Issuu

October 2026

Complimentary

On the Cover

Katie Teague Pharmacy Technician Bill Pitts Pharmacist/Owner Gina Powers Pharmacist

Viewmont Pharmacy: A Hickory Tradition Built on Personal Service page 10

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Office: 828.855.1055 | 3244 Springs Rd NE | Hickory, NC 28601

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HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

contents

October 2026

MacAdam Smith

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

FEATURE 10 • COVER STORY Viewmont Pharmacy: A Hickory Tradition Built on Personal Service

IN THIS ISSUE

Shannon O’Donnell

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

6 • Welcome to the

October Issue 16 • Introducing

The Who’s Who of Hickory 24 • What’s Cooking?

Lauren Platts

Editor CurrentsLauren@gmail.com

Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies

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 • OCTOBER 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 Allison Futterman Brittany Bolus

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Shane Greene Photography

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Welcome to

October

very community has a face—or, Those different journeys are what make this feature so much fun to put together. more accurately, many faces. The people you’ll meet in these pages They belong to the people who represent a wide range of backgrounds, businesses and experiences, but they open the doors to local businesses each share something important: They have morning, welcome customers by name chosen to invest their time and talents in and remember the little things. They are this community. In doing so, they help the entrepreneurs who took a chance shape what it feels like to live here. on an idea, the professionals who have spent years building their careers and the neighbors who quietly find ways to make That matters. life better for the people around them. A community isn’t defined only by its scenery, landmarks or location. It’s deThis month, we’re celebrating those fined by its people—the ones who show people in our special Faces of the Footup, create opportunities, support local hills feature. causes and build relationships that go far beyond a single transaction. They bring One of my favorite parts of this job is personality to the places we visit and give learning the stories behind the names and businesses we see every day. We may us reasons to return. They are part of the recognize a storefront, drive past an office rhythm of everyday life here, whether we or follow a local business on social media realize it or not. without knowing what it took to get there. Behind every one is a person with a October feels like an especially fitting story—usually one involving a combina- time to celebrate them. Fall naturally draws people together. As the temperation of hard work, risk, resilience and a tures cool and the landscape begins to genuine love for what they do. show off its fall color, calendars fill with festivals, football games, outdoor events Some grew up here and built their and reasons to spend time with family lives close to home. Others arrived by a completely different path and discovered and friends. We get out into our communities, visit our favorite local spots and something in this area that made them reconnect with the people and places that want to stay. Some always knew exactly what they wanted to do. Others changed make this area feel like home. direction, followed a dream they couldn’t As you read this month’s issue, I hope ignore or found their calling in a place you’ll take a little time to get to know they never expected. 6

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

the faces behind some of those places. You may discover a connection you didn’t know existed, learn something surprising about a familiar name or find a new business you want to support. More than anything, I hope this feature serves as a reminder that shopping, dining and doing business locally is personal. It supports someone’s dream. It helps a family. It allows a business owner to create jobs, give back and continue investing in the community we all share. And now it’s your turn to recognize the businesses and people who make a difference in your life. Voting for The Best of the Foothills begins October 1 and continues through mid-December. Be sure to cast your votes for your local favorites, then look for the winners in our February issue. To everyone featured in Faces of the Foothills, thank you for letting us tell your stories—and for everything you do to make this region such a special place to live, work and call home. Welcome to October, friends. We hope you enjoy meeting some of the wonderful people who give this community its character. Warmly, Lauren, Editor CurrentsLauren@gmail.com

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

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HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

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HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

on the cover

The Viewmont Pharmacy Staff.

Viewmont Pharmacy: A Hickory Tradition Built on Personal Service By Allison Futterman Photography by Shane Greene Photography 10

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

“Our pharmacists are never too busy to answer questions.”

Lori Rosenbalm helping a customer.

