Hickory Living July 2020

Complimentary July 2020

On the Cover

CARDWELL CHIROPRACTIC aSSOCIATES Caring About Your Health & Happiness page 12

On the . . . n i a g A Road page 19

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

• Landscapes • • Hardscapes • Water Features • • Outdoor Lighting • Garden Maintenance •

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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contents

JULY 2020

MacAdam Smith Publisher mac@oasisluxuryhomes.com (484) 769-7445

FEATURES 12 • COVER STORY Cardwell Chiropractic Associates Caring About Your Health & Happiness

Kathy Wheeler Design & Advertising Sales kathylivingmagazine@gmail.com (828) 238-3224

ON THE ROAD AGAIN...

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20 • Road Trips

Driveable Destinations To Help

You Re-plan Your Summer Getaway 22 • Staying At Home, On The Road

People Turning To RVs For A Safe Way Out 24 • Tech Driven

How Modern Drivers Benefit From Self-Driving Innovations– While Still Driving

Sharon Simpson Advertising Director sharon@lncurrents.com (704) 677-9159

Linda B. Wilson Advertising Sales lindalivingmagazine@gmail.com (704) 657-0237

IN THIS ISSUE

22 Hickory

LIVING 10225 Hickorywood Hill Ave., Unit A Huntersville, NC 28078 (484) 769-7445 HickoryLiving@gmail.com

www.HickoryLivingMagazine.com 4

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

8 • Welcome To The July Issue 10 • What’s Cooking Summer Seafood Meals

Hickory Living reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing. Submissions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Hickory Living assumes no responsibility or liability for the information, services, products, claims, statements, accuracy, or intended or unintended results of any advertiser, editorial contributors, company, professional corporation, business or service provider herein this publication. All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

Don Forrest Advertising Sales donlivingmagazine@gmail.com (828) 244-6538

contributors

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kristie Darling • Aaron Garcia Kathy Wheeler

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Shane Greene Photography

CARDWELL CHIROPRACTIC ASSOCIATES

Celebrating 30 Years!

Dr. Cardwell’s educational and clinical philosophy is based on Vitalism–the understanding and principles that all organisms in the universe are conscious self-developing, self-maintaining and self-healing.

The concept of Vitalism is foundational to the entire concepts of health and wellness in human beings. Our bodies work hard to express health, to maintain health and to recover from illness or conditions that threaten one’s health. Chiropractic is the foundation for Vitalism.

Dr. Cardwell has and will continue to practice pure Chiropractic. He has pledged to his community the “ Lasting Purpose”...one that imposes giving out of my own abundance unselfish, spiritual love, compassion and dedicated service to my fellow man.

Offering:

• Spinal Adjustments • Laser • Ultrasound • Acupunture • X-Rays

Thank you for allowing me to serve you for 30 years!

Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs - 9am-5pm Closed from 12 - 1 Wed - 9am - 12pm

790 U.S. Hwy 70 SW • Hickory | www.cardwellchiro.com | (828) 323-1177

Excellent Root Canal Treatment Starts Here...

KOS ENDODONTICS Alexander Kutuza, D.M.D. Endodontics Specialist

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kutuza by calling:

828-322-8710

935 4th Street Drive, NE, Suite 4 Hickory, NC 28601

Dental Symptoms Root Canal Treatment • Endodontic Surgery • Endodontic Retreatment • Traumatic Dental Injuries • •

4th Street Drive, NE, Suite 4 Hickory, NC 28601 www.kosendodontics.com Open Mon.-Thurs. 8AM to 5PM

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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Welcome to the

July Issue

By Kathy Wheeler

shows online to sell their products and have seen talented musicians performing online for tips as a way to bridge the gap financially until the economy opens back up completely.

Some have even reported doing better than normal because they’ve been thinking outside the box. As Americans, we have always been resourceful problem solvers! Let your entrepreneurial spirit soar!

Families will be getting together to celebrate July 4th, having cookouts, picnics, and watching neighborhood fireworks, just in smaller groups. I’ve heard of close-knit neighbors sitting in cul-de-sacs and driveways, socializing with each other while practicing social distancing. In other words, summer fun doesn’t have to stop! This issue of Hickory Living magazine will offer some vacationing ideas—a perfect companion topic for our automotive section. Since many of these ideas require traveling, you will find advertisers in this issue who can service your vehicles in preparation for such excursions.

