Lake Norman CURRENTS magazine

SERVING LAKE NORMAN

DECEMBER 2021

A Christmas Cocktail

Gifts for beer lovers

The Mooresville Public Library

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Special Section: Your Financial Questions Answered

Let us help you turn your dream home into a reality!

As we fall into the holiday season, the fluctuation in interest rates has started to concern the general public and for good reason!

As you look at the landscape of the industry and our economy, everything is pointing to interest rates continuing to increase sooner rather than later. Such increases will make it harder to qualify for that new home. It also makes that new home more expensive to own, and it can reduce the benefits one receives from refinancing their home (s).

105 Landings Drive, Suite 205, Mooresville, NC 28117 2

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

888-526-1079

We are successful, experienced Loan Officers and Industry Veterans with decades of combined experience in the realm of real estate and financing.

As a company headquartered here in the Langtree Complex of Lake Norman, please know that we have you covered, as we have great relationships with a plethora of different investors to meet all your mortgage needs.

Though you shouldn’t wait around for the proverbial “I told you so”, so if you are thinking of putting that offer in on a new home or you are thinking of taking advantage of the newfound equity in your home. DO IT! You never know what tomorrow will bring, especially in a whirl wind industry like this.

Our seasoned staff of professionals are here no matter what your scenario is: 1st time homebuyers, we have you covered!

Needing that JUMBO mortgage for your dream lake home? We can handle that too!

Bad credit? NO PROBLEM! Looking to take advantage of an investment opportunity while interest rates remain low? Yes, we can take care of you too! This isn’t your local bank, we are not a one trick pony, so please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or to voice a need! That’s why we walk in the door every day, to help people like you out with the biggest asset you will probably ever own! Let LKN Capital show you how to make your money go further for you!

We can’t forget that we have entered that time of year. The time TO GIVE! With holidays right around the corner, we hope everyone reading this article has an amazing holiday season with your families and your loved ones. LKN Capital Mortgage is all

about giving back to the community, and we know that we have been very blessed in our careers. With that being said, we will be partnering with a couple of local organizations, to make sure we are giving back to families and children who are currently less fortunate that us.

As we should always look out for our fellow man/woman, we all know this time of year can be AMAZING or it can be HARD, so we hope you join us in sharing our love and appreciation for the ones who need our attention, our assistance, and our resources to make this time of year as AMAZING as it possibly can be. Let’s end this year with positive progression as we look forward to the future together!

Let us help you Purchase your new home, Refinance your existing home atwww.LNCurrents.com a better interest rate, or2021 even3get cash | DECEMBER

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

D rs . m iChael C oleman anD m iChael F oran Through the Generations...

Wisdom Teeth | IV Sedation | Computer Guided Dental Implants Call our office today to schedule your initial consultation Drs. Coleman & Foran 19910 North Cove Road Cornelius / 704-892-1198 carolinaoms.com www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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FROM WHERE I SIT

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

Publisher

Gifts from the Heart Our attic is filled with toys from Christmases past. I guarantee you, ten years from now, we’ll be sorting through the plastic storage bins trying to figure out what to keep in case our kids want keepsake toys for their own children. They will have to choose from My Little Pony characters, a whole pile of metal vehicles from the “Cars” franchise, plastic Little People sets complete with the auto garage, barnyard and nativity set, plastic musical instruments, and of course, Thomas the Tank Engine trains and wooden railroad tracks.

MacAdam Smith Mac@LNCurrents.com

Advertising Director Sharon Simpson Sharon@LNCurrents.com

Advertising Sales Executives

These days, gift giving looks a lot different. Our kids have moved into the teen years and one of them is a legal adult now. My son requests things like tickets to see his favorite NBA team, The Charlotte Hornets, and maybe a few new hoodies and an Xbox game, and our daughter would be happy with gift cards to places like her favorite bookstore so she can shop for herself. Last year, she received a six-month membership that gave her access to online writing courses she could work through on her own. That was a hit. And then there’s my husband, who every year, insists, “I don’t need anything. We should spend that money on the kids!”

I’ve started to become more interested in offering experiential gifts within our own family. One year we combined a trip to visit my family with a few days in San Antonio, Texas, where we strolled along the River Walk, visited The Alamo and Tower of the Americas, shopped, and ate way too much Mexican food. We also stayed in a hotel that was decorated with a vintage 1960s motif, so that was fun. Another time we stayed local and bought tickets to a Carolina Panthers game on Christmas Eve. Once we took an overnight trip on New Year’s Eve to Asheville to tour The Biltmore Estate all decked out in holiday decorations, and of course it decided to start sleeting as we were riding in the bus that was transporting us up the curvy mountain road to the estate. This year we’re still deciding on if we’ll take a road trip to somewhere we’ve never been before in lieu of the usual gifts, but it will be a new and unique experience no matter what we do.

But there is something to say for picking up unique gifts you won’t find anywhere but in the small, independent businesses that fill our area. Maybe you need something for a beloved coach, teacher, or family member. Perhaps you want to bring a host gift to a holiday gathering. For those moments, I researched some fun ideas right here in LKN for this month’s “Renee Wants to Know” column on page 72. Stay safe and enjoy this time with your loved ones.

Happy Holidays!

Editor Renee@LNCurrents.com

Do you have a special love story you’d like to share with our readers for the February issue? E-mail me at Renee@LNCurrents.com with the details for consideration.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Carole Lambert Carole@LNCurrents.com

Beth Packard Beth@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 John Buckner Trevor Burton Allison Futterman Karel Bond Lucander Grace Kennedy Bek Mitchell-Kidd Tony Ricciardelli Mike Savicki Abigail Smathers Allie Spencer Lara Tumer

Contributing Photographers Jon Beyerle Jamie Cowles Lisa Crates

www.facebook.com/LNCurrents www.twitter.com/LNCurrents

E XC L U S I V E L Y AT

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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Contents

About the Cover: Season’s Greetings from CURRENTS Magazine!

44

28 CHANNEL MARKERS

LAKE SPACES How we live at the lake

Movers, shakers and more at the lake

17

Visit Miracle on Main for festive cocktails

18

For the Long Run Mooresville Public Library

20

Festin Bakery at Davidson Farmers Market

22

Live Like a Native ‘ Tis the Season at the Lake

FEATURES In Every Issue

28 Thoughts from

the Man Cave

Fun National Holidays

50 Navigators

April Cook of The Lake Norman Community Health Clinic

24

Bet You Didn’t Know Christmas in Davidson

25

We’re Just Crazy About

Global gifts at The Marketplace

26

The KellyMichaellaCo Etsy shop

68 On the Circuit

A month of things to do on the lake

What kinds of gifts can I find locally?

A Restorative Renovation at the lake

47 IN THIS ISSUE 27 Your Best Life

The latest on COVID-19 booster shots

31 Ask the Expert

DINE + WINE

Finances

Eating, drinking, cooking and fun

36 Community Helpers:

Cornelius residents help family from Afghanistan

44

Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday

43

72 Renee Wants to Know

47 Dwellings

60 Wine Time

Sip sparkling wine this season

62 On Tap

Gifts for the beer enthusiast

64 In The Kitchen

Chocolate pudding

66 Nibbles + Bites

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 12

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.

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

A family atmosphere at Cabbella’s Coffee

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.

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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! s a m t s i r h C y r Mer Enjoy time with your family

Protect Your Family and Assets With a Comprehensive Plan Of Insurance Coverage Thank You for Trusting Us to Protect You and Your Loved Ones Every Day of the Year

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Dennis Long 139 East Broad Street, Statesville, NC 28677 (704) 871-8002

Leyda Martinez 7505 NC-73 F, Denver, NC 28037 (704) 768-2002

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AUTO | BUSINESS | FARM | HOME | LIFE | RETIREMENT Products underwritten Nationwide Mutual CURRENTS Insurance Company and Affiliated2021 Companies. Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. Life insurance is issued by Nationwide Life Insurance Company or Nationwide Life and Annuity 16 byLAKE NORMAN | DECEMBER Insurance Company, Columbus, Ohio. Nationwide, Nationwide Is On Your Side, and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. ©2018 Nationwide CPC-0435AO (09/17) 7248517

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

Cheer-ful Cocktails

Left: Brittany Loring greets patrons, while Seamus Caffrey enjoys the Miracle on Main decor.

Mooresville’s Miracle on Main pop

up bar promises a signature celebration 158 on Main is decking the halls and donating to a good cause through the month of December. The cocktail bar is excited to be one of three North Carolina establishments to be selected for the coveted Miracle on Main pop-up event (with one location in Charlotte and one in Asheville), which launched in late November and will run during business hours through Dec. 30. This will be the eighth year of the event, with a specially designed, holiday-themed cocktail menu that will be served exclusively at all participating locations, historically across 90 countries.

The libations will be completely holiday-themed, with seasonal flavors and a few returning favorites from years past. The cocktail vessels also play a huge role in the event, with unique mugs and signature glassware that will be available for purchase exclusively at Miracle on Main locations. New this year on the menu is the Elfing Around cocktail as well as freshly updated and renewed recipes for the Jolly Koala, On Dasher, and SanTaRex. Classic Miracle cocktail favorites back for the season include the Christmapolitan, Christmas Carol Barrel, Pajama Party, Snowball Old-Fashioned, and more.

While the pop-up event is centered around the drinks, the décor is not to be missed. “The 158 on Main team has been working tirelessly, hanging over 3,000 ornaments from the ceiling and wrapping every inch of the walls in festive wrapping paper,” says Tara Johnson, the restaurant’s marketing lead. A soundtrack of holiday songs

by Lara Tumer photography by Lisa Crates

sets the scene for the festive setting and they’re excited to see Lake Norman locals and visitors alike toasting to memories and merriment. The event is expected to bring over 1,000 people to downtown Mooresville throughout the month, something the city is truly delighted about.