For more than seven decades, Viewmont Pharmacy has been part of the Hickory community, offering something that’s increasingly hard to find: a familiar face, a personal connection and the time to truly help. Open since 1951, the neighborhood pharmacy has built its reputation on relationships. Owner and pharmacist Bill Pitts has been at the helm for 22 years, carrying forward the personalized service that has long distinguished independent pharmacies from their larger counterparts. Pitts is joined by office manager Robin Ball, who has been with the pharmacy for more than 20 years and helps keep ev-

erything running smoothly. Together, they continue a tradition that Pitts says is about much more than simply filling prescriptions. “Our pharmacists are never too busy to answer questions,” he says. That philosophy has become even more important as the health care landscape has changed. With doctors often having less time to spend with patients, Pitts believes the pharmacy can play an important role in making sure people understand the medications they’ve been prescribed—what they’re for, how to take them and what side effects to watch for. HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

on the cover

Stephen Miller heading out on a delivery.

Viewmont Pharmacy even has a consultation room where pharmacists can sit down privately with patients and talk through their medications. “Sometimes patients don’t know what their doctor prescribed,” Pitts says. “It’s important for patients to choose a pharmacy that takes the time to explain.” That personal attention begins almost immediately. Pitts says customers are often surprised that after only one or two visits, the staff already knows their names. Over the years, that familiarity has grown into relationships that span generations. Viewmont Pharmacy has served some local families for three generations, creating a sense of continuity that can be difficult to replicate in today’s automated world. At Viewmont Pharmacy, customers aren’t simply another name on a prescription label. They’re people the staff knows and cares about.

WHEN PERSONAL SERVICE MEANS GOING THE EXTRA MILE For Pitts, that commitment to customers isn’t just a business philosophy. “We’re in a business that is changing rapidly,” he says. “To us, it’s not work. This is a calling.” One longtime customer’s experience illustrates exactly what he means. The customer, who doesn’t drive, ran out of a prescription and called Pitts at home in a panic. Pitts reassured her that missing one dose would not be a problem and then arranged to have her medication delivered. 12

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

Viewmont Pharmacy offers free delivery Monday through Friday, giving customers another way to receive the medications they need without making a trip to the store. Pitts’ willingness to help, however, doesn’t necessarily end when the pharmacy closes. It’s not unusual for him to get a call on a Saturday from someone who has driven to the store only to realize they arrived after closing time. On more than one occasion, he has returned to the pharmacy to meet a customer so they can get their medication. That kind of personal service is becoming more difficult in today’s pharmacy environment, particularly as independent pharmacies navigate an increasingly complicated insurance landscape. But Pitts says the goal remains the same: doing what’s best for the patient. For Viewmont Pharmacy, that sense of purpose is what sets an independent neighborhood pharmacy apart from a big-box chain.

A GIFT SHOP HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT While many Hickory residents know Viewmont Pharmacy as a trusted neighborhood pharmacy, there is another side of the business they hope people will discover: its extensive selection of cards and gifts. In fact, the gift department may be one of Hickory’s best-kept secrets. As a Hallmark Gold Crown store, Viewmont Pharmacy offers far more than the cards customers might expect to find at a neighborhood pharmacy. Its selection includes well-

known brands such as Willow Tree, Evergreen, Enesco and Stonewall Kitchen, along with local favorites including Doxie Guy BBQ sauces. Viewmont Pharmacy also serves as the official in-person retail partner for Hickory FC, where fans can purchase official soccer merchandise, including team jerseys. The result is a gift selection with plenty of variety—from thoughtful keepsakes and home goods to specialty foods, cards and locally connected gifts. Perhaps most surprising to first-time shoppers are the quality, selection and prices. “Many of our customers are surprised at the quality, range and prices of our gifts,” Pitts says. Rather than simply being a place to pick up a gift while filling a prescription, Viewmont Pharmacy has become a destination for unique finds. Whether you’re looking for a birthday card, a hostess gift, something special for a friend, a locally inspired present or simply a little something unexpected, the gift department is worth exploring.

