Hickory Living July 2019

Complimentary July 2019

On the Cover Story

Americans And Their

Automobiles! pages 23–28

On the Road Again...

Car buying and repair advice from the professionals pages 29-34

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from the publisher

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

Kathy Wheeler

Welcome to the July issue.

July is full of exciting possibilities for fun in the sun, starting with Independence Day parades, picnics, and stirring fireworks displays. Perhaps no American holiday is as significant as this one, when we celebrate the 1776 signing of the Declaration of Independence. It proclaimed to the world our separation from Great Britain and our sovereignty as a nation.

The Declaration states, “We hold these truths to be selfevident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.”

No document, quite so eloquent and, at the same time, revolutionary, has since been written; yet we had to earn its proclamations with a long, bloody war. Perhaps today, we continue to earn these rights with personal acts of kindness, tolerance, and patriotism.

Take advantage of all the July events. Enjoy those vacations at the beach or the mountains, spend time on the lake, attend an outdoor concert, or grill out with friends and family.

Summer comes but once a year – enjoy it!

Thank you for reading the July issue of Hickory Living Magazine.

MacAdam Smith Publisher

Hickory

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

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

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

Myron T. Gough Advertising Sales myronlivingmagazine@gmail.com (336) 428-1700

Madolyn Snow Advertising Sales madolyn@oasisluxuryhomes.com (704) 746-8108

in this issue

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kristie Darling • Meredith Collins JC Summerford

LIVING

Hickory Living reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing.

www.HickoryLivingMagazine.com

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.

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

4

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

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Shane Greene Photography Editorial Stock photography, unless otherwise noted, is from iStock.

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contents © Jeff Barrier

JULY 2019 FEATURES 12 • COVER STORY V-Infusion Hydration Center Where Health and Beauty Meet 18 • BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Pet Pilgrimage Crematory & Memorials Honoring Your Pet As Family 29 • ON THE ROAD AGAIN...

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AMERICANS AND THEIR AUTOMOBILES! 23 • The Love of Classic Cars 26 • UTI NASCAR Technical Institute Preparing Students for a Career in the Automotive Field

WHAT’S COOKING?!

37 • Cranberry Strata

IN THIS ISSUE 8 • Summer is in Full Swing 10 • July Events!

18 6

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

37

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Summer

IS IN FULL SWING

By JC Summerford

© iStockphoto.com | bernardbodo

uly is the sunny midst of summer, that magical season when children play yard games long into sultry evenings, watermelons and peaches ripen to juicy perfection, and lightning bugs blink like holiday lights strung across dusky, gardenia-scented lawns.

It’s a time for canoeing at Lake Hickory or Lake James, zipping down a water slide at the city pool, landing with a cold, refreshing splash. It’s time for back-yard picnics of smoky barbecue and sweet corn-on-the-cob, for invigorating family bike rides along the greenway, and roasting marshmallows and telling scary stories around campfires in the woods.

Appropriate for the summer heat, July is also National Ice Cream Month. That’s as good an excuse as we’ve heard to enjoy a crispy sugar-cone dripping with your favorite flavored scoop.

The Fourth of July is the day we cel8

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

ebrate, with awe-inspiring fireworks and parades large and small, America’s Declaration of Independence. North Carolina’s big cities offer plenty of splashy events, but every town celebrates in its own way.

Baseball, America’s national pastime, is featured in Hickory’s festivities. The Hickory Crawdads play Columbia at L.P. Frans Stadium at 7 p.m., with fireworks adding excitement after the game. Don’t miss Morganton’s Red, White, and Bluegrass Festival July 4th to 6th at Catawba Meadows Park. You can listen to twelve bands in three days, plus you can enjoy fireworks on the Fourth.

Every July weekend is the perfect time for summer concerts and festivals. In fact, they’re happening all over the place.

We don’t want you to miss a single one, so we’ve pulled together a convenient calendar. What a great opportunity to bring lounge chairs or a blanket for stretching out under the stars, enjoying a

pleasant evening with friends and family.

Valdese Family Friday Concerts is a great example!

Plenty of folks are preparing for that well-deserved summer vacation, driving to fun destinations in the family car, so we’ve dedicated an entire section this month to America’s enduring love for automobiles and road trips. You’ll meet some dedicated collectors of classic cars, those shiny behemoths that seem like trusted old friends sharing youthful memories. You’ll also find out how students are learning the intricacies of today’s latest high-tech cars at NASCAR Technical Institute in Mooresville.

Before you know it, the days will be shorter again, and our minds will turn to more mundane thoughts of school and work. Do you have a summer bucket list? If you don’t by now, it’s time to get started!

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JULY EVENTS Enjoy!

HICKORY

NEWTON

July 4

July 3, 10

L.P. Frans Stadium 2500 Clement Blvd. NW, Hickory The Crawdads play Columbia at 7PM. Fireworks follow the game. www.milb.com/hickory/

Movies in the Park Southside Park 1775 Southwest Blvd., Newton Bring a lounge chair or blanket. Free popcorn. Drink and concessions available. Start at dusk.

MORGANTON July 4, 5, 6 Red, White And Bluegrass Festival Catawba Meadows Park 701 Sanford Drive, Morganton Bring a lawn chair, no coolers, no pets. July 4 free admission.