In an effort to give back this holiday season, 10 percent of all sales will be donated to the James Beard Foundation Open for Good campaign to aid the relief efforts of independent restaurants. The restaurant will also be hosting a slew of specialty events like Tiki Christmas, Christmas Music Bingo, Cowboy Christmas (listen to country covers of Christmas classics), Tacky Christmas Sweater competitions, Christmas Movie Trivia, and Blue Christmas (Elvis Rock ‘n Roll themed). Check out the restaurant’s social media for a complete list of events with dates and times.

Owners of 158 on Main urge patrons stopping by Miracle on Main to also check out their newest establishment, Dive Bar, just downstairs. The bar will feature arcade games, pool, darts, and of course a solid drink menu that fits the dive bar theme.

Miracle on Main 158 on Main, 158 N. Main Street, Mooresville www.158onmain.com and www.miraclepopup.com www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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CHANNEL MARKERS - for the long run

More Books, More Programs, More Everything A little history about the Mooresville Public Library

by Karel Bond Lucander photography by Renee Roberson

When Mooresville was incorporated in 1873 with a population of 25, the citizens formed a lending library from the private book collections of wealthy residents. By the 1880s, it became a subscription service, and in 1899 the town hired its first librarian.

Between 1908 and 1910, the “Mooresville Free Library” was in town hall and books were available at no charge.

By the 1930s, the library moved several times before Mrs. LuTelle (Sherrill) Williams helped construct the first library building at 304 South Main Street. “That’s when the name changed to Mooresville Public Library, and we’ve occupied that site ever since,” says Andy Poore, curator of local history and archives at the library.

The original library would have contained about 1,000 books and now has more than 90,000. And thanks to a generous donation from Lowe’s Home Improvement, in 2005 the library expanded from 4,000 to 34,000 square feet.

One notable attraction is its local history and archives department, which includes extensive genealogy research materials and an incredible photo collection. “All roads don’t lead to Rome, all roads lead through or to North Carolina,” Poore says with a chuckle.

A place for all ages At the turn of the 20th century, middle-class Mooresville citizens went to the library for leisure learning. “Joe working in the mill as shift supervisor now had time to spend at ballgames and the library,” Poore says. Today, there are even more reasons to head there.

Mooresville Public Library Director Marian Lytle says a team of specialists works together to plan interesting and educational 18

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Researchers can access local history documents and books, genealogical books and family papers, archives and more at the library’s archives.

programs. As a result of community feedback, watch for more family inclusive programming and online opportunities.

“Our online resources can assist people in developing their job skills and lifelong learning,” she says. “We offer free courses to help people prepare for their GRE and learn foreign languages.

There are courses about how to be a better supervisor and budgeting for personal and professional use.”

MPL can help with that As the town’s main information hub, library associates can provide business forms and tax documents, help veterans obtain their DD214 forms, and guide new residents in utilizing town services. They work closely with Iredell schools and can help students apply virtually for library cards. Chances are if you have questions that need answers, they can help.

Hidden gem of Mooresville The Mooresville Public Library is a great place to stop and feed your soul. It’s the portal, the doorway, to the world beyond. And you don’t have to come with a purpose.

“Just come see us,” Lytle says. “We want you to be comfortable and safe – and we’re here to serve. You can also see us online.”

And coming soon: A new branch is slated to open in late summer 2022 at 614 Brawley School Road.

Mooresville Public Library 413 North Main Street, Mooresville www.mooresvillelibrary.org 704.664.2927

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CHANNEL MARKERS

Food for

Thought

Matt Baum’s Festin Bakery Rises in Davidson

by John Buckner photography by Renee Roberson

I found chocolate babka at the Davidson Farmers Market and knew I had to talk to the baker. Matt Baum baked the babka at his Festin Bakery (Festin means “feast” in French), flooding me with memories of Zabar’s on the West side of Manhattan. If you don’t know, a babka is a sweet, braided bread or cake which originated in the Jewish communities of Poland and Ukraine. I had a Pavlovian response with my taste buds tingling when I saw the babka. Food creates conversations. We want to know who made it and where they are from.

Baum’s baking repertoire stems from being raised among the bakeries of New York. His father is Jewish. His mother is Italian.

If you have been into the neighborhoods in the boroughs of New York City, or Long Island, where Baum grew up, you will notice family-owned bakeries on every block. The Jewish bakeries will have Challah bread (which is routinely purchased on Fridays prior to the Saturday Sabbath), sour-dough bagels and onion rolls, and of course, my favorite, babka bread. Italian bakeries have long cylinder-shaped Italian loaves, ready for dipping in olive oil, plus varieties of Italian tarts, cakes, and cookies. Baum grew up with these traditions.

It was when Baum visited France as a home stay international student that his baking ethics took shape. He was a French major at St. John’s University (along with Political Science) and got around easily. The bakeries in Paris fresh-baked their items by hand every day with local ingredients, using a slower fermentation process to naturally leaven the bread. All of a sudden, Baum’s gluten sensitivity evaporated. He became convinced that natural leavening versus using commercial yeast was friendlier on the stomach and his health in general.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Top: The mouth-watering babka from Festin Bakery.

Below: Matt Baum and his wife settled into Davidson from New York.

After graduating from college, Baum tucked away everything he was learning and set it aside to work in a non-profit in New York City, but the baking bug wouldn’t leave him. After a few years, he got an Apprentice Baker’s job at Breads (www.breadsbakery. com), the noted NYC Bakery with a cult-like following. “At Breads, I learned the craft,” Baum says. “They have the facilities, the training, and the kind of loyal clientele that really molded me. I got a culinary education on the job.” Breads was a terrific place, but New York can be hard, and during the midst of the pandemic, he knew it was time to leave.

He and his wife came south, settling in Davidson. The Davidson Farmers Market has proven to be more than just an effective test market for Matt’s Festin Bakery. “We have sold out every week since February 2021. I am taking the time to get to know people.

The community has really bought in to my style and we believe in this community,” says Baum.

Davidson Farmers Market Holiday Market Located next to Town Hall between Main & Jackson Streets in Davidson Dec. 11 and 18 | 9 a.m.-noon www.davidsonfarmersmarket.org

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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CHANNEL MARKERS - live like a native

‘Tis the Season

Left: Santa has arrived in Birkdale Village.

Above: The North Mecklenburg Community Chorus.

compiled by Bek Mitchell-Kidd

The lake area is shining bright this holiday season. Don’t miss out on the many ways to celebrate.

Highway 115 and ends in Cornelius at the intersection of Highway 115 and Catawba Avenue. Free. 1 p.m. www.ci.davidson.nc.us

Santa’s Mailbox (Through Dec. 10). Bring your letter for Santa and send it on an express journey to the North Pole. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope and Santa will write you back.

Free. 19725 Oak St, Cornelius. www.cainarts.org

Christmas in Huntersville & The Holiday Market (Dec. 3-4) The downtown tree lighting takes place on Friday night. Enjoy rides, shop local vendors and more. Free. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Huntersville, www.huntersville.org

Photos with Santa (Through Dec. 24) Get your photo taken with Santa while you shop for the perfect gift. See website for a list of available times. Birkdale Village, 8712 Lindholm Drive, Huntersville, www.birkdalevillage.net

Christmas Bells are Ringing! (Dec. 7 and 14) The North Mecklenburg Community Chorus performs joyful arrangements of the holiday season. Free. 7:30 p.m. Huntersville United Methodist Church, 14005 Stumptown Road., Huntersville, www.nmccsings.org

Holiday Light Show (Through Dec. 31) The annually awesome Holiday Light Spectacular is an orchestrated light show that includes over 175,000 lights set to music. Free. Show begins at 5:30 p.m. Town Hall lawn, 413 N. Main Street, Mooresville, www.downtownmooresville.com Christmas in Davidson (Dec. 2-4) Celebrate on the town green with food vendors and Christmas crafts – many made by local artists. Free. 6-9 p.m. www.christmasindavidson.com Cocoa with Santa (Dec. 3) Enjoy an exciting morning filled with photo opportunities with Santa, holiday crafts, cookies, and cocoa. Don’t forget to bring your camera! Free. 10 a.m.-noon.

19725 Oak St, Cornelius. Register at www.cainarts.org 39th Annual North Mecklenburg Holiday Parade (Dec. 4) The parade starts in Davidson at the intersection of Griffith Street and 22

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Classic Christmas in Downtown Mooresville (Dec. 10) Expect Santa visits, Victorian carolers, ice skating, a petting zoo, unique shopping and dining, hot cocoa, popcorn, cotton candy, crafts and s’mores. Free. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Mooresville, www.downtownmooresville.com The Northern Lights of Lake Norman Boat Parade (Dec. 11) Register your boat to participate now and make a donation to Tunnel to Towers and Home Hope of Mooresville.

Route is yet to be confirmed. 5-7 p.m., www.facebook.com/ northernlightsoflakenorman Huntersville Half Marathon & Holiday 5k (Dec. 11-12) The popular race starts at Birkdale Village and this year includes a 2-day event with more options for locals to run the roads they love, www.huntersvillehalf.com.

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CHANNEL MARKERS - bet you didn’t know

The Origins of Christmas in Davidson

by Abigail Smathers photo courtesy of Facebook

The biggest small-town festival you’ve ever seen

In 1988, the Town of Davidson came together over a vision whose legacy would span more than three decades—a vision that would enrich the lives of locals, empower neighborhood merchants, and spread cheer throughout the community.

It started with a simple concept: keeping shops open later for a few nights during the holiday season to accommodate the increase in shoppers’ demands. According to a 1998 issue of the Lake Norman Times, Irene Blackwell, town committee member and founder of The Village Store on Main Street, saw a major opportunity for her hometown to grow. As Davidson’s commercial and economic development were on the rise, Blackwell and her fellow committee members racked their brains to come up with ways that they could capitalize on the impending boom. Thus, Christmas in Davidson was born.

Early iterations of the event ran for 12 days and included activities such as visits from Santa, ugly Christmas sweater contests, and storytime with Mrs. Claus. It snowballed from there, tacking on more festivities and drawing exponentially larger crowds with each passing year. Today, the event has evolved into a community cornerstone, attracting more than 30,000 visitors annually.

