Issue #10

Winter hiking in the
Black Mountains



THE BEST TICKET IN TOWN!

for show tickets or information
CALL 828•328•2283 OR VISIT

hickorytheatre.org

30 Third Street NW ▪ Hickory, NC 28601

Live Theatre. Well Crafted.

Spring Concert
• March 22, 2020 at Corinth Reformed

Church, Hickory:“Singing Under the
Sails” Pop’s Concert
• May 17 (May 31 rain date) at 6 pm -
downtown Hickory

www.hickorychoralsociety.org
828-322-2210

The Hickory Tree:

Making Hickory’s Furniture
Heritage Accessible for Everyone

For ten years, JD and Meredith Ross have owned and operated The
Hickory Tree. As Hickory’s furniture industry has rebounded, it’s
also gotten a good deal more up-scale, and many of the people
living in Hickory can’t afford the quality furniture produced here.
JD and Meredith noticed this problem and set out to
solve it. Their goal has always been to bring the bounty of
Hickory’s furniture industry to the residents of the town.

In the last 10 years, the consignment store has become an important part of
the community, and a landmark on Old Lenoir Road. Over 3,500 consignors
have trusted the store and the Ross family to sell their furniture, art, and other
items. Customers trust the store as well, and walk in the door expecting quality.

When you arrive at the Hickory Tree, you can expect to find high-end furniture
beautifully styled and nestled in with antiques and unique decorative items,
all at a price point that is fair for cosigner and customer. The styling is an
important part of the appeal. Most consignment stores display items on
shelves without much concern for design. The Ross family knows that
presentation matters. It’s easier to imagine a piece in your home when
you can see it displayed with lamps, furniture and other nice
touches. When it’s easier to imagine a piece
in your house, you are more likely to buy it!

Furniture consignment of this kind is a service
that was needed here, and had been going
unfilled for some time, since a similar store
had closed in the same location. The merchandise at
Hickory Tree turns over quickly as new consigners join
and purchases are made. You can always expect
something you haven’t seen before, and the longer
an item stays in the store, the deeper it is discounted.

Hickory Tree owners JD and Meredith
Ross in their store

JD and Meredith also have a vision for their neighborhood. Old Lenoir Road, they say,
is filled with potential and could be the next great arts district. They have taken a
leadership roll in making that vision a reality. They have worked with community leaders
to ensure that the neighborhood was not left out of plans for city improvements. They’ve
also been working on branding and a new name for the neighborhood. “Old Lenoir
Road” doesn’t feel right for what residents are envisioning. They like “Olle,” a shortening
of OLd LEnoir that feels youthful and artistic. We believe they will stay at the forefront
of the movement to turn that area of Hickory into something unique and thriving.

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Plan your visit & experience our

Waldensian Heritage

“WherethteheMPoiuendtmaoinnst” Meets

Visit Our Historic Attractions

Waldensian Heritage Museum
Trail of Faith

Waldensian Winery
Valdese Lakeside Park
OCP Community Theatre
Old Rock School Auditorium
Rock School Art Galleries
P&W Railroad Museum

Explore Downtown

Public Art & Parks
Local Dining & Shopping

shophickorytree.com

831 Old Lenoir Road
Hickory, NC 28601

(828) 324-1655

North Carolina

828.879.2129 visitvaldese.com

Strong Life
Ministries
by Claudia Ward-Eller

When you think of a “strong life”, what comes to mind? For Pastor John Hays it’s
about having the courage to keep on trying, even when life deals bitter blows. Hays is
currently working to develop Strong Life Ministries whose “mission, duty, and purpose
is to address, educate, coordinate, and provide aid and relief to those in poverty and
homelessness.”
Strong Life Ministries works to offer a men’s transitional housing program to provide an
opportunity for those who have been oppressed by poverty to learn to live independently.
This live-in program will focus on the participant’s spiritual walk, employment, financial
planning and long term goals.
As Hays explains, “People have misconceptions towards the homeless because they
don’t see them as individuals who have a story but rather just a problem for our area.

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Instead, if we look at them as someone’s son or daughter, brother or sister, father
or mother—if we see them as a close friend caught up in that situation, would our
perspective still be the same?”

