Lake Norman CURRENTS magazine by Lake Norman Currents

SERVING LAKE NORMAN

THE PET ISSUE

JULY 2021

KAT’S SEAFOOD KITCHEN The future of

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FROM WHERE I SIT

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

Publisher MacAdam Smith Mac@LNCurrents.com

Advertising Director

Summertime I have many fond memories of summers in this area. I remember the neighborhood where we lived for 14 years in Huntersville, and how my kids learned how to swim in the pool there, or days we simply set up a sprinkler in our shaded backyard. I remember taking them to Huntersville Family Fitness and Aquatics, where even though they were frightened of the large indoor pool, they jumped in the water so they could pass the swim test that would enable them to go on the outdoor waterslide.

Sharon Simpson Sharon@LNCurrents.com

Advertising Sales Executives

Carole Lambert Carole@LNCurrents.com

Beth Packard Beth@LNCurrents.com

I have photos of them dressed up in red, white, and blue, playing in the fountains at Birkdale Village and watching the bike parade on Independence Day, and later cheering over fireworks over the lake. Carolina Cones has always been a favorite place to finish off a hot day with ice cream. Last summer it was a lot harder to do these things as we lived through the pandemic. I am grateful for the quality time my entire family got to spend together, because with my kids now being 15 and 18, summers around here don’t look like they used to. I always thought the phrase “They’ll be grown before you know it!” was a cliché, but it’s so, so true. My teenagers don’t need me to drive them to the pool, or even go with them. If they want to pick up a milkshake at Tenders, they can drive themselves. Both of my kids are behind the wheel now, one as a licensed driver, the other has his permit. One child went on an epic backpacking adventure last month with my husband and the other is busy with college prep and a part-time job. They will likely be driving themselves to summer camp here in a few weeks. I’ve spent years hoping for a little extra time for myself and now I have it. It’s time I have conflicted feelings about—there have been a few times where I went to our neighborhood pool by myself, hoping to get a little sun in while I read a novel, and other moms there gave me sideways glances, probably wondering why I was there without kids. For all the parents out there, struggling to apply the sunscreen on your children or wrangling them into life jackets before you head out on the boat, I’m here to tell you it does go by too fast. The years of waking up early and preparing multiple meals a day and learning to complete tasks with one hand while you carry a child do fade. No matter what, embrace the small moments and the journey, and no matter what stage of life you’re in, enjoy the summer. Editor Renee@LNCurrents.com

Trisha Robinson Trisha@LNCurrents.com

Event Coordinator Alison Smith Alison@LNCurrents.com

Social Media Specialist Lauren Platts social@LNCurrents.com

Design & Production idesign2, inc

Contributing Writers Trevor Burton Jill Dahan Grace Kennedy Bek Mitchell-Kidd Karel Bond Lucander Sarah Quinn Mike Savicki Lara Tumer

Contributing Photographers Jon Beyerle Lisa Crates Ken Noblezada

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Contents

About the Cover: Lisa Crates Photography took photos of Brooklyn the golden retriever for the cover.

44 LAKE SPACES How we live at the lake

47 Dwellings

A getaway on Lake Norman

CHANNEL MARKERS

Movers, shakers and more at the lake

Officer Jordan H. Sheldon Memorial Dog Park

For the Long Run Camp Wagging Tails

Cats of Davidson tackles cat population

FEATURES In Every Issue

26 Thoughts from the Man Cave

Kevin Cassidy goes from stunt man to business owner

42 Game On

Learn about The XP League-Lake Norman

44 Navigators

Water Dog Adventure Gear® in Denver

Bet You Didn’t Know The Lake Norman “Monster”

Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue

We’re Just Crazy About Pet products from Inspired at Lake Norman

28 Young Leaders

Madison Hess is in her element at Rescue Ranch

Explore new looks for your home

Meet Brooklyn, the 2021 CURRENTS Canine Cover Dog Winner

66 On the Circuit

IN THIS ISSUE

Meet the finalists of this year’s contest

A month of things to do on the lake

68 Renee Wants to Know

What’s it like to own a pet boutique

70 A Pet for You Animals are looking for their

forever homes

Eating, drinking, cooking and fun

56 Wine Time

Sancerre at Flock Bistro

58 On Tap

BYOB to Charlotte Cycle Boats

60 In The Kitchen Correction from June 2021: We failed to credit photographer Jon Beyerle for the cover photo that ran in our June issue. We regret this error and encourage you to check out more of his work on his Instagram page @on_camber_creative.

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.

10225 Hickorywood Hill Ave, Unit A Huntersville, NC 28078 484.769.7445 | www.LNCurrents.com 10

DINE + WINE

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

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.

Protein with Pizazz

62 Nibbles + Bites

Reel Cuisine at Kat’s Seafood Kitchen

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

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

Honoring a Legacy

Community members attended the grand opening of the Officer Jordan H. Sheldon Memorial Dog Park on June 5.

K9 Officer Jordan H. Sheldon Memorial Dog Park opens in Mooresville Every community has a few shining stars … citizens who are known for their contributions in supporting and uplifting with purpose and perseverance. K9 Officer Jordan Harris Sheldon was one of those people. After losing Officer Sheldon during a routine traffic stop in 2019, thousands of officers from around the country lined the streets, paying their respects and promising that his death would not be in vain. The town of Mooresville and the surrounding Lake Norman community have united once again to honor his legacy in a very special way. On June 5, the town of Mooresville celebrated the grand opening of the Officer Jordan H. Sheldon Memorial Dog Park, located at 247 Cornelius Road in Mooresville. His brother Carson Ledford shares that “Dogs were always a part of Jordan’s love and life and he loved being a K9 officer.” The park will create a permanent place in the community where his passion can be remembered and celebrated. It allows fellow K9 officers to utilize the state-of-the-art outdoor training facility, which includes an agility course. The space is not merely for officers. It was built as an outdoor oasis meant to be enjoyed by all dogs and dog lovers. The dog-appropriate fenced in areas have dog watering stations and shaded “paw”-vilions, for year round enjoyment. A number of local businesses and community partners have contributed with dona-

by Lara Tumer photography by Lisa Crates

tions in support, allowing for the building and development of the park over the past year. In addition to the memorial park, Sheldon’s K9s was also born from the loss of the officer. The organization champions the most important cause to Jordan, his beloved K9 partners. The program’s efforts include a retirement program that helps provide funds for retired K9 dogs that are no longer funded by the police department as well as an equipment program, which ensures that more dogs are given the appropriate equipment for their work in the field such as ball launchers, bullet proof K9 vests, and additional training tools. Donations can be made on the organization’s website or Facebook page. Ledford says, “The retirement program embodies what Jordan would be most proud of. He really felt that these dogs deserve to enjoy retirement.” Not many people can be called a true hero, but as more and more stories are shared about Officer Jordan Sheldon and what he stood for, it’s obvious he was the real deal. It is for this reason that “everything in his name has been service oriented”—a true testament to who he was. To learn more about Sheldon’s K-9s, visit sheldonsk9s.org. Officer Jordan H. Sheldon Memorial Dog Park, 247 Cornelius Road, Mooresville www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

s r e p m a C y Happ

CHANNEL MARKERS - for the long run

Dogs thrive at Cornelius-based Camp Wagging Tails by Karel Bond Lucander photography courtesy of Camp Wagging Tails

Owners Mary and Richard Colven.

Dogs love their time at Camp Wagging Tails in Cornelius.

