Ever wondered how the influx of new residents and businesses from nearby Charlotte has changed the landscape of Catawba County? Discover the delicate balance between progress and preserving the old community spirit as we share personal memories like childhood trips to the iconic Terrell Country Store for a scoop of ice cream. Our special guest, a dedicated local historian, joins us to discuss their mission of safeguarding Catawba's rich heritage through oral storytelling, ensuring these treasured memories are passed down to future generations.

Explore Catawba County's efforts to make new residents feel at home by integrating contemporary artifacts into the local museum. Learn how the Catawba County Historical Association is bridging the gap between the old and new, highlighting the unique blend of urban and rural life that defines the area. From significant historical sites to the charm of local farmer's markets, we invite newcomers to connect with the vibrant history of Catawba County and discover the accessible aspects of local agriculture.

Get ready for captivating tales, including the story of Heinrich Weidner's bond with the local Catawba tribe, the tragic loss of the Matthias Barringer cabin, and the intriguing narratives behind museum artifacts. Celebrate the 150th anniversary of Murray's Mill and its restoration, and join us on guided tours of the Harper House filled with fascinating anecdotes. Finally, uncover the continuous research needed to preserve historic cemeteries and the valuable stories they hold. This episode is a heartfelt tribute to Catawba County's history and the unexpected stories that enrich our connection to this beloved community.

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What if a suburban family could transform a sprawling 147-acre farm into a hub of sustainable living? Join us on this episode of the Catawba Chronicles as we sit down with Melissa from True Cut Ranch in Claremont, North Carolina. Melissa shares her incredible journey from a modest suburban lot in Mecklenburg County to managing a diverse farm. From the initial resistance to the eventual embrace of rural life, Melissa walks us through the highs and lows of raising chickens, turkeys, ducks, and pigs while highlighting the importance of providing high-quality protein to their community.

Discover the true essence of real food and ethical farming as Melissa elaborates on the ethos of True Cut Ranch. Get an insider's look at their commitment to sustainable farming practices, ensuring both livestock and their feed are treated with the utmost care and respect. Learn why transparency and trust are critical in food sourcing, and why visiting local farms can make a significant difference. With a focus on educating themselves and their customers, Melissa and her team have cultivated a diverse clientele eager for authentic, responsibly-raised food.

Immerse yourself in the day-to-day life at True Cut Ranch, where sustainable practices and educational events create a harmonious environment. Hear about the joy of morning routines, the excitement of moving animals to fresh pastures, and innovative land management techniques. Melissa also shares her passion for teaching through classes and events, aiming to reconnect people with local farms and healthier food choices. Whether you're interested in practical tips for buying local produce affordably or the profound benefits of consuming locally-raised meat and vegetables, this episode promises an inspiring and informative conversation.

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What makes Hickory such a special place to live and work? Join us as we sit down with Clarissa Starnes, the Executive Director of the Hickory Museum of Art, who offers an intimate glimpse into her personal journey and unwavering connection to Hickory and Catawba County. Clarissa recounts her upbringing in this close-knit community, her education at Lenore Ryan University, and her remarkable 13-year career at the museum, which began with teaching art classes and led to her current role as executive director. Her heartfelt reflections on growing up in Hickory shed light on the unique charm and sense of belonging that define the area.

Discover the inspiring story of the Hickory Museum of Art, founded by Paul Whitener in 1944, and its evolution into a vital cultural hub for the community. We'll take you through the museum's journey, supported by generous community donations, grants, and memberships, and explore its mission to make art accessible to all, with no admission fee. As we celebrate the museum's 80-year legacy, we highlight some of our favorite pieces from past exhibits, showcasing the museum's deep connection to regional artists and its significant impact on the local cultural landscape.

Get ready for a sneak peek into the engaging events and innovative exhibits at the Hickory Museum of Art! From the immersive "Sea to Sea" installation to the upcoming Michael C. Thorpe exhibit "No Expectations," there's something for everyone to enjoy. Clarissa shares the benefits of museum membership, including early registration for popular summer camps and exclusive previews of new exhibitions. We invite you to explore the museum's dedication to art, creativity, and community, and encourage you to visit and stay connected with its exciting offerings.

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Step into the world of Erin Graves, Director of Programs at the Catawba Science Center, as she traces her roots from a quaint South Carolina town to her influential role in Hickory, North Carolina. With an academic background in biology and a spirited history of teaching in bustling New York City, Erin's voyage has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her adventures span the concrete jungle to the Alaskan wilderness, all while nurturing a fervent desire to bring science closer to the community. Our conversation reveals how a small-town girl's passion for science bloomed into a career that joyously intertwines her love for family, community, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Nostalgia meets innovation in today's episode, where we reminisce about the Catawba Science Center's ability to enchant young minds and stir the embers of curiosity within us. The center's evolution from its early days, featuring stars in the planetarium and streams teeming with life, to the cutting-edge 'Big League Fun' exhibit and invigorating summer camps, exemplifies its enduring commitment to education and entertainment. Dive into our discussion about the captivating marine exhibits and how the center is crafting experiences that blend the thrill of discovery with essential conservation messages, ensuring that the wonders of science remain accessible and enthralling for all.

Lastly, we shed light on the comprehensive and diverse programs that bring the Catawba Science Center to life, catering to a spectrum of ages and interests. From the meticulous planning of Summer Fun Science Camps to the engaging Science After Dark events for adults, our dialogue celebrates the center's dedication to fostering a love for learning in a fun-filled environment. Discover how the center reaches beyond its walls, impacting over 20 counties with its educational field trips, and how it continues to be a cornerstone of informal education, sparking imagination and building a future where science is a shared adventure for everyone. Join us on this journey that promises to leave you inspired and eager to explore the magic of science within your own community.