When asked how to measure success, Hays is clear: “Success in homeless ministry is
measured one life at a time and one step at a time. It is seeing someone transition from
living in a tent to staying at the local shelter instead. It’s helping someone get a bus ticket
home to a better support base of friends, family or work, even if it’s in another state.

To see someone get a job who has been looking so hard for one, to have an addict
come to you and admit for the first time they have a problem and need help. See a man
purchase transportation when he hasn’t had an independent way of traveling in years.
That’s how you measure success.

Mostly, for us though, with Strong Life Ministries, it’s helping people in difficult times
of life that could happen to any of us realize God still loves them. To help them realize
there are many, even strangers, willing to show such a love all around our area.”

Hays, who grew up on a cattle farm in south Mississippi and went to college to play
football is no stranger to the idea of strength and courage. After graduating he spent a
year in New York City ministering to the homeless. He came to Hickory in 2006 to help
plant his current church. A power lifter and “strong man” in his own right, Hays’ focus
is not on himself or his achievements but as a quiet force for good.

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

[email protected]

Beginnings— eventually a new idea presented itself.
Life House Rescue Mission Pastor Hays remembers:

It started with a pot of coffee and “One day, one of our homeless friends
conversation. Laughing, talking, sharing said it would be great if we had a place
moments and connection with a friend. where we could do this more than once
Doesn’t exactly sound like the way to a week. From this conversation the Lord
start a local homeless ministry. And yet laid it on my heart to pursue a small
that’s the way it began for Hays. house for us to obtain. The following
week, a homeless friend of ours came
“A member of my church came to me to me with a name and number of a man
with a compassionate heart back in 2008. who owned a home near the Salvation
They told me ‘my
father and I notice Army in Hickory.”
a lot of homeless
people when driving Hays had no idea
down the road, what how to make the
can we do for them?’ dream a reality
I said to take them because even
some coffee and though the owner
start a conversation” was willing to help
remembers Hays. the vision by selling
the house that had
In addition to leading been in his family for
his congregation, generations, there
Hays followed his was one catch--
own advice and with “We knew this was
some friends and a far-fetched idea
church members because we had no
started reaching out with purpose. money to fund it.”

“This seemingly simple act spread and Then, miraculously, after sharing the
grew into a weekly coffee and devotional financial need for the purchase, a single
time at a local park where we engaged gift came in to pay for the property in
the homeless to talk and pray for them honor of two local families. On April 13,
on a personal level.” 2013, after much hard work to restore
the house and make it ready as a day
As word spread about the coffee and shelter, The Life House Rescue Mission
fellowship, Hays began telling others opened as a place of refuge for those in
about items that were needed by the need to connect to resources in the area.
homeless and people donated items like
jackets and batteries to help. The Life House offers hospitality to those
who are experiencing some of the most
The support did help, and word spread trying moments in their lives. Pastor
in the homeless community about this John and volunteer staff extend an ear
pastor and his group of people willing to listen and provide encouragement.
to listen. More people stopped by the The goal is to give direction to help those
park for coffee and conversation until take a successful next step in seeing
their lives put back together.

Growing—
Strong Life Ministries

Working with community leaders, Hays is excited by the next phase with the Strong Life
Ministries program. As others hear about Strong Life Ministries, Hays says the momentum is
growing.

“We’re creating a nonprofit to serve as the organizational basis for Strong Life Ministries. Lots
of people in this community do have a heart to help those less fortunate, they’re just searching
for a direction and way to get involved. It’s humbling to have so many people come alongside
to help with this project.”

Hays and his wife Stephanie, who teaches at Catawba Valley Community College and helps
with Strong Life, live in Mountain View with their two small children. Hays is pastor of New Life
Authentic Christian Community in Hickory.

To learn more about Strong Life Ministries and ways to connect with the organization and the
Life House Rescue Mission, go to www.stronglifenc.org.