Naturally, an undertaking of this size requires a great deal of work, so preparations usually begin in August. Christmas in Davidson is staffed by over 1,000 volunteers, many of whom have

worked the event for over a decade. The affair is so grandiose, in fact, that businesses’ books can change from red to green in just one weekend.

For its 33rd year, Christmas in Davidson will be returning to its roots with a simpler, more traditional approach. Covid restrictions have limited the scale of this year’s attractions, so the planning team has done its best to incorporate new, socially-distanced attractions, and move existing festivities to the web.

“We knew that we wanted to try to have Christmas in Davidson this year as a way for people to gather safely and for the community to come together,” says Kim Fleming, Economic Development Director for the Town of Davidson. “We wanted to try to return to some sense of normalcy as well as abide by all of the public health guidelines. There are many attractions that we weren’t able to have due to Covid so we had to come up with new attractions this year. They include a light show on the downtown buildings, outdoor movies and s’mores, roving characters, musical performances, local food, and snow.”

Despite drawing large crowds, the event retains its Hallmark atmosphere of small-town neighborly love. Familiar faces spouting warm greetings, mom-and-pop shops aglow with bulbs and ribbons, and main street—the town’s north star—shining bright with its rich history, can’t be rivaled by big-city lights.

Have fabulous skin for the holidays, and everyday!

Lisa Altieri Licensed Aesthetician Gift Certificates Available 704.564.1666 FB: @L.A. Skin Studio 24

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

we’re just crazy about - CHANNEL MARKERS

Global Gift Ideas If you’re looking for a gift idea this season that can also provide empowerment and financial support to the artisan who created it, check out some of the ornaments and holiday decor at The Marketplace, an online Christian fair trade store that partners with ministries around the world. The handmade products offered through The Marketplace are made by artisans around the world from Rwanda, India, the Republic of Georgia, and more.

“We have handmade ornaments and Christmas decor that have so many beautiful stories,” says Marisa Sellman, Executive Director and Founder of The Marketplace. Some are empowering parents in Haiti to provide for their families. We have some made by women in India that empowers her with a dignified job. All of our ornaments are handmade, unique, and reasonably priced.”

The Marketplace is a Christian fair trade store that helps artisans around the world support their families.

The ornaments are between $6-$12, and Sellman says many of their other products also make great gifts. “Our goal is to empower as many people as possible with a job,” she says. “All of our pricing is more affordable. Our goal is to sell as many of these as we possibly can. It’s not about exclusivity for the marketplace.”

Visitors to www.themarketplacenc.com can purchase Christmas gift bundles or to arrange a personalized shopping experience by appointment. www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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CHANNEL MARKERS - bet you didn’t know

Etched on the

Heart

Mooresville mom creates engraved gifts for customers around the world Kelly Brown believes every small business has a story. The story of Brown’s online gift shop, KellyMichaellaCo, began when she learned she was expecting a daughter and was determined to find a way to support herself while doing something she loved.

“I was in college with aspirations of attending medical school and I was working a part time job,” recalls Brown. “My number one priority was finding something I loved to do while also having the ability to stay home and raise my little girl.”

Crafting has always come naturally to Brown, so she began selling custom baby onesies online, telling herself she could always use them for her own daughter if no one bought them. That didn’t turn out to be necessary. By the time Brown’s daughter came into the world, orders for the onesies were pouring in, and KellyMichaellaCo has doubled in sales every year since it began.

Having invested in the tools needed to create hand-engraved pieces, Brown has pivoted away from onesies and focuses on laser cut personalized gifts. She is known for her custom lake ornaments which feature handcrafted laser cut images of lakes requested by her customers. She can create detailed images of any lake, anywhere in the world. She can also engrave custom messages on the back of the ornaments, creating one-of-a-kind mementos to hang on the tree year after year.

Owning a successful small business is challenging under the best circumstances; Brown is doing it with a toddler in tow, and 26

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

by Grace Kennedy photography by Jamie Cowles

another baby on the way. Knowing that her daughter wants to be “just like Mommy,” Brown makes it work for both of them. “I will sit her in my lap and let her pretend to put ornaments together or let her color on my mistake pieces. Mostly, I just take it one day at a time and remind myself that she is the reason I started this business and if I have to take a day off because she doesn’t want to cooperate then I am beyond blessed to have that flexibility.”

Brown’s gift for turning a piece of wood into a personalized memento has resulted in countless memorable stories, like the time she was commissioned to engrave the images of three huskies who had passed on, as a gift for the dogs’ owner. Brown received a video of the recipient opening the gift with tears in his eyes.

It’s this passion for the work that sets KellyMichaellaCo apart from the big-name retailers. “When you purchase from big companies you may get your item for pennies cheaper but there isn’t a person behind the computer doing a little happy dance like there is when you shop small,” says Brown.

With such stunning products, it’s not just Brown doing a happy dance—her customers have plenty of reasons to do a dance themselves.

www.kellymichaellaco.com www.etsy.com/shop/KellyMichaellaCo @kellymichaellaco on Instagram and Facebook

YOUR BEST LIFE

Staying Healthy this Winter

Interview by Renee Roberson

What you need to know about COVID-19 and flu vaccines With the winter months upon us, we asked Dr. Walter Meadors, a physician with Piedmont HealthCare, for some advice on COVID-19 and flu vaccines. Below are his responses about the current recommend guidelines.

Q: What is the status on recommended boosters for Johnson & Johnson, Pfizer, and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines?

A: In late October 2021, the CDC and FDA recommended booster vaccination injections in order to bolster waning immunity and protection six months after receiving the second shot of Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccine for the following: • People aged 65 and older, those aged 18 and older with significant medical conditions (Cancer, chronic kidney, liver, lung and heart disease and diabetes for example), • Those 18 and older who reside in long term care settings, and those 18 and older who have increased COVID-19 risks related to work (first responders, education staff, correction institution staff, transit and postal workers for example) or live in institutional settings such as prison and detention facilities as well as dormitory settings.

All people aged 18 and older who have received the J&J vaccine should receive a booster injection 2 months after their first shot. In future schedules the J&J vaccine will be offered as a two shot series.

Q: Do you recommend getting a booster that is different from the first vaccine you had? (Example: Having your first two doses of Moderna, and then getting a booster shot for Pfizer).

A: The FDA and CDC have approved mixing or matching booster vaccination for any U.S. authorized vaccine. There is no definite recommendation as to which vaccine one should obtain. Some things to consider: changing vaccines if you had a significant side effect from your primary vaccination; consider using either Moderna or Pfizer if you received J&J vaccine as it may significantly increase your immunity.

Q: Which vaccines have been approved for administration to children ages 5-12 years? What should parents consider before deciding on the vaccine for their child?

A: At this time Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine is the only one that has received an Emergency Use Authorization by the FDA for children aged 5-11. The dose is 1/3 the adult dose and has been reformulated for use in children to minimize any possibility of dosing errors. The Pfizer mRNA vaccine certainly is the Rolls-Royce of vaccines for children in terms of ingredients, side effects, safety, and effectiveness. It is perhaps the most “pure,” by that I mean it is not live, contains no thimerosal, mercury, aluminum, fetal cells, egg products, gelatin, latex preservatives, or pork products.

The volume of the shot is tiny, and it hardly stings at all.

Some parents may have a difficult time deciding to get their children vaccinated for COVID. Most pediatricians and infectious disease experts recommend vaccination. While childhood infections tend to be mild, there have been over 600 U.S. pediatric deaths caused by COVID as well as thousands of hospitalizations and increasing awareness of long COVID in children. For comparison, there were 199 US pediatric deaths due to influenza in the respiratory season of 2019-2020. Side effects were similar or less than the 12-17 age group and there were no reported cases of myocarditis in the study population.

Q: Is the flu shot also still recommended this fall/winter for residents, and will it be safe to have it administered around the same time as booster vaccines for COVID-19?

A: Influenza vaccination is recommended for all eligible people this season. The CDC states that both COVID and influenza vaccines may be administered simultaneously without any waiting period. It is anticipated that flu will be a much bigger factor in this respiratory season in contrast to last year.

You will recall that last year we were utilizing many mitigation strategies in order to deal with COVID which included social distancing, decreased socializing, consistent mask usage, frequent hand washing and staying home when sick. As a result, there were only seven flu related deaths last season compared with 186 deaths the previous year with a dramatic decrease in reported cases. Please do not neglect influenza vaccination as we combat “vaccine fatigue.”

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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THOUGHTS FROM THE MAN CAVE

Ugly Sweaters & National Lager Day

Make it a December to Remember with Fun National Holidays

by Mike Savicki

The holiday feeling and elation hit me early this year. Blame it on COVID fatigue, why not? Call me crazy but, on the very night we turned the clocks back, when I saw my first house with an inflatable Santa, eight not-so-tiny plastic reindeer on the roof, and enough strung, colored Christmas lights to be seen through the windows of both Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic, I did a dance, air high-fived that supersized Santa, and shouted at the top of my lungs, “Hell Yeah, Bring On The Holidays!”

To make it a December to remember, I did a bit of research and came up with an unofficial but amazingly awesome guide to the month in case you want to end 2021, masked or unmasked, on a high, happy, humorous, holiday note, too. If you’re looking for culture, cause, arts and entertainment, food, federal, health, animal, and even general fun events and celebrations, grab your calendar, hook up your sleigh, get into the spirit, take notes and look no further. Herewith is a collection of suggested day, week, or month long celebrations to add to your December calendar.

I’ve also taken the liberty of adding in a few suggested ways to celebrate around the lake because, well, December 2021 only rolls around once, and you deserve to rock it out and finish the year strong.

December kicks off with no less than nine month and week-long celebrations plus nearly two dozen special events to celebrate.

