Lake Norman CURRENTS February 2025

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Wistful Thoughts of Winter

As I’m writing this, there is still a treacherous albeit thin layer of ice on my driveway and deck from the “Blizzard of 2025” that was anything but, very early in January. Not much of the wonderful, white fluffy stuff fell — maybe an inch or so, then just ice coating the trees and landscape beautifully but refusing to yield to the sun thanks to the several days of frigid cold that followed.

After more than 20 years here in the Lake Norman area, you’d think I’d get used to the hysteria that surrounds the possible arrival of snow and the ultimate letdown of that prediction coming up well short. Maybe it’s because when my husband, my seven-year-old son and I stepped off the plane from San Diego the day we moved here – Jan. 2, 2002 – it was snowing.

The next morning was beautiful, and as a child who grew up in New England, I was so excited to see the accumulated four inches or so of snow and go check out our new home in Huntersville. And what I saw was fantastic. I think every kid in the neighborhood – and at the time, I believe they were ALL boys between the ages of six and eight (I think it was a requirement in the HOA bylaws) – was sledding down our steep front lawn and spilling out into the street below.

I think of that day often, especially when winter rolls around. We downsized a few years ago and live on the other side of the lake now, and that seven-year-old we uprooted from southern California and dragged to the south is now a father who sent me pictures of this year’s early January snow day, enjoying it with his wife and daughter.

Winter will always hold a special place in my heart, whether I’m in the present of my life in North Carolina or in the Vermont of my past. I will always get excited at the prospect of snow, and I will always hope against hope that the southern climate won’t defeat that prospect.

I hope you find ways to enjoy your winter here around Lake Norman, even when the weather doesn’t cooperate with our dreams of snowflakes, snow days and spins on a disc down a snow-covered hill.

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“Lake Norman’s Best”

Fifteen years ago, CURRENTS created Lake Norman’s first and only Best of Lake Norman contest. A year later, other publications followed suit and many of our local businesses got lost in the confusion of having too many “Best of” contests! To cut down on that confusion, CURRENTS changed the name of our contest to Lake Norman’s Best Awards and we’re asking you, our readers, to nominate and vote for your favorite business in a variety of categories. We’ve also decided to start our contest early this year and give you plenty of time to get your nominations in!

1. Go to our website LNCurrents.com and nominate your favorites from our list of categories.

Nominations will begin on February 1 and end on February 28.

Nominees will be listed on the website and voting will begin on March 1, concluding on March 30.

The top five nominees in each category will be announced in our April issue.

Winners will be announced at a special Awards Gala in June at The Cain Center in Cornelius.

Each winner will be showcased in a very special edition of CURRENTS called Lake Norman’s Best!

And as an added incentive to encourage you to vote, CURRENTS will conduct monthly drawings for all those who nominate and vote. Five lucky readers will win a $100 gift card to use at their favorite local business!

Good Athlete, Good Cause, Good Music

The latest from around Lake Norman

On Your Feet!

82-year-old Ted Eisenstat and 11-yearold Logan Harrington were the oldest and youngest contestants.

Logan Harrington on his winning run

Logan Harrington, an 11-year-old from Davidson, became the youngest competitor to win the Open Division of the annual Lake Norman New Year’s Day Barefoot Challenge at Lake Norman Marina in Sherrills Ford. Harrington won the Men’s Division last year, requiring him to compete this year in the Open Division which consisted of the top contestants regardless of age or sex.

It was Harrington’s long, five-minute time coupled with 125 points for his “tumbleturn” start and tricks that gave him the lead with 427 points. In his second round, he boosted his score to 466 points.

Mark Kale, owner of Lake Norman Marina, pledged $1 per point earned by all the contestants to be donated to charities serving those still suffering in western North Carolina due to Hurricane Helene’s devastation in September 2024. Total points earned plus a $120 cash donation yielded $2,461 for the charities.

Held annually on New Year’s Day, 17 contestants from ages 6 to 82 came from New Jersey, Indiana, Virginia, and North and South Carolina to compete in the 47th year of this unique tournament.

Donate to a ‘Good’ Cause

Furnish For Good volunteer and Mooresville resident Donna Werner will host a “Stuff the Truck” event on Saturday, Feb.

8, from noon to 2 p.m., during which donations will be accepted to further the mission of the nonprofit agency. Furnish For Good connects “well-loved” home furnishings with underserved communities through an experience of empowerment. Rather than simply donating the items, Furnish For Good curates and showcases them so that recipients receive more than home furnishings – they receive self-respect and dignity.

Items that will be accepted include furniture, twin and queen bedding, art, décor, towels, lamps, kitchen linens, dishware, placemats, glasses, baskets, utensils and small games. Items must be in good condition (free of rips, tears, pet hair, stains or smoke damage). “Stuff the Truck” will be held at 187 Castaway Trail in Mooresville. For more information on items accepted, visit www.furnishforgood.org.

Chamber Music for All

On Sunday, Feb. 16, at 3 p.m., Music at St. Alban’s welcomes Chamber Music for All, a nonprofit organization featuring chamber music performances by musicians of the Charlotte Symphony Chamber Music for All provides quality repertoire performed at the highest level, presented in an accessible form while creating a true sense of community.

The performance will be of Mozart’s “Sinfonia Concertante” arranged for sextet of violins, violas and cellos. The concert will be preceded by a young artists’ performance at 2:20 p.m. For information about viewing options and tickets, visit Music at St. Alban’s website at www.musicatstalbansdavidson.org.

Photos Courtesy Lake Norman Marina
Chamber Music for All comes to Davidson.

Gifts Made With Love

1. Tourmaline Necklace - $148
2. Pink Opal Earrings - $128 3. Champagne Love Soap - $18
4. Kent Stetson Love Crossbody - $208
5. Tourmaline Bracelet - $128
6. Ezra Table Lamp - $1050
7. Edison Pearl Earrings - $178

It’s ‘A Little Bougie’

Baby boutique in Denver opens

There’s a new children’s boutique in Denver, Plums & Pumpkins, which carries premium brands for babies, children and moms. The boutique, which opened last fall, is filled with ethically sourced clothing and toys, custom-made Minky blankets and items perfect for gifting. The adorable space has a European vibe, decorated in soothing pastels, wood accents and fun light fixtures.

“If I’m going to do something, it’s going to be a little bougie,” says owner Shalyn Brooks. “We deserve to have nice things here in Denver, too!”

Brooks, a Denver resident for 10 years, originally sought to open a children’s boutique before COVID-19 pandemic, but her plans got delayed when it hit. She pivoted and started to handmake “Minky” blankets after she created one for her son who was dealing with anxiety issues at the time.