If you ask Richard Colven how many dogs he has, he’ll tell you “some 2,500.” He and wife, Mary, own Camp Wagging Tails in Cornelius and that’s the number of pups they day camp or board annually. Some regulars come five days a week while others sleep over once a year. In 2011, the Colvens moved from Virginia to purchase Camp Wagging Tails from the original founders. Richard was transitioning from a corporate job that had him traveling often while Mary was parenting their four children full time. Both being animal lovers, who have two dogs and a cat of their own, Camp Wagging Tails has allowed them to pursue their shared passion. “We are blessed with a great team of people that run the business,” Richard says. “We are here helping out.” “Some staff members have been here 15 years,” Mary adds. “We view them as preschool teachers of furry toddlers. We have seven different yards, or classrooms, and the team does a great job of organizing and matching up the dogs’ play energy. Our staff also has a special heart for senior dogs, who need extra help. Even if they aren’t out there running around, they’re getting mental stimulation.” With three-and-a-half acres for dogs to play, areas are segmented by their life stage, size and energy level. And when summer season kicks off in their 20-by-40-foot bone-shaped pool with a beach entry, some like to cannonball into the deep section. “Rich tries to videotape the first pool day of the season, and it’s 18

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

like a dog version of “Caddyshack”; they get so excited,” Mary says. Unlike corporate-owned pet-care facilities that cannot make decisions without consulting headquarters or in-home care that may not be state regulated, these owner-operators can make an immediate call about tailoring to individual needs. They know the Lake Norman veterinarians well and will work with yours or emergency veterinarians if a situation arises. Their standards are high, and they require that vaccinations are all up-to-date. “It’s super important to protect the safety of the pack,” Mary says. A special service Camp Wagging Tails offers is PetMessageTM. “It is powerful and fills an emotional and psychological need for anxious, uptight dogs,” Mary says. “You put your hands on them and they say, ‘Ahh’ … You can feel their heart and breathing slow down, and you can tell they really needed it.” During the past decade, the Colvens have discovered there’s a psychology to working with dogs. “They really are individuals,” Richard says. “Your own personal energy can affect them, too.” The caretakers at Camp Wagging Tails love what they do and would be happy to bring your pups into the pack. As Richard says, “Getting my hands on dogs every day narrowly beats out meeting with customers.” Learn more at campwaggingtails.com.

CHANNEL MARKERS

The Kindest Solution Cats of Davidson seeks

to manage feral cat population in Davidson Cats of Davidson helps find homes for many of the litters of kittens born from area feral cats.

A feral cat can have up to 400 kittens in her lifetime. Only about 20 percent of those kittens will make it to adulthood. These are sobering statistics, but one when resident, Roni LaBarbera, became aware of how large the feral cat population is in Davidson, she decided she needed to take action in order to stop this cycle. Because there is no animal rescue organization in Davidson or funds allocated to help in trapping and spaying and neutering of feral cats, she formed Cats of Davidson last year at the height of the pandemic. LaBarbera had moved into a home on the west side of Davidson and started noticing the large community of feral cats nearby. She says feral cats (unowned domestic cats that live outdoors and avoid human contact) usually cannot be domesticated because they are not accustomed to being handled by other people. A friend loaned her equipment she could use, and she taught herself how to trap cats so they could then be transported to clinics that can vaccinate and spay/neuter them. Then they are released back into the community. Along the way she realized many of these feral cats are producing kittens at an alarming rate. She teamed up with another local resident Amy Doughten, to work out a plan to organize a foster plan for kittens so they could safely be adopted into loving homes. “If a kitten is between 8-10 weeks of age, it’s able to be socialized,” says Doughten. “Most are really sick, though. We end up with a lot of medical needs.” They often have painful eye ulcers and upper respiratory infections that require medication.

by Renee Roberson photos courtesy of Cats of Davidson

Doughten and LaBarbera self-funded the group for several months before other members in the community started asking how they could help. By sharing needs through their Facebook page, Cats of Davidson, they’ve been able to receive financial donations and necessary supplies and make contact with potential fosters. They now have 501c3 status and a board with five members. There’s always a lot to do. The organization has one volunteer who does nothing but call and book appointments for spaying the feral cats at area clinics such as the Humane Society of Charlotte, Stand for Animals Veterinary Clinic and SnipWell in Rock Hill, S.C. Once cats go through the spaying/neutering process, they receive a small marking on one ear and a tattoo that lets others know they’ve already been surgically treated. March through November is considered prime birthing season for cats, so the organization has its hands full. They handle all the adoptions of kittens themselves and only adopt kittens out in pairs, because it’s easier for them to become socialized with people that way. LaBarbera and Doughten say Cats of Davidson is looking for volunteers to drive cats into Charlotte for the spay and neuter appointments, volunteers to monitor traps, fosters for kittens as well as monetary donations for medical appointments, treatments, cat food, litter, and deworming medication. To learn more about the organization, or how you can help, visit www.facebook.com/CatsOfDavidson.

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

e i m Nor

CHANNEL MARKERS - bet you didn’t know

R evisited Does a mysterious creature dwell in the lake? It’s been a while since we’ve mentioned “Normie” here in CURRENTS, but for anyone new to the area who hasn’t heard the stories, there have long been sightings of mysterious creatures in different areas of Lake Norman. Author Chuck McShane discussed the origin of these stories in his book “A History of Lake Norman: Fish Camps to Ferraris”, and resident Matt Myers became intrigued enough to create a website, LakeNormanMonster. com, designed for people to share their own stories.

by Renee Roberson

ology and his advice was an inspiration to keep the site going.” In 2014, the TV show “America’s Monsters” featured the Lake Norman Monster in an episode titled “Champ & Normie” segment that also included Lake Champlain. Myers and many other Lake Norman community members and leaders were featured in the segment, which is now available for viewing on Amazon Prime.

“I’ve heard fish stories since I moved here in 2001,” says Myers. “A friend and coworker of mine bought a boat not too long after we moved. After spending some time on the boat fishing and boating, my interest peaked in these fish tales . . . I spent the time putting together a small site for people to submit their own monster fish stories. It was just for fun to start with. However, it’s taken on a life of its own and grown over the years.” So just who is Normie? Rumors have abounded for years among locals that there are “catfish the size of Volkswagens” near the dam at Cowans Ford, while others have seen a creature resembling an alligator swimming through the lake. Other speculate there could be large exotic fish jumping through the water as the source of some of these sightings. Fisherman have reported a large creature eating their fish before they could reel the catch in. The work Myers did gathering and cataloguing these sightings led to the website catching the eye of experts and television producers. “Shortly after the site started gaining popularity, I was contacted by a Swedish gentleman by the name of Jan-Ove Sundberg,” says Myers. “Jan was the Expedition Leader of GUST – the Global Underwater Search Team. He’ s been featured twice on The Learning Channel – most popularly in “Loch Ness: The Search for the Truth.” Jan took quite an interest in Lake Norman. He was even kind enough to write an exclusive introduction for the website back when it was in its infancy. Unfortunately, he passed away a few years ago, but his experience in the field of cryptozo20

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

“I worked on a documentary film crew for a couple of years about 15 years ago, so I was accustomed to the setup and lights and cameras, but it was an entirely different experience being in front of the camera,” says Myers. “The crew was great. I had a lot of input into the content and info (except they called Charlotte the capital of N.C… I’ll give them a pass. It was a Canadian crew).” The research into the folklore of Normie has also spanned two books, Lake Norman Monster: A Decade of Sightings, written by Myers and a children’s picture book, Normie the Lake Norman Monster, written by his wife Amy. Visit LakeNormanMonster.com to read more about the sightings around the lake, and keep your own eyes open next time you’re out on the water!

CHANNEL MARKERS Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue has rescued more than 4,500 boxers since 2003.

Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue finds

Pups with

Personality

forever homes for thousands of dogs

by Grace Kennedy | photos courtesy of Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue

Becky Cooke fell in love with her first boxer dog 25 years ago. When her beloved Natasha passed away and Cooke began looking for another boxer, she couldn’t believe how many boxers were homeless in the area around Hickory, where she lives. Determined to save as many boxers as she could, Cooke co-founded Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue in 2003 with her friend and Lake Norman area resident Jennifer Teague. “We were the only volunteers in the beginning and our first two rescued boxers were appropriately named Uno and Deuce,” says Cooke. “It was amazing how receptive other boxer fanciers were in our area with their willingness to join our mission, and we grew to over 20 volunteers in a matter of a few months. We currently have over 70 active volunteers in our organization.” Based in Hickory, Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue (BRBR) finds, fosters, and coordinates adoptions for boxers throughout North and South Carolina and parts of Virginia. All of their rescue dogs live in homes with foster families, who learn about their personalities and temperaments, get them crate and house trained, and help match them with the right adoptive families. The all-volunteer, nonprofit organization provides initial medical care and ensures that all the boxers are vaccinated, spayed or neutered, microchipped, and treated for any injury or illness. Whether surrendered by their owners or rescued from a high-kill shelter, these boxers are looking for families who will appreciate

the loyalty, energy, and intelligence the breed is known for. “Boxers are the ‘clowns’ of the dog world,” says Cooke. “They are comical, devoted, and can come with a stubborn streak. They are perpetual puppies, even into old age!” Having rescued more than 4,500 boxers since 2003, BRBR has plenty of success stories that keep them motivated to save more lives. Rocco was one of 11 dogs seized from a hoarding situation in South Carolina. He had never had any human contact and was so scared he would not come out of his crate by himself and would cower in the bushes when taken outside. It took him several weeks to begin trusting his foster family, but he slowly learned to play with toys, and eventually with other dogs. He started showing excitement when he saw his foster family and learned to love playing in the backyard. Thanks to BRBR, Rocco transformed from a dog who was ready to bolt at any moment and constantly afraid with his ears pinned back, into a loving, perky-eared happy boy who is living his best life with his forever family who loves him dearly. You can be the next success story for Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue by adopting, fostering, or donating, all of which you can do by visiting blueridgeboxerrescue.com. Keep your eye out for adoption fairs and events in the Lake Norman area, too! www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

YOUNG LEADERS by Bek Mitchell-Kidd photo courtesy of Rescue Ranch

Caring for the Pack Rescue Ranch employee thrives in animal care

Madison Hess works at Rescue Ranch as their Animal Care Assistant.

Madison Hess’s love of animals was fostered by her family at a very young age. “Growing up, we always had rescue dogs and cats, and owned guinea pigs, rabbits, birds, fish, and even a potbellied pig,” says Hess. “My first pet was a guinea pig named ‘Pearl,’ who showed me how much responsibility and love are required to care for animals. And, my love for animals has only grown since then,” she adds. Hess, 22, is a graduate of Davidson-Davie Community College with an Associate Degree in Zoo Science Technology. During her studies, she interned with Rowan County Wildlife, the North Carolina Zoo, and Rescue Ranch. “The internships were one of the greatest experiences of my life. I loved Rescue Ranch more than anything in the world,” says Hess. “I continued to volunteer with them and was lucky enough that the Animal Care Assistant position opened up and they called me. I’ve now been working there for over a year, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.” An average day for Hess on the Ranch is a busy one. Working with Leslie Smith, Animal Care Coordinator, and the only other staff member on the animal care team, they oversee the care of more than eighty animals. With the help of volunteers, they clean enclosures, rake the yards in the agricultural center, dispense medications, make fresh meals, provide enrichment and more. But Hess thrives in the job. “The animals are the best part about 24

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

working at Rescue Ranch,” she says. “It’s just really cool to see people learn more about the animals and gain a new respect for them. I also am lucky enough to have fantastic coworkers who really make my job even more amazing!” One of those coworkers is Amy Kwiatkowski, Manager of Development & Volunteers. “Maddie is an inspiration for other young people looking to work in the animal care industry; she shows that a great attitude and hard work really do pay off. Maddie also is inspiring because she has been fostering dogs for quite some time, not as a means to make money, just because she is passionate. Her love for animals goes far beyond a paycheck,” Kwiatkowski says. Hess’s family is currently fostering two dogs, Koda Bear and Mila Grace, with the non-profit Catering to Cats and Dogs, but they have been in the foster game for more than 14 years, beginning when then 9-year old Hess fell in love with a Great Dane from a rescue set-up out the front of Birkdale’s Barnes & Noble. “My family is the whole reason I’m here today and am able to do a career that I love,” she says. “I am lucky enough to have a family who loves animals just as much as I do. They love me and support me in everything I do, and I am so thankful for them every single day.” Hess recommends to anyone wanting to get into animal care to never give up. “Animal care is wonderful, but it can also be a very difficult field to get into. It can be tiring as well but it is a career of passion and is so worth it. If you have a passion for animals and know it’s truly something you want to do, it’s worth every second.”

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, s t n tS u

THOUGHTS FROM THE MAN CAVE

Ninjas, and the X-Games Mentality

Left: Kevin Cassidy spent more than 17 years working as a stuntman in a variety of blockbuster films. Below:Cassidy now owns Ninja Nation in Huntersville, which provides both adults and children a stateof-the-art obstacle course.

Kevin Cassidy dishes on what it’s like to live a stuntman life and why you should, too by Mike Savicki | photography courtesy of Kevin Cassidy/Ninja Nation

When I first learned I’d be interviewing an actual Hollywood television and movie stuntman for this article, I decided I’d first make a list of every badass thing I could think of that a stuntman might actually do then compare it to the reality of the craft as we chatted. The obvious badass stunts like busting through glass windows, falling from buildings, hand-to-hand fight scenes, getting lit on fire, swinging from precarious perches, driving and crashing a car, getting crushed and smothered by bad guys, and otherwise defying gravity while flying through the air all topped my list. But when Davidson’s Kevin Cassidy and I started chatting, I learned that my list had some major omissions, and there is a spiritual, soulful side to his craft. Let’s start with trampolines and sport stunts. Who would have thought these could lead to a career? You see, Cassidy, a two sport (football and baseball) high school athlete at Providence High School who then played college baseball at Lenoir-Rhyne and semi-pro baseball, initially found his way to Hollywood as one of 25 athletes in the once popular, full contact sport of Slamball, made famous on Spike TV in the early 2000s. He was chosen 26

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

from a nationwide pool of 20,000. He gave up a job as a middle school teacher to live (and get crushed) above the rim. When Slamball lost its bounce, Cassidy transitioned to movies. In one of his first films, he was signed as a “Special Ability Extra” in “The Longest Yard.” As the free safety on the inmates team, every hit, tackle, and full speed collision earned him fame and fortune, plus some bumps and bruises, too. He put his sports skills to good use and added vivid, bone-crushing reality to the movie. I never knew stuntmen played football. As far as hand-to-hand fighting and weapons use, Cassidy tried to take it to Angelina Jolie. In the movie, “Salt,” he was one of the Russian guys who tried to kill her. He got his butt kicked but earned a pretty penny.

An impressive resume Over 17 years, Cassidy appeared in more movies and television shows than he can list, including eight Marvel films such as “Avengers Infinity War,” “Endgame,” “Spider-Man Homecoming,”

“Far From Home,” “Black Panther,” “Captain America: Civil War,” “Ant-Man,” and “Ant-Man and the Wasp.” What kept him going? The love of action, the camaraderie of the industry, and his friendships. He hustled for work and earned a reputation for always being trained, ready, at on call with whatever skills might be needed. Yes, he can also drive a car and ride a horse. “Not getting hurt helped, too,” Cassidy tells me. “Stunt guys aren’t supposed to get hurt, it kind of goes against what you are trying to do, and if you don’t get hurt, and show up and do a good job, well, the phone keeps ringing and you keep working.” If you are wondering, he has had some broken bones and a close call or two. Broken ribs, a broken nose, and a broken finger but “nothing major.” There was that one time he fell 12 feet down off a block while working with Shia LaBeouf. Cassidy was sure he had broken his femur but showed up for work the next day. But behind it all, Cassidy, now the owner of Ninja Nation in Huntersville, lives and preaches what he calls the “X-Games Mentality.” It is that special energy, that zest for living, that he shares with friends in sports like motorcross, rock climbing, even wakeboarding and water sports. “It is sports in a way that is non-traditional, no travel teams, cuts, and never not being good enough,” he says. “It is about creating opportunities for yourself and others, being supportive, teaching,

and taking others along with you. It is about sports as a fun way of life, discovery and fun.”