December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month, in line with it also being National Month of Giving. On December first I think it is more than coincidental that the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting occurs on National Christmas Lights Day. If you are hungry, the first is also National Peppermint Bark Day, Eat a Red Apple Day, and the start of National Cookie Cutter Week.

Wash your hands first, it’s also the start of National Handwashing Awareness Week.

As the week continues, it picks up steam. Dec. 2 is National Mutt Day (dogs make great holiday gift additions to the family), and the 3rd is Let’s Hug Day. The 3rd, also known this year as Faux Fur Friday, lends itself to celebrating at the International Sweater Festival.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

I don’t know where that is happening but wear a sweater anyway.

Wear new socks on the 4th, it’s National Sock Day, and make sure to postmark your Santa letters today, it’s Santa’s List Day. Speaking of Santa’s List, how are your appliances? Why not end the 6th with a new microwave, it’s National Microwave Oven Day. Now seems like a great time to share some local ways to celebrate. Around the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th (i.e., National Cotton Candy Day, National Brownie Day, National Pastry Day, and National Lager Day) why not swing by Epic Chophouse, Port City Club, Famous Toastery, The Bakery Shoppe, D9, Corkscrew, or Duckworth’s and fill your bellies? Breakfast, lunch, dinner, treats, drinks. I may go heavy on National Lager Day and see what’s on tap at Lost World, Ass Clown, Eleven Lakes, Primal, Royal Bliss, Cornelius Drafthouse and Hop and Vine. But please don’t take my suggestions, head out to your favorite places and eat, drink, and celebrate locally.

If you are a bit slow to get into the spirit, perhaps you’ll be ready by mid-month. The 12th is both Gingerbread House Day and National Poinsettia Day. Follow it up with hot chocolate; the 13th is National Cocoa Day. I hear the 14th is National Free Shipping Day but I’m an immediate gratification kind of guy so I’ll be shopping locally at The Back Room Men’s Clothier, The Village Store, and (ssshhh) Jewelers on Main.

A few more celebrations not to forget? The holidays wouldn’t be complete without an ugly sweater, right? Buy yours now and get it ready for the s17th, yes, it’s National Ugly Sweater Day. Serenade the neighbors on National Caroling Day, it’s the 20th, then welcome winter, the Winter Solstice is on the 21st, which, coincidentally, is also Humbug Day. Or, flip side, maybe try to lift your winter spirits when the daylight is scarce; the 21st is also Look on the Bright Side Day. Cookie Exchange Day is the 22nd, cozy up for National Christmas Movie Marathon Day on the 23rd, and then, well, the rest is up to you. No matter where you go or what you do, make it a great season. Happy holidays, friends!

Everyone

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4. Kristen Baird Bonnieux 6. Kristen Baird Ripple Rings $ 360 Earrings $170 www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION ASK THE EXPERT Managing our finances is an important part of our everyday lives, from creating a realistic monthly household budget to building savings and funding a college account for your children. It can be overwhelming to consider all aspects of budgeting, saving, spending, and making sure to have an action plan for retirement. We asked three local experts for their best practices for managing your money in the following pages.

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION ASK THE EXPERT

Am I On Track for My Retirement/Financial Independence?

This is a good question and a broad one, too. The first question that you should ask yourself is “What do I want my retirement/financially independent living to look like?”

Are you jet setting around the globe in your private jet or do you just want a little cabin in the mountains with a great porch and view so that you can catch up on all your reading? Maybe it’s something in between? It likely is.

The first thing that you should do is to back into your cash flow need or what I affectionately call your monthly “burn rate.” What kind of cash flow is it going to take to facilitate your lifestyle?

That leads to the next question, which is the dreaded “Have you completed a budget?” Ouch. Many view this as a painful and tedious task but it doesn’t need to be. First of all, you could hire me to do it for you for a pretty nominal fee and that would take a decent amount of the pain out of it.

If you want to do it yourself, start with a spreadsheet, your bank statements and credit card statements. Record a calendar year’s amount of paid expenses by month so that you include seasonal spending.

Next, make necessary category adjustments for your lifestyle during retirement/financial independence. Those adjustments may be few or many. Again, it depends on what your “vision” is for the future.

Aside from looking at your cash flow need, you should really inventory ALL of your financial assets as well as debt (balance sheet) and make some estimates as to what it will look like on the day that you declare your retirement/financial independence. There will be things that will be gone (hopefully debt), and other things that you may not need anymore (life and/or disability insurance), and things that are still there and worth even more! (assets).

David Hedges 209 Delburg Street Suite 205 Davidson, NC 28036 704.256.6016 david@bookmanbright.com 32

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Now there’s a whole lot of other considerations that include income sources and deriving cash flow from investments, claiming Social Security, choosing pension/annuity options, income taxes, health care costs, etc., etc. The list goes on and I’ve only skimmed the surface of what needs to be considered when planning for your future but that’s the basics and should get you started. If you need a work sheet of any sort, just email me. I or one of my assistants will send it right out at no charge, of course.

ASK THE EXPERT SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

It’s Never Too Late to Plan Your Future When it comes to your financial goals, a good advisor will help you reach them. Unfortunately, most people that come into our office do not have a Comprehensive Holistic Financial Plan. As many of you know, most people don’t plan to fail, they simply fail to plan, and this is one of the biggest mistakes I see retirees making today. The typical person is so busy running their day to day lives with their careers, families, and church time that they never seem to get around to doing effective comprehensive financial planning. I know some people think they have waited too long to start planning—however, it’s never too late to start planning for your future.

The strategy that helps you accumulate your wealth is not necessarily the strategy that will help you keep your wealth in retirement. We know that more people die coming down Mount Everest than those going up.

Equate going up to Wealth Accumulation Planning and coming back down to Retirement Distribution Planning. Our focus and passion at A4 Wealth Advisors is helping those who are retired or retiring soon. Thus, we want to ensure that our clients do not run out of money! Some big mistakes are not understanding how to mitigate Inflation, Taxes, Sequence Risk, Longevity Risk, Behavior Risk, and Long-Term Care Risk, to name a few.

Additionally, life insurance in retirement is something we always analyze.

Is it necessary or not in retirement? The answer is different for everyone.

Life Insurance has really evolved over the past 15 years. Figuring out your primary objective to solve for is key—are you seeking pure death benefit, additional tax advantaged supplemental retirement income, long-term care benefits, college planning, or simply to maximize your estate and pass assets tax-free to your heirs? Unlike the old school whole life polices 30 years ago earning a paltry interest, new life insurance policies have much better upside potential, can protect downside market risk, and can solve for a variety of potential needs. A good advisor can assess and prioritize your needs and determine how to best solve for your objectives by designing a custom life insurance plan for you.

If you’re reading this, a good action item for you to do NOW is some proactive tax planning. We believe that taxes are ON SALE currently, so it is a great time to do tax planning BEFORE they go up. There are many strategies to help reduce future Required Minimum Distributions (RMD’s) and the taxes that go with it. The IRS forces you to take RMD’s at age 72. Getting an advisor to help find solutions for minimizing taxes will help prevent what I like to call a “tax time bomb” at age 72.

Lastly, be sure you’re incorporating estate planning techniques into your financial plan. Deciding whether you could benefit from different types of trusts and wills is an essential part of your financial plan. Whoever you decided to work with, be sure you are getting the help you need in this area as well.

John Balcerzak, CFP® 16140 Northcross Dr, Huntersville 704.509.1141 a4wealth.com www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION ASK THE EXPERT

What Do You Want Your Money to Do for You? The smartest thing you can do with your money in 2022 is to figure out what you want it to do for you. No matter what the rate of return is for your investments, if you don’t know what you want your money to do for you, then you are working without a plan.

For most families, what they want their money to do for them changes throughout their lives. Perhaps your goal is to amass wealth so you can purchase a yacht and sail around the world, or perhaps you want to retire early and spend your time pursuing your hobbies and interests. Perhaps you want to pay for the higher education of your children and grandchildren or leave a legacy of philanthropic giving. Like any goal, you are more likely to get there with a plan.

Deciding what you want your money to do for you may not be easy, and many clients come into our office having never set a goal for their wealth. Sometimes family members aren’t on the same page, and that’s ok. Often, our first step is to get to know the family and clarify their goals. Why is this so important? Besides getting to know each other, it is critical to laying out a long-term comprehensive plan.

Investments are only one element of comprehensive and holistic financial planning. Investment management, tax planning, estate planning, and a review of insurance and long-term care needs are some of the elements that we consider when we look at your financial goals and set a strategy to achieve them. Regular review and adapting to changes in the market, tax code, and estate planning laws allows us to ensure that our clients are well positioned to meet their goals in the long-term.

Daniel Tobias, CFP® 17505 W. Catawba Ave., Suite #200, Cornelius 704.457.0060 www.passportwm.com

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

As a fee-only CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM Professional, I believe that the trust of my clients is my most valuable asset. Passport Wealth Management is a feeonly client-fiduciary financial planning firm, which means we are beholden only to our clients – we earn no commissions, fees or kickbacks from anyone else. Being a fiduciary means that Passport Wealth Management always put our clients’ interests ahead of our own, acting with prudence and never misleading clients about investment advice or opportunities.

Whatever your financial choices and goals, I hope you make a plan to achieve them and wish you a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2022.

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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COMMUNITY HELPERS

Back row: Bill Gross and Gary Andaas Front row: Ann Gross and Becky Barger Not pictured: Meredith and David Romley, Chris Carroll, Trana Rashid, and Jeanne Andaas

With Open Arms Cornelius residents work together to welcome refugee family from Afghanistan

by Allie Spencer photography by Jon Beyerle

In late summer, the Hashemi family, fearing for their lives, were evacuated from Afghanistan by the U.S. State Department. Salim Hashemi had served as an interpreter for the U.S. Army and was undergoing the lengthy process of applying for a special immigrant visa. He was trusted and he was at risk, as was his wife Najila and their four young children. As they left their home, their people, their culture, and nearly all of their possessions in pursuit of safety, there was a community of people in Lake Norman putting the wheels in motion to prepare for their arrival.

