Hickory Living Magazine November 2021 by Oasis Publishing, Inc.

Complimentary November 2021

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR

Giving

On the Cover

Connecting Communities Connecting With Businesses

pages 23–27

page 12 HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

KEEP HOME IN THE PALM OF YOUR HAND

Being away from home doesn’t have to mean being away from the people and moments you love. Stay connected wherever you are with the latest smartphones and unlimited data plans on our fast, reliable nationwide network. In store, online, or on our My CWW app—stop by Carolina West Wireless today and discover the difference better connection makes.

Carolina West Wireless. Go stay connected. HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

contents

NOVEMBER 2021 FEATURES 12 • COVER STORY Carolina West Wireless Connecting Communities– Connecting With Businesses

18 • BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Physician’s Plan Weight Loss+Wellness Improve Your Health And Appearance

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

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

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR GIVING 24 • Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry Hope, Help, and Healing For All In The Most Need 24 • Women’s Resource Center Empowering Women

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

IN THIS ISSUE 8 • Welcome To The November Issue

26 Hickory

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

www.HickoryLivingMagazine.com 4

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

16 • Financially Preparing For Divorce 26 • Being Grateful Makes You Happier 31 • What’s Cookin’ Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie

Hickory Living reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing. Submissions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Hickory Living assumes no responsibility or liability for the information, services, products, claims, statements, accuracy, or intended or unintended results of any advertiser, editorial contributors, company, professional corporation, business or service provider herein this publication. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

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

contributors

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kristie Darling • Kathy Wheeler Blair E. Cody, III

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Photography by GiGi

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

Welcome to the

November Issue By Kathy Wheeler

©iStockphoto.com | Marina Gorevaya

ovember kicks off the holiday season! It is filled with families getting together to count their blessings and share a meal, shopping for Christmas presents, and decorating. Don’t forget to remember our men and women who have served in the armed forces on November 11th – Veterans Day. You can add their service to your list of things to be grateful for. If you know a veteran or someone who is serving, let them know how much you appreciate their sacrifice. We encourage you to shop local this holiday. When you spend your money at local, small businesses, it helps our community, our economy, and the shop owners. Many times you get better service and you can actually see what you are purchasing or try it on before you make the commitment. When shopping online, computers can’t capture the feel of a fabric, the quality of an electronic, or even the exact color of items. Part of the joy of the season is giving gifts. Are you looking for a non-profit or charity to support? If you can spare the time, volunteer and/or support them with a financial donation. Maybe you could provide a service or offer your talents. We have a few good ones to consider on pages 24-26.

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

The Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting will be held the Friday before Thanksgiving on November 19th. Join in the fun and kick off the holidays in downtown Hickory! Our cover story this month features Carolina West Wireless. My family and I have used their cell service for years and have been very pleased with the coverage. Their story begins on page 12. Physician’s Plan is our business spotlight this month. If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to lose weight or maybe you want some anti-aging treatments, read their story starting on page 18. We are tallying the votes for Best of the Foothills and will announce the winners in our December issue. Thank you for voting and supporting Hickory’s local businesses! This Thanksgiving, we are grateful to our advertisers for your confidence in our magazine. Advertisers make it possible for our readers to receive Hickory Living for free! We are also grateful to our readers. Thank you for reading Hickory Living. We wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving. I hope your holiday is filled with a life of much gratitude, good health, and the love of family and friends. Enjoy the November issue!