The Three E’s If you walk, jump, roll, or otherwise stunt your way into Ninja Nation, you’ll see Cassidy, his wife, Megan, and their team living what he calls “The Three E’s” — Energy, Engagement, and Encouragement. They are as applicable to having fun in the gym as they are to life in general. “You can play, train, or compete and you can choose what you want to get out of it all,” he explains. “You can put yourself out there and discover new things about yourself, too.” So, back to my list. After chatting with Cassidy, I learned that being a stuntman isn’t as much about being able to execute any one trick or another, it is about something more spiritual and soulful. While it is definitely cool to say you’ve tried to take down Angelina Jolie or flatten Adam Sandler, it is more important to live in a way where boundaries exist primarily in the mind. From Cassidy I learned that overcoming challenges gives us confidence, and confidence, perhaps above all else, can lead to an exciting, fulfilling life. Ninja Nation 14120 Statesville Road, Huntersville 704.327.2929

D U T C H M A N S

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

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www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

COVER DOG 2021

n e d l o G The

Years

Meet Brooklyn, the 2021 CURRENTS Canine Cover Dog Winner by Renee Roberson photography by Lisa Crates

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

Troutman resident Sarah Black couldn’t have been more excited when she received the news that her canine companion, Brooklyn, was the winner of this year’s 2021 CURRENTS Canine Cover Dog Contest. “Her birthday is tomorrow so that’s a great birthday surprise!” she said. We caught up with Black before Brooklyn’s photo shoot to learn more about this 14-year-old retired therapy dog who loves all things related to Lake Norman.

Brooklyn and her owner Sarah Black live in Troutman.

What breed is Brooklyn and how did she come to live with you?

What do you and Brooklyn enjoy doing in your spare time? Any favorite LKN spots?

Sarah: Brooklyn is a golden retriever. I wanted a dog of my own for so long and even had her name picked out long before I actually got her. When I moved to North Carolina 14 years ago, I didn’t know anyone and it just felt right to finally get a puppy to help keep me company. I found her via an ad in the Charlotte Observer (before social media became so popular) and when I went to meet her, I knew it was meant to be. The rest is history...

Sarah: Brooklyn is my adventure buddy! We love being outdoors together and in her younger years, you could find us hiking, at the beach/lake (anywhere with water access for my furry fish), fostering dogs/supporting local rescues, or playing fetch in the backyard. She loves tennis balls! Our favorite spots in LKN would have to be Lake Norman State Park, Clutch Coffee (Brooklyn thinks their pupaccinos are amazing!), and the former Dippy and Scoops ice cream (so sad they are no longer open).

Could you give us a little background on Brooklyn’s previous work as a therapy dog? Where were some of her favorite places to work?

What are some life lessons that Brooklyn has taught you?

Sarah: Brooklyn has such a calming personality, so I knew pretty early on that I wanted to get her therapy certified to share her sweetness with others. After a LOT of training, she passed the test and we became a therapy dog team. I tried out a few different places with her, but it became pretty clear that she was in love with children and seemed happiest in an environment with children. We ended up doing therapy work at the Davidson Library for their Paws to Read program. She would sit with children as they read to her, and it helped them to overcome their fears of reading out loud so they would become more confident readers. She loved every minute and some of my favorite memories come from our therapy work together. She always knew she was there to work and would go right in and lay down to wait for the kids to arrive.

Sarah: Brooklyn has taught me so many amazing things in life. When I got her, I realized how amazing dogs are with their unconditional love (so cliche, I know, but it’s true). This made me want to give back to other dogs that aren’t as fortunate so she has spent several years being the best foster sister to numerous foster dogs. She is also happy doing the smallest things and has so much joy every day. So, she has taught me to just be happy—no matter the circumstances. She really has given so much to so many people in her lifetime and she is the happiest, most loving, and giving pup so it has always made me want to be that person, too. Brooklyn has had some health complications lately and she never gives up so most importantly, Brooklyn has taught me to never give up! www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

Pet Care Services The Lake Norman area is full of great places that specialize in pampering your pets. Check out these local businesses who are there to make your pet feel special.

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Congratulations to our Canine Cover Winner, BROOKLYN, submitted by Sarah Black

BROOKLYN 1st Runner-Up Lilly Submitted by Stacy Grip

2nd & 3rd Runner-Up Marley and Bear

Submitted by Debborah Armstrong

4th Runner-Up Penny

Submitted by Dawn Green

These top 5 Contestants brought to you by:

Proud to be the presenting sponsor of the Currents Canine Cover Competition. I-77 @ Exit 28 | LakeNormanChrysler.com | 704.896.3800

CURRENTS Canine Cover Competition

Chops Cannoli Castagna submitted by Stacy Gregg

Rocky

submitted by Michelle Johnson

Macy

submitted by Jody Turek

Congratulations to these Top Dog Winners!

Madden

submitted by Bethany Welch

Vepr & Maverick

submitted by Angie Stewart

Mr. Yogi

submitted by Tom Proctor

Paddington

submitted by Marnite Calder

Frank

submitted by Randy and Lori Ferrell

Keiko

submitted by Jen Chaffman

Avery

submitted by Frances Dawson

Barbara Jean

submitted by Olivia Watts

Teddy

submitted by Genevieve Gere

Sponsored By:

Bocephus

submitted by Sam Meritt

Birdie

submitted by Kelly Hadley

Cookie & Oreo

submitted by LKN Striping

CURRENTS Canine Cover Competition

Renegade

submitted by Edward M. Deaton

Audi

submitted by Ajay Stone

Luca

submitted by Eva

Leo Tolstoy DiCaprio submitted by Jennifer Arapoff

Izzy

submitted by Caroline Jarvis

Allie

submitted by John Grutko

Congratulations to these Top Dog Winners!

Nash

submitted by MacAdam Smith

Scout

submitted by Jamie Cowles

Rocky & Telluride

submitted by Jenevieve DeHart

Chandler

submitted by Katie Smith

Titus

submitted by Monica Rogers

Radar

Submitted by Cinnamon Star

Everyone at CURRENTS would like to thank all of the pet parents for taking the time to submit their pooch for consideration on our cover! We had a great time seeing all of the photos.

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

Get Connected

@ @ @ Click “be the first” at www.LNCurrents.com

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

GAME ON

Matt Phillips offers assistance to a player in the XP League-Lake Norman.

Rated “E”

for Everyone

XP League-Lake Norman bridges youth sports and video games Teamwork. Resilience. Conditioning. Sportsmanship. These are the things parents hope their children will get out of a youth sports experience like softball, basketball, or baseball. Thanks to XP League-Lake Norman, kids with a passion for video games can now enjoy the benefits of a traditional youth sports program. With 20 years of franchising experience and over five years coaching youth sports, XP League-Lake Norman Commissioner Matt Phillips is excited to open the sports experience to kids who either can’t play traditional sports, or just have a passion for being “gamers.” “All kids are welcome, and we will do whatever it takes to cater to children and make sure they have what they need,” says Denver resident Phillips, who co-founded XP League-Lake Norman with Huntersville resident Jim MacDonald. The brand-new arena at 42

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

by Grace Kennedy photography by Ken Noblezada

18535-B Old Statesville Road in Cornelius is fully wheelchair accessible, and no experience is necessary to join a team. Phillips, who is Dad to Austin (14), Zac (11) and Sophia (8), has seen how video games help Austin, who has autism, make friends, and express himself. He and Co-Commissioner MacDonald, who is Dad to Alex (11) and Brandon (14), hope this new eSports league offers every child the experience of being part of a team and working together toward a goal.

A different kind of competition The first step to joining a team at XP League-Lake Norman is to attend an open house, where families can tour the arena and learn about the league. Prior to each nine-week season, players are sorted into levels based on their experience and skills, with each level promising competition, teamwork, and fun. Teams

XP League-Lake Norman co-founders Jim MacDonald and Matt Phillips.

Do you know a gamer age 8-15 interested in joining XP League-Lake Norman? Open houses will begin in August, and the next season starts September 13. Follow @XPLeagueLKN on Facebook to stay updated or register for an open house at www. LKNesports.com.

practice together at the arena one or two times each week, and competitions are held each Saturday with one of the 40 teams throughout the U.S. and Canada that make up the XP League. Parents can watch the competitions in the arena or via livestream so they can be part of the excitement. In addition to getting them out of the house and into the company of other kids who share their interests, XP League offers coaches who are trained to enhance kids’ skills while emphasizing the importance of nutrition, endurance, and sportsmanship. “We teach them a lot more than just the game,” says Phillips. That’s not to say the games aren’t a big deal. Global gaming sales reached nearly $180 billion in 2020, according to MarketWatch, and eSports are a growing industry with lucrative career possibilities for skilled players. The National Association of Collegiate eSports claims 151 member schools with varsity eSports programs, including Davidson College and UNC Charlotte.

