YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL BUTCHER SHOP & MARKET
[SINCE 1978]
For nearly five decades, we’ve proudly served our neighbors with fresh meats, everyday essentials, competitive gas prices, and a friendly smile. Whether you’re firing up the grill, filling your tank, or grabbing your morning coffee, Shop N Save has what you need – right when you need it.
Our main location at 1105 Mecklenburg Highway has been our flagship store for 47 years. The adage of “you can’t judge a book by its cover” applies to Shop N Save Market. Shop with us at our recently added second butcher shop location to see and feel our customer-focused experience and selections.
We offer, among many other items: Expert Butchers – Hand-cut meats, custom orders, and top-quality selections you can trust. Everyday Essentials – Snacks, drinks, household items, and more – fast and convenient. Old-School Local Service – Friendly, local, and here for you since 1978.
Local Products - Produced by local vendors.
Two locations, one great convenience.
1105 Mecklenburg Highway Mooresville, NC 28115
(704)-664-2155
Mon. to Fri. 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Sat. and Sun. 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
356 Morrison Plantation Pky, Suite B1 Mooresville, NC 28117
(980)-447-8077
Tues. to Fri. 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Sat. 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Closed Sun. and Mon.
Shop_N_Save_Markets
Thankful for Family and Friends ...
... but not so much the birdcooking thing
When November rolls around, it’s inevitable that part of our focus turns to the upcoming holidays. Thanksgiving is just on the horizon, and my hope for all of you is that in some form or fashion, you will be able to spend time with those who mean the most to you in celebration of everything in our lives for which we are thankful.
I’m older now – much older – and the arc of Thanksgiving celebrations has taken a mostly predictable path. I’ve gone from childhood shenanigans at the kids’ table (did anyone besides me and my brothers take the black olives off the appetizer plate and make finger puppets out of them while my parents threatened us within an inch of our lives to quit being gross?), to graduating to the adult table (felt a little bit like a coronation in my own pre-teen brain), to the adult tasks of either hosting the meal yourself or bringing a dish and being responsible for the god-awful clean up afterward. As a personal aside, I am on about a 25-year-plus streak of never having to cook the bird and I wear that as a badge of pride. For that alone, I am thankful.
But what I’m more thankful for, especially when November rolls around, are our nation’s veterans who answered the call and stepped up to do something outside of themselves in the service and protection of those whom they’ll never know. It’s a selfless act that almost defies definition and one that deserves to be recognized, even though every veteran I’ve known will tell you that the recognition is almost uncomfortable. I’m the daughter, wife and mother of veterans, so I tell you that based on a lifetime of experience. But recognize them we should, so please take the time to participate in one of the ceremonies and parades that will be held in their honor throughout our Lake Norman towns between Nov. 8 and Nov. 11 this year. You’ll likely meet some amazing and extremely humble men and women recognizing a shared moment among themselves, but who are not looking for thanks or accolades regardless of what they deserve.
We’re also at that point on the calendar, believe it or not, when it’s time to start thinking about next school year if you’d like to have your child enrolled in one of the several fantastic private schools we have in the region. Many enrollment periods open very soon for the 2026-2027 school year, so we have a special section this month featuring just a few options if that is the educational route you’ve chosen for your family. In addition to exceptional academics, each one has its specialized approach to not just its daily curriculum but more broadly how your student learns to interpret, interact with and contribute to the world around them.
Thank you for catching up with us this month – I’m thankful for our readers and the shared love we have for our Lake Norman region. I hope you have the chance to gather around the Thanksgiving table with those who matter to you, and that you’ll pause from life’s craziness for just a few hours on the last Thursday of the month and take in your fill of friends, family, food and fond memories.
— LH Lori Helms Editor Lori@LNCurrents.com
Publisher
MacAdam Smith Mac@LNCurrents.com
Event Coordinator
Sharon Simpson Sharon@LNCurrents.com
Platts social@lncurrents.com Advertising Sales Executives
Beth Packard Beth@LNCurrents.com
Alison Smith Alison@LNCurrents.com
Social Media Specialist
Design & Production idesign2, inc
Contributing Writers
Contributing Writers
Trevor Burton
Kathy Dicken
Mickey Dunaway
Allison Futterman
Vanessa Infanzon
Bek Mitchell-Kidd
Tony Ricciardelli
Tonya R. Woods
Contributing Photogrpahers
Lisa Crates 17039 Kenton Drive, Suite 200 P, Cornelius, NC 28031 Advertising Director
www.facebook.com/LNCurrents
Mooresville’s
For those who appreciate the attraction of an old-fashioned momand-pop market, Shop N Save in Mooresville is the preferred stop for those seeking area sourced quality products including a variety of meats, produce, spices, wines, cheeses, seafood, jams and jellies, and baked goods.
Paul and Margaret Dingler purchased the grocery store/gas station in 1978; the business itself dates to the 1940s. Current owners are Penny Price and her brother Eddie Dingler. Over the years, Shop N Save has ensured the grade of meat they offer is unparalleled; the products are the best available from local farmers and growers.
“You’ll never get a lower grade of meat,” says Price. “All of our meat — poultry, pork and seafood — is 100% organic, and we won’t cut grade, regardless of market trends.” Shop N Save is widely praised for their quality meats, and the quantity of meat and poultry that leaves the store is a testament to value.
“Our customers ask for roughly 3,000 to 4,000 pounds of chicken per week,” says Dingler, “and it’s not uncommon, especially during the fall to go through thousands of pounds of pork, including one or two whole hogs.” The market offers top-quality, generously portioned beef hot dogs made with Shop N Save’s proprietary recipe. They sell about 60,000 hot dogs per year.
“We appreciate the loyalty and support from our customers,” says Price. “We don’t take their patronage lightly.”
Price and Dingler are committed in their efforts to support the community, including local schools, the Boy Scouts and city-spon-
Shop N Save
Now there’s more to love at this long-time favorite
by Tony Ricciardelli
sored venues. They recently donated more than two hundred pounds of meat to the Mooresville Police Department’s “Afternoon Out” community outreach venue; additionally, they’re at the ready to assist when needed.
“One of the restaurants we partner with is Epic Chophouse,” says Dingler. “If they’re in a bind, needing specialty cuts or they find themselves in a challenging situation, we’re here to assist them.”
In addition to the many products found at Shop N Save, the market also offers breakfast fare beginning at 6 a.m., as well as an afternoon menu featuring brisket and barbeque sandwiches, salads and pizza. This past June, Shop N Save opened a smaller 1,500-square-foot location west of Interstate 77. The new market offers the same meat products and services as its main market, as well as a variety of its regularly stocked, locally sourced items.
Store Manager Teresa Reid began working at Shop N Save as a cashier around 1980, when she was 14 years old. Forty-plus years later, she’s grateful for the people she’s come to know, the knowledge she’s gained and the experience she’s garnered in her many roles throughout the decades.
“We’re a family serving people,” she says, “a mom-and-pop shop that has what people want. We’ve been a hidden gem for a long time.”
photography by Lisa Crates
From the finest available meat, poultry and seafood to locally made products, family-owned Shop N Save has it all.
Providing a Helping Paw
Local nonprofit pairs veterans with service dogs
Davidson residents Suzy and Robert Lutz have always loved and worked with dogs. Toward the end of Robert’s 30-year military career, the couple saw an unmet need to help military families transition back to civilian life. Since they understood the impact dogs can have on people, they wanted to give back to the veteran community.
Together, they launched Continuing the Mission (CTM) to provide service dogs at no cost to North Carolina veterans; the non-profit has placed 19 dogs since 2016. Most of the dogs are Labrador Retrievers and come from “By the Sea Labradors,” a breeder in Oregon.