“I didn’t know what the benefits would be until I started making them and then everyone wanted them. It imploded into a blanket business which has been so rewarding,” she says.

After handmaking and selling the Minky blankets at the Southern Christmas Show and at Main Street Antiques in Mooresville, last year she came across an opportunity to rent a space of her own in Denver. She decided to merge her two ideas — a children’s boutique that would also carry custom-made Minky blankets for babies and children — and Plums & Pumpkins was born.

Plums & Pumpkins currently carries clothing in sizes newborn to 24 months, toys, books and bedding, as well as products for bath, eating, travel and items for moms. Customers may be familiar with brands like Cuddle & Kind, Gunamuna, Gathre, Lou Lou & Company, Rylee and Cru and Quincy Mae. In addition, the velvety

Boutique owner Shalyn Brooks is the brilliance behind the new Plums & Pumpkins in Denver.

soft Minky blankets are available in various styles and sizes.

Prior to launching her blanket business, Brooks was focused on raising her children (she has two children, five stepchildren and five grandchildren). She is excited to be building her career now in her forties and hopes other moms see that, “whether you are 25 or 45, it’s never too late.”

Brooks is hoping to eventually grow and expand the business, and she would love for Plums & Pumpkins to become a gathering place for women in the community for events, networking, story time and classes.

“I enjoy when I have four or five women in the store and they’re from the same town and they make a connection,” she says. For now, she is relishing the response she’s had from the Denver community.

“Everyone who has come in wants the store to succeed. I couldn’t do it without loyal customers and I’m so thankful for that,” she says.

Visit Plums & Pumpkins at 3140 N.C. Highway 16, #103, in Denver. The shop is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more by following them on Instagram @ plumsandpumpkins and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/plumsandpumpkins/.

Plums & Pumpkins caters to everything whimsical for moms and their young children.

DISABILITY INCOME INSURANCE » Protecting LKN Business Owners with

WHAT IS DISABILITY INCOME INSURANCE?

Disability Income (DI) Insurance protects loss of income if you are out of work due to a disability. This is 24/7 worldwide protection.

WHAT ABOUT WORKERS COMPENSATION?

Many small business owners “exclude” themselves from WC. A DI policy would be in your personal name and give you coverage on and off the job. Losing your income could be detrimental to your business’ ability to function.

WHAT WOULD IT COVER?

DI policies typically cover about 60% of your salary and the policy will integrate with Social Security. The percentage changes based on your employment class and the amount of income you have to insure. 60% of your salary is a lot more than what most people have who are not covered – 0%.

• If the premium is paid by the employer, the premium is tax deductible

• If paid by the individual, once eligible, the benefit would be tax free

WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS?

There are many ways to customize your coverage and see what is most important to you. There are endorsements that can be added to the coverage so it can grow along with you and your business. Examples of added coverages:

• Cost of living/inflation increases

• Business overhead expenses: Reimbursement of costs for normal business operations

• Guaranteed insurability: Allows you to increase the benefit as your income increases without showing proof of medical insurability

• Own occupation: Lengthens the typical definition of disability to center around what you have been trained for, not based on how you can be retrained in a different field

• Policy Coordination: You can coordinate an individual plan and an employer sponsored plan if needed

Gift Giving

Made Easy

For Valentine’s Day, Lake Norman shops have you covered

For the faint of heart (yes, pun totally intended), the thought of gift-giving for Valentine’s Day can sometimes be anything but a joyous shopping adventure. Let’s face it, some people just have the “gift” of being able to find the perfect gift to celebrate on Feb. 14 the love shared with another – they know just the right way to show that special someone the depth of their affection and respect.

Then, there are us mere mortals who lack the gift-giving gene. Our first thought usually goes straight to trying to remember what gift was given the previous Valentine’s Day (we likely blocked it out due to Purchasing Trauma Syndrome), and knowing what we had to go through to simply come up with that, how on earth are we going to top it this year?

That’s why we reached out to a few of our local businesses and boutiques – specifically, those that carry a treasure trove of fine jewelry, fashion accessories and imaginative gifts.

Christopher DiPietro, Store Manager at Fink’s Jewelers in Birkdale Village, has extensive knowledge and sage advice he can pass on to us shopping-challenged folks. Since 1930, family-owned Fink’s Jewelers has offered the finest in engagement and bridal rings, designer jewelry and watches, bringing with those offerings the highest commitment to quality and customer service. From the expert jewelry and watch repair they provide, to the custom designer on site to help guide their clients in

creating the perfect, personalized gift from the heart, DiPietro can throw a lifeline to those of us struggling with finding that knock-out gift.

“The Roberto Coin Cialoma Diamond Flower Necklace is a beautiful gift idea for Valentine’s Day,” DiPietro says about this piece that includes a “hidden” ruby on the backside of the pendant. “This pendant, crafted in Italy, features 18k yellow gold, with diamonds centered among the petals on the pendant. The signature ruby is found as a coin of the designer — wearing a ruby against the skin promotes long life, happiness and health as a special and secret gift to the wearer.”

What is definitely not a secret, is that CoCo Couture in Cornelius is known for its high-end women’s fashion with an emphasis on elegance and sophistication. The boutique owner, Candace Bongiovanni, has curated a collection of impeccable designs and pieces ranging from clothing to shoes to accessories, meaning your shopping options for your Valentine’s Day sweetheart are virtually endless. That includes the finishing touch to an outfit offered by this beautiful bracelet.

“The Cannes Cuff in iridescent peony pink by Julie Vos features sparkling rose-cut end caps

accented with pear shape gemstones and freshwater pearls on a 24k gold plated cuff,” says Bongiovanni. Whether paired with a crisp white shirt

This pendant from Fink’s Jewelers in Huntersville has a hidden ruby surprise.

or an elegant evening dress, this bracelet or any of CoCo Couture’s other pieces would make that special someone’s heart flutter.

Oh, and speaking of hearts, here’s a fun take on the gift of chocolate from the owner of Juelerye Artisan Gallery & Gifts in Mooresville. Jacque Bassett’s shop on downtown Mooresville’s Main Street is the home of a beautiful collection of hand-crafted jewelry, fine gifts and art, all made in North America. One of those gifts comes from a well-known chocolatier and is perfect for the holiday made to celebrate affairs of the heart.