fD



The Fishing List list and that no one, especially God, is interested
in keeping track of wrongs. We seem to do a good
By Heather Wood Davis enough job keeping track of everyone else’s sins
these days, I doubt God would need any help.
As I write this, we are preparing for Christmas. After all, I think consequences have a way of
This year one of my girls has become rather playing out in numerous ways.
obsessed with the idea of Santa’s naughty list.
She has pestered me, asking if this person or But the naughty list leads me to a story in the
that person might be on the list—thinking of New Testament on fishing. Bet you didn’t see that
first of her younger sister and her infractions coming, right? Preacher win! Well in Matthew,
and then moving to her classmates who were Mark and Luke, there’s a very similar story of
called down that day. She racked her brain for what is known as Jesus calling the first disciples. A
characters from books and movies whose bad newly baptized and spirit-filled Jesus is looking for
behavior might warrant the addition of their followers and he sees brothers, Simon (Peter) and
name to Santa’s (no doubt) long list. I struggled Andrew in their boats doing what they do, namely,
with her innocent, curious fascination. fishing. In Matthew and Mark’s gospel he sees
the brothers and calls out to them on the water,
One afternoon in the car, after what felt like a “Follow me, and I will make you fish for people.”
barrage of questions and clarifications, I blurted In Luke’s story, Jesus calls out to the fisherman
out, “You know what? There’s no such thing as claiming, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will
the naughty list!” Both of my girls were stunned be catching people.”
into a temporary silence in our back seat.
Parenting win! This no naughty list was new What strikes me in these stories is that Jesus
information and quite contrary to the movies, doesn’t say, “Follow me and I will make you fishers
images and general cultural information of other Jews!” He says, “fishers of people.” Many
provided to them about the proverbial of us remember the verse as, “fishers of men,”
Christmas time behavioral expectations. but regardless how your translation reads, the
inclusivity is the same. Jesus is fishing for disciples
The no naughty list theory brought more to follow him and so that they might be those
questions, so I had to explain myself to them. who are casting nets, far and wide for all kind of
“Everyone deserves a gift at Christmas,” I people—men, women, Jews and Gentiles. You see
explained, “so there really is no naughty list.” Jesus isn’t into lists. He isn’t into making groups of
While I thought this was enough as far as who is in and who is out. He isn’t into saving only
explanations go, they were not satisfied; they the people who are like him.
needed more information. “But what about the
kids who do bad things?” my oldest inquired. Remember that story in Matthew’s gospel where
“Well, I’m sure there are consequences, but he tells a woman who comes to him on behalf of
they still get a gift at Christmas because there her daughter, that he’s only here for the lost sheep
is no naughty list.” “So, Santa is in charge and of Israel? Well she surprises him by proclaiming
says there’s no naughty list?” My youngest some gospel truth and he remembers/realizes
his saving includes everyone (see Matt. 15:21-28).
asked because she’s eager to be the first Fishers of people. God’s kingdom isn’t about a
name removed from said list. Remember nice or a naughty list. Jesus wasn’t born among
I am a pastor, so I’m going to make sure us to only save the nice people. “Those who are
there a theological lesson worked into this well have no need of a physician, but those who
scenario. “God is in charge of Santa,” I are sick; I have come to call not the righteous but
report to them, “and God says everyone the sinners.” (Mark 2:17)
gets a present, even if they have been
bad. Everyone deserves to get a So even though by the time you read this Christmas
gift.” will be a memory, I hope maybe you’ll entertain
the notion that maybe, just maybe there isn’t a
The fact is, I really wholeheartedly naughty list. There is no need to ‘better watch out’
believe this. I don’t think there and hope your name makes the cut; there is no
need for anyone to worry about what list they are
is a naughty list, not one that on. We’re all on the fishing list. You and I lumped
Santa or God keeps. My in with all people, that’s who God is willing to fish
framework, foundation, for. We are those who God is willing to wait on,
beliefs, everything that and look for, to catch in a net of love and mercy.
gives me a way of
being and making Frankly I’d much rather be on the fishing list.
sense in the Wouldn’t you?
world, believes
that there is
no naughty

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coming in 2020, the event center we’ve been dreaming of:

The Nest @ Steele’s Farms

Imagine having an event center at a stunning location
in Taylorsville, NC. Check our and for updates.

Coming in 2020

11H6istorical Mill-work keeps house authentic.

RESPECT YOUR HOUSE’S

History

by Donna Steele Photography by Jon Eckard

Keeping with the era of a home is such a critical part of any remodel.
Researching the history of the home is a good place to start. Find out when
the house was built, then try to stay true to that time-frame for the remodel.

In this shot, you see the stunning mill-work. This was used as a cornerstone
of the design. All other parts of the room were updated, while this detail was
preserved. The lighting was changed and the ceiling was painted a beautiful
and modern greige (a blend of gray and beige) color. The fireplace was also
updated with marble, although the woodwork remained the same.

