Hickory Living February 2026

ShannonHickoryLiving@gmail.com 704-650-1278 MacAdam

mac@oasisluxuryhomes.com (484) 769-7445

Shannon O’Donnell Advertising

Lauren Platts Editor CurrentsLauren@gmail.com

Carson Coleman

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

Lauren

Lisa

Welcome to the

February Issue

By Lauren Platts

ebruary invites us to slow down, catch our breath, and lean into what truly matters—our health, our relationships, and the communities that support us every step of the way.

It’s a month rooted in care and connection, and this issue is a reflection of just that.

In this issue, we spotlight the people, practices, and resources helping our community live fuller, healthier lives—mind, body, and spirit. From preventive care and holistic wellness to the small daily choices that make a big difference, these

stories are a reminder that well-being looks different for everyone and that support is closer than we think.

February is also a celebration of love in all its forms. Love for our families and friends. Love for the places we call home. And love for the local businesses that pour their hearts into serving this community day in and day out.

That’s why we’re especially proud to recognize the Best of the Foothills winners. Congratulations to this year’s honorees and heartfelt thanks to every business that participated. Your passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence are what make the Foothills such

a vibrant place to live and work. And to our readers: thank you for shopping local, voting for your favorites, and continuing to show up for the businesses that shape our community.

As you turn these pages, we hope you feel inspired, encouraged, and reminded that when a community supports one another, everyone thrives.

Here’s to health, wellness, love, and celebrating the very best of the Foothills.

Lauren Platts Editor, Hickory Living Magazine

CurrentsLauren@gmail.com

Frye Regional’s Structural Heart Program, combining open heart and cath lab teams, marked a milestone of 100 TAVR procedures in December 2025.

THE HEART OF HICKORY

In the dedicated electrophysiology suite, Frye Regional’s electrophysiologists and cardiologists continue expanding advanced heart rhythm therapies close to home.

Frye Regional Medical Center Provides Cardiac Care Close to Home

By Lisa Crawford, Director

For more than three decades, Frye Regional Medical Center has stood at the center of Hickory’s health care community. What began as a small cardiology practice has evolved into one of the region’s most advanced heart programs, where specialists treat every part of the heart with precision and compassion. Today, Frye Regional, a Duke LifePoint facility and Duke Health Affiliate in Heart, delivers tertiary-level cardiac care close to home.

A Full Spectrum of Heart Care

“Our cardiology program represents the culmination of several long-standing practices in this community,” says interventional cardiologist John Morrison, MD, FACC. “As the field of cardiology has evolved, we’ve grown with it.”

From prevention and diagnosis to the most complex interventions and surgeries, Frye Regional’s services span the full continuum of care. General cardiologists manage hypertension, cholesterol, and long-term heart health, while subspecialists focus on rhythm, structure, and circulation.

“Today’s best cardiovascular centers focus on a multidisciplinary, program-based approach, where the historic individual practice model gives way for collaboration between cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, electrophysiologists and vascular surgeons,” says Brett Starr, MD, FACS, cardiovascular and thoracic surgeon and consulting associate faculty at Duke University School of Medicine. “I am proud that Frye has fully embraced this model. We’re the only center in the region offering this complete, collaborative approach close to home.”

Restoring Rhythm with Innovation

Frye Regional’s electrophysiology team leads the way in rhythm management. We handle everything from atrial fibrillation to complex ventricular arrhythmias,” explains cardiologist and electrophysiologist Ankur Tiwari, MD. “We implant pacemakers and defibrillators and perform advanced ablations to restore normal rhythm.”

These procedures reflect a commitment to safer, more effective rhythm restoration using the latest cardiac technology.

on the cover

From prevention and diagnosis to the most complex interventions and surgeries, Frye Regional’s cardiovascular services span the continuum of heart and vascular care, including a depth of local board-certified cardiologists and surgeons.

Advanced Coronary and Structural Interventions

Frye Regional’s interventional cardiologists treat a broad spectrum of coronary artery disease. What began with balloon angioplasty has advanced to sophisticated stent technology and high-risk interventions supported by the Impella® heart pump, an FDA-approved mechanical device that temporarily assists the heart during emergency situations.

When surgery is needed, Frye’s cardiovascular surgeons provide seamless care. “We perform coronary bypass, valve replacements, and other complex open-heart surgeries right here,” Dr. Morrison notes. “Patients don’t have to leave Hickory for advanced procedures.”

