I chose the most ambitious one. I found the experience to be very meaningful. I was expecting a fun zip line session around the lake, but what I found was a challenge. An honest to goodness challenge. I had to concentrate. I needed all my strength, all my focus. About 10 minutes into the course, I realized that I hadn’t thought about my next deadline since I strapped in. I noticed that as I was balancing, focusing and trying my hardest to get to the next platform, my brain was completely peaceful. And, well, get you some of that. I can’t properly explain the sensation, and it doesn’t fit on magazine pages, but it’s important, and I hope you’ll experience it. At Treetop Adventures, you can push yourself to your limits, safely. You can ask, ”Can I do this?” then push through until you find the answer, ”Yes,” without fear of danger. There are also other adventures available, like paddle boarding, kayaking and canoing. The owners are dedicated to growing an adventure center. This experience is an excellent team builder, and they host corporate g ro u p s , c h u rc h g ro u p s , a n d students. Coming with your family is an excellent bonding experience. I’m also excited about the future of Treetop Adventures. They are introducing Aerial Aquatics! Fly- boarding is exciting to watch and it’s amazing to have a local space to learn this sport. Call 828.215.1914 to reserve a spot, or visit www.treetopalh.org. If you mention this magazine article, you can get a 10% discount in the month of July, Monday- Friday. The Code is FoothillsDigest if you order online.
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102 Hiking in the Hills Photos and story by Katherine Dellinger
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103 Experience the Roan Highlands in Full Bloom This Spring Story and Photos by Katherine Dellinger Taken at sunrise, looking east towards Grandfather Mountain
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104 N ot far from the foothills of North Carolina lies the world’s largest natural rhododendron garden, as well as the longest stretch of grassy mountain summits (referred to as “balds”), in the Appalachian mountain range. This well-known section of the Appalachian Trail (AT) starts in North Carolina at Carver’s Gap and skirts the border of Tennessee. If you have the time this spring, make a day trip to Grassy Ridge Bald and hike along the AT to experience the gardens in full bloom, usually lasting from mid June to early July every year. Starting from the Carver’s Gap parking lot (elevation 5500’), cross the highway and begin your trek north through a section of coniferous forest before coming out into the open grassland of Round Bald. The trail is well marked and maintained and leads to Jane Bald. You will follow the Appalachian Trail for about 2 miles until you come to a trail connection on the right marked with a blue blaze. Take this connector towards Grassy Ridge Bald, elevation 6200ft. There is an outcropping of boulders that makes a perfect spot for lunch. Enjoy the view, snap some pictures and head back the way you came. Looking south towards Roan Mountain from the Appalachian Trail
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105 “Choose a Job to Transport your Career” Transportation Insight is Hiring! We value the attributes of professionalism and high-quality character. A successful candidate will value and possess these attributes: strong work ethic, strong communication skills, motivation to grow and learn, positive attitude, dependability, responsibility, honesty and integrity. If this sounds like you, please apply at www. transportationinsight.com/about/careers/. This is a very busy area during the bloom, so if you prefer more solitude, try to make the trek during the week. There is a state park restroom facility at the parking lot. Because you exposed with little cover and at a higher elevation, sunburn is a real potential - so cover up. You will want to wear some sturdy hiking shoes or boots because the trail can be rocky in spots. Additionally, there is no water supply in this section, so bring as much with you as you think you’ll need. As with any outdoor destination, practice “leave no trace” ethics and pack everything out with you.
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106 Photo provided by Tweetsie Railroad
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108 I tried to write this piece in a matter of fact way, telling you what Tweetsie Railroad offers without betraying my true feelings. But I couldn’t, y’all. I have to be honest. Tweetsie Railroad is my very favorite place. My boys get dressed up in their spiffiest cowboy gear and pile into our minivan for a trip up to Tweetsie often enough that our season passes are actually worn out by the end of October. I asked them their favorite parts, to make sure that I covered them here, and they talked, bubbling over, for the next fifteen minutes, explaining each part that they enjoyed. Even talking about it made them excited, and it made me excited too. And in 2018, with screens everywhere and disconnection commonplace, there is something magical about that excitement. Tweetsie isn’t just a theme park with a train and some cowboys. It feels more like Never Never Land than a Railroad running through the Wild West. That’s because Tweetsie isn’t trying to capture history, not really. It’s trying to capture the spirit of childhood, the spirit of play. Quite successfully. Tweetsie Railroad delights its customers with a wide array of entertainment, carnival rides, a historic train, a petting zoo, among other things. It doesn’t matter if you’re 2 or 84-there are things that will entertain you at Tweetsie Railroad. Read on for descriptions of the park and my tips. By Carmen Eckard Photo by Aaron Bridgman
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109 The first thing we do when we arrive is hop aboard the train. It pulls up right by the main entrance and a bell will ring for about five minutes before it leaves. It goes on a trip that lasts about 20 minutes. You’ll want to sit on the right side of the train, and the middle three train cars have the best views. It’s a good idea to wear sunglasses, because old engines cause cinders which can blow around. A beautiful ride around the mountain side with rhododendron blossoms leads to a stop at an old fashioned town. Bad guys attempt to rob the train, but the good guys, including the Sheriff, the Marshall and the Deputy save the day. Gun shots, horses and dramatic falls from rooftops, not to mention exploding outhouses, make this a favorite. Then, the train continues to the Fort, where a shootout happens that draws laughs and gasps. Watch out for Indians boarding the train to scare you. Once you’re back in town, be sure to visit the Saloon, where Diamond Lil’ and her girls will entertain you with can-can dancing and quick wit. After you’ve cooled off at the Saloon, a trip to the County Fair is in order. The highlight here is a Ferris Wheel. This Ferris Wheel is not for the faint of heart. The rumor is that it’s the second fastest Ferris Wheel on the East Coast. I can’t promise that it’s true, but it is very fast and thrilling. We love it. Hold on to your hats! Photo by Aaron Bridgman
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110 Photo by Aaron Bridgman Photo provided by Tweetsie Railroad
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111 Photo by Aaron Bridgman
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112 After riding a lot of rides that make us dizzy, we ride the chair lift to the Top of the Mountain. The slow ride up the hillside is a perfect opportunity to connect with each other and catch our breaths, as well as take in the scenery. If you have a stroller, you’ll have to leave it at the bottom of the chair lift, or you can ride the bus, which leaves from the back of the Saloon every few minutes. At the top are several must-visit spots. The Mouse Mine features a train ride on a miniature train into a cave where psychedelic, animatronic mice mine cheese while singing a wildly infectious tune. There are several opportunities for entertainment at the Top of the Mountain, including a clogging show, a magic show and performances by Hopper and Porter, mascots for the Railroad. There is also a gem mining station, which is a great way to cool off on hot days. You can purchase buckets to be sure that you’ll find gemstones and they are available in two sizes. At the highest point in the park, you’ll find a petting zoo. Llamas, emus, deer and goats eat right out of our hands, and it’s hard to get my boys to leave. I schedule 30 minutes here, but it closes before the rest of the park, so don’t save it until the end of your day. Photo provided by Tweetsie Railroad
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114 The centerpiece of the park is Engine Number 12. It is the only surviving engine from the Eastern Tennessee Western North Carolina Railroad, which provided transportation to the remote areas in our mountains that most rails couldn’t reach, traveling between Johnson City Tennessee and Boone regularly. This railroad was integral to the development of the region, and eased the seclusion caused by geography. It ran from 1882 until 1950. It was affectionately called ”Tweetsie” because of the ”tweet tweet” sound it’s whistle made. It’s a sound familiar to almost everyone in our region. On a clear day, you can hear it for miles, and it remains unchanged. In 1955, Gene Autry, cowboy singer and actor, purchased the locomotive. After realizing shipping it to LA would be too costly, he sold his option to Grover Robbins for $1. People lined the highways to watch the engine as it made it’s way up the mountain, stopping in Hickory to be refurbished. By 1957, Tweetsie Railroad was established as North Carolina’s first theme park, and one of the oldest in the nation. In 1959, WBTV rented the park for a birthday party for entertainer Fred Kirby. This was the beginning of a long working relationship, as Fred Kirby served as Marshall for 30 years and brought much fame and acclaim to the park. In 1992, Tweetsie Railroad was listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, which provides both protection and historical recognition. The park is still owned and operated by the Robbins family, and they continue to preserve history while breaking new ground. The Ghost Train, a spooky extravaganza running nights in October, has grown to be one of the largest evens of its kind in the Southeast. The park is also known for their spectacular fireworks display on Independence Day. The park stays open until 9 and fireworks begin at 9:30.