From the beach to the mountains, there are so many places in North Carolina to explore the outdoors. We feature an article on road trips that your family might enjoy.

Also, check out the article on RV camping.

It seems that sales are up due to COVID-19, with people looking for ways to control their environment while vacationing. If you have wondered what is happening with self-driving automobiles, the article on page 24 will interest you.

©iStockphoto.com | Monkeybusinessimages

Most of the summer concerts and fireworks have been canceled this year, but that doesn’t mean we can’t celebrate Independence Day or take a vacation. We just have to be a little more creative about where and how we do it. Whether it’s fun or business, most people find ways to adapt to the guidelines and still accomplish what they want and need to do.

This month as we celebrate, be thankful for all the freedoms we possess, and work with our neighbors, communities, and government to keep everyone as safe as possible. It’s a great time to learn new technologies in order to continue living and working. It’s more important than ever to support local businesses, and pull together for the good of our community. I’ve been impressed with local retail shops doing fashion 8

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

Hickory Living is proud to feature Cardwell Chiropractic Associates on the cover this month. Dr. Wes Cardwell has been in business for 30 years. While studies show that two-thirds of small businesses last about two years, and only half last for five years, a 30th anniversary is truly something to celebrate!

Congratulations Dr. Cardwell!

We hope you enjoy the July issue and discover some fun ideas for having an exciting summer. Thank you for reading Hickory Living magazine!

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

What's Cooking?!

Summer Seafood Meals

Grilled meals provide a summer escape for many families by offering opportunities to spend moments together while enjoying flavorful dishes. These seafood dishes are healthy, quick, and easy to prepare for your next gathering!

Easy Shrimp Skewers Serves 5

10 wooden skewers soaked in

water for 10 minutes 2 medium zucchinis, cut into

large chunks 2 medium bell peppers (any

color), cut into large chunks 2 red onions, cut into large chunks 1 cup cherry tomatoes 12 ounces cooked shrimp,

peeled, deveined, tails on

olive oil

sea salt, to taste 1 lemon, juice only

Seared Salmon with Mediterranean Salsa

Directions Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

Build skewers by alternating zucchinis, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes and shrimp, pushing ingredients closely together on each skewer.

Brush each with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt, to taste.

Cook skewers about 9 minutes, rotating every 3 minutes until veggies and shrimp are seared but not overcooked. Remove and place on large platter.

Drizzle with lemon juice and serve.

Serves 4-6

2 4-6

1 1

1 1 1/3 1/2 1

tablespoons olive oil salmon filets (about 1-inch thick) sea salt, to taste can chickpeas, drained and rinsed can quartered or chopped artichoke hearts, drained cup diced cucumber cup diced cherry tomatoes cup diced red onion cup crumbled feta cheese handful fresh spinach, chopped balsamic glaze

Directions In skillet over medium-high heat, heat

olive oil. Sear salmon filets 4 minutes. Sprinkle tops of each salmon filet with sea salt, to taste. Flip and cook 4 minutes until barely done. Remove to serving platter.

In medium bowl, make salsa by gently folding together chickpeas, artichoke hearts, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta and spinach.

Sprinkle with sea salt, to taste.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze and spoon salsa over each salmon filet.

Refrigerate leftover salsa.

Recipes courtesy of Annessa Chumbley, RDN, on behalf of the Seafood Nutrition Partnership. Visit eatseafoodamerica.com HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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on the cover

Photos:

Pictured– Dr. Wes Cardwell, Cary Cardwell, Ashley Steele (seated), Cassey McConnell-not pictured.

On the cover– Dr. Cardwell and Cary Cardwell 12

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

CARDWELL CHIROPRACTIC aSSOCIATES Caring About Your Health & Happiness

By Kristie Darling | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

Photo:

Left Dr. Cardwell applying a specific chiropractic adjustment to remove vertebral subluxation syndrome.

Quality of Life — you’ve heard this phrase before? Stop for just a moment and think about what Quality of Life means to you. Would your life change if your health improved? If discomfort no longer kept you from being more active? Would you be more lighthearted if you could do activities you love— playing with your kids or grandkids? Getting your golf game up to par? Taking up walking or running again? Waking up each day feeling your very best? These things are in your control, and there are specific ways to get there. Dr. Wes Cardwell and his team at Cardwell Chiropractic know that many of today’s chronic or debilitating diseases can be avoided or reversed by teaching you how to use prevention, not reaction, in a health crisis. “I truly believe that wellness comes from being proactive toward preventing diseases that keep us from an excellent quality of life,” Dr. Cardwell shared. “The body has an innate ability to regulate all of its functions—it can bring about improved health and a fuller life.”

