2025
MacAdam
Publisher mac@oasisluxuryhomes.com (484) 769-7445
Sharon Simpson
Advertising Director sharon@lncurrents.com (704) 677-9159
Lori Helms Editor Lori@LNCurrents.com
Sue
Advertising Representative
sue.hickorymag@gmail.com (224) 223-9941
MA GAZINE
egend has it — even though there is not much research to support it — that the conquistador Juan Ponce de León, then the Governor of Puerto Rico, arrived in what is now Florida in the early 16th century in his quest for the elusive Fountain of Youth. By merely ingesting or bathing in it, the fountain’s waters supposedly held mystical, restorative qualities that could return one to their early days of youthfulness and robust health.
Well, I’ve got bad news and good news. We’ll get the bad news out of the way first – that mythical fountain or spring doesn’t exist, so I don’t know what that did for the governor’s re-election prospects, let alone his desire to perhaps improve his hairline or get rid of the wrinkles brought on by all those years of conquistadoring and governing.
The good news, however, is that the pro-
Welcome to the
May Issue
By Lori Helms
fessionals at Vitality Anti-Aging Center in Hickory can likely provide you with the return to youthfulness you may be seeking. Center founder Grace Mclaurin and her staff of experienced medical practitioners, estheticians and other providers offer a safe and full approach to your wellbeing, whether that means facial treatments, supervised weight loss programs, injectibles or hormone replacement therapy. They have been the region’s go-to professionals for nearly two decades, so turn to Page 10 to catch up with their latest advancements and services in support of your anti-aging needs.
As we sit on the cusp of summer, we thought it would be a good time to offer some tips for summertime pet care. When the weather turns warmer, we will naturally spend more time outside with them, and even some time traveling with them in tow, so we reached out to Startown Veterinary Hospital in Newton to get their recommendations on how to keep your pet safe in the summer heat as
well as how to keep them comfortable should you take them with you for that epic summer road trip.
And our May issue would not be complete without our annual “FACES of the Foothills” special section, in which we introduce you to several Hickory area local business faces to know. Whether you need financial planning, a great real estate team, a beautiful addition to your wardrobe or a piece of jewelry that is drop-dead gorgeous, you’ll learn about just who to see to fit the bill, starting on Page 15.
Wishing you a summer free of worry about wrinkles, your hairline or waistline, and one full of outdoor fun with your pet and time to explore the exciting and innovative businesses our area has to offer.
— LH
Lori Helms Editor lori@lncurrents.com
Left: Every journey starts with a personalized consultation to map out your aesthetic plan.
Below: Aesthetician Jaelyn Swagger tailors every treatment to your unique goals.
Combining experience and safety for your wellbeing
Experience matters. There is no truer axiom when it comes to life’s challenges and events, be they personal or professional. So, when it comes to matters concerning your wellbeing and appearance, there is nothing more comforting than the confidence in knowing you have an experienced provider in your corner. That’s precisely what the practitioners at Vitality AntiAging Center in Hickory bring to the table.
“I’ve been in this specialty for 24 years,” says Grace Mclaurin, DMSC, PA-C and founder of the center. In addition to Vitality’s other professionals on staff, there are about 60 years of
By Lori Helms
combined experience between them in providing the concept of whole health. Mclaurin says the center offers everything from functional and weight medicine to bioidentical hormones to regenerative aesthetics and other skin care.
“We take an integrative approach to your care,” she says. “Sometimes people have underlying health conditions that cause them to have side effects. So, we have the ability here to do a health workup if we need to — we offer that health component.” It’s one of many services they offer to help their clients attain their best physical, emotional and cosmetic health.
Photos by Shane Greene Photography
“We take an integrative approach to your care ...”
Left: Welcome to the Botox Bar — where artistry, experience and results come together.
Safety first — Mindray ultrasound technology allows for precise vascular mapping before injectable treatments, adding an advanced layer of care and confidence.
Aesthetics Trends
Regenerative treatments have definitely come to the forefront in preferred anti-aging approaches to skin care health and hair growth, particularly through the use of exomes – our own platelet-derived healing blood cells.