Opportunities abound Phillips says the industry offers job opportunities even for those who don’t go pro. There are Shoutcasters (announcers) for eSports events, tournament directors, coordinators, team managers, and more. Then there are the valuable skills honed through gaming that translate into other careers. “If you watch these kids play, they are learning so much hand-eye coordination, it’s unbelievable,” says Phillips. “That can be very useful for them if they decide to go into the military or follow other career paths that require good coordination.” He adds that XP League players have to use a lot of strategy and think outside the box to succeed in the games they play, which include Overwatch, Fortnite, and Rocket League. XP League-Lake Norman may be new, but players are already making a splash, and four teams from the current season will represent Lake Norman in the North American Finals, August 7 and 8 at the Raleigh Convention Center. www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

NAVIGATORS

Step on

Up!

Denver company helps canine family members enjoy the water by Karel Bond Lucander photography by Jon Beyerle

After Jim Perkins received a golden retriever puppy, Katie, for his birthday in 2004, he had a dilemma. Katie loved boating with Jim and his wife, Jennifer—especially swimming in the lake once they anchored. But it was tough pulling her back into the boat afterward, and that got Jim’s wheels spinning. He tried using other dog boat ladders but wasn’t satisfied. 44

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

WAG Boarding Steps® are easy to use.

Owner Jim Perkins at the company’s headquarters in Denver.

“Necessity is the mother of invention,” he says. “And I needed an easier way to get Katie on the boat. She was the inspiration for the product and my major career change.” Living in Wisconsin at the time, this 27-year research and engineering director for Kimberly-Clark took the entrepreneurial leap and invented something better: WaterDog Adventure Gear® Boarding StepsTM. These steps can accommodate a 4-pound yorkie to a 130-pound (maximum weight) Newfoundland. Made of non-corrosive materials, they work in both saltwater seas and fresh-water lakes. The dog-friendly design provides a safe way for dogs to enter and exit water from boats, docks and even swimming pools without human assistance.

The Original “Chief Officer of Fun” While testing his prototypes, Katie would sometimes give Perkins the “you want me to climb that?” look, but she was a game CFO (Chief Fun Officer) and test engineer, helping her master bring his much-needed product to market. “Thanks to her testing prowess, you don’t have to set your drink down and a duck hunter doesn’t have to set his gun down; you just watch the dog,” he says. After design and prototype testing, procuring tooling, choosing component suppliers and initial assembly, Perkins sold his first ladder in January 2012. Now his company, WAG Products, LLC, manufactures and sells nine different models of WAG Boarding StepsTM, which are mostly covered by two U.S. utility patents. Sometimes he gets special requests for custom orders, but the ladders generally cost $169 to $439.

International appeal Since Perkins has been selling WAG Boarding StepsTM he has shipped to six continents. He has customers in Canada, Europe, Australia, Thailand, Kenya, Turkey and more. “One of my favorite stories is a Turkish customer who was buying a Chris-Craft Boat, probably about $1 million,” he says. “He had Chris-Craft in Florida delay the order to add my dog ladder to the shipment.”

Sadly, after years of helping WAG, CFO Katie died in 2014. “Losing any family pet is tough, but when it was a dog that was the inspiration for WAG, it was especially difficult. It took six months to be ready to fill that hole in our lives. Sadie, who just turned 6 at the end of March, has filled the role of CFO and test engineer as well as Katie did,” Jim says. In 2020 during the pandemic, the family and business relocated to Lake Norman—an area that offers a longer boating season than Wisconsin. WAG headquarters are now in Denver. Always committed to manufacturing in America and using U.S.produced components, WAG has also been transitioning to North Carolina suppliers for high-volume items, such as injection-molded parts and corrugated boxes.

Made in the USA “U.S. manufacturing is very important to me and was a key requirement going into this,” Jim says. “I believed that if I designed the best product on the market and designed it for intelligent manufacturing, I could be competitive with products made anywhere in the world.” Creating an excellent product that worked well was also a priority. “We don’t cut corners on the materials we use,” he adds. “It is superior quality, and it’s safe and sturdy,” he adds. With 12 million registered boats and 10 million installed pools in the U.S. alone, there is no limit to how many dogs could get into and out of the water without help from their humans—thanks to WAG. “It’s always been about providing more WAG for you and your dog!” Perkins says. Visit getWAG.com. They sell exclusively online, but area customers can call 877.924.2272 to schedule an appointment for pickup (business hours vary). www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

Lake Spaces

Photography by Serena Apostal

How We Live at the Lake

The boathouse of a mid-century modern home in Mooresville becomes a relaxing retreat. p. 48 www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

DWELLINGS

The accessories on the bookshelf in the living space featured a mix of older and new items. For example, McKoy found the antique wheel on the top shelf at an antiques store in Asheville and the boat propeller came from eBay. A few of the other items came from Restoration Hardware.

The owners requested a fireplace be added into the living area. McKoy felt these leather chairs from Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams that they already owned complemented the space. The grey sofa came from Lilly & Grace in Mooresville. The wall color throughout is Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore. 48

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

A GETAWAY

ON THE LAKE Mooresville boathouse entices from the main channel

McKoy’s other projects can be found on Houzz and on her Instagram account, Michelle McKoy Designs.

by Renee Roberson photography by Serena Apostal

One of the benefits of owning an older home on the lake is that many of them include boathouses that can provide additional living spaces. Michelle McKoy of Michelle McKoy Designs had already assisted in helping a Mooresville couple renovate their 50-year-old mid-century modern home on the lake, so when they were ready to move on to the boathouse adjacent next to the home, she was already familiar with their style preferences and up for the job. McKoy’s clients wanted to use the 1,000 square-foot boathouse as a space for guests, envisioning it as an elegant but comfortable space exuding the feel of a vacation home. McKoy drew inspiration from one of their favorite North Carolina vacation spots, Old Edwards Inn & Spa in Highlands, utilizing calming paint colors and natural elements such as wooden beams and accessories. She was also able to use a lot of the owners’ existing furniture and accessories in the design creation. The timeline for the project took about four months, and like many other designers, McKoy and her clients had to patiently wait for delayed arrivals on some pieces due to pandemic-related delays. She cautioned the owners, though, that the renovation turned out so well guests might never want to leave!

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

DWELLINGS

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

The exterior paint color of the boathouse is Kendall Charcoal by Benjamin Moore. The patio furniture came from Pottery Barn, and the outdoor pillows were purchased from The Fire House Casual Living Store.

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

DWELLINGS

The Kichler Sputnik Chandelier in the dining space is from Ferguson’s. The clients already owned the table, made from reclaimed driftwood, as well as the blue glass bowl that came from a gallery in Maui.

McKoy says the bright and airy kitchen in the boathouse was already refurbished when she began the design process for the rest of the living space.

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

The framed photos above the bed are from Lilly & Grace in Mooresville, and Amanda Smith with Sew Unordinary created the custom window treatments.

Rustic Innovations created these custom barn doors leading into the bedroom. The paint color on the doors is Kendall Charcoal by Benjamin Moore. The luxury vinyl floors throughout the boathouse have the same look as hardwood but are a good choice for homes on or near water, as are the durable sisal rugs.

From Design to Build

980-483-1215 Info@McMillanDesignBuild.com www.MB-DesignBuild.com

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

Everybody Needs An Adventure Everybody Needs An Adventure!

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This beautifully restored mill is a Carolina destination that hosts 450 quality vendors, two amazing award winning restaurants within 85,000 square feet of unique!!  Antiques & Vintage Goods  Art & Home Décor  Jewelry & Accessories  Military Memorabilia  Mid-century Modern Items  American Art Pottery  Fine Collectibles

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Mon-Sat 9am-6pm 54

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

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Dine + Wine Eating, drinking, cooking and fun

A savory dish at Kat’s Seafood Kitchen in Cornelius.

Photography by Lisa Crates

p. 56 Sancerre at Flock Bistro p. 58 BYOB at Charlotte Cycle Boats p. 60 Quinoa-stuffed peppers p. 62 Kat’s Seafood Kitchen www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

DINE+WINE - wine time

Try your Sancerre with bites of Brie.

