home recipes subscribe advertise contact        
The People. The Places. The Way of Life.


    Villa Franca Estate

    The Perfect Place for a Special Occasion

    Ten years ago, Dennis and Ginger Black     bought the Villa Franca Estate in rural southwestern Rowan County, planning to renovate and live in the historic home, but also hoping to one day open it to the public as an event facility for weddings, luncheons, and corporate events.
     The dream is now reality, and the Blacks enjoy sharing the 150-year-old house’s history and beauty with visitors.
    
 Read more here.


   Love On A Leash

    Every Thursday, sporting his very own name     badge, Luke Honbarrier roams the halls at     Carolinas Medical Center NorthEast, eager to be petted or give a child a high five, but mostly to brighten the days of those both giving and getting care. The chocolate Labrador retriever is one of three pet therapy dogs at the medical center.
    The medical center has three teams of volunteers who perform pet therapy with patients – Ron Honbarrier and Luke; June Evans and her Sheltie, Lad; and Vickie Wilhelm and her West Highland Terrier, Wynston.
     “It’s a great diversion for people,” says Katherine Barrier, director of volunteer services for CMC NorthEast. “Sometimes the staff enjoys it as much as anyone else.”

    

Read more here.

 

It's Pumpkin Time

Go Beyond the Traditional Pie 
with These Delicious Treats


Autumn is the season to enjoy pumpkin recipes, whether you
carve your own and use the
filling for pies and other treats or rely on the canned variety. 
Either way, these recipes will 
satisfy your sweet tooth and get 
you in the mood for fall.

Click here for recipes.