“Exosomes enter the cells and tell the cells how to behave healthy and young,” Mclaurin says. More active than a stem cell, they serve as a messenger and release all the things that make the cell function normally. “Aging cells are abnormal cells – exomes tell aging cells how to behave like a healthy cell, which is a young cell.”
Above: Comfort and trust are key — we ensure every client feels relaxed and confident in our care.
Mclaurin says exosomes have been used successfully in other traditional medical applications such as heart transplants, in studies on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) with the National Football League and the U.S. military, as well as in wound healing.
“While it’s a newer technology in aesthetic medicine, it’s been used the last five years at least in traditional medicine,” she says. “People are looking for a more natural, regenerative type of approach to anti-aging, and there are things we can do where we can almost stop aging if (the patient) is willing to put in the time and the effort.”
“Everything we do is safe – we use top of the line lasers, we pay for specialty trainings ...
Safety Is Key
As regenerative aesthetics are increasing in popularity, the use of fillers is showing a bit of a retreat in requested therapy. Mclaurin is emphatic that fillers are still a viable option, but it’s critical that you have an experienced injector providing the treatment to avoid some of the hazards of a largely unregulated practice. There is no board certification for those who inject fillers, and to that end, Mclaurin has been working with other doctors to develop just that. She has started by offering a 12-month internship and mentoring project through her training company, Aesthetic Consulting & Training (ACT). Safety is an integral part of Vitality AntiAging Center’s treatments, and it receives a great deal of attention in all the services they offer.
“Everything we do is safe – we use top of the line lasers, we pay for specialty trainings ... some of the greatest and most well-known names in our industry have come in here and have
trained our staff,” Mclaurin says. “I’d venture to say our staff is one of the best trained anywhere.”
And for an increased measure of safety, she says her practice has added the use of ultrasound technology. It’s used in combination with their injectables services to provide an additional layer of protection for their patients, as well as a diagnostic tool for others who come to them with problems due to the methods of less experienced providers.
“It’s something we stress a lot here,” says Mclaurin, “keeping our staff very highly trained and constantly reviewing prevention and complication management like ultrasound and other techniques.”
Filler vs. Fill-er
“It’s not the filler that’s dangerous,” says Mclaurin, it’s usually the person injecting the filler. Not only do some cut corners
Right: Focused on flawless skin — Aesthetician Jean Paspa delivers advanced facial treatments with a gentle touch.
Above: Laser precision — Todd Hinceman, NP-C demonstrates one of our safe and effective skin resurfacing treatments.
some of the greatest and most wellknown names in our industry have come in here and have trained our staff,”
by using something other than top-of-the-line products, but there are those doing the injecting that sometimes don’t have a full understanding of anatomy. It’s possible they could inject into a ligament, or worse, into a blood vessel, which can then restrict oxygen to the skin, causing it to die. Using ultrasound, Mclaurin and her practitioners can diagnose the problem for proper treatment.
“It’s scary,” she says. “Sometimes we see people and we don’t know what they’ve had injected.” They have seen more than one patient other than their own who has had a cut-rate filler injected by someone with minimal experience – a dual threat. “In the wrong hands, it can be a high-risk procedure.”
Mclaurin says it’s critical that those entertaining fillers do their homework. Ask your potential provider how long they’ve been injecting, not just how long they’ve been a medical practitioner. Ask about their training, any speaking engagements or published papers they have under their belt, how they handle a complication if they don’t have ultrasound technology, and ask to see their portfolio of before and after pictures.
In addition to her 19 years with Vitality Anti-Aging Center, Mclaurin is very active in the greater Hickory community, through her service on a variety of boards and in several associations and organizations including the United Arts Council, the city’s small business development association, a citizen’s advisory committee and time on advisory boards for several national and international companies in the aesthetics and skin care industry. It all speaks to her commitment to quality for her clientele.
“I want to give a quality service,” she says. “We want to build relationships with our patients, and we want to do it in a safe environment with absolutely the best possible equipment, supplies and products that we can offer.”
learn more
Learn more about Vitality Anti-Aging Center at www.vitalitymedicalspa.com or call 828.322.1498. The center is at 74 8th Street SE, Suite 101, in Hickory.