The application process is extensive. Some of the requirements to be considered for an assistance dog include that the applicant receives a diagnosis and ongoing treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and resides in North Carolina to ensure continued training and support of the dog. A two- to three-year wait is standard in the service dog industry.
“We are currently running a wait time of about a year,” says Suzy. “As a small grassroots organization, we can only produce two to four service dogs per year. Once they are paired with their recipients, we also provide ongoing training and support for the lifetime of the dog.” It’s a unique training model that is constantly evolving.
“Our service dog trainer, Tracy Crotts, helps to develop an individualized plan for each dog as they progress,” she says. The immersion training ensures that the dogs are continuously in a social setting, being exposed to as many different aspects of life as possible.
Some of the skills the dogs are trained to perform include “front” — standing in front of you and between other people in a nonthreatening manner; “interrupt” — using a nose bump to interrupt anxious behaviors and emotional outbursts, and “lights” — turning lights on to interrupt nightmares or provide a sense of well-being when returning to a dark home.
“We also look for opportunities for our dogs to give back throughout their two-year training period by participating in numerous events that support CTM veterans and the wider veteran community,” Suzy says.
CTM is operated by a team of dedicated volunteers, with one paid full-time and two paid part-time employees who ensure the dogs are cared for and trained while assisting with the organization’s communications and day-to-day operations. The non-profit is also always on the lookout for “weekend puppy raisers,” who play an integral role in the training and development of the dogs, and volunteers to help with fundraising.
“We appreciate the Lake Norman community very much,” Suzy says. “Any amount, regardless of how much, will help us to care for and train a service dog for a veteran. If you would like to welcome a puppy into your heart and home on some weekends, we would love to have you!”
by Bek Mitchell-Kidd photographs courtesy Continuing the Mission
Left: Scout and Matt taking a break from training during pairing week.
Right: Tanner demonstrating the “Center” task. This task is also used to help people feel more comfortable in public. Photo by Nathan Nunn. Nathan is a local student and long time volunteer of CTM.
A Family Affair with Flare
The VanWingerdens bring color to the holidays
When it comes to Christmas, the preferred decoration is a Christmas tree (or two). However, for decades, poinsettias have given the “O Christmas Tree” a run for its money. With the holidays approaching, Metrolina Greenhouses is meeting the demands of this seasonal perennial.
“We sell poinsettias to four million consumers,” says Abe VanWingerden, Co-CEO of Metrolina Greenhouses. Though their harvest of poinsettias is a “one time” crop, that doesn’t diminish its popularity. “That’s four million customers buying one plant, not just one customer buying 5,000.” It is this kind of demand that makes Metrolina Greenhouses a leader in its industry.
The VanWingerden family owns and operates Metrolina Greenhouses headquartered in Huntersville. In 1971, Tom and
Vickie VanWingerden journeyed from the Netherlands to establish the company. Starting with a 20,000-square-foot greenhouse, a year later the family grew the business into more than 208 acres of indoor greenhouse space and 30 acres of outdoor growing space. Today, brothers Abe and Art VanWingerden serve as Co-CEOs, continuing their father’s legacy with a commitment to automation.
“Our dad was really big into automation from a facility and job-related side,” says Abe, for tasks such as using a transplanter to automatically move plants from small pots to bigger pots for continued growth.
It is through this type of mechanization, along with the use of tasks, data and sustainability, that Metrolina Greenhouses is able to meet the demand of all its yuletide offerings, including Christmas cactuses,
by Tonya R.
holiday greens (for wreaths, boughs and garland) and holiday pansies. Just the same, it’s the poinsettia taking center stage as the favored plant of the season.
While it is nearly the only plant most people purchase for Christmas, Abe says Metrolina Greenhouses ships poinsettias to 1,400 stores on the east coast to their suppliers – big box names such as Home Depot, Walmart, Lowe’s and Sam’s.
Surprisingly, red isn’t the only color for a poinsettia, though it is the most desired by far.
“Red is about 80% of what we do,” says Art. “What you see as yellow we call white and that’s about 10-12%, and then roughly there’s 8%
novelty.” For an alternate look with a unique flair, the white poinsettias are sprayed with blue or purple plant paint.
In addition to its Huntersville facility, Metrolina Greenhouses has approximately 200 acres of outdoor growing space and 14 greenhouses in York, South Carolina. When asked about the family dynamic of the company, the VanWingerden brothers hold similar sentiments.
“I love working with and getting along with my family,” Art says. “For me, it’s the greatest joy.”
Woods photography courtesy Metrolina Greenhouses
Just a fraction of the millions of poinsettias Metrolina Greenhouses will sell over the next few months.
Stretching Her Wings
Local student reaches new heights
by Bek Mitchell-Kidd
photographs courtesy Katie Milligan
Rowan Milligan, a senior at Lincoln Charter School, can now add pilot to her long list of accomplishments. She is also captain of the varsity women’s tennis team and studies an AP courseload, including dual enrollment at Gaston College. To put it bluntly, Rowan’s flight pattern is full.
“Having the patience to balance everything is hard, but as long as you take it slow with breaks here and there, it can be done,” she says. “Always do some research before diving into a new skill. There are always different routes you can take, and you want to choose the one that you can balance with the life you already have, instead of pushing other important stuff to the side.”
Rowan’s mother, Katie Milligan, also got her private pilot’s license when she was in high school. After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy, she went on to flight school in Corpus Christi, Texas, and then flew a P-3C Orion, which is a maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft. Katie retired from the Navy as a Commander in 2018.
“My parents and brother inspired me to get my pilot’s license,” Rowan says. “They are all pilots but never pushed learning to fly on me just because they do it; instead, they showed me the joy of it and the community that surrounds it. They have been very supportive throughout the whole process.”
Rowan performed all her training using an Avions Pierre Robin R2160, a unique French training aircraft, owned by their Long Island Airpark (Sherrills Ford) neighbor, Lee Smith; there are only six in North America.
“The majority of her landings and training were then done at Statesville Regional Airport and the surrounding area,” says Rowan’s mother.
“Her flight instructor was Sophie Williams, another neighbor who also learned in this community and now flies for Victory Air.”
As a fully licensed private pilot, Rowan can fly alone or with others. The Federal Aviation Administration requirements to obtain a private pilot certificate include being at least 17 years of age, 40 hours of flight instruction and solo flight time, passing a knowledge test and a practical (flight) test, and more.
“Flying is a very liberating and fun activity,” Rowan says. “Being up in the airplane gives me the ability to go places that can be too time-consuming to travel to on the ground, and see the country from a unique perspective. I think the best part is that it is just fun to do!”
Rowan’s parents are proud of her dedication and perseverance during her training. “Having to balance her schoolwork, tennis practice and matches, a part-time job, as well as a personal life, all while studying and flying every week, was rewarding to watch,” says Katie, and Rowan agrees.
“Flying has taught me to push myself to always be a better example for people, and it has taught me to have confidence in myself, which helps me support and encourage my peers to be better. I started small by thinking I was only going to get my private pilot’s license, but the more I flew, the more I realized it’s what I want to do forever.”
Right: Rowan’s instructor, Sofie Lutz, captures one of her early flights, with Lake Norman in the distance.
Left: Rowan and her flight instructor after her first solo flight. It is a tradition to cut off the back of a student’s shirt after their first solo.
Middle: Rowan’s mother, Katie Milligan (left), was her first passenger, flying over Lake Norman.
