CELEBRATING ADVENTURE & EXPLORATION

by ROBIN SHUPE KELLER

International Geocaching Day is a special occasion celebrated annually on the third Saturday of August which is the 19th this year. Geocaching, a modern-day treasure hunt, combines outdoor exploration, technology, and community engagement. This article delves into the significance of International Geocaching Day and the exciting world of geocaching. Join us as we explore the thrill of the hunt, the benefits of geocaching, and how you can get started in this global adventure.

INTERNATIONAL GEOCACHING DAY HOLDS GREAT SIGNIFICANCE FOR GEOCACHERS WORLDWIDE. HERE’S A LIST OF WHY THIS DAY IS WORTH CELEBRATING:

Community Bonding: Geocaching brings together a diverse community of adventure enthusiasts, both locally and internationally. International Geocaching Day provides an opportunity to connect with fellow geocachers, share experiences, and foster a sense of camaraderie.

Promoting Outdoor Exploration: Geocaching encourages individuals and families to venture outdoors and explore their surroundings in a fun and engaging way. It motivates people to discover hidden gems, natural landmarks, and lesser-known areas in their communities.

Technology and Adventure: Geocaching combines technology, such as GPS devices or smartphone apps, with the thrill of a treasure hunt. It adds an element of excitement and mystery, enhancing the overall adventure experience.

Education and Learning: Geocaches often provide educational opportunities by highlighting historical sites, cultural landmarks, or natural phenomena. Geocachers can learn about the places they visit and gain a deeper appreciation for the world around them.

#1 Learn the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the concept of geocaching. Understand that geocaches are hidden containers, ranging in size from tiny to large, that are hidden in various locations around the world. These caches are found using GPS coordinates or hints provided on geocaching websites or apps.

#2 Join a Geocaching Platform: Sign up on a geocaching platform, such as Geocaching. com or the Geocaching® app. These platforms provide access to geocache listings, maps, and tools to help you navigate the geocaching world.

#3 Find Geocaches: Use the platform’s search function to find geocaches in your area or places you plan to visit. Each listing provides important information, including difficulty level, terrain, and hints to assist you in your search. Select geocaches that match your experience level and interests.

#4 Prepare for the Adventure: Before setting out, equip yourself with essential geocaching tools, such as a GPS device or a smartphone with a geocaching app. Bring a pen or pencil to sign logbooks found in the geocaches. Consider wearing appropriate clothing, footwear, and bringing any necessary supplies for the outdoor adventure.

#5 Respect the Environment and Abide by Geocaching Etiquette: Leave no trace, respect private property, and re-hide geocaches as you found them. Avoid drawing unnecessary attention to the geocache to preserve the game’s integrity.

#6 Log Your Finds: After finding a geocache, log your visit on the geocaching platform. Share your experiences, challenges, and any memorable moments you encountered during the hunt. Logging your finds allows you to track your progress and contribute to the geocaching community.

#7 Engage with the Community: Connect with fellow geocachers through online forums, social media groups, or local geocaching events. Share your discoveries, seek advice, and learn from experienced geocachers. Engaging with the community adds another layer of enjoyment to the geocaching experience.

International Geocaching Day celebrates the spirit of adventure, exploration, and community. It encourages individuals of all ages to step outdoors, embrace technology, and embark on a thrilling treasure hunt. Whether you are a seasoned geocacher or new to the game, this global event offers an opportunity to connect with like-minded enthusiasts, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories. So, mark your calendar, equip yourself with GPS devices or smartphone apps, and join the worldwide geocaching community in celebrating International Geocaching Day.

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As The Untouchables in Denver, NC, begins commemorating an inspired 40 years in business, owner Scott Gilleland is proud of the accomplishment on many levels!

Of course there’s an amazing menu that never disappoints, and a genuine camaraderie between the staff and the community—but the one thing Scott is most proud of is the restaurant’s wonderful, loyal customers.

“We have the best customers in the world!” he explains. “Seeing second and third generation customers come in with their children and grandchildren is so special—we feel like we are part of those families.”

Scott began his career at The Untouchables as a busboy in 1987—four years after the restaurant opened in 1983 – and as its owner, he is continuing the tradition of delicious cuisine and impeccable service the Lake Norman community has come to respect. The restaurant originally opened in August of 1983, thanks to three local businessmen—Richard Howard, Charles Connor, and Marshall Digh. Jeff Bolick (owner of Boxcar Grille in Statesville), and also Scott’s mentor, later became an operating partner, and Scott went on to become a partner in 1997. He was able to become sole proprietor in 2004, and the much-loved tradition goes on!

by MARTIE EMORY, photography by CARRIE ALLEN

“I’m very proud The Untouchables has been able to maintain its presence in the Maiden/ Denver area for 40 years,” says Scott.

He also attributes that success to continuously giving back to the community, an effort he’s been devoted to since the restaurant first opened. The Untouchables donates to schools, churches, non-profits, and those in need, with long-time restaurant manager, Hope Wise, organizing each charity event. Community spirit runs deep here, and the staff takes that relationship very seriously!

“I’m very proud we are able to support our local schools by hosting spirit nights at the restaurant,” says Scott. Police officers, EMS, and firefighters also receive discounts, as a way of giving thanks, while giving back.

There’s never a shortage of goodness on the menu either (including the best pizza in town!), and Scott knows another key factor in the restaurant’s success is their collection of made-fromscratch recipes, and the use of only the freshest ingredients.

“Every day we start off with a bag of flour and make our own dough!” he shares. “We also make our pizza sauce, spaghetti sauce, and fresh-cut all our vegetables. Of course we handpatty our half-pound burgers, and we make our own salads and dressings for the salad bar. Pretty much anything that can be made in-house, we make right here!”

Scott and The Untouchables team are planning several events and special promotions for their 40th anniversary, so stay up-to-date with their Facebook page. They want to invite you and your family to be part of every fun—and delicious—opportunity!

Visit the restaurant at 6020 S NC16, Maiden, NC 28650 at the Intersection of Business NC 16 and NC 150, 704-483-9737, for dine-in or take-out—and offer Scott and the staff a hearty congratulations! Visit their website to check out the menu at untouchablespizza. com. Restaurant hours are Monday through Thursday, 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Friday through Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.