Genius form where community members could sign up to provide essentials like furnishings, appliances, food, clothing or volunteer their time to help move the family into their new home.

Word spread quickly as the SignUp Genius was posted to social media and shared in group chats between friends and neighbors.

The local community effort was spearheaded by Cornelius residents Meredith and David Romley. The Romleys, who moved to Cornelius in 2018 after many years in Washington D.C., reached out to the State Department when the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan was announced. David, who served two tours in Iraq and two tours in Afghanistan during his 20 years with the U.S. Marine Corps, and Meredith felt they should take care of the people that took care of American soldiers when they were in Afghanistan.

The Romleys experienced an outpouring of support from their own friends and neighbors, but also connected with people they had never met before, like Trana The Hashemi children enjoyed Rashid, a pharmacist and first gen- celebrating Halloween with donated costumes. eration Afghan American who lives in Cornelius. Rashid, who still has family in Afghanistan, had been watching the news 24/7 and was feeling helpless when she saw a post on the app Nextdoor with a link to the Signup Genius.

She texted Meredith to let her know that she could speak Farsi and could help sourcing any cultural items. They got in touch and came up with a plan to have Rashid accompany them to the hotel where the Hashemis had been quarantining so they would be greeted by another Afghan.

“We benefitted immensely from having interpreters alongside us, says David. “We could not have done what we tried to do without them. I credit them for saving lives, literally.”

Initially, the Romleys were told that the Charlotte area may not be accepting refugees due to the lack of affordable housing.

“We said to the resettlement agency, ‘You find us a family and we’ll figure it out,’” says Meredith Romley.

Signing up to help In August, the Romleys got the call that there was a family of six arriving in 12 hours. That’s when the Romleys reached out to the Lake Norman community for help. Meredith created a SignUp 36

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

“Within hours of me posting what we needed, it was filled,” says Meredith.

“Najila [Hashemi] looked stunned, but then she reached in for a hug. She was really happy to see a familiar face, another Afghan,” says Rashid of their first meeting.

Rashid says when the family eventually arrived at their new house, they were happy and excited. She describes the house as fully furnished, the fridge and pantry fully stocked, and the kitchen completely outfitted with everything necessary.

“Everyone fully prepared this family for success,” says Rashid.

Two people instrumental in making that happen were longtime Lake Norman residents Gary and Jeanne Andaas. Gary works in the consumer products business for housewares and Jeanne is a part time decorator and math tutor. They heard about the Hashemi family from a neighbor of the Romleys and wanted to show their gratitude for the help Salim Hashemi provided to the American efforts in Afghanistan.

They donated a new queen sized bed, sofa and brand new kitchen goods. “Pots, pans, cutlery, glasses—I mean everything,” says Meredith.

“We feel truly blessed to live in this great country and it’s a privilege to be able to give back to others who are starting a new life here,” says Gary Andaas.

From driving lessons to English tutoring Another wave of support came from the Bailey’s Glen community.

Bill and Anne Gross, residents of Bailey’s Glen, heard about the Hashemis from their daughter, Dr. Lori Hoe DVM, who is friends with the Romleys. Bill spread the word about the family to the Bailey’s Glen community via email, and the residents responded with clothing, food, a sizable monetary donation, volunteers to drive the family to appointments, and a language tutor, Becky Barger.

Barger, a retired teacher, volunteered to teach the family English and got started about a week after they arrived. She tutors Najila and the three eldest Hashemi children for 45 minutes a day, five days a week.

English lessons with Barger each day. They were recently introduced to the American tradition of Halloween—carving pumpkins with the Romleys and sporting Halloween costumes Barger’s daughter had collected from Halloweens past.

Looking ahead for future refugees As the Hashemis settle into Cornelius, the Romleys are focusing on efforts to help scale the refugee resettlement process, specifically when it comes to finding affordable housing in the area.

“It is so difficult to find housing accommodations for these folks.

Particularly when you are trying to balance a rent cost they can afford after they get settled themselves and in locations that are somewhat central to schools and doctor’s offices, and a place that is livable and safe,” says David.

There is also a need for other host families who are able to take on all aspects of sponsoring a family like the Romleys have done, which is no easy feat. Yet the Romleys continue to credit their community, neighbors and friends for making the Hashemis story possible.

“We just happen to be the people that tried to rally the troops to make it possible. There are a lot of terrific people in this community,” says David.

If you have resources or a business that may help scale the effort to accommodate refugee families, please contact David Romley at 703.994.5987.

“It’s one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done,” she says.

Barger has a lesson plan each day and says she frequently uses props, songs, toys and games to teach the family. She says she was surprised by how much fun they all have together. “It’s been a real bonding experience. They make me feel part of the family.”

Outside of English lessons, Barger has taken the family on shopping trips, helped source iPads, and introduced the Hashemis to life in general in Lake Norman.

“The older kids love to ride in my golf cart,” she says with a laugh.

Barger also provided some early driving lessons to Salim, until Meredith Romley reached out to Chris Carroll, who owns LKN Driving School along with his wife Lezlie Carroll. Chris volunteered his time to teach Salim the rules of the road and gain confidence behind the wheel.

“For everything they have been through, and how our community and the Romleys put this all together, it was no-brainer for LKN Driving School to get involved,” says Chris.

Salim recently passed his driver’s test and now has his driver’s license.

For now, the Hashemis are adjusting to life in the U.S. The children are attending Cornelius Elementary and continuing their www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

37

Thank you,

Lake Norman for your support throughout 2021.

We look forward to continuing to serve this community by providing food, education and essentials with dignity, in 2022!

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

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39

NAVIGATORS

Helping Facilitate Better Health

April Cook, Executive Director of Lake Norman Community Health Clinic.

April Cook’s commitment to serving others

by Allison Futterman photography by Jamie Cowles

The Lake Norman Community Health Clinic (LNCHC) serves 1,500 patients annually, accounting for more than 7,500 appointments—and is an invaluable resource for people in the federal poverty level. As LNCHC’s Executive Director, April Cook explains, “They’re not choosing not to have insurance, they can’t afford it.” April is the former Chairperson of the North Carolina Association of Free and Charitable Clinics and has served on board for eight years. She plays an integral role in the vital lifeline LNCHC brings to the community, which includes primary care, women’s health services, behavioral health counseling, orthopedics, physical therapy, and more.

The beginning In 1998, a minister approached Dr. David Cook, co-founder and current co-medical director of LNCHC, and asked him to see members of his congregation who didn’t have access to care.

He wanted to help, so Dr. Cook started seeing patients in the back of a Huntersville grocery store owned by one of the church members. Eventually, other churches became involved and a free clinic was set up at First Baptist Church. This was something Dr. Cook did at night, after working at his regular practice—in order to give back. April also shared a deep calling to “give back to the community that was so good to us.” Eventually, she spearheaded the effort to pull together multiple churches in order to serve more patients.

April Cook’s role “David’s job was to see patients,” says April. He was caring and compassionate, but didn’t have time for the policies and procedures.” She was excited and enthusiastic about taking on this mission, and it also gave her an opportunity to use her valuable skills. “I have an MBA, but I left the workforce when I had my third child. This gave me a purpose and something to sink my teeth into. It was also something I could take the lead in.” She was committed to “taking the mission to a different level.” And she has. She’s grown the clinic—increasing funding dollars, volunteers, and services.

The evolution As a grassroots clinic they originally saw people with conditions such as sinusitis, colds, and broken limbs. And while it was rewarding to help them, “We saw the need for continuity of care for those people with chronic diseases—such hypertension, diabetes, and asthma,” says April. They operate with a compre40

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

hensive variety of clinical volunteers, including residents, private practice physicians, a physical therapist, an orthopedist, and more—enabling them to provide a range of quality care to their patients.

In 2007, the clinic moved into their current 4,000-square-foot location on Hunters Road. “We love it here,” says April. “And it’s on the bus line, which is very important to the population we serve.” Even though she’s always been there full time, she was unpaid volunteer until 2013. As executive director, one of her many responsibilities is to manage volunteers and staff, which include an office manager, development director, a community health care worker, a physician assistant, an RN, a CNA and an RNA. It’s worth noting that all of their MDs are volunteer physicians.

The pandemic During the COVID-19 pandemic, they set up a weekly vaccine clinic, where they administered more than 200 vaccines a week, February through June. “Our staff got vaccinated before we gave the vaccine to others. We talk the talk and walk the walk,” she says. “We’re part of this community and we’ve got to be part of the solution.”

Improving lives Under April’s leadership, the clinic has evolved to help people in other ways that may be affecting their quality of life. Whether it’s addressing food insecurity or dealing with a moldy home that’s making someone sick—they find someone to help. “We don’t leave people hanging,” she says. “We will find that resource.”

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www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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Horses are the agent of

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Call us at 704-721-7199 to schedule your personalized tour today.

JrK – Grade 12 | cannonschool.org

Unique Gifts

TRENDS + STYLE

[5]

from local artisans

[5]

[1]

[6]

[2]

[3]

[6]

[4]

All of these items can be purchased at:

751 NC-16 Business Suite J, Denver, NC 28037

5. uniquely crafted 1. handmade pottery 3. lake norman ornaments wooden boards 2. framed lake 4. advent and holiday 6. Albertine’s painting silk bouquets gnomes www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

43

HOLIDAYS

How to be a Host with the

Most Tips for a stress-free holiday

by Renee Roberson photography by Tiffany Ringwald Photography

Pomegranate Prosecco Smash From How Sweet Eats

• Crushed ice • 1 tablespoon pomegranate arils • 2 ounces pomegranate juice • 1 teaspoon maple syrup • 1 ounce vodka • 4 to 6 ounces prosecco • 1 tablespoon pomegranate arils • a sprig of rosemary for garnish Instructions: Fill a glass with crushed ice. Add the pomegranate juice, maple syrup, vodka and stir. Top it off with the prosecco. Add in the arils and garnish with a sprig of rosemary!

