Hickory Living June 2020

Complimentary June 2020 On the Cover

Where Health and Beauty Meet page 12

Living

Outdoor pages 19-28

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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BEING APART….

doesn’t mean being apart.

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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from the publisher

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

Kathy Wheeler

Welcome to the

June issue.

There’s no place like home. That phrase has never been more meaningful than right now.

The events of the past few months have served to give us all a new appreciation for our humble abodes. Instead of just being a place where we park ourselves after a long day at work or hang out on the weekends, we’re now actually living in our homes – really living.

Under less-than-ideal circumstances, we’ve rediscovered the beauty of home – the joy of reading in a favorite book nook, watching a movie in your perfect man-cave, or having family meals at the big dinner table. Our homes have become our protectors, shelters from the storm – our refuge from an invisible enemy.

As you would guess, all the time spent inside has also brought to our attention areas in our homes that need maintenance or just freshening up. Who hasn’t visited the hardware store lately or submitted online orders for paint, plants, maintenance products, or materials for small home-improvement projects? At a time when we could do little else because the world was on pause, the least we can do is give our homes a little TLC. 4

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

It is, perhaps, one of the few ways we’ve managed to stay sane at a time when everything seems so topsy-turvy. Let’s face it, spending hours completing a honey-do list feels much more productive than watching hours of TV news.

In this edition, we offer you some ideas for making your home more comfortable in these uncomfortable times. Bring the outdoors in.

Make your backyard your getaway.

Create a she-shed for that moment when you need some time to yourself. And, on those occasions when you decide to venture away from the house, we’ve got some ideas for that, too.

As we all spend more time staying in, it just makes sense to give our homes some love. Taking care of our No. 1 investment has never carried so much importance and weight as it does right at this moment.

Thank you for reading Hickory Living magazine. I hope you enjoy this issue.

MacAdam Smith Publisher

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

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

Hickory

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

www.HickoryLivingMagazine.com 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.

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contents JUNE 2020 FEATURES 12 • COVER STORY Vitality Anti Aging Center Where Health And Beauty Meet

OUTDOOR LIVING 20 • Hiking To North Carolina’s Beautiful Scenery

20 © Jeff Barrier

22 • Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth Is...

Choose Your Grill To Become The Ultimate Pit-Master 26 • Move Over Man-Cave Dwellers

Make Room For The She Shed 28 • Expand Your Horizons With An Outdoor Addition

IN THIS ISSUE 8 • The Importance Of Fatherhood 10 • What Rights Do Grandparents Have?

contributors

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

26

© Wes Stearns

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

Kristie Darling • Shirley Moore Blair E. Cody, III • Kathy Wheeler

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

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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The Importance of Fatherhood

By Kathy Wheeler

Parenting has evolved from the traditional roles where mothers were the main caregivers and fathers were the primary financial providers. Today, with most women in the workforce, fathers are truly critical players on the parenting team. Children benefit greatly when both parents are involved with them in a healthy relationship. While mothers can be great nurturers, fathers can be excellent teachers whose influence can encourage independence and achievement in their children.

©iStockphoto.com | Halfpoint

Even though children don’t come with an instruction book, they learn by example as well as instruction. For good or bad, directly and by example, fathers teach their sons what kind of men to be and how important respect is in a relationship or marriage. Similarly, fathers teach their daughters how men should treat women by the way they treat their wife. When parents fail to be respectful to each other, they risk loosing respect from their children as well as their spouse.

Studies have shown that children whose fathers are engaged and involved in their lives (perfection is not required!) are more independent, secure, and socially well adapted. Children who have good relationships with their father are more likely to do well in school, have better self-esteem, and are less likely 8

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

to develop behavioral problems. Those with involved fathers are more likely to be emotionally and physically healthy.

diate and lasting effects your influence has on your children’s lives and your family.

We see the effects of the absentee father on our society. Even if a father doesn’t live in the home, he can still have a major influence on his children’s lives by remaining involved. The time he spends with his kids is not as important as the quality of their relationship.

Father’s Day is Sunday, June 21st. Let your father know that he is loved and respected and that you appreciate all of his love, support and wisdom. For those who have fathers who don’t show a lot of emotion, don’t let that discourage you. Express your love and admiration for him anyway! He may not show it, but he’ll secretly swell up with pride and joy.