Pictured, top to bottom:
As a proud Black Diamond Hydrafacial provider, we deliver the highest level of expertise and glowing results with every treatment.
We’re here to guide you — our skincare experts match you with the perfect products for lasting results.
Elevating skin rejuvenation — Courtney Browning uses Virtue RF to combine microneedling with radio frequency to tighten, smooth, and refresh your skin with minimal downtime.
FACES OF The Foothills
Business owners in our area touch our lives in so many ways. From the services and products they offer to their dedication to excellence, they make our area a better place to live. We are celebrating their contribution and proud to introduce you to these FACES of the Foothills. They are professionals you want to know!
FACES OF The Foothills
Leigh Ashton Aesthetics
Brittni Wilson, founder/CEO
As a new business in Hickory, Leigh Ashton Aesthetics has already found its footing in the local market. Since opening in early December 2024, founder and CEO Brittni Wilson says her practice has already had the privilege to serve more than 500 clients and new patients are reaching out daily. Wilson holds a Master of Science degree in nursing with a concentration as a Family Nurse Practitioner, and says she is motivated by a vision to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care.
“We prioritize medically advanced, highquality aesthetic and wellness treatments, respecting each client’s time and unique needs,” Wilson says. “We offer a variety of premium injectable services, including dermal fillers, neuromodulators (Botox and Dysport), Sculptra, skin boosters, PDO threads, medical grade skincare, weight loss injections and more. We will be adding microneedling and other highdemand esthetician services soon.”
“Our goal is to serve clients for a lifetime, rather than making a quick sale,” says Wilson. “Our dedication to helping clients achieve optimal results always comes first. Additionally, we deeply respect our client’s time by offering punctual and efficient services without compromising the quality of care. We prioritize transparency and honesty, even if it means recommending another practice when a specific procedure falls outside our offerings.”
At Leigh Ashton Aesthetics, Wilson says what sets them apart from the competition is their commitment to an honest, personalized, clientcentered approach. Their thorough consultations provide clients with a clear roadmap for their aesthetic journey, where the practice focuses on delivering natural and transformative results that enhance their unique features.
1843 N. Center Street, Hickory 828.229.5477
FACES OF The Foothills
Startown Vet
Lorin Bilhorn, DVM
At a time when veterinary hospitals are more likely to be owned by a corporate conglomerate, Startown Veterinary Hospital is one of the few in this area that remains independent. Established in 2011, it is owned by Matt and Beth Pennell, who live in and are committed to the Hickory community. But that’s not the only thing that sets Startown Veterinary Hospital apart.
“We are the only hospital in the Hickory Metro area that has all doctors and staff ‘Fear Free Certified,’” says Lorin Bilhorn, DVM, an Associate Veterinarian at the practice. “Our goal is to provide the best possible medical care, but also reduce the pet’s fear, anxiety and stress associated with veterinary visits.”
With a mission to provide premier veterinary care to pets and their people through an innovative, fear-free environment, Dr. Bilhorn says the practice also recognizes that in veterinary medicine, there are always two clients – the patient (dog or cat) and the one who cares for the patient through their great emotional investment and financial responsibility.
“I very much enjoy animals,” he says, “but I more deeply appreciate helping people care for the animals that they care for so deeply. Animals bring joy, solace, companionship and even protection. As we help keep these animals healthy, the people who love them are happier and have peace of mind knowing that they have a resource of knowledge and understanding at Startown Veterinary Hospital.”
FACES OF The Foothills
Mumy Financial
Andrew Rader, President
At Mumy Financial, President Andrew Rader says their mission is to make financial planning and investment management attainable to everyone, regardless of their financial acumen, by being their trusted advisor and partner through their financial journey of life.
“It’s your money, it needs to be managed in a way specific to your individual needs and goals, he says. As a Certified Financial Planner, he says it’s his goal to empower individuals to make better financial decisions with their investment dollars. “We have created an ecosystem which allows us to act as a client’s ‘quarterback,’ helping to navigate the complexities of their financial lives and coordinating their financial planning, estate coordination and investment management. We have in-house professionals and partner with others in the area to help manage every facet of someone’s financial life.”