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

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HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

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on the cover

Connecting Communities – Connecting With Businesses

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

By Kristie Darling

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Carolina West Wireless is a unique wireless carrier that serves the greater Catawba Valley with a heart for their local communities. In addition to all types of phones, tablets, and connected devices and with competitive plans for individuals and families, Carolina West Wireless Business Pro’s dedicated account executives are trained specifically to meet the needs of any local business. The company is locally owned—headquartered in Wilkesboro—with a dedication to making wireless voice and data plans easy and affordable for individuals, families, and businesses. “We’re a better local alternative to the major carriers,” said Todd Elledge, director of marketing, as he explained Carolina West Wireless’ mission and vision. “We provide great value and national coverage with a customized, regional focus that makes one-on-one customer service its top priority. The bigger providers just can’t match that.” Their extensive network branches out to 11 surrounding counties: Allegheny, Alexander, Ashe, Avery, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, Rutherford, Surry, Watauga, and Wilkes. With over 30 convenient retail locations, both company and independently owned retail stores, and about 140 employees in management, sales and service, the company has seen considerable growth, success, and forward-looking technical advancements since its inception in 1991. Shopping local for your personal or business wireless network needs has never been easier. A SAFE COVID RESPONSE “The personal support we provide is second to none,” Jackie Mallory, chief marketing and sales officer, shared. “We have a long-standing reputation for quality service, and while COVID-19 has changed how we do business, we’re true to our brand and remain loyal to the community and our customers. Our recent COVID Customer Assistance Program was a huge success. We offered bonus minutes and unlimited data to customers who needed to stay connected. This benefitted customers with data needs for school related distance learning, remote work, or those who just needed to stay in touch during such a trying time. Thousands of customers took advantage of the program. Carolina West Wireless stores are open with customer safety protocols that include abiding by state and local directives. Safety is the number one priority.

Photos:

On the cover–Chasity Shumate – Carolina West Wireless Business Pro Representative (Photo by Debbie Church - Photography by GiGi) Opposite page–Chasity brings the customer service standards that the company is known for to the Catawba Valley business community. (Photo by Debbie Church - Photography by GiGi) Pictured above–Bark Mobile is the prepaid brand for customers looking for a value-oriented, no contract/no credit check wireless solution.

Matthew Stamper, director of sales, and Adria Lycoff, store manager, are committed to providing an exceptional customer experience. (Photos by Shane Greene Photography)

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

EXPANDED CLEARSTREAM NETWORK Whether you’re in town or a rural area out in the country, Clearstream can keep you streaming and connected. “Clearstream is our high-speed, wireless Internet brand,” Todd explained. “We’ve recently expanded and dedicated new resources to this service, now providing more and better high-speed Internet connectivity to our region.” Why wireless? “Some families or businesses are looking for an Internet alternative or they just aren’t satisfied with their current provider,” Todd said. “Or they just don’t have any way to connect. Clearstream high-speed Internet can solve that.” Clearstream Unlimited Data Internet plans are only $40 a month. Clayton Handy is the newly hired field service representative. It’s his job to provide quick, thorough sales and service in our area to keep his customers up and running at all times. “This addition to our sales team offers the personal customer service we are known for, as well as sameday Internet activations for our customers,” Todd said.

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS Carolina West Wireless is dedicated to serving the business community. Chasity Shumate is the Carolina West Wireless Business Pro representative serving the Catawba Valley. A Lenoir-Rhyne University alum, the city of Hickory is close to her heart.

Photos, top to bottom:

• Take the Clearstream wireless Internet service for a test drive – right in the store!

• Clayton Handy, Clearstream’s field service representative, can bring the internet to you with same day set up. (Photos by Shane Greene Photography) 14

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

In addition to traditional wireless products and services, Chasity offers consultation on one of the newest B2B initiatives from Carolina West—IoT Connect. This platform offers Internet of Things connectivity that provides great operational efficiency options for small to medium sized businesses. “Imagine if a restaurant experiences a refrigeration problem—they’d lose temperature control resulting in loss and damage. Same with florists and pharmacies,” Todd explained. “The IoT Connect sensors will alert business owners of the problem and can prevent a serious loss of inventory. Our reliance on IoT is 24/7, and it’s an area of massive growth beyond traditional wireless—in agriculture, utilities, healthcare, and so much more. Carolina West is on the cutting edge of IoT technology, and our customers benefit every day.”