Sincere

about Sancerre

Flock Bistro al fresco means it’s officially summer by Trevor Burton | photography by Trevor Burton

Well, it’s happened again. Warm weather is here and that brings with it the awesome responsibility of dining outside. Other than my wife, one of my companions of choice when it comes to al fresco dining is a bottle of Sancerre white wine.

skies. Consequently, vines have to seek deep into the ground to get a drink and, along the way, they pick up lots of elements from the soil. Take a sip of Sancerre and the taste transports you directly to the region.

Citrus fruits give you a clue that the grape in Sancerre is Sauvignon Blanc—in France, with a few exceptions, wines are named for where they’re from and not what’s in them. In my mind, Sancerre is the benchmark for this varietal. I love the fresh, crisp grapefruit taste of Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand but I really get my taste buds giggling with the minerality of the French wine. The Sauvignon Blanc grape is grown world-wide. It is, probably, the most expressive of grapes. It really takes on the attributes of where it is grown. And that shows in Sancerre. As I said, this wine is high on my list.

There are lots of aspects to Sancerre’s aroma and taste but what jumps out and hits me on the palate is a flinty stoniness. It’s so tangible that you might look to see if you’ve got a pebble in your glass. This might sound a little unpleasant but when it’s put in the context of an aroma of hay and citrus fruits like lemon and grapefruit it becomes spectacular.

Bureaucratically, the village of Sancerre is lumped into the Loire region of France but the only connection it has with the rest of the Loire regions is its proximity to the Loire River. Sancerre is way inland, closer to France’s Burgundy region than the rest of the Loire regions. It’s isolated, with a “terroir” (soil and climate) that’s all its very own. One of the main reasons I like these wines is the way that this particular terroir shows through in the wine. The soil in Sancerre leaves much to be desired. It’s full of calcareous clay, limestone and flint. That’s a good thing when it comes to wines because it gives them complexity and character. Like most vines in the “Old World,” vines in Sancerre are not irrigated. What moisture they get comes only from the 56

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

So, hooray, it’s time for flip-flops and tee shirts. What better way to drift through the summer months than tasting wines from Sancerre? And my wife and I certainly make an effort at it. We often swing by Flock Bistro in Mooresville for a bite of lunch. Flock has a few outdoor tables. I love sitting at one of these tables with a glass or two of Sancerre. The serious decision that arises is what food to enjoy with them. Some context: in the past I had a business partner who lived in the village of Meaux, just east of Paris. He and I often noshed together on a plate of Brie de Meaux along with a glass of Sancerre. In a sense of simple nostalgia, I go for a slice of Brie with my Sancerre at Flock. Add to that a dash of foie gras and a baguette and you’re in for a simply delicious experience. Flock’s chef turns this basic dish into a work of art; a classic, tasty work of art. With all of this in front of me, I’m in full French food and wine mode. I can’t think of a tastier place to be. And so, yes— I’m very sincere about Sancerre.

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www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

DINE+WINE | on tap

The Party That Never Stops Moving What you need to know about Charlotte Cycle Boats by Sarah Quinn | photos courtesy of Charlotte Cycle Boats

Summer is in full swing, and after a global pandemic that filled last summer with social distancing, stay-at-home orders, and masks, we are all looking to make up for the lost time. You could get back together with friends, family, or co-workers. Or maybe you could spend some time out on the lake. Perhaps you could enjoy some drinks and some good music. Or maybe you just want to work out again. But what if I told you that you could do all these things at once? With Charlotte Cycle Boats in Davidson, you can! Charlotte Cycle Boats takes you on a 2-hour chartered cruise on Lake Norman to drink, listen to music, party, get together with friends, and, of course, cycle. Guests can bring their own snacks, beverages, wine, champagne and beer (grab your favorite selections from your favorite breweries ahead of time!) Note: No liquor is allowed on board. We sat down with founder and owner, Rob Bennett, to ask some questions about his company Charlotte Cycle Boats. Responses are edited for clarity and space. CURRENTS: How did you get the business started? Bennett: I saw the idea online back in 2016 and I purchased the boat in 2017. The boat comes from Bend, Oregon. It was the 25th cycle boat in the country, and it was the very first cycle boat in North Carolina, at the time. CURRENTS: How often do you run the charters? Bennett: We have them available during the week for companies; any day is available. We do sunset cruises five days a week and then on the weekends, we do up to four cruises a day. CURRENTS: As for the age range on mixer cruises, what does that usually look like? Bennett: So, the mixers are always 21 plus, but I’ve had Bailey’s Glen retirement {homeowners}come out with us. They peddled more than these 20-year-old kids do. CURRENTS: What kind of different events do you guys do? Bennett: We have done some 80’s themed rocker cruises. And I’ve done bat mitzvahs, I’ve done birthday parties, [and] we do a lot of bachelorette parties, obviously. Our big push this year is that I’m really trying to promote companies reuniting their employees. Everybody’s been apart for a year. Two hours out on the lake, kind of the reunion cruise [that’s] getting everybody back together, whether it’s families or companies.

Charlotte Cycle Boats is a great setting for bachelor/bachelorette parties.

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

CURRENTS: What should people know before they make a reservation? Bennett: They can book individual mixer tickets on their own or they can book the whole boat. What they can bring is beer, wine, snacks. It is a pedal-powered boat, it does require some peddling but it’s not something that somebody would have to [over] exert themselves [with].

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

DINE+WINE | in the kitchen

PROTEIN WITH

Pizazz

Enjoy some summer lovin’ with an easy summer’s night dinner! Your family and friends will love this dish and since it’s easy to make, so will you. Start with Mediterranean-spiced quinoa laid gently inside roasted peppers all nestled in rich spicy tomato sauce. Quinoa is a quick vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free filling option that is a powerhouse of protein. If you fancy it, you can personalize your peppers with a sprinkle of tasty cheese for those cheese lovers in your crowd. So keep it easy, relax and unwind— it’s summertime! Mediterranean Quinoa Stuffed Peppers with Tomato Coulis 2 green peppers 1 cup uncooked quinoa 1 finely chopped yellow or sweet onion 2 garlic cloves crushed 2 tablespoons each fresh finely chopped mint and parsley 2 teaspoons zaatar seasoning or 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 jalapeno pepper de seeded and chopped finely (optional) 1/2 cup shelled and lightly crushed light salt pistachios Juice of 1/2 a lemon Sauce 12 ounces (1/2 a jar) tomato passata 1 jalapeno, de seeded and grated sea salt and pepper 2 garlic cloves crushed 1/2 -3/4 cup grated tasty cheese (parmesan, cheddar, manchego)

Roberson y by Glenn Photograph

Sauté the onions on low in a covered pan for about five minutes until softened. Add in two cups boiling water and the quinoa and cover. Cook on low heat for 10 minutes then turn off and leave covered until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. Mix in two crushed garlic cloves, zaatar or oregano and thyme, mint, parsley, lemon juice, and pistachios and set aside. Mix the passata with two garlic cloves, grated jalapeno, and bit of salt and pepper. Spread on the bottom of a 9-inch backing pan. Cut peppers in half lengthwise starting at the stem and clean out seeds and white membranes. Fill each half with the quinoa mixture heaping it over the top and place each in the baking pan. Sprinkle with cheese if using and bake at 375F for 30-35 minutes until the pepper is softened. Serve warm with the sauce. Serves four.

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

Jill Dahan lives in Cornelius and is the author of Starting Fresh! Recipes for Life. You can learn more about her at www.jilldahan.com. To learn more about her nonprofit, Sunninghill Jill Kids, visit www.sunninghilljillkids.org.

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DINE+WINE | nibbles + bites

Radford and Kat Bennett.

Reel Cuisine

Catch the specials at Kat’s Seafood Kitchen

by Lara Tumer | photography by Lisa Crates

For a lakefront community, it’s rather surprising that there are not more seafood focused restaurants in Lake Norman. This is the void that owners Jim Gordon and Rad Bennett wanted to fill when opening Kat’s Seafood Kitchen in Cornelius just over a year ago. The two were not lacking in restaurant experience, finding a good amount of success with their other first restaurant, Jack’s Corner Tavern. The two restaurants are both in Cornelius, less than a half mile from one another.