Rader says each client comes with their unique set of circumstances, which requires an investment approach tailored to their specific needs. Whether someone is just starting their first job, or they now want to maximize wealth for future generations, Rader says the professionals at Mumy Financial will coordinate a plan to meet their needs on an ongoing basis.
“Someone’s financial plan and investments shouldn’t be on autopilot,” he says. “Having a close relationship with the professional managing their money is imperative to meeting long term goals. I enjoy getting to know clients on a personal level and value the trust they place in myself and our team.” 200
FACES OF The Foothills
SWISHER SKIN & LASER CENTER and WAXmd
Dr. Jenette Swisher Founder/Owner
As one of the area’s top physicians, Dr. Jenette T. Swisher has been helping people in the area since 1997. After practicing for several years, she founded Swisher Internal Medicine, which became UNC Medical Park in 2023. She continues to add value to patient lives through her entrepreneur spirit and through her work in aesthetic medicine.
In 2017, Dr. Swisher opened WAXmd, the area’s first dedicated waxing salon specializing in high quality speed waxing. WAXmd was also the first in the area to offer lash lifts and brow laminations. There are now 2 locations - one in Viewmont and one on Highway 70. They are known as the “Brow and Body Waxing Experts”.
Dr. Swisher followed her passion for aesthetic medicine when she started Swisher Skin and Laser Center in 2020. She keeps her patients feeling confident and beautiful with offerings such as Botox/ Xeomin, dermal fillers, Hydrafacials, top of the line laser devices, microneedling, chemical peels, and much more. Her most recent device can do laser hair removal on ALL skin types, do it faster, and with much less discomfort. If you want “Beauty At Its Best”, make sure to check out Swisher Skin and Laser Center.
But don’t stop there! Dr. Swisher’s latest business, Swisher Hydration, just opened its doors April 2nd! Here, you can find a variety of IV cocktails to help with hydration, energy, anti-aging, athletic performance, or boost immunity. Come in for a simple B12 shot. Dr. Swisher is excited at the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s wellness.
Swisher Skin and Laser Center 828-838-1184 www.swisherskin.com
WAXmd
828-838-1194 AND 828-838-1441 www.waxmd123.com Swisher Hydration
828-838-1164
www.swisherhydration.com
Oz’s Jewelers
Melissa Haynes and Dalton Powell/Owners
Welcome to the next generation of Oz’s Jewelers, led by owners Dalton Powell and Melissa Haynes. The duo began as parttime employees at the store and diligently worked their way up, applying their handson experience and passion for the industry to take ownership of the store in January.
Oz’s Jewelers is a full-service jewelry store offering expert repairs, custom design work and professional appraisals. It specializes in fine jewelry— from engagement rings to estate pieces — and provides high-quality craftsmanship for all your jewelry needs.
“We enjoy helping customers find or create meaningful jewelry pieces that become part of their life stories,” Powell and Haynes say. “We also enjoy preserving the sentimental value of heirloom jewelry through expert repair and restoration. We greatly enjoy the creativity involved in designing custom pieces that reflect each client’s unique style.”
Powell and Haynes say it’s important to them to create a welcoming, familyfriendly environment where everyone feels comfortable shopping for fine jewelry. They want everyone who walks through the doors at Oz’s Jewelers to feel at ease –almost like you’re shopping with a friend.
“We are excited to continue growing Oz’s Jewelers while maintaining the legacy that Oz and Brenda built,” they say. “Our goal is to blend tradition with modern innovation, ensuring our customers receive the best experience possible.”
1839 12th Ave. NE • Hickory 828.328.5565
contact@ozsjewelers.com
Vitality Anti-Aging Center
Grace Mclaurin, DMSc, PA-C/founder
“At Vitality Anti-Aging Center, we focus on whole health,” says Grace Mclaurin, DMSc, PA-C and founder of the center. “We know you must look well and be healthy to achieve a complete sense of well-being.”
That’s what inspired her to establish Vitality Anti-Aging Center in 2006 – her passion to practice a more integrative approach to health and wellness. The center offers bioidentical hormone replacement, aesthetic medicine, skin care and everything related to aesthetics. Mclaurin has extensive experience with multiple laser devices, neurotoxins, dermal fillers, skincare, vein therapy, PRP, Novathreads and more.