“For the last 30 years, I have been in love with what I do, where I do it, and who I serve. I can think of no where else I would rather practice than here in Hickory. I really like the people I serve—the socioeconomic spectrum in my practice is fully diverse, and everyone is the same to me—human beings.” Dr. Cardwell’s love for chiropractic is manifest in his dedication to his patients; everyone benefits from his passion and years of experience.

Every day, Dr. Cardwell brings his passion for athletics, fitness, and wellness to share with those who come to him for help with a variety of health issues. His background in body building and personal training gives him a unique perspective on how the body functions and how it can function at its fullest. “I am practicing an art that is as old as humanity; it will continue long after I have gone,” he shared. “You cannot end the science, art, and philosophy of the healing power of HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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the innate intelligence that guides, directs, and controls all healing. I’m just here to assist that.”

DR. CARDWELL’S CHIROPRACTIC APPROACH After completing his undergraduate degree, Dr. Cardwell attended Life University of Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia.

In addition, he has two-year diplomates in acupuncture, meridian therapy, and applied kinesiology. “My mastery is I am a great neuromusculoskeletal diagnostician, which simple means, I can recognize, assess, and diagnose the differences in conditions that may appear similar, but are truly different and each require a totally unique approach. Someone may come in with back pain, but after listening carefully, using tools such as applied kinesiology, orthopedic and neurological evaluations, and in-house x-ray, I might discover their problem is actually gall stones.”

The dictionary says chiropractic is a “system of integrative medicine based on diagnosis and manipulative treatment of misalignments of the joints, especially the spinal column, which cause other disorders by affecting the nerves, muscles, and organs.” Dr. Cardwell does all this and more. His wholebody approach is supported by his personal and clinical understanding of pain, stress, and vitalism—the understanding of the body’s inherent ability to regulate its functions through the central and peripheral nervous systems. “I teach my patients this fundamental understanding—how to think about pain and how not to think about pain. It’s sad to see how misinformed people are about their bodies and its healing capacity. Pain is not your enemy; it’s a function of life that we need in order to experience pleasure.” Dr. Cardwell’s goal is not just to alleviate the pain but to focus on all aspects of daily living—work, sleep, diet, exercise, posture. Maybe, like so many folks today, you have text neck from looking down at your phone all day long? Stress? “I tell patients I don’t care about their pain, instead, let’s focus on function and human performance…that will get us the best results.”

Photos, above, top to bottom: • Cary Cardwell applies class 4 laser, used for any inflammatory process.

• Ashley Steele applies ultrasound with interferential current.

Used for reduction of pain, inflammation, and muscle spasm.

• Education of the chiropractic premise is a key component of Dr. Cardwell’s practice.

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

We all experience pain based on these primary stressors: repetitive motion or injury; psychological stress, as in relationships, depression, finances; chemical stresses like alcohol or drug abuse, OTC medications; and the classic American diet laden with harmful additives. “These stresses cause vertebral subluxation—misalignment of the spine—in all humans,” Dr. Caldwell said. “Once misalignment occurs, without removing it, it causes loss of normal nerve function. This results in issues from headache to foot pain and anywhere in between. A healer’s choice is to prescribe a chemically induced sedative that will wear off OR how about finding the cause and removing it…that is what I do. I diagnose the cause and together we remove it.”

There’s so much more to learn about Dr. Cardwell’s philosophy and his approach to the healing art of chiropractic. I recommend you visit www.cardwellchiro.com.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU? “I’ve known Doc for about 30 years; we’ve played golf together for eight,” Charles Connor told me. He praised Dr. Cardwell and his own remarkable return to his favorite activities.

Charles golfs, runs (15-20 miles a week), and enjoys activities with his three kids. “I’d seen several chiropractors before, but I continued to have back pain. Doc not only does his magic on my back with adjustments and such, he also teaches me how to best manage discomfort. I know the exercises I need to do—I’m religious about doing them—and how to recognize and deal with my life stresses.” Results like Charles’ are common.

