Lake Nomran CURRENTS April 2023

Dysfunctional Functionality

This month, I’m charged with writing the editor’s letter for our April issue, which features ideas and articles on interior design. I’ve never been acknowledged for, nor have I ever been commended for, my decorating skills or my feng shui finesse, so this is a stretch for me. The best I can do is describe my own experience, which boils down to my preference for functionality versus my eschewing of aesthetics and, for me, functionality wins every time. In fact, I’m sitting atop two stacked milk crates as I type this article — only because my wife isn’t home at this time.

I’ll begin with my college days when I and three other guys occupied a two-bedroom apartment at the University of Massachusetts. We were eager to set up the apartment, to get settled in for our senior year. Each one of us understood the Zen fulfillment of realizing functionality over aesthetics, and that made life easy and pleasurable. Never has setting up a homestead been so satisfying.

For example, we needed a coffee table, so we found a discarded wooden cable spool once owned by New England Telephone Company. The spool measured about five feet in diameter and sat high enough on its side to make for comfortable eating while watching television. We hosed it down and voila, we had ourselves a zero-cost coffee table suitable for displaying chewed-up chicken bones, empty Chinese food cartons, stale popcorn and chips and dozens of empty beer bottles. Fruit crates and banana boxes made for sturdy bookshelves and storage options. Functional and utilitarian — a sure win.

We had procured mismatched and sometimes defective furniture left behind from the previous year’s graduates: a lopsided faux-leather recliner, a sofa with two legs (a couple of bricks made for a level sitting surface) and a folding card table and chairs for dining. We had a collection of random glassware, silverware, plates, pots and pans picked up at flea markets.

Our walls were covered in rock posters: Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, AC/DC. To mix it up, we had an entire wall plastered with beer bottle labels representing every available brand of suds from every part of the globe: wall art at its finest. Our bare-bones bar was built from dumpster-plywood and two-by-fours. It was ugly, but functional — a feel-good achievement. Nobody cared about an apartment being “pretty,” it was simply a place to crash, study and entertain. We had the means to live a more refined and eclectic lifestyle, but we chose not to. The good old days.

But that was decades ago and, while that was okay for college life, my appreciation for functionality was launched into oblivion once I got married. Suddenly, everything had to match. Quality mattered. Colors, dimensions, brand names, warrantees mattered, art had to have meaning and I did not like it. I once suggested to my wife that we use a discarded telephone company cable spool as a coffee table, and I was shamed then banished to a back yard lounge chair for the remainder of the day.

The spontaneity and excitement of discovering and claiming discarded useable furnishings and cool castoffs was forbidden. The thrill of using someone else’s junk was dead. Functional simplicity would be no more.

I live in a world of hand-picked furnishings, decorations and accessories. Amazon and UPS bring home-type “stuff” to my home of which I have no knowledge of ordering.

Sure, I’ve matured over the decades, and I’ve conceded certain carefree habits I once had, but I’ll never admit that aesthetics is more important than functionality — no matter how many times my wife believes she’s proven me wrong. She’s made my house a home for 35 years and I appreciate her efforts and her commitment to always doing what’s best for us. I’ll admit, family and friends often respond favorably to her design choices and her creativity. Unfortunately, there is no man cave on my property for me to get back to basic functionality, so all I can do is dream of a basement to call my own or a roomy tent in the back yard.

I hope readers will gain some valuable interior design ideas and insights within these pages because I have little to offer except for a bit of humor. Happy interior decorating.

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Co-Editor Tony @LNCurrents.com

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2023 Best of Lake Norman competition is underway, and it’s not too early to cast your votes. Vote for your favorite Lake Norman business, health club, performance venue, dining spot and more. Voting runs through June 30, so you have plenty of time to get as many votes in for your favorite business as possible! Winners will be revealed at a special ceremony to be announced soon. Winners will also be showcased in our August issue and will receive a Best of Lake Norman “CURRENTS” trophy along with an award certificate to hang prominently in your business!

vote can be submitted at www.surveymonkey.com/r/BOTL2023. *Only one vote per IP address. Employees of Currents Magazine and any of its affiliates do not qualify to vote.

Contents

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.

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.

Mooresville, Denver, Lincolnton, Statesville, Maiden, Cherryville, Shelby, Mount Holly, Hickory, Winston Salem, West Jefferson, Wilkesboro, Yadkinville, Pilot Mountain, and Mount Airy

PARTNER CARRIERS

Mike Griffin, CEO Mooresville

Kortney Houston Mooresville

Carrie Starnes Hickory

Michael Holdenrid, VP Mount Holly

Paul Renegar Statesville

Tonya Shook Hickory

Jeff Kirkendall Statesville

Leon Brown, III Statesville

Leyda Martinez Denver

Jake Kaufman Mooresville

Alex Mullen Maiden

Melissa Armstrong Mooresville

Dennis Long Statesville

Barbi Dellinger Lincolnton

Barbara Costa Mount Holly

Chad Hampton Mooresville

Tim Buri Mooresville

Channel Markers

Movers, Shakers, Style, Shopping, Trends, Happenings and More at Lake Norman

photography by Lisa Margolis

Editor’s Note: Each month we will feature one of the 2022 Best of the Lake Norman CURRENTS Award Winners and share a little more behind-the-scenes info with our readers!

Epic

More than a dozen years ago, business partners Rick Mack and Larry Sponaugle were exploring opportunities in the Lake Norman area but just hadn’t been able to settle on the right venture. As Mack puts it, they’d “been to the altar” a few times, but never clinched a deal — until a beautiful old building on Mooresville’s South Main Street ended up on their radar.

“Does this say ‘steakhouse’ to you?” Mack asked Sponaugle, and with good reason. Sponaugle is the “Mooch” in the former “Mickey & Mooch” steakhouses and certainly knew a thing or two about that dining concept. And Mack, founder of RdM Architecture in Davidson, certainly knew a thing or two about how to take something built in the late 1800s and bring it back to life.

“It had good bones,” he says, “so that helped.”

After renovating the building that was first a department store in 1888, Epic Chophouse opened in November 2010, and has been offering a delectable menu ever since. Think appetizers such as Wagyu meatballs and candied Sriracha bacon, and great cuts of beef alongside entrée options such as lamb, seafood and pasta, and you’ll understand why Epic was recognized by our readers in our 2022 Best of the Lake contest as the area’s “Best Fine Dining” destination.

Chophouse

by

Mack says they kept significant elements from the old architecture — refurbishing the hard pine floors and exposing much of the original interior brick— to bring warmth to the space and make it inviting.

“We wanted it to be a dynamic, lively place where locals could come and businesses could entertain,” he says. They have been doing that consistently for almost 13 years, and Mack says there is more to come on the horizon.

Adding to its existing locations here and in Fort Mill, SC, there are plans to open their doors to diners in Greensboro in late September and in Raleigh sometime in 2024. Mack and Sponaugle will also open a new concept — Epic Prime, serving all prime grade beef — in Rock Hill, SC, later this year.

And closer to home but a little further out on their radar, the majority partners are working on a Southern comfort food, chef-driven menu for a new concept — Hominy & Hogg. That restaurant is targeted for a spot just a few doors down South Main Street near the intersection with McLelland Avenue.

Lori Helms | photography by Oxygen Group, Heather Rasmussen, Liz Schoch and Jessica Schoch Photography

Partners in Epic Chophouse are (from left) Kurt Swearingen, Larry Sponaugle, Rick Mack and Ken Higgins. They are the minds behind Epic’s delicious menu and inviting atmoshpere.

Epic Chophouse is at 104 South Main Street, Mooresville. To make reservations or learn more, visit www.epicchophouse.com or call 704.230.1720.

Kilts, Tartans and All Things Scotland!

Loch Norman Highland Games Bring History and Merriment to Rural Hill

by Tony Ricciardelli

The Loch Norman Highland Games return to Rural Hill in Huntersville April 15 and 16. This year marks Rural Hill’s 29th hosting of the games since the event was first held in 1993.

There’s much excitement surrounding this year’s celebration with the 2023 Games expected to draw upwards of 20,000 guests who will experience Scotland’s centuries-old customs, competitive athletics, art, industry and culture. Guests need not be Scottish to embrace their inner-Scot during these two days.

One of the weekend’s highlights is the Open Highland Dance Championships, one of only six championships sanctioned by the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing held in the United States.

The competition showcases different dance styles including Highland Dance, Irish Dance and Scottish National Dance. One of the most exciting dances is the Sword Dance. Originally performed by warriors on the eve of combat, the dance uses two swords as a cross marking the dancing spot. Tradition held that if the warrior danced without touching the sword with his feet, he would be successful in battle.

Since music most always accompanies dance, it’s no surprise that the Scots have adopted the bagpipes as symbols of Scottish Nationalism.

The Loch Norman Highland Games offer a sanctioned piping competition known as the Jimmy McIntosh Piobaireachd Challenge (pronounced Piobrak) in both the band and individual categories.

The piping competition highlights world-class pipers, musicians and vocalists. Past performing artists include Seven Nations, Ed Miller and the Tannahill Weavers, a renowned Celtic band from Scotland.