In an industry that is constantly changing, over the years the center has expanded its services, the number of providers on staff and its locations. In addition to Hickory, you can now find them in Belmont. This expansion and continual improvement of their services is all part of Vitality AntiAging Center’s mission.
“We focus on being a leader in our specialty,” Mclaurin says, “and focus on cutting-edge treatments with continual education for our providers.”
FACES OF The Foothills
Catawba River Insurance Group
Ethan Hamby
Family-owned Catawba River Insurance Group (THE CRIG) has come a long way since it was first established in 1986 by patriarch and owner, Rick Hamby, in an office with one metal desk and one telephone. Ethan Hamby, Rick’s son and current President of the group, recalls it well.
“I remember many nights as a child eating dinner and going to bed before my Dad would get home from work as he was trying to build the business,” Ethan says. This inspired Ethan to obtain a Risk Management & Insurance degree from ASU followed by years of service in a variety of claims and sales roles. Ethan rebranded the business in 2020, changing the name & location(s), which established the current framework of the company. Unlike many of their counterparts, the agency has not sold to private equity or a publicly traded company and has used the last several years to position ourselves to remain locally owned, indefinitely.
“We really do help people,” says Ethan. “Whether it’s a coverage, billing, quality, price, non-renewal issue or an ‘I’m starting my own business’ issue, we can help. The CRIG takes a needs-based and risk management approach with their clients, all thanks to its reputation, size and ability to access markets.
“Our clients really appreciate the value we offer. Some of the folks I talk to have been with our agency since before I was born. That says a lot about the integrity of the agency and we’re here to stay.”
Hickory Office
423 4th St Sw | Hickory NC
Lenoir Office 1308
Cordora Dental
Michael Cordora, DDS
“Your smile is our motivation” – that’s how Michael Cordora, DDS, describes the mission of his practice. “We strive to work with our patients to improve their smiles and their overall oral health in a caring, comfortable, friendly and professional environment.”
It’s a mission Dr. Cordora has implemented over the last 23 years, as his practice in the Viewmont area of Hickory has continually evolved. Services he currently provides include routine and periodontal hygiene, fillings, extractions, crowns, partials, bridges, full dentures, implants, whitening, bonding, veneers and Invisalign, as well as digital x-rays and CT scans. He says as technological advancements continue to be made in dentistry, he focuses on investing in new technology and continuing education, which includes earning his Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) Fellowship in 2024. Only about six percent of general dentists in the U.S. and Canada are AGD Fellows.
Outside of his practice, Dr. Cordora is also active in his community, participating through the years in Hickory Rotary as well as volunteering with the dental clinic at Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministries, the N.C. Baptist Men Dental Bus at Sandy Ridge Baptist Church and the N.C. Dental Society MOM Dental Clinic in Asheville.
“I enjoy instilling a renewed confidence in my patients by helping them to improve their smile,” he says. “I also enjoy working with my fantastic staff members who have been with me for many years. I could not do my job effectively without their knowledge, professionalism and teamwork.”
236 9th Avenue Drive NE, Hickory 828.324.9800
www.facebook.com/cordoradental www.cordoradental.com
FACES OF The Foothills
Imagine One Hospitality
Brooke Reid, GM of Cowa Sakè and Frothy Rooster
Jack Morell, GM of Vintage House Restaurant Kaylana Phillips, GM of Rule Italian Prime and Pasta
The leadership team at Imagine One Hospitality has a shared set of values they apply to every aspect of their business – compassion, hospitality and hard work. It’s what sets them apart in the industry and has made such a success of their restaurant portfolio, which includes Cowa Sake, Frothy Rooster, Vintage House, Rule Prime and Pasta, and Boca.
With 12 years of experience in the service industry, Cowa Sake and Frothy Rooster General Manager Brooke Reid brings her passion for a fast-paced environment to operations and leadership roles in both locations. “What began as just a part-time job while I was in school turned into something I genuinely enjoy,” she says. “It’s a career that keeps me on my toes.”