Chiropractic isn’t just about back pain. Dr. Cardwell treats “from womb to tomb” and sees patients suffering from auto accidents, carpel tunnel, head and neck pain, pinched nerve and slipped disc, sciatica, scoliosis, stress, whiplash, pregnancy, and many other debilitating conditions. You will receive treatments not only by Dr. Cardwell’s hands-on manipulations but also using cutting edge chiropractic equipment and techniques.

Whether you’re an infant, blue-collar worker, work at a desk all day, a high school athlete, or a senior on Medicare, Dr. Cardwell will take good care of you. He accepts all patients regardless of condition or financial ability to pay. His philosophy is based on the Lasting Purpose: “Giving out of your own abundance: unselfish, spiritual, love, compassion, and dedication to humanity.”

THE TEAM “My best friend and my wonderful wife, Cary Beth, is my anchor and inspiration,” Dr. Cardwell shared. “She’s been my office manager from the start and is certified by the NC Board of Chiropractic Examiners as a certified chiropractic assistant.”

Also CCAs in the practice are Ashley Steele and Cassey McConnell. “We all share the same philosophy and dedication to healing. My team is compassionate and professional all at the same time—I couldn’t do what I do without them.”

Whatever your concerns are about your health, pain, or quality of life, or if you continue to have pain after other treatments, this may be the place you finally find relief. Questions are free, make a call. You will be well served.

Photos, above, top to bottom:

• A spinal decompression procedure for disc syndromes.

• Acupuncture “hoku” master point of the upper extremities

For More Information Or To Schedule An Appointment, Call

CARDWELL CHIROPRACTIC aSSOCIATES 828.323.1177 790 U.S. Hwy 70 SW Hickory, NC www.cardwellchiro.com HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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2020

Best of The FOOTHILLS HickoryLIVING READER’S CHOICE AWARD

Coming in

August

VOTE FOR HICKORY LIVING'S READER'S CHOICE

2020 Best of the FOOTHILLS

Is there a small business that you have enjoyed shopping with or who offered you great customer service? Let them know by voting for your favorites in August! 2020’s Best of the Foothills winners will be announced in our December 2020 issue.

CATEGORIES 1. Auto Repair Services 2. Car Dealer 3. Insurance Company 4. Breakfast 5. Sandwich Shop 6. Fine Dining 7. Golf Course 8. Best Place for Cocktails/Wine 9. Fitness/Gym 10. Aesthetics/Med Spa 18

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

11. Weight Loss 12. Day Spa/Massage/Facials 13. Hair Salon 14. Women’s Boutique 15. Dentist 16. Orthodontist 17. Chiropractor 18. Veterinarian 19. Pet Groomer 20. Law Firm

21. Hardware Store 22. Home Builder 23. Interior Design 24. Landscaper/Lawn Service 25. Nursery 26. Real Estate Agency 27. Consignment/Thrift Store 28. Wedding Venue 29. Jeweler 30. Caterer

On the Road Again...

©iStockphoto.com | Zoran Zeremski

Road trips have always been a favorite American pastime, and a perfect way to avoid large crowds. Our beautiful state provides plenty of nature inspired sightseeing trips you can take with your family or close friends. Pack a picnic lunch and head for the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visit a lake and go paddle boarding.

Take your bikes and hit a trail, or go for a hike. Or, head for the coast in an RV to one of the many beautiful beaches in the Carolinas.

On the following pages are articles to help you plan some short excursions, what’s new in RVs, and an informative article on self-driving cars.

©iStockphoto.com | Jamirae HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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Road Trips Drivable destinations to help you re-plan your summer getaway

By Aaron Garcia

©iStockphoto.com | Sean Pavone

If you’re like millions of other Americans, your summer plans went out the window this spring as Covid-19 gripped our country and forced businesses to halt their operations.

The good news? As the world begins to open back up, albeit with safety precautions in place, so do our options for a quick getaway. No matter what your wanderlust is craving—beach, city, mountains— Hickory is an easy drive from some of the Southeast’s most revered vacation spots. In other words, your summer 2020 memories may not need to be limited to your living room.

It’s important to note that all travelers should stay informed of the latest risks related to Covid-19. Health experts are still urging that Americans avoid travelling if they’ve been exposed to the virus or if they’re not feeling well. We strongly suggest that our readers follow the guidelines of their destinations. With that in mind, here are a few last-minute vacation destinations ideas. Plug one into your GPS and get out of town.