July 4: Centerpiece Jazz at 6:30PM The Ocean Blvd. Band at 8:00PM Fireworks at 9:45PM July 5-6 Ticketed Event with bands starting at 1:00PM – 10:00PM. See website for details. redwhiteandbluegrassfestival.org

July 12, 19, 26 TGIF • Downtown Morganton Old Burke County Courthouse 102 East Union St, Morganton Bring a lawn chair, no coolers, no pets. Vendors open at 6PM. Music from 7PM–10PM July 12: N-Spire–Party/Variety and Car Cruise In July 19: The Night Move Band–Beach July 26: Buick MacKane–Southern Rock www.morgantonfest.org 10

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

July 3: Dolphin Tale 2 July 10: The Amazing Spider-Man 2 www.newtonnc.gov

July 11, 18, 25

VALDESE July 5, 12, 19, 26 Valdese Family Friday Night Concerts Town of Valdese parking lot beside Wells Fargo Bank on Main Street • Bring a lounge chair • Music starts at 7PM. July 5: Southwind–Variety July 12: Shake Down Band–Variety July 19: True Grass Band–Bluegrass July 26: Tony Bailey Band–Classic Rock townofvaldese.com

Get Your NewtOn! 2019 Music at the Farm Catawba Farms 400 Technibilt Drive, Newton Bring a lounge chair or blanket. Wine, beer, hard cider, soft drinks, and food available. 6:30PM

LENOIR

July 11: Boogaloo Zoo July 18: Sycamore Bones July 25: The Wayne Taylor & George Giddens Duo catawbafarms.com

July 26: Lucky Pocket–Pop downtownlenoirnc.com

CONOVER July 19 Conover Alive Concerts Norman B. Coley Amphitheater 403 Conover Station SE. Conover Bring a lounge chair and enjoy the fun! Concerts begin at 7PM. July 19: Departure–A Journey Tribute facebook.com/ConoverAlive/

July 26 Swingin’ Wingin’ Moon In Summer Music Madness Downtown Lenoir, 801 West Ave. NW Bring a lounge chair or blanket.

BLOWING ROCK July 5, 12, 19, 26 Music On The Lawn The Inn at Ragged Gardens 203 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock Bring a lawn chair, no coolers, no pets. 5:30PM–8:30PM July 5: Harris Brothers July 12: Dave Brewer’s Foscoe 4 July 19: Lucky Strikes July 26: Shelby Rae Moore Band www.ragged-gardens.com

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on the cover

By Kristie Darling | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

12

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

Just like our cars run best when we give them what they need—oil, gas, water, and such—our bodies run best when they have everything they need, when they need it. So, who really does that?

I’d guess many of us in this fast-paced world are running on empty, so to speak.

At V-Infusion Hydration Center, a sister health center to Vitality Anti-Aging and Vitality Surgical Centers in Hickory, the professional providers there have done your homework for you. They know exactly what to recommend for some of the many symptoms and conditions that keep us from doing and being our best.

Chances are, you could benefit from their excellent advice.

WHAT IS V-INFUSION? We all know hydration is important, especially when our bodies are taxed— could be from a cold-like illness—remember Mom always telling you to drink plenty of liquids—preparing for or recovering from surgery, getting up to speed for or recuperating from training or a strenuous workout, life-draining fatigue, jet lag, even a hangover. Every cell in our body needs fluids. IV hydra-

tion is the quickest, most effective way to hydrate. “We’re here for anyone who wants to keep feeling their best with hydration and supplements,” said Grace McLaurin, PA-C and partner in Vitality Anti-Aging, Surgical, and V-Infusion Centers. “Our electrolytes get out of balance when we’re sick or stressed, for example, and IV hydration can help you balance that. In many instances, we can get you back to feeling better, sometimes, better than ever.”

IV hydration is a rapid, bio-available intravenous therapy that uses customized vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants, nutrients, and medications when needed, to revive, re-set, rejuvenate, prepare, or repair us when life has gotten the best of us. “When you come into V-Infusion Center for the first time, you’ll be seen by one of our RNs or PAs, your medical history will be recorded, and a health assessment done to find out what’s going on,” Grace continued. “Our medical director is always on-call to consult with anyone whose health condition requires a physician’s overview. Perhaps you just ran a marathon, and you’re feel-

ing depleted, or you’re back from flying through several time zones, and jet lag has you out of sync, or you’re just too tired to get anything done. Maybe you have a chronic condition we can help.

Basically, we’ll customize your IV to your unique needs and desires. For some people, that means wanting to stay well, feel their very best, and prevent aging from limiting their life and activities. One hundred percent of the fluids, vitamins, and medications you receive by IV are absorbed immediately into your system and provide rapid results.”

HIGH DOSE VITAMIN C AND MORE Vitamin C is a safe and effective supplement when you’re feeling exhausted, have been under more stress than usual, or when you need a boost to your immune system to fight a viral or bacterial infection…think colds, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia. According to emedicinehealth.org, high dose vitamin C can support patients being treated with chemotherapy or radiation. Easily absorbed IV vitamin C can improve your energy level, skin, veins and arteries, bones, and it is thought to help fatigue, pain, loss of

Photos:

On the cover– Grace McLaurin, PA-C and Dr. Mac Moretz Opposite page–Grace and Dr. Moretz discuss a patient’s treatment.

Left– Left–V-Infusion is located in the beautifully renovated Moretz Mill building just down from Vitality Anti-Aging Center.

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

13

appetite, nausea, and vomiting. “High dose vitamin C requires lab work and a visit with one of our providers,” Brittni Herman explained. Brittni is one of two RNs at the Center, and she oversees the medical staff of V-Infusion, Vitality Anti-Aging, and Vitality Surgical. “You’ll have an evaluation by a board-certified PA or nurse practitioner if you have an acute illness or special need. Everything is ordered, like a prescription, and standing orders can be set up for repeat visits. We ensure that all medical protocols are followed, and at the same time, we make it easy to get in and out.”

When I visited Abby Winstead at V-Infusion’s new facility, a short walk down from Vitality, I was impressed with the open, full-of-light reception area. For patients, V-Infusion maintains a sterile medical environment in a tranquil, spa-like setting. In fact, the peaceful setting in itself will be a welcome refresh from your busy day! I had a chance to look over informative brochures and check out wellness products like weight loss shakes, bars, snacks, and energy drinks.