Many single mothers do a great job trying to fulfill both roles and when possible, finding male role models and mentors to help bridge the gap. Relatives, sports coaches, friends, or scout leaders can play a valuable, supportive role in a child’s life.

What an awesome responsibility you fathers have! You can’t deny the imme-

At Hickory Living Magazine, we appreciate the effort and guidance of good fathers and father figures. Your role is essential to the generations that follow as both mentors and teachers.

Happy Father’s Day!

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WHAT RIGHTS DO GRANDPARENTS HAVE?

By Blair E. Cody, III Attorney at Law

With Mother’s Day on May 10th and Father’s Day around the corner on June 21st, I thought it might be a good time to discuss grandparents’ rights in custody matters. Because after all, every grandparent is also a mother or father!

©iStockphoto.com | RobertCrum

G

randparents often play a vital role when it comes to raising or helping to raise their grandchildren. I grew up on “Cody Hill” in rural Catawba County where my grandparents lived. Those were some of the best years of my life. Fast forward 40 years, and the role that grandparents might play in the rearing of their grandchildren is more involved than ever. With both parents working full time in most households, the high cost of childcare, along with the seemingly endless school, sports, and social calendars of most children in today’s world, grandparent involvement is a welcome and often necessary need that many families have. While most grandparents probably never imagined they would find themselves in a situation where they were raising their

grandchildren full time, it is more and more common to find them in that role.

In North Carolina, our laws recognize the rights of grandparents as they relate to custody or visitation with their grandchildren through the courts. While it is always a facts and circumstances analysis that the court must perform with granting custody, N.C.G.S. §50-13.2 (b1) specifically speaks to grandparent involvement: “An order for custody of a minor child may provide visitation rights for any grandparent of the child…”. When grandparents apply to the court for custody or visitation, they do so as a third party. That means that they are not the biological parents of the minor child, but a third party seeking either custody or visitation.

Five common questions related to grandparent’s rights:

1

Can I get custody of my grandchild even if the parents don’t agree with it?

Yes, depending on the facts and circumstances. Most custody cases I handle involving grandparents are where the parties don’t agree who should have primary custody.

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2

If I get custody of my grandchild, can I give custody back to the parents at a later date?

Yes, child custody orders in North Carolina are always modifiable upon a substantial change in circumstances affecting the welfare of the minor child.

What if I don’t want custody of my grandchild but rather visitation at certain times. Can I be granted visitation?

Yes. Again, depending on the facts and circumstances, you can be awarded visitation with your grandchild, such as every other weekend.

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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3

If I try to get custody of my grandchild and I’m unsuccessful, will I have to pay child support?

No. The only circumstance in which a grandparent might be required to pay child support for a grandchild is when their child (the parent to the grandchild) is also a minor.

If the parents and I are in agreement about custody, do we have to go to court?

No. If everyone is in agreement, we can prepare a consent order as to custody, and all the parties can sign. This will prevent either party from having to appear in court.

While biological parents enjoy certain constitutionally protected rights when it comes to rearing their children, there are instances in which those rights can be forfeited, so to speak. One such instance might be where the parent has left the minor child with the grandparents, and the grandparents have assumed the role of primary caregiver for the minor child. In these situations where the grandparents have formed a substantial relationship with the minor child, they can receive either primary custody or visitation with their grandchild. Another common situation is when one of the parents has either a drug or alcohol dependency, and neither of the biological parents is able to care for the minor children.

Grandparents can also get visitation with a grandchild that has been adopted, depending on circumstances.

N.C.G.S. §50-13.2A speaks to this type of situation, when the child was adopted by a stepparent or a relative of the child, and a substantial relationship exists between the grandparent and the child.

If you have found yourself in a situation where you are needing to get custody of your grandchild, give us a call—we can help!

Blair Cody has been practicing Family Law for over 19 years in the Hickory area.

For an appointment call Helton, Cody & Associates, PLLC at 828.328.9966.

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 • JUNE 2020

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on the cover

Where Health and Beauty Meet

By Kristie Darling | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

People cherish their vitality. The word means “life.” At Vitality Anti-Aging Center and its sister facilities, Vitality Surgical and V-Infusion Hydration Centers, health, beauty, and a life well-lived are the focus. “We truly care about our patients,” said owner Grace McLaurin. “Your good health, safety, and sense of wellbeing are our number one priority.” If you have ever considered improving your health, looking and feeling your very best—and the boost in self-esteem and vitality that brings—Vitality AntiAging Center is where you should begin. It’s where you’ll start taking the best possible care of yourself.

