Lake Norman CURRENTS July 2025

SERVING LAKE NORMAN

JULY 2025

Boys of Summer Lake Norman HarborHippos

Dwellings

A cliffside spa retreat

Real Page-Turners This summer’s hot titles

Weekend Getaway Sylva – the mountains are calling

D rs . M ichael c oleMan anD M ichael F oran

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FROM WHERE I SIT

The magazine by and for the people who call Lake Norman home

Soaking Up the Sun

Publisher MacAdam Smith Mac@LNCurrents.com

And other sources for local fun

I don’t know about you, but I feel like summer really snuck up on me. It seems like not too long ago I was cycling through my rotation of favorite hoodies to keep me warm, and worrying about whether it was ever going to warm up enough to play some tennis in a few less layers of clothing.

Yet, here we are, and now it’s just the most recent string of afternoon and evening summer rainstorms that are tripping up my tennis game (well, not to mention my natural gift for double faults and unforced errors). I haven’t even really been able to play enough to start re-aggravating my annual summertime tennis injuries – the shoulder that starts to hurt, the ankle I regularly tweak, my bum left knee that never fails to remind me that I’ve gotten another year older. The good news is, if any of these ailments (or worse) visit you, there are so many ways to entertain yourself around the lake while your body tries to heal from what you’ve done to it.

For starters, you could enjoy someone else doing the sports thing by catching a Lake Norman HarboHippos baseball game. These boys of summer are a new team in the Old North State League wooden bat collegiate summer league, and made their debut in early June. They play out of Huntersville Athletic Park and the games are very family-friendly, with lots of themed nights and their very popular mascot, Normie.

Or maybe, if the onslaught of these hot, muggy summer days is starting to take a toll on you, our “Weekend Getaway” contributor Vanessa Infanzon may just have a wonderful cure. She recently visited the mountain town of Sylva, and says it’s an absolute must-see, must-play and must-do. It’s about a two-and-a-half hour drive from most places around the lake, and definitely worth the trip. She offers lots of lodging, dining and entertaining ideas in her review of the area starting on Page 26.

If neither of those options blow your hair back, you can always check out a few of the events we listed in our “News Around the Lake” section on Page 16. It’s only a fraction of all the things July has to offer around Lake Norman – everything from Open Swim in the deep, cool waters of The Quarry at Carrigan Farms in Mooresville to free concerts in Davidson.

And finally, it might also be time to shift your cooking habits to meet your summertime tastebuds.

Nothing speaks to the season better than a fresh, flavorful summer salad. Our “Tasty Bits” contributor Kathy Dicken has crafted a quick and easy recipe for Caprese Chicken Salad that comes together in less than an hour that features fresh basil and mozzarella, topped with a balsamic glaze and olive oil. Turn to Page 46 for her mouthwatering concoction.

Wishing you a summertime with as few rainstorms and injuries as possible, and with all the fun and flavor you can find!

— LH Lori Helms Editor Lori@LNCurrents.com

Advertising Director Sharon Simpson Sharon@LNCurrents.com

Advertising Sales Executives

Carole Lambert Carole@LNCurrents.com

Beth Packard Beth@LNCurrents.com

Event Coordinator Alison Smith Alison@LNCurrents.com

Social Media Specialist Lauren Platts social@lncurrents.com

Design & Production idesign2, inc

Contributing Writers Trevor Burton Kathy Dicken Mickey Dunaway Allison Futterman Vanessa Infanzon Karel Bond Lucander Stella Mackler Bek Mitchell-Kidd Allie Spencer Tonya R. Woods

Contributing Photographers Lisa Crates

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Contents

About the Cover: Jump into summer with us the water’s fine!

CHANNEL MARKERS Movers, shakers and more at the lake

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LIMITLESS

A section for LKN residents 55+

News Around the Lake July fun and festivities

Live Like A Native

Cornelius history museum expands

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We’re Just Crazy About

20

Getting to Know You

40

Moment in Time

42

Limitless Learning

The Final Frontier

Deeds that go undone?

Paper Skyscraper in Davidson

Tom Cotter and The Depot at Gibson Mill

28 FEATURES Summertime Reads

24

Navigators

26

Weekend Getaway

28

Game On

36

Nonprofit Spotlight

Eating, drinking, cooking and fun

Young Leaders

avidson College’s Virginia Barber

Lancaster’s BBQ

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Lake Norman’s Best Awards Spotlight

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Wine Time

46

Tasty Bits

MAN ’S OR N

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Spa Retreat

DINE + WINE

Peninsula Community Foundation

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Lake Norman HarborHippos

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How we live at the lake

Sylva – something for everyone

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DWELLINGS

Meet country music artist Ansel Brown

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Main Street Books shares what’s hot

LA K E

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Sugar Mountain escape

Lake Norman CURRENTS is a monthly publication available through direct-mail home delivery to the most affluent Lake Norman residents. It also is available at area Harris Teeter supermarkets, as well as various Chambers of Commerce, real estate offices and specialty businesses.

The entire contents of this publication are protected under copyright.

Unauthorized use of any editorial or advertising content in any form is strictly prohibited. Lake Norman CURRENTS magazine is wholly owned by Oasis Magazines, Inc.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

Muscadet and seafood pairing

Caprese Chicken Salad

Mission Statement: Lake Norman CURRENTS magazine will embody the character, the voice and the spirit of its readers, its leaders and its advertisers. It will connect the people of Lake Norman through inspiring, entertaining and informative content, photography and design; all of which capture the elements of a well-lived life on and around the community known as Lake Norman.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

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Channel Markers

Movers, Shakers, Style, Shopping, Trends, Happenings and More at Lake Norman Cool off from the summer’s heat with a plunge at The Quarry at Carrigan Farms.

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

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CHANNEL MARKERS - news around the lake

A Month’s Worth

of Fun compiled by Lori Helms

Visit the Carolina Raptor Center in Huntersville this month for its “Eagle Extravaganza.” Left, the crowds are big for Davidson’s Concerts @ the Circle.

July means that summer is in full force around Lake Norman, and there’s always something to do, see or try thanks to our eclectic towns and all they have to offer. Here are just a few family-friendly fun ideas for those who might be new to the area, those who are looking to get reacquainted with their town or for those tired of hearing their children whine, “I’m bored!” No excuses ... here we go:

4th of July at Birkdale Village

Grab your red, white and blue crew and join the folks at Huntersville’s Birkdale Village for an Independence Day celebration. Enjoy the annual bike parade and wet-down by the Huntersville Fire Department. The bike parade is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. (make sure yours is festively decorated), followed by Huntersville Fire Department’s wet-down at 11:30 a.m., then enjoy the block party in The Plaza featuring face painting, balloon twisters, magicians and more.

There will be a Bald Eagle Feeding at 11 a.m., with a bird show at 1 p.m., and Golden Eagle Keeper Chat at 2:30 p.m. Seating is limited for the bird show and is on a first come, first served basis. Seating begins 15 minutes in advance.

Tickets are $35 for adults, $25 for children and admission is free for active-duty military members and veterans. The Carolina Raptor Center is at 6000 Sample Road in Huntersville. Get more details at www.carolinaraptorcenter.org.

Music to Your Ears

There is no shortage of music to be heard around the lake, with most towns offering a free summer concert series at fun public venues.

In Davidson this month, check out the Bon Jovi tribute band Shot Thru the Heart on Saturday, July 19. The performance is part of the 2025 Concerts @ the Circles series, held on the first and third Saturdays of the month on Jetton Street near Clean Juice (605 Jetton St., Suite D). Acoustic artists start the show at 5 p.m., with the headliners taking stage from 7 to 9 p.m.