School Choice
Lake Norman has options for every student’s needs
Looking for the best educational opportunities for your child? Look no further. Award-winning public, charter and private schools provide considerable and diverse choices throughout the Lake Norman area, as families can select from schools that emphasize the arts and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), as well as Montessori and faith-based-curriculums. Area high schools offer International Baccalaureate programs, Advanced Placement courses and many other options, and Huntersville is now home to Aspire Trade High School, the first model of its kind in North Carolina to offer an industry-specific trade school curriculum.
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools offers many public elementary and middle schools in addition to three high schools in the area — Hopewell and North Mecklenburg in Huntersville and William Amos Hough in Cornelius. North Mecklenburg is noted for its award-winning magnet program as well as its International Baccalaureate offerings, while Hopewell provides a comprehensive curriculum including the internationally recognized Cambridge Diploma Program. All three schools offer extensive Advanced Placement courses.
The Mooresville Graded School District provides another public school option. The district is known nationally for its comprehensive digital plan, resulting in every child receiving a device for his/her use. It also has a notable Naval Junior ROTC program, considered one of the best in the Southeast.
Also serving the Lake Norman area are some of the Iredell-Statesville Schools. Lake Norman High School in Mooresville offers Advanced Placement as well as Honors courses. Some area elementary and
middle schools also are regularly named Honor Schools of Excellence or Schools of Excellence.
For other public options, families can consider charter schools –tuition-free options that use a lottery system for enrollment when all available slots have been filled, and for which tax dollars provide some of the funding. In some cases, parents must provide transportation and meals. According to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, charter schools are defined as “public schools of choice operated by independent non-profit boards of directors. Charter schools operate under a charter which must be authorized by the state and which grants greater flexibility than traditional public district schools in areas such as curriculum, programming, and staffing. State and local tax dollars are the primary funding sources for charter schools. ... While charter schools operate with additional flexibility and freedom from regulations, they are accountable through the state assessment and accountability system.”
Private schools offer faith-based and secular choices for families. Because of the continued growth in the Lake Norman area, school offerings change and grow each year as schools open, relocate and add additional grades and facilities. In this month’s issue, you’ll learn about just a few of the local private school options available, and the programming and curriculum that just might speak to your student.
Regardless of the path you choose for your child — public, charter or private — the schools in our region have something to offer every family’s interests, desired educational emphasis and learning environment preferences.
Compiled by staff reports
Character matters.
Preschool – 12th Grade
Choosing a Private School
There are many benefits to enrolling your child in a private school--from small class sizes to stimulating and personalized academic environments. Read on to learn how some of our area’s private schools are changing the face of education and how you can get involved.
9:1 Student - Teacher Ratio Over with
Woodlawn School
Nurturing Independent, Lifelong Learners
At Woodlawn School, we cultivate independent, lifelong learners who become responsible, contributing members of a diverse global society. Our commitment to authentic, purposeful education prepares students for lives of meaning and impact in our interconnected world.
The Woodlawn Way
We’re the only school in the region dedicated to studentcentered, hands-on, integrated project-based learning. Through real-world projects that spark curiosity and wonder, students develop critical thinking and creativity while discovering meaningful connections across disciplines. Our learn by doing philosophy nurtures natural curiosity and builds confidence to embrace new challenges with enthusiasm.
Student-driven experiences honor each learner’s unique interests and goals. With our intentionally small 8:1 student-to-teacher ratio, every student is valued, known, and empowered to take ownership of their educational journey. This personalized approach cultivates the intrinsic motivation essential for lifelong learning.
Our expansive 61-acre campus serves as an extended classroom where outdoor learning creates unforgettable moments of discovery. Students develop environmental stewardship, resilience, and deep connection to the natural world while building teamwork and adaptability. Service learning connects academic knowledge with meaningful community engagement, helping students understand the world around them. Students apply their skills
to address real needs, developing empathy and recognizing their capacity to make positive contributions to society. We provide rigorous academics with all upper school classes at the Honors level plus AP course offerings. Equally important is social-emotional growth through our Responsive Classroom environment and Life Skills program, which emphasizes empathy, kindness, teamwork, respect, and honesty. Upper school students engage in collaborative problem-solving and strategic communication development, skills that prepare them for success.
Intellectual curiosity and joyful learning harmonize seamlessly at Woodlawn. We offer middle and upper school athletics, including soccer, volleyball, cross country, track and field, basketball, and swim, plus clubs, electives, and
activities where students pursue their passions and develop leadership skills.
Join Our Community
Our application process creates opportunities for families to get to know us through campus tours and classroom experiences. Parents complete an online application while students shadow their grade level, allowing us to assess academic strengths and ensure a strong fit.
Annual Tuition:
• Early Childhood: $19,100
• Kindergarten: $22,975
• Grades 1-5: $23,300
• Grades 6-8: $23,800
• Grades 9-12: $24,950
135 Woodlawn School Loop Mooresville, NC 28115
704.895.8653 www.woodlawnschool.org
Lake Norman Christian School
Teaching, Transforming and Serving
AAt Lake Norman Christian School, our learning environment is a unique blend of strong Christian values and high academic standards. What truly sets us apart is the family-like atmosphere we cultivate, where students are known and cared for personally by our dedicated and nurturing teachers. Our visionary administration is focused on continuously elevating the educational experience with a forwardthinking approach, ensuring that students are not only prepared academically but also spiritually and emotionally for their futures.
With smaller class sizes – our student-to-teacher ratio is 8:1 – our students receive more individualized attention, fostering
deep relationships and stronger connections with both peers and staff. We also prioritize creating meaningful student experiences, from engaging in community service to participating in dynamic extracurricular activities.
Parental involvement plays a crucial role in our school culture, contributing to a supportive and collaborative environment that enriches both student learning and community bonds.
We offer several special programs designed to enrich our students’ educational experience. One standout is our dual enrollment program, which allows high school students to earn college credits while still in high school, giving them a head start on their college journey. We also have a robust fine arts
program, offering opportunities in music, theater and visual arts, where students can explore their creativity and develop their talents. Additionally, we provide a wide range of extracurricular activities, including competitive athletics and student-led clubs, giving students opportunities to develop leadership skills and pursue their passions outside the classroom. We are also deeply committed to spiritual development, with a focus on integrating Christian values into every aspect of the school day, through chapel services, Bible classes and mission opportunities, allowing students to grow in their faith while excelling academically.
Our curriculum is designed to challenge students while aligning
with a Christian worldview, instilling values that prepare them to excel in all aspects of life. This combination of faith, academics and community makes Lake Norman Christian a place where students can grow, thrive and be empowered to impact the world around them.
The application process, once initiated online, includes a campus visit, submission of relevant documents and academic records, and a family interview. Tuition is $11,660 for grades K-5, $12,640 for grades 6-8 and $13,360 for grades 9-12.
14101 Stumptown Road Huntersville, NC 28078
704.987.9811 www.lknc.org
Grace Covenant Academy
Learning through a Biblical worldview
Grace Covenant Academy is celebrating its 25th year of educating children in the Lake Norman area. Our vision is for our students — from their early education years all the way through 12th grade — and staff to live out God’s plans for their lives by fulfilling His purposes, using their God-given talents and abilities, and following the callings He has placed upon their lives.
Grace Covenant Academy is a Christ-centered school partnering with families to equip students with excellent
education and effective integration of Biblical truth. We approach all learning through a Biblical worldview, integrating Christ into every subject. Our school is a place where our students are cared for and known.
With a student-to-teacher ratio of 9:1 and a total student body of 330 students, individualized attention is a hallmark at Grace Covenant Academy. Our middle school athletic program is growing. Current sports offered are: soccer, basketball, cross-country, baseball, flag football, track, volleyball and
cheerleading. High school is a hybrid model that combines in person instruction and online course instruction through Liberty University, allowing a student-customized schedule. Additionally, a variety of quarterly after-school clubs are offered to students.
