Spring Issue

51

“Laying Beneath Rain,

On A Strange Roof”

A column of nostalgia, growing up in the foothills

by Robert Canipe

Relatives often begin us on the most fulfilling and dangerous journeys. For me, it
is the introduction to books at a very early age.
To be honest, I am a book addict. I adore their look, their smell, their mere presence
comforts and calms me. I wrote a lengthy paper in college about how the library
is my favorite place to unwind. Not the beach or the mountains, but the library. My
classmates snickered and scoffed.
But I love books and have from the first ones I was given by adoring aunts and
uncles, grandparents, and friends of my parents when I was a toddler. Even coloring
books resonated with me, the lines of black and white figures waiting to come alive
under my hand and crayon. Those Disney and superhero coloring books changed
into, what I would learn at 5 were called, comics.
A cousin—much older—introduced me to comics via the
older 1950s horror comics like Tales from the Crypt
and the Vault of Horror when I was 5 or so. Cousin
Randy was also the person who gave me the largest
book I had ever seen: A thick copy of Solzhenitsyn’s
The Gulag Archipelago. I read it in college finally, it
being completely unmanageable for an 8-year-old.
But it was Randy’s mom, my Aunt Bertha,
who set my book addition full blast when she gave me
dozens of Hardy Boys novels by Franklin W. Dixon.
These I was able to read, and Frank and Joe Hardy
became my best friends. These books fascinated me. The
beige and brown matching covers were adorned with
matching typefaces and the paper—oh, that yellowing,
rough paper—each novel was printed on, deckle edged
and cheap, but built to last as I run into original copies
in thrift stores. I never realized until years later
that the books once had dust jackets that everyone
apparently took off and tossed out.

52

wpsymphony.org

(828) 324-8603

53

Leaving a Legacy of Love

Last December, Julia Rush took her final bow. After a long That moment changed my life. When she took me on, she
illness, Hickory’s reigning diva passed away at 77. listed one major requirement. She explained that people
A fixture in our community for decades, Julia moved to came into her store - not just to shop - but to find out
the area in 1978. She married Beemer Harrell in their half- what was happening in downtown Hickory. She insisted that
finished house the following year and opened Julia Rush her employees had to be involved in the community. We
Fine Crafts shortly thereafter. Her gallery was a mainstay of needed to be able to speak intelligently about concerts,
Union Square for thirty years. poetry readings, art openings, plays.
Growing up, I had frequented her shop. Every time my I took her at her word, and I immediately became immersed
mother and I wanted to do something a little special, we in Hickory’s vibrant arts scene. Thanks to Julia, I met poets,
would visit the place just to be surrounded by beauty. We artists, thespians, musicians, and craftspeople - folks who
rarely bought anything, but Julia’s personality had imbued continue to be some of the most influential figures in my
the atmosphere, and without even knowing her yet, we life. When I first started working at Julia’s, I was soft-spoken
enjoyed the fun spirit that invited us back time and again. and shy, uncertain in my artistic ability. Working with Julia
I didn’t officially meet Julia until I interviewed for a job years awakened some untapped part of me. I knew my life would
later. At 23, I was just rediscovering my love of art in a never be the same.
serious way. Like many in their early twenties, I felt a little In the years I worked at her gallery, Julia’s life changed too.
lost and was looking for something meaningful. Lana Ruffini, Beemer - her soulmate since their first meeting at Penland
Julia’s long-serving store manager, could perhaps sense that School of Crafts - passed away. The economy shifted. She
about me. She sent me to meet Julia, and in about five was getting older. After three decades, she celebrated her
minutes, I was hired. long-running success with a closing sale that somehow
became a party.

Written by Lindsay Barrick. Photography by Jeff Wilhelm (this page) and Jon Eckard (right).