Sports enthusiasts will enjoy the “Heavy Athletic” events — precursors to modern day track and field categories — reliant on strength

and endurance; a partial list of events includes the Clach Neart (stone of strength) similar to the shot put, weighing between 16 and 20 pounds; the sheaf toss, throwing a 20-pound burlap sack of straw using a pitch fork; turning the caber, tossing an 18- to 20foot long, 115 and 140 pound sections of tree trunk; the 16-pound or 22-pound hammer throw; and Highland Wrestling. Notably, several Heavy Athletic world records were recorded at Rural Hill. Non-professionals interested in participating at the amateur level should register at the Heavy Athletics tent. There is also a Long Bow and Battle Axe Throwing competition open to men, women and children.

Those interested in Scottish merchandise will find vendors selling kilts, tartans, jewelry, ironwork, photographs, wool products and more. There is also a historical militia encampment portraying a timeline extending from 200 A.D. to 1781 A.D. The camp re-enacts 18th century life in the Colonies, while the Austlend Vikings demonstrate life in 11th century Viking England.

For visitors seeking Scottish cuisine, a variety of choices are available including meat pies, Scottish barbeque, sticky toffee pudding and haggis for the gastronomically adventurous. A whisky seminar allows participants to taste and explore several varieties of scotch whiskey. Past samplings included Glenlivet, Macallan, Glenmorangie and Highland Park.

There is a “Kid Zone” offering activities for children including miniature golf and Kilted Races. There are Highland cattle, sheep herding competitions, a parade of Scottish dogs and more.

For more information about the Loch Norman Highland Games including campsite rentals, schedule of events and event registration, visit https://lochnorman.com.

| photography provided by Rural Hill

Left: A Weekend Highlight is the Highland Dance Championships Below: The Parade of Tartan

Trendy

Apparel on the Move

Nina’s Boutique Brings Fashion and Fun to Antiquity

by Lara Tumer

With a new location, Nina’s Boutique feels more at home than ever. The business celebrated the grand opening of their Antiquity storefront in March. While Nina’s boutique was previously located in Birkdale, owner Elizabeth Lavan is hopeful that this is its forever home. They have been blown away by the amount of support from the entire Antiquity community as they renovated an old bank and transformed the space into an airy, charming storefront. Cornelius is growing and Lavan is thrilled to be a part of that growth.

Named after her daughter Caterina (Nina for short), the boutique can be described as offering fun and trendy multigenerational fashion. She attributes the business’ success to the fact that there is really something for everyone, regardless of age. There isn’t another store like this in the area. The main focus of the boutique is on clothing rather than gifts or tchotchkes. Lavan looks for pieces that are comfortable, high quality and affordable.

“I am very particular about fabric” she says. “I have to touch everything before committing to selling it in the store.” While clothing makes up the bulk of Nina’s offerings, customers will find an array

of accessories, jewelry and even a small section of children’s fashions filling the store.

In addition to their grand opening, Nina’s recently celebrated Valentine’s Day with a “Galentine’s Day” event showcasing a live DJ, mimosa bar, sweet treats, permanent jewelry, photo ops and more. They plan to continue the fun with monthly events, the next of which will be a Mother’s Day tea party on Saturday, May 13, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Those who attend can expect to see Charlotte the Figgy (a rare 1991 Nissan Figaro) decked out in flowers as a backdrop, complimentary cocktails, catered tea sandwiches for nibbling, mini pies from Buttermilk Pie Shop and, of course, special promotions throughout the store.

The brand is excellent at updating their social media pages with new in-store products and upcoming events, so be sure to give them a follow to stay in the know.

photography courtesy Nina’s Boutique

Nina’s Boutique has found a new home in Cornelius after its departure from Birkdale Village in Huntersville.

Nina’s Boutique is at 21714 Catawba Avenue, Unit A6, in Cornelius. Follow the store on Instagram @ninasboutiquelkn or on Facebook at ninasboutiquelkn.

Complementary colors

1. Houston Llew Flourish Spiritile $163

2. Walnut Vase with Blown Glass $ 450

3. Casita with Blue Birds $ 295

4. Jess Floor Lamp $ 1750

5. Kristen Baird Rings from $ 150

6. Seashell Sparkle Studs from $275

7. Jasmine Table Lamp $ 970

8. Shiny Brites by Jen Stein 10x10 $95

Why We Love

Denver

On Sept. 11, 2001, I was living on Long Island, New York, running a corporate video company. After that terrible day, our company began to struggle in the aftermath of this national disaster. Soon I was looking to form a new company.

For years my family vacationed at my in-laws’ home in Westport on Lake Norman. We loved the lake but found both Denver and Charlotte wanting for entertainment and dining. In 1995, we bought a lot on the lake but did not see ourselves ever living here. But in 2003, my wife pushed me to give moving to Denver another look.

At 50, I was scared about a new start and worried how our family would assimilate into small town living. I decided to do a business tour of Charlotte and was impressed enough to make the move! We bought a small home in Westport and I started working the Charlotte business market. I had left New York City, the melting pot of the world, only to find that the Charlotte business community was, in fact, the melting pot of America. Everyone was friendly and accepting and my business quickly grew. Soon we were able to build the lake home we always dreamed of. Our children thrived in school and sports, and we loved lake life.

I also started golfing and have been a proud member of Verdict Ridge Country Club for more than 15 years. I loved New York and especially New York City, but we never looked back and couldn’t be happier in beautiful Denver.

— Lou Amico

Mooresville

My wife, Vickie, and I have lived in Mooresville our entire lives and owned Cotton Ketchie’s Landmark Galleries on Main Street in downtown for nearly 40 years. We have watched Mooresville change over the years from a small cotton mill town to a bustling city with over 50,000 citizens.

Change is inevitable, but Mooresville has gone through its transformation without losing its small-town appeal which still exists downtown and makes it just one of the things we love about living here. Today, because of Mooresville’s phenomenal growth, it is almost as if we have two towns … the one which we grew up knowing, and the new Mooresville that lies across Interstate 77. And now, between the two, Mooresville has everything one could want. We have all kinds of shopping, restaurants, great schools and nearby Lake Norman.

But, you know, it is the people who live here that make Mooresville so great. Sometimes, it is as if we are one big family — loving, sharing and caring for each other.

Mooresville is now in its 150th year of existence, and thousands of people gathered together downtown on March 4 to celebrate its birthday. A common love for our town was very evident.

And we firmly believe that the thousands of wonderful people who now reside in Mooresville, as well as all of its physical attributes, make our town the best place to live and that is why we love it so dearly.

— Cotton and Vickie Ketchie

Clockwise from bottom left, the Amico family (and friend) is Peter Amico, Nikolas Helms, Lou Amico, Janet Amico, Kelsey Amico and Carly Amico.

Why do you love your community? We would love to hear!

Please email 250 words and a photo to tell us your story! lori@LNCurrents.com

Huntersville

I arrived in Huntersville from Mystic, CT in 2005, after living in New England all my sixty-some years. The main reason was to be near my two daughters, but just maybe another was to trade those cold winters for some milder, sunnier seasons.

After a few years of return visits to friends at my former home, I began to feel truly at home upon coming back to NC and Huntersville. I realized I now had two places to call home.

Huntersville is ideally located with surrounding towns of Cornelius, Davidson, Mooresville and Denver. For a taste of city life, Charlotte is 20 minutes away. The many parks and greenways (with the crown jewel being Jetton Park), Lake Norman access, easy drive to the mountains and a bit longer to the beach, and weather suited for all year-round outdoor activities, make Huntersville and Lake Norman an ideal place to live, work and play.

— Joe Higgins

More Than Just

A Gun Store

Palmetto State Armory Has the Sport Fishing Goods, Too

Sitting in a cramped back hallway that was never meant to serve as an office, Store Manager Kenneth Tuberville speaks optimistically about the day he and his staff at Palmetto State Armory in Denver will be able to enjoy a little more elbow room.

He explains they are in the middle of a construction project, as a result of the need for more classroom, office and warehouse space to meet the demands of its ever-expanding client base. And he wants folks to know that, while the demand for gear by hunters, sport shooters and collectors continues unabated, it’s more than just firearms that you’ll find there — Palmetto State Armory has plunged right into the world of high-end sport fishing gear.

“We’re more than just a gun store,” Tuberville says, and he’s got the inventory to prove it. With a nod to the professional bass tournament circuit that’s so popular on Lake Norman, he says the fishing equipment you’ll find at his store is far from the low-cost rod and reel combinations available at other sporting goods outlets or big box stores.

Gear from Shimano, St. Croix and Megabass are just some of the offerings you’ll find, including high-end bait casters that are always popular with the professional angler. There are all the accessories as well — lures, hooks, weights, virtually everything you’ll need (except bait and a tricked-out bass boat) to get you out on the lake this year. Tuberville says Palmetto State Armory hopes to eventually partner with a local competitive fishing champion to help push out the word about their products.

As its reputation for high-end sport fishing gear grows, the demand for its selection of firearms, as well as the necessary classes and time on the shooting range to help learn to operate them safely, shows no signs of slowing. The store has some of the longest rifle lanes in the Charlotte region, with six 50-yard lanes. There are also 12 25-yard pistol lanes, which are separated visually and acoustically from the rifle lanes for the shooters’ comfort.

by Lori Helms | photography provided by Palmetto State Armory

From colorful fishing lures to high-end bait casters, Palmetto State Armory is more than a retail firearms destination.

Tuberville says their most popular course is the Concealed Carry class they offer about three or four times each month. Once the building expansion is complete later this year, the business will be able to hold both the shooting qualification portion on the range and the eight-hour classroom instruction under one roof (the classroom portion is currently held off-site but nearby). Other classes include:

• Firearm safety for children six and older: Designed for parents who want their kids to understand the fundamentals of firearms and how to safely handle them. The class includes time on the range with a parent and range safety officer present.

