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Contents — January 2017 —
12 EDITOR’S NOTE
24
14 LAKEVIEW
As medical professionals, we took an oath to help those in need, those who are suffering, and as Syrians, our obligation is to
New businesses and behind-the-scenes
19 LAKEFRONT 19
Blank Slate De-clutter your life for the New Year
22 Q&A Finding your ‘new you’ with Rosie Molinary
62
assist people in the
best way possible, regardless of our political views.”
24 Recipe A healthy start with kale
27
Social Scene From Santa to puppy walks
—Dr.FirasKassaab,arheumatologist withCarolinasHealthcareSystemanda speaker for SAMS (page 48).
36 Calendar The top five events this month
38 FEATURES 38
Winter Warmer Cozy chilly-weather looks
48
Helping Hands
66
Students aim to make a difference in Syria
57 LAKESHORE 57
Healthy Appetite Dole Nutrition Institute makes food that is nutritious and delicious
62
Racing to Brew Concord’s fast-paced brewing scene expands
66
January 2017 $3.95
Caribbean Crush St. John’s historic Caneel Bay beckons winter-weary travelers
On the cover WINTER WARMER Cozy and comfortable style for the season
80 Snapshot
Plus: CHEERS! CONCORD’S NEWEST BREWERY OPENS NEW YEAR, NEW YOU: TIPS FOR A FRESH START
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Model RJ styled by Stacee Michelle and shot on location at The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery. Clothing details are on page 42. Photo by Joseph Bradley
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Editor’s Note
S
Sometimes we all just need to start over. A blank slate, fresh start—whatever you want to call it, a do-over button
would be useful to have in life. Whether we say something we don’t mean, forget to follow through with a friend, or never kept up with that hobby we started at the beginning of 2016, we’ve all got a few things from the past year we wish we could redo. And there’s nothing wrong with that. As one year comes to an end and another begins, I tend to get introspective—
looking back on things I wanted to accomplish, projects I left unfinished, and where I thought I would be, looking ahead from the start of the last year. I find it helpful to take some time and reflect on how I’ve changed over the year and things I wish I had done differently. Looking at mistakes (or reactions to them) are easy ways to identify areas of improvement and where to start in 2017. Rosie Molinary, author of Beautiful You: A Daily Guide to Radical Self Acceptance, says we spend too much time focusing on what we plan to do, rather than the kind of person we plan to be. I like her way of thinking about it. Changes in our lives aren’t solely based on tangible tasks we complete, but rather on ways you can grow as a person. Her advice offers some great ways to kick off the new year with a restart button (you can find her tips on page 22).
Katie Coleman, Editor kcoleman@charlotteobserver.com
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LUNAHZON PHOTOGRAPHY
I’m going to take it—and I hope you’ll find some inspiration there, too.
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Lakeview — Connected —
New Year, New Business Head to Cornelius for the lake’s latest addition: What the Cup. Owned by Kristin Credle and Rebecca Younce, What the Cup is a charming coffee shop full of style and has the feel of a neighborhood hangout. Check it out for yourself at 19915 Jane Crump Way in Old Town Cornelius.
of The Charlotte Observer, A McClatchy Publication ANN CAULKINS Publisher SARAH CROSLAND Executive Editor KATIE COLEMAN Editor CAROLINE PORTILLO Associate Editor TRACIE STAFFORD Creative Director
ZOE GILLESPIE Account Executive 704-358-5423
Coffee Course Want to learn more about your morning cup of coffee? Get to know your favorite brews at Summit Coffee’s latest venture, Coffee At Home, an education series. On Jan. 7, the series is offering two three-hour courses: Better Brewing (all about pour overs) and Espresso + Milk (learn the ins and outs of coffee-based drinks). www. summitcoffee.com/product-category/gifts.
DONNA GORDON Director of National Advertising and Magazine Lead 704-358-5280
JANUARY 2017 VOLUME 35, NUMBER 1 Lake Norman Magazine is published 12 times each year and is available free to residents and visitors of Lake Norman. The entire contents are fully protected by copyright. Unauthorized use of logos, graphics and copy in any form is prohibited. Advertisements created by Lake Norman Magazine may not be reproduced without permission. Lake Norman Magazine is wholly owned by The Charlotte Observer, a McClatchy Publication.
Behind the Scenes Check out what goes into producing one of our photo shoots with behind-the-scenes video of our fashion feature on page 38. Stylist Stacee Michelle takes you on the other side of the camera at The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery and talks about the latest in men’s winter fashion. Watch it online at www.stacee-michelle.com.
CONTACT US Lake Norman Magazine 550 S. Caldwell St., 11th floor Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 358-5000 Email: kcoleman@charlotteobserver.com Online: www.lakenormanmagazine.com To order photo reprints, visit bit.ly/buyphoto
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Lakefront — What’s In Season —
A
Clean Slate
THINKSTOCK
Among top resolutions people make every New Year is to de-clutter—from the house to schedules. The problem is how to get started. We turned to Jenn Baxter, who started her blog, Live a F.a.s.t. Life, after getting rid of 80 percent of her belongings and moving into a 160-square-foot tiny house. Baxter also offers an online course, “De-Clutter, De-Tox, De-Stress,” to teach others about how to clean up their lives. Here she shares her top five tips for a fresh start. (continued on page 20)
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Lakefront
Five Tips for a Fresh Start in the New Year Give yourself permission.
Get rid of “one-hit wonders.”
It may seem like obvious or slightly ridiculous advice to give yourself permission to de-clutter. But in reality, it’s a very necessary first step. Most people hold onto things that represent other versions of themselves—someone they could’ve been, someone they thought they should be, or even someone they once were. But none of those versions are the authentic you, so that means the clutter is serving you no purpose.
Another source of clutter, particularly in the kitchen, is what I like to call “one-hit wonders”—items that only serve one very specific purpose. This can include things like a waffle iron, cake ball maker, sandwich iron, popcorn popper, or rice cooker. These types of items take up a lot of space, yet they’re usually only used on rare occasions (if ever). Stop wasting money on these types of items and clear them out of your cabinets.