54

Unexpectedly, the women that Julia had hired formed living an authentic life, and she was eager to have others
a stronger bond outside of the gallery setting. A experience such joy.
sisterhood was born and remains vibrant, if altered, My dad and I visited Julia a few hours before she died.
even at the passing of our dynamic founder. For over She had always held a fondness for my family. She had
a decade now, we haven’t missed a single opportunity dated my grandfather and had enjoyed being part of our
to celebrate one another’s birthdays. Lana, Gail, Missy, lives. I’ll never forget those final moments with Julia, my
and I will always be committed to honoring Julia and the dad whispering to her, “Thank you for always being true to
friendships that mattered so much to her. yourself. And thank you for helping my daughter learn how
In the years after her retirement, Julia continued to to be true to herself too.”
explore and learn. She traveled and took art classes, A few days before, on my own with Julia while she still had
dated and performed, mentored and enjoyed life. moments of clarity, she looked me right in the eyes and
In the last few months of that beautiful life, her health said, “Lindsay, I love you, Baby.” Even at the last, she gave.
failed. Her sisterhood - along with dear family and old With her final words to me resounding in my heart, I offer
friends - gathered to express our love. We reminded her this tribute to the woman who helped craft my own life
of the gift she was to so many. as much as she influenced our community. For honest
Lana, now the director of Unique World Gifts, recalls, conversations and earnest enthusiasm, for long, slow walks
“Julia had a very giving nature. She just loved to give. and spur-of-the-moment concerts, for shared tears and
There are so many things around my house that came hearty laughs, I give thanks. I rejoice in the mentor and
from her. Beautiful things. But she really gave of herself. friend who changed enough lives to fill issue after issue of
She gave me life experience. She taught me everything this magazine with remembrances and reflections.
I know about business. She was such an influence.” The next time you walk in Hickory’s
Julia’s daughter Barb shares, “I had no idea how many charming downtown or see a wonderful
people’s lives she influenced until after she died. So community theatre production or witness
many people have told me she mentored them and a powerful art reception or experience a
encouraged them to pursue careers in the arts.” concert, know that there was once a woman
Julia was an outspoken advocate for the arts. She who cared and gave with her whole heart.
believed in the importance of beauty and creative Hickory is well crafted thanks in large part
expression. She was a potter and singer, jeweler and to Julia Rush. She poured her passion into
business woman, mentor and entrepreneur. She never others, and now we are called upon to boldly build upon
lost her fervor for making and performing. As her her legacy. She always believed in us, and that gives me
daughter puts it, “the world was truly her stage.” hope.
She never tired of encouraging people in their dreams. Lindsay Barrick is the executive director of Caldwell Arts
She had found the power and grace that comes from Council and believes much of the goodness of her life is
attributable to Julia Rush.

55

Opulent
Seating
for Ten

BY THE OUTSTANDING TEAM
AT STEELE’S CONSTRUCTION
The Steele family was excited England. The luxury of the
to work with the Herndons of fabric matches no velvet This custom bench was
Hickory to create a luxurious I’ve seen stateside. created from silver velvet
dining experience with This fabric was used and built to fit the needs of
room for several guests. to create a vibrant and the family.
The Herndon family enjoys opulent hand-tufted,
entertaining and needed cushioned wall, The large round table fills
space to host large dinners. Silver velvet, crushed
After meeting with the with a custom designed
Herndons to discuss pattern, was used to
their needs and style, create a stunning custom
the Steele’s set to work. bench. The pattern, a mix
The team designed a of triangles and lines, is
custom table, handcrafted modern but timeless.
from white oak by Arthur The bench’s scalloped
Millworks in California. This edge is elegant and it fits
furniture company is the perfectly beneath a dining
brainchild of Tim Arthur, room window, and even
master carpenter, and it’s opens for storage. The
been featured on HGTV, piece is castored for ease
DIY and House Crashers. of use.

The table fit the spot The chairs around the the space completely and
perfectly, and the design large table were custom perfectly.
flows with the style of the designed to showcase both
space. of the luxurious fabrics. Donna Steele moves the
The design team knew they The back inlay matches beautiful custom bench into
wanted luxurious velvet the silver bench, while the
to create the upholstered seats match the gold wall.
walls and the seats. Unable Place settings of gold
to find velvet to meet their and silver tie together the
high standards here in the different design elements
US, the team designed a beautifully. Their design
custom gold velvet and had blends nature and luxury.
it created and imported from

place.

(828) 322-8011

57

The space features two globed
sconces which complete the
design of the tufted wall and
add elegance to the whole
scene.
The whole room is set off
beautifully by the inclusion of
two chandeliers. These were
chosen for their streamlined yet
extravagant style. The addition
of a second chandelier grabs
the viewer’s attention. The
table beneath the chandeliers
is enormous, and the addition
of the second light highlights
the grandness of the design.
As always, the Steeles finished
the design with lush floral
arrangements.
This space is sumptuous,
lavish, and plush. The elegance
of the space is what draws the
viewer. But the size and utility
of the space is what makes it
amazing. Entertaining many
guests will be accomplished
with ease. The homeowners
will enjoy their new dining
room, which feels cozy and
French, despite having room
for ten.
Tim and Donna Steele and their
team consistently produce
gorgeous high-end homes
and redesigns. They are known
for their opulence, and for
their ability to create upscale
spaces that are beautiful and
functional.
Their office is located on
Highway 127 North in Hickory
at 1839 N Center Street. The
team would love to set up a
meeting with you to discuss
your design needs and your
wishlist.

58

59

An Appalachian

cidery

In the low light of sunrise on a warm June

morning, along a south-facing slope tucked away
in a valley, Justin Fox and his family found what
they had been looking for: an orchard. They are
the proud owners of over two hundred thirty-
five year old apples trees in the mountains north
of Boone. They are gnarly, unmanaged shells of
their former selves, but with a little tender love
and care they will produce many tons of fruit.
The Fox family is caring for this land and these
trees: pruning, picking, and eventually, pressing
into cider, managing the orchard holistically,
treating each issue that arises with forethought
and persistence. They are now building a small
cellar to ferment the pressed fruit into traditional,
small batch ciders that represent the property and
their family. Justin is the second place winner of
the 2017 Edison Competition, and will bring Cider
to the Hickory area soon. Be on the lookout!