The home feels vintage, but with a modern touch. Staying true to the era of an
older home keeps the coziness but does not detract from the modernization.

Always remember: old places have soul.

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Worth the Drive
By Amy McCauley

Think you know Hickory? Think again.

Named one of the Best Small Cities in America by National Geographic Travel in
2018, Hickory has evolved beyond its furniture-industry roots to become a haven for
people interested in crafting a good life for themselves, their community, and future
generations. Businesses are locating there, people are moving there, and if being
ranked 16th in the state for tourism is any indicator, visitors are flocking there, too.
Perhaps it’s because folks are realizing what locals have known all along: the Greater
Hickory Metro area has a lot to offer. Consider the spectacular outdoor recreation,
locally-made goods, breweries and distilleries, seriously good local food, a vibrant
arts scene, more than 50 parks, and three lakes… all within less than an hour’s drive
from Charlotte.

While similar offerings can be found in Charlotte and other cities and towns, it’s
Hickory’s uniquely local vibe of craftsmanship and connectedness that help make it
a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike. In Hickory, the good life isn’t just
about having a lot to do. It’s also about how you experience them.

It’s about tasting locally-made bourbon and meeting the farmer and distiller who
make it. It’s about admiring a folk art exhibit and starting your own collection by
local artists. It’s about attending a film festival and discussing the films afterwards
with like-minded enthusiasts. It’s about the epic stories you’ll share over beers after
shredding miles of mountain bike trails. It’s about eating like an insider and bragging
about all the hidden gems you found when you return home.

When looking for something to do in Hickory, locals are advised to “think like a
tourist.” The Hickory Metro Convention Center and Visitors Bureau is always a great
place to start, be it learning about great places to visit on their social media feeds or
upcoming events at www.visithickorymetro.com. To get your bearings, take a bird’s
eye virtual tour of Hickory and surrounding landmarks at www.myhky.com.

You can also ask around. Consider this advice from Ariel Allensworth, a local IT
specialist and Army veteran who moved to Hickory from Fayetteville, North Carolina
with his wife Jeanette Le Roux, a recently relocated South African.

“Our favorite thing about living here is that any day you can leave the house, go do
something, and you can never get tired of doing things because there’s so much,”
said Allensworth. “Sometimes we’ll go to Taste Full Beans coffee shop downtown and
sit there for a few hours, maybe reading or working on our computers. Other times
we’ll walk around and get some wine downtown, or stop in for trivia night at Craft
Beer Cellar. There’s endless things to do and time to do them, which has probably
the greatest impact on our lives because it’s creating memories.” Find more stories
from locals at www.makinglivingbetter.com.

Just when you think you have Hickory figured out, you realize you’ve only just
scratched the surface. Every visit to Hickory is different, because there’s always
something new to experience.

Looking for something to do tomorrow? Next weekend? Hickory will make it worth
the drive. Again.

Outsmart Diabetes With

Self-Management Education

“Having a disease without a cure means having to learn how
to live with it every day. This can feel pretty overwhelming
when you are first diagnosed with diabetes,” says Annette
Crombie, Catawba Valley Medical Center (CVMC) Diabetes
Education Coordinator. “That’s where we come in! Think of
us as your diabetes resource and education center.”

Education is the key to successfully managing your diabetes
and the team at CVMC’s Center for Diabetes Control will
provide you with essential knowledge, tools and skills to
control your blood sugar and live a healthy life. We offer a
number of educational programs to help you learn how to
control and manage the effects of the disease within your
choice of a supportive classroom or one-on-one setting.
A broad array of diabetes-related topics are covered
including:

• Nutritional Therapy
• Stress Management
• Exercise
• Complications Associated with Uncontrolled Diabetes
• Blood Glucose
• Sick Day Management
• Diabetes Medications
• Diabetes Self Management
• Intensive Insulin Therapy Programs

“Our most popular and comprehensive program is the
Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) class,”
explains Annette. “This group is specifically for adults with
Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. There are four classes within
the program and a new program starts every month.” With
classes offered both during daytime and evening hours,
the program aims to meet the needs of any patient. All
classes are taught by experienced healthcare professionals,
including certified diabetes educators, registered nurses,
and registered dietitians - all of whom have received
training in the most current methods of treating diabetes.