Go digital.
Don’t ask if something is useful. Ask if it is useful for YOU. When people go through their clutter, they tend to evaluate whether they should keep an item or not based on its usefulness. But that is a big mistake. Most everything you have probably still is useful! But that doesn’t mean you have to keep it.
Stop planning for worst-case scenarios. A lot of clutter tends to come from “what if” situations. What if I gain weight again and need those larger-size jeans? What if I end up back in a 9-to-5 job and need those suits again? Or what if I live somewhere with a pool again and need all those cleaning supplies? If you plan for every worst-case scenario, you could end up with five houses’ worth of clutter.
A lot of clutter can be cleared out of your home by going digital. Books, movies, and music can all be purchased digitally on your computer or other device, which means you can get rid of the physical Jenn Baxter items. Plus, you can move old family photographs onto DVDs, which take up a lot less space than a bunch of albums and frames. Clear out your filing cabinet and mail bin by scanning documents, business cards, and files onto your hard drive and shredding the paper copies. And make sure to sign up for online bill services, online magazines and newspapers, and an online notetaking app like Evernote to keep all of your paper clutter to a minimum. Baxter’s courses cost $197 for individual programs, or $497 for the three-course bundle. Sign up at www.declutterdetoxdestress.com.
The Warehouse PAC in Cornelius is launching another series of film classes to kick off the new year. The classes, held on consecutive Wednesdays, will explore a different classic film each week followed by discussion on cultural and cinema arts aspects. Registration for the course includes viewing notes and a guide to film appreciation. Class begins on Jan. 4, and each session goes from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Featured films include: “The General,” “North by Northwest,” “Day for Night,” “Alien,” and “Wings of Desire.” Tuition for the course and movie screenings is $40 for individuals and $70 for couples. Each student can bring a guest to one class for a $10 fee. Register online at www.warehousepac.com. 20
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF VENDORS
FILM FEST
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Q&A
New Year, New You The art of self-care and saying “no” in 2017. by CHRISTINA RITCHIE ROGERS
T
The start of a new year can be tough, swirling with regrets, missteps, and resolutions to do better this year. Too often we focus on what we plan to do, rather than on who—and how—we want to be, says author, teacher, and self-acceptance guru Rosie Molinary. The author of three books, including Beautiful You: A Daily Guide to Radical Self Acceptance (Seal Press), Rosie also teaches a course on body image at the UNC Charlotte, serves as a national Dove Self-Esteem Project educator, and leads workshops and speaks about topics such as self-acceptance, body image, self-care, media literacy, the Latina experience, and intentional living. We sought her insight on how to start the New Year right—with intention, a sense of worthiness, and plans for healthy growth.
What’s your take on New Year’s resolutions? Are they helpful or harmful? Our culture is really rooted in starting the new year with a list of resolutions. I love lists—I live off lists—but lists are telling us what to do and they’re not very heart-centered. New Year’s resolutions can be good if you start with looking at what you most want for yourself. Who do you most want to be? And what will it allow you to have, if you are that way? And then, what should you do to get there? How should we navigate the push-and-pull of striving for self-improvement, but having good self-esteem; of feeling worthy as we are, but not complacent? I like to emphasize that we are all worthy and enough simply because we were born. Worth is our birthright. So what we’re trying to achieve in life is not worth, but growth. On your blog you discuss the practice of choosing a word for the year. Do you still
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do it? And why is it so helpful? Choosing a word for the year really gives me an intention, and that intention gives me an internal resolve and a desire to move toward something that will serve me better as I continue my journey of growth. I like to get still at the end of each year and say, “What do I want more of in my life? What do I want less of in my life? What do I need right now more than anything else? If the next year were to go the way that I most wanted it to, what does that look like and what does that feel like?” How do you define self-care, and why do so many people struggle to make it a priority? Self-care is the practice of noticing and honoring your spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical needs. We tend to think of self-care as these big acts, like, “I’m going to have a spa day!” but I think actually the most effective self-care happens in small, quiet moments. It’s when I stop and say, “Wow, my IT band really hurts—let me massage it for a minute,” or “I feel
dehydrated, let me get some water and be conscious about how much I’m taking in.” These little moments added up become an emotional and physical revolution for us. You say knowing when—and how—to say no is imperative for self-care. How can people get better at saying no? I talk a lot about self-acceptance. I talk a lot about self-care. And with both of those I have to talk about saying no. We too often use a very liberal, permissive approach to what we say yes to, and I think we need to be so much more discerning. We’re all here on purpose, so if you’re doing something half-heartedly, then it’s really somebody else’s purpose to do that thing. If you say no, you allow that thing to become somebody else’s yes. Find Rosie’s six steps to saying no, her words of the year, more info about her books, and other insights on her website, www. rosiemolinary.com.
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Recipe
Healthy Start by JENNY BRULE
S
Switch up your sauté method and start with a cold pan. Gently warming the olive oil with the garlic ensures even cooking, allowing the essential oils to really blossom without the chance of burning. All greens (collard, mustard, turnip, kale, Swiss chard, and spinach) pack a significant nutrient wallop. This recipe retains most of kale’s nutrients because of the quick-cooking method of sautéing.
Garlicky Kale with Cashews ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 3-4 fat garlic cloves, minced (equaling 2 tablespoons) ½ cup chopped, roasted, and salted cashews 12 cups chopped, fresh kale (stems removed) ½ teaspoon kosher or sea salt Lemon wedge
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Place the olive oil and the garlic into a room temperature Dutch oven (large, lidded pot). Do not preheat the pot beforehand. Set over medium heat, and allow the oil and garlic to slowly warm for about 2 minutes. When you can smell the garlic, add in the cashews and sauté just 1 minute, then add in the kale and salt. Turn the kale so that the cashews are on top. Sauté for 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and reduced in volume. Remove
from the heat, and squeeze the lemon over it and put the lid back on. Allow the kale to “rest” (sit in its own residual heat) for 5 minutes before serving. Slice peeled beets and carrots into thin strips or small, thin pieces. (Shape doesn’t matter, but you do want to cut the vegetable pieces to similar size.) Toss with green onions, and then toss well with dressing. Just before serving, toss with toasted walnuts and crumbled blue cheese.