Photo:

The retail floor of the Carolina West Wireless store has all the latest wireless devices and accessories in a warm, welcoming environment. (Photo by Shane Greene Photography)

5G FOR FASTER CONNECTIVITY AND BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Carolina West Wireless offers reliable wireless service where you need it the most—right here in Western North Carolina. Plus, reliable, nationwide service is part of the package. “We’ve expanded our 4G LTE network,” Todd said, “and 5G is coming beginning this year and will continue to roll out in 2022.” 5G allows for faster connectivity, seamless streaming, and greater throughput. That’s a win for consumers and businesses alike. “Our 5G network and technology are the gateway to the future. All of these expansions and improvements in technology mean we’re able to offer more solutions, faster,” Jackie continued. “We take our role in helping businesses and individuals get the best service, data speed, and connectivity possible. Our main focus is our customers. It’s important for us to support the local community and businesses around us.” EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN WIRELESS Looking for a new iPhone 13 or popular Android model? A smarter watch? The latest iPad? Carolina West Wireless has them all. You’ll find all you need in all connected devices in Carolina West’s stores. “We’re excited to offer these next-generation iPhones to our customers,” Jackie said. “With the newest, competitively priced products and devices, an assortment affordable data rate plans, unbeatable customer service, and our robust network, you will fully enjoy your wireless experience every day. The value you get in our products is totally enhanced by the personalized service you’ll receive.”

HOLIDAY DEALS AND SPECIALS “There’s no need to wait until the last minute,” Todd told me. “Our Black Friday deals start November first!” You will find the best in value on the latest devices, including devices from Samsung, the iPhone 13 , iPads, and the Apple Cellular Watch Series 7. Already have a device you love? Bring it to Carolina West Wireless and get a $250 credit. 30th anniversary bonus savings, FREE Roku devices, and $100 e-Cards from Fanatics.com are just a few of the other great Black Friday and holiday surprises for qualifying new line activations. You’ll have to check it out. A COMMITMENT TO GIVING BACK “Carolina West Wireless has always been an excellent community partner,” Jackie Mallory concluded. She sums up the Carolina West story very succinctly: “If you’re looking for value and personalized sales and customer service by a reputable local wireless phone company, go no further than Carolina West Wireless.” The company is active in all the counties it serves and regularly gets requests for financial assistance from organizations, schools, and charities that they honor whenever possible. “It’s the way we operate,” Jackie added. At Carolina West Wireless you will be well-served by good people, excellent products, and responsive service with all the bells and whistles you want and need. Visit www.carolinawest.com for all the details. It’s pretty easy, actually.

(800) 235-5007 2041 US Hwy 70 SE Hickory, NC 28602 www.carolinawest.com HICKORY LIVING •NOVEMBER 2021

Financially Preparing for Divorce By Blair E. Cody, III, Attorney at Law

While there is no way to fully prepare for a divorce and all the changes it brings, there are some things you can do to minimize the blow financially. The following is a list of five things that can help with the financial fallout from divorce:

©iStockphoto.com | dragana991

1. Make sure that you have access to credit. Make sure you have a credit card in your name and increase the debt limit. With the unexpected financial turns associated with divorce, access to credit and an ability to pay bills as they come due are essential to your post-divorce survival. 2. Have your own bank accounts. If you know that you are heading for a separation, go ahead and open new checking and savings accounts solely in your name. While you may still have access to your old joint account, these new accounts will not only allow you to protect your money from unwanted withdrawals, but it will also make things like direct depositing your paycheck after separation easier if you already have an account established.

