SERVING LAKE NORMAN
You really do learn something new every day
As a professional purveyor of words, it isn’t every day that I come across one totally unfamiliar to me. But when I do, it’s heaven. Part of being a journalist by trade is having an insatiable sense of curiosity, so when I come across a word or phrase new to my noggin, I can’t wait to dig into its definition, figure out its derivation and share it with others.
Much like parents have a favorite child (come on, admit it), I confess I have a favorite word. It’s “kerfuffle,” and I’ll never miss an opportunity to use it. The dictionary description of kerfuffle is as an informal noun meaning “a fuss; commotion.” It’s fantastic – when I think of a fuss or commotion over something, I picture a literal dust-up and I think “kerfuffle” is exactly what it would sound like when a bunch of brats are acting up and stomping their feet on the ground. Which is why “phlegm” is also a top favorite of mine – it looks and sounds exactly like what it describes.
So, guess what happened when an interior decorator friend of the magazine introduced me to the word “barndominium?” I had to know what that was and what on earth they were good for, and she did not disappoint. Michelle McKoy took me on a tour of a barndominium in Mooresville that is just one of about a half-dozen in its community, built by those who need a little (strike that, a lot) more space to store their motorized toys or create a dream workshop. Flip to Page 26 to see what I’m talking about – it just might be a new concept to you, too ... and maybe something you didn’t even know you needed?
Here’s another one, and I’m chalking my ignorance of this phrase up to not being invited to very many weddings recently. Have you had the opportunity to enjoy a “mixology station?” No? Me neither, and it’s probably a good thing since I tend to make a bit of a heavy pour. It’s a recent trend at wedding receptions to cut down the line at the bar by letting guests mix their own drinks at a separate bar area. Think everything from mimosas to margaritas to a bourbon tasting bar. It’s just one of many bridal trends we write about in our 2025 bridal trend feature starting on Page 18.
And then there’s “unicorn.” Now hang on, of course I’ve heard of this word, but I confess I’ve never heard it used before to describe a small business. Andy Upchurch, owner of Bin 110 in Cornelius, says that’s exactly what his upscale whiskey bar is. I’ve certainly not come across anything like it, and once you learn more about it on Page 52, I’ll bet you’d agree.
Here’s to discovering more new words and phrases and sharing them with the uninitiated. Heck, after a trip or three through a mixology station, I might just be able to invent a few of my own.
— LH Lori Helms Editor Lori@LNCurrents.com
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“Lake Norman’s Best”
Fifteen years ago, CURRENTS created Lake Norman’s first and only Best of Lake Norman contest. A year later, other publications followed suit and many of our local businesses got lost in the confusion of having too many “Best of” contests! To cut down on that confusion, CURRENTS changed the name of our contest to Lake Norman’s Best Awards and we’re asking you, our readers, to nominate and vote for your favorite business in a variety of categories. We’ve also decided to start our contest early this year and give you plenty of time to get your nominations in!
1. Go to our website LNCurrents.com and nominate your favorites from our list of categories.
Nominations will end on March 15.
Voting begins April 1 and ends May 15. Only one vote per URL so be sure to encourage all of your customers, family and friends to vote!
Winners will be announced at a special Awards Gala in June.
Each winner will be showcased in a very special edition of CURRENTS called Lake Norman’s Best!
And as an added incentive to encourage you to vote, CURRENTS will conduct monthly drawings for all those who nominate and vote. Five lucky readers will win a $100 gift card to use at their favorite
FINDS FOR
Springtime
2. Bunny Family - $39 3. Tulip Ornaments - $6
4. Bunny Topiary - $89
Wreaths - $79 and up
6. Placemats & Tabletop - $7 and up
7. Flameless Candles - $19 and up
Bridal
Trends for 2025
The region’s experts share what’s up and coming
by By Lori Helms
As a bride many moons ago, and as a mother who within the last few years had to plan a wedding, I thought I was pretty familiar with all things nuptial. Find a venue with an open Saturday sometime in the next decade – check. Select a caterer or restaurant for a Friday wedding party-only rehearsal dinner – check. Spend the equivalent of a small European country’s GDP on a cake no one will eat and flowers that will die in a few days – check. All matters of course for a ritual that has evolved over thousands of years to what I thought I understood as par for the course.