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115 Tweetsie Railroad Summer Schedule: May 28 through August 26, 2018: Open 7 days a week, from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Open until 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4 for the Fireworks Extravaganza, and during Cool Summer Nights. At right, my boys Max and River pose with their favorite cowboys. Below is an art project we worked on together that shows the characters and the Ferris Wheel. I hope that you and yours will find some time to visit Tweetsie Railroad this summer. Write me to tell me about your trip! Editor@foothillsdigest.com Buy Tickets Here! Events Schedule Here!
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116 © Michelle T. Bernard Boggs Farm Center, Fallston, NC
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117 Photos and Story by Michelle T. Brenard
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118 In the not so distance past, by the beginning of October, fields of cotton would be morphing into puffy white bolls in fields across Cleveland and the surrounding counties. Once the cotton was harvested, it would be transported to one of the area cotton engines or “gins” to be cleaned and pressed into bales. Once a major part of the economy in the area, there is no longer any cotton grown in Cleveland County and all of the cotton gins in the area, including the one at Boggs Farm Center in Fallston, North Carolina are silent. The slightly rundown buildings that make up Boggs fit in with the general appearance of the intersection of Stagecoach Trail (U.S. Highway 182) and Fallston Road (U.S. Highway 18). In its time this junction was a bustling convergence of area farmers and the general community. Today it’s likely that most traffic passes through without a second thought as to what commerce might have once been conducted there. Most of the original businesses, like the two general stores, Stamey’s and Dixon’s are long gone. There’s still traffic in and out of the small storefront where livestock feed, agricultural chemicals and seed is still sold at Boggs Farm Center. The rural communities and agrarian traditions of Cleveland County and the surrounding area is slowly falling into ruin and decay. With this decline, the relationships, sense of pride and lifestyles that were once associated with agriculture are being lost in favor of the convenience of big box stores. Farm machinery hangs out under the overhang in front of the building that houses the cotton gins at Boggs. Some of the windows are broke and bits of tin are missing from the roof. Without knowing what formerly went on in this building, a passerby may think it was either an abandoned building or storage shed. Massive steel machinery with exposed gears and belts, duct work and control boxes fill the inside of building. Dim light shining through the windows illuminate bits of cotton hang from beams, exhaust pipes and electrical wires like garland compete with spider webs in the building. Cotton is an extremely labor-intensive crop to produce. Until mechanized pickers became mainstream, cotton was hand-picked which was why, after slavery was abolished, those farmers with larger acreage had tenant farmers – most of them were African Americans but not all of them. These families lived on the land owned by the farmer and raised cotton and other crops which they sold back to the farmer as rent. In addition to the larger farmers who kept tenant farmers, small family-run farms also planted fields of cotton which was picked by members of the household. Frequently, area children would get time off from Boggs Farm Center Fallston, NC Story and Photos by Michelle T. Brenard
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119 school during harvest time to pick cotton. Many a Cleveland County child would pick cotton for a farmer to earn money to go to the local fair which operates around the same time cotton was being harvested. Once the cotton was picked, they’d haul it to Boggs or one of the other gins in the area and sell it. The cotton would be ginned, baled and then sent on to one of the local textile mills in the area to be spun into cloth. “A family could pick a bale of cotton in a day,” Boggs, Jr. said. “We used to think yields of a bale an acre was good and it was back then but today you’ve got to be well above a bale an acre to make any money at it. We didn’t go up in production and every other place starting out new did.” The continuing advances in both picking and ginning machinery was another contributing factor to the decline of cotton farming in Cleveland county. The equipment that’s used now costs hundreds of thousands of dollars to purchase and install. Given the yields of cotton in this area there’s no way a farmer would ever get his money back by purchasing and installing more efficient harvesting or ginning equipment. “Production went down in the 1950s due © Michelle T. Bernard
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to the boll weevil but we were still King Cotton here in Cleveland County,” Boggs, Jr. said. “We were growing more in this county than any other county in the state and did so up until about 1958 or 1959 when the mechanical pickers came in.” After the harvest when the cotton would be brought into the gin, which would only run two to three months out of the year, Boggs would hire five workers to run the gin. In the later years he said that not only did it got harder to find people qualified or even willing to operate the gin but the cost of workers’ compensation insurance also became prohibitively expensive. In the early 1970s, cotton prices took a dip in price but came back up again in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Boggs, Jr. said. In 2000, it went down so low that farmers in the area couldn’t afford to grow it. In addition, the mechanical pickers increased in price, size and speed but most farmers in the Cleveland County area couldn’t afford to buy one of these more advanced model pickers plus they were often too large to run on their smaller acreage fields. “Down east they can make two, two and a half bales an acre now,” Boggs, Jr. said. “Their subsoil is so much better than ours. That’s kind of how it’s wound up – where ever it can be grown the cheapest.” Now the four giant cotton gins along with the bale pressers are anachronisms in this time of extreme industrialization. The gins at Boggs used to turn out five bales an hour and at that time that was sufficient but today’s gins produce 50 to 60 bales an hour. © Michelle T. Bernard
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High-quality, hand-made products available at Bottega in downtown hickory shellessentials@gmail.com 828-962-3077 “That’s what put us out, we just got plumb obsolete,” he said. “There just wasn’t enough cotton being grown in in the area to justify buying back in it.” The gins have the appearance of just having been turned off. Scraps of cotton fiber with seeds and bits of branches still cling to the wire teeth that combs out the seeds. Max Boggs, Jr. said that they would still run if he switched them on but there’s nothing for them to do now. He’d like to see the machinery all gone so that the building could be utilized for some other purpose. Small farmers in the still rural communities of North Carolina continually face the trials of globalization and competing technology. Weather has always been a factor in farming and in this age of climate change, the challenges have become greater. The continuing trends towards m e c h a n i z a t i o n , a g r i b u s i n e s s conglomerates and overbearing federal regulations are still making it difficult for small farm centers like Boggs to stay in business. Today Boggs Farm Center already feeling the pressures of the swing away from hammered feed to pelletized feed, which they can’t manufacture without investing in expensive machinery. “It’s a business but nothing great,” Max Boggs, Jr. said. At least it doesn’t take many hands to operate. As the county becomes more populated with less farming it’ll continue to keep dwindling down,” he said. “It might be a slower process but it’ll probably change like the cotton did. It’ll go to where it can be grown the cheapest.”