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

Photos:

On the cover–Todd Hinceman, NP-C, and Grace McLaurin, PA-C, owners of Vitality Anti-Aging Center and Medical Spa, LLC Pictured–Vitality’s employees may look a little different in their personal protective equipment, but you will continue to receive the top notch care you have grown accustomed to.

Photos:

Left Grace McLaurin, PA-C, enjoys training and teaching colleagues when not seeing patients.

Good Health & Safety Begin Here Asking the right questions these days is critical. Everyone wants assurance that protocols are in place for a safe visit to any wellness center. At Vitality, office manager Lori Winstead and her staff have expanded infection control procedures to include ionizers, HEPA filters, masks, sterilizing equipment, and, of course, screening patients. “We’ve established a sick area outside the main office so people are comfortable during their visit. They won’t be exposed to sick patients,” Lori explained. “Routine follow-ups, sick-visits, and refills can be done with our tele-med system…it’s very easy.”

Awards Abound for Vitality!

Aesthetics Everything is one of the largest international networks of aesthetics professionals, and their Beauty Expo highlights awards given for the best professionals in dozens of categories. Vitality won the prestigious Aesthetic Everything Award for Best Medical Spa East. Grace McLaurin was awarded Best Injector, Best Physician Assistant, and Best Businesswoman for 2020. Grace and Vitality were featured on the JumboTron in Times Square!

Also this year, Vitality achieved Top 500 Allergan Provider.

Grace is a top trainer for Allergan, ArqueDerma, and PRP Cocktail. These awards ensure that experienced, qualified professionals work at Vitality.

Vitality Anti-Aging Center’s reputation as one of our region’s finest, classiest, and most sought after medical and beauty spas is well-earned. When you enter Vitality’s facility, tension and stress are released, positive energy and the soothing

environment prepare you for a day of wellness. Ready yourself for total revitalization!

Vitality’s Own Skincare Line “You will be amazed how easy beautiful skin can be. With our very own VSkin RX products, everything you need for brightening, rejuvenating, erasing, hydrating, calming, and tightening has been formulated especially for our clients,” aesthetician Kathy Findlay told me. “We worked directly with the creator of some of the best skincare products in the world. Our clients see a remarkable improvement…VSkin has become very popular.”

Anti-Aging Services for Everyone There are a number of approaches to anti-aging. The medical providers and aestheticians at Vitality know their stuff, and they consult with you regarding goals, concerns, problems, and questions you might have. Where to start is a common first conversation. “It’s a partnership with both provider and patient to achieve or surpass everyone’s goals,” Grace emphasized.

Facial Rejuvenation – Possibly the most name-recognized anti-aging product available is Botox. At Vitality, practitioners have over 40 years’ combined Botox injection experience— Grace is a national certified trainer. Other face enhancing options are NovaThread for lifting, especially for neck, brow and lowerface; Fraxel to reverse signs of aging, such as skin damage, rough skin, and scarring; Clear + Brilliant laser treatments before or after your skin has aged; microneedling, microchanneling, and Plasma Pen treatments that amazingly improve your skin’s appearance in many ways.

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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Todd Hinceman and Grace McLaurin are part of an elite group certified in the world’s only patented technique, ArqueDerma. In addition, they have studied under some of the best-known injectors in the world. Fillers, such as Juvéderm, Voluma, Vollure, Volbella, and Sculptra enhance face and body. Other services include HydraFacials, laser hair removal, dermaplaning, carbon laser facials, CO2 laser resurfacing, PHI certified microblading for brows, and laser tattoo removal.

State of the Art Morpheus8 by InMode – “Morpheus8 is amazing for skin tightening and remodeling,” Kathy said. “It takes radiofrequency microneedling to a new level. Simply put, Morpheus8 penetrates deep into the skin and fat and morphs aging skin into a more desired smooth appearance.”

This treatment penetrates deeper than other microneedling devices. It is used most commonly on the lower face and neck; areas of the face and body that have wrinkles, discoloration, or acne scarring are suitable.

Get Ready For Summer with Body Sculpting –Vitality’s body contouring lounge includes minimally invasive procedures like BodyTite, FaceTite, Morpheus8, and Cellfina. Cooltone and Coolsculpting, non-surgical alternatives to liposuction, are popular treatments. “Vitality continues to be the only practice in the area to offer CoolTone,” Lori said.