But it was a recent conversation with Chris Boukedes and Tara Creedon of Bouk Management in the Lake Norman area that brought me up to speed quickly on what I thought I knew – but clearly didn’t – about all things trending in the bridal industry. Bouk Management, among other things, offers its extensive venue and catering services and expertise to local brides, and Creedon tells me that one of the recent and significant changes to wedding traditions comes to us courtesy of the pandemic we’d all rather forget.
“One of the latest trends was born out of COVID,” says Creedon, describing what couples went through when having to reschedule the big day thanks to closed venues, restricted travel and all the other insults the pandemic hurled our way. “It started a push for weddings on Fridays. ... It’s a little less expensive to do a rehearsal dinner on
Thursday and rent a venue on Friday.” She says it allows for Saturday and Sunday as a kind of decompression time for the wedding party to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family, and it gives wedding venue owners and catering companies an added revenue source for nights that would normally go unscheduled.
“I love it as a venue owner,” Boukedes says, “because normally you only have 52 Saturdays. Now, in my mind, I have 104.”
Creedon says there have also been changing trends in catering, as operators are now easily able to offer menus that accommodate a variety of dietary needs (such as gluten-free) and food allergies. She says there is also a move away from full bars to a small menu of specialty cocktails, and the shunning of an elaborate (and expensive) wedding cake for a smaller cake for the cutting ceremony paired with mini-desserts or dessert stations.
At the Charles Mack Citizen Center in Mooresville, Arts and Events Manager Christine Patterson is seeing similar trends, including the weekday wedding option. She says couples are also “focusing on guest-centric weddings, creating immersive experiences with personalized welcome gifts, interactive entertainment and curated dining options. ... We’re seeing a rise in custom wedding menus, loungestyle receptions and unique entertainment like live painters and mixology stations,” Patterson says.
Find the dress that “tells your story” at Classic Bride’s studio in Huntersville.
Left, a decked-out room at the Charles Mack Citizen Center.
Nothing brings out the beauty of the bride more than just the right dress. Trends come and go over the years – everything from several layers of lace and tulle to revealing minis to mermaid cuts and corsets. But Classic Bride bridal studio in Huntersville says they take that all in stride when it comes to dressing the 2025 bride.
“We don’t just follow the bridal trends, we set them!” says owner Phaedre Pistone. “From timeless elegance to modern glam, our new Huntersville location is where your ‘yes’ moment begins. Come find the dress that tells your story.”
Hang on a minute, let’s not forget about the gentlemen. Ed Wheeler, owner of The Back Room in Mooresville, says there are shifts in men’s fashion this year that can’t be ignored. He’s got some great recommendations available at his upscale retail men’s apparel boutique.
“Looking toward 2025, we will witness a shift toward effortless elegance in groom and groomsmen fashion,” he says. “Slimmer silhouettes, tailored fits and attention to detail in terms of fabric and construction are key elements of this trend. Classic suits with clean lines and minimalistic designs are favored, emphasizing a timeless and refined aesthetic.”
Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue ... but what about something lakeside? The folks at Visit Lake Norman believe that while certain bridal trends will ebb and flow, the chance to celebrate with family and friends near Lake Norman’s beautiful waters will never go out of style.
“The allure of a waterfront wedding remains timeless, with couples drawn to scenic views and versatile venues,” says Cyndi Bartley, Director of Operations & Marketing at Visit Lake Norman. “As multi-day celebrations and destination weddings rise in popularity, Lake Norman offers the perfect backdrop — complete with charming hotels, short-term rentals and thoughtful touches like our complimentary branded wedding bags for guests in Cornelius, Davidson, and Huntersville.”
To contact Bouk Management, send an email to chris@boukmanagement.com or visit www.boukmanagement.com. The Charles Mack Citizen Center is at 750 W. Iredell Ave., Mooresville. Call them at 704.799.4029 or visit www.experiencecmcc.com. Classic Bride is at 16325 Northcross Drive, Suite C, in Huntersville. Book an appointment by calling 704.896.3655 or online at www.classicbrideandformals.com. The Back Room is at 119 N. Main St., Suite 102, in Mooresville. Call 704.664.1424 or visit www.thebackroommensclothier.com. To learn more about what Visit Lake Norman can offer, contact Travis Dancy at 704.987.3300 or visit www.lakenormanweddings.org.