spouse own several vehicles, you may 3. Along with establishing your own aclook to take the one without any debt counts, make sure that you have some expense when you separate. Another money in those accounts. It may be area where you can minimize your months before you are able to get into monthly debt load is by cutting out court and appear in front of a judge, recurring expenses that are luxuries so make sure that you have enough and not necessities, for example, club money put back to meet your basic memberships, massage memberships, expenses. Also, you may need to have monthly mail memberships, like a talk with some of your immediate Stitch Fix, etc. family members, parents, or close friends to discuss whether they will 5. Assess your sources of income. You be able to help you financially if you may need to have a conversation with find yourself in a bind. your employer to secure more hours at work or maybe a more flexible sched4. Get rid of debt before your separaule. You can also start exploring other tion. If you know that a separation is income opportunities, like a second job forthcoming, it may be wise to get rid or something you can do at home to of some items that carry debt. One earn some extra income. Monthly cash example might be a car. If you have a flow will be something you will need car with a big car payment, you may to consider and determine where and want to look at getting a less expenhow you can make up any potential sive car to lower or eliminate that shortfalls. monthly expense. If you and your

There are no golden rules when it comes to preparing for a separation because each relationship is different, with its own set of complications. However, assessing your situation in advance and planning financially for your separation is a wise decision that is worth your time and will pay dividends down the road. Finally, I would advise that you speak with an attorney that has a focus in family law before leaving a marriage. An experienced attorney can help you navigate your course when leaving a relationship. 16

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

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.

Helton, Cody & Associates, PLLC

With the merger of law offices, Lyndon R. Helton and Blair E. Cody, III now offer a broader range of law expertise. AREAS OF PRACTICE: • Divorce • Personal Injury • Workers Compensation • Criminal Defense • Traffic Violations • Social Security Disability • DWIs • Wills & Estates • Child Custody and Support

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 HICKORY LIVING LIVING • NOVEMBER • APRIL 2021

business spotlight

Photos,

Left–Physician’s Plan Team Seated: Medical Estheticians Britney Ayers and Heather Cody Standing: Thaedra Robinson, clinical coordinator; Jill Cline, clinical coordinator; Shaffney Beaver, clinical director; and Heather Mizell, wellness coordinator Opposite page, top to bottom: • Heather Mitzell provides oneon-one nutritional counseling. • Britney Ayers administering our newest Celluma treatment. • Heather Cody performing a custom spray tan. • Medical Estheticians Britney Ayers and Heather Cody

Improve Your Health and Appearance By Kristie Darling | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

“At Physician’s Plan Weight Loss + Wellness, your options for making important health and beauty improvements go well beyond losing weight. “We’re proud of our proprietary one-toone weight loss plan and very pleased with the amazing results our patients continue to achieve,” said clinical director Shaffney Beaver. “Staying focused on our patient’s success is what we are all about—this is why we we’re voted BEST of Catawba County 2021 for: BEST Place to Lose Weight, BEST Medical Spa, and FINEST in Aesthetics. “We’ve doubled our space and increased our team to help more patients look and feel their best. Now we can provide more services and meet the demand for aesthetics, med spa treatments, and other procedures our patients wanted. Come check out our new space and see what we can do for you.” Shaffney said. 18

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

Heather Mizell, wellness coordinator, is the newest addition to the Physician’s Plan family. Her focus is weight loss and nutrition counseling. “Getting your weight under control is where your wellness journey starts, and an individualized approach is why our plan works! The success stories of our patients losing and maintaining their weight loss are truly amazing.” Heather said. Physician’s Plan provides support, information, and individual guidance with your health results in mind. Personal counseling helps you set goals, discover what drives you, and teaches you how to overcome your challenges along the way. LOOKING YOUR BEST EVERYDAY— NEW SPA SERVICES ADDED “We work hard to bring in the best medical grade products and services for

our patients,” Shaffney said. “As our Physician’s Plan office has grown, so have our services.” Alongside Heather Cody, medical esthetician, Physician’s Plan has recently hired a second medical esthetician, Britney Ayers. Britney is a seasoned medical esthetician who also specializes in assisting with aesthetics and CO2 laser treatments. Celluma Phototherapy — Whether you are looking to relieve chronic pain and inflammation, diminish wrinkles, stimulate hair growth, or eliminate stubborn acne, the benefits of Celluma treatments can transform your cellular health. “This new technology is one of the best methods to reduce the lines and wrinkles that everyone develops as we age,” Shaffney explained. “This antiaging treatment uses specific, scientifically proven wavelengths that increase