SPECIALIZED INFUSION COCKTAILS READY TO GO “IV infusions address a long list of health conditions, and our proprietary combinations are available to most anyone.

If you’re not sure if this is a good option for you, just call— we can go over any concerns you have,” Grace said. “Ask about general wellness, of course, but also PMS, depression, insomnia, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel and other digestive issues, stress, and migraines. Symptoms related to Lyme disease, Hashimoto’s syndrome, and cancer treatments can be helped.”

Photos, above:

• Dr. Moretz explains supplements with Lucresha Baker, front desk receptionist.

• Dr. Moretz and Brittni Herman discuss the various IV’s offered.

• Grace McLaurin and Katie Moore, CNA reviewing labs Opposite page • Brittni Herman pulls up a supplement for a hydration bag.

• Brittni Herman, RN, administering an IV • Each IV hydration is customized for the patient. sellers with exceptional results 14

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

• Custom V-Infusion Cocktails — To Feel Your Best • About Last Night — Hangover • An Apple A Day — Keeps the Doctor Away • Basic Drench — Skin and Overall Dehydration • Energizer — Need Rejuvenated?

• Fountain of Youth — Looking Your Best • Game On — Pre and Post Workout • High Dose Vitamin C — Health Booster • Quench — Rehydrate & Restore • Re-set the Clock — Jet Lag Recovery • The Recovery Room — Illness, Injury, Surgery • The Vice Grip — Migraine and Headache Relief • Turn Up the Heat — Power Your Fat Burning

WEIGHT: V-INFUSION & VITALITY ANTI-AGING Working on weight issues can be a challenge. V-Infusion and Vitality Anti-Aging can help you feel full of energy and motivation while you accomplish your weight loss goals. Vitality’s medically supervised, proven weight loss program of sound nutrition, customized plans, private appointments for counseling, prescriptions for supplements and appetite suppressants, if desired, lipotropic B12, and B1/B6 injections to help your body metabolize and clear fat can get you going, keep you going, and on to more energy and better health. “As healthcare providers, we believe anyone challenged with losing weight can benefit from establishing good nutritional habits and practices that will keep you healthy for a lifetime,” Grace said. “Our program is typically 12 weeks, but, like everything we offer, it’s totally customized to you. Your success is our success.”

THE COMPLETE PACKAGE “When I think about all that we have to offer here at Vitality Anti-Aging, Vitality Surgical Center, and now, V-Infusion, I really understand how important it is that we pull together health, beauty, and wellbeing, and I would add, confidence, energy, and synergy to the possibilities for women and men who are after a life well-lived,” Grace shared. “When Dr. McCoy Moretz, one of our medical partners, and I opened V-Infusion in 2017, we knew that hydration therapy was a cutting-edge treatment—we’re known for being first to offer effective, easily available new services—but we didn’t fully understand how our patients would benefit from this whole-person, full service approach through IV hydration and our medical and aesthetic spa. Vitality Surgical Center offers the services of three of Hollywood’s most sought-after surgeons right here in Central North Carolina. Our patients are working with the best possible physicians and health providers out there. We see remarkable, life-changing results every day. We’re proud to be leaders in this field—it’s what we’re about, and it feels good.”

828-322-1498 74 8th Street SE, Suite 112 • Hickory www.vitalitymedicalspa.com

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

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Northwest Drywall Company Serving Hickory, Surrounding Counties, and Beyond In Business Since 1970

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

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business spotlight

Photos:

Left–Pet Pilgrimage Support Standing–Andrew Fuller, Michael Cook, vice president of operations; H. Mike Cook, owner; Leslie Reid, director; Randall Cruse, Shaun Cruse.

Seated–Denise Dumford, Kylie Anderson, Marie Pauley. Dogs: Harley, Luna, Jack, Angus.

Not pictured–Arthur Helms, Susan Humphrey and Megan Shalvoy

Shane Greene Photography

Below–Each family receives a hand carved rosewood urn, a ceramic paw print and several other remembrance keepsakes.

Opposite page–Unique jewelry, urns and keepsakes can be personalized in creative ways.

A comforting environment for family members

Provided by Pet Pilgrimage

Honoring Your Pet as Family

By Meredith Collins

fully equipped vehicle with a gurney, as well as a special angel blanket to wrap around your beloved pet.

Leslie Reid, director of Pet Pilgrimage, has put her heart and soul into the facility. Leslie has created a cozy place that reflects a love of animals. Whether you choose to gather friends and family for an intimate memorial service or spend final moments alone with your pet, Pet Pilgrimage is a comforting environment where you and Pet Pilgrimage is North Carolina’s only full-service pet funeral home offering the same services for pets as a traditional funeral home offers for family can honor your faithful companion in your own special way. people. Pet Pilgrimage staff is on call 24-hours a day, since the time of passing is unpredictable.

The Pet Pilgrimage care givers’ compassion for pets and families shows in their dedication and the way they inFull-service at the pet funeral home includes pet cremation, memorial teract with clients. “Everyone grieves the loss of their pet services, and pet memorial keepsakes. Assistance with pet transportadifferently,” Leslie said. “We provide a setting that allows tion from your home or veterinary clinic to their facility is especially the grieving process to begin comfortably and peacefully helpful, and exceptional care is taken with each pet. When pet transportation is needed, a dedicated Pet Pilgrimage staff member arrives in a any time of the day or night.”

It can be very difficult to lose a beloved pet. Pet Pilgrimage, a division of Cavin-Cook Funeral Home and Crematory, offers compassionate personal service and support at the most difficult time in a pet parent’s relationship with their companion—saying goodbye.