• Touch a Truck: A free admission annual event designed for children to meet members of the local first responder community and the equipment they use in their jobs, such as SWAT vehicles, fire trucks and other safety gear.

• Intro to Firearms: Fundamentals for adult students who have never handled a firearm.

• Intro to Handguns

• Intro to Rifles

Tuberville says the need for self-defense and personal safety are the driving forces behind the steady enrollment in their classes.

“You’d rather have the tools you need to protect yourself and your family in that situation,” he says, “than not have it and wait for 911 to show up.”

While they are seeing a lot of customers who are new to firearms or hunting, Tuberville says there is also a lot of interest from those moving here from other states, particularly those to the north of us.

“Up north, they have stricter gun laws, so they don’t have the liberty to be able to come into a gun store, get a background check and purchase (a firearm) the same day,” he says. “They come here and they’re like a kid in a candy store.”

Sweetening their firearm inventory are a variety of accessories such as red-dot optics, scopes, build kits for AR-15s, knives and apparel. Tuberville says the retailer is even branching out with their own coffee label — Caliber Coffee.

“We like to be a one-stop shop,” he says.

Think it’s too late to bother? You’re dead wrong.

by Dr. Rajal Patel, Concierge PhysicianWellcomeMD Mooresville

Despite its excellent medical research sector, the U.S. is not the only place to look for good data that really matters to my patients.

A powerful new study from Japan in the journal Age and Ageing reaches a surprising and welcoming conclusion: healthy choices can extend and improve your life whether you’re in your 40s or even your 80s.

This is a powerful study because it was carefully designed. It took place over a long span of time, gathered results from tens of thousands of participants and its findings have been republished by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) — a highly respected endorsement.

Here’s what captures my attention: the findings reinforce with hard data the advice I often give my patients.

The study’s primary author says: “The results were very clear. A higher number of modified healthy behaviors was directly associated with great longevity for both men and women.” What does that mean? It means the biggest gains for a longer, healthier life come from limiting alcohol, eliminating smoking, losing weight and increasing sleep. Benefits were strong even among those over the age of 80 and people with cancer, heart or kidney disease and diabetes in each life stage from middle-age onwards.

Furthermore, the report states: “The finding that lifestyle improvements have a positive impact on health despite chronic health conditions and

older age is an empowering one and will contribute to the design of future healthcare settings, public health approaches and policies that work in partnership with patients to promote healthy lifestyle choices.” These behavior modifications and lifestyle improvements are worth discussing with your primary care doctor.

At WellcomeMD Mooresville, we have time to pay attention to this kind of up-to-date research. We limit membership, which allows our physicians to see patients with same-day or next-day appointments. Appointments aren’t rushed. Longer and more frequent visits allow our patients to establish a proactive relationship with their doctors.

We have a “wait-less” waiting room because we stay on schedule. My patients have my email address and office phone number for day-to-day needs and questions. For after hour, weekend and holiday emergencies, I also give patients my direct cell phone number.

We’re open to new members in Mooresville, and our annual fee includes a very thorough annual physical exam and follow-up monitoring; we’re proactive about health, with extensive bloodwork and genetic testing to assess and prevent potential health problems before conditions require more serious care.

If this type of care is consistent with you or your loved ones’ health goals, call us at 704.859.0462 or visit our website www.wellcomemd.com for more information.

Chair - $1899

2. Custom Beaded Chandelier - $3800 & up

4. Custom Pillows$79 & up

5. Sandhill Crane Sculpture - $229

6. Beach Wall Art$299 & up

7. Lanterns - $49 & up

8. Serving Trays - $89 & up

Yadkin Valley

With so much to explore right here at our fingertips on and around Lake Norman, it’s easy to lose sight of what is just beyond the lakelife horizon. As we continue our march into full-blown Spring in the South, turn your thoughts for just a moment from the lake’s siren song to what lies just to the north of us in the rolling, verdant hills of the Yadkin Valley.

Only about an hour straight up I-77 lies the largest (and in one writer’s opinion, the most eclectic) wine producing region in North Carolina – the Yadkin Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area). The AVA designation is a recognition of a region with the right growing conditions — such as soil composition, topography and climate — for European-style vinifera grapes. Yadkin Valley was the first AVA recognized in North Carolina and is now home to nearly 1.5 million AVA-designated acres and more than 40 vineyards and wineries.

For centuries, much of the land was dedicated to raising dairy cattle or tobacco farming. But as the demand for tobacco began to wane and family-owned farms were on the decline, farm owners turned to grape growing and wine production as a new agricultural resource and best use of the land. That shift has been a boon for local wine en-

thusiasts, who need not travel far to enjoy the best of what the loamy soil and moderate climate of the Blue Ridge Mountain Piedmont of North Carolina has to offer.

Making it that much easier to explore regional wines is the annual Yadkin Valley Wine Festival, set for Saturday, May 20, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Elkin City Municipal Park. About 18 vineyards and wineries will be featured there this year, says Misty Matthews of the Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce — the sponsor for the annual festival.

“That’s a lot of wine in one day,” she says, adding how the festival has grown from its origins in 2002 with just eight wineries that first year. She says the festival is a great way for them to promote their brick-and-mortar tasting rooms, where wine lovers can explore what makes the Yadkin Valley wines quite remarkable while enjoying their individuality as well.

“Each of them has a different experience,” she says. “They each have a different atmosphere.” There are the French varietals at Golden Road Vineyards of State Road, the Italian experience at Piccione Vineyards

Wine Festival

Late May RituaL RetuRns this yeaR

Helms

in Ronda, the four-course series in the art of winemaking at Shelton Vineyards in Dobson and even a quaint rental cabin available at Sanders Ridge Vineyard & Winery in Booneville one could use as a launching point to visit the others. And don’t forget the best tagline in the Yadkin Valley at Shadow Springs Vineyards in Hamptonville — “Fine Wines. No Snobbery.”

This year’s Yadkin Valley Wine Festival has a new twist. The “Food & Wine Experience,” led by sommelier Jeremy Stamps of the Wisdom Table in downtown Elkin, will feature a different group of wines every hour, where wine lovers and novices alike can learn about proper food and wine pairings as well as some of the history of the featured vineyards. There will also be the opportunity to taste certain reserve wines that will not be served generally at the festival. Tickets are $25 and, as space is limited, Matthews recommends you buy your tickets in advance online.

The festival will also feature several art vendors, selling everything from pottery to furniture made from old wine barrels to leather goods to wooden bowls and cups. There is even an artist who knits lanyards for wine glasses, as well as one who melts down old wine

bottles to turn them into windows or beads for jewelry.

Matthews says they see about 2,400 festival goers each year, with a few coming from as far away as California as well as several from Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Maryland and Virginia. Those attending will also enjoy the festival’s ever-popular beach music as well as an 80s band — another new addition this year. Overall, Matthews describes the festival as a very family-friendly, fun and relaxing experience.

With a 5 p.m. closing time, there will still be enough daylight to check out the nice walking trail along Elkin Creek that runs near the festival site, or to make a trip into downtown Elkin to check out the shops and restaurants before heading back south to Lake Norman.

“We’ve worked really hard for quite a few years to upgrade the buildings and add a little bit of nightlife,” Matthews says of the downtown area.

by Lori

photography by Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce

Festival goers enjoy the festival’s beach music band (left) and the event’s laid-back atmosphere. Far left, downtown Elkin makes a great dinner stop before heading back to Lake Norman.

Elkin City Municipal Park is at 399 NC Hwy. 268 West, in Elkin. Visit the festival’s website at www.yvwf.com to learn more about ticket prices, parking, wine and food pairing classes, musical lineup and more.

After making the rounds (and sips) at the Yadkin Valley Wine Festival, check out Laurel Gray Vineyards in Hamptonville for a change of pace and taste — just a short 15-minute drive south of Elkin. The vineyard shares a double designation in both the Yadkin Valley and Swan Creek AVA (American Viticultural Area), and according to owner Kim Myers, that kind of “stamp of approval” carries a lot of weight with wine enthusiasts.

“It means that we should make some pretty doggone good wine,” she says. Receiving the AVA designation is confirmation that the vineyard has met the stringent criteria to grow European grapes in that region — a qualified mix of the right soil, altitude and land formations, among other requirements.

About 15 acres of the overall 165-acre property is dedicated to growing French vinifera grapes such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Gris and Viognier. Laurel Gray’s internationally recognized wines are available only at the vineyard — the grapes are grown and the resulting liquid bliss is bottled, labeled and sold all on the property.

20th Annual!

French Wines

with a Local Pedigree

by Lori Helms photography by Laurel Gray Vineyards

“We decided in the beginning we wanted to be small and boutique, and really handcraft wines and make them very special,” Myers says — and special they must be. “We sell out of everything.”

While Kim and her husband Benny have owned the property and developed the vineyard over the last 30 years, their property is but a portion of the original 400-acre land grant given to Joseph Myers by King George of England in 1773. At least 10 generations of the Myers family have farmed in the Yadkin Valley region ever since.

Laurel Gray Vineyards has plenty of room for a picnic, a stroll around the pond, a seat on the massive, covered veranda or new areas for hiking set to open this summer. Myers says they are also known for their beautiful flower gardens — a labor of love by her over the last 25 years.