In preparation for the bike parade and block party, Birkdale Commons Parkway from Talbots to the theaters will be blocked off. All parking decks will be available. Don’t want to worry about parking? Valet services will be offered in the Dick’s Sporting Goods parking lot. Learn more at www.birkdalevillage.com

On the other side of the lake, another tribute band — Petty Rewind — will perform Saturday, July 19, as part of the Music in the Park series presented by the Denver/Lake Norman Rotary Club. Rain or shine, music will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Rescue Squad Park, 7819 Galway Lane in Denver. Food trucks and a beer/wine garden will also be available. Learn more at www.lknmusicinthepark.org.

Eagle Extravaganza

Take the Plunge

Visit the Carolina Raptor Center for “Eagle Extravaganza on the Raptor Trail” on Saturday, July 5. Experience exciting activities for all ages, including eagle feeding, thrilling bird shows and special Keeper Chats. Dive into the world of eagles and discover what makes these apex predators so fascinating. Explore interactive stations and activities throughout the trail, with games, water play and creative fun for kids. This event promises to be a captivating experience, perfect for eagle enthusiasts and families alike.

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What better way is there to cool off than at Open Swim at the Quarry at Carrigan Farms – a deep, refreshing natural quarry in Mooresville. Pricing varies by day of the week with Tuesdays and Wednesdays being the most cost effective, and reservations are recommended. The quarry is perfect for kids and adults, complete with swimming, jumping off rocks, playing volleyball on the sand beach, fishing and lots of delicious farm-to-table food. Visit www.carriganfarms.com to make a reservation. The Quarry at Carrigan Farms is at 1213 Oak Ridge Farm Highway in Mooresville.

Fun & Trendy

Fashion

Open in 21714 Catawba Ave, Unit A-6 | Cornelius, NC 28031 Antiquity Sun-Tues 10-6 Wed-Sat 10-8 | ninasboutiquelkn

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

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CHANNEL MARKERS - live like a native

Chronicling

Cornelius

New museum brings town’s history to the public From its agricultural beginnings to its current day popularity as a lakeside town of more than 30,000, Cornelius has an interesting history. In an effort to preserve and share its rich history, plans are well underway for the creation of the Cornelius History Museum.

Named for Joseph Benjamin Cornelius, who financed the first big mill which led to Cornelius’ emergence as a mill town, it became a thriving textile community. Later, the role of Duke Power and the creation of Lake Norman led to further development of the area, generating greater infrastructure and economic growth.

At the helm of the museum project is David Hodson. He got involved about five years ago, when Mayor Woody Washam formed a task force to assemble community leaders focused on preserving Cornelius’ history. The task force evolved into a more formal organization, including a board of directors. Hodson is the board president.

David Hodson

A lifelong entrepreneur, Hodson has always been community minded, and credits his parents with instilling in him a strong a sense of community. Originally from southern Ohio, Dodson’s parents were involved in forming the historical society there. He’s lived in Cornelius for decades and met his wife here. She grew up in 18

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

by Allison Futterman images courtesy Cornelius History Museum

Cornelius and Dodson says she has a strong sense of the area’s history. She’s also lifelong friends with Mayor Washam.

The town purchased the Agricultural Building (or Ag Building, as it’s commonly known) on the grounds of what was originally Cornelius High School — now Cornelius Elementary School. Historical in its own right, the Ag Building was constructed in the 1930s and the curriculum provided agricultural education to students.

In order to meet the need for ADA guidelines, including an ADA compliant elevator and restrooms, there are plans to build an addition to the Ag Building. Working with the preservation committee of Mecklenburg County, Dodson explains that they won’t try to match the existing building. Instead, they will create something new with a different design for the addition, while preserving the original building’s historical integrity.

Slated to open next summer with a projected cost of approximately $2 million, the museum will be funded through grants and donations. There will be interactive exhibits, artifacts, personal histories and educational programs that highlight the history of Cornelius.

A couple of the objects that will be included are a cedar chest built many years ago by a Cornelius resident and a Bank of Cornelius safe a resident had stored in their garage.

To learn more about the museum, sign up for its monthly newsletter by visiting www.corneliushistorymuseum.org.

we’re just crazy about - CHANNEL MARKERS

PAPER SKYSCRAPER Rises in Davidson A Charlotte institution comes to Lake Norman One of Charlotte’s most beloved gift stores has a new home in Davidson. Paper Skyscraper is now at 610 Jetton Street in Davidson Commons, near Harris Teeter, Hop & Vine and Milkbread. “We’re super excited to be here and involved in the community,” says owner Bill Godwin.

If you’ve been to the flagship Paper Skyscraper in Dilworth, you’ll know why this store has a devout following and is destination-worthy. No matter how you feel when you pop in, you’ll always enjoy a chuckle and leave feeling better than when you arrived. Their mammoth selection includes everything you could imagine — art (some local), books, puzzles, toys, jewelry, socks, snacks, coffees and teas, bags, mugs and glassware, stationery, even bird seed.

The original store opened in 1989, followed by a second location in uptown Charlotte in 2023 and now here. Paper Skyscraper’s long-standing accolades, which continue, include “Charlotte’s Best Gift Store” in the Charlotte Observer, “Best Place to Buy a Present” in Creative Loafing, “Best Place for Stylish Gifts” and “Best of the Best Award for Local Gift Shop” (26 years in a row) in Charlotte Magazine. Other honors include Queen City Nerve’s “Best in the Nest Gift Shop” for the past six years, and third place for Yelp’s “best independent gift store in the nation (2024).”

Godwin, a Charlotte native, grew up going to the Dilworth Paper Skyscraper. After working in banking and helping to develop companies, he bought it from the founders six years ago.

by Karel Bond Lucander photography courtesy Paper Skyscraper

“This was an opportunity to preserve an institution in the Carolinas,” he says. “There’s not a day that goes by that customers don’t meet up with friends and laugh here.” The store’s moniker is a nod to architecture. “It was originally an architectural bookstore,” Godwin says.

“Before Amazon, it was hard to find good architectural and design books and they built the business from there.”

Today, with some 30,000-plus products in house, representing more than 80 area small businesses, you can find virtually anything for a birthday, housewarming, new baby, wedding/anniversary and all the holidays. (During winter holidays they’re open seven days a week, beginning December 1.) Brands include Queen City Crunch, Assouline and Chronicle Books, Voluspa, Blue Q, Swig, Thymes, LAFCO candles, Rifle Paper Co., Crane & Co. and many more.

“We have a gift for any situation, and we tailor the merchandise to our customers,” he says. “We have a lot of Davidson gear, coffee mugs, spa items, wine glasses, local treats and candles.” And thousands of greeting cards. Paper Skyscraper specializes in helping you choose the perfect gift or put together that special gift basket.

“Our goal is to delight the customer, continue to spread the joy of Paper Skyscraper and make our community better,” Godwin says.

Visit the store at 610 Jetton St., Suite 110, Davidson, or call 704.997.6164. Learn more at www.paperskyscraper.com or follow the store on Instagram and Facebook: @paperskyscrapergifts.

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GETTING TO KNOW YOU

‘Tom’s Woody Party’ Creating a community through love of cars

by Stella Mackler photographs courtesy Tom Cotter

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Cotter’s love for collectible cars and the racing industry runs deep.