18

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

Lisa Crates Photography

After assisting almost 500 families in the Hickory area over the past few years, Pet Pilgrimage recently opened a 2nd more convenient location in Denver. “The families we have served in the Hickory area haven’t thought twice about driving to our Mooresville location,” Leslie said.

“But we want to make sure we are as convenient as possible for families who need our services.”

Each pet privately cremated with Pet Pilgrimage is returned home in a beautiful,

Provided by Pet Pilgrimage

hand-carved rosewood urn. In addition, pet families appreciate the thoughtful remembrance keepsakes they receive.

Families receive their pet’s pawprint set in ceramic clay, fur clippings, and remembrance wildflower seeds. Many other keepsakes, including personalized jewelry, are also available.

Pet Pilgrimage gives back to the community through annual events open to the public. One of those is the Pet Life Celebration on the second Sunday in

September. This year, they will be honoring K-9 units as a way to remember Officer Jordan Sheldon.

Pet Pilgrimage Crematory & Memorials 492 East Plaza Drive, Mooresville 704-664.5484 2279 NC-16 Business, Denver 704-966-2376 www.petpilgrimage.com

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

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Summer’s Here Let’s work on the new you today.

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

ir

d The n A s n a c i r e Am

! s e l i b o m Auto

The Love of Classic Cars Article and photos by JC Summerford

PARAMOUNT You might say Benny Yount, owner of Paramount Classic Cars in Hickory, tends toward the ironic. Growing up, he didn’t have the money to buy the cars he wanted. Today, his dealership, a museum of sorts, is the envy of collectors around the world.

He started with a 1960 MGA and never looked back. “The next thing I knew, I had about 70 cars,” Benny says. “I thought I ought to build a facility to get them all together.” In the 1970s, his business was buying, refurbishing, and

selling used cars. Today he owns seven regional dealerships, plus Paramount Classic Cars, opened in 2013. He still buys and restores vintage cars and resells them to buyers in the US and overseas. “People want a piece of American history and culture,” he says. Classic cars can be a good investment, even though it takes plenty of work and money to restore them. Collector car prices increase by about 16% each year.

Benny’s 105 cars range from the 1920s to brand new models. About 30 are personal cars, not for sale. He finds it difficult to

pinpoint his favorite. “They’re sort of like children, so it’s like asking, which one is your favorite child?” he laughs. “I have quite a few American muscle cars, but I also like some of the foreign-made cars.”

In fact, several gorgeous Ferraris line the museum’s back perimeter.

One particular jewel is his satin-white 1958 Corvette with traditional red interior, valued at about $200,000. His green 1972 Corvette is one of only six known to exist. He places some of the cars in flashy environments, like the replica of Burt Reynolds’ Smokey and the Bandit car HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

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and a mustang similar to the one Steve McQueen drove in the movie Bullitt. A NASCAR display represents his ownership of Hickory Motor Speedway, which he bought in 1987.

“It’s an art collection too,” Benny says. “All of these cars are like pieces of art, they are handcrafted to a degree, so that’s another aspect people consider when they are buying.”

Paramount’s sales manager, Kennith Stewart, thinks nostalgia is the strongest reason people love classic cars.

“What they say is, ‘when my wife and I got married and had a kid, I had to get rid of my car. We needed a different one. Now that I’m at retirement age, I want a car like I had in my youth. It brings back good memories.’” Kennith remembers that as a teenager in Lancaster, South Carolina, “Me and my friends would cruise the streets, park and talk about cars, drag race them, work on them, and clean them. The cars we have here, when I was growing up, they were cars. They weren’t antiques.”

Benny adds, “As we get older, we always try to recapture part of our past, we want to re-live that era, those moments. Couples come in and say, ‘do you remember?

We had our first date in that car.’”

“These cars have distinction. They have style and class,” Kennith says. “There’s an old saying where I come from. That when you get out of your car, if you don’t take a look back at it, you bought the wrong one.”

People can view the collection by appointment, and Benny allows local charities to hold fundraiser events there. He holds a couple of open houses each year which draw hundreds of fans. “We feel blessed to be in this business, and I want to share it with the public.”

***** 24

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

Kennith Stewart shows a mustang similar to the one in the movie Bullitt.

The Museum at Killians – Sharon Killian Radke’s 1957 Chevy bought by her dad.

Right–the 1937 Chevy Elmer purchased for his wife.

KILLIANS Sharon Killian Radke and Susan Killian Kirby are so busy running Killians hardware store in Hickory, they rarely have time to drive their classic cars that were given to them by a fanatical car-collecting father.

But that doesn’t lessen the value for them one bit. “When I was in my early 30s, he bought the ‘57 Chevy in memory of the year I was born,” Sharon relates. “Susan was born in ‘69, so he bought her a Corvette from that year.”

Their dad, Elmer also bought his son John a 1955 Chevy, daughter Trina a ‘72 Corvette, and Janet got a 1961 “Mayberry car”, a replica of the Ford Galaxie Andy Griffith drove in the popular TV series. For his wife, he bought a coral pink ‘37 Chevy. In all, he collected more than 50 vehicles, several of them Model T Fords. He even got his hands on a bright red, 1910 Maxwell.

When Elmer first gave Sharon her car, she was raising three young children and driving a station wagon.

“The last thing I could think of was having a ‘57 Chevy convertible,” she says. “But the older I get, the more I

realize what a beautiful car it is and how it meant so much to him. He had passion for whatever he did. He wanted just the right car for each of us. I’d walk past the showroom and ask him what he was doing? And he would say, ‘spending your inheritance!’ I always told him to go for it.”