Faux florals are a fabulous alternative to expensive flowers - for the bride, the wedding party and the venue.
A slim fit tuxedo is one of the latest wedding attire trends for men.
Jayna Welch
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Project
Cinderella
Rolling out the red carpet at prom time
by Bek Mitchell-Kidd
Project Cinderella was started four years ago by Olivia Johnson, at the time a senior at Lincoln Charter School in Denver, as a student-led club that connects girls with free prom dresses.
“Project Cinderella closely follows Lincoln Charter’s community expectations including service, responsibility, empathy and respect,” says Lois Strain, Lincoln Charter administrative assistant and Project Cinderella club advisor. Olivia’s sister, Ayla, now runs the club with the support of parents, staff (including the facilities team who help set up the space) and members of the community who volunteer their seamstress skills. Project Cinderella is open to anyone who needs a formal dress – not just Lincoln Charter students.
and support while people are looking for a dress. We even offer private appointments if someone is uncomfortable coming in at an event and would rather come in separately.” The club accepts donations year-round and encourages people to drop off their gently used items at either of the Lincoln Charter campuses.
“The first year we only had about eight people come,” says Ayla. “Project Cinderella has now grown to have around 100 people per year. This year we have already reached almost 50 girls and we have only hosted one out of our two events.”
The “shopping event” is complimentary; the formal dresses, shoes and accessories are all either gently used or were purchased new and donated.
“We literally roll out a red carpet at our events,” says Strain. “When the first group of girls met four years ago, they decided they wanted it to be special — not just get a dress and go. The club sets up the event to make everyone comfortable, it is an experience. We serve snacks and drinks (trying on dresses is hard work!). There is always a backdrop to take pictures, plenty of mirrors and lots of support to find the perfect dress,” she says, and Ayla agrees.
“At Project Cinderella, we try our hardest to make everyone feel as comfortable as possible,” she says. “We have a group of girls who offer help
“Last year, parents at the school wanted to help Project Cinderella and did not have dresses to donate,” says Strain. “We established a way for those who were interested to make monetary contributions. These funds are used for dry cleaning and potentially purchasing dresses if we need specific sizes that we don’t have in stock.”
The club continues to see participation grow with some recipients returning every year, as well as new friends who appreciate the opportunity to find the perfect dress.
“I have always told the club – if we have just one girl come and get a dress, and leave happy, we will be successful,” Strain says.
The next Project Cinderella events will be Friday, March 14, from 3:30 to 7 p.m.; and Saturday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Lincoln Charter School Denver Campus is at 7834 Galway Lane in Denver.
photographs courtesy Lincoln Charter School/Lois Strain
Students with Project Cinderella have several gowns just waiting to be scooped up for prom.
This barndominium in Mooresville boasts two floors of living space, including two full kitchens, at least three bedrooms, three full baths and enough room for all of your toys.
A Place for Everything ...
Not many things in life are a safe bet. But in the towns that hug the Lake Norman shoreline, you can almost guarantee that if you see ground being broken for new commercial construction, it’s likely a storage unit complex waiting to take shape. Yeah, I know. Another one.
Clearly, us lake area denizens have a lot of “stuff” worthy of keeping but maybe not getting top billing as worthy of taking up precious space in our homes. But what do you do when that stuff includes everything from valuable car collections to expensive recreational toys to all the gear required to outfit your ideal workshop or the man cave of your dreams?
More and more, folks are turning to the option of a barndominium to house all these luxuries. So, for the uninitiated (I had to throw myself into that group), what is a barndominium? Before visiting one recently, I turned to the interweb of things to get an idea of just what I would see.
“Barndominiums are an increasingly popular phenomenon as they offer versatility in their design and function while being economical, low maintenance, and energy efficient,” writes Lauren Risotto in an online article for Western States Metal Roofing. In addition to the vast amount of square footage dedicated to the storage or display of
... and everything in its ‘Barndo’ place
by Lori Helms photography by Patrick Hood Photography
car collections or tricked-out workshops, the creature comforts of kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and living spaces are also close by.