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122 March 16-August 26 The threat of a catastrophic impact from an asteroid or comet is a staple of popular culture. If there was a dinosaur killer in Earth’s past, is there a human killer in our future? What are the chances and how do we assess the risks? For that matter, what are asteroids, comets, and meteorites, and where do they come from? While Asteroids and comets are popular subjects for movies like Armageddon and Deep Impact, they are also playing their own starring roles in NASA research. In 2001, NASA’s NEAR Shoemaker spacecraft dramatically landed on the asteroid Eros. In 2005, NASA’s Deep Impact’s probe collided with Tempel 1, exploring beneath the comet’s surface. In 2007, NASA launched the Dawn spacecraft to the Main Asteroid Belt. With all this interest, asteroids and comets are compelling subjects for an exhibition. The Space Science Institute’s National Center for Interactive Learning, with funding from the National Science Foundation and NASA, has developed a national traveling exhibition program called Great Balls of Fire: Comets, Asteroids, and Meteors. The project includes two exhibits (3,500 sq. ft. and 1500 sq. ft.), an education program for museum educators and docents, an outreach program to engage amateur astronomers, a public website (www.killerasteroids.org), and this exhibit website.
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124 We are several months into another successful Crawdads season. Fans attending ‘Dads games at LP Frans Stadium have witnessed walkoff wins, fireworks, concerts, and the first-ever name change in the organization’s history, as the team played at the Crawmoms for Mother’s Day weekend. While the first few months have passed, the Crawdads still have a full summer of entertainment in store. Coming up in the second half, we still have six more Friday Fireworks shows, plus our biggest show of the year on July 3rd, as the Crawdads celebrate Independence Day. The ‘Dads are on the road this year for the 4th of July so we will be starting the festivities a day early. The night will include a JROTC, God Bless America, and special on-field contests. The players will be wearing their patriotic jerseys, featuring George Washington crossing the Delaware River, during the game. They will also wear the jerseys on Labor Day when they are auctioned off with the proceeds going to Disabled American Veterans. In the second half, the ZOOperstars! are returning to the Frans for their second appearance of the season. The popular inflatable mascot group will make their way back to town on Saturday, August 25th. The group will be interacting with fans and players as well as participating in on-field promotions throughout the game. In April, the Crawdads welcomed Finding Favour to the stadium for the first post-game Christian Concert of the season. On Saturday, July 21st, the Sidewalk Prophets will be performing the season’s final Christian Concert. The Sidewalk Prophets have released three studio albums, with their biggest song, ”You Love Me Anyway,” reaching number 1 on the Billboard Christian Single charts. The Crawdads first few months included nights such as Tribute to Pajamas, Dunder Mifflin Night, and a Grease 40th Anniversary Night. The promotional schedule for the second half is packed with even more exciting theme nights. The debate about aliens, bigfoot, and unicorns will be coming to the ballpark on Monday, July 2nd, with our first ever Fact or Fiction Night. Also new to the promotional lineup this season will be the Usher Hunger Games on Thursday, July 19th. Ushers will be competing in on-field contests during the game to be named winner of the Games and to bring a victory to their section. For years the Crawdads have provided fans with opportunities to bring their dogs out to the stadium for Bark in the Park or to participate in a Tuesday Dog Show. This season the Crawdads want to celebrate another important member of the family: cats. On Wednesday, August 8th the ‘Dads will be hosting Purr in the Park. Cats will be center of attention throughout the night with costumes, themed on-fields, and special video board content. On Friday, August 10th, the ‘Dads will be bringing back Superhero Night, one of the more popular theme nights on the schedule every year. Fans will have the opportunity to take pictures with some of their favorite heroes as Heroic Adventures Superheroes will be in attendance. The night will be capped off with a firework show. Also coming to the Frans this season will be Star Wars Night on August 24th. The night will be full of tributes to the movie franchise, including music, on-fields and costumes. The Crawdads season may only run through Labor Day weekend, but that doesn’t mean we can’t pay tribute to some of our favorite holidays. Christmas in July will be returning this year on Friday, July 20th. The night will be filled with Christmas music, decorations, and will almost certainly be your only chance to see snow in Hickory this summer. We will also be hosting our annual Halloween celebration on Friday, July 13th. Lake Hickory Haunts will be bringing along their cast of creepy characters and fans are encouraged to break out their Halloween costumes early for a free ticket to the game. The season will wrap up on Monday, September 3rd for a Labor Day matinée. The ‘Dads will be saying thank you to fans for another wonderful season with fan appreciation day. There will also be an MiLB mystery giveaway. Major and minor league teams from across the country have donated mystery items such as bobbleheads, shirts, and hats for the giveaway. This summer is sure to have more exciting moments and we look forward to seeing you at the Frans! Crawdads Baseball
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125 Fun in the Sun By Ryan Gant The ice has melted, you’ve stayed true to your New Years resolutions; the heat of summer is here and it’s time to maintain that hard earned beach body. Summer is the PERFECT time of year, simply because there are so many activities folks can choose from. Whether it be participating in a local 5k, swimming, hiking, even taking a pair of dumbbells outside, the options are endless. However, If you have resided in the area for long, you know as well as I do that there can be some scorching heat waves; sometimes for weeks on end. Here are some tips for staying COOL and SAFE for your summer workouts. 1) BE HYDRATED, STAY HYDRATED Before partaking in any strenuous exercise in the heat, it is extremely important to be hydrated. Drink 1-2 cups of water before even going outside. Take water with you to sip on every 15 minuets, even when you are not thirsty! That is important. Drink 1-2 cups after your activity. If you are not hydrated properly you could run the risk of dehydration, and possible heat stroke. If you notice you are becoming “light headed,” nauseous, or dizzy, stop exercise to hydrate, and get to a cooler place. Be smart, and make sure you hydrate before going outside for any length of time. 2) WEAR LOOSE LIGHT COLORED CLOTHING Lighter colored clothes will reflect sunlight away from your body, helping keep your core body temperature lower. Wearing loose material will aid in the evaporation of sweat. There are also “dri-fit” clothing options, designed to keep you cool. If you decide to go shirtless, just make sure you follow the next tip! 3) SUNSCREEN With sun beaming down on us throughout the summer, sunscreen is an absolute must. Even when it is cloudy, the ultraviolet rays can break through and burn you skin. Protect your skin. The last thing anyone would want this summer is skin cancer! Have fun. That’s the bottom line. Choose workouts that you will enjoy. That is what summer is all about, having fun in the sun. Stay hydrated. Be prepared for the heat, and wear sunscreen. EXAMPLE WORKOUT “AROO” .25 mile run/walk 25 push ups .25 mile run/walk 25 squats .25 mile run/walk25 crunches .25 mile run/walk 25 burpees 1-5 Rounds (Modify when needed!). For example, do modified push ups if you can’t do a full push up. Start with a lower rep range if you have not exercised in a long time, and vice/versa. Know and listen to your body. That is key.