Elmer had opened a family-run feed mill in1953, adding the hardware business a decade later. Over the years, Elmer collected tons of antiques and filled two large warehouse buildings on the property. He organized it all into a proper museum in 1996, but tragically, died in an accident the following year. Since then, the sisters’ cars have become ever more dear to them. “He was so full of life, such a big part of our life,” Sharon says. “He was a great mentor.” Sharon and Susan have kept the business going, following in their father’s footsteps with hard work and integrity. “We’re trying to preserve the business for the next generation, not just for our children but for the community, because the history of what we have here is priceless.”

Nowadays, the sisters stage a museum open house during the Christmas holidays and for special groups. They want people to get a feel for what Hickory was like in decades past. “To us it’s a part of the history of this business and of our father,” Sharon says. “It’s really cool having that history and walking thru there, seeing all of the different times.”

Sometimes the Killian sisters drive their classic cars in local parades or enter them in car shows. “They have such character,” Sharon says. “It’s like they tell a story. When I look at them now, I feel like I’m living in that life—I can think back to that era. It gives you a new appreciation of the life we have today.”

A Classic Car Playlist “Rocket 88” – Jackie Brenston & Ike Turner, 1949 “Roadrunner” – Bo Diddley, 1962 “Hey Little Cobra” – the Rip Chords, 1963 “Little Deuce Coup” – the Beach Boys, 1963 “No Particular Place to Go” – Chuck Berry, 1964 “GTO” – Ronnie & the Daytonas, 1964 “Fun Fun Fun” – the Beach Boys, 1964 “Drive My Car” – the Beatles, 1965 “Highway 61” – Bob Dylan, 1965 “On the Road Again” – Canned Heat, 1967 “Queen of the Highway” – the Doors, 1970 “Mercedes Benz” – Janis Joplin, 1970 “Hot Rod Honeymoon” – Jeff Beck, 1973 “Low Rider” – War, 1974 “Long May You Run” – Stills-Young Band, 1976

TO FIND CLASSIC CAR MEETS AND SHOWS, VISIT: cruisincarolinamagazine.com/calendar HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

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campus for recruitment interviews on a regular basis, offering tuition reimbursements, signing and relocation bonuses.

An average course takes about 14 months to complete. Students complete a core curriculum and then branch out into areas of personal interest.

Photo by Blair Bunting

Preparing Students for a Career in the Automotive Field

By JC Summerford Remember when you simply unlocked your car door with a metal key and opened it? As you approach a modernday car, it recognizes you, unlocks the door, and by the time your seat, temperature, mirrors, and music have adjusted automatically, more than a dozen computers are involved. As cars become more complex, those who work on them have evolved along with them. Several hundred of these specialized technicians graduate every year from NASCAR Technical Institute in Mooresville.

NTI grads can choose a number of automotive-related fields, from diagnostic technician to fleet manager to NASCAR mechanic. “NASCAR employers are looking for people who are passionate, competitive, highly professional,” empha26

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

sizes Arlyn Davis, the school’s director of employment. “You’re talking about teams that have sponsors paying them 20-30 million dollars a year, and you’re representing those large companies, so professionalism is a big deal to the racing industry.”

Only a few will wind up on a racing pit crew, however. NTI, a division of Universal Technical Institute based in Arizona, also offers career paths to car dealerships and manufacturing facilities. Since 1965, UTI has graduated more than 200,000 people from its 13 campuses. They’re looking for a steady job, a career change, or a transition from military service. Four of every five graduates get jobs in the industry. In fact, they are in heavy demand.

Potential employers meet students on

The CNC elective—computer numerical control—teaches students how to create metal parts by programming robotic cutting machines. Instructor Craig Hibden, an automotive machinist by trade, has been at UTI since 2004. “Machinists are wired a little bit differently,” Craig admits.

“We’re OCD. We’re always chasing perfection. Just that I can take something off a paper and make it into a 3D piece of work still amazes me.”

CNC Students typically get a job in manufacturing, but they could make parts for cars, airplanes, boats, or even medical implements. “They can be an operator, a machine setup technician, a programmer, they could start their own CNC shop,” Craig says. “It’s just how far are they going to go on their own?”

Student Dylan Jones likes the hands-on nature of the CNC labs and the encouragement he gets from his instructors. “I went to a university before this, but I didn’t fit in,” he says. “Here, I’ve learned so much in just two and a half weeks. Really, the opportunities are endless.”

Elvira Villa is one of 19 female NTI students. A single mom of a six-year-old son, she’s always loved working with machines. “When I first came here I was nervous. I didn’t honestly know what to expect, or exactly what my goal was,” she says. “They showed me around, and I saw the machines. I was so excited! I said, ‘Oh, do I get to play with them?’” Elvira’s goal is to produce parts for the automotive or truck industry. She works 12-hour shifts at her old job, but always makes it to class on time. It’s hard, but she believes she’s on the right path. “As a mom you

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have to be sure that every step you make is the right one. I decided this is something I’m going to be in all the way. I’m going to work hard, for my son.”

Today’s dealership technicians must be sophisticated digital diagnosticians. NTI partners with 30 transportation brands such as Fiat Chrysler, Nissan, Infiniti, and Ford to make sure students learn the exact skills they need. The companies help design the curriculum and provide their latest vehicles for students to work on.

Ford Factory TTL (technical training leader) Jay Scion has worked in the automotive industry for 35 years, first in NASCAR, then at dealerships before signing on at UTI. “There is a huge demand right now for automotive technicians,” Jay says.

“As fast as they can get through this building, we put them in positions. We certify them so when they go out to the dealerships, they’re immediately capable of working on a modern-day car.”

Instructor Craig Hibden with students Dylan Jones and Elvira Villa in the CNC (machining) area Photo by JC Summerford

When Spencer Provance first enrolled at NTI, he was convinced he wanted to work for NASCAR but changed his mind after a few weeks. “It’s fastpaced. I’ve already learned maybe double what I learned in the core classes, and they’re only going to be advancing from here,” Spencer says.