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

Myrtle Beach, SC

Carolina Beach, NC

Whether you know it as The Grand Strand or The Golf Capital of the World, visiting Myrtle Beach is a rite of passage for folks across the Southeast. Newcomers will find an amusement-park-turnedbeach-town with 60 miles of shoreline, a mile-long boardwalk, countless restaurants, and more than 100 golf courses.

Family Friendly?

Yes, as long as your family likes fun. It’s nearly impossible to drive a block without passing something your kids will want to spend money on. Attractions, water parks, world-class beaches, and more than 50 mini-golf courses will give them plenty to choose from.

For the Grownups Simply put, the town is known best for two things: a raucous nightlife and world-class golf. For couples, the town touted more than 1,700 restaurants prior to Covid-19, but it remains to be seen exactly how many of those eateries survived the dip in business. That said, there’s no shortage of options still standing for visitors to choose from.

While Wilmington and the Outer Banks tend to headline North Carolina’s shore scene, up-and-coming Carolina Beach is catching up. A renewed commitment to the town’s boardwalk area has attracted some impressive eateries and big-name hotels. It’s still a local secret, but word is sure to get out. Until then, visitors can enjoy less-crowded beaches and a smalltown vibe.

Family Friendly?

Yes. Aside from the white sand beaches (with lifeguards), Carolina State Beach Park and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher will entertain just about anyone. If not, head to Britt’s Donuts, a mouth-watering mainstay since 1939.

For the Grownups Make no mistake—this is a flip-flop town, so you won’t be picking from local wine tastings or boutique distilleries— head 10 miles north to Wilmington for that. Instead, think dive bars and breweries.

Charleston, SC At just four hours away, if you’re looking

Cherokee, N.C.

for something other than a beach-town vibe, Charleston is the closest of our coastal destinations and worth the trip.

This old southern city is renowned for its culinary scene and deep history that dates back to 1670, the latter of which is on full display throughout the city’s striking architecture. The beaches are clean, the sand is fine, and the water is crystal clear.

Family Friendly?

Yes. The beaches will take center stage, but several museums and the South Carolina Aquarium are there when you need an indoor day.

For the Grownups The Holy City knows how to get down with an eclectic nightlife that perfectly complements its adventurous culinary scene. During the day you can enjoy walking tours, museums, memorials, and much more.

Lake Lure, NC Let’s face it; it’s not as if we’re easily awed by the sight of mountains from our spot at the base of the Blue Ridge range. The 90-minute trek to Lake Lure and neighboring Chimney Rock State Park is certainly worth the gas, however. The site of 1987’s blockbuster, Dirty Dancing, Lake Lure offers a rare treat: a picturesque mountain town in North Carolina without a college. Enjoy some golf, take a dip in the lake, or stroll through the town’s cozy downtown area. It’s close enough for a daytrip, but

you’ll find plenty of rentals if you’re looking to stay the night.

Family Friendly?

Yes, especially if your family enjoys the outdoors. Start with Chimney Rock Park and Hickory Nut Falls.

For the Grownups This bed-and-breakfast community lets its natural surroundings carry most of the entertainment load. You’ll find a few bars and lodges if you need to rehydrate after all that hiking.

Pigeon Forge, TN Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme park may be the landmark, but this small town is a clean-living answer to Las Vegas. You’ll find dinner shows, musical revues, outdoor adventures, and other offerings. A 20-minute drive south to Gatlinburg essentially doubles the fun with a vast list of attractions that actually challenge the world-famous amusement park for visitors. If you’re going for the weekend, make it a long one.

Family Friendly?

Yes. Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country—the waterpark spinoff—are just the start. Along with Gatlinburg, you’ll find a space needle, a sky lift, and even an aquarium in the mountains.

For the Grownups Even the family-friendliest towns need their watering holes, and you’ll have your pick. The area’s whitewater rafting is a popular draw, while the local craft brew and spirits scene is making a name.

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is redefining the term “poker face” by requiring that players wear masks during table games. The move is emblematic of the precautions the resort has taken in order to safely reopen to the public.

The seating is a little more distant, and a random stranger probably won’t kiss your dice for good luck—no matter how often they’re sanitized. But the doors are open. If a casino setting is still a little too risky for your taste, the surrounding area offers some of the finest fishing and camping you’ll find within driving distance of Hickory.

Family Friendly?

Let’s call it family tolerant. The parks and outdoor activities will be great for some kids, but this amusement park is really for the grownups.

For the Grownups The 1,100-room casino resort is the obvious answer here, though history and culture buffs will enjoy the Native American museums and heritage sites.