collagen and elastin.” Enhanced skin texture and smoothness are the results of this safe and effective low-level light therapy. Custom Airbrush Tanning — “I am excited to have recently added custom tanning to our list of services. We customize every tan to enhance each individual’s skin type.” Shaffney said and noted that the solutions they use contain organic and naturally derived ingredients. The proprietary blends are enriched with aloe vera and vitamins A, C, and E. These ingredients enhance not only your color but also your total skin health. “Skip the sun damage and go straight to being beautifully bronzed—we’re here when you want to ‘glow-up’ your look,” Shaffney told me. C02 Laser Treatments — Carbon dioxide fractionated lasers are used for skin resurfacing to minimize sun damage, wrinkles, scars, acne, and other superficial skin conditions. By stimulating collagen, the overall skin tone and texture are improved…younger, brighter skin is the result! MORE SPA BEAUTY OPTIONS Wherever you are in your lifestyle journey—actively losing or simply maintaining a healthy weight, Physician’s Plan is here to support you on your journey to wellness and aging gracefully. Treat yourself to a custom-tailored, medical-grade facial treatment to target your skin concerns. Our estheticians are medically trained to formulate a treatment plan to accommodate your skincare needs. Physician’s Plan offers microneedling, chemical peels, dermaplaning, laser treatments, waxing, body contouring, and professional product lines you will love. Call now to book a free consultation! Botox and fillers can create a more youthful look by diminishing wrinkles, frown lines, crow’s feet, and plumping your lips. “Our forward-thinking providers believe less is more and strive to create an aesthetic process that allows patients to look rested and refreshed,” Shaffney continued. “We love natural-looking results.” HOLIDAYS ARE COMING ~ ARE YOU READY? “Along with offering custom spray tans now, our Twelve Days of Giftmas is always a hit!” Shaffney smiled. “We have holiday packages and special offers through the end of the year. Don’t forget, we offer gift certificates—perfect to give—and wonderful to receive.” Begin your journey with Physician’s Plan to lose weight, feel great, and simply be a more beautiful you. Shaffney and her professional team of providers, counselors, and estheticians are there for you. This one easy step could change your life forever—for the better. Physician’s Plan Weight Loss + Wellness 1706 US Hwy 70 SE, Hickory, NC 828-485-2833 | www.physiciansplan.com HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR

Giving

©iStockphoto.com | CentralITAlliance

November and December are all about being thankful and giving. At Hickory Living, we wanted to highlight some local nonprofits that make our community a better place. So on the following pages, you will find information on what the highlighted organizations do, and how you can help. There are numerous ways you can give on a regular basis that cost almost nothing. If you shop with Amazon, consider choosing a charity and shop AmazonSmile (smile.amazon.com). A portion of your eligible purchases will go to your selected charity. When you go through checkout, either online or in a store, you may have the opportunity to round up to an even dollar in support of a charity. Facebook makes it easy to do a fundraiser for your favorite charity. Small contributions add up and make a huge difference.

Hope, Help, and Healing For All In the Most Need By Kristie Darling

reater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry (GHCCM) takes their mission seriously. It’s clear when you enter their doors that “…in response to God’s call, Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry provides hope, help, and healing for all in most need through service, advocacy, and community support.” The Ministry brings together resources to provide healthcare for the uninsured, food and nutrition, financial and housing assistance, and more to those in crisis. Linda Wade, GHCCM director of development, said, “Our approach is wholistic—whole person care. We strive to address the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of our neighbors—our clients. Physical and emotional well-being with spiritual growth is important to overall wellness.” Staff and volunteers at GHCCM take God’s message to heart every day. During 2020, these dedicated workers served 2,946 neighbors who come to the ministry on a regular basis as services are needed. The Neighbor Engagement Team provided $192,984 in financial assistance, the medical clinic counted 3,666 patient visits, and Nutritional Services distributed food valued at $1,130,500. Founded in 1969 by area churches, GHCCM assists about 2,000 people from a variety of backgrounds and circumstances monthly. These individuals and families fall within 200% of the poverty level guidelines set by the federal government. Many face difficult life issues like drug dependency, emotional and mental challenges, abuse, homelessness, unemployment, disabilities, and inadequate money for day-to-day living. Today, the Ministry’s programs include the Neighbor Engagement Team, the Nutrition Center, Pharmacy, Medical Clinic, the Whole Life Center which offers next-step services to assist neighbors moving out of the poverty cycle toward independence, as well as the thrift store, 31 Thrift and MORE!. NEW BEHAVIORAL HEALTH & WELLNESS INITIATIVE GHCCM reached out to foundations and individuals requesting their support for a new project—the Behavioral Health and Wellness Initiative. They asked for seed funding to make