“This Valentine’s Day, we’ve got you covered,” Bassett says about this colorful collection. “Whether it’s chocolate, art or both, each piece is lovingly crafted by hand to make your heart smile.” The Chocolate Rainbow Hearts from John & Kira’s Chocolates are beautifully colored, with each shade representing a different flavor. From the champagne ganache in light blue to the dark blue heart’s crispy almond and hazelnut praline flavor, there is something to fit every sweetheart’s sweet tooth.

Indulging that special someone’s sweet tooth is not the only way to show them you care. I have it on good authority that a full-bodied glass of red wine pairs quite well with chocolate. So, if you want to double down on your Valentine’s Day gift, Stephanie Hathaway, owner of Southern Notions in Mooresville, has a great recommendation. Her shop is known not just for its thoughtful interior decorating services but also its fantastic selection of home décor, furniture and gifts.

Davidson Horticultural Symposium

us as we discover innovative garden designs, knockout native plants, and beautiful recycled landscapes. This inspiring all-day event at Davidson College is the perfect start to Spring.

“Spoil your wine lover this Valentine’s Day with a bottle of their favorite vino and our stemless aerating wine glasses,” says Hathaway. Not only is that a delicious idea, but it’s also a visual treat.

Visual treats are a specialty at Lilly & Grace, located at the Langtree mixed-use development in Mooresville. In addition to custom creations and interior renovation services, the shop offers a wide range of furniture, accessories, light fixtures, fabrics and gifts, such as this recommendation from owner Robyn Ford and her daughter, Madi Ford Stone.

“Faux florals are a house favorite of Lilly & Grace as they continue to ‘bloom’ as your love does,” they say. “They always make a statement and are a timeless décor piece to add to any space.”

There is something to be found at all our Lake Norman area gift shops, boutiques, jewelry stores and galleries. I’ve always believed in strongly supporting our local businesses that make our region a special place to live, work and play. I hope you do, too. Happy hunting!

Fink’s Jewelers is at 16745 Birkdale Commons Parkway in Huntersville. Call them at 704.927.4888 or visit www.finks.com. Visit CoCo Couture in Cornelius at 19818 N. Cove Road, call 704.896.8044 or see all the boutique’s offerings at www.theCoCoCouture.com. Find chocolates and more at Juelerye Artisan Gallery & Gifts at 112 S. Main Street in Mooresville or visit them at www.juelerye.com. Southern Notions is at 152 N. Main Street in Mooresville. You can learn more on the shop’s Instagram and Facebook pages. Visit Lilly & Grace at 138 Village View Dr., Suite 104, Mooresville, or to learn more call 980.447.9930 or visit www.lillyandgrace.com.

design

Designing with Love: Intentional Design for Everyday Living

Creating a home that feels like a love letter to its owners is no small feat, but it’s a hallmark of Lori Savio’s approach to interior design. As the creative mind behind Home, Heart & Soul, Lori believes design is more than just making a space look beautiful—it’s about creating a thoughtful space where life unfolds seamlessly. Lori begins every project with a collaborative, in-depth conversation. “At the heart of every project is your story,” she explains. “Intentional design starts with understanding how you need the room to function, what inspires you, and how we can make your space feel more personal.”

Then, she brings these valuable insights to life through purposeful choices: carefully curated color palettes that evoke emotion, layouts that maximize flow and function, and versatile furniture that stands the test of time. Whether it’s a guest bedroom for family visits, a kitchen that balances connection and culinary efficiency, or a retreat for relaxation, every detail is customized to support your lifestyle.

Another hallmark of Lori’s work is her collaboration with local artists. Bespoke elements like custom murals or one-of-a-kind artwork add depth and individuality to every design. “The romance is in the details,” Lori says. “It’s the feeling you get when you walk into a space that truly represents who you are.

Through her genuine passion for intentional design, Lori can help you live comfortably and authentically in spaces you love. Have a design project in mind? Let’s start with a discovery call or an in-person appointment in my design center. You deserve to make lasting memories in a beautiful home that’s a unique extension of your heart and soul.

20901 Catawba Ave. 704-458-6464

Lori@homeheartandsoul.com

Dwellings

How We Live at the Lake

Some pops of bright color are a great way to fight back against the winter blahs.

Baby,

It’s Cold Outside!

Decorating ideas to keep the winter ‘blahs’ away

Molloy recommends something as simple as layering different textures - maybe in your pillows or throws - to create a warm, comfortable vibe.

We’re in the thick of winter this month, and for better or worse, we will likely be spending most of our time indoors surrounded by the same four walls for a little while longer. As comfortable and inviting as we’ve all tried to make our homes, it’s easy to start feeling a little bit of cabin –or maybe “décor” – fever when our view inside never changes.

So how do we avoid falling into the winter blahs? We reached out to Lake Norman-area interior design expert Misty Molloy, founder and principal designer at CoCreative Interiors, for some ideas on how to make winter work in your favor and find ways to change things up a bit before you go stir crazy. She uses as a reference point a recent design project — a new build for a family of four wanting a relaxed home, using bold color and their unique pieces to pull in their personalities.

“From original artwork by artist Cathy Lancaster that nods to their roots in Chicago to playful patterns and a one-of-a-kind table built by an N.C. artisan, their story seeps into each space,” Molloy says. “Though big on impact, the rooms are kid- and puppy-friendly, meant for living and not just looking.”

With that as a backdrop, here are some of Molloy’s ideas to fight those cold-weather blues:

Layering Textures

Winter is the perfect time to layer in textures that bring warmth and coziness to your space. In the living room from this project, you’ll notice a mix of materials: the natural grass cloth console table, plush upholstery and chunky knit pillows all work together to create a comfortable vibe.

Seasonal Color Refresh

One of the easiest ways to fight winter blahs is by infusing your space with color. In this living room, vibrant blue, cheerful pink and warm yellow paired with playful patterns keep the room lively and warm, even during the grayest days.

Create a Cozy Glow

Lighting is everything during the colder months. The dual lamps in this space create a soft, diffused light that adds to the cozy atmosphere. Pairing overhead lighting with table lamps ensures a room feels layered and inviting.

Focus on the Fireplace

Your fireplace can become the ultimate winter focal point. Here, the fireplace is flanked by built-in benches that serve as cozy nooks, perfect for curling up with a good book or a warm cup of tea.

Bring in Nature

Nature-inspired elements can bring life to your interiors during winter. In this design, fresh greenery and florals on the coffee table add a touch of vitality that contrasts beautifully with the crisp blues and whites in the room.

Rearrange the Furniture

Sometimes, a small shift in your layout can make all the difference. In this space, the central console table anchors the room and creates symmetry, making the living area feel balanced and refreshed.