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126 w hen i t C omes to s troke p revention , k nowled G e is p ower Every 40 seconds, someone in America has a stroke. While they are the fifth leading cause of death in the United States, strokes are both preventable and treatable. May is American Stroke Month, a time to raise awareness about stroke prevention and treatment. To do that, we must know the risk factors and warning signs. Stroke Risk Factors Poor diet and lack of exercise can increase your chance of stroke. Furthermore, there are a number of pre- existing conditions that put you at higher risk: • High Blood Pressure • Smoking • Diabetes • Obesity • High Cholesterol • Heart Disease • Sickle Cell Disease Stroke Warning Signs To identify someone who might be having a stroke and get help, the American Stroke Association recommends learning the F.A.S.T. warning signs: • Face Drooping • Arm Weakness • Speech Difficulty • Time to Call 911 If you think you are having a stroke, call 911 right away. “Don’t wait. To receive the medications you need, you have to be here within three hours of symptom onset,” says Ashlee Pinion-Raby, CVMC stroke program coordinator. First responders are trained to identify stroke victims and begin treatment in the field. Once at the hospital, patients are assessed by a local emergency room physician and given a CT scan. Then, using a stroke robot referred to as “Webster,” a stroke-specific neurologist from Wake Forest Baptist Health performs a second assessment. The two physicians work together to determine whether the patient qualifies for tPA, a quick-acting, clot- dissolving drug that helps restore blood flow to the brain. “You have two physicians collaborating to get you the care you need right when you need it,” Pinion-Raby says. The lack of lag time between a patient’s arrival and treatment is one of the reasons CVMC administers more tPA than any other WFBH hospital in the region. According to Pinion-Raby, once the ER physician orders the drug, the treatment is fast-tracked through a well-rehearsed process. Within 10 minutes, the pharmacy mixes the medication. A nurse then delivers the tPA to the patient’s room, where another nurse is prepped and waiting to administer it. Of course, preventing strokes is the ultimate goal. Increasing your physical activity, improving your diet, and quitting smoking all help reduce the likelihood of a stroke. If you have any of the pre-existing conditions that put you at a higher risk of stroke, be sure you are managing those with lifestyle, diet, and prescribed medication. For more information on stroke prevention and treatment, please visit www.strokeassociation.org.
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128 E ve r y y e a r T h e H i c ko r y D a i l y Re c o r d re l e a s e s the C atawba County restaurant sanitation s c ores. I t ’ s a g o o d i n fo r m at i o n , b e c a u s e n o o n e w a n t s t o e at i n a d i r t y re s t a u ra n t . Y o u w a n t t o b e s a f e when it c omes to your GI tract. Really it is a go o d thinking to play it safe in lots of situations. B ike helmets. Seat b elts. Safety rails at Niagara Falls. “ B e s t b e fo re ” d at e s o n m i l k c a r t o n s . S a f e t y i s a g o o d t h i n g . E xe rc i s i n g h e a l t hy c a ut i o n i s a g o o d t h i n g . E xc e p t … e xc e p t w h e n p l ay i n g i t s a f e a n d b eing to o cautious is the excus e for not b eliev ing in yours elf. Or when b eing safe is the excus e for b e i n g c o m p l a c e n t a n d s k i r t i n g r e s p o n s i b i l i t y. Safety and healthy caution are go o d, exc ept when p l ay i n g i t s a f e a n d b e i n g c a ut i o u s b e c o m e s yo u r guide to faith instead of Jesus. S o l e t ’ s n o t p l ay i t s a f e . Le t ’ s b e b o l d . Le t ’ s d i g de ep. Let’s go there. Let’s just go ahead and jump r i g h t i n ; “ w h at i s G o d d o i n g i n y o u r l i f e t h e s e days?” Mayb e that question is a little to o safe. Let’s ask the question another way—p erhaps even more to the p oint; “do es Jesus make a notable differenc e in our lives?” T h at ’ s n o t a s a f e qu e s t i o n , b e c a u s e i t b e g s fo r a n s w e r. W e p ro b ab l y a re n’ t e ve n c o m fo r t ab l e w i t h t h e qu e s t i o n . W e m ay g e t d e f e n s i ve — h o w dare you ask that question! It isn’t that we doubt Go d’s pres enc e in our lives, it is just that we aren’t a c c u s t o m e d t o h av i n g t o a c c o u n t fo r i t i n s u c h a s t ra i g h t fo r w a r d m a n n e r. S o w e c l a m u p , s h i f t a litt l e i n o u r s e at — avo i d m a k i n g e ye c o n t a c t w i t h anyone…and let that question hang. Be caus e yes of c ours e, Christ makes a differenc e in our lives. Yes, surely Go d is doing many things in us, and through us, and around us. Right? Playing it safe might b e s oftening Jesus’s resp ons es to the would-b e followers as he walks on the road to Jerusalem. Or playing it safe is that pat on the back and reminder to welc ome Jesus and b e ready when he c omes to our town. We don’t ne e d a pat on the back telling us that we are go o d Christians. R at h e r d e e p d o w n w e w a n t t h e c o u r a g e w e s o m e t i m e s l a c k , t h e c o u ra g e t o r i s e t o c h a l l e n g e of b eing Christ’s dis ciple. S o h o w d o w e re a d L u ke ’ s s t o r y o f a S a m a r i t a n v illage who refus es to welc ome him; how do you read Luke’s story of s e emingly faithful p e ople who want to follow him but cleave to home and family; how do we read that without playing it safe? How do ask for c ourage even while we are still clinging to excus es? You k n o w, l o o k i n g at t h e s e t w o s t o r i e s o f L u ke — and in my NRSV B ible they are partitione d out into a s e ctions, “A Samaritan Village Refus es to Re c eive Jesus” and “ Would Be Followers of Jesus”—at first I didn’t think they went together. But now, I think there is an answer for us ab out playing it cautious and safe. I think Luke is telling us s omething ab out dis cipleship that will matter in our lives. T h e s t o r y s t a r t s o ut w i t h J e s u s s e t t i n g h i s f a c e t o J e r u s a l e m . O r a s w e m i g h t t h i n k o f i t , h e s e t his mind and his fe et to going and ‘there weren’t n o t u r n i n g b a c k .’ O n e o f o u r d a u g h t e r ’ s f avo r i t e stories, has the two main characters working out a deal for a tea s et. Thelma makes sure that when she agre es to s ell her tea s et to Franc es, that Franc es u n d e r s t a n d s t h at t h e d e a l i s f i n a l ; t h at t h e re a re no . This is Jesus s etting his fac e to Jerusalem, no backsies. Now, I’m not 100% sure if Jesus knew everything that would happ en as he s et his fac e to Jerusalem, b ut I d o t h i n k h e k n e w t h at i t w a s n’ t g o i n g t o b e s a f e . H e k n e w d e e p d o w n w h e n h e s e t o ut t o c o n f ro n t t h e p o w e r s o f t h e re l i g i o u s d ay a n d t o t h re at e n t h e i m p e r i a l i s m o f Ro m e ; t o s h a ke t h e very foundations of sin in the world, he knew that it would re quire him to b e anything but cautious. When he s et his fac e to Jerusalem he knew it would b e hard and awful and quite p ossibly deadly. For reas ons we are not given the Samaritan village do es not ac c ept him when he s ends mess engers to make things ready. It c ould b e that they re c ognize he isn’t there to do for them—Jesus isn’t there to h e a l , o r t e a c h o r p re a c h . L u ke t e l l s u s , t h e y d i d n o t a c c e p t h i m b e c a u s e h i s f a c e i s s e t t o w a r d Jerusalem. Do you supp os e the Samaritan’s were j u s t p l ay i n g i t s a f e ? D o yo u t h i n k t h at t h e y j u s t t h o u g h t , “ w e l l h e ’ s a J e w i s h rab b i h e a d e d t o t h e wrong city. Sinc e he’s not here for us, let’s just not mess with this, let’s play it safe and have nothing to do with him.” E n t e r J a m e s a n d J o h n ; i t i s n o w o n d e r t h at M at t h e w s n a m e s t h e m ‘ s o n s o f t h u n d e r.’ T h e s e S a m a r i t a n s d o n’ t w o r s h i p t h e w a y t h e y o u g h t t o a n d m o r e o v e r h o w d a r e t h e y d e n y J e s u s h o s p i t a l i t y ! Le t ’ s c a l l d o w n f i re f ro m h e ave n t o c onsume them! If we lo ok at it this way—playing it safe is resp onding v iolently. Violenc e eliminates t h e i s s u e o r p e r s o n o r s t r u g g l e . I t e xe r c i s e s dominanc e and authority over another. But love, l o ve o p e n s yo u u p . Lo v i n g o t h e r s i s a l o t m o re v u l n e rab l e ; i t i s r i s k i e r, i t i s n o t s a f e t o re s p o n d in love. S o i n s t e a d o f g o i n g b a c k t o t h e ‘ S o d o m a n d G o m o r ra h p u n i s h m e n t s ’ fo r d e n i e d h o s p i t a l i t y, Jesus tells them, no, no that isn’t what we are going t o d o . A n d w i t h J e s u s t h e y ke e p g o i n g fo r w a r d . Jesus isn’t here to reign down fire on any group or empire or government. He’s here to show us the w ay t o G o d . H e ’ s s e t h i s f a c e t o w a r d J e r u s a l e m b e caus e that’s where it will all go down. J e s u s i s h e re t o m a ke s u re a s m a n y p e o p l e a s p o s s i b l e s e e t h e t r ut h — t h at m e d i o c re l i v i n g i s n’ t all there is. The truth we s e e in Jesus, is that he is the very b est way to really understand the heart of Go d. But Jesus is als o showing us that the way i s n’ t a l l f l o w e r s a n d ro s e s ; i t i s n’ t s t ay i n g i n t h e NO BACKSIES by Heather Woods Davis
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129 5-star s hotel. He is als o showing us that the way is always mov ing forward. That the way is always one of love and not one of v iolenc e. Jesus shows u s t h at w e mu s t s e t o u r f a c e s o n h i m a n d n o t b e d e t e r re d e ve n w h e n e ve r y t h i n g t h re at e n s t o f a l l apart. This isn’t ab out the Samaritans. Just a few vers es later Jesus is telling us ab out the radical hospitality of a very go o d Samaritan. One who c ould play it s a f e a n d ke e p o n g o i n g , b ut i n s t e a d a c t s f ro m a plac e of love and takes in a wounde d brother. No, t h i s i s n’ t ab o ut f i re f ro m h e ave n a n d e t h n i c a l l y drawn b oundaries; this isn’t ab out foxes and birds or burials—it’s ab out learning to not playing it safe. It is ab out s etting your fac e forward on Christ and not turning back. Luke do esn’t tell us whether the man who wants to follow Jesus actually do es; but most of us doubt him, right? He s ounds to o much like the rich man w h o w a n t s t o h ave e t e r n a l l i f e b ut c a n’ t s e l l a l l his p oss essions. Which makes us want to rewrite the story do esn’t it? It is to o much like that s e e d from the s ower—the one that lands on ro cky s oil and sprouts up quickly, but then withers and dies… C a n’ t w e w r i t e a l i t t l e m o re L u ke , a n d g i ve h i m the c ourage he ne e ds to follow Jesus wherever he go es? A fourte en-year-old b oy from Gre ensb oro c ollaps e d during fo otball practic e and die d a c ouple of years a g o . H e w a s a n o n l y c h i l d , t h e ve r y h e a r t o f h i s paren t s . Ho w d o yo u bu r y t h at a nd fol l o w J e s us wherever he go es? I don’t know. W h e n J e s u s s ays , “ Fo l l o w m e ,” a n d t h e re s p o n s e i s , “ Lo r d , l e t m e g o a n d f i r s t b u r y my f at h e r,” i t s e ems reas onable enough. We take s eriously the c o m m a n d m e n t t o h o n o r o u r m o t h e r a n d f at h e r ; we take s eriously the c ommitment to our families. What is wrong with that? But Jesus says that isn’t w h at t h i s i s ab o ut . T h e re ’ s a n u r g e n c y J e s u s i s pushing that says, stop playing it safe—stop b eing ab out death—b e ab out life. With me, death is left b ehind. I am ab out life. S o h o w d o yo u b u r y t h at a n d fo l l o w t h e Lo r d o f life? I don’t know. I have not had to live through s o m e t h i n g h o r r i f i c l i ke t h e d e at h o f a c h i l d ; b ut I k n o w w h at i t i s t o b u r y a p a re n t . I k n o w others who have live d through death to o; death of children, parents, sp ous es and love d ones. And I s e e them liv ing. I s e e them s et their fac e on Jesus and ke ep on liv ing. Let’s b e ab out life. “ N o o n e w h o p ut s a h a n d o n t h e p l o w a n d l o o k s back is fit for the kingdom.” Who’s he even talking to? You? Me? I’ve never actually plowe d a field. B ut I re a d t h at yo u mu s t s t ay fo c u s e d fo r w a r d , b e c a u s e i f yo u t u r n a ro u n d t h e p l o w i s g o i n g t o g e t o ff c o u r s e a n d y o u ’ l l b ut c h e r t h o s e t e n d e r watermelon v ines on the next row over. So when the urgency of dis cipleship c omes our way, don’t lo ok back as if you’ve got to get this or that; don’t’ make excus e that would have you claim you aren’t g o o d e n o u g h o r y o u a re n’ t re a d y — i n s t e a d ke e p your hand on the plow and fo cus e d forward where Jesus is going. Over 2000 p e ople came for a s erv ic e to honor that young man in Gre ensb oro. They surrounde d the f a m i l y a n d s h a re d t h e i r t e a r s a n d g r i e f. B ut h i s parents insiste d they als o c elebrate his short life and give thanks for who he was. Be ab out life. Following Christ isn’t safe. Never has b e en. Ask a nyo n e w h o h a s g o t t e n t o o c l o s e t o t h e b u r n i n g bush. Ask your neighb ors and your friends—s ome of them know de ep in their b ones. None of this, none of what we do is really ab out playing it safe. Rememb er the great lion Aslan from the Chronicles of Narnia, “Aslan is a lion- the Lion, the great Lion.” ”O oh” said Susan. ”I’d thought he was a man. Is he-quite safe? I shall fe el rather nervous ab out me eting a lion”... ”Safe?” said Mr. Beaver ... ” Who said anything ab out safe? ’Cours e he isn’t safe. But he’s go o d. He’s the King, [I tell you].” Le t ’ s c h a n g e t h e s t o r y. “ I w i l l fo l l o w yo u w h e re yo u g o .” Le t ’ s s e t o u r f a c e s t o t h e n i t t y a n d t h e gritty. Let’s s et our fac es toward changing e ducation and how we take care of our veterans. Let’s s et our fac es toward smarter and safe gun c ontrol. Let’s s et our fac es toward b etter health care and preventive measures that teach our children ab out nutrition. Let’s s et our fac es to b eing b etter p e ople not b etter c onsumers. L e t ’ s s e t o u r f a c e s t o a l o v e t h a t h a s l e s s re quirements and more participants. Do es Jesus make a notable differenc e in our lives? D o n’ t p l ay i t s a f e . Y o u ’ ve p ro b ab l y h e a r d t h i s b efore, but author Annie D illard says we are fo ols for wearing nic e clothes and pretty hats to church. The ushers ought to hand out life pres ervers and s i g n a l f l a re s b e c a u s e G o d m a y d ra w u s o ut t o where we can never return. Go d may draw us out to where we can never return. How ab out we s et our fac es to that?!? And y’all, no backsies.