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

Foothills

The foothills of North Carolina have a rich farming
tradition. From the moment settlers first tilled the
land, our harvests have been bountiful. While our
region has its challenges, it’s proven to be a place
where smaller, family farms are able to thrive,
somewhat insulated from the pressures caused by
the enormous food and farming industry at large.
A large part of the success of these local farms
comes from our elaborate network of farmers
markets, which allow farmers to sell directly to
their customers, instead of grocery stores buying
in bulk.
Another part is the geography and biology of our
land. It lends itself to smaller operations much
more easily.
Small crops that are rotated and tended to
lovingly flourish here. The produce they bear
are full of nourishment, and the food isn’t
stripped of nutrients like magnesium. This is a
problem with the vegetables generally available
at most grocery stores. In the foothills, we
have biodiversity, bees, mineral rich soil and
a season that rarely gets scorching hot. You
can taste the difference these things make.
It’s almost time for plump, vine-ripened tomatoes.
Here they taste alive, vibrant and bursting with
flavor. You can almost taste the sunshine. A bite
of a juicy tomato from one of our farmers markets,
still warm from the sun, reminds you of what food
is meant to taste like, and hearkens you back to a
time when everything wasn’t over processed and
life was simpler.

62

Farming
Farmers here know they are doing meaningful
work. Foothills farmer Shiloh Avery of Tumbling
Shoals Farm tells me that farmers markets
allow her to connect with her customers,
to see who she is feeding. That reminds
her of the importance of what she is doing.
Tumbling Shoals Farm is an all organic farm located
in Wilkes County, run by Shiloh and her husband
Jason Roehrig. They put down roots, ”literally
and figuratively,” according to Shiloh, in 2006
and have been providing the foothills of North
Carolina with organic produce for over a decade.
Shiloh explains that our region has it’s own set of
challenges. For instance, the shape of their farm
and a scientific principal called ”inversion” cause
parts of her farm to be 10-15 degrees colder than
other parts. The couple have been able to work
with this natural phenomenon instead of against
it, producing some of the region’s most delicious
food.
The couple is able to use a host of traditional and
modern techniques to grow their produce free
of pesticides. Tumbling Shoals Farm sells their
produce at the Downtown Hickory Farmers Market
as well as the Boone Farmers Market.
Visiting farmers markets is a great way to connect
with your community and neighbors. Be sure to
check out our list of Farmers Markets on the following
pages. We think we’ve done a pretty thorough job,
but if we missed one, be sure to let us know! You
can always reach us at [email protected].

63

64

farmers markets
in the Foothills

Alleghany Downtown (Rutherford) Hildebran
Farmers Market Farmers Market Farmers Market

Hwy 18 N. Crouse Park PO Box 240 202 South Center Street
Sparta, NC 28675 Laurinburg, NC 28353 Hildebran, NC 28637
 (276) 655-4045  (910) 277-7860 (828) 397-5801
(276) 235-1413 hildebranfarmersmarket.com/
Downtown Dobson
Ashe County Farmers Market Historic Marion
Farmers Market Tailgate Market
Franklin Street
108 Backstreet Dobson, NC 27017 67 W. Henderson Street
West Jefferson, NC 28694 (336) 401-8025 Marion, NC 28752
(336) 877-5052 (828) 652-2215
ashefarmersmarket.com Downtown Hickory hometownmarion.com 
Farmers Market
Caldwell County Lake Lure Market
Farmers Market Union Square
Hickory, NC 28601 Memorial Hwy.
120 Hospital Ave, NE, Ste 1  (828) 308-6508 Lake Lure, NC 28746
Lenoir, NC 28645 hickoryfarmersmarket.com
(828) 757-1290 Lenoir Downtown
 (828) 758-0729 Elkin Farmers’ Market Farmers Market

Catawba County Public 226 N. Bridge Street 385 Harper Ave.
Health Farmers Market Elkin, NC 28621 Lenoir, NC 28645
(336) 401-8025 (828) 221-4935
3070 11th Ave. Dr. SE elkinfarmersmarket.com
Hickory, NC 28602 Lincoln County Farmers
(828) 695-5800 Evening Market at Denver
catawbacountync.gov/phealth Farmers Market
3633 Hwy 16 North
Catawba Valley Pecan Park Denver , NC 28037
Farmers Market Statesville, NC 28677  (704) 736-8461
(704) 873-3361 lincolncountyfarmersmarket.com 
PO Box 389 theeveningfarmersmarket.com
Newton, NC 28658 Lincoln County Farmers
 (828) 478-2661 Farmer’s Fresh Market-Downtown
ces.ncsu.edu/copubs/ag/fnv/002  Tailgate Market Lincolnton

City of Claremont 146 N. Main Street 225 West Water Street
Rutherfordton, NC 28139 Lincolnton, NC 28092
3288 East Main Street  (828) 288-1650 (704) 736-8461
Claremont, NC 28610 828) 429-2497 lincolncountyfarmersmarket.com
(828) 466-7255 farmersfreshmarket.org
cityofclaremont.org Lowell
Foothills Farmers’ Market Farmer’s Market
Conover Farmers Market
111 S. Washington Street 101 West First Street
109 1st Street East Shelby, NC 28150 Lowell, NC 28098
Conover, NC 28613  (704) 482-4365 (704) 824-3519
(828) 234-7075 foothillsfarmersmarket.com/ lowellnc.com
conoverfarmersmarket.org
Gastonia Marion
Dobson Farmer’s Market Farmers Market Tailgate Market