A PHARMACY AND MORE In an era when so many everyday experiences have become automated and impersonal, Viewmont Pharmacy offers a different approach—one rooted in relationships, community and a willingness to go the extra mile. It’s a place where they know your name, questions are welcomed and customers can discover an unexpectedly impressive selection of gifts along the way. After more than 70 years in Hickory, Viewmont Pharmacy continues to show that while the pharmacy business may be changing, the value of personal service never goes out of style.

learn more

VIEWMONT PHARMACY 53 13th Ave. NE | Hickory, NC 28601 828-322-1816 healthsmartnc.com/locations/viewmont

Pictured, top to bottom: Proud supporters of Hickory FC. Robin Ball & Kelly Teague arranging a gift display. Judy Geitner selecting a Hallmark card.

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

INTRODUCING THE

WHO’S WHO? OF HICKORY Every community is shaped by the people who bring their talent, passion and purpose to the place they call home. In Faces of the Foothills, we introduce you to local professionals whose work goes beyond what they do each day. Through their businesses, leadership and service, they create opportunities, build relationships and make a meaningful difference throughout our region. We hope you enjoy getting to know the people behind the businesses and discovering the stories, experiences and dedication that have helped them become trusted faces in our community.

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HICKORY’S

WHO’S WHO? Brittni Wilson Leigh Ashton Aesthetics The Face of Aesthetic Medicine For Brittni Wilson, aesthetic medicine is about much more than helping patients look their best. It is about making sure they feel heard, cared for and confident in the hands of someone they trust. Wilson began her career as a registered nurse before continuing her education to become a Family Nurse Practitioner. She discovered a passion for aesthetic medicine and the way it combines science, anatomy and artistry with the opportunity to help people feel more confident. That passion inspired Wilson to open Leigh Ashton Aesthetics, where she created a practice centered on safety, education and natural-looking results. Patients are never treated like a number or pressured into a procedure. Sometimes doing the right thing means recommending less, developing a longterm plan or simply saying no. “Aesthetics is an exciting industry, but it is still medicine,” Wilson says. “Beautiful results should never come at the expense of safety.” Wilson continually invests in advanced education, anatomy training, technology and safety protocols. Her approach reflects the best advice she has received: Never stop learning, and never become so confident that you stop being teachable. She is equally passionate about helping women and men feel like the best versions of themselves without changing what makes them uniquely beautiful. Her goal is for patients to look refreshed and balanced—not like different people. Wilson is grateful to have built her practice and raised her family in Catawba County. Leigh Ashton Aesthetics supports the community through local events, charitable giving and partnerships with other businesses. LeighAshtonAesthetics.com Facebook and Instagram: Leigh Ashton Aesthetics HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HICKORY’S

WHO’S WHO? Donna Price Bumblebee Interiors The Face of Interior Design Donna Price spent more than 20 years practicing psychology, but she never lost her desire to create. She always loved design, and building her first home in 1999 impassioned her creativity. Drawing on what she learned during the building process-Price opened Bumblebee Interiors in 2002. What began as a small interiors and gift shop expanded as customers responded to her design style and requested her help. In 2008, Price tripled the shop’s size and transformed it into a full-service interior design business. Today Bumblebee Interiors carries furniture, lighting, wallpaper, fabric, rugs, bedding, art, accessories, and gifts from more than 100 vendors, including local furniture manufacturers. Bumblebee Interiors is the only interior design business in the area that has its own storefront. Interior design is a full-time business that requires a team of professionals always working to create beautiful homes. The team handles projects ranging from furnishing one room to designing an entire home from the ground up. Among its most memorable projects are a vacation home in Idaho and the Lenoir-Rhyne president’s home. Price believes her past career continues to influence her work. “There is a lot of psychology in design-not just marital counseling,” she says. “How your home feels is so important to your overall happiness and health.” Born and raised in Caldwell County, Price moved to Catawba County after college and raised her family in the foothills. Bumblebee Interiors has proudly been voted Best Interior Design award in Best of the Foothills for the past 6 years.