Some students are gunning to up their game and get into an even more demanding program, such as BMW, Mercedes, or Porsche. Those dealerships select only a few, who must pass rigorous tests to get in. Twenty-year-old Hunter Sauza had an interview with Porsche on the day we visited. “It’s a big step in the right direction for me,” Hunter says. “They’re so prestigious. It’s an honor to go try and prove yourself and take on the challenge.”

Instructor Jay Scion with student Spencer Provance Photo by JC Summerford

Hunter has taken more than 18 courses in the past year. One invaluable lesson he learned was that a professional attitude, reliability, and appearance are as important as technical knowledge. “Porsche is really image-based. They strive to be the best. They’re looking for a specific kind of person with the right attitude, who is eager and wants to learn. The biggest challenge is just knowing everything all at once about these engineering marvels.”

Photo by Blair Bunting

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

On the Road Again...

Advice from Local Professionals Since the early 1900s when Henry Ford fathered the mass-production of automobiles, Americans have been in love with their vehicles.

These machines not only allow us the freedom to travel but have come to represent style, comfort, and in some cases, prestige. The decision to purchase a vehicle is a major investment that requires many considerations like size, reliability, safety, cost of purchase, cost of maintenance, and functionality based on what it will be used for. With so many options available, we asked the experts to give us advice on buying our next form of transportation.

Accidents happen, and we need to protect our investment. Some of our local body shops share sound advice for restoring our vehicles to maintain resale value and get us safely back on the road again.

Check out the following pages before heading out on your next summer road trip. You may decide that the trip would be much more enjoyable when taken in the comfort and style of a new automobile!

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

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ADVICE FROM EVERETT CHEVROLET

BUICK GMC & CADILLAC

What is the best time of year (or time of month) to buy a car?

Great deals happen all year long at Everett. You can find exceptional offers on different brands throughout the year.

Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac will release competitive prices month to month. Add in the Everett Deal and you will find prices that can’t be beat!

Anytime you can get 15% or higher off is a great deal.

vehicles have undergone more in-depth inspection and testing to achieve the CPO label and CPO’s typically include a warranty. They are low mileage cars that can be purchased at a very low price. However, purchasing a new car is a great choice as well! A new car is fully under warranty, so it is easier to budget monthly expenses without worrying about repairs. Who doesn’t love that new car smell?

Should I consider a used car or a new one?

Buying new or used really depends on your needs. It may make more sense to purchase used if you have a lower budget. In this case we recommend looking at Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. These

Can you give us some tips for buying a car?

Consider your finance options before you come into the dealership. You can visit EverettChevy.com or MorgantonChevy.com to get preapproved so you will know ahead of time what your

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

budget is. Depending on your needs it may make more sence to lease a vehicle instead of a traditional loan. A lease is going to be the best option for those looking to minimize their vehicle maintenance and lower their payments. This also allows you to keep a vehicle with the latest technology and provides a sign and drive option. A traditional loan can be a great option as well. Everett personally works with over 12 credit unions and over 30 banks to make sure you are getting the best deal possible. Traditional loans also give you the flexibility to decide on the length of your loan. You may want to look at the difference between a 60 month loan and a 72 month loan.

Some can even go up to 96 months.

ADVICE FROM K&M COLLISION How does it benefit you to take your car to a certified body shop?

The important thing to realize is your car can be fully restored to the condition it was before an accident. That full restoration is part of your insurance agreement and why you pay premiums. When you take your vehicle to a certified body shop, you are working with a shop that has been identified by the manufacturer as having the training, tools, equipment, and technical resources to properly repair your vehicle to pre-accident condition.

K&M Collision uses only genuine OEM parts which are the only parts guaranteed to fit your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s specifications as the original parts your vehicle was engineered with. Because the repairs are made in accordance with the manufacturer repair procedures and OEM parts are utilized, your factory warranties will be maintained, and you will get a better resale value. If your car was repaired incorrectly, an inspector can easily see that, and it has a huge impact on what your car is worth.

When your vehicle is repaired by technicians who have been trained and tested by the manufacturer, are using the correct equipment and have access to the repair procedures developed by the manufacturer, you know you’re getting a high quality certified repair. And that’s what every consumer deserves.

Do you have to go to the body shop your insurance company recommends?

No. In fact, it’s illegal for your insurer to steer you towards a specific body shop as that represents a conflict of interest.

Unfortunately, their objective isn’t always to provide you with a high-quality repair, but rather to find a way to save money.

In addition to finding a shop with manufacturer certifications, look for positive reviews. When you find the shop you are comfortable with, your insurer is legally obligated to accept your decision.

What are some misconceptions about repairing your car after an accident?

Insurers can’t tell you where to get your vehicle repaired. You can and should choose your repair shop! While “steering” is illegal, some insurance representatives engage in subtle tactics to encourage customers to use an “in-network” body shop that is better for their margins. They may say things like, “If you take it to that shop, we can’t guarantee the work.” Except in rare cases, it is the shop that provides the warranty. K&M Collision provides a lifetime warranty on their repairs!

PROTEC T YOUR INVESTMENT WITH

Factory Certified Auto Body Repair SERVICES OFFERED:

• Auto Body Repair

• Automotive Refinishing

• Collision Repair

• Diminished Value Claims

• Post-Repair Inspections

• Hail Damage Repair

• Paintless Dent Repair

• Aluminum Repair

• Factory Welding

• Glass Replacement

• 24/7 Towing Services

• Claims Handling

• On-Site Rentals

• Pre-Purchase Inspections

Certified By Over 20 Manufacturers Audi Bentley Cadillac Chevrolet Chrysler Ford GMC

Hyundai Infiniti Jaguar Jeep Kia Land Rover Mercedes

Nissan Nissan GT-R Porsche Subaru Tesla Volkswagen Volvo

Contact Us For a Free Consultation!