In December 2025, Drs. Morrison, Starr, and cardiologist Jonathan Mayl, MD, completed Frye Regional’s 100th Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), a minimally invasive procedure that replaces the aortic valve without open-heart surgery. As a Duke Health Affiliate in Heart, Frye became the first hospital in the Western Piedmont to offer TAVR when it launched the program in July 2024. The procedure shortens recovery time, reduces complications, and restores quality of life for patients.

“Before TAVR, some patients had no alternatives,” Dr. Starr says. “Now many have a second chance, without leaving Hickory.”

Transforming Stroke Prevention

Frye Regional is also advancing options for stroke risk reduction in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AFib). Led by Dr. Tiwari, the team uses an FDA-approved device to seal off the left atrial appendage, a small pocket in the heart where blood clots often form. By closing this area, the procedure lowers stroke risk and often allows many patients to discontinue long-term blood thinners.

“This procedure has been life-changing for many in our community,” Dr. Tiwari says.

Innovative Facilities and Imaging Technology

“Cardiology is as much about diagnostics as it is about treatment,” Dr. Morrison explains.

Frye Regional features five cardiac catheterization labs, including a dedicated electrophysiology lab and a state-of-the-art

Innovative imaging technology, including the hospital’s 512-slice CT scanner, supports Frye Regional’s cardiovascular services.

“Before TAVR, some patients had no

alternatives,” Dr. Starr says.

“Now many have a second chance, without leaving Hickory.”

hybrid operating room where cardiologists and surgeons can work together. If a minimally invasive case requires open-heart surgery, the surgical team can transition immediately without moving the patient.

The hospital’s 512-slice CT scanner captures detailed heart images in just one or two beats, allowing precise measurement of valves and coronary arteries.

“Our imaging lets us plan every step of care with confidence,” Dr. Morrison adds.

Expanding Vascular and Peripheral Services

To support the body’s entire vascular system, Frye Regional’s cardiologists, vascular surgeons, and interventional radiologists collaborate to treat aortic, cerebral, and peripheral vascular diseases, conditions that restrict blood flow to the brain, organs, or limbs. Treatments include aortic surgery, carotid artery surgery, minimally invasive stenting, and surgical bypass procedures when needed.

Excellence Through Collaboration

Frye Regional’s affiliation with Duke Health in Heart ensures continuous quality improvement and evidence-based outcomes.

“Every case is examined internally,” Dr. Morrison explains. “We’re constantly evaluating how to improve.”

That commitment has shaped a program where patients receive big-city experience with small-town compassion.

The Heart of a Community

As Frye Regional looks toward more TAVR procedures, expanded electrophysiology labs, and continued growth in structural and vascular programs, its mission remains constant: delivering advanced, compassionate care for the people of Hickory and beyond.

“Everything we do comes back to serving this community,” says Philip Greene, MD, chief executive officer of Frye Regional Medical Center. “Our heart care isn’t hours away. It’s right here, close to home at Frye Regional.”

learn more

To learn more about cardiology services at Frye Regional, visit FryeMedCtr.com or call 828.261.0009.

Winners!

This year’s Best of the Foothills is a celebration of the incredible businesses that make our community shine. To every business that participated, THANK YOU! Your hard work, passion, and commitment to excellence are the reason the Foothills continue to grow, connect, and thrive. You don’t just serve customers; you help shape the character of our community.

A huge thank-you as well to our readers, whose enthusiasm and loyalty made this year’s voting such a success. By shopping local and taking the time to vote for your favorites, you showed just how much these businesses matter. This issue is a reflection of that shared pride, support, and hometown spirit.

And now… drumroll, please! It’s time to reveal the winners.

Best Aesthetics/Med Spa Vitality

Best Auto Collision Repair Custom Body Works

Best Auto Dealers Paramount Automotive of Hickory

Best Auto Repair Auto Fitness Center, Inc

Best Breakfast: Cafe Gouda

Best Caterer Liazzo’s Catering

Best Chiropractor Hilton Family Chiropractic Clinic

Best Consignment/Thrift Store Jitterbugs Consignment

Best Cosmetic Surgery Center: Piedmont Plastic Surgery & Dermatology

Best Day Spa/Massage/Facials: Swisher Skin

Best Dentist: Growing Smiles Pediatric Dentistry

Best Dining: Backstreets Bar & Grill

Best Fitness/Gym: Burn Boot Camp Hickory

Best Golf Course: Catawba Country Club

Best Hair Salon: Art + Science A Salon

Best Hardware Store: Killians Hardware

Best Home Builder: Moss-Marlow Building Co.