Above: The restaurant offers plenty of fried seafood such as flounder, shrimp, clam strips and fish and chips. Below: Outdoor seating is available.

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

While opening during the pandemic was a challenge, the draw of fresh seafood helped push along the popularity of this casual eatery. The space, which was formerly home to Lake Town Tavern, got a major facelift. Almost every aspect of the restaurant was redone—the floors, the furniture, the exterior, the signage, and even the parking lot are brand new.

Coast on in

While the updated space is certainly a draw, the real focus is on the food, with a menu that makes you feel like you’re on the coast. Which coast you may ask? That’s kind of the beauty of this

menu. “Everyone has a different idea of what seafood should taste like depending on where they’re from,” explains Bennett. Up north, king crab is the variety people are looking for, on the west coast, it’s Dungeness crab that’s come to be expected. It’s for this reason that the menu has a little bit of everything. It’s an approachable price point for people from anywhere and everywhere.

specialist to develop a menu of rum-focused cocktails, which they believe will be the next liquor to take the spotlight. “Right now, we’re seeing a lot of bourbon focused drinks, but we really believe that rum is going to be at the forefront of every cocktail menu in the near future,” says Bennett. There are bottles of fifteen, eighteen, and even twenty-year aged rum that can stand out in the culinary and cocktail scene.

The culinary team is constantly working to find new types of seafood that isn’t terribly over-priced. The owners realize that “there are so many kinds of fish,” and many with great flavor and great accessibility that aren’t being sold at the typical restaurant. This is where Kat’s really stands out.

The most popular menu items include Calabasas style fried seafood, steamed crabs, and more. For anyone who doesn’t enjoy seafood, an assortment of non-seafood items are also offered, including classic juicy burgers and grilled chicken sandwiches, as well as fresh salads, loaded tacos, and tasty sides. Every single recipe is original and handmade. From the large scale entrees to the sauces—there are no short cuts.

Special of the day

Those who are looking for a deal should check out the restaurant’s weekly seafood specials. On Monday the feature is all-youcan-eat crab leg. Tuesday the restaurant offers a Maine lobster special, and Wednesday pounds of shrimp can be enjoyed at half off. The quality is never lacking however – food always comes first. Happy hour oysters are on special Monday through Friday from 4 – 6 p.m. When it comes to drinks, owners are two steps ahead, looking at future trends. They’re currently working with a cocktail

The owners continue to make updates to the restaurant. Additional décor and artwork are being installed this month, making the interior a bit more warm and welcoming. The menu will be ever evolving as well with the latest trends, tastes, and local availability driving the creation of new recipes. Kat’s Seafood Kitchen 19708 W. Catawba Ave., Cornelius www.facebook.com/katsseafoodkitchen

www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

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

Wine Down

Enjoy a sip or two with your pooch on the patio!

corkscrewwinepub.com 704.987.0011 | Birkdale Village | 16916 Birkdale Commons Pkwy

Be a part of our bi-monthly Wine & Dine pages by reserving your ad space today.

Email Sharon@LNCurrents.com

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protecting LKN Veterinarians includes

BUSINESS INSURANCE

As Veterinarians are medical doctors, you face many of the same risks and liabilities as any medical profession, making it necessary to purchase sufficient insurance to cover any losses and claims. Let us take this worry away from you so that you can focus on the care of the pets that have been placed in your hands. Here are two types of coverages we highly recommend Veterinarians have for their clinics: PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE: It can be easy to make mistakes around animals that are nervous, scared, or very ill. Professional Liability insurance can help cover you and your clinic by paying for damages and expenses that occur from error or mistake in your professional services. It can help cover claims of negligence, misrepresentation, inaccurate advice, and supposed mistakes. This coverage is also known as Errors and Omissions insurance (E&O). EQUIPMENT COVERAGE: Business equipment, including computers and specialized medical equipment, such as x-ray and ultrasound machines, used for your practice are costly and it is important to have this sophisticated equipment covered in the case of damage or loss where repairs or replacements are needed. Scan this QR Code with your smart phone’s camera to learn more about Business Insurance

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Commercial Lines Manager

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With 17 years of experience Donna has extensive knowledge in the field of Business Insurance. www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

ON THE CIRCUIT

Honor & Celebrate Compiled by Renee Roberson

Events

Field of Flags (July 1-5) The Exchange Club of Mooresville / Lake Norman will honor and celebrate our great nation and the sacrifice of so many. More than 600 American-made American Flags will be displayed on the front lawn of the Lowe’s YMCA. Everyone is invited to visit the Field, walk to rows of flags and show gratitude to those who make our Freedom possible. On July 3rd at 5 p.m., the organization will hold the Field of Flags Ceremony. This will include a bag pipe rendition of Amazing Grace, each branch’s service song, and attendance of local dignitaries. At 6:15, country singer Rockie Lynne, founder of Tribute to the Troops, will perform. The evening will conclude with the impressive fireworks show at 9:15. Lowe’s YMCA, 170 Joe Knox Ave., Mooresville, www.mooresvillelknexchange.org. 4th of July at Birkdale Village (July 4) Grab your red, white and blue crew and join others for a 4th of July celebration! Have the kiddos bring their bikes to decorate before the bike parade around Birkdale Commons Parkway. Following the bike parade, attend a block party in the Grove with magicians, special performers, face painters and more. Free. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Birkdale Village, 8712 Lindholm Drive, Huntersville, www.birkdalevillage.com/events/4th-of-july 4th of July in Downtown Davidson (July 4) Residents are invited to celebrate our nation’s independence with a patriotic stroll along South Street to the town green and a concert on the green at 6 p.m. The parade will include a color guard, a fire engine, and lots of patriotic residents. There will be no fireworks at this event. Free. Downtown Davidson, www.ci.davidson.nc.us/865/4th-of-July. 4th of July at Queens Landing: Enjoy music on the patio (July 2), Fireworks by the lake (July 3 at 9:30 p.m.) and the band Too Much Sylvia at the ampitheater (July 4). See social media accounts for specific times. Queens Landing, 145 River Highway, Mooresville, queenslanding.com. Festival of Food Trucks (July 5) The rally has resumed! Visit Downtown Mooresville for a selection of food trucks. Free. 5-8:30 p.m. Downtown Mooresville, www.downtownmooresville.org 66

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

Pet Adoption Event (July 31) Stop by the store to learn more about the mission of Piedmont Animal Rescue and available pets. Free. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Nest and Bower, 500 S. Main Street, Mooresville, www. facebook.com/nestnbower

Music

Concerts on the Green (July) Enjoy yacht rock with Thurston Howell Band (July 4) and The Legacy Motown (July 18). Free. 6-8 p.m. Town Green, Davidson, www.concertsonthegreen.com. LangTree Live (July) Live music each Thursday. Free. 6-9 p.m. LangTree Lake Norman, 401 Langtree Road, Mooresville, www. facebook.com/LangtreeLKN. LalaCaboosa Downtown Music Series (July) Bring your lawn chairs and blankets out and enjoy live music from Pursey Kerns on July 8 and Thurston Howell Band on July 22. Free. 6-9 p.m. Veterans Park, Main and Maxwell Streets, Huntersville, Huntersville.org.

Family

2nd Friday Street Festival Series (July 9) Enjoy an “America’s Birthday BBQ Bash” themed community celebration with live music, games, vendors and a variety of food and drinks. Free. 6-10 p.m. Oak Street Mill, 19725 Oak Street, Cornelius, www.facebook.com/ oldtowncornelius

Theatre

39 Steps (July 15-25) A man with a boring life meets a woman with a thick accent who says she’s a spy. When he takes her home, she is murdered. Soon, a mysterious organization called “The 39 Steps” is hot on the man’s trail in a nationwide manhunt that climaxes in a death-defying finale. This play was written by Patrick Barlow and is based on the Alfred Hitchcock film. Adults, $20; Seniors, $18; Students, $15. Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. Davidson Community Players, Armour Street Theatre, 307 Armour Street, Davidson, davidsoncommunityplayers.org

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SEEKING PHOTOGRAPHERS

for CURRENTS Magazine for a number of our departments.

