Hickory Living January 2026 by Lake Norman Currents

January 2026 Complimentary

On the Cover

page 10

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

Thank you for trusting us with one of your family’s greatest assets ... YOUR HOME.

! r a e Y w e N y p p Ha TRAE STOKES REALTOR®/Owner 828.312.1996 Trae@StokesReGroup.com

AMANDA STOKES REALTOR®/Owner 828.234.9553 Amanda@StokesReGroup.com

EACH OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED

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contents

January 2026

MacAdam Smith

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

FEATURE 10 • COVER STORY Joan Everett Killian Team: Local Love Established community roots foster exceptional service

IN THIS ISSUE

Shannon O’Donnell

Advertising Director ShannonHickoryLiving@gmail.com 704-650-1278

6 • Welcome to the

January Issue

16 • Hickory Happenings

Ongoing & Special Events 20 • American Heart Association

Lauren Platts

Editor CurrentsLauren@gmail.com

Welcomes Roger Young

Carson Coleman

Distribution Manager carson.hickoryliving@gmail.com (828) 455-4200

M AG A Z I N E 17039 Kenton Drive, Suite 200 P, Cornelius, NC 28031 (484) 769-7445 ShannonHickoryLiving@gmail.com

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

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.

contributors

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bek Mitchell-Kidd Lauren Platts

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Shane Greene Photography

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

A Toast to New Beginnings.

Welcome to the January Issue.

s 2025 comes to an end, I’ve found myself reflecting deeply on the past year, as we all do. But this year has felt more profound than most. Like many, I’ve experienced a season marked by both endings and beginnings, some literal, some figurative. Without question, the most difficult “ending” was the passing of my father. His loss left a hole so big that at times I still feel swallowed by it. He was a huge, billowing personality and a powerful presence in my life. There are days I forget he’s not here, because I still feel him with me, guiding and encouraging me. Shortly before he passed in April, I was laid off from my job. While the change was, in many ways, welcomed—it no longer served me or the schedule I needed to care for my dad and parent my children—it was still a loss. That summer became a season of grief and healing: 6

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

mourning my father, celebrating his life with family and friends, and soaking up long beach days with my boys and questioning my next steps. It was also a time to emerge from the cocoon I had hidden myself away in. I hadn’t realized how much I had retreated over the past year. As a card-carrying member of the “sandwich generation,” I slowly shut down parts of myself just to make it through each day. I wasn’t living; I was surviving. I didn’t see it, but my dad did. He constantly told me I should be writing, creating, engaging with people, and having adventures. At the time, I didn’t have the capacity for any of it. I couldn’t even imagine it. But he never stopped championing me. When September arrived, and school was back in session, it was time to return to work, but I was clear that it had to be something different. I wanted work I could feel passionate about, something that allowed me to be creative and en-

gage with the world. I wanted something that aligned with both the old and new versions of the person I was becoming. Losing my dad has been a pain I’ve never known. But it has also pushed me to make changes, take risks, and believe in myself. In some ways, through his passing, my dad and his unwavering belief in me brought me back to life. So here I am, embarking on a new adventure. I’m excited for the next chapter of my story. I have a lot to learn, but I welcome the path ahead, and I’m so glad you’re coming along with me. I look forward to getting to know this beautiful city and all of you. So here’s to new beginnings—and here’s to you, Dad. Lauren Platts Editor, Hickory Living Magazine CurrentsLauren@gmail.com

Who Won!?

Stay Tuned! We will reveal the winners in our February issue! CATEGORIES 1. Best Aesthetics. Med Spa 2. Best Auto Collision Repair 3. Best Auto Detailers 4. Best Auto Repair 5. Best Breakfast 6. Best Caterer 7. Best Chiropractor 8. Best Cocktails/Wine 9. Best Consignment/Thrift Store 10. Best Cosmetic Surgery Center 11. Best Day Spa/Massage

12. Best Dentist 13. Best Dining 14. Best Fitness Gym 15. Best Golf Course 16. Best Hair Salon 17. Best Hardware Store 18. Best Home Builder 19. Best Insurance Company 20. Best Interior Designer 21. Best Jewelry Store 22. Best Landscaper/Lawn Service