Jack Morrell is the General Manager at fine dining establishment Vintage House, where he brings a lifelong passion for hospitality and the power of food to bring people together. “Fine dining is about more than just great food,” he says, “it’s about creating experiences. ... What I love most is seeing guests celebrate life’s biggest moments with us. It’s an honor to be part of memories that will last a lifetime.”
The newly imagined Italian concept at Rule Prime and Pasta is something the leadership team is particularly proud of, led by General Manager Kaylana Phillips. “People remember and talk about hospitality,” she says, “and that’s what is important to us. When your food is prepared to perfection, that’s great — it’s what is supposed to happen. But we also want to focus on how we make you feel. We want to give our guests an experience that they will always remember.”
Imagine One Hospitality 19 4th Street SW Hickory NC 28602 sallie@ionehospitality.com www.imagineonehospitality.com
La Bella Donna Spa
Tracey Bare, RN Founder/Owner
Tracey Bare, owner of La Bella Donna - soon to be celebrating 20 years of business - has the privilege of working with Dr. Lisa Caporossi (medical director), Kim Amos (Esthetician) and Kim Castle (Office manager).
La Bella Donna is a full-service spa offering treatments like Botox, Xeomin (neurotoxins), dermal fillers, laser treatments for face and body along with pampering facials and waxing.
Tracey Bare, RN, has been a nurse for 33 years, specializing in medical esthetic treatments since 2005. Tracey was working in the industry at the start of the cosmetic laser trend and realized she had found her niche. In 2006, La Bella Donna was born.
Natural results have always been a priority in client outcomes; that is one thing that has never changed at La Bella Donna. “Today’s trends seem to be heading in a more natural way, I guess you can say that La Bella Donna was ahead of the curve,” says Tracey.
Tracey says “Our clients trust in predictable results, which is evident in the growth and retention of our clientele over the years. The fact that clients recommend their friends and family members to La Bella Donna is the greatest compliment.”
La Bella Donna continues to have customer appreciation days twice a year to show gratitude towards their existing clients and welcoming new ones. They are excited for their “Favorite Things” event this year on May 8th from 10 am-6 pm, just before Mother’s Day! This is a great way to save and stock up on those favorite products and treatments.
1208 North Center Street • Hickory 828.267.7263
belladonnalasers.com
FACES OF The Foothills
Michelle
Lusk,
RN, MSN, CIC, CPHQ Catawba Valley Health System
Michelle Lusk is the Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer for Catawba Valley Health System. She oversees more than 50 clinical and support services departments and locations. Serving in an executive role for 10 years and in healthcare for 24 years, she is key to ensuring the organization meets the highest standards of patient care and quality.
In fact, her efforts have led to CVHS being named a Top 100 Hospital for Patient Experience in the U.S. Additionally, the medical center achieved the Unifour’s only ‘A’ rating from The Leapfrog Group for quality and patient safety. Other national recognitions have followed, including those from U.S. News and World Report, Newsweek, and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Michelle also has been a driving force in the recent additions of world-class technology such as the daVinci 5 and ION robots, among others, increasing the likelihood of shorter stays for surgery patients and quicker recovery times.
A bedside nurse by trade before transitioning into an administrative role, Michelle studied at LeniorRhyne University for her bachelor’s degree and Gardner-Webb University for her master’s degree in nursing administration.
810 Fairgrove Church Road, SE Hickory, NC 28602
828.326.3000
www.CatawbaValleyHealth.org
FACES OF The Foothills
Ella Blu
Courtney Lyons/Owner
It’s unlikely that Courtney Lyons could have predicted more than 20 years ago that the custom handbag business she started in a small space on Hickory’s Union Square would become the fashion juggernaut it is now. With her degree and background in interior design, she launched Ella Blū, a women’s apparel and accessories boutique, in late 2003 and hasn’t looked back.
“My mission is to empower women through fashion by offering high-quality, stylish and unique clothing that celebrates individuality, boosts confidence and promotes self-expression,” Lyons says. “I strive to create a personalized shopping experience with exceptional customer service.” Clearly, her mission has been a success so far, as the business continues to grow at a healthy clip.