Saturday May 20, 2023 11 am-5 pm

Elkin Municipal Park

399 Hwy 268 West Elkin, NC

For more info: 336-526-1111

www.yvwf.com

NEW THIS YEAR “Food & Wine Experience”

$25 Per Ticket (must have tasting band to attend)

Certified Sommelier Jeremy Stamps and Executive Chef Tim Thompson will be pairing some of NC best wines with delicious bites. Learn the basics of wine & food pairing, history and information of each winery, & a chance to taste reserve wines not served elsewhere at the festival.

SCAN TO BUY TICKETS EVENTBRITE*

Advance Tickets: $32

Day Of Tickets: $40

*Must be 21 and have ID in order to purchase a ticket

Music: Kids in America (80’s) 11:30-1:30pm & Too Much Sylvia (beach) 2-5pm

Parking: $10.00 per car (proceeds benefiting the Elkin Rescue Squad).

Shuttles: From local hotels @ $10.00 each passenger for all day.

Caption copy goes here. Caption copy goes here.

our contributing photographer Lisa Crates, offers photography summer camps?

The sellers turned to Domaine Staging after their home sat on the market for 3 months. Even after remodeling the home, it still lacked the pizzazz that buyers were looking for. Our team came in and turned their home into a showplace! They received 4 offers in 2 days and accepted an offer for over their asking price.

Lake Spaces

How We Live at the Lake

What’s Trending in Design for 2023

And What’s Not …

by Lori Helms

Spring fever is definitely here, and with it often comes the urge to not just clean out closets and drawers, but to possibly make a wholesale change in the look and feel of a particular room, family gathering spaces or even an entire home.

Before you make that plunge and the accompanying splurge it will likely require, make sure you check in with what’s trending in the design world when it comes to everything from paint colors to materials to appliances. We hit up some of our favorite Lake Norman area designers to learn what trends are making a strong showing, and which ones they are more than happy to show the door.

When it comes to trending colors, across the board they say that the stark white kitchens and white or gray walls so prevalent the last few years are giving way to the warmer, more neutral tones we saw back in the 1990s. Those hues extend to flooring, cabinetry and furniture finished in light colored, natural looking stains.

“Rift and quartersawn oak have been quite popular for the past few years,” says Wendy Yeakley of Home styles Interior Design. “And I see them gaining even more popularity and becoming more available options with cabinet makers.”

A pop of color is also on the menu for 2023, using warm pinks or salmon/clay hues as well as emerald and muted green palettes. Kelly Cruz, of Kelly Cruz Interiors in Davidson, says the use of classic, bold colors is hot right now.

“Think kitchen or pantry cabinets in an emerald green or salmon colors,” she says. She also believes such color treatments will extend to wall coverings, and that painted ceilings will be the norm.

Yeakley and Cruz are on the same page when it comes to trending materials for countertops, kitchen islands and backsplashes. They say coming on strong is the use of quartz and porcelain material with

Above, antiques and heirloom pieces have made a strong comeback. Right, experts say brass finishes appear to be back to stay.

bold, large-scale movement. Yeakley recommends running it up walls for dramatic accents in kitchens and bar areas, while Cruz says not all hope is lost for granite.

“Quartz countertops (man-made) are in more than granite (natural stone), but granite is not completely out,” Cruz says. “Especially in the luxury market where exotic granite and quartzite can be used to make an artistic statement.”

Many designers predict that we’ve seen the last of the brushed nickel accents and fixtures that have dominated the last several years — especially in kitchens. Marcyne Touchton, of Domaine Staging & Design, says gold finishes are definitely in and that she works strategically with her staging clients to compensate for the missing “Midas Touch” when helping them get their homes ready for the market.

“Right now, gold finishes are accepted and loved, even in real estate for homes to sell,” she says. “To save my clients money when remodeling their home for sale, I like to mix finishes. Yes, you can successfully do that if you know how to balance it.”

What’s most surprising to learn is that the omnipresent farmhouse and mid-century modern exterior design is losing popularity, while a return to natural colors on a home is on the rise. And according to Amy Pierce at Curate Design Interiors, while it might be out with the farmhouse look, there is a noticeable return to tradition as antiques are making a strong showing. She says people want heirloom and one-of-a-kind pieces again.

“My father had the largest antique store in the Southeast in Atlanta for 43 years, and my brother is still doing that and said he’s never made more money,” Pierce says. Her father predicted several years ago that antiques would never be back in style because of outlets like Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware, but Pierce says all of her antique dealer friends in New England are making a killing with this return to nostalgia.

Here’s a wrap-up of what’s hot and what’s not, according to our Lake Norman area design experts in the know:

HOT:

• Steam ovens

• Engineered/vinyl plank flooring

• Home theaters with color changing options

• Casual furniture

• Outdoor living space

• Brass finishes

• Textured/plastered walls

• Warm, neutral colors

• Painted or wallpapered ceilings

• Panic rooms/personal weapons storage

NOT:

• Microwave oven

• Carpet

• Dark, moody home theaters

• Formal furniture

• Polished nickel finishes

• High sheens

• Shiplap walls

• White or gray color themes

• Plain ceilings

Making appearances on the design trend scene are weapons storage systems, sustainable materials and popular color palettes in warm pinks and greens.

THE WARMTH OF WOOD

1. Tiza Console $949

2. Baron Chair $659

3. Evan Lamp $239

4. Arena Lamp $219

5. Marshland $329

6. Rustic Marine $289

7. Nashville Chair $689

8. Swing Shelf $285

Kelly Cruz Interiors

Created for Making Memories

Imagine this ... you’ve invited friends to dinner, your whole family is cooking in the kitchen together, with your favorite tunes playing throughout the house, and lifetime memories being made. This was our client’s vision and our mission to create.

The clients selected a builder, a home designer, and Kelly Cruz Interiors to collaborate and make it all come together. Kelly Cruz Interiors was in charge of exterior and interior architectural selections as well as furnishing the main living areas to create this rustic modern lake house.

The design of the wine cellar was created to mimic and complement the architecture of the home. Some of the key features in this custom wine cellar include the free-standing humidor, Weitzner wallcoverings to create texture and wall-mounted wine racks to display their favorite selections.

A common element throughout the home is the use and design of floating shelving units that can be seen in the kitchen, living space and wine cellar. With their pristine view of Lake Norman, it was essential to be able to host outside as well as enjoy a cigar and a glass of wine with friends. The custom designed U-shaped sectional was created specifically to fit the

space in order to maximize seating for the perfect hosting living room. The living room also features an oversized cocktail table from Century Furniture, a custom sized Stark rug and a pair of custom upholstered chairs whose pattern adds a touch of interest. But the most important element of the room is the view. The engineered wide plank wood floor provides the rustic element to this otherwise modern lake house.

The countertops and kitchen backsplash were favorite elements of the homeowners, the kitchen island is nature’s work of art. Storage was a very important factor in designing the kitchen, so we worked with Vine & Branch Woodworks out of Mooresville to design custom cabinets to fit all their cooking accoutrements as well as their pantry. The two-toned high gloss finish is a nod to the modern aspect of the design, and the wire upper cabinet fronts and painted tongue and groove ceiling adds in the rustic side.

Kelly and her team have been back to visit since the clients have moved in and the most rewarding part for them is to see the family finally living in their dream home

www.kellycruzinteriors.com | 704.895.2530

Homestyles Interior Design

Embracing the joy of entertaining

Hosting gatherings for a growing family and continuing to enjoy the neighborhood relationships built while raising four children were important. When the waterfront home across the street from their existing home at the Peninsula became available, they jumped at the opportunity to purchase it. In dire need of updating, Wendy Yeakley with Homestyles Interiors, based in Cornelius and a designer they had worked with in the past, was brought in to give the home a more modern and airier feel in the kitchen and casual dining space. A quartz material with a matte texture and waterfall edge was used for a new island that became the focal point and a space that seats seven. Directional LED pendant lighting helps in creating a mood for either task work or entertaining. Rift sawn oak

with custom stain and reeded glass cabinet fronts, a mix of finishes and new appliances including an induction cook top gave the space the custom modern look they were after. Out was the built-in desk/ casual dining space of the 90s, replaced by a beverage service area that gave the space better flow and could facilitate serving drinks to the adjacent patio for lakeside entertaining. New maple floors with a natural water-based finish tied everything together for a fresh, light and durable interior.

704-906-7469

www.homestylesinteriordesign.com

Photography by Serena Apostal

StarrMiller Interior Design

Coastal Comfort and Sophistication

We were invited to design this home on the coast of Alabama for a wonderful couple. The home was in the midst of being built and we were brought in to define the chef’s kitchen and to specify all of the finishes, fixtures and furnishings throughout the home. It was a labor of love. The interior was designed to reflect the homeowners’ love of the beautiful sunsets on Wolf Bay. Lilac and blue became the soft color scheme while the textures were reminiscent of the orange groves nearby. The two-story mosaic waterfall was designed to welcome guests to the second-floor front entry and is reflective of the amazing water views. From the stunning, unobstructed views of Wolf Bay to thoughtfully curated design elements, Grandview is an inviting oasis for living, relaxing and entertaining.

This remarkable home is sophisticated yet beautifully livable. All the tile throughout the home was carefully selected to subtly reflect unique aspects of the area’s coastal heritage. Chef-grade Decor appliances, an oversized quartz waterfall island and a temperature controlled Vintage View wine wall anchors the kitchen, and the bookmatched fireplace with a hidden TV anchor the main living area. The scullery, laundry and pet station are

conveniently close by. The elegant primary bedroom suite offers waterfront views connecting to a luxurious ensuite bath with freestanding soaking tub, walk-in shower with wirelessly controlled jets and floating vanities with wall mounted faucets.