K&M COLLISION 828-564-8995 916 Lenoir-Rhyne Blvd SE, Hickory http://KandMCollision.com Hours: M-F 9am-5pm

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

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ADVICE FROM HICKORY USED CAR SUPERSTORE How do I make sure a used car is in good shape?

Make sure you are buying from a reputable dealer. Franchise dealers invest money on the reconditioning of their vehicles. Their price might be higher than Billy Bob’s Auto Sales down the street, but most likely, they‘ve spent money to make it right. Most quality dealers will back their vehicles with a short term limited warranty for consumer’s peace of mind.

Check the dealer’s Google and Facebook reviews. Research the car’s vehicle history information with tools like CARFAX. Look over the vehicle yourself and check the basics. If it is making noises, has damage, or even smells, that might be a sign of lack of maintenance. If it passes that initial test, take the vehicle for a test drive. If it feels good to you, but you’re still not sure, ask for a reconditioning report on the vehicle.

If one is not available, ask if you can have the vehicle inspected by a third party.

What is the best way to test drive a car?

When test driving the vehicle, be sure to spend enough time with the vehicle to feel comfortable. On the initial drive, have the sales consultant go with you to answer any questions you may have about vehicle operation and equipment functions. It is suggested that you take a route that is the same or similar as your daily driving habits. For instance, if you are a highway

commuter, make sure to ask for a highway test drive. Finally, take it home! How does it look in the driveway? Does it fit in the garage? Are the neighbors jealous!?

Should I consider a used car or a new one?

There are benefits to both options. We lean to the used car side. The obvious reason, of course, is you’ll simply pay more for a new car! Secondly, depreciation is a major factor when it comes to the purchase of a new car. On average, a new car loses 20-30% of its value once it rolls off the lot and as much as 50% (or more) after three years. Why not let someone else absorb that initial loss? Lastly, you can get more for your money by buying used. Why buy the base model of a new car when you can buy an upgraded model of the same vehicle just a year or two old for less!? Looking for a happy medium? Look at Certified Pre Owned (CPO) vehicles. They must meet certain manufacturer standards to qualify for CPO, come with extended warranty over the original manufacturer’s warranty, and most come with incentivized finance rates.

It’s like getting the best of both worlds!

Buying a used car should also mean lower insurance premiums and property taxes.

Ultimately, each of us has a unique set of financial and transportation requirements that we must consider when deciding between new and used.

How do I know I’m getting a good buy on a used car?

Do your homework. Compare prices to similar vehicles in your area. Or, just ask us! We can run a market report that will do the shopping for you! Ensuring you get a good deal on one of the biggest purchases you will make on a used car can be a stressful experience. Ask yourself a few questions. Did I get a good value for my money? Does my dealer have a reputable service department? Do I like my salesperson? Do I feel like I can trust him/her and the dealership? If you can answer, “yes”, to those questions, you got a good deal.

What do you offer that helps customers buy a used car from you?

We offer a wide selection of used vehicles and hope to make your car buying experience as quick and hassle-free as possible.

We have cars from just a couple thousand to tens of thousands! We offer financing for all credit types from over 30 banks and credit unions. All vehicles come with a free CARFAX report. All vehicles receive a 117-point service inspection. Most vehicles come with a three-month, 3000 mile powertrain warranty. On certain models, if equipped, you get four months of Sirius/ XM service free, and three free months of OnStar. Best of all, you will work people from the community just like you with over 130 years of combined experience!

Are You Looking For a Great Used Car? Visit Us Online to See Our: Inventory View a CARFAX Get an E-Price AND Credit Pre-Approval!

www.HickoryUsed.com 32

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

Visit Our Showroom For A Test Drive!

625 US Hwy 70 SE, Hickory, NC 28602

(828) 855-9405

ADVICE FROM GASTONIA CHRYSLER – JEEP What is the best time of year to buy a car?

It used to be that October was the best month and the last day of each month was the best day, but with the strength of the Internet now every day is the same.

365-days-a-year our sales team will make sure that shoppers receive the best value on their automotive purchase.

Should I buy this year’s latest or last year’s model?

Buying decisions should be made based on the customer needs and the features and benefits of the model, not the year.

Should I consider a used car or a new one?

There are benefits to both a new and used car. One thing to look for in a used car is a pre-owned certification which increases your warranties and gives you peace of mind.

Can you give us some tips for buying a car?

• Start by selecting an automotive dealer that has positive online customer reviews and ties to the community—know who you will be buying your car from.

• Extensive research can be done online.

Check out the manufacturer’s website for features and benefits and the dealer’s website for current inventory.

• Know your financing options. Dealership finance directors are available at the time of purchase to explain those options. They work with a variety of banks.

• Negotiating with a dealer/owner can be done at a dealership where the dealer/ owner is available. This does not happen often. The beauty of the Internet is that consumers can be comfortable walking into the dealership, because the negotiating has already taken place.

Dealers list prices based on market conditions.

• Most dealer websites have a tool that allows consumers to estimate their current vehicle’s trade-in value based on condition and market demand.

• Assistance with securing insurance can be done at the dealership at time of purchase if it has not been handled in advance by the buyer. Customers may want to contact their current agent before making their new auto purchase.

• Over 90% of consumers research vehicles online before heading out to their dealership of choice. This cuts down impulse buying.

• When considering add-ons and warranties at the dealership, ask questions and answer questions––the experts can help you make decisions based on your needs and how you will be using your new vehicle. Will you be driving long distances? Are you hauling a boat?

• Test drive any vehicle you are considering to make sure it’s a good fit for you.

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

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ADVICE FROM CUSTOM BODY WORKS What is the most important thing that consumers should know about insurance claims?