V-Lean Weight Loss – There’s no time like the present to get professional help when you need to get the weight off and keep it off. Vitality has two affordable membership programs, each designed for reaching your weight goal.

Todd Hincemen, NP-C, oversees an online portal for weight loss, bioidentical hormone therapies for women and men (treating low testosterone syndrome), and wellness care to achieve your wellness goals. Customized even for vegans and vegetarians, V-Lean is a livable day-to-day approach that establishes healthy habits and complete nutrition. “There is so much support here,” Lori added, “patients have a high success rate and rave about their results.”

Photos, above, top to bottom: • Grace McLaurin, PA-C, pictured during a Morpheus8 treatment.

• Vitality is excited to offer CoolTone, Allergan’s latest innovation

in body contouring • Todd Hinceman, NP-C, pictured administering Botox.

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

Traditional & Cutting-Edge Treatments Vitality is a full-service medical and aesthetic center providing comprehensive healthcare by licensed and certified medical professionals. “Integrative health care combining traditional medicine with sound alternative and natural therapies is most effective,” Grace explained. “We offer primary care, annual wellness exams, sick visit exams, management of conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, menopause, hormone replacement therapy for men and

women, including bioidentical HRT, while maintaining our philosophy that prevention really is the best medicine. Our team is extremely competent and dedicated. We’re all family here—I trust each provider because they treat patients like their own family. Many have been with us for years, and that makes a big difference in quality.”

V-Infusion Hydration Center “IV hydration is the quickest, most effective way to feel better,” Lori explained. “Athletes preparing or recovering from a rigorous workout or competition and patients recovering from illness, surgery, or injury benefit. It’s perfect for immune system optimization, jet lag, or hangover—anytime you need hydration or an infusion of vitamins or medications. V-Infusion helps prevent aging and keeps you on top of your game.”

High Marks & Rave Reviews “Our patients are educated,” Lori told me. “They’ve done their research about innovative procedures and products— they know what they’re looking for—and we listen. We’ve incorporated the best new technologies and advancements to provide excellent quality service right here in Hickory, without a hospital visit or leaving town.”

Clients agree that Vitality is one of the finest professional medical and aesthetic centers in our entire area. The awards and advancements in their training and services are testament to the quality of customized services you will receive. One patient said, “Fillers, Botox, anti-aging treatments and therapies…I’ve had many of their services over the years. Even after moving to Raleigh and Atlanta and trying others, Grace and her team are The Best In The Business. I live in Charlotte now, but Vitality in Hickory is the place for me. Professional and top notch in every way!”

Want to boost your vitality? We all do. That’s where Vitality Anti-Aging Center is a godsend! Get your questions answered by caring professionals who have helped many achieve a youthful new look and better health. Questions are free… results are priceless.

To find out more about Vitality Anti-Aging Center go to www.vitalitymedicalspa.com, call 828-322-1498, or visit on social media.

Located At:

74 8th St SE #101, Hickory, NC 28602

Photos, above, top to bottom:

• Dr. Mac Moretz speaks with a patient during a consultation.

• Grace McLaurin, PA has worked with leading illustrator Kevin Cease on facial anatomy for her training company Aesthetic Consulting & Training.

• Brittni Herman, RN, injecting lip filler. Safety is always our priority, that’s why we use AccuVein to assist the injector during treatments.

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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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.

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• 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

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HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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

For Your Landscape Transformation, Contact Kevin Sipe and the Scenic View Team

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Living

Outdoor

©iStockphoto.com | Zinkevych

After the recent stay-at-home orders, I think improving our home’s outdoor space has never become more important! In this issue, you will find articles featuring fun things to do in our area that get you outside enjoying the sunshine and ways to improve your backyard to create an outdoor oasis.

No face masks required!

©iStockphoto.com | Franck-Boston | Maridav | AVNphotolab

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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Hiking To North Carolina’s Beautiful Scenery

• 1

By Kathy Wheeler | Photos by Jeff Barrier

W

e have amazing trails for hikers in North Carolina, and Jeff Barrier has hiked most of them.

The fact that he is an avid photographer is even better!