Online applications are now available for the 2026-27 school year (3yrs. – 12th grade). The application process includes an educational assessment, a “shadow day” (for first grade and older) and a family interview.
Tuition ranges from $3,340 for a three-day program for the youngest students up to $10,600 for middle and high school students.
17301 Statesville Road
Cornelius, NC 28031
704.892.5601
www.gracecovenantacademy.org academy@gracecovenant.org
GraceCovenantAcademy.org 704-892-5601
17301 Statesville Road
Cornelius, NC 28031
Davidson Day School
Leading with Our CORE Values
At Davidson Day School, an independent school serving students from early childhood through grade 12, we believe education is most powerful when it is personal, purposeful and rooted in community.
Our Mission: Together, we empower students to embrace challenge, live with character, and lead with purpose. This mission comes to life through our C.O.R.E. values: Courage: We face challenges with integrity, speak up for what is right, and step boldly into new experiences.
Ownership: We take responsibility for our learning, our actions, and the impact we have on our community.
Resilience: We persevere through adversity with resourcefulness, learning from setbacks to grow stronger. Empathy: We seek to understand others with compassion and commit ourselves to acts of kindness and service.
With an 8:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an average class size of 13, Davidson Day provides an individualized experience where each student is known, supported, and inspired to achieve their best.
Academic Journey:
Academic excellence begins in Early Childhood, where play-based learning builds foundational skills. In Lower School, hands-on learning
strengthens literacy, math, and critical thinking. Middle School challenges students to think independently while developing confidence and character. In Upper School, rigorous coursework — including more than 20 Advanced Placement and elective options — prepares students for college and beyond.
Beyond the Classroom:
Athletics, arts, and global learning are integral to a Davidson Day education. Our student-athletes have earned 37 team state championships and 37 individual state titles, while our arts programs cultivate creativity and expression. Through our international research program, students in grades 7–12 can engage in
archaeological fieldwork and cultural site preservation around the world.
Our admissions process includes a tour, application, interview, transcripts, teacher recommendations, and an assessment. Tuition ranges from $21,620 for Early Preschool to $25,750 for Upper School.
750 Jetton Street
Davidson, NC 28036
704.237.5229
davidsonday.org
Facebook: facebook.com/ DavidsonDaySchool
Instagram: @DavidsonDaySchool
X: @DavidsonDay
Cannon School A Relationship-Driven Journey of Growth
Established in 1969, Cannon School is a nationally accredited, independent, coeducational college preparatory school serving students from junior kindergarten through grade 12. Our mission is to nurture relationships at the heart of learning and engage the learner in a journey of growth, all the while envisioning a world of wholehearted and adaptive contributors.
Cannon doesn’t just teach facts; it cultivates the ability to apply knowledge flexibly in new contexts. Adaptive expertise is one of the school’s core foundational approaches to learning. This is practiced in the Lower School through
Adaptive Expertise Days, project-based learning and cross-curricular connections. At the Middle School level, there are advisory programs, class trips and makerspaces that let students learn resilience and creative problem-solving. In the Upper School, students can benefit from Advanced Placement (AP) and Advanced Topics (AT) courses, Capstone projects and experiential learning such as BioREX, which pushes students to think like innovators and researchers rather than rote test-takers.
Relational teaching is also at Cannon School’s core, where teachers intentionally cultivate the ABC of Relational Teaching – Autonomy,
Belonging and Confidence. This framework means students experience school not as a series of transactions, but as a relationship-driven journey where belonging fuels growth and confidence drives achievement.
Beyond the classroom, Cannon School students thrive in a wide array of co-curricular opportunities such as arts, athletics, robotics, e-sports, service learning, global travel and leadership councils. Each reinforces our mission of nurturing relationships and developing the whole child.
The application process can vary by grade, but once initiated online, could include
submitting relevant documents and school records, a day visit to the campus, a dean interview/meeting and a writing sample. Tuition is $20,530 for junior kindergarten; $21,340 for kindergarten; $24,960 for grades 1-4; $28,580 for grades 5-8; and $30,690 for grades 9-12. Applications received by Jan. 15, 2026 are considered in the first round, with decisions released March 1.
5801 Poplar Tent Road Concord, NC 28027
704.786.8171
www.cannonschool.org
Spread Love READ BOOKS
Christmas in Davidson will take place nightly from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Thursday, December 4; Friday, December 5; and Saturday, December 6, 2025.
The 43rd Annual North Mecklenburg Holiday Parade will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.
Jeff Hamm has called Lake Norman home for about 15 years. His move here from the Washington, D.C., area was prompted by his parents retiring to the Charlotte area. It turned out to be a natural fit for him, and he loves the region and all it has to offer. He also has an immense amount of knowledge when it comes to the towns that comprise Lake Norman — which he puts to good use in his work.
Hamm is a successful digital marketing expert, primarily in the real estate space. He uses his marketing know-how to help other agents produce content for YouTube, newsletters, social media, podcasts and SEO website development. He’s also a real estate (referral) agent whose area of focus is connecting buyers and sellers with highly qualified local agents who can best fit their needs.
As if that weren’t impressive enough, Hamm is the creator and producer of the podcast The Best of LKN. Each episode focuses on a local small business or nonprofit that’s worth knowing about. Started in 2020, during the pandemic, Hamm’s original goal was to “give small business owners a platform to chat about their journey,” he says.
There was a lot of fear at that time, with many businesses having no choice but to close. Business owners were uncertain about how
Spreading theWord
Lake Norman podcaster highlights best in the area
by Allison Futterman courtesy Sloane Adler and LKNimages.com
they would move forward. The podcast gave them an opportunity to share the entrepreneurial story behind their business. Hamm also spotlighted local organizations. The objective was to raise spirits and take people’s minds off all the stress they were experiencing at the
Participants in one of several networking events for small businesses hosted by Jeff Hamm and The Best of LKN podcast.
time. He didn’t know if the podcast endeavor would be temporary or develop into something long term.
It was well received by the community and has only continued to gain in popularity. Five years later, The Best of LKN includes more than 350 episodes. Hamm has interviewed a wide range of
guests from many different types of businesses. These have included restaurants and bars, financial services, health and wellness, food and drink, home design, home improvement, the arts, fashion, boating and other things lake related, cars, real estate and much more.
Also notable is the attention Hamm gives to nonprofit organizations. By featuring local nonprofits, he gives the founders an opportunity to share their own compelling stories. Undoubtedly, these organizations have been able to reach more people due to their elevated profile from their podcast participation.
While there have now been many popular small businesses, influential people and entrepreneurs featured on the podcast, getting it off the ground was a new experience for Hamm. He took it from an idea to a reality through a self-guided process. Teaching himself, he learned through online research, watching many tutorials and reading a variety of blog articles about podcasting. Over the years, he adjusted his process a bit, evolving into the well-oiled machine it now is.
Although the podcast has provided attention to those who have been guests, Hamm says it’s actually he who “has been lifted up by the people who have shared their stories.” He’s found it rewarding to get to know them. “It’s really been an honor to host a platform for them.”
Check out Jeff Hamm’s podcast at www.thebestoflkn.com.
PODCAST
Hamm is a successful digital marketing expert, particularly in the real estate industry.
A Balanced Home Market
WITH SURGING VALUES IN THE LAKE NORMAN AREA
As we move deeper into fall, the Lake Norman housing market is showing signs of balance after several years of rapid change. Inventory has continued to rise, giving buyers more options and sellers a bit more competition. Compared to this time last year, active listings across the region are up roughly 10–12%, signaling a healthy increase in available homes.