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

Pictured from left to right: Jane Duralia, RN and peer support specialist; Molly Sain, medical practice administrator; Twanna Bowens, peer support specialist. Community collaboration with other agencies in the area is very important. Photo provided by GHCCM.

it happen. “We are grateful to these foundations and individuals—AlexLee, Inc., Beaver Family Foundation, Corning Inc. Foundation, The Kulynych Family Foundation, TSH Charitable Foundation, and Carol de Perczel—who enabled GHCCM to exceed our goal to begin this new ministry offering,” Linda said with a smile. GHCCM’s Medical Clinic has identified, through Social Determinants of Health screening, that a large number of patients have underlying mental and substance abuse issues that hinder them from creating a more stable life. The need for GHCCM to offer a place on-site to help stabilize a neighbor’s situation became apparent.

The Ministry has hired two certified peer support specialists, Jane Duralia, RN, and Twanna Bowens, who will work in the clinic and the Whole Life Center. These trained specialists, whose life experiences have prepared them to conduct peer support, screening, and outreach, see their work as walking with the patient on their journey. “Personal relationships are often what’s missing,” Molly said. Molly helps define and measure outcomes to ensure that Initiative services are making a difference. Support groups and classes for anger management, building self-esteem, and other personal/social issues will be offered. VOLUNTEERS AT THE HEART GHCCM depends on volunteers to support the day-to-day operations that serve those in most need. “Without volunteers, we couldn’t help our neighbors who come for guidance, financial assistance, housing needs, medical care, needed pharmaceuticals, counseling, and so much more. Because of budget restraints, it would be impossible to hire all the people needed to adequately run the Ministry,” Linda continued. “Volunteers are the heart of GHCCM. We welcome individuals and groups interested in giving back to our community through service.” YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE On November 13th, GHCCM’s Harvest of Hope Walk will kick off National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. It’s one of the important fundraisers coming up…check the website or contact GHCCM for more information. They would love for you to join them in the fight against hunger and homelessness in our community. Learn more at https://hhweek.org. THE NEED IS GREAT Young and old, physically or mentally disabled, folks without marketable job skills, those unable to manage their finances or who can’t provide for themselves and their families—these are the people that Jesus spoke about when he commanded Peter to “feed my sheep...take care of my sheep.” In Matthew 26:11, Jesus says, “The poor you will always have with you.” And especially today, these words remain true.

Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry 31 - 1st Avenue, SE Hickory, NC 28602 Office: (828) 323-7904 www.ccmhickory.org HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