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SocialScene — Out & About —
O DANIEL COSTON
On Oct. 20, the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame held its 2016 induction ceremony at the Kannapolis Performing Arts Center. The N.C. Music Hall of Fame’s purpose is to recognize, promote, and commemorate the musical heritage of the state. This year, there were eight inductees: The Band of Oz, Chuck Brown, Rhiannon Giddens & the Carolina Chocolate Drops, David Holt, Percy Heath, Kellie Pickler, Ron Tyson, and The Avett Brothers (pictured here).
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Social Scene
by JENN BAXTER
Fourth-Annual PuppyUp Lake Norman Walk The PuppyUp Foundation held their fourth-annual fundraiser walk at Daveste Vineyards on Nov. 5. The two-mile walk promotes awareness of canine cancer and raises funds for cancer research to benefit both pets and people. The local group raised $15,000 for comparative oncology research, bringing their local total to $60,000 in four years.
Team Sheepie raised $2,500 for canine cancer research and walked in honor of Bonnie Wheeler beloved pet Bear.
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Cindy Karlowitsch volunteers to organize PuppyUp annually and brings her family in honor of her beloved boxer that she lost to cancer.
Walkers and their pets line up to start the two mile walk. As they finished they were rewarded with a pupcake.
PHOTOS BY GRANT CURTI AND SAMANTHA WARD PHOTOGRAPHER
Paula Wilson and Riley Clowers, both of Huntersville, served as the Grand Marshalls. Both are cancer survivors.
Captain Lou 441 served as the emcee.
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Merry and Bright Birkdale Village Santa arrived at Birkdale Village on Nov. 12. The celebration also included the first lighting of the Birkdale Christmas tree, a parade, vendors, and live entertainment. The event, which was emceed by Ace and TJ of 96.1, benefits Grin Kids, an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of terminally ill or chronically disabled children.
Santa arrives in a vehicle from Hendrick BMW Northlake
Channel 96.1 VIP section at Red Rocks CafĂŠ
The Silhouettes from Grand Central Academy of Performing Arts in Cornelius
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PHOTOS BY SELENA MEIXNER AND WAYNE-WHITE.PIXELS.COM
Girl Scout Troop 739 from Cornelius
james funeral home
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Veterans Day Celebration The Town of Cornelius and American Legion Post 86 held their annual Veterans Day Program at the Cornelius Veterans Monument at Rotary Plaza and the Cornelius Town Hall lawn on Nov. 11. The program honors military veterans and those currently serving in the Armed Forces, and included a welcome from Cornelius Mayor Chuck Travis, a 21 gun salute by American Legion Post 86, patriotic songs by W.A. Hough High School’s Concert Choir, and special performances by country music artist and Army veteran Rockie Lynne.
Mayor Chuck Travis
Country music artist and Army veteran, Rockie Lynne.
Peter Blaich and scouts from Cub Scout Pack 72
Mr. Washam and Mayor Chuck Travis.
St. Mark Catholic Church’s Christmas Bazaar St. Mark Catholic Church in Huntersville held its 11th-annual Christmas Bazaar on Nov. 19. The event raised over $17,000 and included 70 vendor booths and over 40 different raffle baskets. Proceeds from the event go to the church’s homeless ministry, Room at the Inn, its Alzheimer’s Respite ministry, playground renovations, and the general needs of the church.
Robin Weyrens and Pam Hester
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Carolyn Brooks and Janet Laube
Barry, Pam, and Hailey Hester
PHOTOS BY JODY CLARK, CATHY CHRISTIANSON, AND HAILEY HESTER
Susan Evilsizer with guests making cards for the military.
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Carolina Raptor Center’s GoWILD! Benefit CRC Development Coordinator Connie Cann and GoWILD! guests with their door prize.
PHOTOS BY CONNIE CANN
Carolina Raptor Center’s annual GoWILD! fundraiser on Nov. 12 was the best the Center has held yet, grossing $58,729. The money raised from GoWILD! provides formal education programs that serve more than 27,000 students annually, ranging from prekindergarten to veterinary school. The center’s goal is to increase interest in STEM topics and encourage students to pursue careers in science. GoWILD! was held at The Palmer Building and featured music from RevelWood Mission and food from La-tea-da’s.
Emcee Matt Olin, CRC Executive Director Jim Warren, and board member Cinde Monsam with Random Acts.
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Calendar
calendar compiled by CLAIRE KUHLKIN
THE TOP 5 JAN. 8
Coffee & Paint: If you’re like us, these are two of your favorites (especially the coffee). Check out the first group art class at Randy’s BBQ in Troutman. They provide the venue, paint, canvases, brushes, you name it. Just bring some caffeine and creativity. All the paintings will begin with the same idea and will morph in to your vision as you create something beautiful and unique. 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. 103 North Main St., Troutman. www.eventbrite.com.
JAN. 9
My Life Under Hitler: Join the Mooresville Public Library for this opportunity to hear firsthand what it was like in Germany during the time when Hitler was in power. This moving speaker, Frederick Folkerts, will describe what it was like growing up in Wuppertal, Germany during World War II. The event is free and begins at 10 a.m. in the Selma Burke Room. 304 South Main St., Mooresville.
JAN. 19
The Beloved Tour: If you’re a fan of Christian artists Jordan Feliz, Dan Bremnes, and Grayson Reed you cannot miss out on this opportunity to see all three of these chart toppers together in concert. You’ll hear hits like “The River,” “Never Too Far Gone,” and many more. Admission starts at $15 and the performance begins at 7 p.m. at Elevation Church in Cornelius. 8325 Copley Drive. www.transparentproductions.com.