“The living area can include the same comfort and amenities you would find in a regular home from the basics of plumbing and electricity to the more luxurious including a second story, open floor plan, vaulted ceiling, and even a wraparound porch,” she writes.
It’s a trend that has definitely taken hold in the Lake Norman area, with small communities such as the Brawley Flats group of “barndos” just off Brawley School Road in Mooresville taking shape.
Interior designer Michelle McKoy of Michelle McKoy Designs gave me a tour of one recently, in which she decorated the living spaces of both floors. It was built by local builder Willis Spivey of Spivey Construction Company, using a design by Jennifer Pippen of Pippen Home Designs – and it definitely lived up to its billing.
“It’s a different lifestyle,” McKoy says of the type of homeowner who decides to build one. She says barndos are typically not primary residences; rather, in addition to massive storage or workshop areas, they often are used as either a living space for out-of-town visitors, a rental income source, or even the most well-appointed “doghouse” a spouse could be banished to on occasion.
The barndo I toured was a fascinating mix of vehicles, NASCAR collector pieces, sports memorabilia, and the most eclectic collection of vintage mid-20th century novelties – including a Coca-Cola vending machine with those little glass bottles, speakers from a drive-in movie theater and a wooden phonebooth courtesy of C&P Telephone (the former Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company).
The living spaces are spread across two floors, with private entrances for both. On the main floor, there is a full kitchen, two bedrooms, two full baths and living area. Above, there is another full kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and room for the family’s collection of several televisions and enough board games and other fun for a month’s worth of family game night.
Working as a team with Spivey and Pippen, McKoy was involved in the design work for the half-dozen Brawley Flats barndos in Mooresville, saying the builder’s challenge to them was to achieve a more residential feel to the structures by not having any of them look the same. McKoy says that challenge was answered by using decorative exterior wood features and accents as well as a mix of metal, stone, Hardie board and stucco facades.
Learn more about Spivey’s next Lake Norman-area barndominium development in Troutman at www.honeycuttflats.com. For all your interior design needs (not just for your barndo), follow McKoy on Instagram @michellemckoydesigns.
A Community on Wheels
Bringing riders together at The Mill Cyclery
by Lori Helms photography by Jon Beyerle
If you’ve made it this far into 2025 and have yet to hit your goal of finding a new way to exercise or just get yourself outside, the folks at The Mill Cyclery in Mooresville may have just the solution for you.
Lou and Laura Gregori, owners of The Mill Cyclery, had been Mooresville residents for a few years before deciding to open their bike shop three years ago. Lou says even before moving to Mooresville, he had been visiting family in the area for about a decade and had become impressed with all the recreational amenities the region offered – and more specifically, what Mooresville was investing in town facilities and parks.
“Getting
new riders is our goal – to get people on bikes and enjoying the sport, understanding where to go and how to do it safely.”
The Mill Cyclery in Mooresville offers an inviting space and a vast selection of equipment for riders of all ages and abilities.
With decades of experience in the cycling industry under his belt, and a natural knack for connecting with riders of all ages and abilities, Lou made the leap to venture out on his own and in March 2022, he took over an open space in the town’s iconic Merino Mill on South Main Street, and The Mill Cyclery was off and pedaling. It’s an inviting shop with a wall of windows on the old mill’s façade, plenty of display and bike service space and even an area out back to test ride any one of the wide range of bicycles the Gregoris offer.
“We wanted to offer a comfortable place to come in, with knowledgeable and friendly people,” Lou says. “I wanted to keep it kind of an open format. It makes it more social and interactive with customers.” And that interaction is important, Lou says, especially when helping a potential customer who is new to the sport.
“We try to cater to everybody coming in the shop,” he says. “You want to get people as they are just getting into the sport, who want to learn about it and be exposed to it. ... Getting new riders is our goal – to get people on bikes and enjoying the sport, understanding where to go and how to do it safely. That’s the biggest challenge for someone just starting out.”
He says it’s important for him to learn what a customer wants to accomplish with their bike purchase – what kind of riding they want to do and what their expectations are. His goal is to keep them from
possibly riding somewhere they aren’t experienced enough to tackle and then having a bad experience.