302 West Folger Street 410 E. Long Avenue 67 W. Henderson Street
Dobson, NC 27017 Gastonia, NC 28054 Marion, NC 28752
(336) 401-8025 (704) 853-0049 (828) 652-2215
surry.ces.ncsu.edu
65

Meeting Street Rotary Valdese Farmer’s Market
Farmers Market Farmers Market
Faet St.
252 Williamson Road  E. Sharpe Street Valdese, NC 28690
Mooresville, NC 28117 Statesville, NC 28677  (828) 439-4460
 (704) 714-3088 (704) 873-6457
meetingstreetmarket.com Wilkes County
Rutherford County Farmers’ Market
Mooresville Farmers Market
Farmers Market 200 Chestnut Street
PO Box 272 North Wilkesboro, NC 28659
255 E Iredell Ave - Liberty Park Rutherford, NC 28139 (336) 667-7129
Mooresville, NC 28115 (828) 287-6010
Yadkin Farmers Market
Morganton Shacktown Farmers’
Farmers Market Market at Billet-Doux Farm 1141 Tennessee Street
Yadkinville, NC 27055
300 Beach Street 2816 Shacktown Road
Morganton, NC 28655 Yadkinville, NC 27055
(828) 438-5252 336) 391-8459
downtownmorganton.com shacktownnc.com

Mount Airy Statesville Rotary
Farmers’ Market Farmers Market

541 W. Pine Street, Ste 200 East Sharpe Street
Mount Airy, NC 27030 Statesville, NC 28677
(336) 401-8025  (704) 878-4371

Mount Holly Town of Wilkesboro
Farmers Market
102 West Main Street 
130 South Main Street Wilkesboro, NC 28697
Mount Holly, NC 28120 Office Phone: (336) 838-3951
(704) 372-8666
mounthollyfarmersmarket.com/

66

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

67

Flourishing in fertile Ground

By Michael Willard

Carefully sown in fertile soil, every seed has a chance to bear fruit.
With nourishment, the smallest germination spreads roots and sprouts life. There’s labor and toil through metamorphosis
and growth. Production blooms, and a fruitful next generation is born. Seasons turn, new growth buds, and bountiful
harvest multiplies.
But the ground must be fertile, the live-giving necessities abundant.
Marcus P. Miller sowed the first seeds of Hickory Greenway Harvest in January 2016. Conditioned by a lifetime of
insight handed down a generation, the organization he nurtures alongside like-minded co-workers, community leaders,
businesses and master gardeners has produced quickly.
In its first growing season, a demonstration garden on Hickory’s SALT Block and large working garden in rural Catawba
County provided more than 1,400 pounds of fresh vegetables – almost 3,700 meals – for Hickory Soup Kitchen, Safe
Harbor Rescue Mission, The Corner Table and other food support agencies.
“We’ve started these gardens as a conduit to bring together all walks of life and address some of the critical needs facing

our community,” says Miller, HGH’s President and
Founder. “The metaphors you can apply to gardening
are very applicable to leadership development,
community collaboration, therapeutic healing –
because it has really worked for me in that way.”
Seedling support from Salt Block Foundation, N.C.
Cooperative Extension, Catawba County Farm
Bureau, Transportation Insight’s Service in Action,
Hickory Rotary Club, Carolina Glove and Southern
States nurtured initial projects. New volunteer, in-kind
and financial help from GKN Sinter, Lowe’s Home
Improvement, First United Methodist Church of Hickory
and other partnerships bolster future growth: 24 new
vegetable beds at partner agencies planned for the
2018 growing season.
Importantly, Hickory Greenway Harvest is propagating
more than seeds in the soil. Established roots
dedicated to the memory of Fred D Abernethy are
supporting new dialogues about larger issues plaguing
the Hickory Metro.
Ongoing nutrition education offered in partnerships
with Conover Farmer’s Market, Catawba County DSS
and Lenoir-Rhyne University’s Solmaz Institute re-
enforce the important role fresh vegetables play in
sustainable solutions for food shortage. Promising
new crops focus on anti-bullying, therapeutic outreach,
mentoring and life skills.
“The gardens we’re building is part of our overall
mission to work together with other organizations,
but we’re not specifically about just building gardens,”
Miller says. “It is one thing to come in and play in the
garden, but Hickory Greenway Harvest is working to
initiate a variety of new opportunities that are helpful to
the community – particularly those people struggling
at the margins.”
For more on Hickory Greenway Harvest, visit www.
hickorygreenwayharvest.org.

strawberry
picking

70

There aren’t many better ways to spend a spring or summer

day than picking strawberries with people you care about.
Fortunately, the foothills offer many opportunities to pick your
own fruit. These are all pick your own strawberry farms in our
region. You may want to call ahead to make sure the farm is
open before you visit.