“In 2007, I moved the store to a much larger building, but still on Union Square,” she says. “What began as a one-man show with me doing all of the buying, merchandising and in-store sales has grown tremendously. We now have a team of six who help handle not just sales and merchandising, but also an all-encompassing social media presence as well as an e-commerce business. My manager, Sara Wimmer, is an invaluable part of the team and my right-hand woman. Her knowledge and expertise in social media has put @shopellablu on the map.”
That continued success means Ella Blū will now offer franchise opportunities, with the first one opening this fall. It all speaks to how Lyons has hoped to impact her clients – helping them feel better about themselves.
“When you look good, you feel good,” she says, “and helping curate outfits and a great wardrobe can make you feel like a confident and refreshed woman.”
214 Union Square, Hickory 828.324.9792
Instagram: @shopellablu
FACES OF The Foothills
The Joan Killian Everett Team
Joan Killian Everett REALTOR®, BROKER, Owner
The Joan Killian Everett Team — comprised of Joan Killian Everett, Michelle Mitchell-Impagliazzo, Christy Shepard and Xan Pilgrim — is a fullservice real estate brokerage team. We assist buyers and sellers in all price ranges to achieve their real estate goals.
Joan became licensed in real estate in 1991 and has been the top-producing team in our area for over 30 years. She attributes her success to a passion for our region, real estate and helping people. With deep roots in Catawba Valley and the support of a vast network of family and friends, she and her team have accomplished over $700 million in career sales over the last three decades. “We love our area and all it has to offer,” says Joan.
The Joan Killian Everett Team utilizes the most current marketing trends and stays up to date on market statistics to best serve our clients. Joan enjoys that each transaction is different. “We are always learning,” says Joan. “Each day provides new challenges, and we take on a variety of tasks to get our clients to the closing table.”
The Joan Killian Everett Team’s mission is to provide exemplary client care throughout each unique buying and selling experience, all while building relationships for life.
The Joan Killian Everett Team Real Estate. Refined. 110 North Center Street, Suite 202 Hickory, NC 28601 team@joaneverett.com www.joaneverett.com
Furry Summer Fun
Warm weather tips to care for your pet
Compiled by Lori Helms
At the end of this month, we will hit the unofficial beginning of summer with the Memorial Day holiday. That’s usually when our thoughts turn to spending more time with family, more time outdoors in the rapidly warming weather, even time away for an epic road trip.
Regardless how you spend it, if you’re a pet owner, it’s important to keep in mind that as the weather warms up or your plans call for a little time on the road, the needs of your pet are a critical consideration.
We reached out to Dr. Matt Pennell, DVM, at Startown Veterinary Hospital in Newton, to get his advice about what to keep top of mind during the coming warm weather months to keep your pet – whether indoor or outdoor – happy and healthy. Here are some pointers he offers:
Keep Cool and Play On
“Heat stroke is a very real and serious emergency that we see in the summertime, and we have already had a case this spring,” Dr. Pennell says. Always provide access to cool, clean water when outside, and don’t leave them outside for extended periods of time without a shady place to rest. Remember not to exercise them during the heat of the day, and NEVER leave them in a car. “We also see patients with third degree burns on their paw pads from walking on hot asphalt or concrete,” he says. So, if it’s too hot for your feet, it’s too hot for theirs.
Hit the Road
To counter the possible stress of travel or motion sickness, he recommends talking to your veterinarian about medication options. It’s best to make sure your pet wears a collar
with tags (with updated contact information). If your pet is microchipped, make sure the chip is registered and all contacts are currents. While canine influenza is not prevalent in the Hickory area, Dr. Pennell says to make sure all vaccines (including for canine influenza) are up to date if there’s a chance your dog could come into contact with other pets on your trip.
“We also see patients with third degree burns on their paw pads from walking on hot asphalt or concrete,” he says. So, if it’s too hot for your feet, it’s too hot for theirs.”
Boarding vs. In-Home Care
“The majority of dogs get stressed when going to boarding facilities,” he says, or you could consider a pet sitter. Either way, do your due diligence by touring the boarding facility and looking at reviews. Look for a facility or pet sitter that is Fear Free Certified. Make sure your pet is current on vaccines, even if the facility does not require it, because if your dog is not current, there’s a good chance that the other dogs there are not current, either.