Learn about what else interior designer Misty Molloy can recommend for your home by visiting CoCreative Interiors at www.cocreativeinteriors.com, or contact her at misty@cocreativeinteriors.com or 704.218.9197. www.LNCurrents.com

Interior designer Misty Molloy of CoCreative Interiors employs the use of different textures, playful colors and soft lighting to create cozy and uplifting spaces during winter’s sometimes dreary days.
Beth Preston, Realtor®

If you are searching for a medical professional to assist each member of your household in maintaining optimal health, learn more about the Lake Norman area’s premier medical professionals on the following pages.

Michael Foran, DMD Michael Coleman, DDS

CAROLINA ORAL & FACIAL SURGERY

Founded in 1985, Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery focuses on dental alveolar surgery, such as tooth extraction and dental implant placement, as well as bone grafting, pathology and dental infection services, and in-office anesthesia and sedation. Dr. Michael Coleman and Dr. Michael Foran stay abreast of the latest in technique and technology, which has proven to be paramount to the practice’s success.

“Our practice is mainly an office-based oral surgery practice. We specialize in surgical procedures consisting of extraction of wisdom teeth and other non-restorable teeth, bone grafting, placement of dental implants, biopsies and management of pathology and surgical intervention of oral and facial infections,” explains Dr. Foran, an Army veteran.“We have extensive training and experience in in-office sedation to provide comfort to our patients.”

Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery is one of the first practices in the area to implement CTguided implant procedures. Dr. Foran says CTguided surgery allows bone grafting and dental implant placement to be more precise. “It has become much more common in my practice, and it helps me serve our patients better,” he explains, adding that the practice also has privileges at the local Novant hospitals for more complicated procedures that require a hospital setting, such as trauma and facial fractures, as well as orthognathic surgery.

Regardless of the complexity of the procedure, the goal of Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery is to always provide the most up-todate oral and maxillofacial surgical care in a warm, professional and caring environment, personalized to meet an individual patient’s dental needs.

“We are not a large corporate practice. We tailor our care to the individual, in a low-volume and caring environment,” adds Dr. Coleman, who is highly trained in all aspects of oral surgery and implant dentistry. “Our support staff is second to none, and we are always

available to our patients, even after the office closes.”

These board certified physicians treat each patient as they would want their wives and children to be treated, with respect, courtesy and compassion. “Our ultimate goal is to provide patients with a thorough diagnosis, the most state-of-the art oral surgery and dental implant treatment, modern facilities and equipment in a professional yet personal, caring, and, perhaps most important, safe environment,” explains Dr. Foran. “We all pay close attention to the concerns of our patients for the best possible treatment and outcome.”

Radiology

Iredell Imaging

AT MOORESVILLE

Nearly 3.6 billion diagnostic imaging examinations, like x-rays, are performed worldwide every year. Diagnostic imaging is crucial to healthcare, helping providers better understand the full extent of a patient’s injury or condition and enabling providers to detect diseases in early stages. In short, diagnostic imaging can and does save lives.

Iredell Health System opened Iredell Imaging at Mooresville in 2021 to provide the local community more choice and a place right here at home to receive these services, backed by a community-centered healthcare provider.

Conveniently located at 653 Bluefield Road, right off Highway 150, Iredell Imaging features state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging equipment and provides various imaging services, including CT scans, 3D mammography, ultrasound and general imaging, like x-rays.

All its imaging equipment utilizes the lowest radiation doses possible to obtain the best imaging possible. CT scans use a 64 Slice Revolution CT Scanner, producing fast and uncompromised image quality.

Iredell Imaging at Mooresville also has 3D mammography capabilities, with a unit designed to deliver superior accuracy in breast cancer detection while making patients feel more comfortable and less anxious. It can reduce the need for follow-up imaging, detect slightly more cancers than a standard mammogram alone, and improve breast cancer detection in dense breast tissue.

Additionally, the imaging center’s ultrasound machine is one of the most technologically advanced ultrasounds available, producing fast, precise, highquality imaging.

Iredell Imaging at Mooresville also includes digital x-rays, providing patients with fast results while improving overall patient experience and staff workflow. Imaging studies are available to anyone who has a physician order. Iredell Urgent Care –Mooresville also utilizes the imaging center, ordering studies that can be done immediately. General x-ray is available through the urgent care location 24 hours a day, every day.

Iredell Imaging at Mooresville is a community-centered imaging facility, ready to contribute to the improved health of the community.

“At Iredell Imaging, the patients are our neighbors and friends. We treat them like the family they are, and we strive to give them the best possible care that an organization can give,” says Meagan Kowalski, spokesperson for Iredell Health System.

Sherene Banawan, PA-C Neel

Gandhi, MD

John Powderly, MD

CAROLINA BIOONCOLOGY INSTITUTE

Since 2005, patients with late-stage cancer have been seeking rapid enrollment access at Carolina BioOncology Institute (CBOI) for innovative immunotherapy trials, sometimes years before these treatments are widely available. Dr. John Powderly, MD, founded Carolina BioOncology Institute with a passion to help serve the cancer community as the only independent Phase 1 clinical trial clinic in the region for cancer care. Dr. Powderly’s team has grown to more than 45 staff members, including clinicians Neel Gandhi, MD, and Sherene Banawan, PA-C, to support its expansion. Incubated within Carolina BioOncology Institute is a Human Applications Lab called BioCytics, Inc. BioCytics is developing individualized cell therapies known as autologous adaptive immune cell therapy. This pioneering research is currently in the pre-clinical phase and has been part of Dr. Powderly’s vision for more than 20 years.

CBOI is the only independent private practice fully dedicated to early phase clinical research trials in the region. The institute has seen more than 4,500 patients and opened more than 160 Phase 1 solid tumor clinical trials, several of which have led to FDA immunotherapies. CBOI has a good track record, noting most of the immunotherapies commercially approved by the FDA over the past decade were initially studied on phase 1 clinical research trials right here in Huntersville.

The clinical team at CBOI specializes in helping patients with metastatic cancer who are running out of standard commercially available treatment options gain rapid access to cutting-edge clinical research trials that are not yet widely available. Most patients can be seen within a week and enrolled in a trial within 10-14 days if they are eligible.

Recently, three patients of Dr. Powderly’s celebrated survival and complete remission of more than 10 years. These three cancer patients, with three very different cancers (melanoma, lung

adenocarcinoma, triple negative breast cancer), were among the first patients to enroll on three different phase 1 clinical trials in 2012-2014 using first generation immune checkpoint drugs. The three survivors were heavily pretreated, having failed prior chemotherapy standards of care and were faced with options of hospice or a Phase 1 clinical research trial. They volunteered to go on trial and benefited remarkably from an initial radiographic response into a complete remission that has remained durable over the past decade, without any remaining detectable cancer.