Asheville, NC If you’ve avoided a trip to Asheville because you’re expecting something like Boone, think again. With an established business community to balance the local college population, Asheville’s personality is a mish-mash of bohemian-hippy, outdoorsy, and off-the-clock banker. The city’s website, exploreasheville.com, said in June that the town’s retail sites were “cautiously reopening,” and its eateries were allowed to “begin serving in their dining areas and patio areas.”

Family Friendly?

Yes. It is a college town, so much of the entertainment is going to skew older.

But it’s a walkable city with fun places to eat and some great outdoor activities.

For the Grownups The River Arts District is a collection of galleries set in an old industrial area.

It pairs well with a wine tasting at one of the area’s vineyards. And, of course, there’s historic Biltmore Estate and Village, now reopened with reduced hours and occupancy.

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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Staying At-Home, On The Road People turning to RVs for a safe way out

By Aaron Garcia

Toilet paper and hand sanitizer may have gotten all the publicity, but RV sales have also experienced a boon as a result of the pandemic. Tom Richards, a member of Carolina Coach & Marine’s marketing team, said the 19-year company had enjoyed two of its best months in recent memory—May and June. Paul Bowman, owner of Sunrise Camping Center, also said he’s been racing to fill orders and has seen a huge uptick in interest from general consumers, much of which he attributed to Covid-19 and the resulting lockdown. “Camping might be the beneficiary,” said Bowman. “I hate saying that, but people are going to look at it as a more germ-free or protected form of vacationing.”

Not so Rough “Recreational vehicle” is an umbrella term that covers anything with both

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

wheels and sleeping accommodations.

The largest and fanciest of these—motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth-wheel trailers—are the ones that probably come to mind, with almost all the comforts of home, just smaller. “Many of the innovations being made by the manufacturers,” said Richards, “have been meant to blur that line.”

Richards said the goal for many customers is to take the edge off roughing it, and manufacturers are obliging. “Think of a hotel suite on wheels,” he said.

Many of the innovations have simply been necessary improvements. Bathrooms are more spacious and comfortable; the stairs are sturdier and less slippery; and hot water heaters actually heat water. The onboard entertainment, though, is designed to be an extension

©iStockphoto.com | mbaysan

of your home. Many models these days either come with wi-fi or are wi-fi ready.

Bluetooth compatibility is also common. You can stream while next to a stream.

Other innovations are geared toward keeping you on the road. Solar panels allow owners to recharge their batteries without having to find a plug. You can even find models with hookups for a washing machine and dryer, along with space for a full-sized fridge. “People want to see the world, and they want to travel, but they don’t necessarily want to camp,” said Richards.

Safe Travels “So far, lockdown-related interest has resulted in a surge of entry-level customers looking for smaller models that can be towed by their existing trucks, SUVs,

or minivans,” said Bowman. That often includes everything from mid-sized travel trailers to the smaller, two-person, teardrop trailers. “Younger couples don’t seem to care about the big stuff right now,” said Bowman. “We’re selling a lot of what we call ‘beds in a box.’”

Marketplace yielded 134 options for preowned RVs/campers for sale within 40 miles of Hickory. For those looking for the adventure without the investment, Outdoorsy.com connects people with RV owners who are willing to rent out their rigs. Sort of an Airbnb for RVs.

Many of these smaller models are typically more compact but expand to create spacious interiors once they’re in place. You’ll find beds and often a small fridge and stovetop. While these units are more advanced and spacious than ever before, Bowman can’t credit their technological innovations for the strong numbers. “There is a whole new customer who is really concerned,” said Bowman. “They really want to go somewhere, they’ve been locked up for a while, and this seems like a really safe way to do it.”

Setting up Camp

Not surprisingly, social media is all over the trend. A recent search on Facebook

Figuring out where to put your new RV is more complicated than simply finding a flat patch of land. RV owners typically look for one of three solutions: campgrounds, RV parks, or drydocking.

Those looking for a more rustic experience typically explore campgrounds.

State and federal park systems have some amazing spots across the country and often at rates well below what you’ll find at privately owned options like RV parks. The downsides are that reservations can fill up well in advance for key dates, and the individual spots often don’t have the power and water con-

nections you’ll need for a long stay. The scenery and privacy, though, more than make up for it.