Homes are taking slightly longer to sell, with days on market averaging in the mid-40s—about 40% higher than last fall. This shift points to a calmer, more deliberate market where serious buyers can take the time to explore their options.
Pricing has remained steady, with the average sale-to-list price ratio hovering around 97%. While bidding wars are less common than in years past, well-maintained and competitively priced homes are still selling quickly, often within the first few weeks.
For sellers, preparation and pricing strategy remain key to standing out. For buyers, this is a window of opportunity—more choices, less pressure, and room to negotiate.
Overall, the Lake Norman market continues to show resilience, supported by strong demand for lake living and lifestyle-driven moves. As we close out the year, all signs point to a steady, sustainable market heading into 2026.
Christy Walker
Christy Walker (704)
439-5300
Christy@ChristyWalker.com
ChristyWalker.com
Santa at Birkdale Village
Nov
– Dec
48 Hours
in Abingdon
A holiday escape to Virginia’s Wolf Hills
by
Historic buildings, shops, restaurants, art galleries and pocket parks along Main Street’s bricked sidewalks make Abingdon, Virginia, an idyllic town for a weekend getaway. Daniel Boone is said to have explored the area in the mid-1700s, naming it Wolf Hills, after his dogs were attacked by a pack of wolves. Abingdon embraced this legend; you’ll find lupine art and sculptures across the town.
The Abingdon community celebrates the holiday season by dressing up the town in lights and scheduling special activities. A 48-hour retreat in a magical place, only three hours from Lake Norman, may be just the treat you need during this winter holiday.
Friday
Check in at The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, or “The Martha” for those in the know. The historic estate boasts 63 rooms and suites,
in a building originally built in 1832 for the Preston family. By 1858, the property had been sold and established as Martha Washington College, a women’s school until 1932, when the college closed. After an extensive renovation, the property became The Martha Washington Inn. The hotel offers 90-minute private tours for a fee; ask at the front desk for details.
Spend the afternoon exploring Abingdon’s art galleries and gift, thrift and antique shops. The Arts Depot, housed in an old train station, features six studios – meet the artists, see them work and ask questions. Holston Mountain Artisans and Antiques is an artisan co-operative with 115 members. Wander through the displays of jewelry, paintings, pottery and woodwork. Grab a drink and afternoon snack in Abingdon Commons, a marketplace with shops and eateries such as Semolina Neapolitan Pizzeria and Tumbling Creek Cider Company.
Vanessa Infanzon | photography courtesy Rick Hamm Photography and The Martha Washington Inn & Spa
Spice crusted Scottish salmon at Abingdon’s Rain restaurant.
Riding the Virginia Creeper Trail.
Enjoy one of the luxurious rooms at The Martha Washington Inn & Spa, or indulge in one of its spa services (left).
The Arts Depot resides in an old Abingdon train station.
Make reservations at Sister’s American Grill, The Martha’s restaurant. Order the baked brie with candied pecans, Granny Smith apple slices, toast and blackberry jam for a starter. Specials may include fried wild catfish, shrimp and grits, and red snapper with jasmine rice and red beans in a Cajun cream sauce. Note the artwork by Tony Smith, along the hallway into the dining room.
Every evening between 8 and 11 p.m., hotel staff serve port, a sweet red dessert wine, to guests. Relax in front of the library’s fireplace. Wine and other drinks are available from the front desk or Sister’s bar.
Saturday
After breakfast at Sister’s – included with overnight accommodations – walk to the Abingdon Farmer’s Market. Local vendors sell handmade items such as baked goods, crafts, jewelry, woodwork and wreaths from 8 a.m. to noon, year-round.
Although the William King Museum of Art (WKMA) is under construction, it’s open to the public. The new wing, opening in spring 2026, will feature two galleries, a café, a gift shop and an amphitheater. WKMA offers classes such as Cookie Cutter Ornaments, Laser Cut Acrylic Ornaments and exhibits its permanent collection and rotating exhibitions. “Salvador Dali: Les Chants de Maldoror” is on display through Feb. 15, 2026.
Dwayne & Co., a bar and restaurant owned by Abingdon’s Mayor Dwayne Anderson, is the spot for a pre-dinner cocktail. Art is curated by a local artist, and desserts are made in-house. Wood floors, green velvet bar chairs and wood floors make this old house hum. Pro Tip: Take advantage of The Martha’s free shuttle to local restaurants.
Step across the street to Rain, a restaurant open since 2010, with an artsy vibe. From baked oysters to spice crusted Scottish salmon with a pineapple rum glaze, this dinner will be memorable. Make your way to the Barter Theatre. Holiday performances include “Jingle All the Way,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and “The Innkeeper’s Wife.”
Sunday
After breakfast, cruise along the Virginia Creeper Trail, a 16-mile biking and hiking trail from Abingdon to Damascus. The trail is walkable from The Martha. The inn rents bicycles and arranges for pickup and drop-off for a fee. You do not need to be a guest of the inn to use this service.
Before heading home, try lunch at Greeko’s Grill & Café; table service and drive-through are available. Warm pita and fresh hummus with a bowl of avgolemono — house made Greek lemon chicken soup with carrots, garlic, onion, celery and orzo — will fortify you for the trip home.
gHoliday Cheer in Abingdon
Visit Abingdon during one of its seasonal events:
• The Mistletoe Market, the region’s largest holiday shopping event, is Nov. 7-9 at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. Ticket sales benefit the William King Museum of Art. www.williamkingmuseum. org/mistletoe-market
• Each year, from mid-November to early January, Abingdon commemorates the season with the Festival of Trees. About 30 holiday trees adorn the businesses and streets in downtown.
• On Nov. 22, Santa makes an appearance at The Lighting of the Trees at the Abingdon Visitor Center. Abingdon Merchants’ Holiday Open House takes place on the same day.
• More than 100 floats, marching bands and performers participate in the Christmas Parade at 6 p.m. on Dec. 6.
Learn more at www.visitabingdonvirginia.com.
Guest room at the Martha Washington Inn & Spa.
Dwellings
How We Live at the Lake
A once less-than-functional primary bath gets a big, bold remodel. Photography
Vintage Vibe
by
Lori Helms | photography by Heather Ison Photography
The bathroom’s centerpiece - an oversized black cast iron clawfoot tub - is beautifully framed by arched details.
to
A
Sara and David Self had thought they’d found themselves their dream home. It’s a description that means different things to different people, so for the Selfs, it meant a home with some acreage in a more rural-adjacent area of a bustling suburb, and absolutely none of the intrusiveness and entanglements of a homeowners association – no small feat in Huntersville.
“But the house itself was lacking,” says CoCreative Interiors founder and principal designer Misty Molloy. Even a dream home can have one or two drawbacks that keep it from absolute perfection, and for the Self’s home, it was the primary bathroom. Molloy says it was an addition by a previous owner to a home that originally had three bedrooms and only one bath.
While the footprint of the space was generous (Molloy says it’s close to 200 square feet), she says it just didn’t function properly within that space. There was a corner shower, an odd corner closet with no light source, an unnecessary soffit over the vanity and a bathtub far too small for David’s towering frame. Compounding the awkwardness of the space, the lovely arched detail leading into the bathroom had no door. That’s right, no door on a bathroom.
“Overall, there was not enough storage, it was not visually appealing, and it needed much better functionality given the size of the space,” Molloy says. So, she got to work on Sara’s ideas for a completely renovated primary bath, which at its core is what Molloy describes as a kind of vintage vibe.