The Farmers’ Daughter 

2150 Friendship Church Road
Taylorsville, NC 28681
828-312-8137

Avery Farms

615 Avery Lane
Plumtree NC 28664

828-733-5052

Rock Creek Farm 

6520 Rhoney Road
Connelly Springs, NC 28612

(828)437-6218
(828)448-2046

Triple Oaks Farm

4731 Ike Starnes Road
Granite Falls, NC 28630

(828) 396-1130

Lineberger’s Berry Hill Farm (Iron Station) 

2400 Hudson Poultry Road
Iron Station, NC 28080
(704) 748-1488

71

72

McCurry’s Sell this.
Strawberry Farm 
Buy this!
735 Wise Road
Lincolnton, NC 28092 Refined Finds

(704) 732-1802 (828) 324-1655
(704) 735-0338
831 Old Lenoir Rd NW, Hickory
Rocking W. Farm  hickorytreeconsignment.com
73
2317 Lace Knoll Road
East Bend, NC 27018

(336) 961-6373
(336) 961-6640

Ira Cline Farm

4444 Lee Cline Road
Conover, NC 28613

828-464-5942

Maple Springs Farm
(Linebergers)

906 Dallas-Stanley Highway
#275

Dallas, NC 28034
704-922-8688
704-748-1488

Carrigan Farms, LLC 

1261 Oak Ridge Farm
Highway

Mooresville, NC 28115
704-664-1450

[email protected]. 

Howards Family Farm 

250 Crater Road
Harmony, NC 28634

704-539-4994.

Strawberry Ginger Glazed
Whole Roasted Chicken

INGREDIENTS: Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
1: Clean chicken and remove backbone with kitchen shears. Butterfly
1 Whole Chicken chicken onto aluminum lined baking sheet.
2: Prepare glaze by whisking all ingredients in a small bowl until
FOR GLAZE: combined.
3: Using a brush, cover chicken with 1/2 of glaze and reserve
2 Tbsp. of soy sauce remaining half for basting during cooking.
2 Tbsp. of strawberry 4: Place chicken in over at 425 degrees for 20 minutes.
jam, preferably seedless 5: Baste chicken with remaining glaze.
1 Tbsp. sesame oil 6: Lower heat to 350 degrees and roast for approximately 30-40
1 tsp. salt more minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of
1 tsp. pepper 165 degrees.
1 tsp. garlic powder 7: Remove chicken and allow to rest for 10 minutes before cutting or
1/2 tsp. of ginger powder serving.

74

INGREDIENTS 1: In a saute pan, heat sesame oil and add mushrooms to the pan.
FOR GARNISH: 2: Cook mushrooms until brown and add then green onions.
3: Sprinkle garlic powder and toss.
2 bunches of whole 4: Add butter and soy sauce and toss until the water is reduced into a
thick sauce, about 5 minutes.
green onions 5: Serve immediately with chicken.

1 Cup of sliced THESE RECIPES HAVE BEEN CREATED BY
CALVIN REYES. CALVIN IS IN THE MIDST OF AN
mushrooms ADAPTIVE REUSE PROJECT AT HENRY RIVER
MILL VILLAGE. HE WILL EVENTUALLY OPEN A
2 Tbsp. of soy sauce RESTAURANT ON SITE.
1 Tbsp. of garlic powder
1 Tbsp. of butter
1 tsp. of sesame oil

75

Roasted Spring Radishes

INGREDIENTS: 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2 bunches radishes, 2: In a bowl combine all of the ingredients and toss until
radishes are evenly coated with the oil.
cleaned and halved

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 Tbsp. olive oil 3: Place radishes cut side down on baking sheet or in
1 tsp. sea salt casserole dish.
1 tsp. garlic powder 4: Bake for 14-16 minutes or until slightly golden brown.

1 Tbsp. fresh parsley, 5: Toss with parsley and serve immediately.

chopped

76

Strawberry & Cabbage Slaw

INGREDIENTS:

3 Cups of purple 1. In a stainless steel pan, toast walnuts until they just start
cabbage, chopped to brown. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, strawberries and
1 Cup of walnuts,

chopped walnuts. Toss lightly.

1 Cup of fresh 3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar,
strawberries, chopped sesame oil, garlic powder, salt and sugar.
2 Tbsp. of white balsamic 4. Pour whisked mixture over cabbage mixture and toss
lightly.
vinegar

2 Tbsp. of sesame oil

1 tsp. of garlic powder 5. Serve immediately with optional sesame seed garnish.
1 tsp. of salt

1 Tbsp of granulated

sugar

1 Tbsp Sesame seeds for
garnish

77

78

Strawberry Cake

INGREDIENTS: 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2: Mix together well. Bake until a toothpick comes out
1 Box Cake Mix clean, which depends on pan shape/size and your oven.
1/2 Cup Frozen 3: Let cool
Strawberrries *If you add more frozen strawberries, your cake will fall.
1/2 Cup Water *Fresh strawberries can be used.
1Box Strawberry *Instead of 1 cup oil, you can use 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup
Jello oil.
1 cup Wesson Oil
4 eggs

ICING

INGREDIENTS: 1: Mix together.
2: Ice the Cake
1 box Powdered *Cream cheese is often added, to taste.
Sugar, sifted
1/2 cup Strawberries
1/2 stick of butter

This cake has so many variations. How do you make it
differently? Let us know at [email protected]!