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130 In working primarily with women in a residential addiction treatment setting, I often hear of the unique challenges and barriers women face in seeking support when they need it. It is important to acknowledge and address these barriers to provide women support so that they are able to access the services they need. Taking the first step to enter treatment for anyone can be challenging, and is often made after other options have been exhausted. Often times outpatient treatment, 12 Step facilitation (such as AA and NA), detoxification programs, and attempts at controlled use have been made prior to making the decision to complete a longer ter m program. Women face unique barriers in accessing and following through with addiction treatment. Some of these barriers include childcare, family responsibilities, stigma, and shame. Women experience a greater societal cost for seeking help, and experience different consequences than men when reaching out for support. If we can begin to address these barriers, treatment can become more accessible and manageable for women, allowing them to take the time they need to heal and enter recovery. Gender differences are an important consideration when assessing needs and in creating individualized treatment for women. What works for men in treatment does not always work the same way for women. When considering the need for residential addiction treatment, women often speak of the challenges related to their children. Women regularly assume the majority of responsibilities related to child-rearing, therefore, leaving their homes for an extended amount of time could present a challenge for the family. Women with young children are often concer ned about the children’s lack of understanding of the reason for their mother’s absence. Providing age-appropriate education to children about addiction often reduces confusion and improves understanding about what is going on with their parent. Women often struggle with shame and a significant societal stigma associated with drug and alcohol use. Women are often burdened with labels such as “bad mother” and “junkie”. These labels are imposed by societal pressures and sometimes self- reflection. These beliefs perpetuate shame, isolation, and addiction. Education about the neurobiology of addiction, specifically taking into consideration the needs of women, is an important part of reducing the stigma. Hor mones, differences in response to drugs and alcohol, and progression through the stages of addiction are important considerations to be addressed in treatment for women. Addressing co-occurring chronic pain or psychological issues simultaneously with addiction is also conducive to success in recovery. While there are a number of hurdles for women to cross when seeking addiction treatment, a trauma-infor med and gender specific approach can help to reduce the stigma and promote healing and recovery. Taking the time to manage these differences and create a safe place for women to recover is key to empower ment and success. BREAKING D OW N BA RRIERS: ENGAG ING WOMEN IN ADDIC TION TREATMENT Kelsey Crowe, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS Amaro, H., & Hardy-Fanta, C. (1995). Gender relations in addiction and recovery. Jour nal of Psychoactive Drugs, 27, 325-337. Carten, A.F. (1996). Mothers in recovery: Rebuilding families in the after math of addiction. Social Work, 41, 214-223. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. (1994). Practical approaches in the treatment of women who abuse alcohol and other drugs. Rockville, MD: Department of Health and Human Services. Fedele, N., & Harrington, E. (1990). Women’s groups: How connections heal. (Work In Progress No. 47). Wellesley, MA: Stone Center.
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131 MYSTERY HILL MYSTERY HILL North Carolina’s Natural Gravitational Anomaly mysteryhill-nc.com Blowing Rock, NC Guided Tours Every 15 Min Old Time Photos Unique Shops Open Year Round 50,000 Arrowheads Fun and Educational For All Ages
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132 DEAR DAVID, David Zealy-Wright is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, and a Clinical Supervisor Intern. He graduated from Catawba Valley Community College in 2005 earning an Associate in Arts, Lenoir-Rhyne University in 2008 earning a BA in Psychology, and in 2010 an MA in Agency Counseling. His specialty areas include addiction, depression, anxiety, life changes, men’s issues, relationships, and LGBTQIA issues. To ask David a question, email AskDavid@foothillsdigest.com! Dear David, I know you are an expert in addiction so I wanted to ask, what do you think a parent should do when their child is caught using drugs? Is this common in high school? I know about the opiate epidemic in this area and I want to do what I can to prevent my child from becoming a statistic. Scared Mom Dear SM, Let me first say, your experience is a very common one for parents of teens today. I teach at several high schools in the area and frequently have discussions with students about the prevalence of drugs with their age groups. Marijuana is far less stigmatized by these groups and there is a significant lack of information about other mood and mind altering substances and their dangers. The most powerful thing a parent can do is to educate their child with accurate information about illicit drug use and not shy away from hard questions. It is important to act if you see unusual behavior and if your child is caught, allow them to experience the natural consequences. A night in jail, in the long run, is a much better alternative to potential years of use while a family enables. See NIDA for Teens at https://teens.drugabuse.gov/ for up to date, accurate, and research based information. Also remember, addiction is frequently a family disease and survives best when it’s not talked about openly and honestly. Sincerely, David Zealy-Wright LPC, LCAS Dear David, My best friend is mad at me because I am not spending enough time with him. I just had my second kid and I am exhausted, I try to make time for him but he doesn’t have kids and I feel like I can’t win when I try to explain my change in priorities. He makes me feel guilty for putting my kids first and I’m just not OK with that but I don’t know how to get through to him. Bad Bromance Dear BB, It sounds like your friend could use a lesson in empathy, you should never have to apologize for putting your kids first. Unfortunately, when you have children some friendships don’t make it through the transition. Being a parent requires being selfless and a great deal of time and energy. Anyone that doesn’t understand and even encourage that can always find another friend. You however, cannot find this time with your children again. Life is short and those that are truly your friends will not only understand but will applaud you for being a good dad and having your priorities in order. Sometimes friends come in to our lives for a reason and sometimes for a season. Being able to discern the two and model good boundaries will be one of the best lesson you will teach your precious children. All the best, David Zealy-Wright LPC, LCAS
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133 EVENTFULLY YOURS, Today it seems that there are many details and ideas for additional “things to do” during weddings and receptions. What are your ideas to add a special touch to the event that have a lot of “BANG”? You are definitely on trend if you are considering something new and different to try at our upcoming wedding and reception. Over the past few years brides and grooms have loved bringing a note of the unexpected to their special day. Sparklers at the end of the evening during the bride and groom sendoff have become a fun trend and they finish the night with a whimsical touch. Not to mention that they create a beautiful photo opportunity for guests and the wedding photographer. When using sparklers please be aware that you should take precautions to make sure that the sparklers are at least 20” long and you must have buckets of sand or water available to dispose of them once they have completely burned out. You may also want to check with your venue to see if they have any restrictions on the use of sparklers. If you are getting married in an area that has more space, like an open field or farm, consider the option of hiring a professional fireworks company to set off a spectacular display for your guests. Generally it is a good idea to do this toward the end of the evening. Please do entice your guests with fun signage to let them know that there will be an amazing event just before the sendoff. This way you can expect people to stick around for the show. There are a number of professional companies within North Carolina that take care of the permitting and set up, which is a must when dealing with fireworks. Be sure that the company is bonded and insured and follows all safety requirements either in the city or county that you having the wedding/ reception. Confetti cannons and confetti balloons are another new trend that brings a fun touch to the couple’s special day. You will also want to check with your venue to see if this is an option. If you are having an outdoor reception consider being eco-friendly by using biodegradable confetti that disintegrates with rain. Use all metallic and white confetti for a chic look or go all out with a full color explosion! Eventfully yours, Tara B Tara H. Bland is owner and event specialist of Tara B’s Eventful Planning and It’s My Party Rentals. Tara has planned and directed weddings and events for the past 18 years in the Foothills of North Carolina.