He’s found a fun solution to that particular goal and has established weekly social rides throughout the year at Mooresville’s Mazeppa Park. With more than six miles of mountain bike trails, Lou says the park is a great setting to accommodate riders of all skill levels including young children and new riders of all ages. The group rides started out with just a few folks participating, but they’ve since grown to rides with more than two dozen people at times.
“It’s a great way to meet people,” he says about this kind of micro-community he’s created. “All of a sudden, just by being out there, you have this common ground. There is a mutual level of respect and interest for what everyone is doing there.” Lou says it has fostered a real sense of community, and that some of those riders regularly meet up outside of the social rides or create group rides of their own. And that’s easy to do, as he says that within about 45 minutes of Mooresville in any direction, there are more than 150 miles of trails to explore.
Cycling industry veteran Lou Gregori (left) is ready to recommend a bicycle for a new rider or to provide service on an experienced rider’s equipment.
Starting
The Lake’s Best Kept Secret
Sailing group offers opportunity for learning, camaraderie and fun
by
Allison Futterman photography by Jon Beyerle
Have you ever looked at Lake Norman on a beautiful day and wished you could be out there sailing? If you don’t own your own boat or know someone who does, it’s probably not an option. That’s where Lake Norman Community Sailing (LNCS) comes in. This nonprofit organization offers sailing classes and more, making sailing accessible.
“This nonprofit organization offers sailing classes and more, making sailing accessible.“
Ken Cloaninger is a longtime board member and veteran sailor of 50 years. One day, years ago, he was getting ready to buy a small boat when he heard about LNCS.
“I did the math,” he says, realizing that it made more sense to join the organization. He’s enjoyed being a member ever since. Although Cloaninger and some other members are experienced sailors, others are beginners. They have a nice mix of 160 members of varying skill and experience levels.
LNCS offers a “Learn to Sail” class, which teaches people the basics of sailing. Some topics the class covers include fundamentals of sailing theory, the relationship of the wind to the boat, knots, steering, points of sail and maritime rules.
There’s also an ASA (American Sailing Association)101 Basic Keelboat class that includes such topics as proper sail trim and controls, steering, tacking and jibing, boat parts and terminology, docking procedures and more. Participants who successfully complete the class have an opportunity to earn an ASA certificate.
Although their sailing classes are a great community resources, with 220 people taking lessons last year, LNCS has other activities. They offer several types of standup paddleboard classes and a calm water kayaking class. Although there’s a fee involved, you don’t have to be a member to take the classes. For those who want to get more involved, membership is an option. Membership enables people to have access to LNCS’s fleet of sailboats, which includes Flying Scots and Sunfish, as well as access to their stand-up paddleboards and kayaks.
Members can also take part in their Social Sailing activities. Offered Wednesdays and Saturdays, social sailing is LNCS’s popular racing format. It’s an opportunity to learn and gain experience while having fun. Although about half of the participants are proficient, others are beginners — and no racing experience is needed to get involved.
For sailors who just want to get out on the water without a group, LNCS offers open sailing. Any member who is skipper-qualified can check out a boat. Their easy process makes it a convenient way to enjoy time on Lake Norman whenever someone wants it.
Cloeninger and the rest of the board are exploring other options, including further development of a youth program, some non-racing events and a ladies night sailing event. He’s enthusiastic about what LNCS has to offer, which includes the comraderie that comes along with people who share an interest. Friendly and encouraging, LNCS brings people together who love being out on the water.
Lake Norman Community Sailing is based out of Blythe Landing Park in Huntersville. Learn more about what the organization offers by visiting www.lnsailing.org.
Horsemanship Camp: Ages 6-13. Beginners welcome Tiny Trotters Camp: Ages 3-5.
Riding Lessons! Beginners to World Champions! Ages 3-Adult.
Alisha
Alisha Fennell, DVM Alycen Adams, DVM Tracey Ritzman, DVM DABVP
Limitless
For the area’s 55+ adults who place no limits on living their best lives!
Snow days can be loads of fun, but not for one retired high school administrator.
Go or No-Go Snow Days
You can’t make everybody happy
by Mickey Dunaway
As I sit down to write this, it is January 22, and television weathermen throughout the South are predicting a severe winter storm — possibly one for the ages. In the next few days, it will dump significant snow on the deep South (except for Charlotte).