23. Best Law Firm 24. Best Nursery 25. Best Orthodontist 26. Best Palliative Care/Hospice 27. Best Pet Groomer 28. Best Real Estate Agency 29. Best Sandwich Shop 30. Best Veterinarian 31. Best Wedding Venue 32. Best Weight Loss Center 33. Best Women’s Boutique

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on the cover

LOCAL LOVE 'The Joan Killian Everett Team gearing up for 2026.' Left to right: Christy Shepard, Michelle Mitchell Impagliazzo, Xan Pilgrim, and Joan Killian Everett

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

Established community roots foster exceptional service By Bek Mitchell-Kidd Photos by Shane Greene Photography

Joan Killian Everett leads her namesake real estate company with deep roots and a genuine love for the community she serves. A Hickory native, Joan comes from a family with longstanding ties to Catawba County. “I grew up in the area and graduated from St. Stephens High School and LenoirRhyne University,” she says, a local foundation that continues to shape her approach to real estate. That passion for Hickory is evident throughout Joan Killian Everett Company. With a team of 4 professionals, the team is the top seller in Catawba County and ranks in the top 1.0% of realtors statewide. Success, however, is measured by more than numbers; it’s rooted in culture, collaboration, and connection. HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

on the cover

'Brainstorming session with Joan's Team.' Left to right: Michelle Mitchell Impagliazzo, Xan Pilgrim, Joan Killian Everett, and Christy Shepard

Michelle Mitchell-Impagliazzo, REALTOR® and Broker-inCharge, credits Joan’s leadership for creating a workplace that balances professionalism with camaraderie. “I started on Joan’s team in 2010, and in 2020, we launched our own independent boutique real estate company,” she says. “Joan and I are both Hickory natives. We have a professional yet fun atmosphere at our office, which I think you need to survive in this business. We would do anything for each other.” The team’s deep local knowledge is a defining strength and a key advantage for clients, saving them both time and money. When touring someone new to the area, the agents make sure to hit the local highlights, hidden gems, food spots, and 12

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

cultural sites, including Hatch Sandwich Bar and My Chapter House Bookshop, the SALT Block (‘Science, Arts, and Literature Together’), the LP Frans Stadium (home of the Hickory Crawdads), and the extensive Hickory Trail system. “Our goal is to demonstrate how our city is growing and offers engaging activities for all ages,” says Michelle. That client-centered mindset is echoed across the team. REALTOR®, Broker, and GRI Xan Pilgrim draws on personal experience to guide buyers through the relocation process. “Having moved multiple times for corporate relocation, I understand what matters when you’re in the buyer’s position,” she says. “Relocating is about so much more than the house.

“Relocating is about so much more than the house. Our team has decades of combined knowledge of the area, and we take the time to learn what’s important to our buyers so we can help them find the right home in the right community.”

'Joan guiding a first-time homebuyer every step of the way.'

Our team has decades of combined knowledge of the area, and we take the time to learn what’s important to our buyers so we can help them find the right home in the right community.” At the core of Joan Killian Everett Company is a commitment to honesty, efficiency, and enthusiasm. The team invests fully in each client’s journey, whether they are purchasing a first home, moving into a dream property, selling an investment, or exploring a new business opportunity. REALTOR® and Broker Christy Shepard emphasizes the value of long-term relationships. “I’ve worked with several of the same clients through multiple transactions, from secondary homes to commercial purchases, and then helped their extended family members as well,” she says. “Those relationships allow us to anticipate their needs and understand how they do business. Over time, our clients often become friends.” With growth stretching from Hickory to Taylorsville and from Lenoir to Conover, navigating the region’s expanding market requires seasoned guidance and local insight, qualities the team prides itself on delivering.

Looking ahead, the outlook for 2026 appears promising for both buyers and sellers. “Industry experts are calling 2026 a ‘reset’ year, not a boom or a bust,” Michelle notes. “This stabilization is expected to create a friendlier environment for everyone. Home prices are expected to level off, interest rates should hover around 5%, and inventory is projected to increase.” No matter how the market shifts, Joan’s perspective remains grounded in service. “I love this community and the people who live here,” she says. “Real estate has always felt more like service than sales. That philosophy has shaped my business from the very beginning. It’s been a privilege to help multiple generations of families, and I’m grateful to continue serving the Hickory area.”

learn more

Joan Killian Everett Team 110 N. Center Street, Suite 202 Hickory, NC 28601 828.638.1666 | team@joaneverett.com www.joaneverett.com HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

M AG A Z I N E Meet Lauren and Shannon. They are proud to serve your community while celebrating Hickory, NC by spotlighting the people who work and live here. If you have a business to promote, Shannon will get you started and Lauren will craft an article that will tell your story. Questions? Email Lauren or Shannon today.