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When the gentle hum of countryside life mingles with the echoes of personal triumph, magic happens. Leah Livingston of Amillia Acres embodies this enchantment, sharing her poignant tale that interweaves loss, love, and the nurturing bond between humans and animals. Our conversation traverses the path from the origins of Amillia Acres— a touching homage to Leah's daughter—to the bustling homestead life that now thrives in North Carolina. Together, we uncover the therapeutic role animals play in our lives, with my insights on animal-human emotional support drawing from a background in zoology.

Venture with us into the rustic charm of goat farming, where Leah's journey gives us insights into how a thriving family business unfolds. Discover how raising goats, chickens, and rabbits has fostered a bond with nature and instilled invaluable life lessons in her children. Leah peels back the layers of her artisanal soap-making process, from the diligent milking to the meticulous crafting of each bar, reflecting her deep passion and commitment to every product. We immerse ourselves in the intimate dance of rural entrepreneurship, celebrating the bliss of creating and the fulfillment of connecting with customers locally and online.

Wrap up your visit by experiencing the joy of bottle-feeding baby goats under the careful guidance of Leah at her vibrant farm. These treasured moments tether the community to rural rhythms and showcase the mutual benefits of human-animal interactions. For a day filled with laughter and warmth, we invite you to join us at Amillia Acres, where a world of simplicity and connection awaits. Keep up with all farm happenings and share your own stories with us on social media, as this episode is just the beginning of a conversation that promises to be as enriching as it is enlightening.

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Have you ever walked the streets of your town and wondered what secrets lie beneath the very ground you tread?  Let's embark on a journey through time with Alex Floyd, the esteemed local historian from Newton Library's Rhodes Room, as he weaves the narrative of Catawba County's storied past and its profound transformation. Alex traces his own path from a Raleigh native to a devoted chronicler of our county's legacy, revealing the meticulous research behind the celebrated "The Catawbans" series. We'll traverse the bygone eras of downtown Hickory, once a humming epicenter of furniture crafting and railroad commerce, connecting the dots between past industries and the cultural milestones that have crafted the identity of our beloved Catawba County.

Settle in as we uncover the role of historical research in unraveling the mysteries behind paranormal encounters within the community. Alex's skills stretch well beyond the library shelves as he aids residents in piecing together the histories of their homes and previous occupants through property records and obituary archives. Our discussion uncovers the treasure chest of resources within the local library. Whether you're piecing together your family tree, tracing the steps of early settlers, or simply thirsting for local lore, this episode stands as a testament to the enduring importance of community-based libraries and the guardians of our collective history.

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Have you ever planted a seed of change that blossomed into a community cornerstone? Shelley Orr, the dynamic Library Services Manager for Catawba County, did just that as she helped transform a library corner lot into a thriving community garden. Our vibrant chat navigates her anthropological roots to her flourishing role, where she weaves cultural threads into a tapestry of library services. We swap tales of children's laughter echoing through storytime sessions and the magical way a garden can unite diverse volunteers for a common cause. Catawba County's libraries are more than just repositories of books; they are lively hubs where toddlers to teens bloom under the canopy of engaging educational programs.

Imagine a library where checking out a laptop is as easy as borrowing a storybook. In this place, technology is not a barrier but a bridge to opportunities. This episode is a journey through the modern marvels of Catawba County's library system, where Shelley Orr unpacks the treasure trove of resources available at your fingertips. From Wi-Fi hotspots to job interview prep, the library is a lifeline for those navigating the digital divide. It's a testament to how libraries have evolved, becoming beacons of learning and connection where entrepreneurs and students alike can grow their skills and dreams.

We conclude our episode with a heartwarming invitation to join the Catawba Chronicles community, where each voice adds to the melody of our county's story. With Shelley Orr's spirit of innovation echoing in our ears, we encourage listeners to discover the myriad of programs that stitch our community closer. From felting workshops to Dungeons and Dragons escapades, Catawba County's libraries are a crossroads where creativity, support, and learning converge. Tune in to hear how every page turned at the library is a step toward a more connected and enriched life.

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Season two of the Catawba Chronicles opens its doors wider than ever, inviting you to pull up a chair alongside me, Oliver Connor, as we unearth the heartbeat of our community through the stories and jobs of its most influential citizens.  With the first 750 words of our latest episode setting the stage, you'll realize that this isn't just another local podcast; it's a journey shared by all of us. We'll explore the unique narrative of our home, celebrating the people and events that have not only shaped our history but have also touched the people of Catawba County in profound ways.

Joining us behind the scenes is the formidable Emily Huling, whose insight proved invaluable during our Friends of the Library feature. Under her guidance, expect a series of monthly episodes that promise to bring you closer to the heartbeat of where we live. Whether you're an established fan or a curious newcomer, these conversations are designed to resonate with you, offering both familiarity and discovery. We're not just recounting the past; we're actively participating in the present, using our platform to highlight the richness of our community’s culture and the individuals who contribute to its vibrancy. So, stay tuned, lend us your ears, and perhaps even your editing skills, as we embark on this new chapter together, celebrating the spirit of Catawba County and its remarkable residents.

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For our next episode of "The Catawba Chronicles," we are thrilled to feature a special guest whose infectious spirit and commitment to service have touched countless lives: Ben Triplett.

Growing up, Ben was known for his jovial nature and the ability to lift the spirits of everyone around him. He was a breath of fresh air, someone whose presence could brighten any day. His warm-hearted nature has followed him into adulthood and has been at the core of his life's work.

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In this episode of "The Catawba Chronicles," we are excited to introduce you to Sherry Butler, a former school board member and local politician from Catawba County, NC. Sherry has dedicated her life to improving education and advocating for her community, and her story is an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance and civic engagement.

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