79

HIGHLAND AVE

By Carmen Eckard Photographed By Jon Eckard

Farm to table and served on handmade local pottery, this restaurant
offers an unforgettable experience that’s authentic and quietly lush.

80

81

To me, Highland Avenue encapsulates the revitalization of the Foothills region, and so, it’s
dear to my heart. Highland Avenue Restaurant is located on the second floor of the Hollar
Mill building. Once a thriving mill, the building had fallen vacant and over time became a
visual representation of the hard times the city faced. The renovation the mill jump-started
several similar projects, and Hickory looks very different than it did just five years ago.
82

The ambiance here is remarkable. The
space feels expansive and like it’s dripping
in history.
Our food arrives on pottery plates,
thrown especially for Highland Avenue by
Hamilton Williams in Morganton.
The ”Farmer and Chef Vegetarian” meal,
seen on page 81, changes based on what’s
in season. Our meal came from Koto Family
Farms, Anson Mills and Jamie Swofford, a
farmer who is connected to the culinary
scene, providing excellent and on trend
produce.
Carrots, lacinto kale, Parisian scooped
turnips, sweet potatoes, garbonzo beans,
and sea island peas were topped with a
tangy but savory carrot top verde.
It was followed by a delicious flatbread
(below) that’s been described as ”the best
pizza in town.” With a house made crust,

local sausage, peppadew peppers and mushrooms,
then covered in mozzarella, this flatbread has a
satisfying crunch and interesting blend of flavors.
Salads at Highland Avenue are always delicious,
with unexpected additions. This nutty and tart salad
was an excellent balance to the bread, served with
freshly blended butters and jams.
The seafood at Highland Avenue is fresh and
from our own coasts. This trout was served
with sweet potatoes and a sherry cream. The
details of these meals change frequently,
as the seasons change for our farmers.
Highland Avenue is part of the larger farm-to-table
movement which focuses on getting farm fresh,
locally grown food into the hands of experienced
cooks, without middlemen slowing down the
process. The recipes reflect the fluid nature of
local offerings, and the restaurant is able to serve
delicious, nutritious food to local audiences.

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Check out foothills kids

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Derby Party

on the SALT Block

Tickets are on sale for the fourth annual Derby Party and Friendraiser. Break out
your big hats and bowties and join us for the best watch party in town.
To be held on Saturday, May 5, 2018 from 4:00 – 9:30 pm on the SALT Block North
Lawn, the party features a cash bar with beer, wine and a variety of flavored juleps,
as well as Derby games, raffles, a best dressed contest, music, a southern fare buffet
and a live viewing of the race.
“We are proud to host this event again this year in our beautiful outdoor space.
Your support of the Derby Party and the SALT Block Foundation touches five cultural
organizations which reside on the Block,” said Tara Bland, Executive Director.
Tickets are $40 each and available until May 4th. All proceeds go to the SALT
Block Foundation (SBF), a non-profit organization which oversees the operation of
the SALT Block and provides occupancy costs for the residents: Catawba Science
Center, Hickory Choral Society, Hickory Museum of Art, United Arts Council and
Western Piedmont Symphony.
Please contact Tara H. Bland at the SALT Block Foundation, 828-324-4906 x 303 for
tickets or more information, or go to www.SaltBlockFoundation.org to order online.
You may also mail your check to the SALT Block Foundation, 243 Third Avenue NE,
Box 7, Hickory, NC 28601.

Photo by Mitzi Gellman

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Photograph by
Clayton Joe Young

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Before there was Merlefest,
there was the Watson family.

Born Arthel Lane Watson in Deep Gap in 1923, Doc lost his vision before his first birthday, but his love
of music has been apparent his whole life. Doc received his first instrument at the age of 5: a harmonica,
which he played with gusto. When he was 12, his dad, who always encouraged him, told him if he could
learn to play a song in one day, he’d buy him a guitar. He learned ”When Roses Bloom in Dixieland” and
earned his first guitar, a Stella. Music became his way of life, and by the time he reached adulthood, he
was a skilled musician by any measure.
Doc Watson has spent his life creating music, helping to shape bluegrass music along the way. His unusual flat-
picking style transformed guitar from a back up rhythm instrument to an instrument worthy of its own solos.
One notable thing about Doc Watson was that as he was coming into his own as a musician, all around him
folk singers of the day were singing protest songs, pushing every envelope they ran across. Doc Watson,
true to his Appalachian roots, sang of family, God and the blues. He developed his own style, holding on
to the traditions of those before him. He brought mountain music to the masses but with panache.
Musician Arlen Roth writes in his book Arlen Roth’s Complete Acoustic Guitar, ”...we can attribute an entirely
new style and a whole generation of pickers to [Watson’s] inspiration. He was the first rural acoustic player
to truly ’amaze’ urban audiences in the early 1960s with his dazzling, fast technique, and he has continued
to be a driving, creative force on the acoustic music scene.”