Are you ready to outsmart diabetes? Call our Center for
Diabetes Control at 828.326.3442 to schedule your first
class today. Visit us online at www.catawbavalleyhealth.
org/Medical-Center/Services/Diabetes for a complete list
of programs offered through our diabetes center.

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WtheeacrreeaEtcikvaertdeaPmhotthoagtrbarpihnigcs,
you Foothills Digest.
We are visual story tellers.
Let us help tell your story.

www.eckardphotographic.com
828-475-1323

WAVY CURLY KINKY

By Amber Bryson of Kelly’s Hair Company

Curls, curls, curls! Is this your trademark? Maybe it’s the first thing people notice about
you? Are your curls something you love or something you loathe? Either way did you know
that 65% of the population has naturally curly or wavy hair. For some of us we have no
idea what kind of curl could be accomplished with the proper care and use of products.
For so long straight styles were on trend but curly hair has taken over. Today we are going
to celebrate the imperfect perfection of naturally curly hair!!!

Wavy locks: these are not completely curly and not completely straight. This type of curl is
very easy to take care of. You can easily let you hair air dry or use a diffuser to bring out
that gorgeous beachy s shape. Typically wavy hair lays close to head and is not plagued
by humidity. The one thing you have to be careful of is to not use any products that are
too heavy. Doing so could cause your tresses to lay flat and heavy and cause your waves
to look more straight. Using a light weight gel or mousse is perfect. Whether fine, coarse,
thin or thick wavy curls can be a delightful way to show off your natural beauty.

Curly hair: is it a blessing or a curse? Having a curl routine can definitely make you love
your hair and make it easier for you to maintain. One mistake you do not want to do is
shampooing everyday. Curly hair is naturally porous and needs moisture and the natural
oils our scalp produce. Shampoos with sulfates and harsh ingredients can strip your
locks of these important components leaving your hair frizzy and unmanageable. I highly
recommend a shampoo that is a cream that adds moisture while cleansing at the same
time. You can never have too much moisture so because of that doing a deep condition is
a must. Using a salon quality mask is important as it will penetrate your hairs layer helping
to make it shiny and healthy! Ask your stylist to help you customize a product routine so
that you are getting your full curl potential. Another great tip is to only comb while in the
shower. If you comb your curls while they are wet it will help to keep your curls together
and have a more uniform look. This is also a great way to reduce frizz. You could even add
all your styling products to your hair while in the shower and save yourself a bit of time.
But be aware when you towel dry your hair make sure and use a teeshirt or a microfiber
fabric so you do not rough up that cuticle.

Kinky: bold, stunning, and voluminous are just a few words to describe this z shape close-
knit curl pattern. If this is what you have then heat is not your friend. Blowdryers and
flatirons can actually weaken your curl. Your best option is to fill up with conditioners and
styling creams and let your curls air dry. Although it can take hours to dry completely this
will allow the products to do their job and not get stripped away. Relaxers are becoming
a thing of the past as women are deciding to embrace their natural beauty instead of
fighting it! A wonderful benefit of having long kinky hair is you can easily put it into a updo
and not have to utilize a million bobby pins to keep it in place. In about 5 minutes you can
have a chic up style appropriate for a date, the gym, work, or any formal outing. Just know
that your hair should always be cut when dry and in its natural curl pattern. These days
there are stylists trained specifically to care for your coils. So be sure and find a specialist
who is educated and trained to help you achieve the most amazing curl experience.

As our culture involves and we become more open-minded it is a great to see people
embrace their natural allure. Everyone of us is unique in our own special way, just like
our curls. Celebrate yourself and your curls and hopefully you can find your perfect curl
routine. It might take some trial and effort but be patient and have fun with your wavy,
curly, kinky hair.

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At Catawba Women’s Center, our qualified
staff of nine physicians is complemented by
the area’s only private midwifery practice,
advanced practice provider care and an
experienced team of nurses, medical assistants,
technologists and administrative staff.

1501 Tate Boulevard SE, Hickory

(828) 322-4140

www.catawbawomenscenter.com

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winter Vitality Surgical Center

Fashion Serving Men and Women for all of your Surgical
Aesthetic needs. Vitality Surgical Center offers a
Classic colors and cuts abound this wide array of services including Vaser-Lipo, facial
season. If you only purchase one item plastics and more.
this year, a good choice would be tailored
wool pants that will last for years. Chunky 828-322-1498.For more information contact
cashmere knits are also all the rage.
Leather remains ever-popular, especially
in tones of warm browns.