The same can be said for drydocking, which refers to camping without any hookups. The amount of legal drydocking spots is scarce, though, so this often applies to staying in the parking lot of a large retailer such as Walmart or Camping World, both of which allow overnight stays in select locations.

Finally, RV parks are more like bringyour-own-cabana resorts. Generally pricier than campgrounds, visitors enjoy amenities such as pools, laundromats, playgrounds, and more.

Wherever they go, Bowman said he’s pleased that people are finding some relief by exploring RV ownership. “It could be a boost and provide people an outlet to feel safe,” he said.

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Tech-Driven How modern drivers benefit from self-driving innovations – while still driving

By Aaron Garcia

It was just a few years ago that our steering wheels’ days seemed to be numbered. Tales of self-driving technology and the ever-growing list of companies racing to perfect it had created an innovation tsunami that was barreling toward our roadways. A 2015 article from Forbes magazine predicted there would be entire highway lanes dedicated to autonomous vehicles by 2020. Other experts imagined long-haul routes on rural roads being automated within the same timeframe.

Surely those flying cars from the Jetsons wouldn’t be too far behind, right? Say, by 2025 or so?

Not so much. As of July 2020, self-driving cars still are more sci-fi than streetlegal. It’s not that the concept has run out of gas; companies such as Honda, Audi, Tesla, Google’s Waymo, Uber, Nissan, Volvo, and General Motors, among others, all have been actively developing their own solutions for bringing auto-pilot to the road.

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So, why do new cars still come with steering wheels?

Learner’s Permit For the uninitiated, self-driving cars are just that—vehicles that drive themselves. Similar to your GPS, but the car makes the turns, too. The theory is that sensors aboard our vehicles—lasers, radar, sonar, cameras, or all of the above—will interface with the surrounding environment to make turns, avoid collisions, and deliver its cargo (you) to whatever destination you enter. The idea gained steam in the early 2000s and was popularized by Elon Musk after the tech billionaire began discussing plans for his electric cars at Tesla.

Early generation prototypes soured the positive buzz, though, after several road accidents (some fatal) were at least partly attributed to autonomous technology.

Several towns, cities, and all of Arizona even went so far as to ban the testing of self-driving vehicles on their roadways.

While the aforementioned companies

are still pouring money into research and development, the widespread consumer curiosity seems to have cooled considerably.

That doesn’t mean we’re not already seeing the advancements right now, noted Shawn Mull, department head for the Automotive Systems Technology department at Catawba Valley Community College. “Self-driving—that stuff is coming,” said Mull. “But I think of it as a buildup of what’s been going on for years with cars and computer systems.”

In other words, the arrival of self-driving cars won’t necessarily mean a batch of new cars. Instead, it’s currently being applied like patches on a quilt and has been for years. Anti-lock brakes, traction control, and cruise control were a few of the early phases. The current push to perfect autonomous vehicles has spun off popular modern features such as automatic emergency braking, blindside monitors, drive and parking assist, among others. Onboard sensors

can detect curbs and painted lines and stop you from changing lanes without using your signal. A modern driver would be excused if they found themselves sarcastically asking their car if it would rather drive itself. “I think a lot of consumers are still yet to be willing to give up control of the vehicle,” said Mull. “I’ve had that same issue at times.”

That equation is starting to change, especially when there isn’t a consumer in the way. Baidu, a Chinese company, recently deployed a fully autonomous vehicle to deliver food and supplies to hospitals in areas ravaged by Covid-19.

U.S. based retail pharmaceutical giant, CVS, also announced plans this spring to test a prescriptions-delivery service in Houston.

More Computers, More Muscle?

“So far, the curriculum at CVCC doesn’t involve self-driving technology,” said

Mull, though his department has partnered with Toyota Southeast to teach students to work on the company’s transmissions, engines, and diagnostic scanning tools—the latter of which have become increasingly necessary in recent years as all manufacturers have integrated computer systems throughout their mechanics. Not only does that allow his students to begin to service modern cars, it gives them a peek into just how advanced they are. “They can share information, and they can share sensor data which just opens the floodgates for technology,” explained Mull.

“That’s why you’re starting to see a lot of what we’re seeing now.”

Some of that technology has been funneled into what Mull calls “infotainment,” which you may know as bells and whistles. Built-in GPS, Bluetooth capabilities, heads-up displays, and bumper cams present today’s driver with more buttons and screens than an old-school arcade.