bumblebeeinteriors.com Facebook and Instagram: Bumblebee Interiors

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HICKORY’S

WHO’S WHO? Nikkita Gibson Deal Financial Group The Face of Financial Education Nikkita Gibson didn’t plan on becoming a Financial Advisor. In her words, she “wandered in.” Gibson began her adult life as a theatrical costumer, but the long and unpredictable hours became unsustainable. Unsure of her next career move, she accepted opportunities and landed an administrative position with a financial planning company 11 years ago. When the advisor she worked with retired, Gibson helped transition his clients to Deal Financial Group. With support from President Dustin Deal, she continued her education, completed licensing requirements and grew as a financial advisor. She stayed for the opportunity to guide people through transitions—from welcoming a child or preparing for retirement to navigating divorce or the loss of a loved one. “It is always an honor to be entrusted with these experiences,” Gibson says. Education is central to her approach. She wants clients to understand what is happening, what choices they have and how those decisions can help them reach their goals. Questions about contributing to a 401(k), creating a budget or managing an inherited IRA can feel overwhelming, but clear guidance can make the next step less intimidating. Gibson especially enjoys participating in on-site 401(k) education days. Having lived in the Hickory area since age six, Gibson values its community, food and hiking. She gives back by volunteering with the Hickory Museum of Art and Habitat for Humanity. Outside of work, she has discovered speed puzzling with a friend. “I absolutely love it,” she says, “even though we’re not very speedy yet.” Investment Adviser Representative offering securities through Cetera Wealth Services, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Cetera Investment Advisers LLC, a registered investment adviser. Cetera is under separate ownership from any other named entity. Registered Address: 200 1st Ave NW, Ste 302, Hickory, NC 28601

dealfinancialgroup.com Facebook: Deal Financial Group Instagram: @dealfinancialgroup HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HICKORY’S

WHO’S WHO? Andrew Rader, CFP® Mumy Financial and Sollinda Family Office The Face of Financial Planning Andrew Rader moved from Northeast Ohio to Hickory with his family as a child—a change he calls one of the best things that ever happened to him. Hickory became the place where he built his career, relationships and life. After earning a degree in finance and banking from Appalachian State University, Rader entered the financial services industry. He was drawn to the analytical side of finance, but the relationships have kept him engaged for 12 years. “Money is deeply personal, and everyone’s financial journey looks different,” he says. “I enjoy sitting down with someone, understanding what’s important to them and helping them make smart decisions about their future.” Rader is president of Mumy Financial and director of financial planning for Sollinda Family Office. His work helps people see the bigger picture, including how investments, taxes, estate planning, insurance, retirement and family goals connect. His philosophy is reflected in Mumy Financial’s motto: “We. Help. People.” Rather than fitting everyone into the same solution, Rader believes financial planning should begin with listening and building trust. He helps host “Your Financial Journey,” a Saturday morning radio show on WHKY that provides non-sales-oriented financial education to listeners. Outside of work, Rader enjoys Hickory’s restaurants, parks and proximity to the mountains. Most mornings, he can be found walking his dogs, Opie and Taco, and he takes every opportunity he can to go fly-fishing. With his parents, sisters and three nephews all living nearby, Hickory remains more than Rader’s place of business. It is home. mumyfinancial.com sollindafamilyoffice.com LinkedIn: Andrew Rader Advisory Services through Sollinda Capital Management, LLC. Securities may be offered through Capital Investment Group, Inc. Members FINRA/SIPC

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

HICKORY’S

WHO’S WHO? Courtney Lyons Ella Blu The Face of Fashion Hickory has always been home for Courtney Lyons. Born and raised here, she spent several years in Charlotte after college before returning to her hometown. Lyons graduated from the University of Tennessee with a degree in interior design, but her love of design extended into fashion. She saw an opportunity to bring something different to Hickory: a boutique offering selected clothing, service and an experience for each customer. Twenty-three years ago, she opened Ella Blu. “What started as a love for fashion grew into a business that has allowed me to build relationships with generations of customers and become part of so many people’s lives,” Lyons says. Those relationships remain at the heart of Ella Blu. Its stylists take time to understand each customer’s personal style and help them find clothing that complements their personality, lifestyle and confidence. “We’re not just trying to sell clothing,” Lyons says. “We want people to feel welcomed, comfortable and confident when they walk through our doors.” Now Ella Blu is entering an exciting new chapter through franchising, allowing Lyons to help other women bring that same love of fashion and community to their own cities. She remains grateful to build her business in the place that raised her. Ella Blu supports local schools, the Women’s Resource Center, the Alzheimer’s Association and other community organizations. For Lyons, owning a local business has always meant more than running a store. It means investing in the community that has supported Ella Blu for more than two decades. ellablu.com Instagram: @shopellablu HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