Monochrome looks, especially in warm
neutral colors, are quite popular on the
street this year. Choose a color like Sugar
Almond (the sixth color below) and use it
in each piece you wear. You’ll make a bold
entrance anywhere you go.

If you’ve ever wanted to own statement
jacket, this is your year. Anything goes
and the brighter the better for this type
of outwear! Have fun with it!

Color Palette

Neutral Color Palette

Vitality Anti-Aging Center &
Medical Spa strives to help
you feel your best on the
inside and look your best on
the outside to achieve a sense of
complete well being that will help
you soar.

(828) 322-1498 www.vitalitymedicalspa.com

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Protecting Your Skin From Winter Woes

By Grace McLaurin, PA-C

Winter is not a time to relax your skincare routine, of the population are allergic to this product.
in fact it may be the perfect time to step it up! This ingredient should never be in products that
With higher elevations, colder temperatures, and are not intended to damage the skin.
lower humidity in the winter here in the foothills, Fragrances should always be avoided in skincare.
a good skincare regimen is more important than The two most common are linalool, a turpine
ever. Many believe summer sun exposure is alcohol, derived from termites and limonene,
harsher on our skin, but nothing could be farther also classified as a turpine. These are the most
from the truth. The UVB rays are weaker, so you common cause of allergic and chemical irritation
may not sunburn as easily. But the drying and in all skincare products. With this irritation the
aging toxic UVA rays are just as strong as ever. skin loses the integrity of its natural lipid barrier.
This combined with colder and dryer air, create Kathon (methylchloroisthiazone/
many issues that contribute to aging of the skin. methylsothiazolinone) is a powerful preservative
While you may not be at the pool, lake or beach, and antibacterial. It is very popular in many
SPF is necessary daily. Many wonder exactly products, including very high end products. This
what SPF is. It is the sun protection factor you product was the 2013 Contact Allergen of the
get if you applied a shot glass full of SPF to your year. It should be avoided at all costs. It is very
face. So an SPF if 30 means you may remain disruptive to the skin. Read labels on skincare
in the sun 30 times longer than with nothing and shampoos for any of the three names this
at all. Most of us don’t use that much, so the ingredient may be listed as.
protection factor is generally not what is on
the bottle. When shopping for SPF there are Not surprising to most, Parabens are a no-no
a few important factors to look for other than due to their potential to have a low carcinogenic
just the SPF number. There are two basic types potential and high propensity to cause irritation.
of SPF, chemical and physical. Chemical blocks They contain phenol, which is cytotoxic; it kills
contain ingredients such as Benzophenone- cells. When killing cells it can kill the good and
3(oxybenzone), Avobenzone, Octinoxate, the bad. When reading a label, any ingredient
Phthaltes, and more. These chemicals are ending in paraben should be avoided. Parabens
absorbed into the skin and create a chemical also disrupt the protective barrier in the skin and
change in the UV rays which are then released some, such as, Methylparaben can convert to a
from the skin. They are highly irritating to the toxic reactive oxygen when it is exposed to UV
skin and most are classified as a hazardous light.
irritants. Physical blocks are superior to chemical
blocks for protection and safety since they are Does your skin feel dry after cleansing? If so it
less likely to create irritation and damage to the is probably due to Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. SLS
protective barrier naturally found in our skin. is an emulsifier and creates lather as well. It is
Examples of physical blocks are products that found in many cleansers, soaps, and shampoos.
contain zinc and titanium dioxide. It is a strong irritant and is even used to
Another aspect of skincare to look for is create inflammation in the skin when testing
ingredients that you should avoid. These are anti-inflammatory products. It destroys the
ingredients that cause allergic or chemical protective lipid (fat) layer in the skin and creates
irritation. Both allergic and chemical irritation dryness and irritation.
can be drying, irritating and ultimately damaging
to skin. One of these ingredients is propylene Winter weather can be beautiful and exhilarating,
glycol. Propylene Gycol is a solvent that is but it can wreak havoc on your skin. Use good
similar to alcohol. It is found in many skincare skincare and protection, then you can enjoy the
products and is often used as a carrier for active winter wonderland we often experience here in
ingredients. It works by dissolving the protective the foothills of NC. Great skincare does not have
lipid barrier. It also is used as a preservative and to be outrageously expensive, but can be harder
to help products not dry out or form a “skin” on to find. If you feel your skin isn’t looking as good
top due to its affinity for water. More than 10% as you think it should, start with the labels. The
label may give you all of the answers you need.