This severe winter weather warning included great gobs of snow forecast for the Gulf coast from Texas to New Orleans to Mobile to Pensacola and on to Charleston, but almost nothing was forecast for Charlotte. Sure enough after it came through Mobile, my brother-inlaw sent pictures from his houseboat on Mobile Bay. He had seven inches on his deck. I was too ashamed to send him pictures of our measly dusting.
Big southern snowfalls like that one can produce legends that last for decades. One of those legendary storms hit Alexander City in 1992, two years before I arrived as principal of the high school there.
Alex City, as it was known to most everyone in Alabama, was the home to the textile mills of Russell Corporation — a typical small milltown of 15,000, where most families had at least one parent who worked at Russell Corporation and one child in the school system. It was the kind of town that, after students graduated from college, they came back home to find work. Alex City was a true small southern milltown where high school football on Friday nights and preaching on Sunday morning were all the socializing that anyone needed.
The town sits on the headwaters of the Tallapoosa River and Lake Martin midway in the state of Alabama (north to south). Lake Martin provides the waters for a hydroelectric dam and some excellent fishing. Weather in Alex City is Alabama-hot in the summers, but usually mild in the winters with a snowfall about every two years. The winter of 1992 was different. A massive, fast moving snowstorm broke the pattern of the typical dusting. The meteoroligists predicted about two inches arriving in Alexander City after the end of the school day. What they did not predict was that the storm would have
huge county-wide pockets of snow six inches and more. Therefore, the storm was much bigger and moving faster than predicted. In the span of an hour or so, at least six inches fell on Alex City.
Now for the rest of the story ... not of snow, but of how the superintendent of schools reacted. After listening to the latest all day predictions of one to two inches, the superintendent of schools, Mr. Harry Foster (name changed to reduce embarrassment!), wiped the sweat from his forehead. It seemed he had dodged a big, fast bullet. He planned to dismiss schools at the normal time.
To cover his bets, Mr. Foster got down the big map of Alabama that was tacked to a wall in his office so that he could track the storm. Information on the movement of the storm was slim. And what data he could find from the TV, was the same as the last bulletin. Mr. Foster decided he could do better, so he began to call the local Highway Patrol Office, figuring they would surely have current information about where flakes were beginning to fall. Then, using his map of Alabama and yard stick the hardware stores gave to teachers at the beginning of each year, he commenced to plot his own version of just when the storm would arrive in Alexander City. He was convinced that his decision to dismiss schools at the ususal time remained sound. He was very wrong.
Within a few minutes after the school buses and high schoolers in their cars were on the roads, the atmosphere dumped its walloping load of snow on the streets of Alex City. Parents panicked. Businesses let employees off early. Didn’t help. They couldn’t find where their children were (no cell phones in those days). Buses and cars slid into ditches. Panicked parents became angry – not at the unpredictable snow, but at one person — the superintendent. For two days, Mr. Foster was glued to his phone, but it was hopeless until it wasn’t.
In the 11 years I was principal of Benjamin Russell High School, we never had a snow like the storm of 1992. In 2002, after a couple of moves
up the ladder, I was appointed as Superintendent of South Gibson County Schools in southern Indiana. In Gibson County, (just north of lovely Evansville), snow came often in my first winter. And, I learned the pressures of the GO/NO-GO snowfall decisions resting on the superintendent. There were three districts in our county and we all agreed that what one system did, we all did.
Our joint GO/NO-GO decision was the easy part. The hard part was talking politely to parents for the rest of the day and defending our decision. Every snow day means parents rush to find sitters for elementary children or worse, call the boss and tell him they would not be in. I understood all of that and how stress on parents and superintendents was multiplied ten times over if the storm was blowing in in the middle of the day.
I understood that I would make more than half the parents angry. Of course students loved it. It was only after they returned to school in a few days that they would find out that schools made up snow days in nice weather in June!
For this column, I talked to my former superintendent who had taken the same job in Kentucky, about how many snow calls he made as a superintendent in Kentucky. His response?
“I called schools off 15 times in my first year!” I breathed a long distance sigh. It could be worse.