The homeowner wanted to combine hues of blue with black (“not the easiest color combination to put together,” says Molloy) with floral patterns featuring pops of pink. Molloy solved that riddle by using a Thibaut wallcovering called Pasadena, with large floral designs using bold colors – something Sara was more than willing to try. Molloy continued to lean on the use of pink with the geometric patterned wallcovering in the WC, and pulled in the black courtesy of an impressive six-foot long black cast iron clawfoot tub by Kingston Brass.
“Sara told me baths are very important to her,” says Molloy. It’s like her relaxation time to unplug from her busy life as a business owner
(she and her husband are the power couple behind David Self Family Law & Mediation in Cornelius), wife and mom to two young boys.
“It’s like her decompression area.” The tub now acts as an anchor to the primary bath’s vast space and sits beautifully framed by an arched window. In addition, the previously all-glass shower was built up to create a little more privacy, and was redone to include a shower wand system the Selfs could use to wash their large dogs.
Another complete transformation of the space involves the vanity area. Molloy had the mostly useless corner closet removed all together, replacing everything along that wall with 12 feet of custom-made vanity flanked on each end with pantry-style cabinet for tons of storage. The black pearl granite vanity counter has a honed or leathered finish. Molloy says it’s a great way to take a material that’s cost effective and make it feel more upscale, while also modernizing the look a bit. The vanity drawers have docking systems with outlets for hairstyling tools that will automatically shut off for safety after a determined amount of time.
To warm up the room aesthetically, Molloy chose rattan-framed mirrors by Uttermost and a massive rattan chandelier from Made Goods for the vaulted ceiling. Molloy says considering proportions was a key aspect to successfully remodeling such a large space, not to mention the designing courage of Sara and David.
“I love doing colorful stuff that is unexpected,” she says. “It’s so fun to find clients that are willing to push the envelope a little bit when it comes to design.”
Top
bottom:
12-foot wide vanity space provides ample storage; a framed TV sits at the foot of the clawfoot tub for a bit of relaxation; Molloy used a geometric-patterned wallpaper to play up the pink wanted by the homeowner.
Discover The Gifts You Bring to Work
Work is a broad term that applies to almost every part of our lives, even beyond what we formally refer to as jobs. Most of our waking hours involve some kind of work. Because my company has given me such wonderful training over the years, one of the most important things I’ve learned was to find my “Working Genius.”
There are six types of Geniuses: Wonder, Discernment, Enablement, Invention, Galvanizing and Tenacity. The Genius of Galvanizing is about rallying and motivating people. That’s me! And then there is the Genius of Invention which is about coming up with novel ideas and solutions to solve problems and address issues. That’s me, too!
Each of us have the God-given ability to get joy and energy from two of those types of work. And because we love that kind of work, we usually gravitate toward it and are pretty good at it. We’re meant to use these gifts, what we call our
geniuses, to contribute to the world around us. Learning to find your Working Genius can help you better understand your frustrations when dealing with people who don’t have the attributes of “your” Working Genius. The six types of Working Genius assessment is a great tool to understand how to thrive with your peers at work and even your friends and family. Learn more at www.workinggenius.com.
Jamie Ottinger, Owner of Express Employment Professionals, Mooresville NC
704.662.6685
www.expresspros.com/ MooresvilleNC
Limitless
For the area’s 55+ adults who place no limits on living their best lives!
Fishing with a friendthere’s nothing like it.
Friend andFishermaa
A few days before I sat down at my iMac to put pixel to paper for this column, I was clearing out some DVDs from a shelf in my office. Nothing interesting in that, I agree, until it became very interesting. Ironically, I must have had 50 DVDs on that shelf, but no DVD player to play them on! Why did I let them take up valuable shelf space? As recently as a few years ago, I had a humdinger of a 3D DVD player. Can’t remember what happened to it. Streaming is my best guess, and 3D for home viewing died away.
After feeling a bit foolish, I found a computer CD in a brown wrinkled mailing envelope. I had opened it at one time but didn’t recall its contents. However, when I saw the return address, I became sentimental, as it was from Jim Mattingly in Owensboro, Kentucky. Jim and I had worked together in the Owensboro Public Schools. When I opened the khaki-colored mailing envelope, I found an orange CD that Jim had sent at least 10 years before. Our address on the envelope was at least that old. Why had I kept it for so long? I could not remember, but I knew, sadly, whatever I found would be tainted with sadness because Jim had passed away in 2022.
I hauled out a used stand-alone Apple CD player that I could connect to my iMac and find out what Jim had sent me.
Once the CD player was attached and the CD inserted, I found only one file — a 60-page document titled “Fishing with Ben.” I knew Ben was Jim’s older brother. And then I remembered why I had kept the CD over the years.
I led the Department of Instruction as Deputy Superintendent from 1997 to 2002 in Owensboro, Kentucky — a school system of 5,000 in a town of 50,000. Jim was one of the principals who reported to me, but he became much more than that. He grew into a dear friend who was never intimidated by our different positions.
Jim was a born fisherman and as good a school leader as I ever met. Today, I treasure the times I went to his school. Jim was a teacher
by Mickey Dunaway
of teachers and might be out among his teachers and kids when I arrived. So, I would just go ahead and sit down in his office, because behind his desk was a mount of a giant rainbow trout that I never tired of admiring. His state record trout weighed 14 pounds, 6 ounces; caught Sept. 10, 1972, in the Cumberland River tailwaters. His state record still stands after 53 years!
For all our talking about fishing, Jim and I only fished together twice. Jim, his son Paul, and I once caught a cooler of crappie in Rough River. The other time, Jim took me to a flooded coal pit of the kind that I had often read about in fishing magazines. The water was as black as the coal that had come out of that pit, and the bass were the darkest green I have ever seen on a largemouth.
After Jim retired as an Owensboro Principal, he led the Catholic Diocese Schools as Superintendent. Although the Diocesan headquarters were in Owensboro, the diocese extended from Bowling Green to Paducah and encompassed most towns in between. After a trip to one of his outlying schools, Jim would email me about stopping and fishing a creek on his way back home.
Jim was, above all, a family man. While Jim worked his way up in the profession, he never lost sight of his family. While I moved from district to district and state to state during my years in my profession, Jim put emphasis on his family, and he lived it out in Owensboro. Jim revered his older brother, for whom his tribute (Fishing with Ben) was written. Ben, a guide on the Cumberland River, died early from cancer, yet he published a book, My Father’s Waters
My friend and colleague left this world far too early in 2022 at age 69 from the early onset of Alzheimer’s.
My Father’s Waters sits prominently in my office, and next to it is that priceless CD I found that day. And though I never met Ben or Jim’s father, I felt the impact he had on their love and respect for the outdoors. My father was like that.
Jim Mattingly and his record-setting trout.
John Powderly, MD Neel Gandhi, MD Sherene Banawan, PA-C
•
•
•
•
Maginness Executive Director
Don’t Let Your Legacy Disappear: Protecting Your Original Will
You finally got around to making a Will. Now you can breathe easy knowing that the hardest part is over, but don’t check estate planning off your to-do list just yet. Do you have a safe place to store the original? In North Carolina, your original, signed Will is what the probate court requires after your death. A photocopy usually isn’t enough. If the original cannot be found, the law of our state presumes that the person who signed the Will revoked it, even if they didn’t. The only way to overcome this presumption and be able to probate a copy of the Will, is to offer the court sufficient evidence to show the Will was lost, not revoked. This can be time-consuming and result in additional legal expenses. Often, there simply is no explanation whatsoever about how the Will went missing. If this presumption cannot be overcome, your property could end up being distributed as if you didn’t have a Will, and the state default inheritance rules apply.