We get both his advice and amazing photographs in this article. I interviewed Jeff last year for our outdoor living issue. This year, he and I decided to focus on some trails that the whole family could enjoy and ways to connect with others for those more advanced trails.

What are some family friendly hikes that are good for people with children?

Jeff: I believe the criteria that would define a family friendly hike would include the length of the hike, the difficulty of the hike, the ease of access to the hiking area, and the lack of dangerous areas encountered on the hike.

Length: no more than three miles round trip.

Difficulty: little elevation gain; a wide, groomed trail without many rocks to negotiate; well-marked with signage so there is little chance of getting lost.

Easy access: local, with good parking and possibly restrooms at the trailhead.

Not dangerous: no cliff areas, no water crossings, etc.

The first places that come to mind that easily meet these criteria are our local greenways and city parks. St. Stephens Park in Hickory and the Morganton Greenway are examples. These areas may not feel as adventurous as other trails, but they 20

HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

Photos:

• • • 1

Fonta Flora Trail

2

Crabtree Falls

3

High Shoals Falls in South Mountain State Park

Local parks and greenways are a great place to nurture your children’s love and respect of nature.

Whether they hike the trails or ride their bikes, it is fantastic exercise and an opportunity to educate them on wildlife.

are great family outings and fun entry-level hikes. For those feeling a bit more adventurous, there are many options. South Mountain State Park offers many family friendly hikes, and a favorite of mine is the short hike to High Shoals Falls. Dupont State Forest has several family friendly hikes to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in NC. There are also many options on the Blue Ridge Parkway: Julian Price Park, Linville Falls, Crabtree Falls, Mt. Mitchell, and Craggy Gardens—especially when the rhododendrons are blooming—to name just a few.

What about more difficult hikes people can take?

Jeff: First and foremost, difficult hikes are for experienced hikers, and even with experience, basic safety rules should always be followed: never hike alone, and go with someone who knows the trail you are hiking. Carry enough food and water (minimum half-liter per person per hour of hiking.)

Take emergency equipment, such as tools to start a fire and a whistle and clothing suitable for sudden weather changes like rain and cold. Take your phone and always let someone know where you are going and when you are returning. Difficult hikes often lead into wilderness areas that present rugged trails that are tough to navigate, require some physical fitness and dexterity to negotiate, and are not well marked, if marked at all.

Western North Carolina is fortunate to have lots of beautiful but rugged terrain, so the difficult hike category opens up lots of trails. Our mountains provide many difficult hikes because

of elevation gain, rugged trails with few markings, and sometimes little maintenance. The Appalachian Trail runs through the most western parts of North Carolina and qualifies as difficult in most places. The AT can be accessed in several places for day hikes, including Max Patch and Roan Mountain. Other examples include the Art Loeb Trail and Shining Rock Wilderness area near Asheville, the Linville Gorge Wilderness area, Grandfather Mountain, the Lost Cove/Harper Creek area, the Boone Fork Trail at Julian Price Park, and many more.

Are there clubs, community college classes, or groups that people can join if they are looking to take some of the more difficult hikes? If so, what are they?

Jeff: Absolutely, and the community college route is an excellent option for anyone wanting to gain knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience in a safe and guided setting. Western Piedmont Community College offers several classes that would be an ideal starting place. They offer an orienteering class that uses map and compass to find your way and classes in nature hiking, backpacking, and even rock climbing. I can’t imagine a better platform for gaining confidence and knowledge than our community college system.

• • 2 3

As for groups and clubs, they do exist, and you can find them through social media. Like everything else, the outdoors has a vast social media presence these days. Simply going to your social media platform of choice and searching for things like NC hiking, Pisgah National Forest, NC backpacking, etc. can help locate groups that will answer questions that are posted to their pages. This is also a great way to see photos that others have shared. However, caution should always be used with social media sites since you are dealing with people you don’t know. Never hike with anyone you don’t know and fully trust.

Guided tours are also an option; some are free of charge. An online search of “Guided hiking tours in NC” will offer up many possibilities. https://www.romanticasheville.com/ hikes_guided.htm is a great starting place to start.

Apps that can be downloaded to your phone are another way to get some insight into local trails. These apps offer information like trail difficulty and trailhead location. They also share user reviews, photos, and show nearby trails based on your location. Some contain trail maps and navigational features.

Examples are AllTrails and REI Hiking Project.