Since they were first approved by the FDA for melanoma in 2011, immune checkpoint drugs have revolutionized the treatment of cancer. Over the past decade, more than a dozen immune check-point drugs have been commercially approved (targeting CTLA-4, PD-1, PDL-1, LAG-3). Dr. Powderly

has performed the early phase clinical trials for most of these drugs. CBOI has greater than thirty different early phase clinical trials focused on immunotherapy that are currently available to most metastatic cancer patients, depending on eligibility criteria.

“It’s your body, so you need to understand what’s happening to you and what you’re fighting against. Advocate for yourself. I can’t say it enough: I would flat-out not be here if I had not been this aggressive,” says one of those patients, Stephanie McConnell. “I used to say that I’d never do a clinical trial, that I’m nobody’s guinea pig. But when a doctor tells you to go home and die? I have a child. That was not going to be his story.” Recently she and her son cruised the Mediterranean. “We’re doing all the things I talked about when I said, ‘If I live, this is the life we’re going to have,’” she says.

KHEALTHMARKETS INSURANCE AGENCY

ent Pike with HealthMarkets Insurance Agency knows what matters to people regarding their health – finding the right doctor is always important, but it’s also important to find the right coverage to see that doctor. “We work for you, the consumer, to find the right health or Medicare plan that fits your needs,” he says. Pike believes there is nothing more important than your health, therefore his focus is to simplify the health insurance search by removing the confusion. He makes this easy for his clients by taking a personal approach to the

process, stressing the importance of face-to-face communication. “We are local –local office and service yearround,” he says. “We would much rather talk to you in person where you can visit and sit down to express your concerns, rather than doing it over a phone call or email.” His personal dedication to his clients sets him apart as he brings an accessible approach to healthcare and Medicare within the Lake Norman community. As part of his own health routine, Kent is an avid golfer, who loves going to the course with his youngest daughter, hoping to compete with her in a fatherdaughter tournament one day.

Empower

Dr. Coral Kirscher, DNP, FNP-C

Whitney Lloyd, MSN, FNP-C

After experiencing firsthand the limitations of traditional medicine in her journey with an autoimmune disorder, fatigue, pain, neurological issues and microbiome dysfunction, Dr. Coral Kirscher, DNP, FNP-C realized many others are facing similar challenges. This realization led to the creation of Renew Specialty Group, dedicated to helping others overcome the same challenges she faced personally. Renew provides comprehensive care for both women and men. The goal is to empower patients to take control of their health because no one should suffer. Everyone deserves the chance to live a long, healthy and happy life.

Renew is a medical practice that combines traditional and natural approaches to achieve better outcomes for patients without resorting to surgery or toxic medication. Renew is dedicated to putting patients first and delivering results, focusing on natural and noninvasive, non-surgical options for patients, which significantly reduce pain levels, improve mobility and enhance quality of life.

Some of the services offered include medical weight loss, weight health management and help with weight loss resistance, anti-aging, natural aesthetics, NAD+, women’s health, hormone replacement therapy, Sylfirm X microneedling RF, ReSculpt body contouring, hair restoration, functional medicine, IV therapy, men’s health, TRT, male enhancement, Class 4 laser, PRP & PRF and pain management.

The goal at Renew is to empower you, the patient, with meaningful information, cutting edge research, alternative perspectives and a range of holistic options that offer you the tools you need to heal and feel well in your body, while at the same time, avoiding the potential side effects and risks of synthetic hormones, pharmaceutical medications and surgery.

Renew Specialty group is located in Cornelius on the corner of W. Catawba Ave. and Nantz Road, and offers complimentary consultations for most of their services.

‘Centered’ in the Carolinas:

Wellness retreats to jumpstart the year

Renewal has become synonymous with the start of a new year. Gyms and studios are suddenly filled with people who want to live a healthier life. But soon, without direction, enthusiasm and focus wane. The notion of living better hasn’t disappeared; it just needs support and training to take root.

Wellness retreats provide the guidance and encouragement from experts to continue the journey to self-development and healthy living. Whether you go solo, with friends or a significant other, these getaways offer healthy food and activities, educational opportunities and mindful experiences to redirect you toward the path you’re seeking.

Island Healthy Getaways

Tucked inside Shipyard, a gated neighborhood on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Hilton Head Health Wellness Resort & Spa combines a beach vacation with a fitness retreat, complete with activity and meal choices. Campus accommodations — king rooms and suites — at the Sweetgrass Inn are within walking distance of classes, the dining room and The Indigo Spa. Private villas are also available.

With guidance from the center’s staff, guests select from dozens of exercise classes offered on the beach, in the pool and inside the main building. Educational lectures on topics such as body image and sleep are taught by the resort’s staff. Kayaking excursions, day trips

to Daufuskie Island and golf outings round out the wellness menu. Guests may add specialty programs, such as coaching, fashion stylist and nutrition services, to their schedule.

Although class topics rotate throughout the year, Anne Poirer, director of behavioral health, and Bob Wright, health educator, give 30-minute interactive presentations most days. Hand-out packets with exercises for self-development and tips to practice at home set guests up for a positive experience when they return home.

Guests enjoy meals in the True Dining Restaurant, a dining room with table service. The menu, overseen by Chef Thomas Carrig (former chef to professional athletes in Charlotte), changes twice a week. Multiple options for artfully flavored beans, chicken, fish, soups, steak and vegetables help educate guests about healthy meals. Meats are purchased from regenerative farms in Georgia and the Carolinas, and vegetables are from GrowFood Carolina, a local food hub based in Charleston.

At the Chef’s Table every Friday evening, Chef T (as he’s known around the resort) showcases fine dining with low-calorie dishes. During the four-course meal with wine pairings, he explains the “how” and “why” behind each dish, often researching the history of a particular item. His hands-on cooking classes and demonstrations

Healthy walks, kayak outings and a heart-healthy menu are but a few offerings at Hilton Head Health Wellness Resort & Spa.

help guests explore new cooking techniques for meals and options for snacking.

The Indigo Spa is open late for body services, facials and massages after a day of adventure and exercise. Natural products such as Eminence, Red Flower and SkinAuthority are used in the treatment rooms.

Getting there: A four- to five-hour drive south or fly direct from Charlotte Douglas International Airport to Hilton Head Island Airport or Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. Hilton Head Health offers complimentary transportation to and from these airports, depending on availability. Hilton Head Health is at 14 Valencia Road, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Learn more by calling 888.332.6569 or visit www.hhhealth.com.