JAN. 24
Laura Boosinger & Josh Goforth: Lovers of folk music will not want to miss this amazing performance from two world-renowned artists. Josh Goforth is a Grammynominated musician, acclaimed fiddler, guitar picker, mandolin player, and storyteller from Madison County, N.C., while Laura Boosinger is one of the most acclaimed banjoists and singers in the North Carolina folk tradition. Their long-time collaboration has been called “simple, direct, and as good as it gets,” by Sing Out Magazine. 323 Concord Road, Davidson College. www.davidson.edu.
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JAN. 31
Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana Presents—Poema De Andalucia: Flamenco Vivo Carlota Santana is America’s premiere flamenco dance company. Join them for this performance that chronicles the culture and traditions of the Andalusian provinces of Spain. You’ll be amazed at how colorful, varied, and stylized this form of dance can be. Enjoy this journey through the traditions, festivals, and rituals of this region of Europe. 207 Faculty Drive, Davidson College. www.davidson.edu.
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Cover Story
Winter Warmer Things are heating up this season—and not just from sippingtastybrews.There’sno needtostayinsidewhenyoucan bundleupwiththesecozycrispweather essentials. Photos by JOSEPH BRADLEY Styled by STACEE MICHELLE Stylist Assisted by JANAE EDMONDS Modeled by RJ, BRENDAN HENNESSY, and CHADWHITTINGTON Shot on location at THE OLDE MECKLENBURG BREWERY
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Right: JACHS, tartan plaid shirt, $89; JACHS, gray and navy baseball jacket, $219; Scotch & Soda, lightweight chino pants, $125; Two Guys’ Bowties, gray felt fedora, $195, all from SILVERFLY. Tortoise shell sunglasses, $118, J. Crew. Briar oil slick leather boots, $259.99, Redwing Heritage.
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Left: DL 1961, ‘Cooper’ fatigue green 360 technology cargos, $198; J. Lindeberg, Piemonte raw felted jacket, $595; Stone & Rose, multicolor plaid shirt, $149; Stone & Rose, camo knit sweater, $179, all from Revolution Clothier & Co. Clark’s, Brown leather chukkas, $100, Belk. Right: Observe wax jacket, $749, Barbour. Scotch & Soda, Brushed checkered shirt, $115; JOES, Brixton straight and narrow jeans, $189, both from SILVERFLY. Goorin Brothers, Cabbie hat, $30, Revolution Clothiers & Co. ‘Barron’ black chukka boot, $200, Cole Haan.
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Mackage, ‘Vlad’ down jacket, $750; Kinetix, ‘Bad Habits’ burnout charcoal tee, $52; Hudson, ‘Blinder’ biker patchwork destructed jeans, $285, all from Revolution Clothiers & Co. Thursday Boots, Captain boots, $199, SILVERFLY.
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Left: Black denim jeans, $459; Quilted blazer with insert, $890; Los Angeles Nappa Tec Flex Black Edition, $525, all from Porsche Design. Right: Kardo, ‘Carlos’ gray button-up, $120; JACHS New York, Checkered Herringbone Vest, $135; JACHS New York, Checkered Herringbone Slacks, $125, all from Revolution Clothiers & Co. Shwood, wood frame handcrafted sunglasses, $159, SILVERFLY.
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Sand of Copenhagen’s, Red Shetland Check Blazer, $595; ARSNL, Black workout shawl hoodie, $29; TOPO, diamond snapback cap, $32, all from SILVERFLY. Wallace and Barnes, Selvedge skinny jeans in raw indigo, $175; Tortoise shell sunglasses, $118, both from J. Crew. Briar oil slick leather boots, $259.99, Redwing Heritage.
fashion
Duel gender drape drape cardigan, $62.50, EcruFashion. com. Feathered wide neck tee, $28, Urban Outfitters. Black knit infinity scarf, $39.90, Zara. Light gray destructed skinny jeans, $34.99, H&M. ‘Malcolm’ travel crusher fedora, $50, Original Chuck.
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fashion
TOPO Designs, red gingham plaid shirt, $129, SILVERFLY. Hudson, ‘Blake’ slim straight denim, $195; Goorin Brothers, ‘Good Boy’ sage fedora, $60, both from Revolution Clothiers & Co. Tortoise shell sunglasses, $118, J. Crew.
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Get the Look SILVERFLY 1111 Metropolitan Ave., #150 Charlotte 980-819-7216 www.silverflybrands.com J. Crew Northlake Mall 6801 Northlake Mall Drive Charlotte 704-597-0392 www.jcrew.com Redwing Heritage 5720 Concord Pkwy S. Concord 704-454-5899 www.redwingheritage.com Revolution Clothiers & Co. 227 East Blvd. Charlotte 704-971-1990 www.shoprevolution.com Cole Haan Charlotte Premium Outlets 5512 New Fashion Way Charlotte 704-350-2396 www.colehaan.com Belk Northlake Mall 7115 Northlake Mall Drive Charlotte 704-598-2771 www.belk.com Porsche Design SouthPark Mall 4400 Sharon Road Charlotte 704-366-5900 www.porsche-design.com Urban Outfitters SouthPark Mall 4400 Sharon Road Charlotte 704-366-7497 www.urbanoutfitters.com H&M Northlake Mall 6801 Northlake Mall Drive Charlotte 855-466-7467 www.hm.com/us
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Feature
Helping Hands
Syrian students aim to start local chapter of medical relief organization. by CHRISTINA RITCHIE ROGERS • photos by ERIC POUND
T
Though the war in Syria may seem far away for many living in the greater Charlotte area, for Adam Morin and Mohammed Willis it hits close to home. Both juniors at Davidson College, and both of Syrian heritage, they are fierce advocates for Syrian relief efforts on campus and in the greater community. This year they aim to start a Carolinas chapter of the Syrian American Medical Relief Society (SAMS) to connect the “far away” crisis and victims
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with more people who can help. A non-political, non-religious 501(c)3 organization, SAMS helps millions of Syrians and Syrian refugees each year. Though early in the chapter process, already Morin and Willis have raised more than $10,000 in donations from campus and community members, and garnered the support of more than a dozen area physicians. They hope to recruit at least 10 more in the coming months.