Books are another good way to find local trail information. I have a dog-eared copy of Hiking North Carolina that I still use to find new and forgotten hikes.

We encourage you to take advantage of the beautiful scenery that our area offers. Whatever level of experience, there are hikes you can take, waterfalls you can see, and fun for the whole family in the great outdoors!

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Putting Your Money Where Your Mouth is …

Choose Your Grill to Become The Ultimate Pit-Master

By Shirley Moore ©iStockphoto.com | Peera_Sathawirawong

Long, hot summer evenings, friends in the backyard, and chill music. All that’s missing for a great time is dinner from the grill. Before you light the coals or turn up the heat, consider upgrading.

Why not put your money where your mouth is to become the ultimate pitmaster? There’s no shortage of grill options out there to help you crush it—you can be the best outdoor chef on the block!

Your options Grills come in different styles, shapes, sizes, and prices. You can go pintsized—or you can go gargantuan. Here’s a look at four different types of grills and the benefits of each.

The charcoal grill – Ahh … you can almost smell the sweet smoke wafting through the air. Barbecue purists love charcoal grills simply because the pure, rich charcoal flavor seeps into your food. And once you’re able to adjust the air intake and exhaust to establish the desired temperature zone, the temperature typically remains constant and consistent throughout the cooking process, giving you even cooking throughout.

This is particularly beneficial when you’re cooking for extended periods of time, trying to break down and tender22

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ize tougher cuts of meat. But while charcoal grills, which can run for well under $100, are great for cooking and flavor, here’s the rub: Charcoal grills can be a pain to clean, and grills can also be dangerous if left unattended. Fires can flair up easily due to lighter fluid and exposed flame. Also, when compared to other types of grills, charcoal grills can seem rudimentary, with few bells and whistles.

Gas grill – One of the biggest benefits you’ll notice right away is the relatively quick cleanup. There are no hot coals or ashes to clean up like as with coal grills.

Also, since natural gas is a relatively cheap energy source, the cost to operate your grill should remain low.

Newer grills also come with quite a few features—temperature controls, multiple burners, rotisserie turners, and even kitchen sinks attached. Portability is, perhaps, the biggest drawback of a gas grill. If your grill is hooked to a gas line, you may be unable to place it or move it where you like. The average propane grills can cost between $100 and $500.

A natural gas grill is cheaper to operate.

Pellet grill – For achieving the optimum smoky flavor, a pellet grill may be the best choice. Pellet grills are outdoor cookers that combine elements

of smokers, charcoal, gas grills, and ovens. They use hardwood pellets as a fuel source. And the pellets come in a variety of flavors: maple, pecan, hickory, mesquite, and apple, to name a few.

Pellet grills can cost anywhere from around $500 for a small one up to $9,000+ for upgraded ones like those shown on barbecue-cooking TV shows.

Pellet grills are versatile and fast, and they offer better temperature regulation than most traditional grills. One major downside to this cooking method: These grills cannot reach super-hot temperatures like gas grills.

Egg or kamado grill – While charcoalpowered kamado grills, commonly called egg grills, have just recently found their way into American backyards, they have a rich history. The basic design is modeled on the clay cooking vessels first seen during the Chinese Qin Dynasty and then used by the Japanese beginning in the third century.

These grills are all about versatility.

Everything you need is all there in one handy cooker. There’s no need to buy three separate cooking units because you can grill, smoke, or bake all on the same grill. While certainly a nice addition to any culinary tool lineup,

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they can set you back anywhere from $500-$1,500 for a midrange, and up to $5,000, for a high-end model.

You have a CHOICE for Rehab Ask for Conover Nursing & Rehab!

Whatever you choose, make sure it suits your taste and taste buds. Do your homework. It pays to put some time and thought into preparing for your next big cookout.

Our goal is to get you back to those you love and the life you love living.

The secret’s in the sauce. Here are four useful grilling tips: 1. Give your mouth a zing – Season your meat liberally.

Thick cuts of meat need salt and pepper.

2. Give it a rest – Don’t continually poke and flip your meat. The juices will escape and toughen up your meat.

3. Save the best for last – Don’t sauce meat too soon, especially if it’s a sweet sauce. The sauce will burn.

Wait until the very end to coat meat with sauce so the sauce stays where it needs to be.

4. Glaze vegetables with mayo – Coating vegetables with a mayonnaise-based marinade helps create a beautiful crust when grilled.