Best Insurance Company: Catawba Valley Insurance Agency

Best Interior Designer: Bumblebee Interiors, LLC

Best Jewelry Store: Oz’s Jewelers

Best Landscaper/Lawn Service: Scenic View Landscapes

Best Law Firm: King & Rowe

Best Nursery: Settlemyre Nursery

Best Orthodontist: Small & Piers Orthodontics

Best Palliative Care/Hospice: Via/Hospice and Palliative Care

Best Pet Groomer: Elizabeth & Co. Pet Salon

Best Place for Cocktails/Wine: Backstreets Bar & Grill

Best Real Estate Agency/Team: Joan Killian Everett Team

Best Sandwich Shop: Hatch Sandwich Bar

Best Veterinarian: Catawba County Animal Hospital

Best Wedding Venue: Amity Creek Farms

Best Weight Loss Center: Physician’s Plan Weight Loss + Wellness

Best Women’s Boutique: Aqua B

Weekend Getaway Around the Wheel:

How These Seagrove Couples Keep Centered

by Vanessa Infanzon

David Fernandez met his wife, Alexa Modderno, in 2001 on Match.com while living in Greensboro. Although David had been a ceramic artist since his college days in the 1970s, Alexa worked as an insurance broker and hadn’t considered pottery as a career until David needed her help filling orders. After the experience, Alexa decided to quit her job and make pottery full time. David offered his support but made it clear that she needed to find her own path and style.

“I think it’s been really good for our marriage,” says David, mayor of Seagrove since 2015. “We do different things. She makes what she likes to make, and I make what I like to make.” In 2005, the couple moved to Seagrove and launched Seagrove Stoneware, their gallery and workshop on West Main Street. Over the years, they added the Seagrove Stoneware Inn, an Airbnb, and The General Wine and Brew, also located on the same street.

The couple doesn’t collaborate on pottery, but every morning they discuss what’s on the agenda for the day. They intentionally limit stress and include exercise in their routine. David plays golf without a cart to get in 16,000 to 18,000 steps. Alexa, in preparation for hiking the Camino Trail in April, walks the North Carolina Zoo trails in Asheboro.

Seagrove, the Handmade Pottery Capital of the United States, is less than two hours from the Lake Norman area. Many of the town’s 100 potters are couples, like Alexa and David, who live and work in the same space. Preserving their relationships and encouraging wellness are top priorities as they collaborate in their creative endeavors.

Carol Gentithes and Fred Johnston

Carol and Fred, married for 30 years, approach pottery differently. Carol loves texture and color, and literature inspires her work. She plays with the surreal, using animal sculpture to explore the human condition. Fred gravitates toward prehistoric imagery, such as the Mimbres people who lived in New Mexico along the Gila River around A.D. 100. He uses wood-fired and salt glaze techniques.

Johnston (L) and Carol Gentithes working in their Seagrove studio - Photo Credit HeartofNorthCarolina.com

Self-care: “Sometimes you’re not always in the best place, but the work demands it. The work is a way to become present. There are, of course, moments of frustration. Certain days it’s better to grab a broom and sweep the floor.”

Connection: “We check in on each other and try to listen and care for each other. We try to do what’s best for one another.”

Info: https://johnstonandgentithes.com

Hours: Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m., 336.873.9176

Bruce Gholson and Samantha Henneke

For 31 years, Bruce and Samantha of Bulldog Pottery have worked as a team, creating both independent and collaborative work. The couple’s process promotes a variety of designs, new pottery series, and a continuous stream of ideas.

Self-care: “We both allow each other to indulge in extracurricular art hobbies. I love watching online painting classes, painting with watercolor, and design work, while Bruce investigates projects in lapidary, metal, and woodwork. These art hobbies fulfill our creative well and keep us motivated and energized.”

Connection: “We are currently raising our one-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier together. We love visiting museums, beachcombing, cooking, and yard work.”

Info: www.bulldogpottery.com

Visit: After February, open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; call for Sunday and Monday hours. | 336.302.3469, 336.302.4452

Bobbie Thomas and Scott Thomas

Self-care: “We both are worker bees and struggle to take time for ourselves, but we find that a walk in the woods does wonders for rejuvenation. It’s amazing how 10 minutes in the garden can help.”

Connection: “We collect antiques. Each of us collects different things from the past. If you’ve ever been to Thomas Pottery, you’ll see collections of old hand tools, wash pots, green glass— something around every corner. We never pay much; it’s all about the treasure hunt for us.”

Info: https://www.thomaspottery.com

Visit: Open Wednesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., 336.879.4145

Cat Viera and Jared Zehmer

Cat and Jared specialize in pottery thrown in small batches. For the past four years, their collaborative projects have showcased their unique styles. Jared has more than 20 years of throwing experience, while Cat has only a few years and draws from her background in painting and tattoo design. Together, they value work designed for both beauty and function and enjoy exploring surface design as a form of expression.