“As medical professionals, we took an oath to help those in need, those who are suffering, and as Syrians, our obligation is to assist people in the best way possible, regardless of our political views,” says Dr. Firas Kassaab, a rheumatologist with Carolinas Healthcare System. He has worked with SAMS in the past as a medical conference speaker, and has been instrumental in recruiting area medical professionals to support the local chapter Morin and Willis
Mohammed Willis and Adam Morin standing in front of a work by Syrian artist Etab Hreib. Dr. Firas Kassaab
Alia Nassri
Dr. Mohamad Sekkarie
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aim to start. Morin, a pre-med student, traveled to Jordan last summer on a medical mission trip with SAMS—a mission Willis helped fundraise for—and there he saw firsthand the “disheartening medical conditions” at the camp to which he was assigned. He also saw firsthand the work of incredible volunteers and the impact SAMS is having. “The people need ongoing medical help—the kind SAMS can provide,” Morin says. According to SAMS Treasurer Dr. Mohamad Sekkarie, in the first nine months of 2016, members of the organization treated about 2.7 million Syrians in Syria, Turkey, Greece, Lebanon, and Jordan—providing everything from major surgeries and childbirth assistance to primary, pediatric, dental, and psychosocial care. The cost per patient averages about $9. In addition to the physicians who assist on medical mission trips and the medical supplies it provides, SAMS also focuses a lot of its efforts on advocacy and education. Members have met with Congress and U.N. organizations to report on the crisis in Syria, and others have published
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reports in prestigious medical journals on such topics as the practice of war-time medicine. The projected budget for 2016 is $30 million, and 96 percent of the organization’s expenses are for relief and programs, with just 3 percent for fundraising and 1 percent for management. That means that nearly all of the funds raised go directly to helping people. Willis lives in Richmond, but has family in Syria, including five half-siblings ranging in age from 3 to 16, whom he helps support financially and worries about constantly. With Willis’ family ties and Morin’s hands-on experience, the two knew they wanted to support the organization and decided that starting a new chapter was the best way to do so. “I hate the term ‘activism,’” Willis says. “It carries this negative connotation and conjures images of a bunch of students marching around waving posters, but not having any real impact.” Conscious of the distinction between passive activism and real impact, Willis and Morin remain focused and realistic in their endeavors, identifying specific ways
to alleviate suffering. And right now they believe that raising money and starting a local SAMS chapter will yield real results. “Starting a chapter here is something that I had in mind in the past, but didn’t have the time to do,” Dr. Kassaab says. “I’m glad there are energetic, excited students working on it and I will continue to support them in their efforts.” Morin and Willis officially launched their initiative to start a SAMS chapter of the Carolinas on Dec. 3 at Davidson College. They hosted a dinner and silent art auction, featuring traditional Syrian dishes and art by Syrian artists, to raise money and awareness of SAMS’ impact and to draw interest from potential volunteers. More than 100 people attended the event, including physicians, members of religious groups, resettlement agency employees, and Davidson students and staff. Donations and art auction proceeds exceeded $10,000, all of which went to SAMS. The event was sponsored by the U.S. State Department and featured speakers including Charlotte Refugee Resettlement Agency consultant Alia Nassri, a Syrian refugee family recently resettled in
Charlotte, SAMS Treasurer Dr. Sekkarie, and Morin and Willis. Ms. Nassri offered insight into the refugee process before introducing the refugee family. There are 4.8 million registered refugees, mostly in Jordan, Turkey, and Lebanon, she said, and the process to get resettled can take years. The need for refugee assistance is huge, she said. She then translated for the family members who spoke in Arabic about their grueling experience over the last three years. “After hearing from the speakers, many people said it made the war seem real to them,� Willis says, and that was the ultimate goal: to humanize refugees and incite real, impactful activism by giving people tangible needs and practical ways they could help. LNM
More Information Want to support SAMS? Visit the website, http://www.sams-usa.net/, or donate online at www.foundation.samsusa.net/donate.
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The List
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Medical Professionals A special advertising section showcasing some of Charlotte’s top medical professionals.
H E A LT H S M A R T P H A R M A C Y Giving back to the community was Doug Balog’s main goal when he opened HealthSmart Pharmacy in Mooresville; he wanted to bring durable medical supplies at cost-effective prices to the people of his town. Unlike other pharmacies, at HealthSmart, customers are able to personally interact with Doug, who is at the pharmacy 90 percent of the time. The pharmacy also delivers to Mooresville, has a private consultation room for pharmacist visits, has both generic and name-brand medications, compounding, and offers unique medical products.