“There’s motor oil in my veins.”

That’s how Tom Cotter, owner of The Depot at Gibson Mill, describes the origin of his love for automobiles.

“Everything I’ve ever done is somehow related to automobiles or racing,” Cotter says.

his garage. That called for a major celebration.

“I had Tom’s Woody Party,” Cotter says. “I thought maybe a couple other Woodies would show up. And a couple of Woodies did show up. Twenty-two years later I had to cut it off at 150 cars and people.

People would come from Virginia, New York, Connecticut, Detroit, Chicago, Florida, Los Angeles for a one-day party.”

The party met its end with the start of the pandemic, but the community that came from it remains strong. On the second Tuesday of

And Cotter has done (almost) everything. With 17 books, a YouTube series on Hagerty media with more than three million subscribers, and a collection of 18 cars to call his own, Cotter has found a community in cars and car aficionados in the Lake Norman area and beyond. He spoke to the power his collectibles have in building relationships.

“Suddenly the guy wants to talk to you as much as you want to talk to him,” Cotter says. “They invite you inside for a glass of iced tea.

And you talk and they say, ‘Hey, let me share what I have in the basement.’ And you become friends. So the car, you know, is an icebreaker.”

Cotter’s 1939 Ford Woody Wagon has broken a significant amount of that ice. The Woody was his first purchase.

“I always wanted to be a California surfer guy,” Cotter said.

“Growing up on the East Coast, that’s as close as I got.”

When he was 19, however, he sold it to a man in Puerto Rico, and that was the last he ever saw of it. Until Pat, his wife, got involved.

“We belong to the Woody Club, and every month you get a magazine,” Pat Cotter says. “One of the magazines that comes during the year is a directory of all people that have Woodies. I went to the page with Puerto Rico, because I knew that’s where the car landed. We spoke to the person. Tom did the negotiating, and a few years later, the car was put on a boat and sent to the United States.”

Twenty-six years after that first sale, Cotter had his first car back in

Cotter’s personalized race car.

every month, Cotter hosts “Cars and Coffee” at Gibson Mill.

“It’s for cars that are 50 years old and older,” he says. “Often when you go to a Cars and Coffee in Charlotte, you’re surrounded by brand-new Mustangs and brand-new Corvettes. Some poor guy with a 55 Chevy feels totally out of place. I put on a Cars and Coffee for that guy.”

As Cotter’s community has grown, so has his collection. He has 18 cars at the moment and is currently restoring a 1965 Lotus.

However, Cotter would be the first to note that he does not buy cars, he finds them. And this is not a one-and-done process.

“Sometimes it takes years to develop a relationship with the owner before they can trust you to be the next caretaker of their pride and joy,” he says.

What’s the “why” in all of this? The driving force (no pun intended)?

Well, as Cotter puts it: “It’s a bit of a love affair.” www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

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FEATURE SPONSORED BY - MAIN STREET BOOKS

Five Books to Savor Summer

by Adah Fitzgerald, co-owner of Main Street Books

The slower pace of summer is the ideal time to pick up a book. Whether you’re borrowing a classic from the library or choosing a new release from Main Street Books, reading isn’t an indulgence, it’s essential. Reading books has long been valued as therapeutic. Transporting readers into the lives and worlds of others builds empathy. Reflecting the lived experience of the reader provides validation. I’m sharing five new summer novels that my booksellers and I have read and highly recommend.

Park Avenue by Renee Ahdieh (Flatiron Books) for fans of Crazy Rich Asians

Phoenix Pencil Company by Allison King (William Morrow) - for fans of Midnight Library

Jia Song’s chance to earn junior partner in her law firm is at stake as she navigates the back-stabbing Park siblings who are suing their father over the assets of his billion-dollar Korean beauty empire.

As Jia navigates the globe-spanning lies, you will be carried away with this decadent, smart, sensitive novel from Charlotte’s own writing phenom.

Read this one by the pool and then savor it with your book club. One day, the program that college student Monica Tsai is helping to build connects her to a young woman, whose gift of a single pencil holds a surprising clue to her family’s hidden history in Shanghai. The heart of this story is in asking whose stories get told. There is so much magic in this story and in the reading of it.

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans (Crown) for fans of A Man Called Ove

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (Berkley) for fans of Barbara Kingsolver

Sometimes the best book recommendation is simply, “Trust me, you’ll love this.” Written entirely in letters penned to and from 73 year-old Sybil, her life in retirement from practicing law isn’t nearly as quiet or content as she’d like us to believe.

The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett (Ballantine Books) - for fans of Little Miss Sunshine On a whim, PJ hits the road on a cross-country road trip to visit his high school sweetheart at the Tender Hearts Retirement Community. With two recently-orphaned children, a cat who detects death, and his estranged, twenty-something daughter in a car “borrowed” from his ex-wife’s fiancée, PJ is 63 and his high school sweetheart has no idea he’s coming. What could go wrong?

FIND YOUR NEXT GREAT READ

Inspired by the real Kingdom of the Happy Land, a self-sustaining community of formerly enslaved men and women who were ruled by a king and queen in the North Carolina mountains, DolenPerkins shares this extraordinary story through the eyes of Nikki whose grandmother summons her to Asheville urgently, but mysteriously.

ABOUT MAIN STREET BOOKS Main Street Books is located in the heart of Davidson, North Carolina, just 20 miles north of Charlotte and across the green from Davidson College. We serve the four Lake Norman towns Davidson, Cornelius, Huntersville, and Mooresville. Situated in the heart of our college town, we take seriously our role in introducing new literature to our readers and hosting literary events and groups.

We are an independent, general interest bookstore with robust fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and children’s books collections. Main Street Books is co-owned by Adah Fitzgerald and Mary Barone.

Spread Love READ BOOKS

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126 S. MAIN ST. DAVIDSON, NC

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NAVIGATORS

Country music artist and local resident Ansel Brown

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

Lake Norman local makes country music return

by Bek Mitchell-Kidd

Brown performed recently at the annual Race City Festival in Mooresville.

Mooresville local Ansel Brown is returning to music with his new album, “Gravity,” which will be released this fall.

Brown’s music career took off in the mid-2000s, landing him the MusicRow Discovery Award and a spot on the CMA “Who’s New to Watch” list with the release of “You’re Just Smoke” and its breakout single “Mine’s Bigger.”

Just as his star began to rise, life interrupted: a battle with chronic A-Fib, a difficult divorce and the heartbreak of supporting a son through a deeply challenging season. Through it all, Brown found strength in faith, family and songwriting.

Brown was born in Greenville, S.C., but grew up in a Navy family with stops in Pearl Harbor, Charleston, Norfolk, Rhode Island, and northern Virginia.

“My connection to Mooresville really began with Richard’s Coffee Shop,” he says. “That place moved me deeply — not just as a musician, but as a person — and it played a big role in my decision to relocate both my life and my business here.”

Richard’s Coffee Shop — and the nonprofit Welcome Home Veterans Military Museum at Richard’s Coffee Shop — is sacred ground to Brown, he says.

“I’ve supported them over the years through performances, outreach and even rebranded their visual identity pro bono via my creative agency. But the real reward has been the relationships.” Brown also holds a minority interest in restaurants Juan Loco in Cornelius, and Havana 33 in Mooresville. In addition, he’s recently partnered with Hotshots Sports Bar & Grill in Mooresville.