Architect’s review once we finished:

“You introduced the perfect amount of comfort and sophistication in the most natural and seemingly effortless manner as every texture, finish and piece seemed to belong. I felt as if it was a gift to socialize in such a pleasing and creatively elevated interior space. Most importantly, your clients expressed how genuinely pleased they were with your creativity, suggestions and collaborative approach. KK even remarked how your initial interview process was the most impressive and meaningful interview she had ever experienced. They were so grateful and pleased with what you created and delivered.”

20109 Knox Road, Cornelius, NC 28031 704.896.3321 | starrmiller.com

Curate Interior Design Studio

A WOW Transformation

Local interior designer and owner of Curate Interior Design Studio, Amy Pierce, was faced with a big challenge and a shoestring budget for this incredible room transformation. With three weeks and a gutted space, Amy needed to put on her best resourceful hat to get this done and at the same time have a WOW outcome. Her biggest challenge was “no ceilings.”

She started there, by finding old wood beams in a friend’s yard and buying canvas at an art store to come up with an eye popping drape effect! She enlisted a local wood craftsman for custom mirrors to create the illusion of a larger space and painted each brick herself to further open up the room. Wanting everything to be one of a kind and with a keen eye and some good friends in the antique world, Amy carefully chose the lighting and furniture for the space. “As an office, it had to be functional but exquisite in form,” she says.

“I obviously wanted wood floors but the budget just did not allow, so a tight custom cut berber, leaving a 12” painted white border, was the solution.” Although a small space, this is Amy’s favorite project to date spanning a

20-year career. “Challenge is good, it forces you to get out of the easy click of an ‘add to cart’ and create a space that people admire, not only for the beauty but for the ingenuity,” Amy says.

Each element was thoughtfully chosen to create the rustic but chic approach. The splurge? Custom bark wallpaper was used on the adjacent windows as the window covering. The save? Free wood beams and $5 per yard canvas to create a ceiling that wows!

Amy grew up in the world of antiques and design, and understands every inch of the business. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in design and is a nationally recognized designer whose claim to fame is her extreme attention to detail and simply listening to her client’s needs, bringing that to life on a human scale with a beautiful, functional outcome.

You can see and learn more about her work at curatedesigninteriors.com and follow her @curateinteriorsstudio Consultations and inquiries can be booked on her website.

CURATED FOR YOU: MyNewFloor.com Makes Flooring Easy

If you’ve shopped for new floors recently–or taken on any other home improvement project–you know the process and number of decisions can feel overwhelming.

But what if it could be easier?

That was Carlo Garcia’s aim when he founded MyNewFloor.com, after spending more than a decade installing and selling hardwood floors, carpet, LVP, laminated wood and tile to Charlotte-area homeowners.

The result: a start-to-finish flooring project that’s easy and worry-free, with the help of a partner focused on both design and technology at every step.

A curated collection of the best-performing carpet and flooring

“The process of picking out new floors can feel complicated,” says Garcia. “We hand-select only the best-performing materials so you’ll have plenty of options at every price point, without being overwhelmed by thousands of options.”

says Garcia, who just opened the company’s third Charlotte-area showroom. “You get white-glove customer service coupled with competitive, transparent pricing and the highest-quality products in the industry. Plus, every new floor is installed by our certified, highly trained team.”

MyNewFloor.com’s curated collection comprises flooring from leading manufacturers, including Shaw, Mohawk and Mercier. The company rigorously tests all products, and maintains a wide inventory in its Charlotte warehouse, which means your floors are ready for installation as soon as you are.

“Because of our long and successful relationships with manufacturers, we eliminate the need for a middle man in the process,” Garcia explains. “This translates to faster service and better value.”

“MyNewFloor.com offers a simplified shopping experience with unmatched value,”

One low, all-inclusive price per-square-foot on every estimate

“You have enough information to sift through when shopping for your new flooring,” Garcia says. “You shouldn’t have to worry about hunting down hidden fees and add-on costs to understand the all-in price in your estimates, too.”

That’s why MyNewFloor.com offers one low, all-inclusive price per-square-foot in every estimate. And when they say “all-inclusive,” they mean it: no surprises, no unexpected upcharges. The result: competitive pricing and 0% financing that make it easy for you to budget for your project.

“We’ve got pricing down to a science,” Garcia says. “Over the last 20 years, we’ve collected and analyzed enough data to create an algorithm that computes all flooring costs. The calculation provides an all-inclusive price per-square-foot. It means you only pay for exactly the material you use, with no waste or excess. We’re always striving to find innovative ways to save money for our customers.”

Highly trained certified installers with 5+ years of experience

Selecting the right floors for your space and lifestyle, along with demo and installation, can be tedious processes sometimes fraught with unexpected challenges. Using a pro team with certified installers who’ve seen–and can efficiently troubleshoot–it all can drastically reduce your risk of delays, extra costs and potential damage to your home.

“We’re unique among Charlotte’s flooring companies in that we require rigorous testing and certifications for all installers,” says Garcia. “This means you can count on expert flooring and carpet installation done quickly, accurately and professionally.”

Before you buy it, visualize it

Flooring is a major investment, so seeing it all in context is important when making your product selections. MyNewFloor.com utilizes an advanced scanner that measures your rooms and overlays products in 3D.

“You can fully visualize the flooring from corner to corner, and around every piece of furniture,” Garcia says. “This way, accuracy is ensured and there’s no guesswork. Our imaging capability allows our measurers and installers to embed notes directly on the photos, specifying unique needs and details. We’re proud to provide an industry-leading method that changes the nature of how flooring is measured and installed.”

Start your next flooring project today

Ready to find the flooring that’s right for your home? Visit MyNewFloor.com to schedule your free estimate with a professional flooring expert, or shop the curated collection of hardwood, laminated wood, carpet, LVP and tile at MyNewFloor.com’s Blakeney, South End or all-new Lake Norman showrooms.

More Than Skin Deep

Free Facials Support Local Parenting Non-Profit Staff

As the pleasing aroma of lemongrass, lavender or basil relaxes them, licensed aesthetician Lisa Altieri lightly massages their faces and necks with special cleansers, enzymes and serums. She exfoliates, provides steamy towels and moisturizes their skin until it feels silky and replenished. Her hour-long magic eases their facial muscles, increases blood circulation, reduces puffiness and more. So, in fall 2021, when this owner of L.A. Skin Studio in Mooresville began offering biannual complimentary facials to the staff of Pharos Parenting in Statesville, there were six very happy employees.

“She graciously offers our staff some pampering as a way to thank us for the work we do,” says Tonya Fowler, executive director of Pharos Parenting. “Lisa is so talented and knowledgeable about skin care, and she spends time getting to know us and our individual needs. She is gentle and creates a relaxing environment, which helps us let go of our stress and tension. Afterwards, I feel rejuvenated and fresh.”

Marlee Wegmiller, office administrator, says her first-ever facial with Lisa was “wonderful and very relaxing.”

Every day, the Pharos Parenting staff gives it their all to make a difference for area children and their families. Their mission is to

Pins for Parenting

Reserve your lane, grab a ball and knock a few bowling pins over for a worthy cause. The Evening Exchange Club of Lake Norman is hosting its fifth annual fundraiser, “Pins for Parenting,” on April 23 from 2 to 5 p.m. at Victory Lanes in Mooresville. Money raised from this special adult-only “Casino Bowling” event will benefit Pharos Parenting and provide a $1,000 scholarship to a local youth who overcame a difficult childhood.

To join the fun, you can sign up as an individual bowler or bring a team of six to fill a lane. There’s also the opportunity to sponsor a team, provide a door prize or donate. If you come to bowl, there will be a variety of great prizes. This year’s grand prize is a weeklong stay at a Myrtle Beach condo. This event is limited to 30 teams. For more information, contact the event chair, Cyndi Richards, at eveningexchangeclub@gmail.com or reserve your spot by registering at www.victorylanes.com/pins-forparenting.

by Karel Bond Lucander

photography by Jon Beyerle

build positive parenting skills through education, in-home coaching and supportive intervention — helping to prevent child abuse and neglect. They also offer classes on the care of newborns and infants at Iredell Memorial Hospital.

Knowing how committed they are to preventing child abuse, Lisa was compelled to offer them a respite from their workday through her hands-on talent.

“I have an adopted child as well, and those ladies just spoke to my heart. What they do is a hard job and it’s a necessary job; that’s how this started.” And Fowler couldn’t be more thankful for Altieri’s pampering outreach.

“We have all agreed that this was the best gift we could have been given,” Fowler says. “As women, mothers, wives and working in this field, we rarely, if ever, treat ourselves in this way. To have someone give us that attention, focused on our relaxation and self-care, is such a treat. We are so grateful to Lisa.”

To book your facial at L.A. Skin Studio, 174 North Main Street in Mooresville, call 704-564-1666. Learn more about Pharos Parenting at www.pharosparenting.org.

Evening Exchange Club of Lake Norman members Paul Summerville and Amy McCauley with Timeout Teddy, the club’s mascot.

Photo courtesy Evening Exchange Club of Lake Norman

Contributor Mickey Dunaway shares with us the love (and labor) that is life with our canine friends.