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PRECISION FITNESS & C ATA LY S T AT H L E T I C R E H A B
Are you an athlete looking to gain that competitive edge or struggling to get back to peak condition after an injury? Maybe you’re among the millions of folks searching to find the right way to fit an effective exercise program into your hectic day? Or are you simply fed up with feeling unhappy about your current state of health and fitness? Precision Fitness and Catalyst Athletic Rehab and Performance have experts on hand to make your goals a reality. Since opening in 2001, Precision Fitness (Catalyst Rehab is located inside Precision Fitness) has improved the health, fitness, and performance of clients that range from the professional athlete to the student athlete and from fortune 500 executives to stay-at-home moms. All coaches and therapists on staff are highly credentialed and experts in their field, like Bill Meritt, PT, OCS, Cert. DN, FAAOMPT of Catalyst. Bill is one of the area’s most highly credentialed orthopedic physical therapists and one of only 27 orthopedic manual therapy fellows out of 7,000 physical therapists in the state. Services available include advanced manual therapy, including spinal and extremity joint manipulation, neuromusculoskeletal dry needling, massage therapy, rehabilitative exercise interventions, and cutting edge fitness and athletic development coaching. 5:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday by appointment 18515-C3 Statesville Road, Cornelius, NC 28031 704-662-8664 • www.pfitcentral.com 980-721-6419 • www.catalystathleticrehab.com JANUARY 2017 lakenormanmagazine.com
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C A R O L I N A O R A L A N D FA C I A L S U R G E R Y
Drs. Michael and Patrick Coleman and Dr. Michael Foran of Carolina Oral and Facial Surgery have been serving the Lake Norman area for more than 30 years. They ensure patient satisfaction through experience, technology, and a well-trained, caring staff. The doctors all specialize in bone and tissue regeneration, as well as dental implants. The 3D imagery technology, which the practice has had in-house since its inception, allows the doctors to diagnose and plan cases at the highest degree of accuracy. This technology produces high quality images with a small amount of the radiation exposure, at a fraction of the price of a CT scan at a hospital, and it only takes 16 seconds. The practice’s staff take pride in providing exceptional service and care to patients. Along with the state-of-the-art technology, the practice’s doctors bring experience and expertise. All three doctors are Diplomates of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and continue their education and training annually with courses related to anesthesia, dental implants, soft tissue, and bone grafting techniques. Trust your dental implants or oral surgery to the experience and reputation of Drs. Coleman, Coleman, and Foran. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday 19910 North Cove Road, Cornelius, NC 28031 704-892-1198 • www.carolinaoms.com
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E XO D U S H E A LT H
When people want to lose weight, they tend to choose gimmicks and tricks in the hopes to drop weight quickly. At Exodus Health, Drs. Brandon and Natalie Mahaffy DC strive to equip their patients with the knowledge and education that teaches sustainable actions for health that lead to a lifestyle change. Exodus focuses on the five pillars of health, as a result, many peoples’ chronic diseases, thyroid issues, diabetes, and weight loss problems have been resolved. While some people focus on only one or two, the practice uses Peak Lifestyle, a wellness program, to teach about stress, hormones, and health. As stress can cause physical, mental, and emotional problems, Dr. Mahaffy’s goal is to place people’s bodies and mindsets in the position to allow their health to flourish. Exodus Health uses a systematic approach to put together a curriculum that fits the individual clients’ bodies for optimal results. Instead of standard medical practices, Exodus puts together its weight loss curriculums using science. The practice assesses what body type and/or hormonal imbalance a patient may have and then builds a system to test and follow-up with to ensure clients are progressing toward their health goals. To participate in Exodus Health’s free stress, hormones, and health gourmet dinner seminar on Tuesday, Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. or Monday, Jan. 30 at 7 p.m., at Waterford Hall. RSVP at 704-584-9299 as there’s limited seating.
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PREFERRED VENDORS SECTION
L A K E S I D E N E U R O LO G Y At Lakeside Neurology, Dr. Lori Schneider offers her patients a holistic approach by combining the best of traditional medicine, with the best of alternative medicine. Dr. Schneider specializes in adult general neurology, covering headaches, dementia, Parkinson’s Disease, neuropathy, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and neck and back pain. She offers patients a full line of FDA approved medical foods and natural supplements for the treatment of insomnia, obesity, chronic pain, joint pain, fatigue, hypertension, and viral illness. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Thurs.; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday 19615 Liverpool Pkwy., Suite A, Cornelius 704-896-5591 • www.drlorischneider.com
C H A R LOT T E G A S T R O E N T E R O LO G Y & H E PATO LO G Y Top 5 Reasons to Get a Colonoscopy 5. Lose five pounds in just one day. 4. Have one of the best naps you’ll ever take. 3. You’ve always wanted a “belfie” but couldn’t get the right angle. 2. Fasting the day prior gives you permission to get the milkshake and the fries after the procedure. 1. It can save your life. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths, but is among the most preventable. Get screened. Appointments: 704-377-0246 General Information: 704-377-4009 Locations in Mooresville, Huntersville, Charlotte, Matthews, and Ballantyne www.charlottegastro.com
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Lakeshore — Cuisine. Entertainment. Travel. —
Culinary Creativity Research at Dole Nutrition Institute in Kannapolis is making nutrition science accessible—and delicious. by MICHAEL J. SOLENDER • photos by ERIC POUND
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Cuisine
Director of Culinary Nutrition Mark Allison
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It turns out your mother was right: eating fruits and vegetables really is good for you. And there’s an army of nutrition scientists in Kannapolis at the Dole Nutrition Institute conducting research demonstrating the connection between the phytochemicals—plant compounds such as antioxidants—found in fruits and vegetables and their ability to help reduce risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. “One of the best weapons in the arsenal against disease is the body’s own protection mechanisms,” says Nicholas Gillitt, vice president of nutrition research at the Dole Nutrition Institute. “These mechanisms are enhanced by the vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables.” Gillitt heads a team of researchers and educators whose mission is to inform consumers about the benefits of fruits and vegetables in their daily diets. The research lab was established in Kannapolis in 2009 as part of the NC Research Campus, a public/private partnership exploring many aspects of plants and human nutrition, health, and performance.
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The 350-acre NC Research Campus—known as the intersection of human health, nutrition, and agriculture—was founded by David H. Murdock, CEO of Dole Foods. Murdock has dedicated his life to finding a cure for cancer and extending life through fruit and vegetable nutrition. Academic partners include UNC Charlotte, UNC Chapel Hill, North Carolina State University, Appalachian State University, N.C. A&T State University, and Duke University. Despite the growing body of research on the health benefits of increased fruits and vegetables in our diets and the admonishments of mothers all across America, increasing consumption rates remains challenging. That’s why in 2015, the Institute turned to chef and culinary educator Mark Allison to use simple, quick, and tasty recipes to engage with consumers and motivate the public to cook healthy meals filled with fruits and vegetables. The classically trained chef is the former dean of culinary arts education at Charlotte’s Johnson & Wales University.