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Bob Dylan compared Watson’s guitar style to ”water running,” while Watson more humbly called it
”country pickin.”
But as important as music was to Doc Watson, it never trumped family. In fact, music was always a family
affair. He married the daughter of popular fiddle player Gaither Carlton. Rosa Lee and Doc went on to
have two children, Eddy Merle and Nancy Ellen. In 1964, Merle joined his father on stage at the age of 15.
For the next twenty years, the two men performed together, earning three Grammies and international
acclaim. Unfortunately, in 1985, tragedy struck, and Merle died in a tractor accident on the family property.
Doc Watson did return to music without his son by side, earning 3 more Grammies and a Lifetime
Achievement Grammy as well. But he decided to work with the local college, Wilkes Community College,
to produce an annual music festival in honor of his son. The name ”Merlefest” was a fitting tribute to his.
He said, “When Merle and I started out we called our music ‘traditional plus’, meaning the traditional music
of the Appalachian region plus whatever other styles we were in the mood to play. Since the beginning,
the people of the college and I have agreed that the music of MerleFest is ‘traditional plus’.”
Doc Watson died in 2012 at the age of 89, leaving behind an enormous legacy.
Scan the code at right for a real treat: hear Doc Watson talk about his dad and play
harmonica in a recording from his aptly titled album ”Legacy.” The whole album is
enthralling and important for everyone who loves bluegrass.

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Merlefest started in 1988, after the death of Eddy Merle Watson. From the
beginning, it’s been the primary fundraiser for Wilkes Community College.
Like Doc Watson’s own music, the festival is known for representing the concept of ”traditional
plus.” It is a unique mix of music based on the traditional, roots-oriented sounds of the
Appalachian region, including bluegrass and old-time music, and expanded to include Americana,
country, blues, rock and many other styles.
Merlefest is consistently one of the largest music festivals in the nation, bringing in
around 75,000 each year. This brings about $10 million annually to the foothills. There are
13 stages and 4 days of music, with so many acts it’s difficult to keep an accurate list.
Merlefest is THE premiere bluegrass festival in the world. Most of the major musical artists in
the field have performed at Merlefest, including Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, Earl Scruggs, The
Kruger Brothers, Carolina Chocolate Drops, John Prine, Alison Krauss and Union Station, Donna
the Buffalo, Natalie MacMaster, Vassar Clements, Hot Tuna, Joe Smothers, Alan Jackson, Darius
Rucker, David Grisman, Ricky Skaggs, Emmylou Harris, Jerry Douglas, Del McCoury, Junior Brown,
Mary Chapin Carpenter, Claire Lynch, Elvis Costello, Howard Armstrong, Randy Travis, Lyle Lovett,
The Doobie Brothers, Robert Plant and the Band of Joy, Sharon Gilchrist, The Avett Brothers,
Tony Rice, Francois Vola, Emory lester, Old Crow Medicine Show, Steve Martin and the Steep
Canyon Rangers, Zac Brown Band, Dierks Bentley, Linda Ronstadt, Levon Helm, Taj Mahal, Bruce
Hornsby, Cadillac Sky and Vince Gill.

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OUR FACTORY OUTLET

COMFORT FOR THE MIND, BODY & WALLET

Shop our ever-changing assortment of factory overruns, discontinued items and market samples.
All priced at an extraordinary value: a guaranteed minimum of 50% off suggested retail.

like us for new arrivals and special offers

Hickory Furniture Mart (level 1, west entrance)
2220 Hwy 70 SE, Hickory, NC 28602
Tel: 828.261.0051 / Monday thru Saturday 9am to 6pm