Lauren Platts

Editor CurrentsLauren@gmail.com

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

Shannon O’Donnell

Advertising Director ShannonHickoryLiving@gmail.com

strategicwellnesscenter.com

Book Now: vagaro.com/hayurscalpspa

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Markets, music & marriage...

In Hickory

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

❅ Compiled By Shannon O’Donnell

WINTER HARVEST

Downtown Hickory Farmers Market • This long-running market continues into winter: during January through March, the market is open on Saturdays only • Market hours: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. • The market offers fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, local honey, flowers and plants, and artisan goods — a cozy way to beat the winter chill and support local vendors.

CONCERTS, ARTS & CULTURE

Western Piedmont Symphony (WPS) • On January, 31st, WPS presents a classical concert featuring an evening of classical music new and familiar, featuring Sibelius’s Violin Concerto, a work of supreme virtuosity and eloquent, beautiful musical storytelling.

• On February 28th, the symphony collaborates with the local choral community for a program titled Grant Us Peace — described as a moving exploration of humanity’s longing for peace in a turbulent world. Hickory Museum of Art (HMA) • Although HMA’s main building is under renovation, the museum continues “on the go” — offering pop-up exhibitions, classes, and community-art events in new spaces, keeping the vibrant art scene alive. • Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 7, 2026 — the museum’s 2026 gala event, the Art of Architecture gala, planned for 7:30–11:00 p.m.

SHOWS, FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS Hickory Wedding Expo • Happening January 10, 2026, at the Hickory Metro Convention Center. A

great pick if you’re wedding-planning (or just love browsing gowns, décor, and event vendors). Hickory Home & Garden Show • Scheduled for February 28 – March 1, 2026 at the Convention Center. Expect exhibits, home-improvement ideas, landscaping inspiration, and expert advice — ideal for spring-ready homeowners. Catawba Valley Pottery & Antiques Festival (CVPAF) • Slated for Friday, March 22 & Saturday, March 23, 2026 at the Convention Center. The festival showcases pottery, antiques, crafts — a lovely way to celebrate spring and discover handmade treasures.

❆❅❄

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

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local spotlight

American Heart Association Welcomes Roger Young He will help boost heart health efforts in the Catawba Valley For 101 years, the American Heart Association has committed to advancing health and hope for everyone, everywhere. Through the Heart of Catawba Valley Heart Ball campaign, Roger Young, American Heart Association campaign chairperson and president of David E. Looper & Company, will lead regional efforts to help ensure every individual in Catawba Valley has the opportunity for a full, healthy life. The annual Heart Ball celebrates the American Heart Association’s efforts to make an impact on the overall health of the community, and this year’s campaign will also focus on the safety and well-being of those in the construction industry. “I am honored to serve as the 2026 Heart of Catawba Valley Heart Ball Chair,” said Young. “The construction industry is especially impacted by heart disease and stroke, with long hours, high stress, and physically demanding work. Statistics show that 1 in 25 construction workers suffers from a form of cardiovascular disease. 20

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026

I believe that if we integrate health, well-being, cardiac emergency preparedness, and prevention solutions into the culture of the industry, we can save lives and help make a difference in our community.” Young will work with an executive team of volunteer leaders and the American Heart Association to drive change by removing barriers to health, investing in groundbreaking research, delivering impactful health education, and advocating for healthy policies. “It takes all of us to make a lasting

impact, and we must do whatever is necessary to create a better tomorrow for all residents of Catawba Valley,” said Young. The Heart of Catawba Valley Heart Ball will be held on January 24, 2026, at Moretz Mills in Hickory, NC. The annual event is a night to celebrate the Association’s year-round efforts to improve heart and brain health, honor volunteers and patrons, feature stories of survivors, and entertain guests with dinner, dancing, and an exciting auction.

For more information on how to support or attend the 2026 Catawba Valley Heart Ball, scan this code or contact Sarah Demarest at sarah.demarest@heart.org.

Quality Never Goes out of Style.

ISH AM

OAK & CHERRY

HICKORY LIVING • JANUARY 2026