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Make your-owncocktail trays and charcuterie boards are always a hit when entertaining guests.

You can’t go wrong with mixing traditional holiday colors with faux greenery and classic silver and gold.

Trying to plan for holiday decorating and entertaining can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Looking for some tips on how to deck your halls and welcome guests without all the fuss? We reached out to Lisa McCoy from A House by the Lake Interiors for some advice on how to streamline the holidays, so you’ll have plenty of time to also enjoy the eggnog.

Color me happy

There are many different color palettes you can choose from when decorating for the holidays, from greens and blues, to reds and greens, to reds and golds, to blue and whites. Whether your style is farmhouse, mid-century modern, rustic, coastal, or lakeside retreat, don’t be afraid to personalize your décor with items that are special to you. Guests may be in and out of your home throughout the holidays, but you are the one who gets to enjoy the trees, garlands, ornaments, and accessories the most. This year, McCoy says she’s personalizing her family’s new cottage in in Wrightsville Beach with a “Beachy Blue and Teal Coastal Christmas” theme with clam shell and oyster ornaments mixed in.

Shop for décor at any number of boutiques and stores in the Lake Norman area—they go all out for the holidays! McCoy says her favorite places to shop for décor locally is Lilly & Grace in Mooresville (“the owners are lovely and their store is gorgeous!” says McCoy), Dutchmans Designs and Inspired at Lake Norman, both in Cornelius.

A Festive Spread

Entertaining is a whole lot easier if you keep a few staple enter-

taining pieces in your home. Some of McCoy’s favorites include festive drink glasses, funny cocktail napkins, and drink trays.

Purchase a few large linen napkins with holiday patterns. You can put one over a tray a pour a heaping pile of chips around a dip in the center. It’s simple way to add a festive touch to a universal party snack.

Don’t let what to serve overwhelm you. McCoy swears by premade platters from places like Costco. “They are easy, affordable, and already come on catering trays that you can easily add some color garnishes to.” she says.

Charcuterie boards make a great presentation. Fill them to the brim with meats and cheeses, and then spruce the board up in and around the edges with items like cranberries, rosemary, half a pomegranate, figs, and items like red grapes and sliced red apples. For easy prep, cut the items up a day or two in advance and then arrange on a tray before guests arrive.

For beverages, two of McCoy’s favorite beverages to serve while entertaining are slow cooker apple cider and Pomegranate Prosecco Smash (see recipe sidebar on previous page). www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

45

Cabinetry for every room. Designed on your budget!

Outdoor kitchens Custom cabinets Semi-Custom cabinets Bath vanities

704-663-0077 388 E. Plaza Dr. Mooresville, NC 28115 VineAndBranchWoodworks.com

Everybody Needs A Holiday Adventure!

Spend the day with us!

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

Mon–Sat 10AM–6PM Sun 10AM–5PM | 500 S. Main St. • Mooresville 704.746.3636 | mainantiques.com 46

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Lake Spaces How We Live at the Lake

Photography by Kyle Schraff/ProLocal Photography

This home has a rear exterior double decker porch that extends the entertaining space to the outdoors; a gourmet kitchen and beverage center connects directly to the interior kitchen and more than doubles the area to prep and cook.

A renovated Cornelius home has plenty of indoor and outdoor entertaining space. p. 48 www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

47

DWELLINGS

A Restorative Renovation

Colorful accents take lake home to next level

by Bek Mitchell-Kidd photography by Kyle Schraff/ProLocal Photography

A recently renovated Cornelius home has the good fortune of being situated on both a golf course and Lake Norman, but it’s inside where you’ll find some of the best views. Interior designer Kari Molnar worked her magic with bold deep color whose opaqueness manages to reflect the natural light as it weaves its way throughout the upper level of the home.

“The use of blue hues, in particular a true navy color, was never in question. The client loved the depth and bold pop that navy 48

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

offers. We also love how it pairs so well with the black cabinetry, the lighting, and the floor plan,” says Molnar.

Ashley J. Design served as the architect, along with construction

by Grainda Builders.

“Overall, I would describe the house as timeless transitional, however we definitely had fun; because the client had zero fear of going for the bold accents,” Molnar says.

Architect Ashley Jimenez changed the traffic pattern which now provides access from the kitchen to the drop zone area and butler’s pantry. You can have multiple people in the area performing different functions without impacting each other whether cooking, stopping by to grab a drink, or just arriving home.

The wallpaper in the dining room is a navy-color grass cloth by Phillip Jefferies and creates an elegant, timeless backdrop for the richness of the blue seating and warm tones of the dining table. A Visual Comfort chandelier holds court over the dining room amid all of the natural light. Adding windows and seamless transitions to the outdoors brought the home from a darker 1990s style to more of today’s open and airy preferred design.

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

49

DWELLINGS

In the kitchen, Jimenez added two additional windows originally scheduled to be cabinets to either side of the built-in refrigerator. “Sometimes you have to pick your battles when designing a home, but adding as much natural light as possible is always something I fight for,” says Jimenez.

Molnar used Sherwin Williams “Caviar” for the kitchen island which anchors the room and complements the black range and nearby built-ins. The contrast from dark to light with the brass hardware gives the space definition while still feeling open.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

The porch’s whitewashed brick and shiplap ceiling remind you that you’re at a house by the lake, and beckon you to pull up a chair to witness a sunset over the water. Molnar pulled through bold blue hues with a mixture of floral and striped textiles, and chinoiserie planters to distinguish each outdoor seating environment while still maintaining a cohesive feel.

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

51

DWELLINGS

A white bead Visual Comfort chandelier adds to the pizzazz of the breakfast nook.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Luxury & Performance at the Lake!

Stop by.

Be Inspired.

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Offering unsurpassed Concierge Service and Roadside Assistance

Art | Jewelry | Gifts | Home 21136 Catawba Ave Cornelius, NC 28031

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protecting our LKN community includes

»»

HOME MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR THE WINTER

CLEAN OUT YOUR GUTTERS: water damage to your home caused by a backup of debris in the gutters is typically not covered under your homeowner’s policy.

CHECK YOUR HEATING SYSTEM: Clear the area around the unit and clean the outside coils with a mild detergent. Replace your air filters to keep it running like a champ during the season change.

TRIM DEAD TREE LIMBS: While your homeowner’s policy will cover if a live tree falls on your home it typically will not cover a dead tree.

COVER AND WINTERIZE YOUR POOL: Not only will it help extend the life of your pool, but it will also keep your family safe.

Zachary Fogle-Sizemore

Personal Lines CSR

(704) 875-3060 foglegroup.com

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

With 16 years of experience at the agency, Zachary is able to assist our clients with their policy changes and billing inquiries.

CURRENTS reminds you to shop small

Limited Ed print by James Harris. $275.00 framed.

230 N. Main St., Mooresville, NC 704-664-0236 www.tropicalconnectionslakenorman.com Tuesday - Friday: 10am-5pm Saturday : 10am- 4pm

Buy $100 Gift Card Get $25 Loaded On For Free!

Valid until December 24th

20545 Torrence Chapel Road Suite 1 Cornelius, NC 28031 704-765-6500 blolakenorman@blomedry.com Insta: @blolakenorman FB: Blo Lake Norman

CURRENTLY Haute

this season!

Visit these boutiques and gift shops to find just what you’re looking for!

Specializing in Microcurrent Facial Toning and Sculpting!

Located inside U.S. Studios 20124 W Catawba Ave. Suite B | Cornelius, NC 28031 704-657-7726 | www.skintightmicrocurrent.com www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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Where the OLD is the new NEW Stay Connected

Deck the halls a nD your e ntire ho me AT THE DEPOT!

CUSTOM

holiday cakes and cupcakes

Visit www.yappyhourbakery.com to find the treat truck and follow us on social media to find our next stop @yappyhourbakery

Subscribe to our sneak peek e-newsletter.

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

Providing More Than Beautiful Smiles Ellie’s Ellie’sDiner DinerNOW on OPEN site

Come visit the largest antique mall in the South 88,000Square Square Feet Feet •• Over Over 725 Booths 88,000 625 Booths Comfortably air air conditioned conditioned Comfortably

325 McGill Ave. NW Concord, NC 28026 704-787-9351 www.depotgibsonmill.com Mon-Sat 10-7• Sunday 1-6 56

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

Welborne, White & Schmidt E X C E L L E N C E

I N

D E N T I S T R Y

9700 Caldwell Commons Circle | Cornelius, NC 28031 Tel: 704-896-7955 | Website: www.wwsdental.com

Holiday Finds [5]

TRENDS + STYLE

for your décor

TRADITIONAL TOUCHES WILL MAKE YOUR HOME FEEL SPECIAL THIS SEASON

[3]

[4]

[7]

[6]

[1]

[2]

[8]

All of these items can be purchased at:

178 N. Main Street, Mooresville, NC 704.957.5014

1. Cardinal Figurine $14.50

3. Holiday Picture Frames 5. Santa Countdown Clock $24 $29 and up

2. Water Lantern $79

4. Children’s Apron $26

6. Cone Trees $59 and up

7. Lux Fragranced Botanicals $34 8. Embroidered Dove Pillow $72

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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

Wine Down

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

Email Sharon@LNCurrents.com

Gift Cards on sale now! $10 off with every $50 card

Go to n.com thelostcaju k up ic P to order or Delivery

Come enjoy our holiday menu with Quarts and Gallons To Go with all our Gumbos and Cajun Classics

Catfish... Seafood Platters ... Oysters on Half Shell

9709-A Sam Furr Rd, Huntersville | 980.689.2924 | thelostcajun.com

Make your holiday reservations now!

Closed December 24th-28th, and New Year’s Eve - January 3rd.