This situation happens quite frequently. Wills get misplaced during moves, accidentally thrown out or left in a safe deposit box no one can access. Families often don’t realize there’s a problem until it’s too late.
The good news is that it’s easy to prevent. Keep your Will in a clearly labeled, fire-safe location, and let your executor or trusted family member know exactly where it’s stored. Avoid hiding it in places that are hard to reach or easy to overlook. And be cautious about putting it in a bank safe deposit box unless someone else has authorized access after your death.
A few simple steps today can spare your loved ones confusion, legal expense and heartache later. After all, your Will can only speak for you if it can be found.
Amy Shue Isaacs is an Estate Administration & Probate Attorney with The McIntosh Law Firm, P.C. Contact her at 704.892.1699 or visit www. mcintoshlawfirm.com/ attorneys/amy-shue-isaacs/.
Audiology
Living Well
Your local resource for health and wellness services near you
PHC – Lake Norman Ears, Nose & Throat
Megan Mathis-Webb, AuD
Susie Riggs, AuD
Caroline Millsaps, AuD
140 Gateway Blvd. Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638
Cardiology
PHC – Heart & Vascular
Jips Zachariah, MD
Naveed Rajper, MD 359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829
Dermatology
PHC – Mooresville Dermatology
Center
Naomi Simon, MD
Kristin Prochaska, PA-C
Gina Noble, PA-C
Julia Parsons, PA-C
Susan Stevens, RN, BSN 128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1827
PHC- Lake Norman Dermatology
Joel Sugarman, MD FAAD
Allison Hanley, PA-C
Melissa Moser, PA-C
Betsy Benton, PA-C
140 Leaning Oak Drive, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117
704-658-9730
PHC – Wolfe Dermatology
Steven F. Wolfe, MD
Molly Small, PA-C 114 Gateway Blvd., Unit D Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-663-2085
Riva Dermatology
“Imagine your skin at its Best!”
General Dermatology for the Family, Botox, Fillers, Laser/IPL & more
Kerry Shafran, MD, FAAD
Lindsay Jayson, MPAS, PA-C
Erin Dice, MPAS, PA-C
Ashley Noone, MPAP, PA-C
Nikki Leahy, MSBS, PA-C
Mari Klos, CMA, LME 704-896-8837
Cornelius, Mooresville, Denver www.Rivaderm.com
Ears, Nose and Throat
PHC – Lake Norman Ears, Nose, & Throat
Keith Meetze, MD
Thomas Warren, MD
Herb Wettreich, MD
Fred New, Jr., ANP 140 Gateway Blvd. Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638
Endocrinology
PHC- Endocrinology
Elaine Sunderlin, MD
Emylee Brown, PA-C
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
Bruce L. Seaton, DO
Amanda H. Bailey, DO
Kyle Babinski, DO
Bilal Khan, DO
Sherard Spangler, PA
357 Williamson Road
Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-7328
PHC – Sailview Family Medicine
Tiana Losinski, MD
Alexander Watson, DNP
206 Joe V. Knox Ave. Suite J Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-360-4801
PHC – Fairview Family Medicine
Golnar Lashgari, MD
Erica Vollano, FNP-BC
146 Medical Park Road, Suite 210 Mooresville, NC 28117 •704-235-0300
PHC - Troutman Family Medicine
Amrish C. Patel, MD
Janeal Bowers, FNP
Kimberly Whiton, FNP
Jeanne Pierce, PA-C
154 S Main Troutman, NC 28166 • 704-528-9903
Gastroenterology
PHC – Gastroenterology
Brandon Marion, MD
Aerielle Sibert, PA-C
359 Williamson Road
Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-878-2021
PHC –Comprehensive Digestive
Care Center
Vivek Trivedi, MD
Venu Gangireddy, MD
Tiedre Palmer, FNP-C
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-878-2021
PHC- Gastroenterology
Laila Menon, MD
Gabrielle Miller, PA-C
170 Medical Park Road, Floor 3 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506
Internal Medicine
PHC – Fox Internal Medicine
Jessica Fox, DO
Stephanie Michel, PA-C
435 East Statesville Avenue
Mooresville, NC 28115 • 704-663-5056
PHC – Internal Medicine & Weight Management
Manish G. Patel, MD
Julie Abney, PA
Andrea Brock, PA-C
128 Medical Park Road, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-658-1001
PHC – Lake Norman Internal Medicine
John C. Gatlin, MD
Swathi Talla, MD
548 Williamson Road, Suite 6 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-660-5520
Mental Health Services
PHC-Mastor Mental Health
Jason E. Mastor, MD
Kristin C. Brown, PA-C
Megan I. Flott, PA-C
Diana J. Remenar, PA-C
206 Joe V. Knox Ave. Suite F Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-662-6500
Neurology
PHC – Neurology & Sleep Medicine
Dharmen S. Shah, MD
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-873-1100
PHC – Lake Norman Neurology
Andrew J. Braunstein, DO
Ryan Conrad, MD
Craig D. DuBois, MD
Roderick Elias, MD
124 Professional Park Dr, Ste A Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-662-3077
PHC – Lake Norman Neurology
Andrew J. Braunstein, DO
Ryan Conrad, MD
Craig D. DuBois, MD
Roderick Elias, MD
9735 Kincey Avenue, Ste 203 Huntersville, NC 28078 • 704-766-9050
Obstetrics/Gynecology
PHC – Lake Norman OB/GYN
James Al-Hussaini, MD
Laura Arigo, MD
Grant Miller, MD
James Wilson, MD
Nicole S. Wellbaum, MD
NailaRashida Frye, MD
Krisandra Edwards, FNP-C
Alyssa Clay, DNP, FNP-C
131 Medical Park Road, Suite 102 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-663-1282
Oncology
Southern Oncology Specialists
William Mitchell, MD
Poras Patel, MD
46 Medical Park Rd, Suite 212 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-659-7850
Orthopaedic Surgery
PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint
Brett L. Feldman, MD
Alex Seldomridge III, MD
Travis Eason, MD
Julie Glener, MD
Kim Lefreniere, PA-C
359 Williamson Road
Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829
Orthopedic Surgery – Spine
PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint
Alex Seldomridge, III, MD
359 Williamson Road
Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1838
Pain Managment
PHC – Pain & Spine Center
Harsh Govil, MD, MPH
Nathan Barkley, FNP-C
Samuel Sackenheim, NP-C
April Hatfield, FNP-C
Gracie Kern, PA-C
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829
Physical Medicine & Rehab
PHC - Spine & Sports Medicine
John Lesher, MD, MPH
170 Medical Park Road, Suite 302 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506
PULMONOLOGY
PHC –Pulmonology
Enrique Ordaz MD
Jose Perez MD
Ahmed Elnaggar, MD
Vishal Patel, MD
170 Medical Park Road, Suite 201, Mooresville NC 28117 • 704-838-8240
Rheumatology
PHC – Rheumatology
Sean M. Fahey, MD
Dijana Christianson, DO
Janice Clayton, FNP-C
128 Medical Park Road, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-658-1001
‘People Over Profit’ Keeping the grocery run in the family
Robbie Dye is the co-owner of Little Mountain Farm & Cattle Co., a family-owned farm and direct-to-consumer beef business located in Sherrills Ford.
Shipping nationwide to more than 3,000 families, the farm produces products from pasture-raised, well-loved cattle, including everything from tallow and filet mignon to boneless ribeye steak and burger patties.
“I have been really enjoying the ‘Denver Steak’ as of late… and no, it has nothing to do with Denver, N.C,” says Dye. “It is a beautiful cut from the chuck section that is highly marbled, very rich in beef flavor, and when cooked perfectly, it will melt in your mouth.”