If you’d like to receive advertising for your business in exchange for your services, contact editor Renee Roberson at renee@LNCurrents.com to learn more. www.LNCurrents.com | JULY 2021

Wags RENEE WANTS TO KNOW

What’s it like to own a pet boutique?

of Fun

by Renee Roberson Photography by Renee Roberson

Left: Wagamuffins Dog Boutique features everything from treats, home decor and accessories. Right: Owner Megan Meiran.

Have you ever thought to yourself, “I love animals so much I’d love to own a pet store!” Megan Meiran, owner of Wagamuffins Dog Boutique, had that same dream until fate decided she should make it a reality. The Mooresville resident is originally from Pennsylvania and was living with her parents and helping take care of her grandfather while also working a corporate job. About five years ago, Meiran, who owns two female rescue dachshunds, began creating and selling dog bandanas, bows and bow-ties to sell through an Etsy Shop. They quickly grew in popularity. She envisioned what it would be like to own her own storefront. Her grandfather ended up passing away and leaving her a small inheritance, and then she was laid off from her job. She thought to herself, “This may be the time to see if I can make a go of pet boutique business.” This year, the storefront Wagamuffins Dog Boutique turns two. It started out on Main Street in downtown Mooresville but has recently moved to a smaller, more efficient space on North Broad Street. Meiran, who works as the sole employee, sells her homemade dog accessories, treats, harnesses, leashes, as well as a variety of products from at least 20 local vendors from the Charlotte area. All products are made in the USA. 68

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

One of the things she’s most proud of is the way owning and operating her store has allowed her to be an advocate for other pet nonprofits and rescues, hosting them in the store so they can share information with customers. Some of the recent events she’s participated in include a sneaker recycling drive for Save the Clefts Rescue, a donation collection for Lake Norman Humane, a holiday drive for Big Hearts Big Barks and much more. She shares information on fundraising events on the store’s Facebook page for Wagamuffins Dog Boutique and the Instagram page, @ shopwags. The store is pup friendly and she says Saturday is the busiest day. But she loves meeting the pets and their owners when they come in and is happy for any bit of assistance she can offer to help get the word out about all the pet organizations in our area. Meiran also gives a large amount of credit to the Downtown Association of Mooresville for all the support they’ve given her since the very beginning. Up next, she’s already hard at work helping organize the Downtown Mooresville Weiner Race later this fall. Wagamuffins Dog Boutique 176 N. Broad Street, Mooresville www.shopwags.com

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A PET FOR YOU

Happy Tails Rescue, Inc. 704.507.5307 or 828.238.5766 E-mail: happytailsrescueinc@yahoo.com https://happytailsrescueinc.wixsite.com/ https://www.facebook.com/HappyTailsRescueInc Happy Tails Rescue,Inc. is a small nonprofit 501c3 K9 rescue ran by a group of hard working volunteers. They are located in the North Carolina area. They do not have a shelter/facility but utilize foster homes to rovide the care and safety of our rescues. The adoption fee is $300 unless otherwise noted with approved adoption application which includes age appropriate shots, rabies, spay/neuter, micro chip, heart worm test (treated if positive) started on monthly prevention if negative. Dental if needed as well as any other medical necessities. Adoptees also come with goody bag of toys, treats, collar, leash, etc,, and one month (30 days) of free doggie health insurance. These animals are looking for their forever homes . . .

Winnie

Winnie is a 1-year-old female Chihuahua who weighs around 11 pounds. She is dogfriendly and very sweet and spunky. House and crate training are currently in progress.

Trike

Trike is a special needs 7-month-old greyhound puppy mix who was born deaf. He was found injured and had to have his leg amputated but that does not slow him down at all! He is friendly with other dogs and house and crate training are in progress. Note: Puppies are a lot of work, so please be ready for the commitment before filling out an application.

Aruba

Aruba is a 2-year-old female Great Pyrenees. She is shy at first and needs time to warm up to new people in a quiet home. She must be the only dog in the home. Potential adopters must have knowledge of the breed and willing to put in the work and patience to earn her trust. She is crate and house trained. She is not suitable for a townhome, condo or apartment living or in a home with children under the age of 7.

Everest

Everest is a 1-year-old female Formosan Mountain dog/lab mix who is dog friendly, but selective. She is shy but strong willed and house and crate trained. She has received behavioral training and must have an adopter willing to continue the training for success.

Living Well Your local resource for health and wellness services near you Acupuncture Best Acupuncture Deleon Best LAc Tom Cohen LAc Raven Seltzer LAc

8213 Village Harbor Drive Cornelius NC 28031 • 704 655 8298 bestacupuncture.com

Audiology

PHC – Lake Norman Ear, Nose & Throat Megan Mathis-Webb, AuD Susie Riggs, AuD Del L. Hawk, Au.D

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 Sherard Spangler, PA Daniel King, PA-C 357 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-7328

Internal Medicine 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

Oncology

Southern Oncology Specialists William Mitchell, MD Poras Patel, MD

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

Orthopaedic Surgery Iredell Orthopaedic Center Jason Batley, MD

544 Brawley School Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-658-0956

Cardiology

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

Stout Internal Medicine & Wellness Dr. Sam Stout Andrea Colvin, NP

PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint Scott Brandon, MD Brett L. Feldman, MD Alex Seldomridge III, MD Kim Lefreniere, PA-C

444 Williamson Road, Suite B Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-360-9310

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

PHC – Full Circle Family Medicine James W. McNabb, MD Jacqueline Swope, FNP

Neurology

Orthopedic Surgery – Spine

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

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

140 Gateway Blvd. Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638

PHC – Cardiology Jips Zachariah, MD

Dermatology

PHC – Mooresville Dermatology Center Naomi Simon, MD Michael Redmond, MD Kristin Prochaska, PA-C Gina Noble, PA-C Justin Loucks, PA-C 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

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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

Family Medicine Iredell Family Medicine Jodi Stutts, MD Lori Sumner, PA Kristie Smith, MSN, FNP

544 Brawley School Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-360-5190

PHC – Sailview Family Medicine Tiana Losinski, MD

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

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 Amanda Honeychuck, NP Kimberly Whiton, 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 –Northlake Digestive Care Carl A. Foulks, Jr., 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 – Neurology & Sleep Medicine Dharmen S. Shah, MD

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

NeuroSurgery- Spine Iredell NeuroSpine Peter Miller, MD, Ph.D.

544 Brawley School Road 28117 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-954-8277 IredellNeuroSpine.com

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 Coral Bruss, ANP-C

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

Occupational Medicine Iredell Occupational Medicine Joe Wolyniak, DO

653 Bluefield Road, Suite B, Mooresville NC 28117 • 980-444-2630

PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint Alex Seldomridge, III, MD

Physiatry –Interventional Spine Care PHC –Govil Spine & Pain Care Harsh Govil, MD, MPH April Hatfield, FNP-C

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

Primary Care

Iredell Primary Care for Women Eva Imperial, MD, FAAFP

114 Gateway Blvd, Suite B Mooresville, NC 28117 • 980-435-0406

PULMONOLOGY PHC –Pulmonology Enrique Ordaz MD Jose Perez MD Ahmed Elnaggar, MD

125 Days Inn Drive, 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

Iredell Mooresville 653 Bluefield Road, Mooresville NC 28117

Iredell Urgent Care

OPEN 24 HOURS • Suite A • 704-360-6500

Iredell Imaging at Mooresville Suite C • 704-360-6460

Iredell Rehab at Mooresville Suite E • 704-360-6490

Iredell Surgery at Mooresville Suite D • 704-360-6470

Family Care Center of Mooresville Suite F • 704-360-6480

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | JULY 2021

Lake Norman CURRENTS magazine

Articles inside

A Pet for You

On the Circuit

In The Kitchen

Renee Wants to Know

Nibbles + Bites

On Tap

Navigators

Game On

Bet You Didn’t Know

Thoughts from the Man Cave

We’re Just Crazy About

Young Leaders

Cats of Davidson tackles cat population

Blue Ridge Boxer Rescue

Explore new looks for your home