Beauty Is

You’re Never Too Old to Be Fabulous

by

Timeless

It was late in March 2022, when I received a phone call from a dear friend.

“You should enter the Dogwood pageant!” she said with way too much enthusiasm. I laughed. “Ha! My pageant days are long over! Besides, I’m too old!” She had the perfect response.

“You’re never too old to be fabulous,” she said. “Besides, you qualify in the Ms. Dogwood division.” At that moment, I started to contemplate competing the next month. The year 2021 was tough, filled with many personal challenges and changes, and 2022 was starting out no better. I definitely needed something to pick me up, to make me feel fabulous again. So, with a little anxiety, I logged on to the Carolina Dogwood Pageant website and downloaded the paperwork. I filled it out the same day and sent it in before I could chicken out.

Competition day was a surreal blur. I am a seasoned pageant veteran, having won two local titles in Ohio and competed for the Miss Ohio crown. But that was in the mid 1980s, when I was a hot young college chick. I was amazed at how easily it came back to me. The interview session with the judge’s panel was an absolute blast. I felt surprisingly at ease and just chatted away. I chose to sing “At Last,” the iconic Etta James tune, using my daughter’s backing track. (My

daughter, Melody Hager, was Miss Asheville and Miss Statesville and competed for Miss NC).

I even felt butterflies as awards were being announced. I did not win the talent portion. “Oh nuts!” I thought. I lost. Then, when the first runner up was called and it was not me, I realized I had, indeed, done it again. I proudly have a third crown in my collection and have absolutely loved being fabulous again.

To all you ladies who are struggling as I was, you can truly do anything if you want it. At 57, I won a “beauty pageant” and proved to myself that I still can shine. So can you!

After having a successful radio broadcast career for 20 years (Magic 96.1), Luke moved into education and has been teaching social studies at Charlotte Catholic since 2009. She was a local titleholder in Ohio (Miss Medina-Lorain 1985, Miss Northeastern Ohio 1986). She currently lives in a small farmhouse on two acres in Lancaster with her sister, Cubby, and three cats, feral cats outside and a family of deer that they feed daily.

Elizabeth Luke

photography provided by Elizabeth Luke

From left, 2022 Ms. Carolina Dogwood Elizabeth Luke, 2022 Carolina Dogwood Queen MacKenzie Sharpe, and 2022 Carolina Dogwood Princess Isabella DiFiore (Sharpe and DiFiore are sisters).

The Carolina Dogwood Festival Pageant is April 22 in Statesville. Find out more at https://www.carolina-dogwood-festival.com/

by Mickey Dunaway

I Heard It Through the Grapevine

When we first moved to Cornelius, it was at the height of the low mortgage rate boom. Our new community had homes — the frames and slabs seemed to go up almost overnight. Neighbors were moving in so fast you often did not get to meet them adequately. We are a community with neighbors from all over the country who have moved to Cornelius, usually to be near their grandchildren. We are one of the few folks who moved here from the Charlotte area, but wherever we are from, we love our dogs.

So many new people with so many dogs created an interesting phenomenon. We might not have known people moving in the neighborhood by name, but we almost always knew them by their dogs’ names. Our Brittany Spaniel’s name is Boomer, and as you will see shortly, he lived up to his name. Next door to us was Augie, and there was Sofie, Max and Charm, who lived down the street and across the green from each other. Boomer and Sofie, a Miniature Schnauzer, were besties until Sofie developed a slight case of the diva, and playing with a mere bird dog was beneath her royal lineage; you understand. On every trip, we seemed to run into Boomer’s friend Badger, a Miniature Schnauzer. Badger’s trick was to stand on his hind legs and wave to Boomer with his legs.

We are blessed to live in dog-friendly neighborhoods and to have merchants in our cities welcome our canine companions if we meet for coffee with friends.

This month’s column is a story of Boomer with a precaution for all dog owners. With this episode, Boomer taught us quite a lesson.

Boomer, a Brittany — is a bird dog and a pointer. And he is the most intelligent, inquisitive, comical, curious and loving dog we have ever owned. The inquisitive, intelligent and curious parts of his personality usually get him into the most trouble. It is the comical and loving sides of him that get him out of it.

It was on a Friday. All quiet in the Glen. My wife and I decided to give The Mutt a shot by himself while we sneaked out for a cuppa joe at the local Waterbean. We forgot to adequately close the pantry door. Boomer got nosey.

I was leaving the doctor’s office after my physical therapy session with Igor for a new titanium knee when the wife called and said she

was taking The Mutt immediately to the vet because he had eaten about 10 ounces of a 15-ounce package of raisins.

I joined Sandy in a treatment room, waiting for the vet to return with some news. Boomer was doing okay. They gave him an emetic, and he hurled up two big wads of raisins, and they then gave him an IV with fluids to dilute any poison from the raisins remaining in the kidneys.

Then came the good news.

Boomer needed to spend the weekend at the 24-hour emergency veterinary hospital on the other side of the lake from us.

Then came better news.

The emergency procedures Boomer had just completed cost us half a grand, and the emergency care for that Friday night would cost another $1,500. Damn dog! — Did I write that, or just think it?

Was he worth it — the cute little bane of our existence? Of course.

It cost us a substantial hit in the wallet to learn that grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs’ kidneys and that one raisin can bring on kidney failure and death. Since Boomer ate most of the whole box, we slept poorly that night.

Our vet (educated at Auburn, of course) told us that unlike chocolate, where the level of toxicity can be determined according to the dog’s weight, raisins don’t work like that. One can kill. A box full might have no effect at all. And scientists don’t yet know what toxin in the raisin causes kidney failure, so there is no specific antidote.

Therefore, when a dog eats raisins, the course of treatment is to get your dog to the doctor quickly and be prepared to make a substantial payment into the veterinary vacation and boat fund while you are there.

One final thought.

I never did like those little shriveled up old-lady-looking-bean-sizedsinging raisins.

WHAT ARE ORAL SURGEONS

AND WHAT CAN THEY DO FOR ME?

Q: What is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon?

A: Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a branch of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association. To become an oral surgeon, one must first complete dental school. After graduation, the dentist will then complete an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency. This residency lasts four to seven years, depending on the program, and is the longest residency of any of the dental specialties.

Q: Are all oral surgeons board certified?

A: No, they are not. After completing residency, oral surgeons are encouraged to become board certified. This two-year process involves passing a written qualification exam, followed by a rigorous oral examination. Board certification is important because many hospitals will not allow an oral surgeon to perform surgeries or manage complications without board certification. Having surgical and admitting privileges to a hospital gives an oral surgeon access to other medical professionals and equipment that are not available in the private office setting. Board certification is also required to be a member of OMS National Insurance Company (OMSNIC), the largest insurer of oral surgeons.

Q: What do oral surgeons do?

A: Oral surgeons are dedicated to performing surgery on the head and neck area with much of the surgery performed in the oral cavity. Oral surgeons specialize in the extraction of third molars (wisdom teeth) as well as infected and non-fixable teeth, and even healthy teeth that require removal for orthodontics and braces; however, practice is not limited to the removal of teeth but may also involve managing trauma to the face. They perform procedures ranging from fixing small jaw fractures to complete reconstruction of complex facial injuries. Oral surgeons also treat simple to complex dental infections, which involves eliminating the infection source as well as cleaning deep areas of the head and neck and removing benign and malignant lesions. Oral surgeons can provide moderate and deep sedation as well

by Dr. Michael Foran of Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery

as general anesthesia in their offices. They also specialize in the placement of dental implants and bone grafting to prepare the mouth for implant placement.

Q: What is sedation dentistry?

A: Dentists may attend courses after graduation to receive certification which allows them to perform sedation and general anesthesia in their offices. During their many years of training, oral surgeons spend four to five intense months as an anesthesia resident in a hospital setting. Oral surgeons generally carry the more complex certifications of deep sedation and general anesthesia. Oral surgeons who carry these qualifications must also hold certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Their offices must have crash carts containing the same life-saving drugs used in emergency rooms and trauma bays, and they must have an automated external defibrillator (AED). Oral surgeons are the dental specialists best suited to provide anesthesia for surgical procedures and those patients with complex and difficult medical histories.

Q: Dental implants seem to be prevalent in dentistry today. Are oral surgeons considered implantologists?

A: No, the terms implantology and implantologist can be deceiving and are widely used marketing terms. The American Dental Association does not recognize implantology as a specialty and, accordingly, there is no such person as an implantologist. Preparing the mouth and bone for dental implants and the placement of the implant itself is a large part of an oral surgeon’s training and specialty. Many oral surgeons have advanced imaging equipment used for implant planning and precise surgical placement.

Q: How can I find an oral surgeon for my dental surgery?

A: The American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (www. aboms.org) will direct you to a board-certified oral surgeon in your area, or simply ask your trusted dentist where they send their friends, family and patients for surgery.

The Reading of the Will When, Where and How Does It Happen?

As a probate attorney, I am frequently asked when and where the reading of the will takes place. I love the visuals this conjures up — spoiled adult children, perched on the edge of their fancy leather seats in the attorney’s lavishly appointed conference room, salivating about what they might receive.

This scene has never unfolded in my office, although I was once invited to join a family for fried chicken and deviled eggs in the church fellowship hall after their loved one’s funeral to perform the reading of the will. As much as I wanted that fried chicken, I had to inform them that the reading of the will is something that largely exists only in movies and legal thriller novels.