Demand Labeling
of all Allergens

My name is Katie Bryant, I am the mom of three precious little blonde boys.
The oldest has Celiac disease and the youngest has a life threatening peanut
allergy. Over the summer we almost lost the toddler to a single bite of a
popcicle, a popcicle I had called the company and verified to be safe for him.

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You see as it stands companies only have to disclose allergen information if it is a direct
ingredient, not if there is a possibility of cross contamination. Meaning they can make 100,000
jars of peanut butter, then wash the equipment “to their standards” and make potato chips on
the same machines, then sell the chips without mentioning the possibility of peanuts. This is
a major issue when even a trace amount of peanuts can kill you. Right now, to verify the safety
of an item the consumer has to call every single company about every single product (food,
shampoo, mulch, craft supplies, potting soil, building supplies, toothpaste... everything),
every single time. They are not required to give you the information and many refuse stating
their manufacturing process is proprietary. This is currently completely lawful.

Sitting in my car in my driveway after a trip to the grocery store, tears of exhaustion and
frustration flowing, I saw my boys playing. Running, picking up sticks and dumping sand
out of little trucks. “This is their future,” I remember thinking as I dried it up and climbed
out of the car with my big, heavy bag in tow. Seeing me, my middle son ran up to greet
me. He is 6 and the most energetic of the three Bryant boys. “What's wrong, Mommy?”

“I am just frustrated, baby, the things I went to the store for weren't there so now I'll have to do
all that work all over again for different brands.” His answered changed me, probably forever.

“What would you tell us to do?”

I wouldn't tell them to continue call companies begging for information about
their processing. I wouldn't tell them “this is just the way things are”. I certainly
wouldn't tell them to accept the things they cannot change. I'd tell them to dig
in and change it. I would tell them they have a voice and it matters, to use that
voice to advocate and, I would tell them not to stop until they changed the rules.
That night I started a petition on Change.org and began sharing it on my social media platforms.
It turns out, quite a few people agree with me and we are tired of playing defense and being told
we don't have the right to know if the food or products on store shelves can kill our children.

I decided I have had enough of my side on the defensive, trying my best to keep my
children safe and begging for information. I decided this broken system isn't good enough.
I decided to do something about it. I am presenting my position to lawmakers in the
Senate and Congress, I have a meeting with the Governor and I am interviewing with news
companies from Charlotte to New York. I am here, making waves and proving you don't
have to be “somebody” to be valuable or to make the changes you want to see in the world.

I've been called “little” because in the political world I am no one. I've been called
determined. I've been called “the Erin Brokovich of allergies”. I've been guaranteed
a voice in the Senate by a man who laughingly told me “this isn't my wheelhouse,
but I'd rather support you than run against you because I didn't”. I am here to tell
you that if you find something unacceptable it is time to stop thinking someone
should do something about it and push up your sleeves and do it yourself.

Want to help me make this proposed law a reality? Find me on social media or email me at katie.
[email protected], sign and share my petition, and call your representatives.

Eventfully Yours. . .


I am recently engaged and helping my fiancé plan our upcoming wedding. While
I enjoy talking about the wedding I am very excited about my bachelor party.
What are some of my options for a great bachelor party in the Foothills of NC?

The late fall, winter and spring in the Foothills of NC offers an array
of outdoor activities for a groom and his groomsmen.

The late fall and early winter season in our area is perfect for fly fishing.
You may want to touch base with one of the fly fishing companies
located in Boone, Blowing Rock or even Asheville to see what they
may offer for a long weekend with the boys. These trips often include
assistance with lodging, a private guide, equipment rentals and more
for your outing. This type of a peaceful getaway will be just what you
guys may need to escape for the everyday bustle of life.