Regenerative Farm Stays

Juneberry Ridge, a 750-acre working farm in Norwood, North Carolina, offers two- and three-night weekend getaways twice a month. Guests stay in rustic one-bedroom cabins, or they can book Longleaf Cottage, a spacious three-bedroom home, all set in a wooded area. Meals are farm-to-fork, and many of the ingredients are grown on the farm.

The weekend’s itinerary fosters friendships between guests, time to

reconnect with a partner or friends and downtime for reading or walking. Each activity is designed for all comfort levels; no experience is needed to participate.

The first night begins with a welcome reception — an opportunity to mingle with the other guests and the staff who are leading the retreat. Just before bedtime, the group participates in Yoga Nidra, a guided meditation. A good night’s sleep is promised after the hour-long practice.

During the stay, a forest bathing guide leads the group through a three-hour exercise along a short path in the woods. Forest bathing, an immersive practice with a focus on healing, is attributed to lowering depression, stress and heart rate. The guide offers several invitations to discover through seeing, smelling and touching. The session finishes with tea in the forest.

Several activities such as forest bathing, the mixology class and the farm-to-fork dinner on Saturday, and the Sunday brunch are open to the community. Sign up is available on the website.

Getting there: A 75-minute drive east on country roads will take you to Juneberry Ridge’s entrance. Juneberry Ridge is at 40120 Old Cottonville Road, Norwood, NC. Contact them at 704.474.7398 or visit www.juneberry.com/farmstay.

Juneberry Ridge in Norwood offers cabin accommodations, guided yoga meditation and time in nature with “forest bathing.”

Limitless

For the area’s 55+ adults who place no limits on living their best lives!

Love in the “autumn” of life brings new depth to a relationship.

Love

in the Autumn of Life

Whether you celebrate Valentine’s Day or not (and my wife and I don’t), you will be overwhelmed with commercial images with big red bows on them — from candy bars to cars — that are intended to convince you that maybe you have not treated your significant other significantly enough.

At best, February’s love cannot know Autumn’s true embrace — the spirit, the forgiving, the kindness that grows into an affection that, in the Autumn of our years, we finally recognize a love we could not understand in the springtime of our lives. Love in the spring is a sprout. Autumn love is a majestic White Oak, whose future cannot be defined, only admired.

Going whole-hog on Valentine’s Day, if that’s your thing, usually means a husband dutifully, if begrudgingly, fulfilling the wife’s chocolate expectations with a smile on his face. And the wife reciprocates with a big smile when the red-bowed gift is presented, as if she were truly surprised. It is a game, unrelated to loving.

As a couple, if you decide this is the year to downplay this fake holiday, you will find there is perhaps more fun planning for a night at home with a favorite meal, a cuddle, a movie and that

I have been in the autumn of my life for some time now, so maybe I have some experiences from which I can draw some ideas about why love in the autumn of life is so unique.

It seems there is no precise definition or expectation for our autumn years ... for me, it has been that time when tenderness surpasses passion, and that is a very good thing. The Almighty has decided that my wife and I have a few things yet to accomplish in our seventh decade. For that thought, I am most grateful. Our health is good (according to the chart in the doctor’s office), as is our attitude most days. Those simple facts are the ingredients of a gentle daily celebration rather than a Wall Street-created fete. Let me give you an example of a gentle, loving celebration likely to take place on Valentine’s Day 2025 in our kitchen.

Over the summer and fall, thanks to the Davidson Farmer’s Market and especially the Flying Fish Seafood fishmonger, we have significantly changed our diet and who cooks what.

I volunteered to be the fish chef in our house. For most of our

special brand of “Autumn Love.”

56-year marriage, I fried the fish and other seafood, but was usually limited to largemouth and spotted bass I had caught in Lake Martin in Alabama and Lake Norman here, and redfish caught in Louisiana (called red drum in N.C.).

But, I had not cooked flounder, speckled sea trout, vermillion snapper, blue tilefish, red tilefish, or best of all, mahi-mahi. Those came from Flying Fish Seafood along with N.C. oysters, shrimp and scallops. Also, I had only one method of cooking fish — frying! If we had boiled shrimp, Sandy always cooked them. Don’t ask why. She just did!

These days, we often have a discussion of which fish we want to have for supper, how we want to cook it and any sides from the Farmer’s Market over a cup of coffee. Our discussion of a cooperatively cooked supper makes for a lovely and loving conversation. Since I have become the fish chef at our house, I have experimented with fileting fish into one-inch cubes, dipping them in beaten eggs, dredging them in a flour/cornmeal mixture and frying them at 360 degrees.

The cubed fried fish I first sampled with mahi-mahi at Pounders Restaurant on the northeast side of Oahu was the best fish I had ever

“We were together. I forget the rest.”
~ Walt Whitman

eaten. To use the Pounders method, you need a good frying or candy thermometer and a half-inch of oil in a large skillet that won’t smoke at 360 degrees. Fry the cubes for about 90 seconds and then flip for another 90 seconds. I have found that frying filets works with the same recipe and directions. I think the 360 degrees and half-inch of oil are the keys.

I have added to my fish cooking repertoire by learning to cook mildly seasoned and blacked thicker filets of any fish species, although flounder is outstanding. The blackening method is easy and is the quickest of all the processes. You dry the filets on a kitchen towel, then sprinkle your seasonings (I make my own) on both sides of the fish and pat until the seasoning sticks to the fish. Interestingly, you don’t need to coat the filet with oil before applying the seasoning.

Put a tablespoon or two of oil just to coat the bottom of the frying pan, and heat to about 370 degrees. Using a thermometer, heat the oil and place the filets. Cook the fish at three minutes per side.

I have found with all whom I love — my wife especially — the depth of my love for them is greater than I could have imagined in the summer of my life. Simple things bring great joy.

What Would St. Valentine Do?

Nothing says love like a good premarital agreement

The story of Saint Valentine dates to the third century, and today, we celebrate love and romance on Valentine’s Day. These feelings often lead to committed partnerships, and when couples decide to make their commitment official, they typically seek a marriage license and hold a ceremony — whether civil, religious or spiritual. This act of commitment invites a range of legal rules and regulations, some of which may be known, while others may be surprises to modern couples. These rules come with the intent of supporting marriage as a foundation for stable families and communities.

Just as you would plan for your estate, each state — including North Carolina — has a legal framework for how it handles marriage. However, couples also have the option to establish a legal agreement, such as a Premarital Agreement, to address specific goals and intentions that align with their financial and family dynamics.