“The new owner, Kellen Van Abel, is a U.S. veteran, and under his leadership, Hotshots has leaned into supporting causes that matter, especially veterans,” Brown says. “That aligns perfectly with my mission and longtime work with Welcome Home Veterans. Kellen

and his team are helping bring local music and community service together in a meaningful way. This partnership isn’t just business — it’s built on purpose.”

For the upcoming album release, Brown reunited with Cliff Downs, the producer who helped build his early sound; their renewed collaboration adds depth and perspective to his new body of work while staying true to Brown’s signature blue-collar sincerity. Brown’s band is a blend of Nashville pros and regional talent.

“While recording happens in Nashville, we rehearse right here in the Lake Norman area,” he says. “I love incorporating local players whenever possible — they bring heart and hometown grit to every show.”

Brown chose to record the first single (released last month) “The Whiskey Makes Her Miss Me,” “... because it’s real country storytelling — about how a heart never truly lets go,” he says. “It’s not just about drinking. It’s about remembering, about feeling, about still believing there’s a chance to be missed — even when the miles, or the mistakes, get in the way.”

This month, the second single “We Make America Run” releases, followed by the first EP “The Rise,” then the second EP “Falling Into Place” in the fall, and culminating in the full album release of “Gravity.” Brown also recently headlined the annual Race City Festival in Mooresville in May. “It marked my very first full band performance of the relaunch, and to experience that moment in my hometown, surrounded by friends, family and longtime supporters, was something I’ll never forget,” says Brown. “The energy and support from the local community have already made a major impact.” Next up for Brown is co-headlining the Fourth of July Bash for the city of Pittsburgh, PA. “It’s amazing to see how a spark lit here in Mooresville can ignite something on a national stage,” he says. www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

25

WEEKEND GETAWAY

Mountain Envy

Summertime in Sylva — where everyone belongs

Left, an evening view of downtown Sylva (courtesy Clay Townsend); right, Pinnacle Park (courtesy Nick Breedlove).

by Vanessa Infanzon

In less than three hours, you can be in Sylva, a mountain town with spunk – and cooler temperatures. This Jackson County destination features Hotel Sylva, a renovated motel lodge with spacious rooms and easy parking. Grab a cup of Bootleg Coffee from the hotel’s lobby and walk to dozens of art, antique and boutique shops in the downtown area. The bakeries and cafes along the way will keep you fueled with homemade chocolate, ice cream and pastries.

Annual events such as Concerts on the Creek — held weekly in Bridge Park from May through August — bring musicians to the banks of the Tuckasegee River. Bridge Park is also the hub for the Jackson County Farmers Market, featuring more than 35 vendors from April to October on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The market on Saturday continues through the winter, weather permitting. Couples, families and friends will find something to love in Sylva’s walkable downtown or in the county’s wilderness.

Art Lovers

WildKitchen Supply’s name might throw you, but don’t pass it by.

Local artists’ works such as crocheted pieces, glass creations, pottery and woodwork designs fill the store. Check out the vintage and thrift clothing in the back. The shop also serves as a refillery: purchase in bulk for soaps and other household items. Sign up for one of the cooking, foraging or gardening classes offered throughout the summer.

Drop into Snake Song, a floral design shop, for jewelry, dried flowers, hand forged knives, heirloom seeds and many other items you won’t find anywhere else. Mountain Laurel Shop’s owner builds the wood tables, benches and chairs throughout the store. A sweet surprise is the nostalgic candy in the back room.

On July 19, in the nearby town of Dillsboro, the Front Street Arts & Crafts Festival hosts 40 of the region’s artisans. Galleries, restaurants and shops are open.

Historians

The Lost Art of the Berlin Wall is an unexpected gem in downtown Sylva. Open now for just two years, the gallery displays salvaged pieces from the Berlin Wall, some with the original art intact. It’s an art and history lesson, taking you through the construction of the wall to its demolition in 1989. Chad Sovo, the museum’s curator and resident artist, will answer questions and walk visitors through the gallery.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

Whether you love cats or not, you will gain an appreciation for the art, books, memorabilia and mummified cats collected by Harold Walter Sims Jr., the man behind the American Museum of the House Cat; he passed in 2024. The admission fee for touring the 4,000-square-foot museum supports Catman 2, a no-kill cat shelter in Cullowhee, founded by Sims.

Foodies

There’s no shortage of places to eat, drink and snack in downtown Sylva. Grab delicious sweets from Baxley’s Chocolates or Cotton Leigh Bakery. Enjoy fresh bread, croissants or a Danish at Little Cove Bread Bakery before they sell out each day. Head to Blue Ridge Bootleg for coffee and its cool interior. Decked out in black, leather and wood, the name pays homage to the owners’ grandfathers, who were both bootleggers.

The Cut’s full menu and cocktail list, which includes CBD mocktails, boasts in-house syrups and homemade baked goods and dishes in an eclectic atmosphere. Live music and outdoor seating make it a perfect summertime escape. There’s no reason to go hungry in Sylva: Foragers on the Green, City Lights Café, Lucy in the Rye or Meatball Pizzeria will keep you fueled for hiking, shopping and cooling off on the water.

Outdoor Enthusiasts

A nature experience can be as extreme or as gentle as you want when you visit Sylva. The Tuckasegee River Greenway is an easy two-mile (out and back) paved path along the river. The Waterknob Trail and the Mountain to Sea Trail offer more challenging paths for hikers. At Pinnacle Park, visitors can hike the first part of the Bridge Loop on Fisher Creek following a Certified Forest Therapy Trail self-guided walk. Brochures at the trailhead highlight how forest therapy and its sensory invitations help calm the brain and make participants more aware of their natural surroundings. An abundance of small waterfalls along the creek makes the moderate, sometimes rocky and steep trail, worth the work. Anglers can sign up for guided fly-fishing tours through Tuckasegee Fly Shop or pick up gear and flies from more than 500 patterns.

Find more information about Sylva on the Jackson County Tourism Development Authority website at www.discoverjacksonnc.com/your-trip/towns/sylva.

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

27

GAME ON

A SUMMER Lake Norman HarborHippos make a splash in Old North State League

Home Run

by Bek Mitchell-Kidd photography by Lisa Crates

The Old North State League (ONSL) has a new team this season — the Lake Norman HarborHippos. ONSL is North Carolina’s wooden bat collegiate summer league, which has rapidly grown in popularity and is known for its competitive edge and community-driven spirit.

The introduction of the Lake Norman HarborHippos is a key part of the league’s strategy to connect more fans across the state with high-quality baseball.

“Building the Lake Norman HarborHippos has been a total passion project,” says Meagan Brady, HarborHippos director of marketing.

“None of the core staff had ever built a sports team or organization from scratch, and we’re learning every day. We are a small but mighty team, and incredibly proud of what we’ve been able to create in just a few short months.”

Serving as a platform for collegiate athletes to showcase their skills and develop into future stars, ONSL provides high-level competition while emphasizing sportsmanship and player growth.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

“After months of planning, everything became real the moment our players arrived,” says Mike Viruso, local resident and HarborHippos owner. “It was incredible to finally meet all the guys and see how quickly they connected as a team. You never quite know what to expect when you bring together 30-plus college athletes, but I couldn’t be happier with how it’s all come together.”

The HarborHippos’ roster features top-tier collegiate athletes from across the region and the world. Supported by an experienced coaching staff, led by head coach Joe Pearn, the players compete as a team and for individual advancement in their baseball careers.