In the winter NC is known for our numerous ski resorts and areas to
enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery. Even if you are not a seasoned
ski professional the NC slopes are conducive to many skill levels.
You may consider renting a cabin or chalet through a resort or even
through a vacation rental site. Within driving distance of the slopes
you will be sure to find great restaurants, bars and more for your
entertainment needs.

Looking to hit the course! Plan a golf weekend at one of the many
beautiful courses in our area. Consider renting a vacation home
located in the center of a number of golf courses. Play two or three
over the weekend while enjoying the beautiful scenery and comradery
of your friends.

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, designed and directed weddings and events for the past 18 years
in the Foothills of North Carolina.

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Steele’s Home Market is bringing amazing things to
Northwest Hickory. They offer furniture from their
exclusive lines as well as 500 other vendors. Other items
in the store include candles, throws, robes and lounge-
wear from Barefoot Dreams, home goods and gifts.
They also offer design services from their team Steele’s
Design. Call or stop in today and get started on cozying
up your home for Fall. Pictured here is the Steele Team
with Kathryn Dennis of Southern Charm, who is a partner
for their children’s furniture line Kensie + Saint.

facebook.com/steeleshomemarket instagram.com/steeleshomemarket (828) 322-5566

11 25-26
Happy Quilting and Needle
Birthday Elvis!
Art Extravaganza!
Spindale
Featuring Travis Statesville
Shop for needle art supplies
Powell.
and newest fabrics.
828.286.9990
704.376.2531

2 14
Groundhog Day The Adventures

Celebration of Sherlock
Holmes
Chimney Rock
Will Greta the Lenoir
Groundhog see her JE Broyhill Civic Center

shadow? 828.726.2404

800.277.9611

14 21
Fly Fishing Rhonda Vincent and
Tournament
The Rage

Boone Mount Airy
duesouthoutfitters. At the Historic Earl

com/blog Theatre.

132 828.355.9109 336.786.7998

25 25 31-2/16
Sam Bush Kruger Brothers Raisin in the Sun

Mount Airy Ashe County Hickory
Dedicated to the is Located at the Ashe At Hickory Community
At the Historic Earl Theatre. Check website
Civic Center.
Theatre. for all dates.
336.846.2787
336.786.7998 hickorytheatre.org

15 21, 22, 23 25
The Earls of Bluegrass Appalachian State
Leicester & Jerry First Class Old-Time Fiddlers

Douglas Asheville Convention
Local bluegrass artists
Mount Airy at the Crowne Plaza. Boone
www.surryarts.org
828.275.8650 fiddle.appstate.edu
336.786.7998

27-28 27.28.29 28-89
Catawba Valley Catawba Valley Gem Heafner Williams
Pottery and Antiques Vocal Competition
and Mineral
Festival Lincolnton
Hickory At the Lincoln
Hickory “Treasures in Your Own Cultural Center.
115 vendors!
Backyard.” 704.732.9055

828.322.3943 828.303.1448

If the Mountains Were a Church

Eric S. Welborne

If the mountains were a church
The clouds would be the steeple
The rolling hills, the hick’ry pews

And treetops be the people
Christmas trees like congregants

And none would misbehave
Chosen for their yearly work
And summits be the knave
The mist and fog would be the prayers
To those who humbly kneel
And troubled minds would freely rise
Then cancer daze would heal
Snow upon the hoarfrost leas

Adorn the humble choir
With chalky robe, you splendid soul

The smoke would see the fire!

134

From The Secrets of Angling

John Dennys in the year 1613

Of angling and the art thereof I sing
What kind of tools it doth behove to have
And with what pleasing bayt a man may bring

The fish to bite within the watry wave.
A work of thanks to such as in a thing
Of harmless pleasure have regard to save
Their dearest soules from sinne and may intend
Of pretious time some part thereon to spend.

“The Lord is happiest when his children are at play.”
Charles Kuralt

136

Kuralt at White’s Creek
Bob Timberlake

138 “Blue Ridge Winters”
by Stephen



Steele’s Construction is known for the award-winning new builds and full remodels but
we can also update your amazing home with new lighting and countertops, as well as
new knobs and pulls on your cabinetry for an amazing update, just like the transformation
you see here. Call our ofices today to start the process of updating your home!

(828) 322-8011

General Contractor License #74498 steelesconstructionllc.com

NCHBA STAR AWARDS
Best Room Remodel/Renovation, Best Addition,

Best Whole House Remodel/Renovation

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