Who might consider a Premarital Agreement? If you’re in your thirties, have built substantial wealth or have inherited significant assets, you may want to ensure that those assets are protected in the event the relationship comes to an end. If this isn’t your first marriage, or if you’re creating a blended family, a Premarital Agreement can help safeguard your wealth

for your own descendants, ensuring that your individual financial interests are preserved.

While discussing these topics with your partner may not seem romantic, a candid conversation about finances and the potential benefits of a Premarital Agreement can actually strengthen the trust and respect that underpins your relationship. In fact, having an open dialogue about these matters can foster deeper understanding and security for both partners. I believe Saint Valentine would approve of such thoughtful planning — after all, true love involves care and consideration in every aspect of life, including the financial one.

Leah Trowbridge is an Estate Planning Attorney with The McIntosh Law Firm, P.C. Contact her at 704.892.1699 or at www.mcintoshlawfirm.com/ attorneys/leah-b-trowbridge/.

Memory Care Now Open

• Assisted Living & Memory Care

• Deluxe, Private and Companion Suite options

• Residence Medical Director

• Full Service Dining Room

• Pet Friendly

• Transportation Services

• Social, Educational, Cultural, Devotional & Recreational programs

• Medication Management

• Assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, toileting and ambulation.

• Independent Living

• 1 and 2 Bedroom w/single car garage

• Full Kitchen w/ applicances including washer & dryer

• Weekly housekeeping

• Lunch & Dinner served daily

• Electricity, Cable, internet and Life Line Alert sysytem included

• Pet Friendly

Alisha Fennell DVM
Alisha Fennell DVM
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Alisha Fennell, DVM Alycen Adams, DVM Tracey Ritzman, DVM DABVP

Protect YourHeart

Expert Tips from PHC Cardiologists for American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month, an important time to focus on the health of your heart. At Piedmont HealthCare Heart & Vascular, our cardiologists are here to provide expert guidance to help you protect your heart and live a healthier life.

Daily Preventative Steps for a Healthy Heart

Dr. Ray Georgeson

American Board Certified in Cardiology, Device

Implantation- Cardiac Pacemaker & Defibrillator

Preventative care is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. According to Dr. Georgeson, physical activity is one of the most impactful steps you can take. “Engaging in 15-20 minutes of light activity, four times a week, can have an incredible effect on your heart health,” he says. Simple changes, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, can help you stay active and build a strong heart.

In addition to regular movement, Dr. Georgeson emphasizes avoiding sugar and processed foods. These foods are linked to inflammation and weight gain, which increase your risk of heart disease.

Managing Stress for a Healthy Heart

Dr. Naveed Rajper

American Board Certified in Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology

Stress can take a serious toll on your heart health.

“Chronic stress increases your risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, and other heart-related issues,” says Dr. Rajper. To manage stress effectively, he recommends:

• Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.

• Staying physically active to release endorphins and lower stress levels.

• Prioritizing sleep and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.

“Taking time to care for your stress level is just as important as caring for your physical health,” he adds.

Symptoms to Watch For

Dr. Jips Zachariah

American Board Certified in Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology, and Endovascular Medicine

Recognizing the signs of heart trouble early can save lives. Dr. Zachariah highlights key symptoms to watch for:

• Breathing Difficulties: Progressive shortness of breath, especially with exertion, may indicate a heart issue.

• Chest Discomfort: Pressure, tightness, or pain at rest or during activity should not be ignored.

• Palpitations: Sustained or irregular heartbeats, especially with dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath, are cause for concern.

• Fainting Episodes: Passing out, particularly if it leads to injuries, could signal a serious problem.

• Family History: A history of premature coronary artery disease (under 55 for men, under 65 for women) increases your risk. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Early intervention can make all the difference.

Women and Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, causing 1 in 3 deaths annually. Cardiovascular disease kills more women than all cancers combined, yet much of it is preventable with early action and awareness.

Women often experience subtler heart attack symptoms, such as fatigue, nausea, or discomfort in the jaw or back, making them less likely to recognize the warning signs. Early prevention, including regular check-ups and adopting heart-healthy habits, is key to reducing risk.

Take Action This February

If you have a Piedmont HealthCare physician, take advantage of our $99 Heart Month Special on coronary calcium score. Check your lipids and lipoproteins, work toward your ideal body weight, and commit to quitting smoking, vaping, or using tobacco products. If your A1C is above 7, now is the time to take steps to lower it. Small changes today can lead to a lifetime of better heart health.

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

Heather Hollandsworth, FNP

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

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

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

Living Well

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

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

Neurology

PHC – Neurology & Sleep Medicine

Dharmen S. Shah, MD

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

PHC – Lake Norman Neurology

Andrew J. Braunstein, DO

Ryan Conrad, MD

Craig D. DuBois, MD

Roderick Elias, MD

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

PHC – Lake Norman Neurology

Andrew J. Braunstein, DO

Ryan Conrad, MD

Craig D. DuBois, MD

Roderick Elias, MD

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

Obstetrics/Gynecology

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

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

Orthopaedic Surgery

PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint

Scott Brandon, MD

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

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

Physical Medicine & Rehab

PHC - Spine & Sports Medicine

John Lesher, MD, MPH

170 Medical Park Road, Suite 302 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506

PULMONOLOGY

PHC –Pulmonology

Enrique Ordaz MD

Jose Perez MD

Ahmed Elnaggar, MD

Vishal Patel, MD

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

Rheumatology

PHC – Rheumatology

Sean M. Fahey, MD

Dijana Christianson, DO

Janice Clayton, FNP-C

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

Dine + Wine

Eating, drinking, cooking and fun

Berries and chocolatea match made in heaven on Page 50.

A Bucket List

Item Checked

Lunch on Sardinia with a local wine did the trick

Sardinia is a relatively small island off the western coast of Italy. I recently ate lunch on the island, and it was a bucket list item for a couple of reasons. Let me explain ...

A few years back I was exploring Italian wines. I came up with a system to rank the 20 regions. It wasn’t statistically sound but it served a purpose. Naturally, the big boys — Toscana and Piemonte — dominated, but what was interesting to me was that the tiny wine region of Sardinia came in at number 7 out of the total of 20 that constitute Italy’s wine regions. That demanded that I take a deeper look at Sardinia. I did.

Due to its position off the coast of Italy, the island escaped the ravages of the phylloxera louse, an infestation that almost wiped out European wine-growing. A constant wind — the Mistral — also helps keep the island clean. What all that means is there are a lot of original, old vines on Sardinia. Original vines probably helped the island’s ranking.