275 N Main St, Troutman, NC 28166 (704) 528-1204 www.pellegrinostrattoria.com

Dine + Wine Eating, drinking, cooking and fun

p. 60 Sip on sparkling wine p. 62 Gifts for the beer lover p. 64 Versatile Chocolate pudding p. 66 Love for community at Cabbella’s Coffee Shop

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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DINE+WINE - wine time

Bubbling Over A sparkling and less expensive way to toast the holidays

???

by Trevor Burton | photography by Trevor Burton

Champagne has cleverly carved out a market position, as a finely crafted, luxury wine that is tightly linked to celebrating life’s important moments, weddings, births and even something simple, like the start of a new year. It’s my opinion that the celebration part of sparkling wine revolves mostly around the bubbles and not the name, “Champagne.” Champagne winemakers may have a lock on wines that carry the name, “Champagne.” But they don’t have a worldwide lock on bubbles. And that’s good news.

Champagne is the end result of a second fermentation that takes place in the bottle. When grape juice ferments, yeast acts to convert sugar into alcohol and carbon dioxide. In “normal” fermentation the carbon dioxide simply vents off into the atmosphere.

When fermentation takes place in a closed bottle, carbon dioxide has nowhere to escape to and gets absorbed into the wine. That’s where the bubbles come from.

There are a number of sparkling wines made in exactly the same way that Champagne comes into the world. They’re much less expensive than the, admittedly, fine wines that emanate from Champagne.

Most of the main wine producing regions in France have their own sparkling wines. These wines are called Crémant. Each of them is made in the same manner as Champagne; on the label you’ll see the notation “méthode traditionnelle.” You absolutely can’t go wrong with them and they carry a price that will have you bringing lots of them home. They’re easy to find and they are so much more than just cheap alternatives. They have their own character. They are interesting and great to sip on.

I love wines from Burgundy so I like to sip on the Crémant de Bourgogne. Burgundy Crémants are made from some of the same grapes as Champagne—Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. You’re getting as close to Champagne style as possible. Burgundy is not as chilly as Champagne so you get a different type of wine; deeper, warmer and less crisp.

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Move a little north and you get the chills, chills that produce crisp wines, but you won’t get Champagne’s grapes. And that’s fun; exploring what different grapes and different terroirs bring to their wines. One great wine to search out is Crémant de Loire; they are particularly good. Their main grape is Chenin Blanc.

Another northern star is Crémant d’Alsace. Here the grapes are Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and several others. If you’re on the lookout for bottled bubbles, both Crémant de Loire and Crémant d’Alsace are good bets and there are many more from other regions around France.

So, there’s a huge array of sparkling alternatives to pick from in France. Move across the Pyrenees and you run into another. This is one of my favorite wines purely and simply because of the value you get. The wine is Cava. A really good bottle can find its way to your dinner table for under $20. Cava is made in the exact same way as Champagne. The grapes are way different— not surprising as you’re in Spain, not France. The grapes used in Spain are Macabeo, Parellada and Xarel-lo.

With Cava you’re into a whole new world. There’s nothing chilly about this part of Spain. The Penedès wine region, where most Cavas come from, is located along the Mediterranean coast in northeastern Spain. Its grapes are grown under a climate, characterized by plenty of sunshine and heat during the growing season, lack of humidity and a mild winter. Cava is distinctive. It demonstrates regional and cultural character. The Catalan region is significantly different from the rest of Spain even to the point of having its own language, a mélange of French and Spanish.

And, no doubt about it, Cava is Catalan’s wine, linked to the ways of its people.

It’s that time of year. Go for those carbon dioxide bubbles. There are many reasons to celebrate. Most important is that we may finally be over this COVID mess. There are so many ways to toast to good fortune without spending one. Enjoy.

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Nurse Line of Lake Norman www.lakenormannurse.com www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

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DINE+WINE - on tap

We’ll Toast to That

Make the beer lover in your life “hoppy”

with these gift ideas

by Lara Tumer | Photos courtesy of Facebook

With so many awesome local breweries popping up in the Lake Norman area, it’s easy to celebrate the beer lovers in your life this holiday season. Not only can you feel good about shopping small and supporting a neighborhood business, but also feel confident that you’re gifting something they’ll actually love. Here are a few suggestions to help you skip long lines, and avoid supply chain worries, and purchasing unwanted gifts that will wind up at the bottom of their closet.

1. Greatest Gift Pack for the Beer Lover in Your Life – $50 Grab this gift pack in the Lost World’s Brewing taproom. It’s carefully curated for any craft beer and adventure lover. It includes a Lost World’s hat (either baseball or trucker), a Lost World’s t-shirt of your choosing, a Collector’s beer glass, tickets to Lost World’s Beer School for two (taking place on the 3rd Saturday of each month), and stickers to decorate a laptop, water bottle, etc. Add in a gift card to really make this gift toast-worthy.

2. Flight Board and Glasses - $35 Available at Royal Bliss Brewery, this flight board is handmade from reclaimed wood and branded by Larry Griffin himself. It comes with four taster glasses designed with a simple logo imprint. This simple and unique gift is sure to impress.

3. Logo Trucker Hat - $25 A new hat is something anyone can always use in their wardrobe rotation. Ass Clown Brewing has a handful of awesome trucker hat designs. Throw in a leather koozie or some sandstone coasters if you’re looking to shop at a higher price point.

4. Unisex Zip Fleece Hoodie - $48 Cozy apparel branded with a local brewery makes for a perfect holiday gift option as temps cool down. The current design for sale on King Canary Brewing Company’s website is a beautiful heather slate color available in sizes small through extra large. They also have a ton of tees, tanks, and even a bandana for furry friends.

5. Brewery Gift Card – $10 - $100 Royal Bliss Brewery said it best: “beer tastes better when someone else pays for it.” There’s no question about that. Grab a gift card for any beer lover in your life so they can pick up some beer or enjoy a night of good music and good company for a night out at any of the local breweries. This round’s on you!

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

! s a m t s i r h C y Merr from Randy Marion Subaru

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Call To Start Service Today! 704-222-2639 www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

63

DINE+WINE | in the kitchen

Decadent Chocolate Pudding

A Tantalizing

Treat

This holiday season and beyond tantalize your family and friends with this easy yet indulgent homemade dark chocolate pudding! Pour in a pie, pipe into tree shapes, or just eat from the bowl, this silky dream of a pudding is like an irresistible mousse but without the eggs, time, and overly richness. Perfect after a holiday meal. Chocolate is the answer so who cares what the question is!

Ingredients: 1/4 cup cornstarch (organic or non-GMO if possible) 1/4 cup coconut sugar or 1/3 cup regular sugar 6 ounces dark 70 percent or above chocolate (I love Hu gems) 2 1/2 or 3 cups whole milk (canned full fat coconut milk works well for non-dairy) 1/2 teaspoon vanilla paste or vanilla extract Instructions: In a saucepan, mix the cornstarch with the sugar and add enough milk to make a smooth paste. While stirring, add in the rest of the 2 1/2 cups of milk. Continue stirring while on medium heat until the mixture is thickened and just simmering. Remove and stir in the chocolate until melted and add the vanilla and the other 1/2 cup of milk if making a one bowl pudding. For a bowl, pour into a serving dish and press wrap onto the surface to prevent a skin. To serve, remove 30 minutes before and garnish with crushed peppermint or toffee bits and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

For the trees, place muffin liners in a muffin tin and place chilled firm 2 1/2 cups of milk mixture in a piping bag. Pipe into each cup in a circular motion going upward. Decorate with sprinkles and chill to serve.

For a pie, use the 2 1/2 cups of milk mixture and pour straight into a prepared crust of choice and chill. The pie can be garnished with crushed peppermint or toffee bits and a dollop of whipped cream on top.

y by Glenn Photograph

Roberson

Serves approximately 8.

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LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 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.

Make your Holiday

Epic!

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DINE+WINE | nibbles + bites

????

A Loyal

g n i oF llow

Denver’s Cabbella’s Coffee earns impeccable reputation

Cabbella’s Coffee Shop owner Suzi Hearld greets customers.

by Tony Ricciardelli | photography by Lisa Crates

For Lake Norman coffee drinkers venturing west toward Lincoln County on Highway 73, the place to go for roasted coffee and specialty drinks is Cabbella’s Coffee Shop in Denver. Located on State Road 16 Business, Cabbella’s is known for its eclectic choice of beverages, and its comfortable, welcoming atmosphere. This shop is where the locals satisfy their coffee cravings, serving hot and cold drinks at reasonable prices, without the glitz and urgency of the bigger, well-known franchises. There is nothing pretentious about Cabbella’s; the homey, living room atmosphere and intimate seating arrangement entice customers to unwind, converse, and enjoy the camaraderie. It has been serving Denver and its surrounding communities for twelve years.

“My late husband JR and I owned a nearby retail business, and we were doing quite well,” says Cabbella’s owner Suzi Hearld.

“We had no intention of owning a coffee shop; we were just 66

LAKE NORMAN CURRENTS | DECEMBER 2021

shopping around for merchandise to sell in our store. When JR noticed this coffee shop for sale, we were only interested in buying its furniture. The owner, however, offered us the entire business: the furniture, the equipment, all of it. Suddenly, we owned a coffee shop, and we were leaping into unfamiliar territory.”

Studying the craft Subsequently, JR spent four months studying how successful coffee shops operate their businesses. He became a self-taught barista, learning the origins and history of coffee—how it is processed, how it is brewed, how it is served. He mastered countless recipes and experimented with hundreds of coffee and drink combinations, flavors, styles, and techniques. Suzi, of course, was the in-house taste tester. Suzi notes, “before we had the retail store, I had run my own photo restoration

The shop hosts Cars and Coffee, a monthly gathering of local muscle car afficionados who gather in the Cabbella’s parking lot, where they showcase their Corvettes, Trans-Ams, Camaros, and vintage muscle cars. Their intent is to engage car enthusiasts traveling along State Road 16 Business in Denver, while also supporting the shop. On Dec. 18, weather permitting, Santa Claus will join the Cars and Coffee crew.

A local book club gathered at Cabbella’s recently.

company for twenty-five years. Fortunately, I had the business savvy to keep this new venture on track.”