In reality, the reading of the will happens when the will is found. Ideally, a person should leave their original will in a safe place where it can be found (preferably by the person named as Executor) when the time comes. It is important that the Executor be able to locate the original, as photocopies can only be probated in extremely limited circumstances. Once the will has been found, the person named as Executor should then submit it to the court for probate, along with the other documents required to

be formally appointed as Executor, enlisting the help of a trusted probate attorney if necessary.

Once the will is offered for probate, the clerk of court will review it to ensure that it is an original and complies with all other requirements for a valid will, i.e., witnessed, notarized, etc. Once the will is probated, the Executor should consider sending copies to the beneficiaries, in the interest of good, open communication and keeping them well informed.

Dine + Wine

Eating, drinking, cooking and fun

Photography by Lisa Crates

Eruca Sativa flatbread

Say ‘Hi’ to

High Value

Altitude just one reason Malbec has made Argentina’s Andes Mountain region its new home

by Trevor Burton photograph

of Garcia Betancourt

I have a goal to always find the best value “nugget” whenever I peruse a wine list at any restaurant. And, quite often, the nugget that pops up is a wine from Argentina — a tremendous opportunity. However, sometimes a “special occasion” also pops up and the nugget approach goes by the wayside; more of that, later.

The grape immigrant nugget in question, that the Andes Mountains have welcomed, is Malbec. In France, this grape is a minor blending component of the prestigious wines of Bordeaux or a player from a small region in the southwest, Cahors. In reality, Malbec is just a second-class citizen, an also-ran in France.

Across the Atlantic, however, it has prospered. That’s due to several reasons. First is the “terroir” of the Andes: the combination of soil, location and climate. Irrigation is vitally important, and the snowmelt from the mountains in springtime is a bounty. Add to that, two “tudes:” altitude and latitude — “tudes” with an attitude. The mountains are clearly high altitude, providing plenty of sunshine and cool nights to let grapes slowly ripen. The highest points of the range are relatively close to the equator. The range’s latitude translates to lots of daytime sunshine tempered by coolness from the other “tude.” Malbec grapes have not just taken a liking to that, they’ve flourished.

Another reason has more of a financial twist to it. Vineyards in prestigious wine regions like Bordeaux, Napa Valley and Burgundy have escalated in price. That makes it difficult for experienced winemakers to expand their reach. Argentina provides an effective alternative. Vineyard prices are attractively low, and the result is an inflow of winemakers and winemaking expertise.

All of this is a confluence of factors that is producing wines that punch way beyond their weight, resulting in wines that become my value nuggets on restaurant wine lists.

Let’s get back to that special occasion. It makes a point about how excellent Argentinean wines have become. Accompanied by a favorite niece and my wife, Mary Ellen, we were dining in a restaurant at a nifty resort. A few days prior, the three of us had a glass of wine with the resort’s head sommelier. He pointed us in the direction of a wine from a single vineyard in one of the small subregions of the Andes Mountains: the wine region of Gualtallary. This wine was a departure from Malbec; the grape was another French immigrant, Cabernet Franc.

Our restaurant sommelier decanted the wine to let it experience full breathing. After a little while, he poured the wine into our glasses. Sipping commenced and then everything got interesting. A long and complete silence fell on the table. This wine was so spectacular that the three of us simply concentrated on the wine. It was complex, full of fruit and earth and ridiculously long lasting. This was a spectacular wine.

My point is that the economic and terroir factors of Argentina are producing world-class wines. And we should pay attention. The combination of Argentina’s relatively unknown status and the excellence of grapes and terroir are producing wines of spectacular value. We are fortunate to have myriad dining spots around the lake. From any wine list, look for a wine from Argentina and you’ll find something that will superbly enhance whatever food you choose from the menu. It’s nice to know nuggets.

courtesy

A “gaucho” in the Andes Mountains, where Malbec has found its new home.

A special occasion just popped up.

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Loaded

with taste

by Kathy Dicken

Steakhouse Twice Baked Potatoes

If you like your potatoes fully loaded and piled high at the steakhouse, then you will love these Steakhouse Twice Baked Potatoes.

Crispy and seasoned on the outside and filled with fluffy, fully-loaded potato goodness — that’s what makes twice baked potatoes a steakhouse favorite! Here’s how to take the meaning of “fully loaded” up a notch.

To make your stuffed spuds truly impressive, pile them high with filling. To increase the amount of potato filling, I added steamed broccoli along with the required butter, sour cream and cheese. But my secret to making these spuds spectacular is a little package of Boursin cheese. This creamy French cheese is delicious spread on crackers or dolloped on top of a warm steak, making it the perfect addition to these potatoes.

With their plentiful filling, these potatoes make a lovely presentation for a dinner party, and they also make a perfect addition to your meal prep for the week. They can be refrigerated for two to three days after filling with the potato mixture. Simply reheat in a 400-degree oven for 20-25 minutes. Enjoy!

Servings: 4

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cooking time: 1 hour 25 minutes

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.

Ingredients:

4 medium Russet potatoes

Olive oil cooking spray

4 Tbsp. unsalted butter — softened and cubed

1/4 cup sour cream

1 package of Boursin Cheese (we used Garlic & Herb flavor)

3/4 tsp. garlic powder

1/2 tsp. onion powder

3/4 tsp. kosher salt

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1-½ cups steamed broccoli — chopped (about ½ of a steamed bag)

½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For garnish:

3-4 pieces of cooked bacon — chopped into bits

Green onion — chopped

Sour cream

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. Wash and dry the potatoes, then pierce each a few times with a fork. To ensure tasty crispy skin, mist the potatoes with olive oil spray, and season all over with salt. Place potatoes on the baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, or until soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool for 10 to 15 minutes.

When cool enough to handle, cut an oval into the top of each potato, remove and discard. Leaving about ½-inch of the skin around the edge of each potato, scoop out the inside of the potato and place it in a large bowl, leaving a thin layer in the inside of the skins. Return the skins to the baking sheet.

Add the butter, sour cream, Boursin and seasonings to the bowl of potato pulp. Use a hand mixer to blend until smooth. Using a rubber spatula, fold in the broccoli. Divide the filling evenly among the potato shells (I used a cookie scoop to refill the potatoes, and it helped me to pile them high). Finally, sprinkle each with cheddar cheese and bake again for about 15-20 minutes. Serve garnished with bacon, green onion, and a dollop of sour cream.

photography by Kathy Dicken

Providing More Than Beautiful Smiles

Scratch Kitchen by Ghostface Brewing

Livens up Langtree

Craft Beer, Eclectic Eats & Hospitality

If you are looking for a creative twist on gastropub favorites, inventive cocktails and beers on tap, look no further than Scratch Kitchen by Ghostface Brewing in Langtree. Opened in late 2020, Scratch Kitchen sources local ingredients for its appetizers, salads, flatbreads, paninis and handhelds which are all made in house.

In addition to some of their signature items such as honey baked brie and the California panini, their spring offerings include new items with seasonal ingredients. A whipped ricotta board served with lemon curd, mixed berry compote, raw honeycomb and focaccia bread for starters, a Za’atar spiced shrimp skewer served over a

quinoa cucumber salad, and a Kimchi burger with gochujang aioli, grilled scallions, avocado, bacon and cheddar cheese are some of the recent additions to their menu.

Complimenting the food are unique cocktails which are updated regularly. New to the menu this spring is “Espress Yo’self,” a dessert-style Espresso martini with Espresso Vodka, Kahlua, and Frangelico, topped with house-made buttered brown sugar, whipped cream and chocolate syrup. If you are a tequila drinker, try “The Thyme is Right,” featuring Tequila Mezcal, canton ginger, housemade blueberry thyme syrup, lime juice and bitters.

by Allie Spencer | photography by Lisa Crates

Sunday brunch

Bloody Mary board

Spicy South burger

If you’d prefer something custom, ask for the bartender’s choice. Owner Chuck Klein says that the bartenders at Scratch Kitchen will create a cocktail based on each patron’s preferences.

“Part of the experience is the hospitality aspect and the connection with guests. We are a spot where people want to return to because they left feeling they had a great experience,” he says.

And as the name suggests, Scratch Kitchen by Ghostface offers a large selection of Ghostface beers with 11 on tap (plus a cider). Options include IPAs, Stouts, Porters, Sours, and Lagers. Given their familiarity with the Ghostface brand, Klein says their staff is also adept at recommending beers to any guests who may not be familiar with craft beers.

Klein and his wife Kristin Klein opened Scratch Kitchen in partnership with Mike and Suzy Cuddy, owners of Ghostface Brewing. The Kleins also own Davidson Pizza Co., and have partnered with the Cuddys for the past six years providing pizza to Ghostface Brewing patrons. During the pandemic, the Kleins and the Cuddys decided to officially partner and become one company —Scratch Kitchen is their first project together.

“All of us have the same vision of wanting to provide awesome food, beer and hospitality,” says Chuck.

He grew up in Long Island, NY, and started out washing dishes in restaurants. He says he’s had every restaurant job possible, until seven years ago when he was finally able to open up his own concept

with Davidson Pizza Co. Launching Scratch Kitchen was an opportunity to branch out beyond pizza and beer in a brand-new location.

“The first year was really challenging,” Chuck says with regards to opening during the pandemic. “But we also saw the potential and knew we were on to something great.” He says they viewed that year as an opportunity to get better at what they did, and when the pandemic restrictions were lifted, they were positioned to succeed.