You are in good hands at Conover Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. After an illness, surgery or injury, our team is dedicated to your recovery and safe transition back home!

• Rehab Wing with Central Gym and Indoor Track • Results Oriented Physical, Speech and Occupational Therapists on Staff • Family Owned & Operated

Conover Nursing & Rehabilitation Center 828.695.8282

www.ConoverNursingandRehab.com

920 4th Street SW • Conover, NC 28613

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• If your homeowner or neighborhood association allows she sheds or outbuildings • How large you’re allowed to build The last thing you’ll want to do is build something and be forced to tear it down later because it wasn’t approved. After you’ve taken care of those things, you can review your options:

1. The pre-built shed The 12’x12’ shed featured in the popular insurance company ad for she sheds is a tricked-out option that can run about $2,500 and $4,000+.

Move Over Man-Cave Dwellers Make Room for the She Shed

By Shirley Moore | Photos by Wes Stearns with Artist Eye Photography

After a roller-coaster day at work, rushhour traps you in your car for three hours, you burn dinner, the dog drags the trash through the living room, a news alert interrupts your favorite nighttime TV show.

Then, to top it off, your child reminds you that you volunteered to bake cookies for her entire class tomorrow. Final straw!

Wouldn’t it be nice to run away from all the day’s stresses and hide out? Now you can, in your very own she shed. A she shed serves the same purpose as a man-cave. It’s a place to escape the madness. Since the dawn of time, men have escaped to their own little sanctuaries. But in recent years, women have gotten in on the action. “She sheds are great places to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life for a bit of calmness or to read, relax, and reflect,” said Jenny Pippin, a local architect who has designed she sheds, including her own. “It can be a sacred place and a place to express your creativity.”

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When it takes more than Calgon to take you away When we think of she sheds, most of us think of detached buildings—garages or an actual on-site storage shed. The truth is, anyplace where you can get away for a while and focus on YOU can work as a she shed. Jenny has made her she shed a real home away from home. She and her husband even host small concerts there.

“Mine has a recliner, drawing board, a café table and chairs, a bed, storage, a blanket chest, and it also stores all the many pillows and cushions I put on the deck furniture when I share it with friends,” she shared. “We also have electricity running to it, so we have lights, a ceiling fan, and outlets to plug in a coffee maker, electric skillet, and amplifiers for the bands.”

You can purchase a prebuilt storage shed from a local shed builder, online retailer, or a hardware store.

They’re much more stylish than what you would expect, with windows, lofts, and plenty of workspace. If you already own a shed, it doesn’t take much to convert it to a calming oasis – just a little grit, determination, elbow grease, and maybe a few coats of paint.

2. The she shed kit Not interested in converting an existing shed? Building one from a kit may be your next-best option.

But don’t expect it to be cheaper. A kit with good-quality, sturdy materials can run well over $3,000. The variety is mind-boggling—farm style, ranch, Victorian, barn-style.

It all depends on your taste.

You can purchase kits from retailers online. In general, the kit will include: the wood (boards), windows, doors, shingles, and flooring. Each kit is different, so make sure to check what yours includes.

3. Scratch-built shed Before deciding on your she shed, you The scratch-built shed might be should complete these steps first. Find out: the right fit if you’re concerned • If you need a permit for a detached about durability and have the time building for such an ambitious project.

Check out your local hardware store for the materials and search online for plans.

You can even find do-it-yourself instructions on YouTube. Remember, the big drawback to building your own she shed is time. It could take weeks to build your dream home-awayfrom-home. Make sure you’re prepared for the long haul.

And if you’re not too handy with a hammer, you can always consult a contractor, like Jenny Pippin. She’s built plenty of them. “She sheds are certainly popular now, and we’re seeing more of our clients wanting to incorporate them into the master plan of their properties, as well,” she said.

Don’t let a strict budget stop you If you’re on a razor-thin budget—or have no budget at all—you can create a she shed from an empty bedroom, storage room, a sunroom, or even a large closet. All you need is a little bit of imagination, some paint, decorations, and the willingness to think outside the box—or the room. Just remember not to take the she shed Friend Judy Jandora hanging out at Jenny’s shed. Jenny Pippin relaxes with her name too literally. It’s all what you make it! kitty Willow. The side covered deck is used for lounging and as a stage for bands.