Empowering Women By Kristie Darling

omen’s health, rights, and safety—and the resources necessary to assist those in need—have been in the news a lot, especially since the pandemic changed up so many lives. At Women’s Resource Center in Hickory, these issues are addressed in ways that significantly help women make it—or not. The 35-year-old nonprofit has built a strong, positive reputation as the go-to, one-stop-shop for empowering women who need help. Michelle Morgan has been executive director at WRC going on two years and was development director prior. She’s a long-time advocate for all women and passionate about her work. “Women who are self-sufficient, living on their own, paycheck to paycheck, perhaps with children—they sometimes find themselves in difficult situations,” Michelle explained. “If their car breaks down, and they can’t afford to fix it, they can’t go to work or take their kids to the doctor. They quickly spiral down financially and emotionally. We’re here to help by pointing them in the right direction for help.” CRITICAL PROGRAMS MAKING A DIFFERENCE Today, WRC’s focus on improving women’s quality of life is as strong as ever. “We’re a welcoming, supportive space for women who don’t know where to turn,” Michelle said. “Women come with questions, and our three staff and 16 volunteers are trained to answer them and make referrals to other local organizations that can take assistance to the next level. We’re primarily a resource and referral center taking the guesswork out when you need to know what to do next. WRC is a safe space to talk about your challenges and learn how to improve what’s unstable or unhealthy in life. We listen without judgment, and women receive information and tools needed to strengthen their life. WRC’s life-enriching workshops and events for women, no matter their station in life, empower women psychologically, spiritually, health-wise, and financially. ALL women are welcome!” Womanade was established to help fulfill short-term needs of women experiencing a temporary set-back or financial hardship. “We require a grant request from the applicant where they fully explain their need, and our board selects grant recipients,” Michelle continued. “Grants up to 26

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

$500 are given. We try to meet needs that other organizations don’t. Those turned down aren’t ignored—we step in and refer to other WRC or community resources. We recently helped a woman buy a sewing machine so she could keep working at home…that machine changed her life.” Next grant cycle is November 1 – 15, 2021. Details at www.wrchickory.org. Community Resource Coaching — Life transitions, like divorce, job loss, domestic violence, housing, medical, or financial concerns can cause a woman’s life to unravel and become unstable or dangerous. Women benefit through Community Resource Coaching—getting practical guidance from knowledgeable counselors who help identify problems and recommend a step-by-step plan. Mental Health Counseling — Uninsured and under-insured women often need mental health services without the means to get it. At WRC, women from Catawba, Burke, Caldwell, and Alexander counties can get life-changing counseling from a licensed professional or when available, from Lenoir-Rhyne interns who are supervised by the counseling program supervisors.” By appointment, 828-322-6333. Pantry with a Purpose — When a woman can’t supply her family’s basic necessities—perhaps she had to flee a home stricken with domestic violence or lost her job—she needs essential items that food stamps don’t cover…hygiene

products, cleaning supplies. WRC’s Pantry is there to help. Emergency kits for immediate need and welcome home kits that help set up a household for those previously unhoused are supplied. With no strings attached, women can get menstrual hygiene products. Easily pick up off the porch, 24/7, or walk-in during open hours. Pantry donations are always needed— the Wish List is at WRC’s AmazonSmile Wish List, where you can buy and send directly to WRC. Donations can be dropped off at WRC. COMING UP “We’re not just a crisis center,” Michelle told me. “We’re an enrichment center. Our workshops and support groups range from Legal Aspects of Separation/ Divorce; Emotional Mental Health Support; Hickory OMIT-Fibromyalgia &

Chronic Pain to Piedmont Investment Group, financially literacy workshops, and Catawba Valley Friends (Quakers) meetings. Several AA groups meet at WRC—Adult Children of Alcoholics, Keep It Simple, and Rainbow Recovery.” YOU CAN HELP AND GET HELP Giving Tuesday is November 30th…but don’t wait to get involved with a monetary pledge or donation of your time or needed items. Volunteers are critical. COVID depletes resources, and the need is great. WRC does not receive government support—these women depend on continued individual, corporate, and community donations to help empower other women in our community in critical need. Consider supporting WRC at the November 6th silent auction sponsored by Vintage Blue: Purveyors of Vintage Art at their grand opening. Welcome this

new local business and bid on locally donated art. All proceeds benefit WRC. You will be glad you participated! Sarah Prencipe is WRC board chair. She knows the difference your time, energy, and donations can make. “It’s a privilege serving on the WRC board and take part in the Center’s efforts to help women care for themselves and their families. I’m so appreciative of Michelle, her staff and volunteers who invest in these women and thereby invest in our community.” Get involved or get help…either way, it will change your life. Follow Women’s Resource Center on Facebook and Instagram or contact Michelle Morgan at: director@wrchickory.org, 828.322.6333.