Self-care: “It’s important to have a well-balanced lifestyle that carves out time for work, play, and rest. I start each day with movement to invigorate the body and clear the mind, while Jared appreciates a quieter, more contemplative start—both choosing forms of active meditation before approaching the studio.”

Together since 1982, Bobbie and Scott combine their talents to create functional and decorative stoneware pottery. Bobbie’s passion is handbuilding signature pieces such as trays and platters. She embellishes her work by hand-painting, adding sculpted flowers, or using clay stamps. Scott creates his own style of mugs, teapots, large serving bowls, and baking dishes with distinctive designs.

Connection: “We love spending time together over a good coffee. Since both of us were raised in coastal regions, we enjoy taking trips to the beach with our dogs. Travel time is often used for researching and discussing ceramic processes and materials that might be interesting to test or incorporate into our practice. As we walk the beach, we share sources of inspiration, personal experiences, and reflections on what drives us to make pottery.”

Info: https://catvierapottery.com, h ttps://www.jaredzehmerpottery.com

Visit: Available by appointment: catvierapottery@gmail.com, jaredzehmerpottery@gmail.com

Note: Before visiting, call ahead to ensure the studio is open, even during regularly scheduled business hours.

Weekend Getaway

Pottery by Bruce Gholson and Samantha Henneke of Bulldog Pottery Photo Credit Bulldog Pottery

Upcoming Seagrove Events

Springtime Tea: March 14, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Enjoy tea and treats while wandering through Blue Hen Pottery, Dean and Martin, Eck McCanless, From the Ground Up, Red Hare Pottery, and Thomas Pottery. www.teawithseagrovepotters.com

Seagrove Potters Spring Pottery Tour and Kiln Openings: April 17–19, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Tour studios, meet potters, and get a first look at their newest creations.

discoverseagrove.com/ events/celebration-of-spring-main-event

North Carolina Pottery Center’s Learn to Turn Workshops: Sign up for one of Cat Viera’s beginner pottery classes offered throughout the year. www.ncpotterycenter.org/ learn-to-turn-workshops

What’s Cooking?

A Southern Staple

By Kathy Dicken Photograph courtesy Kathy Dicken

Classic Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits is the perfect Southern comfort food and one of my all-time favorite meals. In this dish, creamy cheese grits are topped with a savory sauce of sautéed shrimp, bacon, sweet onion, and bell pepper. It makes a sophisticated yet simple meal that works beautifully for any occasion—from a lazy weekend brunch to a cozy “breakfast for dinner.”

While many variations exist, the authentic ‘Lowcountry’ style is defined by its smoky foundation of the salty, fatty deliciousness of sautéed bacon.

To prepare it, simply start by frying the bacon until perfectly crisp, then use the reserved drippings to sauté your shrimp and vegetables. This creates a rich, flavorful base without the need for a long list of ingredients. Simply spoon the saucy mixture over a bowl of velvety cheese grits and garnish with the reserved bacon crumbles and fresh green onions. To make it the perfect Southern dish, serve it with warm cornbread to soak up every last drop of the tasty sauce!

Classic Lowcountry Shrimp and Grits

Servings: 4 • Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 20 minutes

Kathy Dicken lives in Huntersville and is the author of The Tasty Bits food blog.

For more meal ideas that are simple and delicious, you can follow her blog at www.thetastybits.com or on Instagram @thetastybits.

INGREDIENTS:

For the grits:

1 cup coarse stone-ground grits

4 cups water

1 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons butter

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

For the shrimp:

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Salt, to taste

For the sauce:

4 slices of bacon

1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped

1/2 cup sweet onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 tablespoons butter

3 tablespoons flour

1 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Garnish: chopped green onions

INSTRUCTIONS:

For the grits, bring the water to a boil in a saucepan, then stir in the grits. Cover and cook over low heat until thick and tender, about 15 minutes. Season with salt to taste, then stir in 3 tablespoons of butter and shredded Cheddar cheese. Keep warm.

While the grits cook, combine shrimp, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and salt in a bowl. Set aside to marinate. Next, cook the bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Remove the bacon, drain it on paper towels, crumble, and set aside. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the bacon drippings in the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.

Finally, add the marinated shrimp and cook until the shrimp turn bright pink, about 3 minutes.

In another pan, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Then slowly add the chicken broth, whisking until thickened.

Pour the roux into the skillet with the shrimp and vegetables. Add the Worcestershire sauce and bacon, stirring to combine. To serve, spoon the creamy grits onto plates and top with the shrimp mixture. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.