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Healthy, delicious food Allison brings a very personal connection to his educational mission and role of director of culinary nutrition. “Eighteen years ago, after learning my son developed juvenile diabetes at 14 months, my philosophy about eating changed,” says Allison. “I began to look at food as a health vehicle. When I started doing research and looking at healthy food, I found it was rather bland and not sexy or exciting. I focused my career on creating healthy food that was delicious.” For Allison, that meant unusual flavor combinations. His “Coffee Fix on the Go,” for example, blends espresso, raw almonds, filtered water, bananas, and ice into a morning (or anytime) smoothie that is packed with flavor and nutrients. In 2008, Allison’s wife was diagnosed with Stage 4 carcinoid cancer and given three to four years to live. He redoubled his efforts on healthy diet and eating, using fruit and vegetable nutrition he says helped prolong his wife’s life eight years beyond her diagnosis. “We came to the conclusion that a plant-based diet was the way to go,” Allison says. “We eliminated processed foods, cut way down
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on meats and dairy, and looked at fruits and vegetables as the main source of our diet.” Since joining the Dole Nutrition Institute, Allison has been busy developing healthy recipes, conducting cooking demonstrations and presentations, and championing the benefits of healthy eating through programs such as “Get up and Grow.” The community outreach program celebrates healthy eating and features recipes, samples, and demonstrations at markets across the country. As for Allison’s top tips on eating healthy: “My philosophy is pretty simple,” says Allison. “Buy fresh, singleingredient foods. Don’t be afraid to experiment or make mistakes in the kitchen. Incorporate colors into your diet—select from the wide array of colorful fruits and vegetables and try new foods. Cut back on animal protein and sugar. And get the family involved in shopping and cooking. The benefits are lifelong.” LNM For Allison’s recipes and additional information visit www.dolegetupandgrow.com/recipes.
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Entertainment
RACING TO BREW Concord’s third brewery was born out of homebrewing. by SAM PERKINS • photos by JUSTIN DRISCOLL
From left, Joel Padgett (operations manager), Wes Ports (business partner), and Eric Troutman (brewer).
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It should be no surprise that in an area with fast-moving cars, its people move quickly as well. In June 2015, a Concord City Council ordinance amendment opened the frontier for breweries. Just 16 months later, Concord has its third brewery: Twenty-Six Acres. Born of and run by Cabarrus natives—Joel Padgett (operations manager), Eric Troutman (brewer), and Wes Ports (business partner)—it opened to the public on Oct. 15, 2016. “That [ordinance amendment] was crucial for breweries in Concord,” says Troutman. “After it was announced, it was bang-bangbang; they all just started popping up. We knew it was coming. They had talked about it at the homebrew meetings for months.” The larger Charlotte region’s craft brewery boom has spawned dozens of breweries, first in the heart of industrial Charlotte, followed by an eruption up I-77 on the east side of Lake Norman. Up I-85, High Branch Brewing opened in Concord in Gibson Mill in November 2015; Cabarrus Brewing opened a literal stone’s-throw away (also in the expansive Gibson Mill) in March 2016. “Twenty-Six Acres” refers to the fact that Concord was established on 26 acres of land. The site was determined in 1795 by N.C. House Speaker Stephen Cabarrus after local German and ScotsIrish settlers could not agree on a location. Twenty-Six Acres is 8,700-square-feet and just off Derita Road, sitting strategically on the Cabarrus-Mecklenburg border in the
middle of the increasingly busy area north of Charlotte, between I-77 and I-85. There are no other breweries in this area, which seems prime for such a destination given the proximity of Concord Mills, Charlotte Motor Speedway, Concord Regional Airport, multiple NASCAR research facilities, and densely populated Highland Creek and Skybrook neighborhoods, among others with plenty of potential patrons residing, or at least commuting, conveniently past Twenty-Six Acres. “We liked all the drive-by traffic. And it’s about 25 minutes everywhere you go; Concord, Huntersville, Davidson—25 minutes,” says Padgett, himself a resident of Highland Creek.
Revving Up Starting a brewery proved no easy task, especially with extra layers of red tape for alcohol. It was even more difficult in an era before breweries were such a resounding success as they have been in recent years. But Padgett, a software engineer who built and recently sold his own company, waited for just the right moment to catch the right wave. “I’ve probably wanted to do it for 15 years,” Padgett says. “The capital was almost impossible to raise. The banks laughed. About a decade and a half ago, I gave it a couple of goes at talking to people, what does it take to do it, doing a little bit of research here JANUARY 2017 lakenormanmagazine.com
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and there. We didn’t have the means—I have young kids—to put in time, then to leave another job and [open a brewery]. People at that time weren’t doing that as much. That phased out when [breweries] became a viable business. Banks gladly loan you money now. The brewing industry had become a known profit maker. There’s empirical data, whereas before, you were throwing darts, and it would be slow money.” In addition to investors, Padgett needed good product and a brewer to make that product. He joined the Cabarrus Homebrewers Society (CABREW), and that’s where he met Eric. “So much of this beer environment that happened in Concord happened through CABREW,” says Padgett. “We hung out some, went to Asheville and did a weekend of breweries, really just tried to see if we liked the same things about beer, did we get along.” Troutman adds, “We had a grand time, hit 14 breweries.” Padgett had homebrewed primarily with friends for 20 years but wanted to focus on operations and find a more advanced brewer. Troutman had been brewing for only nine years but was receiving rave reviews and even national awards. “Everyone tells you, ‘Your beer is great, you should start a brewery,’” says Troutman. “But then people I didn’t even know were having my beer and saying, ‘Have you ever thought about starting a brewery?’ So I thought about it.”
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Currently, Troutman is also working full-time as a web engineer and media specialist for Carolinas Healthcare System. At some point, the 80-hour weeks will end, and he will move to brewing full-time. As popular as craft beer has become, Troutman and Padgett recognized craft beer has flavors that are bold and new for many consumers. They needed to produce beer that would be both high quality and approachable, so they performed extensive research. They bought a two-barrel system from a defunct brewery in St. Louis and set it up in Padgett’s garage; the setup is even visible in Google Street View. “I made four or five IPAs, and we had a blind tasting panel. We even snuck in a double IPA and a Goose Island Brewing IPA. We invited investors and close friends,” Troutman says. “We had people that don’t like beer, don’t like IPAs,” Padgett adds. “That was crucial.” Still, they covered the spectrum, Troutman says. “And it was good to have the people that predominantly drink IPAs that said, ‘Well this one didn’t have enough dry hop, the hops weren’t sticking out on the nose,’ or, ‘It wasn’t bitter enough.’” They also spoke to other brewers, including TJ Creighton at High Branch and Matt Glidden at Ass Clown Brewing Company in Cornelius, which is the region’s oldest brewery outside of Charlotte.