“It’s been fun to see how players from all over the country, including Canada and Australia, bond so quickly,” says Pearn. “Summer baseball is about giving the players an opportunity to improve their skills and develop relationships on and off the field.” Lochlan Robbins, a Cornelius resident and William A. Hough High School graduate, agrees.

y a l P ! l l a B Upcoming Theme Nights:

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July 15

“Getting the chance to play summer ball isn’t just about the games, it’s a chance to get better, meet people, and open up doors for the future,” Robbins says. “You never know who’s watching or what playing on the team could lead to.”

Ladies Night @ The Park

Huntersville Athletic Park is home to the HarborHippos, which continues to transition into a premier baseball venue, with improved seating, a dedicated family zone and plans to modernize the restrooms and expand parking.

Cool Kids Clubhouse/ Strike Out Cancer (Ninja Nation Mobile Course opens at 6 p.m.)

Opening night was a success, with more than 500 people attending, and the games are proving to be a winning ongoing option for families looking for summer fun with themed nights, a rotating line-up of food trucks and craft beer, and of course, team mascot “Normie” the hippo.

“It has been so fun to see the excitement in the fans and the players at the games,” says owner Kris Viruso. “Everyone loves Normie and races to get pictures or dance with him. And we are so grateful for our partnerships with sponsors and local businesses.”

The team is also focused on youth outreach, hosting clinics and initiating a mentorship program aimed at inspiring young athletes while strengthening ties with local schools and youth organizations.

“It’s been a lot of sleepless nights, but hearing the crack of the bat and seeing kids’ faces light up when Normie appears make it all worth it,” says Brady. “We’re blessed and grateful to have this opportunity to build a new, family-centered tradition for the Lake Norman Community.”

Catch a game at Huntersville Athletic Park, 11720 Verhoeff Dr., Huntersville. For more information, visit www.harborhippos.com.

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Dwellings How We Live at the Lake

Photography courtesy Kimberly A. Casper, Eden Chase Designer Builds & Interiors

Walls of windows great visitors at the “Cliffside Clarity” house in Banner Elk.

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

31

DWELLINGS

Cliffside

Clarity

Modern, calming finishes and views galore are at the heart of this cliffside spa retreat.

A mountainside spa retreat

By Lori Helms Photography courtesy Kimberly A. Casper, Eden Chase Designer Builds & Interiors

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

“Cliffside Clarity” hidden gems include a 4-person sauna and a Himalayan salt cave.

“It has immense respiratory benefits, it’s really good for your breathing as well as your skin.”

Not to bring up a sore subject, but the topic of the COVID-19 pandemic came up in conversation recently. I was talking to Kimberly Casper, owner of Eden Chase Designer Builds & Interiors, about a stunning project she and her husband Jeffrey Casper completed earlier this year up in Banner Elk. In addition to her company’s several Lake Norman and greater Charlotte area projects, it’s just one of a lovely selection of mountain vacation homes in their portfolio, and she said those retreats came about as a result of the pandemic.

“People were traveling to the mountains to get out of the cities,” she says, and as a result, there was a surge in properties available through rental apps such as Air BnB. Wanting to seize on that opportunity but not wanting to design and build just another mountain cabin that was likely a carbon copy of the one next door to it, the Caspers decided to differentiate themselves by going the luxury route.

“There’s a niche there,” she says.

And that niche now includes “Cliffside Clarity” – the home she designed and her husband built to be a luxurious two bedroom, two bath spa retreat vacation rental on the Sugar Mountain Ski Resort in Banner Elk. It’s actually what Casper refers to as a “bonus house,”

as it sits directly next to the much larger “Apres Ski Haus” (built to accommodate 14 guests) to make the best use of the plot of land remaining when that home was completed in 2024.

But the geology and geography of the remaining land presented a bit of a problem. It was very rocky and predominantly cliffside, and she was told several times that there’s no way she could sit another house there. Her response to that set of problems was simple: “That sounds like a challenge – let’s do it,” she said at the time.

That’s precisely what they did, and indeed it was a challenge. Casper says they had to blast through a good deal of rock to achieve the design of a home that would be built on pillars and cantilevered off the side of the mountain. The result is a vacation retreat with absolutely stunning views of the surrounding mountains out the back of the house, including Grandfather Mountain to the south and Beech Mountain to the north.

“The biggest compliments we get are about the views,” she says. The views notwithstanding, it could be argued that the interior of the home, complete with amenities that you would typically only find www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

33

DWELLINGS

The clean, modern touches in the home’s kitchen and living spaces are just as beautiful as the breathtaking views.

in an upscale spa, is just as worthy of hefty praise. Casper says she wanted the overall feel to be very peaceful – a space to escape and just breathe. Coupled with the earthy, organic modern design vibe she achieved by incorporating a color palette of whites, creams, oatmeals and greens, she created a delightful retreat in what was originally planned to be a loft area.

Behind a paneled fluted wall is a hidden door that opens to a Himalayan salt cave, beyond which sits a sauna big enough for four people and finally a door to the rooftop hot tub. Most folks are quite familiar with the benefits of time in a sauna or a hot tub, but a salt cave?

“It has immense respiratory benefits, it’s really good for your breath34

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

ing as well as your skin,” says Casper. Built of pink Himalayan salt tiles that are backlit, the cave also has a machine that releases small saline capsules into the air while you sit in a zero-gravity chair.

“I’ve sat in there in the wintertime, and it really does help if you’re congested for any reason. It’s also just very relaxing and stress-relieving.” There is also the option of an on-call massage therapist to truly treat yourself to the full spa retreat feel. Casper says all the house’s amenities – breathtaking views, calming design aesthetic, luxury spa touches – came together just as she had originally envisioned it.

“It was my design from start to finish,” she says, “and my husband executed exactly what I wanted to do.”

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35

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

When Neighbors Join Forces Peninsula Community Foundation supports local charities

Peninsula Community Foundation members regular give donations to local nonprofits; left, members enjoy a “Havana Nights” fundraiser; below, recruiting more volunteers at a recent fair.

by Allie Spencer photographs courtesy Peninsula Community Foundation

Almost 25 years ago, a few friends were chatting on the golf course about how they could give back to the local community. That conversation, driven by neighborly goodwill, eventually led to the founding of the Peninsula Community Foundation (PCF), a non-profit which has since poured millions of dollars into vital charities locally and beyond.

The PCF’s mission is to increase awareness of the needs of the Lake Norman community and raise money to address food insecurity, bridge education gaps, boost health support and provide a lifeline to struggling families and seniors.

“We look for organizations that show clear, positive impact,” says Molly Stokas, Vice President of the PCF board. This year, their annual grants program distributed $250,000 to 18 local organizations like Little Smiles NC, which brings toys, tech and smiles to kids facing tough illnesses and hospitalization. Beyond financial support, the PCF also offers guidance to the charities they support.

“In recent years, we’ve become more strategic, with each board member acting as a hands-on liaison to local nonprofits. Not only are we cutting checks, but we’re also becoming personally involved with every core charity, actively listening and solving problems together,” says Stokas. She sees the impact of the PCF’s work firsthand as a liaison for the charity Alongside Families. “They partner with local churches to provide safe, loving homes for children impacted by their parents’ homelessness or hospitalization. It’s a much better alternative to the traditional foster care system.”

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

As the PCF continues to evolve alongside the ever-growing Lake Norman area, under the stewardship of board President George Searle, they are focused on rallying the next wave of changemakers.