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134 I Hear America Singing Walt Whitman, 1819 - 1892 I hear America singing, the varied carols I hear, Those of mechanics, each one singing his as it should be blithe and strong, The carpenter singing his as he measures his plank or beam, The mason singing his as he makes ready for work, or leaves off work, The boatman singing what belongs to him in his boat, the deckhand singing on the steamboat deck, The shoemaker singing as he sits on his bench, the hatter singing as he stands, The wood-cutter’s song, the ploughboy’s on his way in the morning, or at noon intermission or at sundown, The delicious singing of the mother, or of the young wife at work, or of the girl sewing or washing, Each singing what belongs to him or her and to none else, The day what belongs to the day—at night the party of young fellows, robust, friendly, Singing with open mouths their strong melodious songs.
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135 What makes a nation’s pillars high And its foundations strong? What makes it mighty to defy The foes that round it throng? It is not gold. Its kingdoms grand Go down in battle shock; Its shafts are laid on sinking sand, Not on abiding rock. Is it the sword? Ask the red dust Of empires passed away; The blood has turned their stones to rust, Their glory to decay. And is it pride? Ah, that bright crown Has seemed to nations sweet; But God has struck its luster down In ashes at his feet. Not gold but only men can make A people great and strong; Men who for truth and honor’s sake Stand fast and suffer long. Brave men who work while others sleep, Who dare while others fly... They build a nation’s pillars deep And lift them to the sky. A Nation’s Strength William Ralph Emerson
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136 MOUNTAIN MEMORIES WITH GRANNY ECKARD Granny Eckard shares stories and memories of growing up at the base of Baker’s Mountain while it was still quite isolated.
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137 Polio in Our Family In the summer of 1948 our family was introduced to polio. On May 17, my older sister, Kathryn, had just finished her last day of second grade. I was five years old and was looking forward to starting school in the fall. We were all thrilled about the coming summer vacation and all the fun things kids get into. Beginning that day, our lives would never be the same. Kathryn and I were down the driveway trying to pet a cute little brown dog that our aunt had picked up in South Carolina for her daughters. We, being children, had no idea what a rabid animal looked like or acted like. We just thought he needed a family because he looked skinny and scruffy. Instead of allowing us to pet him, he viciously attacked Kathryn and bit her. Of course, Dad recognized immediately that she was attacked by a rabid dog. By the time we arrived back to the house, the dog was gone; but Dad organized a group of neighborhood men to hunt him down and shoot him. Authorities were called and the dog’s head was sent off to Raleigh for testing. It was already obvious that the dog was rabid, so Kathryn was immediately taken to the doctor and then to the hospital to begin her rabies shots. Two months later, on July 14, Kathryn started having horrible headaches and leg pain. She could peddle her trike but could not walk without falling. Our parents knew well the symptoms of polio as did every parent who lived in Hickory and Catawba Valley since the dreaded epidemic of 1944 and the building of the polio hospital. The Chevy’s motor was being overhauled and was hanging by a chain hoist under a huge oak tree, so Dad walked three miles to borrow a car from his employer to take Kathryn to the doctor yet again, realizing all the time what the outcome would be. His employer was quick to lend it, even though his wife was not so sure. She was concerned about polio being introduced to HER family, HER children. Dad understood her hesitance, was thankful for the use of the car, and never held it against her (he tells us later). This family remained close to us all their lives. Kathryn was sent from Dr. Hambrick’s office directly to Grace Hospital in Morganton where testing and treatments began with a spinal tap, mega doses of antibiotics, the iron lung, and steaming hot Kenny packs. She recovered somewhat, in that she became able to breath on our own; but was not able to walk. Several weeks later she was dismissed from Grace Hospital to come home with plans to take her to Camp Sutton in Monroe for more therapy. She was at Camp Sutton until early spring of 1949 and was sent home with leg braces and crutches. While at home later that summer her legs began to draw because of a tightening of the tendons (her words) and she was admitted to the Orthopedic Hospital in Gastonia for surgery. This was very invasive surgery that left numerous horrible scars about six inches long on the inside and outside of her thighs, calves, knees, and in her groin. To heal, she was placed in a Bradford frame that had her bent backward for most of every 24-hour day.
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138 The March of Dimes “saved the farm” literally. All of Kathryn’s treatments and surgeries were covered in full by the March of Dimes – all $1,323. Of the 114 Catawba County polio patients treated that year, only four patients’ expenses were in excess of Kathryn’s. In the years that followed, when we brought home those dime folders from school, our parents made sure that we return them with every slot filled. During both of these hospital stays, Kathryn had school. It was not enough, however, to keep up with the rest of her class. Realizing that she would be a year behind her classmates and the problems she would have with braces and crutches, she was reluctant to return to Mountain. View School in the fall. Our Aunt Irene, who was in high school there, encouraged her to go. Before the tragedy she had walked several miles to the bus stop, but Dad knew that could not happen with Kathryn. So he petitioned the county to bring the bus to our front yard. For years, until Irene graduated, she helped Kathryn get on and off the bus. The bus drivers helped her too and eventually Kathryn learned how to accomplish it herself. I have read accounts of how polio survivors were taunted, called names, and made fun of. To my knowledge, though, Kathryn never experienced any of this. She was the lone student on crutches and braces, but her fellow students and teachers were kind to help her with anything she needed. There was one boy at Mountain. View who went to the cafeteria every day to pick up her lunch. Kathryn had always been a “picky” eater; so what she did not want to eat (and especially the milk) she gladly handed over. Catawba County was, and is, full of kind folks. I always felt that one of the reasons why kids did not make fun of Kathryn is that their parents drove home the message that their family was most blessed indeed. Everyone in this area remembered the epidemic of 1944 and all the hoopla. No one knew where and when polio would strike next. Nor did they know why. There were theories that the virus came from flies, or from drinking water tainted with human feces. Of course we had flies. We had a barn and cows and pigs, but we did not have flies in our home. Our drinking water came from a deep well that was at least 600 feet up hill from the privy. This was by design. I could say that our Dad was one smart cookie, but it could be that everyone knows #@!* runs downhill. During the summer of 1948 a pretty petite county health nurse, in her blue and white