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Kris Kristofferson

has been making things happen his entire life. Born in Texas and raised in a military family, he was a Golden
Gloves boxer who studied creative writing at Pomona College in California. The Phi Beta Kappa graduate
earned a Rhodes scholarship to study literature at Oxford, where he boxed, played rugby and continued to write
songs. After graduating from Oxford, Kristofferson served in the army as an Airborne Ranger helicopter pilot
and achieved the rank of Captain. In 1965, Kristofferson turned down an assignment to teach at West Point and,
inspired by songwriters like Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash, moved to Nashville to pursue his music.
“When I was in the army, I was one of the few people outside of his personal friends who knew about Willie
Nelson,” Kristofferson recalls. “I listened to a disc jockey who happened to be a Willie fan. He would play Willie’s
songs and talk about him all the time. By the time I got to Nashville, he was a superhero to me. For guys like me,
Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson were two gods we worshiped. Then Willie and I got to be best friends. I came
from a position of idolizing him to finding out he’s the funniest son of a bitch you could be around.”
After struggling in Music City for several years, Kristofferson achieved remarkable success as a country
songwriter at the start of the 1970s. His songs “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Help Me Make It Through the Night,”
“Sunday Morning Coming Down,” and “For the Good Times,” all chart-topping hits, helped redefine country
songwriting. By 1987, it was estimated that more than 450 artists had recorded Kristofferson’s compositions.
His renown as a songwriter triggered Kristofferson’s successful career as a performer and that, in turn, brought
him to the attention of Hollywood, leading to his flourishing career as a film actor. Kristofferson has acted in
more than 70 films. In 1977 He won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in “A Star Is Born.” He’s appeared in cult
favorites including the “Blade” trilogy, “Lone Star,” “A Soldier’s Daughter Never Cries,” “Alice Doesn’t Live
Here Anymore,” “Blume In Love,” “Cisco Pike,” and “Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid.” Recent films include “Fast
Food Nation,” “Dreamer: Inspired By A True Story,” “The Jacket,” “Silver City,” “He’s Just Not That In To You,”
and “Dolphin Tale.”
Heralded as an artist’s artist, the three-time GRAMMY winner has recorded 28 albums, including three with pals
Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings as part of the Highwaymen. Kristofferson has spent three
decades performing concerts all over the world, in most recent years in a solo acoustic setting, which puts the
focus on the songs. “There’s an honesty in the sparseness. It feels like direct communication to the listener,”
he says. “I still have more fun when I’m with the band, but being alone is freer, somehow. It’s like being an old
blues guy, just completely stripped away.”
Kristofferson has reached living legend status, but that hasn’t changed or hindered his creativity. His current
CD, Feeling Mortal contains eleven gems that explore love, gratitude, aging, and his ever-present theme of
freedom. “If you took freedom out of the songs, you’d have very few Kristofferson songs,” he laughs.
In addition to many other awards, Kristofferson is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, winner of
the prestigious Johnny Mercer Award from the Songwriter Hall of Fame, and was honored with the American
Veteran’s Association’s “Veteran of the Year Award” in 2002. For Kristofferson’s 70th birthday in 2006, his friends
and admirers gifted him with a tribute CD, The Pilgrim: A Celebration of Kris Kristofferson. Stars including
Willie Nelson, Russell Crowe, Emmylou Harris, Gretchen Wilson, Rosanne Cash, and Brian McKnight recorded
17 of Kristofferson’s compositions for the tribute. In 2007, Kristofferson was honored with the Johnny Cash
Visionary Award from Country Music Television and in 2009 BMI lauded Kristofferson with the Icon Award. He
received the Frances Preston Music Industry Award from the T.J. Martell Foundation in March, 2012. In 2014,
Kristofferson was honored with a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award and the PEN Song Lyrics of Literary
Excellence Award.
Photo and Bio courtesy of Kris Kristofferson.

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Sam Bush has performed at each Merlefest, making this

his 30th performance at this venue. Sam is known as the originator
of the ”Newgrass Style”, which goes nicely with the ”traditional
plus” theme of the festival. In fact, the state of Kentucky passed
legislation naming the three time Grammy winner the ”Father of Newgrass”.
Known for his mandolin, fiddle and his vocals, Sam often collaborates with
other artists and has performed with many other musicians in his years at
Merlefest.

96 Photograph by
Shelly Swanger Photography

The Mavericks embody the concept of Traditional

Plus. They are described as ”eclectic American band, combining neotraditional

country music, Latin, and rockabilly influences.” The group has won many

awards including a Grammy in 1995. Their career spans 3 decades. They split in

2004 but reunited in 2011. They continue to create an eclectic blend of music.

Mandolin
Orange

This duo consists of songwriter Andrew

Marlin (vocals, mandolin, guitar, banjo)

and Emily Frantz (vocals, violin, guitar).

The group is known for ” strong, tight vocal

harmonies and virtuosic musicianship.” The

group has toured throughout the U.S and

Europe, including appearances at Austin

City Limits, South-by-Southwest, Telluride

Bluegrass Festival, Newport Folk Festival,
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Pickathon, and here at Merlefest.

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Steep Canyon Rangers F Friends J special guest
Steve Martin

Steep Canyon Rangers and Friends are a Grammy winning band
from Brevard, NC. Formed, in 2000, the band became widely known
in 2009 when they began their collaboration with Steve Martin. The
group toured widely as a quintet before beginning this collaboration
and becoming a sextet. They continue to perform with Steve Martin,
and on their own. Use the code to the left to listen to their Tiny Desk
Concert for NPR.

Bela Fleck F

Abigail Washburn

This duo teamed up for
2016’s Grammy winning
album, Bela Fleck and
Abigail Washburn. It
won the award for Best
Folk Album.

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Elephant Revival

Elephant Revival’s particular blend of music is often referred
to as ”transcendental folk.” It’s a blend of Celtic music,
traditional music, original folk music, bluegrass and indie rock.
The band has announced that they are taking an indefinite hiatus, and
have canceled the majority of their remaining shows. Fortunately, they
aren’t canceling their Merlefest appearance, so this may be the last
chance for North Carolinians to see them live for awhile.

Merlefest has an incredible number of
acts. We were curious to hear them before
the festival, so we’ve compiled a collection

to give a listen. If you don’t have a QR
reader, you can download one at your
phone’s app store, then just scan the code
to hear a song from the band. Immerse

yourself in the experience!