“We want to welcome new generations of volunteers and donors to the PCF fold. We’re excited about the burst of ideas and energy that can be gained from young families and teens,” Stokas says. They recently held a volunteer fair to match community members with local charities. With more than 110 attendees, new connections were forged and attendees discovered how they can give back to their community.

The PCF will host its annual gala and largest fundraiser later this year on November 15, 2025. Embracing the disco era, the “Studio 54” themed event will include cocktails, dinner, entertainment, a live auction and plenty of sequins and jumpsuits. Last year the gala broke records, raising more than $250,000, and the organization hopes to build on that generosity this year.

For those interested in volunteering or donating, visit www. yourpcfgala.org to sign up for updates and connect with the PCF. There are opportunities to donate financially, offer your time, attend the fall gala or simply spread the word. The PCF operates with virtually no overhead, meaning every donation goes straight to local impact, proving that when neighbors join forces, even the greatest challenges blossom into opportunities for positive change.

‘Game of Throws’

Hard charger brings ultimate frisbee to town

MCINTOSH LAW FIRM’S YOUNG LEADERS

Above: Barber takes a breather after intercepting a throw during a game against University of Richmond.

Right: The team gathers for a group photo after competing in regionals for the first time in five years.

by Stella Mackler | photographs courtesy Virginia Barber

There’s a new team in town, and no, it’s not the local bowling league. Ultimate frisbee at Davidson College is soaring to new heights and the traditionally West Coast game of throws, if you will, is increasingly popular among students.

This is thanks in no small part to the college’s Seattle transplant Virginia Barber. The rising senior grew up playing ultimate frisbee in a community she described as “massive.”

“Coming to Davidson, I kind of realized that the community was very much lacking that in a way that I had never experienced before, or been conscious of,” Barber says. “No one knows what ultimate frisbee is. No one plays it there.”

There was an existing men’s team at Davidson during Barber’s freshman year, but no women’s or co-ed space.

“I ended up practicing with the boys,” Barber says. “It was a scary environment for a freshman girl going onto an all-male team. To be fair, I had better throws than the majority of them, but they’re all taller, faster and stronger than me.”

So, she took it upon herself, alongside two upperclassmen, to build that infrastructure from the ground up. They recruited freshmen, sophomores and former athletes and established PUFF (People’s Ultimate Frisbee Folk) as a force in the Southeast. In their first year playing, the team made it to the final game at regionals. After just a few months of practice, they’d made it as close as one point away from the national tournament.

“We ended up going to regionals for the first time in five years and we lost on universe point in the game to go to nationals, which is losing by one,” Barber says. “That was a huge achievement for our first time at regionals.”

This was not beginner’s luck. In their second year on the field, the team made it to the final game at regionals for a second time, and again, finished one point from nationals.

“We have really had enormous growth,” Barber says. “It’s just awesome to have a community of people who appreciate frisbee in a way that they kind of do in Seattle, even if it’s not on the same level.”

Barber is coming off a season as co-captain and has big plans for her final year.

“I’m excited to kind of shift gears a little bit to be more intentional about frisbee, because I truly believe it’s a lot more fun when you can be competitive.”

To do that, she’s been encouraging her teammates to keep a disc in hand this summer.

“We’ve been trying to get players to throw over the summer, to join local rec leagues and just buying in a little bit more so that we can be competitive and have success in the field.”

This team, and their star player, were born to fly. Just like their frisbees.

“Our goal going into next year is to win regionals, something we’ve been very close to for the past two years,” Barber says. “That is very achievable if we are intentional about it, I think we are capable of it.”

Editor’s Note: Writer Stella Mackler is also the Senior Editorial Advisor for The Davidsonian, Davidson College’s independent student newspaper.

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

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39

LIMITLESS - a moment in time

The Final Frontier . . ... and a final lesson from Mother

by Mickey Dunaway

And what is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered?

-The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

I will admit, I greatly dislike funerals and all the accoutrements that surround them.

Since I have recently acknowledged my 78th birthday back in December, I am elated to still be on the green side of the grass, thanks to the Almighty so that I can learn my new hobby of fly fishing for trout in North Carolina’s mountain streams.

Although I attended a few funerals over the years, and begged off going to more than I attended, there have been a few services that have stayed with me in a positive way.

Mr. W.S. VanLandingham was my principal in my first year of teaching. Mr. Van suddenly passed away early in my second year. He had no funeral or memorial or even words at the graveside. He was interred and the entire event lasted 15 minutes, total. Well done, Mr. Van. My wife’s Uncle Coley and Aunt Mary vacationed with their preacher and his wife every summer, and his service was a series of funny stories about their adventures. It seems Uncle Coley’s cussing like a sailor made no difference to the reverend and his wife. Nice touch, Rev. I have written about my father’s funeral in 1965 in these pages, and of the courage of his Black friend who came to pay respects. Daddy’s was a very traditional Southern Baptist funeral, and it is still in my psyche to this day. That is not what I remember most about my father. It was his gentle nature, and the fishing and hunting trips and visits to Brewton to see relatives that are at the forefront of my memory — not his passing and funeral.

My mother passed away in 2014, and the organization of the celebration of her life was totally different from my father’s. She had planned out every aspect of what my older brother and I were to do.

She had no church service, although she had been a faithful believer 40

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

all her 92 years. There was a brief goodbye at the funeral home with only family present and a graveside service after she was transported 175 miles to be buried by my father (which she also had arranged so that we knew what to do). The graveside service was again about 15 minutes.

Because she had made it very clear what she expected, anyone who knew my mother knew that we had better follow her directions — especially in these circumstances! What her planning did for our family was to allow us — to encourage us — to talk about the many good days of her life. And we did.

Bottomline ... my mother was a school teacher all her life and in her passing she was still teaching her family how to remember her.

That brings me to the objective for which this column was written.

DO WHAT MY MOTHER DID! If you are over 50, find a well-respected funeral home and let them know you want to plan your passing in such a way that you cause your closest relatives and friends the least amount of grief.

Recently, my wife, Sandy, and I having talked many times about the need to plan our passing, bit the proverbial bullet and sat down with a knowledgeable end-of-life consultant and planned for each of our lives individually. And we paid for all expenses before we left that day. We even got some points on our credit card!

At 78, there are many things to worry about. Will Russia start another war? Will there be a second pandemic? Will our 11-year-old Brittany, Boomer, outlive us? If not, do we get another dog? Will Auburn beat Alabama next year? You get the picture. By meeting with the end-of-life consultant, we have already controlled much of our future worrying by removing the biggest vexation from our future lives.

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LIMITLESS - learning

What Kind of Deed Can Go Undone?

How Real Estate is Transferred at Death What kind of deed can go undone? It sounds like the start of a riddle. As a probate attorney, I often spend time explaining this “riddle” to clients who have inherited their loved one’s real estate. The typical question is, “When will I get my deed for the property?” This is a perfectly normal question given the fact that ordinarily, when real estate changes hands, a deed — signed, notarized and recorded — is required. It’s the official legal document that effectively transfers ownership of the property from one person to another. However, when property changes ownership at death, North Carolina law provides a different approach.

Ideally, a person would have a Will that specifies who inherits the real estate. However, many people die having never made a Will, so the law of North Carolina determines who the “heirs at law” of the deceased person are. Either way, the title to the deceased person’s real estate will vest automatically, by operation of law, without the need for a formal deed.

If the owner dies without a Will, title vests in their heirs immediately at the moment of death. If the owner has a Will, once the Will has been probated by the court, owner-

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

ship of the real estate will then be inherited by the beneficiary of the real estate under the Will.