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139 stripped uniform, visited our home and informed our Mom that Kathryn’s virus came from flies and tainted drinking water. Mom didn’t buy the water theory, but the flies had to go. So she bought a sprayer, a little hand pump thingy with a pint-sized container, and filled it with DDT, yes DDT, to spray the flies on our back porch ceiling. I recall the cool mist falling down on our faces and arms. (Our Mom died from breast cancer at the age of 44.) You are probably wondering why I mentioned the rabid dog. Kathryn’s theory of where she contacted the polio virus was from the hospital where she was treated for rabies. She recalls that there were kids in the waiting area who appeared to her to be really sick. There were, and still are, a lot of unknowns surrounding this horrible virus. During Hickory’s epidemics, there were doctors and nurses from all over the United States, and afar, who came here to share their knowledge and expertise and I am sure they did the best they could. But if the virus came from house flies and human feces, how did Jane Goodall’s chimps contact polio in Tanzania? Mon and Dad were always thankful that Kathryn’s life was spared. Many children did not survive and some survived the rest of their short lives in an iron lung. Kathryn was a very determined girl and woman. She was never bitter, never felt sorry for herself and never felt that there were things she could not do. She married young and had three children in three years while working full-time, driving the kids to school and church, sewing their clothes on a treadle sewing machine, and doing her own cooking and housekeeping. In 1993 she founded The Post-polio Support Group of the High Country to help provide her fellow survivors with information and ambulatory equipment. This group met for the next 20 years. Early on, polio survivors were told to use their muscles, “use it or lose it.” But in recent years, because of the fact that survivors are having major problems with muscle loss and extreme pain, post- polio doctors now believe that better advice would have been to “conserve it to preserve it.” Kathryn switched to a wheel chair about twenty years ago when she began to suffer from these problems. She and her husband (a disabled Korean War veteran) lived in Boone in their own home for years until he passed away. She now resides in a rehab facility in Boone and is looking forward to the next chapter of her life. Books on the subject – Of course, two fictions by Joyce Hostetter, Blue and Comfort; Polio, Pitchforks, and Perseverance published by CVCC’s Red Hawk Publishing; and the documentary, Miracle. To have a better understanding of the effects of polio, read Dr. Richard Bruno’s book, The Polio Paradox. Also visit the polio museum at the Harper House in Hickory (currently on temporary loan to the County History Museum in Newton
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140 Two small boys were fighting over a battered fire truck in a corner of the kitchen. “You boys share that and be quiet,” said the young mother at the sink washing breakfast dishes. The two older children had just left for school, a mile walk on a dirt road, carrying brown lunch bags the mother had packed after preparing breakfast for her husband. An hour ago he’d left in his clattering pickup for work at a furniture factory in Lenoir, eight miles away, a job he often said he was lucky to have in these Depression years, when so many men had no work. She too is thankful for the job, but fears it won’t last. Nine years ago when they married she’d been so optimistic, just a foolish, starry-eyed girl-- now twenty-seven years old, and already with four children to care for. The wheels of the red fire truck rumbled on the uneven linoleum floor. The smaller, towheaded boy reached for the toy and tried to pull it from his brother’s hands. “It’s my turn! Give it to me!” A dish clattered into the sink. “Stop it,” the mother cried, turning to face them. With a wet hand she pushed a lock of brown hair up from her forehead. Early sunlight through the window cast a broad shadow of her head and shoulders on the graying plaster wall behind her sons. With red angry faces the boys pulled at the truck. “For god’s sake give it to him, Mark.” “He just had it! It’s my turn now!” “No, he’s had it more than me.” “That’s a lie.” “Shut up. Both of you. Give him the truck, Mark. Don’t be a baby.” Mark stood up and threw the truck to the floor, his face flushed below pale blond hair. “You broke it!” his brother screamed. The mother threw an aluminum pot into the sink and slapped the wet dishcloth onto the countertop. “I can’t stand this anymore. I’m leaving and not coming back.” She jerked the faded yellow apron from her waist, threw it to the floor and flounced out of the kitchen, slamming the door behind her. The boys stood staring at the door, their blue eyes wide, their mouths agape. After a minute they ran from the kitchen, across the back porch and out the rusty screen door. At the bottom of the wooden steps they stopped and glanced frantically about. Mark saw his mother down near the small weathered barn, walking fast, the skirt of her faded bluish dress swishing in low sunlight, showing the shape of her legs. “Mama! Come back! Jay can have the truck!” The woman flung her right arm backward toward the boys, waving them away, kept walking and disappeared around the side of the barn. The boys ran down the path calling after her, the smaller one beginning to cry. “Jay and me won’t fight no more,” Mark called. “Won’t bother you.” They rounded the corner of the barn and stood looking about. Their mother was nowhere in sight. In front of them, across the barbwire fence, scraggly pasture sloped down to a thicket of blackberry Leaving By Kermit Turner
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141 briars and alder bushes along a small stream. Beyond the pasture, brown autumn fields stretched along a hillside to a wall of dark pine woods. With a thumb in his mouth the smaller boy sniffled. Mark reached out and put a hand on his brother’s shoulder. “Mama will come back.” But neither his voice nor his face conveyed assurance. “Where’d she go?” “Must’ve gone in the bushes down there. She’ll come back when she feels better. We got on her nerves.” “I’ll be good. Won’t fight no more.” “You can have the truck. I’m too big for it,” Mark said, feeling ashamed for fighting over a toy. Their heads hanging, the boys turned and walked toward the house. When they were a few yards past the barn, the woman emerged from a stable door and fell in behind them, taking care to step lightly. But the boys heard or sensed her presence, turned and ran toward her. She knelt in the path and opened her arms for them. “I wasn’t going to leave you silly boys,” the woman said, hugging them. Looking over his mother’s shoulder at the gray, weathered planks of the barn’s face, the dark mouth-like entrance to the loft where hay was stored, Mark felt that the world had changed. He gazed out across the pasture. The hillside, the fields, the two tan jersey cows grazing in sunlight were the same. He and his mama were not. Kermit Turner has published two short-story collections, A MATTER OF BLOOD and CULTURE WARS, and a novel, FUNLAND. These books are available from AMAZON in paperback and e-book editions. Signed copies of the paperbacks are available at the Hickory Art Museum gift shop. MUSIC SCHEDULE: City Hall Stage Friday, October 5th 7p.m-10p.m - too MUCH SyLviA Saturday, October 6th 11a.m.-1p.m. – Bearwallow Bluegrass 1p.m.-4p.m. – The Night Move Band 4:15p.m.-4:45p.m. – Miss Treva’s School of Dance 5p.m.-8p.m. – Kelby Costner with Opening Act - Country St. Mark’s Gospel Stage Saturday, October 6th 10a.m.-12p.m. – The Gospelaires 12p.m.-2p.m. – Carolina Quartet 2p.m.-4p.m. – The LeFevre Quartet 4p.m.-6p.m. – Carolina Quartet with LeFevres “Crazy Fun for Everyone!” October 5 – 6PM-11PM October 6 – 10AM-8PM Live Music Main Stage and Gospel Stage, Kids Zone with Inflatables, Carnival Games, Food Court, Beer Garden, Over 120 Craft and Retail Vendors FREE EVENT
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142 Ana Cristina Godoy Accredited Jewelry Professional Jewelry Appraisals Graduated Gemologist GIA#0010127822 Custom Fine Jewelry 828.493.3744 Anacristinagodoy.com anakadesign@yahoo.com In our next issue... Spooky Foothills Our region is full of mystery and ghost stories abound. We explore several of these stories. Brown Mountain Lights are always a favorite! Furniture Hickory has always been a major furniture hub. This is still true today. We explore the history, the present and the future of furniture in the Foothills. Balloons Look Up! Statesville Balloon Festival is this Fall, and we’ll tell you how to best enjoy it. And more! Our next issue is stuffed full of goodies, and we can’t wait to share it with you! If you don’t have a subscription, you can take care of that at: foothillsdigest.com!
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143 Photo by Jeff Wilhelm
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145 Photo by Serge Skiba Chimney Rock State Park Photo by Sean Pavone
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147 Photo by Katherine Dellinger Info on this hike on page 102.
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148 (828) 322-8011