Successful Start After navigating common brewery frustrations in time, money, and logistics with zoning, construction, hop contracts, and obtaining the imperative Federal Tax and Trade Bureau and local ABC licenses, Twenty-Six Acres is now open with more than a dozen diverse beers on tap. Distribution is in the near future. “We’ve had a lot of requests from Concord and Charlotte,” says Troutman. But for now, they are focusing on making their beer consistently on the 15-barrel system and on the taproom, Padgett says. “It was a high priority to make a comfortable place for people to come in. We wanted it to be kid friendly, dog friendly, family friendly, craft beer friendly. We truly want our neighbors coming.” That shouldn’t be difficult. Twenty-Six Acres hosts multiple food trucks for Concord’s Food Truck Friday. There’s usually a food truck on site. Food is often the No. one inquiry of new patrons, and like many new breweries, they have embraced the mutually beneficial relationship. They’re also looking to add event space and a rotating special release (a la NoDable Releases) on the “Tater Tap,” derived from Troutman’s nickname. Other Concord breweries are in the pipeline. Red Hill Public House just opened as Concord’s fourth brewery after years of serving as a gathering spot, including for CABREW meetings. Momentum and success are only building. Nonetheless, Troutman is in awe. “It is an extremely humbling feeling to sit here in this brewhouse, look out, and there be 300 people in here, and they’re drinking the beer that I brewed, and they’re liking it, and they’re paying for it.” www.26acres.com LNM JANUARY 2017 lakenormanmagazine.com
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Travel
Caribbean Crush Warm sand and sea breezes await guests on St. John. by SARAH CROSLAND
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There are plenty of sleek, new resorts dotting the Caribbean’s white beaches. But if you’re looking for charming over trendy, and laid-back over in-vogue, Caneel Bay’s breathtaking and historic property on the island of St. John beckons.
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Do Many couples and families have been traveling to Caneel Bay resort for decades—and with good reason. The resort features a seemingly never-ending supply of fun activities right at your fingertips. Its crystal-clear waters teeming with brightly colored fish are ideal for a morning of snorkeling or diving. Adjacent to the resort, the national park is filled with winding and wooded paths, calling for a hike to gorgeous views. From spending the day on the beach playing in kayaks with the family to getting in a little alone time with yoga in an open studio overlooking for water, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the resort’s more active offerings. But after you’ve spent an afternoon in the sun, there’s no better spot to relax and soothe your sun-soaked skin and tired muscles than in one of the resort’s massage cabanas. The secluded cabanas open to the water, offering soft ocean breezes as you relax under the expert hands of one of the resort’s spas therapists. If you’ve spent too much time in the sun, try the Aloe Wrap, which moisturizes and heals, leaving your skin revitalized and glowing. For the ultimate island experience, though, try the Seashells by the Seashore massage. It features smooth, heated seashells used to gently massage your skin, leaving you in a state of serene bliss.
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Eat There are a variety of restaurants at Caneel Bay and you’ll want to experience them all. But plan on starting your vacation with an evening at Zozo’s at The Sugar Mill. Set on a hill among 18th-century sugar mill ruins, Zozo’s has views across the water to surrounding islands. It’s a stunning spot to watch the sunset, but even more beautiful after dark when the lights from the other islands sparkle on the horizon. Sip wine inside the circular open-air restaurant and indulge in decadent dishes like fresh pappardelle with wild mushrooms and white truffle cream or slow-simmered veal shank with saffron risotto. For the perfect beach-day bites, check out the Caneel Beach Bar & Grill. It’s open-air as well and features a casual setting for grabbing a midday bite in your bathing suit or for unwinding after an afternoon on the water. While much of the menu is along
the laid-back lines of burgers, tacos, and pizza, be sure to sample some of the impressive sushi menu’s fresh and inventive rolls. Or if you prefer your vacation calories to be served in a glass, settle in at the beachside bar. Sample the local St. John Brewery’s Mango Pale Ale, a crisp beer with a slightly sweet flavor, or indulge in a selection of classic Caribbean cocktails full of rum and fruit. Plan on spending at least one evening exploring the nearby colorful waterside town of Cruz Bay. There are numerous restaurants lining its lively streets, but for an unexpectedly sophisticated dining experience, stop in Extra Virgin Bistro. The elegant restaurant is dedicated to sourcing local ingredients, including herbs grown on site. For the ultimate cosmopolitan-meets-local dish, try the fresh yellowfin tuna carpaccio with pickled cantaloupe and fresh chives. JANUARY 2017 lakenormanmagazine.com
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Stay Now a Rosewood resort, Caneel Bay’s 170 acres were once owned by Laurence Rockefeller. The preservationist ultimately donated 5,000 acres surrounding the retreat to create the Virgin Islands National Park. Today, the 60-year-old resort still feels remarkably untouched by the Caribbean’s tourist crowds. Goats, deer, and donkeys graze among its grassy beachside hills and woods. And seven beaches spread around the property mean that you’re often likely to have secluded stretches of pristine sand all to yourself. The resort was designed to enjoy those beaches and soak in the island’s tropical bliss. Lapping waves, swaying palm trees, and the quiet whir of a ceiling fan in the Caribbean breeze are the only noises in this natural setting. Rooms, which feature stone and wood décor, are free of distractions like telephones or televisions. Need something to watch? Step onto your private terrace for panoramic views of the lush grounds and azure sea. GETTING THERE: American Airlines offers non-stop 3.5hour flights to the nearby island of St. Thomas. Caneel Bay then transports guests from St. Thomas via a private 35-minute ferry ride—with rum punch, of course—across the water. LNM
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Health & Wellness Providers
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Health & Wellness Providers
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Snapshot photo by STEVE WILLIAMS
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orth Charlotte resident Steve Williams was taking a hike in the nearby Latta Plantation when he looked up and snapped this photo. While walking around a cove, he was drawn to the color of the sky against the bare trees.
Send photos for consideration to kcoleman@charlotteobserver.com