The business is a family affair with Dye’s wife, Ashley, managing the administration and finances, their kids (who balance homeschool and farm duties, including cleaning the farm equipment and organizing the freezers), and Dye’s parents, Jeremy and Georgina, who handle much of the farm work.
“When we purchased the land in North Carolina, we truly didn’t set out to build something that would turn into what it’s become today; a premium farm-to-table meat company that is delivering our meats all over the country to consumers and serving some of Lake Norman’s finest restaurants, including Peninsula Prime Seafood & Steak House, Local Roots & Provisions, Neighbors 828 Artisan Kitchen and other great partners,” he says.
Dye is passionate about improving the food system and increasing consumer access to farm-raised foods; he is also the Co-Founder and CEO of “Our Farms,” a community-based grocery platform, aiming to reshape the way consumers buy food, directly sourced from family farms across America.
Our Farms considers itself at the intersection of food and human connection. The goal is a more connected food system where farmers can thrive, and consumers shop with confidence and trust.
“When you shop at Our Farms, a minimum of 85 cents of every dollar goes back to the farmer,” Dye says. “When you buy a product in a grocery store, farmers on average capture less than 13 cents on the dollar … we are completely flipping the economics for family farms.”
Our Farms currently has more than 1,000 food products that can be shipped directly from a farm to your doorstep within days; think rice, pasta, meat, snacks, fruit, dairy and more.
“We are aiming for a holistic grocery shopping experience where a family can buy all of their groceries from family farms,” he says.
“When you buy from a family farm, you’re standing behind a way of life that values care over scale, consistency over convenience, and people over profit. You’re helping preserve something that doesn’t fit neatly into a spreadsheet but means everything to the families who live it every day.”
Left, Robbie Dye and family are the power behind Little Mountain Farm & Cattle as well as the e-commerce platform Our Farms. Right, a small selection of what’s available online through Our Farms.
The Best of British Cuisine
A London restaurant does not disappoint
by
Recently, I found myself in London, just for an evening. An evening in London was like a trip down memory lane for me. As a young lad, I used to walk along the embankment of the River Thames to undergraduate classes at King’s College on the Strand — I had discovered the rear entrance. Off in distance was the OXO Tower, a river landmark, even then.
A little history ... advertising rules had put a real damper on skyline ads along the River Thames. The architect of the tower designed windows shaped like the letters “OXO.” (OXO was famous for its beef flavored bouillon cubes). The architect’s work cleverly sidestepped the advertising ban while putting the brand front and center. From then on, the tower was called the “OXO Tower.”
That’s just a bit of London history mixed with a hint of nostalgia. But what interested me, this time around, was the OXO Tower had become home to a restaurant with spectacular views. From the top level of the tower, there are exceptional views of the river, the London skyline and King’s College in the distance. I decided that duty called and that I must make a reservation for dinner at the restaurant.
The restaurant has a theme; British food. Not meat pies and such as you’d find in a British pub, but dishes made from British ingredients that the executive chef has had his or her way with. Ingredients include langoustines, caught off the Scottish Isle of Skye, and crabmeat
from the Isle of Portland in the English Channel. I was in for a totally British meal.
I drew a line in the sand when it came to wine. Britain has some vineyards along its southern coast, but I was in the mood for a glass of Rosé. So, the safest thing to do was hop over the Channel and rely on the French for wine. So, I did.
Glass of wine safely in hand, I perused the menu. I settled on a starter of that crabmeat from the Isle of Portland in the English Channel. For the main course, I was tempted by the monkfish from Cornwall. I was in the mood for something with some “oomph” to it, but the wine yelled out, “seafood.” Monkfish is sometimes compared to lobster. It’s the “meatiest” of seafood. So, monkfish seemed appropriate. I went for it.
Each dish was delicious. Thank you, executive chef. And, yes, the views were spectacular — especially the view of the dome of Saint Paul’s Cathedral. And the distant view of King’s College wasn’t bad, either.
If you’re visiting the city of London or if you, like me, are looking for something worthwhile to do for dinner, keep the OXO Tower in mind. Get a table on the deck, outside. The dishes are all memorable and the views from your dinner table are views like no other place in the city. Your tastebuds and your line of sight will thank you.
Trevor Burton food photography by Trevor Burton
Monkfish from Cornwall.
Perfect Meal for a Chilly Evening
by Kathy Dicken
Tuscan Sausage and Lentil Skillet
Craving a cozy, one-pot meal packed with protein and fiber? Look no further than this Tuscan Sausage and Lentil Skillet. This dish is the ultimate comfort food — perfect for chilly evenings. Hearty lentils, savory sausage and earthy greens come together in a gluten-free, satisfying bowl that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this meal is the perfect hug-in-a-bowl, offering a warm, stick-to-yourbones kind of comfort you’ll want to enjoy all season long.
Servings: 4-5
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 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:
3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
12 oz. beef smoked sausage (or chicken sausage), sliced thin
1 small fennel bulb, cored and diced
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 large carrots, sliced into thin rounds
4 garlic cloves, minced
4 Tbsp. tomato paste
1-1/2 cups dry green or brown lentils
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
4 cups (1 bunch) kale, stems removed/ thinly sliced (or fresh spinach)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Heat 1 Tbsp. olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.
Add remaining 2 Tbsp. olive oil, along with fennel, onion and carrots. Cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and garlic, stirring enough to coat the vegetables. Continue to cook, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Add lentils, broth, rosemary, salt and pepper; bring mixture to a boil. Add the sausage back to the skillet and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover and cook until the lentils are softened, about 45 minutes. Remove lid and stir in kale. Cook, covered, until the greens are wilted, about 2 more minutes. Top with grated cheese and serve.
Notes:
Reduce cooking time by using precooked lentils (I have used Trader Joe’s Lentils) and reducing broth to 1.5 cups.
photography by Kathy Dicken
Lilly & Grace
At her Langtree shop, interior design business and boutique owner Robyn Ford tells me the entire enterprise is a true family affair.
“When people buy from Lilly & Grace, they get our whole team,” she says.
I can attest to the truth in that statement. When I first met Ford, I watched as her husband was helping a client load a piece of art into the back of her SUV. When he wasn’t doing that, he was helping Ford and their daughter return the shop’s offerings and decorations to its “normal” aesthetic following the frenzied holiday shopping season. It’s that package deal, that true customer commitment, that has earned them the recognition of our 2025 Lake Norman’s Best Readers Choice Award winner for “Best Interior Designer.”
With the sheer volume of interior designers in our area, that’s not a designation to be taken lightly. Lilly & Grace is an entirely family owned and operated business, and Ford believes it’s that family feel that keeps her clients coming back – for just one more piece of art, just one more sofa table accessory, just one more room to be redecorated.
“I think that gives everyone a good feeling,” says Ford. “They trust us, we’re local ... they know we’re not going anywhere.”
Since opening Lilly & Grace more than four years ago, she says most of her customers have become repeat clients, whether they are building a new home, remodeling a room or needing some new furniture or lighting.
Ford believes it’s the honesty with which she treats her design clients that keeps them coming back for more – to buy a trinket as a special gift or outfit an entire new home or anything in between. She says it’s critical to be very clear about what the expectations are for design, budget and timing, and likens the relationship between designer and client to a marriage.
“You’re stuck with me, because we’re going to be spending so much time together,” she says, adding that being candid with each other is critical to developing a level of trust for the duration of the design project. And that hard work and honesty pays off, she says.
“They all start off as clients, and they end up as friends.”
By Lori Helms Photography courtesy Lilly & Grace