A Durable Power of Attorney
The importance of having one and the risks if you don’t
A Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) is a legal document that grants a designated individual, or agent, the authority to make decisions on behalf of the principal, particularly if the principal becomes incapacitated. Only the principal can execute a DPOA. An attorney is unable to assist a family member in creating a DPOA on behalf of a parent or loved one without the participation of the principal.
Ensuring Continuity of Decision-Making
A DPOA is crucial because it ensures that someone trusted by the principal can manage their affairs without interruption. This continuity is vital in situations where the principal is unable to make decisions due to illness, injury or cognitive decline. Without a DPOA, family members may face lengthy, costly and stressful court proceedings to obtain guardianship.
Financial Management
One of the primary functions of a DPOA is to handle financial matters. The agent can manage bank accounts, pay bills, file taxes and oversee investments. This authority helps prevent financial mismanagement and ensures that the principal’s financial obligations are met promptly if they become incapacitated.
The Agent Does Not Control the Principal
A signed DPOA does not immediately transfer all control to the agent. The principal retains authority to manage their own affairs unless they are incapacitated or found incompetent by
a court order. The principal also retains the right to revoke the DPOA.
Termination of a DPOA
A DPOA terminates at the death of the principal and may no longer be used to manage the assets of the deceased principal. A DPOA terminates if revoked by the principal or by a court of law. A DPOA that is executed for a limited purpose or period of time, may also be terminated by the terms of the document.
A Durable Power of Attorney is an indispensable tool for ensuring that a trusted individual can manage the principal’s financial matters seamlessly. Not having a DPOA can create significant challenges and risks, including delays in decision-making, financial mismanagement, family disputes and legal complications.
Louise Paglen is an Elder Law, Estate Planning and Special Needs Attorney with The McIntosh Law Firm, PC. Contact her at 704.892.1699 or at www.mcintoshlawfirm. com/attorneys/.
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Dine + Wine
Eating, drinking, cooking and fun
Endless whiskey options and select craft cocktails are on the menu at Bin 110 in Cornelius.
Photography by Jon Beyerle
An Expansive Sip ...
... and a remarkable experience
By Trevor Burton
Photograph courtesy Trevor Burton
I thought I knew everything about white wine, then I met up with a Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc.
Back a long time ago, my wife, Mary Ellen, and I were in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region doing a little wine exploration. We were both early on in our wine lives, but I was more than comfortable with my knowledge of white wines. I’d been sipping on “elegant” wines, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, and was confident (albeit humbly) of what effect different terroirs had on wine. That was about to change, drastically.
We were having dinner one evening, and there was a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc on the wine list. Mr. Know-It-All thought, quite dismissively, “I’ll give this a try. It should be interesting.” It was much more than “interesting,” it changed my whole wine life. This was a wine with an attitude, a wine that was making a statement.
It was a remarkable experience. The wine needed no help to show its depth. It was extremely complex. For this particular wine, the first sensation was a taste of stoniness. That was followed by leatheriness and mushroomy flavors. All that opened more and more, in the glass and after, with the food that accompanies the wine.
To my more refined mind and palate that had developed over time, it was far more profound an experience than that provided by most Chardonnay- and Sauvignon Blanc-based wines. As I said, it was a remarkable experience.
As an aside, the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region is known for its red
wines. There are some thirteen grapes that can be used in the blends to make Châteauneuf-du-Pape red wine. Some of the grapes are white — smoothing out the harsh contribution of the red grapes to the final blend. So, there are always some white grapes around to make a little — very little — white wine. And what a wine they make.
The most frequently used grapes are Roussanne and Marsanne, probably followed by Grenache Blanc. All the growers have their own preferred blend. Usually, but not surprisingly, growers’ mixes reflect what grows most successfully in their own fields. It makes for a richly various range of wines that are always amazing to explore.
The climate is warmer in Châteauneuf-du-Pape than for typical white wines. Then there is the soil. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is famous for its unique soil. It consists of a top layer of large pebbles, or galets in French. Then there is the plant undergrowth that is typical of southern France, garrigue as it’s called, locally. All of these factors come together to produce a unique style of wine, both red and white. But it’s the white wine that got my attention.
All of this resulted in turning a corner. It changed my whole approach to wine. The world of wine is filled with corners that you can turn around. Each corner is an opportunity for more wine pleasure. It’s good to live a life that has lots of corners.