Know what your policy covers. Not all insurance policies allow your vehicle to be repaired using OEM parts (Original Equipment Manufacturer). Most policies allow vehicles to be repaired utilizing aftermarket, used, or reconditioned parts.

These parts are more cost effective, however may not be the best replacement for your vehicle. So my advice is to ask your insurance provider if they offer an OEM endorsement.

Also, rental insurance provides the consumer with a rental vehicle after an accident and is a low-cost addition to your policy.

What are the benefits to a certified body shop?

These certifications equip the body shop with the latest training and tools required

to repair your vehicle. Certifications can be interpreted differently. We pair our certification with over 50 years of experience. Custom Body Works has proudly served our community with quality collision repairs since 1980. We pride ourselves in excellent customer service and repeat business.

Vehicles may be equipped with an active shutter, active cruise control sensor, or composite (plastic) radiator support which all could all be affected in a lowspeed, front-end impact. Other safety features limit what can be repaired or must be replaced. Our shop has invested in the tools needed to repair your vehicle.

What are the biggest changes you have seen in collision repair?

Advancement in vehicle technology. Vehicles are being manufactured with lighter materials, more safety features, and more amenities. By 2025, passenger cars and light-duty trucks in the U.S. must meet Corporate Average Fuel Economy fleet standards of 54.5 miles per gallon. To meet this standard, manufacturers are developing systems that increase fuel mileage on current production vehicles. This has driven the price of a front bumper estimate from hundreds to thousands.

What is the most important process in getting a good paint repair?

Prep. We take the time to color map each vehicle before it reaches the paint department. Not only is the manufacturer color code used, but a photo of the current color is loaded into our computer when making color decisions. You may ask why? Vehicles are being produced with less color applied than years past.

Also, on an assembly line, the first vehicle through may not match the last one produced that day. We take these extra steps to ensure the closest color match.

Providing Quality Body Work for Over 39 Years Collision Repair • Frame Repair • Paintless Dent Repair • Towing

• Free computerized estimates • Enterprise rentals avalible • Long-standing relationships with all insurance companies • Direct repair facility for several insurance companies • Towing assistance • Complete collision repair

• Unibody & full frame repair • Paintless dent removal • 3M Headlight lens restoration • ALLDATA collision repair methods • Axalta Acquire Plus EFX color matching camera for waterborne refinishes

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Experts in Experts in

DEWARD’S DEWARD’S

HEART HEART I’m enjoying a new season of life with my sons I’m enjoying a new season ofworld lifea with my sons A self-proclaimed “mad gardener,” making the more beautiful place is calling.“mad Whengardener,” fatigue became thorn in his side, he turnedplace to the A Deward’s self-proclaimed makingathe world a more beautiful heart experts at Frye Regional Medical Center.

A state-of-the-art intervention is Deward’s calling.

When fatigue became a thorn in his side, he turned to the helped him regain his Regional energy and get back to creating beautiful outdoor spaces heart experts at Frye Medical Center.

A state-of-the-art intervention with hishim sons. helped regain his energy and get back to creating beautiful outdoor spaces Ashis part of Duke LifePoint Healthcare and the region’s only Duke Health with sons. heart Frye Regional Center expertise to care Asaffiliate, part of Duke LifePoint Medical Healthcare and has the renowned region’s only Duke Health for Deward andFrye others in our Medical community withhas heart disease.expertise At Frye Regional, heart affiliate, Regional Center renowned to care we’re not just experts care. We’rewith experts indisease. your heart. for Deward and othersininheart our community heart At Frye Regional, we’re not just experts in heart care. We’re experts in your heart.

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What's Cooking?!

Cranberry Strata

Brunch is perfect for those weekends when you decide to sleep in, or you have morning guests. This Italian-inspired Cranberry Strata recipe should be made ahead of time so it has time to chill and absorb all the goodness before baking,

Cranberry Strata 8

cups crusty French bread crumbs 1 package (18 ounces) cream cheese ½ cup dried cranberries 6 eggs 2 ¼ cups milk ¹/³ cup maple syrup, plus additional, for serving (optional) ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg Directions In a greased, 2-quart rectangular baking dish, arrange about 4 cups of bread pieces.

Cut cream cheese into 8-10 slices and arrange over bread chunks.

Sprinkle cranberries over bread chunks, and top with remaining bread pieces.

In a medium bowl, beat together eggs, milk and maple syrup.

Pour over the bread in the baking dish. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon or nutmeg. With the back of a spoon or spatula, lightly press down to saturate bread with egg mixture.

Cover and chill for up to 24 hours.

Heat oven to 350° F. Bake, covered, for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake for 20 more minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Serve warm and topped with maple syrup, if desired.

Recipe and photos courtesy of Culinary.net Visit Culinary.net for videos and more delicious recipes.

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

37

2.31 Acre Lot For Sale $44,900

The Peninsula At Lake James

Call or Text 828.238.3224 Gated Community With Dock Infinity Pool Private Boat Storage

Interior Lot - Not Lake Front

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HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

39

Protect your

SKIN from the SUN Sun damage can cause premature aging and skin cancer. Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology recommends that you protect yourself this summer by: • Wearing a sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher.

• Wearing protective clothing such as a wide brim hat, long sleeves and pants, and sunglasses.

• Avoiding the sun between 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The Mohs technique allows surgeons to create the smallest defect possible. PPSD offers Mohs surgery and immediate plastic surgical reconstruction.

Please call and schedule your appointment today with Dr. Johnson or one of our other board-certified physicians.

If diagnosed with skin cancer, ask your doctor if you would benefit from Mohs surgery.

828.325.9849 • 315 19th St. SE, Building 100, Hickory, NC 28602 40

HICKORY LIVING • JULY 2019

Charles Johnson, MD

Dermatologist/Mohs Surgeon