Cast Your Vote! Is there a small business that you have enjoyed shopping with or who offered you great customer service? Let them know by voting for your favorites! 2026’s Best of the Foothills winners will be announced 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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HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

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Proudly Serving the Residents of Catawba County for Over 70 Years VIEWMONT

Hallmark Gold Crown Store, Evergreen, Willow Tree, Stonewall Kitchen, & Frey Brands

NEWTON

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3119 N Oxford

VIEWMONT PHARMACY

M-F 9AM–6PM SAT 9AM–1PM

M-F 8:30AM–6PM SAT 9AM–1PM

3 Locations To Better Serve You!

53 13th Ave. NE

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NOW AT THE Viewmont Pharmacy

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

Antique and Estate Jewelry

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HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

t a e r T ll a F A

What’s Cookin’?

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies Recipe by: Brittany Bolus, Cove & Kitchen | Photography by: Brittany Bolus

These giant pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies are the ultimate fall treat! Thick, soft and chewy—not cakey—they offer the perfect balance of pumpkin and warm fall spices. Coated in cinnamon sugar, these bakery-style cookies are packed with cozy flavor and make an irresistible dessert for fall baking. Yield: 6 giant cookies Prep Time: 15 minutes Bake Time: 12–14 minutes per batch INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/4 cup granulated sugar 3/4 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup pumpkin purée 1 egg 1 egg yolk 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 3/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 heaping teaspoon salt Cinnamon-Sugar Topping 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat and prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, cream of tartar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. 3. Prepare the pumpkin paste: Spread the pumpkin purée on a paper towel. Place another paper towel on top and gently press to absorb the moisture. Repeat with fresh paper towels until the pumpkin is thick and paste-like. You should end up with just under 1/4 cup. 4. Beat the butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium-high speed for 1 minute. Scrape down the sides of the bowl and mix for another 30 seconds. 5. Cream the sugars: Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Mix on medium speed until combined and fluffy. 6. Add the wet ingredients: Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract and prepared pumpkin paste. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. 7. Mix the dough: With the mixer on low, gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

About the Baker Brittany is a stay-at-home mom of three and the creator behind Cove & Kitchen, a blog focused on approachable cookies, cakes, and desserts for everyday kitchens. Instagram: @coveandkitchen Facebook: @coveandkitchen Website: www.coveandkitchen.com

8. Portion and coat: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Scoop the dough into 4.5-ounce portions—about 1/2 cup each—and roll each portion in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. 9. Shape the cookies: Gently shape the dough into tall mounds and arrange them several inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. These cookies bake up big! 10. Bake: Bake on the middle rack for 12–14 minutes, depending on the size of the cookies. 11. Let the cookies set: The cookies will continue to bake from the residual heat. Leave them on the baking sheet for at least 1 hour to finish setting before enjoying. HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

WE SEE PATIENTS OF ALL AGES ... WITH VARIOUS FOOT & ANKLE PROBLEMS AND ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS INTRODUCING ... DR. BRENNAN REARDON We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Brennan Reardon to our practice. She is accepting new patients and looks forward to helping you stay active and comfortable

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026

Take care of your feet, before it is too late. • Bunions • Ankle/Foot Sprains • Diabetic Wounds & Care • Ingrown Toenails • Plantar Warts • Flat Feet • Heel Pain • Hammertoes • Nail Fungus • And So Much More call to find out

Give us a call today at 828-304-0400 | Hickory | Morganton

HICKORY LIVING • OCTOBER 2026