Catawba Calling
The town of Hickory, North Carolina winds along the Catawba River nestled at the base of the Appalachian Mountains and is full of rich history, art and culture.
Starting off as only a small tavern, the town of Hickory and its surrounding areas have grown to a bustling market, while still preserving their history.
This blend of traditional and new has attracted a people with a similar dedication to crafting their better future.
Stories
Against the Grain
Master woodworker Eddie Hamrick has made pieces for presidents, a queen, musicians,
charities and 19 churches. Follow his story to learn about how he came back from a coma
stronger than ever and achieved his American dream.
For Ida
Dre Rhinehart is a determined student, athlete and family member. As he prepares for his first year as a college student, Dre reflects on the encouraging words of his mom, who passed away almost a year ago.
Mama Addie
Addie Shuford, or better known as Mama Shuford, is just a remarkable human being. Although she has gone through an incredible amount of adversity, she is still such a light in her community.
Disgrace to Dignity
From inmate to prison Chaplin in the very same jail in which he was an inmate, Rev. Reggie Longcrier transformed his life and now helps others navigate from disgrace to dignity.
A Seed Planted
Coming to the United States after Vietnam War, Wang Pao Yang decided to let go of his children despite the Hmong family tradition.
The Story Keeper
Peggy Mainess has a head full of unusual stories and a passion for connecting people with their past.
Finding the Balance
After finding peace in Tai Chi, Mary works to spread its benefits to those in Hickory and surrounding communities.
Modern Luthier
Samantha Marshall, a self-taught guitar repairer, reflects on the biggest challenge of her life and how it connects to her need and love for music.
Might Not Be NASCAR
Justin Carroll talks about his passion for racing and the challenge of becoming a professional in
the sport.
The Selfless Shellfish
Wearing a hot suit, facing extreme temperatures, Casey Shell lives every day to save lives by making people smile.
Raising the Bar
Chad Ledford was a convicted felon. Money and drugs ran his life. But now at the age of 36, he is changing his life, and will start school at UNC Chapel Hill in the fall.
Clean Slate
Raed Domat used to call Syria home. Now he is finding his place in Hickory, with the support of his family, his community, and his dedication to running the town’s newest car wash.
![](https://cpjw.unc.edu/2018/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/cache/2018/05/Sarah-1/178852014.jpg "Bruce Beerbower calls himself "Pa Nature" for a reason. He has dedicated
the last 37 years the Catawba Science Museum as their lead naturalist. From West Virginia to Georgia to North Carolina, Bruce speaks for the trees, the plants, and the animals.")
Father Nature
Bruce Beerbower calls himself "Pa Nature" for a reason. He has dedicated
the last 37 years the Catawba Science Museum as their lead naturalist. From West Virginia to Georgia to North Carolina, Bruce speaks for the trees, the plants, and the animals.
Beyond the Binary
Theo Barklage reflects on his identity as a trans man, and on how his family’s unwavering
support allows him to bring “reckless optimism” into his role as a mentor to kids in OUTright Youth, an organization that builds safe environments for LGBTQ+ youth.
Live to Grow
Michael Waltuch, co-owner of Catawba Farms and Carolina Vines, strives to live his life with kindness, creativity, and learning every day.
Role Play
The stage gives Donovan Harper a platform to express his experiences to anyone that will listen.
Carolina
Photojournalism
Workshop