Sardinia is, rightly, famous for its white wine, Vermentino. But it was a red wine that found my fancy and tickled it. It’s a red wine called Cannonau di Sardegna. A bottle of Cannonau di Sardegna joined me for my “bucket list” lunch.

Cannonau di Sardegna is a second reason I’m intrigued by Sardinia. It has long been thought that the Cannonau grape is based on Grenache. The Grenache grape arrived on Sardinia when Spain conquered the island in the early 14th century (Sardinia has a long and interesting history). However, in the past few years, Italy’s intrepid

wine researchers have uncovered evidence suggesting that Cannonau di Sardegna may well have originated right there on Sardinia. Scientific minds opine that Cannonau di Sardegna is the grape that was the parent of Grenache. That’s interesting because Grenache, today, is the foundation of many of Spain’s wines and many of the wines from southern France.

So, basically, depending on whether you’re Italian or Spanish, Grenache is based on Cannonau di Sardegna or Cannonau di Sardegna is based on Grenache. No matter, Cannonau di Sardegna is a deep, complex wine. It’s rich in taste and fragrance. Just the wine to select as a companion to have lunch with.

Then there’s an old wives’ tale. This is a wine that helps you live until 100 years old, so “old wives’ tale” has particular relevance. Cannonau di Sardegna wines have attracted a lot of attention in the last few years. Attention that’s not about their quality, but for their association with human longevity.

There are a lot of old people on the island. Sardinian locals tend to live well into their 90s and in many cases to more than 100. Diet on the island is usually given as a key factor in this. However, Cannonau di Sardegna wines are proud to be part of the cause. They’re high in anthocyanins and polyphenols, antioxidant-rich — to give a scientific rationale. These are compounds which have been linked to heart health. So, what’s not to like? You can sip on a wine that’s demonstrably heart-healthy and you can enjoy the wine as you sip. That’s what I did at my bucket list lunch. I’m fulfilled.

by Trevor Burton photograph courtesy Trevor Burton
My “bucket list” lunch companion.

Chocolate Raspberry Tart

Chocolate and Berries and Sea Salt, Oh My!

Steal your Valentine’s heart with this decadent dark chocolate and raspberry tart. In this recipe, a silky chocolate and raspberry jam ganache tops a yummy chocolate Oreo crust. When sprinkled with sea salt and garnished with fresh berries, it is absolute heaven!

Dark chocolate and berries are a long-time favorite flavor combo for me. And I am crazy for anything sea salt and chocolate flavored. So, I thought why not mix the three together? The hardest part of this recipe is letting it set. The chocolate ganache needs to be set up overnight on the counter or refrigerated for 4-5 hours.

This Chocolate Raspberry Tart makes quite an elegant dessert, and it is the perfect treat for Valentine’s Day!

Servings: 8

Prep time: 25 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Equipment needed:

Food Processor

9” tart pan with removable sides

Ingredients:

30 Oreo cookies

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

12 oz. semisweet or dark chocolate chips

1 cup heavy cream

¼ cup raspberry jam

For garnish:

Fresh raspberries

Flaky sea salt for garnish

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.

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9-inch tart pan with non-stick cooking spray and set aside. Melt sliced butter in a heat-resistant measuring cup in your microwave at 30% power for 4 minutes. Place the Oreos, melted butter and salt in the food processor and blend until the mixture resembles a fine crumb.

Press cookie mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of the prepared tart pan. Use the bottom of a juice glass, a measuring cup with straight sides or your fingers to flatten the crust. Place the tart pan on a sheet pan, bake for 10 minutes at 350 degrees then set aside on a cooling rack while you prepare the filling.

Place the chocolate chips in a medium-sized bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium-low heat until tiny bubbles start forming around the pan’s edges (do not boil!). When bubbles appear, remove from the heat, pour the warm cream over the chocolate chips and cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, remove the plastic wrap and stir until all the cream is completely blended with the chocolate. Finally, stir in the raspberry jam until fully incorporated. Pour the chocolate mixture over the crust. Use a spoon or an offset spatula to even out the mixture in the pan. Refrigerate for at least 4-5 hours or overnight.

Before slicing, carefully remove the sides of the tart pan. Place the tart on a flat plate and garnish with flaky sea salt and beautiful fresh berries. Tart can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Notes:

Add berries immediately before serving and make sure they aren’t wet. The moisture from the berries can discolor the ganache.

Lake Norman Family Branch YMCA

Since its founding in 1976, more than a few generations locally have grown up enjoying the benefits of membership at the Lake Norman Family Branch YMCA in Cornelius. You’d be hard pressed to find someone whose child – or even themselves – didn’t attend a day or summer camp, participate in youth sports, join in the aquatics fun or take a range of exercise classes at the Y, taking full advantage of its idyllic lakefront spot.

But don’t take just my word for it – let the staff and membership at the Lake Norman Family Branch YMCA brag about why it is our Lake Norman’s Best Readers Choice award winner as “Best Place to Work Out:”

“When we talk about the Y, we always say we are so much more than a swim and gym. What stands out and makes the Lake Norman Y a special place really is the people — the community and genuine relationships that are forged between our staff team and our members and participants is amazing.” — Katie Jost, Executive Director

“The Y is our go to spot for a quiet workout, friendly staff and a welcoming environment for the entire family.” — Nicolette Quinn

“This Y is actually ‘on’ Lake Norman and has water access for kayaks

and water activities ... it has two pools, and don’t mention the different weight rooms or all the elliptical and treadmill machines on different levels ... members can actually take equipment outside in the fresh air onto the deck space or stay in facing a wall of glass that looks out on the water. Apart from all of that, what distinguishes this Y from any other Y or gym I’ve gone to before is the ‘energy’ you feel walking through the door. Yet it’s even more than that, it’s what the Japanese call their WA, meaning a cultural place of balance and peace. The Y and its crew pass their enthusiastic energy on to all of its members, giving us a great place to stay fit and make friends as we work toward our goals. I can’t say enough about why we love this Y and its team.” — Sally Weithman

“This gym is exceptional! The staff treat you like family, creating such a welcoming environment. The free drop-in childcare is an added bonus — friendly, attentive caregivers that go above and beyond to love on your little ones. The clean and well-maintained equipment makes every workout enjoyable and stress-free. Highly recommended for families.” — Lindsi Maines

photography courtesy Lake Norman Family Branch YMCA
From waterfront fun to summer camps to pickleball, the Lake Norman Family Branch YMCA has it all.

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