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Expand Your Horizons With an Outdoor Addition

S

By Shirley Moore

ince we’ve been staying at home a lot lately, you’ve probably knocked some “honey-do” projects off your list—painting, gardening, sprucing up. Have you dreamed about turning your outdoors into a summer haven?

Imagine vacationing in your backyard, in your new sunroom, on a new deck, or by your new pool.

Before you contact contractors, let’s see how much home value an outdoor addition will generate. ©iStockphoto.com | Elenathewise

It’s going swimmingly One of the biggest-ticket options is a swimming pool. Pools add excitement, built-in recreation, and a fun party spot.

Cost and value added: Average pool cost is about $40,000. Real estate experts estimate a 14’x28’ inground concrete pool potentially adds 5% to 8% to your home’s value. You’ll realize a $20,000 to $32,000 increase on a $400,000 property.

Things to consider: Always consider maintenance, utility, and repair costs. If you decide to sell, attractiveness to potential homebuyers is important—some may not want one. “Pools are nice, but a negative response could cut your potential buyers in half.” said Shane Greene, a Hickory real estate agent. Investigate liability, too. Some homeowners’ insurance covers swimming pool, and some don’t.

The bottom line: Ask before you invest.

Deck the halls Decks provide additional entertaining space and a private family spot for relaxing.

Cost and value added: Deck size is a consideration. Professionally built, pressured-treated wood decks start at about $15 a square foot, which becomes $35 a square foot with composite materials. Recent reports indicate spending 28

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$11,000 will only result in resale value boost of $9,000—an 82% ROI. Things to consider: For short-term homeowners, a deck may not be the best investment. Also, wooden desks require considerable maintenance—you must treat and stain regularly to keep it pristine and sound.

Come sit a spell on the porch Front porches add curbside charm. For Southerners, it’s a serene place to sip iced tea and watch the world go by.

Cost and value added: Average porch costs are between $4,600 to $22,000 for a 200-square-foot porch, depending on material and labor costs. You can expect about 84% ROI. Some locations are more suitable for outdoor living, so your value increase can vary.

Things to consider: A porch may be worth it if your neighbors all have one.

If your home doesn’t, that could decrease resale value. Alternatively, if your neighborhood is mostly porch-less, you may not see a large return.

Sunny side up, please A sunroom adds square footage and value to your home and provides a yearround, nature-inspired gathering space.

Cost and value added: Sunrooms cost

from $8,000 to $80,000. You can expect to recoup about 50% ROI. The average cost is just over $30,000—heat, airconditioning, and insulation boost the total. A three-season space typically isn’t insulated or heated; however, a four-season sunroom is. These rooms are built from sturdier materials and operate like any other room in your home.

Things to consider: A sunroom has a smaller price tag than conventional room additions. They run cheaper because they often use existing bases, like concrete patios or decks and have opaque roofs rather than shingles.

Looking for a homerun?

Of course, if you want to see the most added value, adding an outdoor kitchen can get the best bang for the buck.

“Kitchens typically provide the most return on investment in any home, so if you pair a kitchen with the outdoors, it’s a can’t-miss,” Shane says. “Anytime you add outdoor entertaining space, it’s a good thing, and kitchens offer the highest return.” Homes with outdoor kitchens can potentially see 100% to 200% return on investment.

Regardless of your home improvement choices, adding outdoor entertainment space is one that will improve your family’s quality of life and provide years of enjoyment for generations to come.

Welcomes

Todd L. Fridley, DO, FACOS Dr. Fridley received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine in Blacksburg, Virginia, and completed his residency as Chief Surgical Resident at Grandview Medical Center in Dayton, Ohio. Carolina Surgery & Cancer Center is proud to welcome Dr. Fridley as part of their surgical team, and his family to the Hickory area.

Pictured above from left to right: Susan Pabst, MD, FACS; Todd L. Fridley, DO, FACOS; & Bryan McCluer, MD, FACS

“The level of trust given to a surgeon by his or her patients is something I believe is earned with the care provided before, during, and after their procedure. I strive to provide excellent care in each phase of treatment in an effort to gain and maintain that unique level of trust while obtaining good outcomes for my patients.”

1501 Tate Blvd SE, Suite 202 • Hickory, NC 28602 • Tel: 828-485-2707 • Fax: 828-485-2708 • carolinasurgerycenter.com HICKORY LIVING • JUNE 2020

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