This “shortcut” can be both a blessing and a source of confusion. Heirs often expect to receive a deed to prove they own the inherited property. But in North Carolina, proof of ownership will be documented either by copy of the Will, or in cases where there is no Will, through an affidavit of heirship or an estate file documenting how the title passed.

In either case, the deed, the usual hallmark of a real estate transfer, can go undone.

Amy Shue Isaacs is an Estate Administration/Probate Attorney with The McIntosh Law Firm, P.C. Contact her at 704.892.1699 or at www. mcintoshlawfirm.com/ attorneys/amy-shue-isaacs/.

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www.A4Wealth.com Fee-based financial planning and investment advisory services are offered by A4 Wealth Advisors, LLC a Registered Investment Advisor an SEC investment advisor.

Insurance products and services are offered through A4 Insurance Solutions. A4 Wealth Advisors LLC and A4 Insurance Solutions are affiliated companies. www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

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Dine Out & Lake Norman’s Finest Restaurants, Pubs and Wine Bars

Wine Down

Happy Forth of July

from the Pellegrino’s Trattoria and staff!

We will be closed for vacation July 1st to the 15th.

Wednesday - Thursday from 10:00 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday from 10:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Saturday from 11:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

ORMAN CURRE EN NT AK

S ARD AW

BEST OF L

THANK YOU!

275 N Main St, Troutman, NC 28166

FEATURED ON

(704) 528-1204 2023

www.pellegrinostrattoria.com

It’s official! EP/C Chophouse - Eagles Nest is now open!

Come see us in Banner Elk for epic steaks, fine wine and an incredible dining experience!

Visit www.epicchophouse.com for Membership information.

wine time - DINE + WINE

Atlantic Taste,

Atlantic Feel Muscadets are perfect for seafood

“Sur Lie” – a favored approach to Muscadet.

by Trevor Burton photograph courtesy Trevor Burton

A crossword puzzle favorite is the question, “What is France’s longest river?” The answer is, “Loire.” That’s fine for filling out a puzzle but can lead to several wine dichotomies along the way. Although it’s lumped in with the lengthy (of course) Loire region, Muscadet deserves to be a wine region all by itself.

these four areas spans about 55 miles from the mouth of the Loire estuary to the western fringes of the rest of the Loire wine region.

The region’s vineyards are concentrated mostly to the south and east of Nantes and along the banks of the local rivers – the Loire and its tributaries. Again, Muscadet deserves to be a wine region all by itself.

Why? Centered around the western city of Nantes, it’s different than the rest of the Loire Valley wine regions. The most obvious difference is the grape used to produce the wines of the region — the strangely named Melon du Bourgogne. Melon de Bourgogne was introduced to the region in the early 18th century after a vicious winter killed many of the rest of Loire’s vines (around the same time the grape was expelled from its home in Burgundy). What the persnickety Dukes of Burgundy regarded as an over-productive variety of little viticultural interest, growers in the western Loire saw it as a cold-resistant answer to their climate troubles. Muscadet is the northernmost Atlantic wine region in France.

I have a quirk when it comes to Muscadet wines — actually, I have numerous quirks but I’m talking about Muscadet wines. I much prefer wines that are aged in contact with the dead yeast that’s left over from the fermentation process the wine went through. To glean as much flavor and character from the grape juice as possible, many Muscadet wines are left sur lie (“on the lees”) for a period of several weeks or even months. This extended contact with the dead yeast, the lees, imparts a richer, creamier mouth feel to the wines and contributes to the general flavor profile. Each of the Muscadet appellations is made in both standard and sur lie variants. My quirk and I like the sur lie version.

In the Old World, wine styles evolved along with local food, taking on characteristics that pair well with the only food, in the old days, that was available. All activities in Nantes and the area surrounding it revolve around the sea and its bounty. No surprise, then, that Muscadets are the perfect wine for seafood.

A decent Muscadet is light. The wine has subtle apple and citrus aromas, sometimes combined with gentle hints of pepper and even a slight salinity — that Atlantic taste and feel associated with the region’s’ maritime location. There’s also a certain underlying minerality, due to the chalky, limestone soils of the best of the regions’ vineyards.

There are four Muscadet appellations: Cotes de Grandlieu, Coteaux de la Loire, Muscadet itself and the most prolific (and consequently the most famous) Muscadet Sevre-et-Maine. The territory covered by

So, whether your goal is filling out a puzzle or tasting a glass of wine (I recommend the latter option), Muscadet and the Loire seem to fill the bill. Enjoy whatever option you choose. www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

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Summer Salad

DINE + WINE - tasty bits

by Kathy Dicken photography by Kathy Dicken

Instructions: Fill a large bowl with about 4 cups of warm water and stir in 1/4 cup salt until salt has completely dissolved. Add the chicken, submerge and brine for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Rinse off the brine and pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking.

Caprese Chicken Salad During the summer, I love to cook with veggies from my garden, especially my juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil. This Caprese Chicken Salad recipe adds chicken and Mozzarella balls to my produce to make the perfect summer meal. This warm, high-protein salad doesn’t take long to prep and cooks quickly. Grilled chicken certainly works for this salad, but if it’s too darn hot, try my Air-Fryer method. The chicken turns out extra juicy and tender every time!

Here’s the secret — simply brine your chicken before cooking, and it will keep your chicken nice and juicy. It’s easy! Fill a large bowl with warm water and stir in salt. Add the chicken, submerge and brine for 30 minutes at room temperature or several hours in the refrigerator. You will thank yourself later.

When you are ready to prepare your salad, you can cook your chicken in the air fryer in about 15 minutes. Slice your juicy chicken and add it to your summer salad, and dinner is served!

Servings: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 15 minute

Ingredients: Chicken 1.5 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (4 portions) 2 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar 1 Tbsp. olive oil 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. dried basil 1/2 tsp. dried oregano 1 tsp. sea salt 1/4 tsp. black pepper Salad 5 cups Romaine lettuce (chopped) 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved) 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella balls 1/4 cup fresh basil (cut into ribbons) For dressing: Drizzle with balsamic glaze and extra virgin olive oil to taste

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

Once you’re ready to cook the chicken, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, sea salt and black pepper to create the marinade.

Add the marinade and the chicken breasts to a zip-top bag and massage to evenly distribute the marinade. Set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes or in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours.

Cook the chicken breasts. If using your air fryer, place the chicken in a single layer in the basket. Air fry until golden. See my cooking time chart below to estimate cooking time, or use a meat thermometer and cook until the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain.

In a large salad bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes and mozzarella balls, and top with sliced chicken. Sprinkle the salad with basil leaves and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.

Enjoy!

Notes: • Air Frying Times by Chicken Breast Size Small (5-7 oz.) 7-10 minutes Medium (8-10 oz.) 10-12 minutes Large (11-12 oz.) 12-16 minutes • Balsamic glaze can be found in the grocery store on the same aisle as vinegar.

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.

Living Well Your local resource for health and wellness services near you Audiology

PHC – Lake Norman Ears, Nose & Throat Megan Mathis-Webb, AuD Susie Riggs, AuD Caroline Millsaps, AuD 140 Gateway Blvd.

Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638

Cardiology

PHC – Heart & Vascular Jips Zachariah, MD Naveed Rajper, MD

359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829

Dermatology

PHC – Mooresville Dermatology Center Naomi Simon, MD Kristin Prochaska, PA-C Gina Noble, PA-C Julia Parsons, PA-C Susan Stevens, RN, BSN

128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1827 PHC- Lake Norman Dermatology Joel Sugarman, MD FAAD Allison Hanley, PA-C Melissa Moser, PA-C Betsy Benton, PA-C 140 Leaning Oak Drive, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117 704-658-9730

PHC – Wolfe Dermatology Steven F. Wolfe, MD Molly Small, PA-C

114 Gateway Blvd., Unit D Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-663-2085

Riva Dermatology “Imagine your skin at its Best!”

General Dermatology for the Family, Botox, Fillers, Laser/IPL & more

Kerry Shafran, MD, FAAD Lindsay Jayson, MPAS, PA-C Erin Dice, MPAS, PA-C Ashley Noone, MPAP, PA-C Nikki Leahy, MSBS, PA-C Mari Klos, CMA, LME

704-896-8837 Cornelius, Mooresville, Denver www.Rivaderm.com

Ears, Nose and Throat

PHC – Lake Norman Ears, Nose, & Throat Keith Meetze, MD Thomas Warren, MD Herb Wettreich, MD Fred New, Jr., ANP 140 Gateway Blvd.

Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638

Endocrinology PHC- Endocrinology Elaine Sunderlin, MD Emylee Brown, PA-C

Family Medicine

PHC – Nabors Family Medicine Emily Nabors, MD

142 Professional Park Drive Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-696-2083

PHC – Lake Norman Family Medicine Timothy A. Barker, MD Bruce L. Seaton, DO Amanda H. Bailey, DO Kyle Babinski, DO Bilal Khan, DO Sherard Spangler, PA 357 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-7328

PHC – Sailview Family Medicine Tiana Losinski, MD Alexander Watson, DNP

206 Joe V. Knox Ave. Suite J Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-360-4801

PHC – Fairview Family Medicine Golnar Lashgari, MD Erica Vollano, FNP-BC

146 Medical Park Road, Suite 210 Mooresville, NC 28117 •704-235-0300

PHC - Troutman Family Medicine Amrish C. Patel, MD Janeal Bowers, FNP Kimberly Whiton, FNP Jeanne Pierce, PA-C 154 S Main Troutman, NC 28166 • 704-528-9903

Gastroenterology PHC – Gastroenterology Brandon Marion, MD Aerielle Sibert, PA-C

359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-878-2021

PHC –Comprehensive Digestive Care Center Vivek Trivedi, MD Venu Gangireddy, MD Tiedre Palmer, FNP-C

359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-878-2021

PHC- Gastroenterology Laila Menon, MD Gabrielle Miller, PA-C

170 Medical Park Road, Floor 3 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506

Internal Medicine

PHC – Fox Internal Medicine Jessica Fox, DO Stephanie Michel, PA-C

435 East Statesville Avenue Mooresville, NC 28115 • 704-663-5056

Orthopaedic Surgery

PHC – Internal Medicine & Weight Management Manish G. Patel, MD Julie Abney, PA Andrea Brock, PA-C

128 Medical Park Road, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-658-1001

PHC – Lake Norman Internal Medicine John C. Gatlin, MD Swathi Talla, MD 548 Williamson Road, Suite 6 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-660-5520

Mental Health Services PHC-Mastor Mental Health Jason E. Mastor, MD Kristin C. Brown, PA-C Megan I. Flott, PA-C Diana J. Remenar, PA-C

206 Joe V. Knox Ave. Suite F Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-662-6500

PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint Brett L. Feldman, MD Alex Seldomridge III, MD Travis Eason, MD Julie Glener, MD Kim Lefreniere, PA-C

359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829

Orthopedic Surgery – Spine PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint Alex Seldomridge, III, MD

359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1838

Pain Managment

PHC – Pain & Spine Center Harsh Govil, MD, MPH Nathan Barkley, FNP-C Samuel Sackenheim, NP-C April Hatfield, FNP-C Gracie Kern, PA-C

359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829

Neurology

PHC – Neurology & Sleep Medicine Dharmen S. Shah, MD

Physical Medicine & Rehab

PHC – Lake Norman Neurology Andrew J. Braunstein, DO Ryan Conrad, MD Craig D. DuBois, MD Roderick Elias, MD

PULMONOLOGY

359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-873-1100

124 Professional Park Dr, Ste A Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-662-3077

PHC - Spine & Sports Medicine John Lesher, MD, MPH 170 Medical Park Road, Suite 302 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506 PHC –Pulmonology Enrique Ordaz MD Jose Perez MD Ahmed Elnaggar, MD Vishal Patel, MD

PHC – Lake Norman Neurology Andrew J. Braunstein, DO Ryan Conrad, MD Craig D. DuBois, MD Roderick Elias, MD

170 Medical Park Road, Suite 201, Mooresville NC 28117 • 704-838-8240

Obstetrics/Gynecology

128 Medical Park Road, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-658-1001

9735 Kincey Avenue, Ste 203 Huntersville, NC 28078 • 704-766-9050

PHC – Lake Norman OB/GYN James Al-Hussaini, MD Laura Arigo, MD Grant Miller, MD James Wilson, MD Nicole S. Wellbaum, MD NailaRashida Frye, MD Krisandra Edwards, FNP-C Alyssa Clay, DNP, FNP-C

Rheumatology

PHC – Rheumatology Sean M. Fahey, MD Dijana Christianson, DO Janice Clayton, FNP-C

131 Medical Park Road, Suite 102 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-663-1282

Oncology

Southern Oncology Specialists William Mitchell, MD Poras Patel, MD

46 Medical Park Rd, Suite 212 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-659-7850

170 Medical Park Road, Floor 3 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506 www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

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LNB AWARD WINNER – Lancaster’s BBQ

T ES B S D

ER

R

D

A

by Lori Helms photography courtesy Lancaster’s BBQ

RE

Lancaster’s BBQ

LA K E

MAN ’S OR N

SC

H OICE A

W

A

The eclectic interior of Lancaster’s BBQ in Mooresville, including the famous bus where kids (of all ages) can enjoy their meals.

With all the barbecue places at our fingertips around the Lake Norman area, why is it that Lancaster’s BBQ in Mooresville has been a multiple-year winner of our Lake Norman’s Best Readers Choice Awards? Owner Jeff Lancaster thinks he has the answer, and it’s a multi-generational recipe: one part customer loyalty, one part exceptional and loyal employees and a dash of eastern-style N.C. barbecue with that vinegar kick.

In 2006, owners Jeff and Terry Lancaster added a Huntersville location in the Long Creek area on Beatties Ford Road, occupying the former historic Puckett’s Gas Station & General Store. The Mooresville location is also home to the Hawg Trawgh, a friendly bar and covered patio for parties.

It’s a recipe that’s been perfected over the nearly 40 years that Lancaster’s BBQ has been in business. It’s been family owned and operated since its humble beginnings in 1986 in a former gas station.

It quickly developed a reputation for a family-fun atmosphere, professional service, lots of racing memorabilia and melt-in-your-mouth barbecue, according to the restaurant’s website. After moving to a larger location, Lancaster’s completed a major addition to the place in 1998 that included its famous bus.

But its the customers who are at the core of Lancaster’s BBQ’s success. Many of its regular patrons once ate on the bus, and have since brought their own children and grandchildren to the restaurant to experience the same mealtime fun.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025

Take the Lancaster’s BBQ bus for a spin at 515 Rinehardt Road in Mooresville and view the menu at www.lancastersbbqmooresville.com.

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2025

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VENETIAN PRINCESS PIROUETTE

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2025