The real payoff, at least for self-proclaimed gearheads like Mull, is how the computers have maximized performance. Mull noted that even average pickup trucks these days are rolling off the line with more than 400 horsepower. The 2020 Audi SQ7, which looks more like a station wagon than a muscle car, boasted an incredible 500 hp, which is still a far cry from the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500’s gratuitous 700 hp.

“That’s at a pretty high level with a lot of the production vehicles you see,” said Mull. “We’re seeing horsepower numbers we’ve never seen before with some of the high-performance vehicles. That was unheard of 20 years ago. That’s the kind of stuff that gets most of us excited.”

Steering wheels and all.

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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Advertorial

DWI

(Driving while Impaired)

Is it Really a Big Deal?

By Blair E. Cody, III Attorney at Law

W

ith July 4th upon us, even in these unusual times (COVID-19), many of us will celebrate our nation’s birthday with friends and family. Often times those celebrations involve alcohol. To drink and then drive is NOT against the law (assuming you are 21 years of age). However, driving while impaired is, and that is where an experienced trial attorney can significantly increase your chances of avoiding a conviction or limiting the consequences of such a conviction. The word “impaired” has a specific legal definition in N.C. Many people drive after having a couple drinks with dinner, and there is nothing illegal about that.

As a criminal defense lawyer whose practice focuses on DWI representation, I certainly have a different perspective from others when I see the blue lights in my rearview mirror. While you should always show respect to law enforcement in every encounter—they’ve earned it—you also need to keep in mind that once they activate their blue lights, you are being seized by a government actor, and this is not going to be a casual encounter. Remember, in order for the officer to stop you, he/she must have reasonable and articulable suspicion that you have already violated the law. Here are some frequently asked questions that I get when speaking with folks about DWI.

Q. If I’m stopped by law enforcement, do I have to answer his questions, or can I refuse and do nothing?

A. The only legal thing you are required to do when stopped by L.E. is to

provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. That’s it!

And, I would suggest that is all you do. As difficult as it may seem, I would not engage in any conversation with the officer such as answering questions about where you are coming from or how much you’ve had to drink.

I always suggest that you politely ask the officer if you are free to leave when asked any questions, and if he says “no” then just respectfully say, “If I’m not free to leave, then I’m not going to do or say anything else” and then DON’T. Be firm but respectful when dealing with L.E.

Q. If I’ve never had a DWI before, can I go to jail if convicted? If so for how long?

A. Yes, depending on the facts and circumstances of your case you could

go to jail, prison actually, for up to two years, even if this is your first DWI. If you receive a Level One Punishment you may also be fined up to $4,000, be placed on probation, ordered not to consume alcohol, ordered to wear an alcohol monitoring bracelet, ordered to perform community service, ordered to obtain an alcohol assessment, complete all recommended treatment, have your license to drive suspended, and be ordered to pay the cost of court.

Q. If I am convicted of DWI, will I lose my license? Can I get a temporary license so that I can drive to work?

A. Yes, if convicted you will lose your license for at least one year. Yes,

depending on the level you are sentenced at. Levels 3-5 all allow a person to receive a limited driving privilege.

Q. Should I do the field sobriety tests or blow at the scene if told to do so by the officer?

A. I always advise that you respectfully decline (refuse) to do any field

sobriety tests or blow at the scene. Remember, the officer doesn’t ask everyone he stops to do testing, just the people he suspects are drunk. It’s hard to be successful on any test when the person doing the grading already thinks you’re impaired.

When you are charged with DWI always hire an experienced DWI attorney right away—the next day if possible—because there are certain legal rights that relate to your ability to drive, as well as evidentiary issues that are time sensitive and need to be preserved in order to give you the best possible chance of being successful in court.

The Attorneys at Helton, Cody & Associates Can Help You! To schedule an appointment, call 828.328.9966.

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

Bristol, Pawalegal....>

The Law Office of Lyndon R. Helton and The Law Office of

Helton, Cody

Blair E. Cody, III have Merged.

& Associates, PLLC

AREAS OF PRACTICE: • Divorce • Personal Injury • Workers Compensation • Criminal Defense • Traffic Violations • Social Security Disability • DWIs • Wills & Estates • Child Custody and Support • Immigration

Pictured: Blair E. Cody, III (left) Lyndon R. Helton (right)

828-328-9966 827 Highland Ave. NE Hickory, NC (located near Lenoir-Rhyne University)

www.HeltonCody.com HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2020

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