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HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

Being Grateful

Makes You Happier

is perfect. We all have ups and downs, good times and bad, achievements and failure. We have made mistakes and have regrets. However, we have a choice in what we focus on, how we remember our past, and how we approach our future. We can choose to concentrate on making positive memories in the present.

By Kathy Wheeler

Here are a few tips to increase your happiness: Celebrate other people’s success! Being happy for others who succeed and admiring their talents are healthy attitudes. However, using their success to measure your own or being envious is not. If you are competitive, use that to challenge yourself toward improvement instead of trying to keep up with someone else’s accomplishments. Doing things YOU find fulfilling and enjoyable is where you will find success and happiness. Limit your contact with negative people. Attitudes are contagious. There is a saying we’ve all heard – misery loves company. Avoid becoming a dumping ground for other people’s problems. Don’t participate in their negativity. That doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t be there for each other, or lend an ear to a friend who is struggling with an issue, it just means we should spend more time with those people who choose to be happy, regardless.

It is impossible to be happy without having an attitude of gratefulness for what we have, the people in our lives, and the simple pleasures we enjoy. It’s the little things that make us happiest. The frequency of positive feelings is more important than the intensity of those feelings. The big accomplishments are fleeting. They make us happy for awhile, but then we adapt to the new milestone before moving on to another goal. The key to happiness is enjoying the day-to-day blessings and the journey. A tactic that always works is focusing on what is positive with a grateful heart, while attempting to change what we don’t like in our lives. Even disappointment can become a positive motivator for change when we use the experience as a source of knowledge. Someone recently said to me that depression comes from living in the past, and anxiety comes from living in the future, but peace comes when we live in the present. No ones’ life 28

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

Have a sense of humor. When it comes to present or past mistakes, don’t take yourself too seriously. Choose to remember your successes, and laugh at your failures. Give yourself permission to try AND to fail, knowing that both bring you a little closer to success. Give back. Do things that improve the lives of others. The feelings you get from helping and sharing are your reward and bring more purpose into your life. Count your blessings. Don’t take simple pleasures for granted. Take time to acknowledge the small things that make you smile each day. Don’t get so busy that you miss any opportunity to feel positive and grateful. When you sit down to dinner this Thanksgiving holiday, take a look at those around you and give thanks for the simple pleasures, the people you love, and the awesome life that you enjoy.

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

What's Cooking?! Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie

Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie 1 refrigerated pie crust, (from

14.1-ounce package)

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 3 tablespoons milk 4 eggs 3 tablespoons butter, melted 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract 1 cup dark corn syrup 1 cup sugar ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground allspice ¼ teaspoon salt 1 ½ cups pecan halves Directions: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line 9-inch deep dish pie plate with pie crust. Bake 7 minutes. Remove crust from oven. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F. Meanwhile, microwave chocolate chips and milk in medium microwavable bowl on HIGH 1 to 1 1/2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Pour chocolate evenly over crust. Beat eggs in large bowl. Add remaining ingredients; mix well. Slowly pour mixture over chocolate layer. Place ring of foil around edges of crust to prevent overbrowning. Bake 55 to 60 minutes or until filling is puffed and center is still soft enough to move when shaken gently. Cool completely on wire rack.

Holiday-Flavored Whipped Cream

Try these flavored whipped creams using McCormick extract and spices. For each recipe start with one cup of heavy cream, add the remaining ingredients, and beat with an electric mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Vanilla: Add 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Candy Cane: Add 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1/2

teaspoon pure vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon pure peppermint extract Cocoa Cinnamon: Add 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Eggnog: Add 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon imitation rum extract Recipe and photo courtesy of McCormick. For more holiday-inspired recipes, visit www.McCormick.com HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021

HICKORY LIVING • NOVEMBER 2021