In addition to hot and cold coffee, Cabbella’s boasts a wide selection of beverages including teas and sodas, protein shakes, frappes, and smoothies. Locally baked goods are also available. “Our coffee,” Suzi points out, “comes from an island off the coast of Panama, where the coffee is deemed the best in the world. Coincidently, our number one seller from this region of Panama is named Carolina. We have a catalogue of more than three hundred top grade coffees we can special order for customers.”

The shop’s offerings are impressive: forty-two assorted syrups, seventeen smoothie flavors, Italian Sodas, Milkshakes, Black and Green teas with purified fruit, Hot Chocolate, twelve different Protein Drinks. House specialties include original creations including Blackberry Banana Nut, Almond Joy, Turtle Mocha, and Milky Way coffees, and Dirty Chai tea. A popular choice among the locals is a powder-based Chai named Big Train Chai. Suzi’s latest creation is the Apple-Spiced Chai Frappe made with pureed apples.

Customers supporting more than business Over the years, Cabbella’s has drawn a loyal clientele and growing support from its patrons. “We’re more than a com-

Cabbella’s offers a wide variety of hot and cold specialty drinks.

munity,” says Suzi, “we’re a family.” The support she refers to became overwhelmingly evident when her husband passed away in June 2020. “JR was a people-person, much loved and respected. When he died, our customers set up a GoFundMe page with a goal of raising $2,000 to offset expenses associated with JR’s passing and the downtime we needed to heal. Four days later, donations amounted to $24,000.”

Suzi recalls emotionally the generosity she experienced after her husband’s demise. “The outpouring and kindness customers showed toward me and my family was extraordinarily moving. We received hundreds of cards, beautiful flowers, and individual donations. Some of our patrons went as far as landscaping my property and detailing my home prior to JR’s commemorative service.”

Suzi is resolute in her efforts to give back to the community.

Each holiday season, Cabbella’s serves as a drop-off point for Toys for Tots donations, and Hearld hosts a Christmas Angel Tree in conjunction with Christian Ministries. The business also provides gift baskets for local fund-raising auctions and church events.

Cabbella’s Coffee Shop 1250 N.C. 16, Denver www.cabellascoffee.com

www.LNCurrents.com | DECEMBER 2021

67

ON THE CIRCUIT

From left to right: The Christmas Vespers service at Davidson College, an evening with author Joyce Brown at Mooresville Public LIbrary, and Mistletoe Sip & Shop in Mooresville.

December!

Compiled by Bek Mitchell-Kidd

Galleries

Nicholas Galanin’s “Dreaming in English” (Through Dec. 9) Nicholas Galanin’s work is rooted in his perspective as an Indigenous man, deeply connected to the land and his Tlingit/Unangax culture.

His practice, encompasses sculpture, installation, photography, video, performance, printmaking and textile-based works. Free.

Van Every/Smith Galleries, 315 N. Main Street, Davidson. www. davidsoncollegeartgalleries.org/ Amazing Abstract (Nov. 16 – Jan. 13, 2022) Stop by to view and shop local art. Free. Tues.-Fri., Noon-4 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mooresville Arts Depot, 103 W. Center Avenue, Mooresville, www. mooresvillearts.org

Events

Mistletoe Sip & Shop (Dec. 3 and 17) Shop unique businesses and enjoy store specials, sumptuous sips, divine deals, yummy appetizers, gifts, treats and more. Free to attend. 6-8 p.m. Downtown Mooresville (Main + Broad Streets.) www.downtownmooresville.com New Moon Hike (Dec. 4) See the stars on a hike under the new moon. The dark skies of the new moon make for great stargazing in the Latta Prairie. Dress warm and bring a flashlight or headlamp to this 2-mile moderate hike. Ages 12+. Free. 6-7: 30 p.m. Meet at Quest Nature Center, 6345 Sample Rd Huntersville.

Christmas Vespers: A Service of Lessons and Carols (Dec. 5) The annual Christmas Vespers service of lessons and carols is a timehonored tradition in the Davidson community. The traditional candlelight worship service features beautiful choral music provided by the Davidson College Chorale, and scripture readings by campus leaders reflecting upon the hope and promise of Christ’s birth in the Christmas season. Special guests include the Davidson College Brass Quintet and 68

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the Tower Ringers handbell ensemble. Free, but tickets are required.

Contact the Union Box Office at 704.894.2135 to reserve tickets.

7-9 p.m. Davidson College Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, Davidson College, www.davidson.edu MPL Presents: An Evening with Joyce Brown: Appalachian Roots, Poems and Songs (Dec. 9) North Carolina writer Joyce Brown will read from her new books poetry, sing, and play Appalachian music that’s inspired her life’s work. Free. 6:30 p.m. Youth Services Community Room, Mooresville Public Library, 304 South Main Street, Mooresville, www.mooresvillenc.gov/225/Library

Family

Visit with Santa at Silly Chickens Lodge (Dec. 4) Mr. and Mrs. Claus are teaming up with Little Smiles, a local nonprofit that works with terminally ill children. Please bring a child-themed blanket from Wal-Mart, Target, or Kohl’s to donate. Stay for photos in the festively decorated lodge with Mr. and Mrs. Claus—don’t forget your camera! Register for your spot at https://www.signupgenius.com/ go/10c0f45ada622a0fc1-silly2. Free; blanket donations requested. Silly Chickens Lodge, 1307 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy., Mooresville.

Theatre

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some) (Dec. 2 – 19) Instead of performing Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday classic for the umpteenth time, three actors decide to perform every Christmas story ever told — plus Christmas traditions from around the world, seasonal icons from ancient times to topical pop-culture, and every carol ever sung. A madcap romp through the holiday season. Adults, $20, Seniors, $18, Students, $15. Thurs-Sat., 8 p.m., Sunday, 2 p.m.

Davidson Community Players, Armour Street Theatre. 307 Armour St., Davidson, www.davidsoncommunityplayers.org..

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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 140 Gateway Blvd.

Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638

Cardiology

PHC – Cardiology Jips Zachariah, MD

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

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

“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

Family Medicine

PHC – Nabors Family Medicine Emily Nabors, MD

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

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

PHC – Sailview Family Medicine Tiana Losinski, MD

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

PHC – Full Circle Family Medicine James W. McNabb, MD Jacqueline Swope, FNP 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 – Lake Norman Ear, Nose, & Throat Keith Meetze, MD Thomas Warren, MD Herb Wettreich, MD Fred New, Jr., ANP

PHC –Northlake Digestive Care Carl A. Foulks, Jr., MD April Lockman, NP

Endocrinology

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

140 Gateway Blvd.

Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638

PHC- Endocrinology Elaine Sunderlin, MD

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

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

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

PHC- Gastroenterology Laila Menon, MD

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

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

Neurology

PHC – Neurology & Sleep Medicine Dharmen S. Shah, MD 359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-873-1100

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

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

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

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

Obstetrics/Gynecology PHC – Lake Norman OB/GYN James Al-Hussaini, MD Laura Arigo, MD Katie Collins, DO Grant Miller, MD James Wilson, MD Nicole S. Wellbaum, MD Coral Bruss, ANP-C Pam Monroe, WHNP-BC

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

Oncology

Southern Oncology Specialists William Mitchell, MD Poras Patel, MD

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

RENEE WANTS TO KNOW

Make a List and

Check it Twice

Shop local and find creative gift ideas this season

by Renee Roberson Photos by Renee Roberson

After watching this community rally in the most inspiring ways to support one another during a global pandemic, I’m more encouraged than ever to focus on our small businesses this holiday season.

Here are just a few ideas in case you would like to do the same:

For the reader in your life:

Main Street Books. What could be better than showing support to an independent bookstore in Davidson that works diligently to spotlight regional indie and traditional authors? If you’re at a loss for a gift idea, MSB also offers a monthly book subscription (choose from The First Edition box, The Paperback Lit box, and The Kid Lit box), gift cards, Bella + Canvas sweatshirts in adult and youth sizes, and more.

Walls of Books. This independent bookstore in Cornelius offers a wide selection of new and used books, and also takes trade-ins so you can get shopping credits for even more books! The store is book lover’s dream, and offers gift cards, board games, book-related merchandise, lithographs featuring designs created from words found in classic novels.

The perfect host gift:

There are so many small businesses that offer gift ideas that will not only be unique but conversation starters. I’ve purchased gifts like bath sets, jewelry, pet accessories, and watercolor prints at Inspired at Lake Norman in Cornelius. The Village Store in downtown Davidson has always been a favorite place to pick up coffee mugs, home décor, candles, wooden sign, and even toys. Nest & Bower at Merino Mill in Mooresville has an assortment of specialty items such as jars of salsa, sweet potato butter, drink mixers, cutting boards, and accessories so cute you won’t even have to buy a bag for your gift (we’ll take those Santa trousers fashioned as a bag to carry our wine in!)

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A Santa-themed wine bag from Nest & Bower, and socks and lithograph available at Walls of Books.

Gifts to also add meaning & beauty: Walking into Home Heart & Soul is like walking into an art gallery, which is perfect because there are beautiful pieces of artwork you can purchase as gifts (or as a gift to yourself), along with scented candles, coffee tables books, and kitchen accessories. Four Corners Framing Gallery in downtown Mooresville also offers a beautifully curated selection of artwork for purchase by local artists. I’m never at a loss when I go into the eclectic The Bungalow Market in Cornelius, either, to browse the barware, picture frames, botanicals and corals, stationary, etc. Last year, I bought my sisterin-law a gorgeous woven basket as a gift.

And if you need the perfect dress or accessory to wear in your holiday photos or to that office party, MINE by Sandy in Davidson and Luna’s luxe micro boutique (located in Home Heart & Soul) have some unique, one-of-a-kind styles that will boost your spirits and help you look your best.

This is just a starting point—I encourage you to be as creative as possible as you’re out shopping this season, and hopefully you’ll find some new favorites while you shop!

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