And Another Thing ...
• Fireworks and thunderstorms: Dr. Pennell recommends keeping pets indoors, playing music and providing a safe place for them to hide, and possibly talking to your veterinarian about sedatives to give ahead of time. He says thundershirts and pheromone diffusers can also help with noise phobia.
• Cookouts: Avoid giving pets “people food” such as meats, bones, corn on the cob or watermelon rinds. These can cause GI upset or even obstructions.
Empowering
Hickory professional graduates from Leadership Catawba Leaders
The Chamber of Catawba County recently recognized the achievements of 35 government, education, nonprofit and business leaders who participated, engaged and developed professionally in the 2024-2025 Leadership Catawba program at a graduation ceremony on March 20 at Rock Barn Country Club & Spa.
Whitney Williams, HR Recruiter/Onboarder representing nonprofit healthcare provider Carolina Caring, is a member of the milestone 50th graduating class, in which she gained valuable insights into our community’s growth and leadership.
“Completing Leadership Catawba as part of the 50th class has been an incredibly meaningful experience,” says Williams. “It’s strengthened my commitment to supporting the growth and well-being of our community. As a recruiter for Carolina Caring, I’m inspired to continue fostering meaningful connections, advocating for local initiatives and contributing to workforce development, ensuring Carolina Caring remains a great place to work and serve.”
Founded in 1979, Carolina Caring is an independent, community-based, nonprofit healthcare provider specializing in
programs that offer relief from chronic conditions, serious illnesses and the challenges they bring, including palliative medicine and hospice care for all ages, primary care and grief counseling. Carolina Caring serves 12 counties across western North Carolina and the Charlotte region. The organization has been named among Modern Healthcare’s “Best Places to Work” for six years in a row. For more information about the organization and its mission, call 828.466.0466 or visit www. carolinacaring.org.
Since 1974, Leadership Catawba has educated and empowered leaders for the future of Catawba County. Over the eight-month duration, participants are immersed in community issues and challenges that we position ourselves to directly address in the areas of reinventing community, telling our story, workforce connectivity, serving our community, building for jobs, and small business and entrepreneurship. The program challenges each participant not only to be an effective and influential leader within their own organization, but to lead within our greater community through personal commitment and involvement. To learn more about the Leadership Catawba program through The Chamber of Catawba County, visit www.catawbachamber.org/leadership-catawba/.
Provided by Carolina Caring and The Chamber of Catawba County
Photo courtesy Pat Appleson Studios, Inc.
Ashley
Abernethy,
Product Specialist
Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology
A commitment to excellence in care and the community
Editor’s Note: In our April issue, a photo caption misidentified
Product Specialist Ashley Abernethy in our cover story about Piedmont Plastic Surgery and Dermatology. We sincerely regret the error. Here is the correct photo and caption, along with a reminder about Abernethy’s critical role with the practice.
Piedmont Plastic Surgery and Dermatology (PPSD) in Hickory offers cosmetic surgery, dermatology and skin cancer treatments, as well as non-surgical cosmetic treatments and esthetician services. It also offers medical grade skincare products that patients can use at home to extend the effectiveness of the surgical interventions and other treatments that the physician-owned practice provides.
Ashley Abernethy is the Product Specialist at PPSD in Hickory. She has been in the medical field for more than 20 years and has been with the practice since 2019.
“Beautiful skin starts with great skincare and sunscreen,” says Abernethy. “Do not forget to reapply!” Regarding new or particularly effective products that patients should consider, she highlights three, including an all-in-one, anti-aging moisturizer that is good for thinning, sagging skin — Revision DEJ Face. Another is Alastin Hydratint Pro Mineral Sunscreen with SPF 36 which offers a natural, sun-kissed glow. As a treatment for thinning eyelashes, Abernethy says they can become thicker and shinier in as little as eight weeks with Obagi Nu-Cil Eyelash Enhacing Serum.
Learn more about Piedmont Plastic Surgery and Dermatology at www.ppsd.com or by calling 828.325.9849 or 828.328.3500. learn more
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