As Langtree Live events begin in May (live music every Thursday), the patio at Scratch Kitchen will be the perfect setting to enjoy the warmer weather before catching an outdoor concert. Scratch Kitchen also offers a kids’ menu (all items are $5.99) and highchairs for families, and a dessert menu in partnership with local favorite Whit’s Custard. Pro-tip: “Adult juice boxes” and Ghostface’s 20 oz. “big ass” cans are both available to-go, so grab a nightcap to take with you to Langtree Live after an indulgent dinner at Scratch Kitchen.

Ales, lager and a family-friendly venue

760 CRaft WoRks bReWeRy to open Late apRiL

by Allie Spencer

Family, craft and a passion for brewing are the cornerstones of 760 Craft Works, a new brewery opening in Huntersville at the end of April. Wagner and Trey Ramsey are the father-son owners of the brewery, a project that has been years in the making. Wagner Ramsey’s brewing interests go back to the 1990s when he started homebrewing.

“I was in a lot of breweries over the course of my career,” says Wagner, who retired from Ball Corporation, a packaging solutions company, in 2018. “And I thought, ‘you know what, I’d like to get into this.’” He says that after a few trips to Alternative Beverages, a beer supply store in Belmont, NC, he decided to pursue the hobby and, eventually, his son Trey became interested as well.

Flash forward to 2016, when Trey, who works in energy technology, moved back to the Charlotte area from California.

“I wanted to take some of the money I’d been able to save over time,” he says, “and not just invest in the stock market for a nest egg. It’d be more fulfilling to invest in the family business.”

The Ramseys bought a mini commercial system in 2017 to start brewing and familiarizing themselves with that process on a small scale. By 2018, they were seeking locations for their own brewery, a process that took several years. Finally, in March of 2021, the town of Huntersville approved the sale of the former police department headquarters to the Ramseys, and the dream of owning a family business became a reality.

“We put a lot of thought into making sure it was a warm, welcoming spot,” says Trey.

The soda shop counter stools that line the bar bring an element of old school, while the vintage rugs, upholstered window seats and lounge furniture make you feel like you’re in your friend’s living room.

The name is a nod to the 760-foot elevation line of Lake Norman at full pond, and the emphasis they place on craft in all their offerings — from

what’s on tap to the wine and cider that will be on the menu.

“It’s a celebration of handcrafted, small production stuff … and that’s not just limited to beer,” says Trey.

760 Craft Works will ultimately offer a wide selection of ales and lagers, and will have at least two when they open — a Czech lager and a Munich Dunkel. In addition, they will have a hazy IPA, West Coast IPA, two fruited sours and a big stout on tap.

760 Craft Works is truly a family business. Trey’s wife Chloe will be curating the wine selection with a focus on hand crafted wines. Wagner’s wife Ellen will oversee the food truck and entertainment calendar, and Wagner’s daughter Alyssa, who has a background in advertising, helped create the 760 Craft Works brand identity.

The Ramseys have created a family friendly environment with a family assist bathroom, changing tables and highchairs available. There will be a rotating lineup of food trucks and a partnership with neighboring Slice House Pizza, providing plenty of food options for patrons. Given their location across the street from Discovery PlaceKids and next to the greenway and pickleball courts at Holbrook Park, they hope to be an inclusive venue welcoming family, retirees and everyone in between. With 8,000 square feet indoors and an additional 4,000 square feet of patio outside, there will be plenty of space for everyone to enjoy some beverages.

“We’re excited to be a part as much as possible of building more of a community, event, activities scene in downtown Huntersville,” Trey says. “To have more of a reason for folks to not just drive through here, have people actually spend more time. There’s Slice House Pizza and Neighborhood Café … we’re hoping with us now coming here we can start to create more of an identity for the downtown.”

photography by Jon Beyerle

Left: Trey Ramsey and his dad Wagner, owners of 760 Craft Works, take a break during preparations for a late April opening.

Right: The bar takes shape where patrons will enjoy ales and craft lagers.

760 Craft Works, at 100 Gilead Road, Huntersville, is scheduled to open its doors at the end of April. For more information, follow their page on Facebook.

Will Your Favorite Business be Named CURRENTS’ 2023 Best of Lake Norman?

Vote Now for your favorites! From pizza to pet services, we have a wide variety of business categories, all competing for your vote!

Here’s how to how to vote for the business you believe is the Best of Lake Norman:

• Go to our contest website at www.surveymonkey.com/r/BOTL2023.

• Cast your vote for the business you believe is the BEST.

That’s it! We’ll compile all of the votes and announce the winners in our August issue of CURRENTS!

VOTING BEGINS APRIL 1! Be sure to encourage your friends, co-workers, family members and of course your customers to go to our voting site and cast their vote for your favorite business as the Best of Lake Norman! Voting will end June 30, so you have plenty of time to get as many votes in for your favorite business as possible! Winners will be revealed at a special ceremony to be announced soon. Winners will also be showcased in our August issue and will receive a Best of Lake Norman “CURRENT” Trophy along with an award certificate to hang prominently in your business!

So, what are you waiting for? Do it now!

GO TO: www.surveymonkey.com/r/BOTL2023

And vote for your favorites!

Only one vote per I.P. address. Employees of Currents Magazine and any of its affiliates do not qualify to vote.

Living Well

Your local resource for health and wellness services near you

Audiology

PHC – Lake Norman Ear, Nose & Throat

Megan Mathis-Webb, AuD

Susie Riggs, AuD

Del L. Hawk, Au.D

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

Michael Redmond, MD

Sarah Carlock, MD

Kristin Prochaska, PA-C

Gina Noble, PA-C

Heather Hollandsworth, FNP

Susan Stevens, RN, BSN

Michelle Caamano, RN, BSN

Laetitia Cloete, Licensed Aesthetician

128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1827

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 Ear, 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

170 Medical Park Road, Floor 3

Mooresville, NC 28117

• 704-664-9506

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

Heather C. Kompanik, MD

Bruce L. Seaton, DO

Amanda H. Bailey, DO

Kyle Babinski, DO

Sherard Spangler, PA

357 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-7328

PHC – Sailview Family Medicine

Tiana Losinski, MD

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

PHC – Fairview Family Medicine

Golnar Lashgari, MD

Jennifer Scharbius, MD

150 Fairview Road, Suite 210 Mooresville, NC 28117 •704-235-0300

PHC - Troutman Family Medicine

Amrish C. Patel, MD

Janeal Bowers, FNP

Kimberly Whiton, FNP

Kelly Buchholz, FNP

154 S Main Troutman, NC 28166 • 704-528-9903

Gastroenterology

Charlotte Gastroenterology and Hepatology

John H. Moore, III, M.D.

Steven A. Josephson, M.D.

Scott A. Brotze, M.D.

Michael W. Ryan, M.D.

Devi Thangavelu, M.D.

Vinaya Maddukuri, M.D.

Nicholas R. Crews, M.D.

Lake Norman Offices:

13808 Professional Center Dr. Huntersville, NC 28078

115 Commerce Pointe Blvd. Mooresville, NC 28117

Appointment Line: 704-377-0246

www.charlottegastro.com

Locations also in Charlotte, Mint Hill, Matthews, and Ballantyne

PHC – Gastroenterology

Brandon Marion, MD

April Lockman, NP

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

PHC –Comprehensive Digestive Care Center

Vivek Trivedi, MD

Tiedre Palmer, FNP-C

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

PHC- Gastroenterology

Laila Menon, MD

Gabrielle Miller, NP

170 Medical Park Road, Floor 3

Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506

Internal Medicine

PHC – Fox Internal Medicine

Jessica Fox, DO

Jacqueline Swope, FNP

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

LuAnne V. Gatlin, 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

Douglas Jeffery, 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

Douglas Jeffery, 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

Katie Collins, DO

Grant Miller, MD

James Wilson, MD

Nicole S. Wellbaum, MD

NailaRashida Frye, MD

Coral Bruss, ANP-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

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

James Murphy, MD

April Hatfield, FNP-C

359 Williamson Road

Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829

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

128 Medical Park Road, Suite 101

Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-658-1001

Is proud to present our 11th Annual CANINE COVER COMPETITION!

CURRENTS Magazine wants to see your fun-loving, tail-wagging, camera-craving canine adorning our Facebook page and on the cover of our annual Pet Issue coming in July.

Here’s how to enter your Furry Friend in our annual Facebook Canine Cover Competition:

1. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LNCurrents

2. Message us on Facebook with a photo of your Camera-lovin’ Canine along with a brief description of how you and your primpy pup first met and why he/she should adorn the cover of CURRENTS’ July 2023 Pet issue!

3. Contact your friends and have them “like” your post on our page!

The pup with the most votes will appear on the cover of our July 2023 Pet issue! The top three contestants will be featured inside the issue with a brief synopsis of their story!

1 2

Presenting Sponsor:

www.facebook.com/LNCurrents

ENTRY DEADLINE:

All entry photos must be submitted along with the dog’s name and name of pet-parent no later than 9 p.m. Friday, May 19. Feel free to include a brief story of why your precious pup should appear on our cover.*

VOTING DEADLINE:

All votes; aka “likes” must be in by 9pm, Wednesday, June 3.

*all contestants must reside in the Lake Norman area; Cornelius, Davidson, Denver, Mooresville, Huntersville, Troutman, Statesville. Winner will be contacted for their photo shoot to appear on our July cover!!

(one vote per person please)

2021 Winner, Brooklyn

2020 Winner, Ryder