I’ll be close to the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region in the near future. You can bet that I’ll be seeking out some Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc to sip on. Try some, it may change your viewpoint on wine — it did mine. It opened up a new world of wine. For that, I’m grateful.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc may just change your mind about white wines.
Audiology
Living Well
Your local resource for health and wellness services near you
PHC – Lake Norman Ears, Nose & Throat
Megan Mathis-Webb, AuD
Susie Riggs, AuD
Caroline Millsaps, AuD
140 Gateway Blvd. Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638
Cardiology
PHC – Heart & Vascular
Jips Zachariah, MD
Naveed Rajper, MD
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829
Dermatology
PHC – Mooresville Dermatology Center
Naomi Simon, MD
Kristin Prochaska, PA-C
Gina Noble, PA-C
Julia Parsons, PA-C
Susan Stevens, RN, BSN 128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1827
PHC- Lake Norman Dermatology
Joel Sugarman, MD FAAD
Allison Hanley, PA-C
Melissa Moser, PA-C
Betsy Benton, PA-C
140 Leaning Oak Drive, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117 704-658-9730
PHC – Wolfe Dermatology
Steven F. Wolfe, MD
Molly Small, PA-C 114 Gateway Blvd., Unit D Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-663-2085
Riva Dermatology
“Imagine your skin at its Best!”
General Dermatology for the Family, Botox, Fillers, Laser/IPL & more
Kerry Shafran, MD, FAAD
Lindsay Jayson, MPAS, PA-C
Erin Dice, MPAS, PA-C
Ashley Noone, MPAP, PA-C
Nikki Leahy, MSBS, PA-C
Mari Klos, CMA, LME 704-896-8837
Cornelius, Mooresville, Denver www.Rivaderm.com
Ears, Nose and Throat
PHC – Lake Norman Ears, Nose, & Throat
Keith Meetze, MD
Thomas Warren, MD
Herb Wettreich, MD
Fred New, Jr., ANP 140 Gateway Blvd. Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638
Endocrinology
PHC- Endocrinology
Elaine Sunderlin, MD
Emylee Brown, PA-C
170 Medical Park Road, Floor 3 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506
Family Medicine
PHC – Nabors Family Medicine
Emily Nabors, MD 142 Professional Park Drive Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-696-2083
PHC – Lake Norman Family Medicine
Timothy A. Barker, MD
Bruce L. Seaton, DO
Amanda H. Bailey, DO
Kyle Babinski, DO
Bilal Khan, DO
Sherard Spangler, PA 357 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-7328
PHC – Sailview Family Medicine
Tiana Losinski, MD
Alexander Watson, DNP
206 Joe V. Knox Ave. Suite J Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-360-4801
PHC – Fairview Family Medicine
Golnar Lashgari, MD
Erica Vollano, FNP-BC
146 Medical Park Road, Suite 210 Mooresville, NC 28117 •704-235-0300
PHC - Troutman Family Medicine
Amrish C. Patel, MD
Janeal Bowers, FNP
Kimberly Whiton, FNP
Jeanne Pierce, PA-C 154 S Main Troutman, NC 28166 • 704-528-9903
Gastroenterology
PHC – Gastroenterology
Brandon Marion, MD
Aerielle Sibert, PA-C
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-878-2021
PHC –Comprehensive Digestive Care Center
Vivek Trivedi, MD
Venu Gangireddy, MD
Tiedre Palmer, FNP-C
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-878-2021
PHC- Gastroenterology
Laila Menon, MD
Gabrielle Miller, PA-C
170 Medical Park Road, Floor 3 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506
Internal Medicine
PHC – Fox Internal Medicine
Jessica Fox, DO
Stephanie Michel, PA-C
435 East Statesville Avenue Mooresville, NC 28115 • 704-663-5056
PHC – Internal Medicine & Weight Management
Manish G. Patel, MD
Julie Abney, PA
Andrea Brock, PA-C
128 Medical Park Road, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-658-1001
PHC – Lake Norman Internal Medicine
John C. Gatlin, MD
Swathi Talla, MD
548 Williamson Road, Suite 6 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-660-5520
Mental Health Services
PHC-Mastor Mental Health
Jason E. Mastor, MD
Kristin C. Brown, PA-C
Megan I. Flott, PA-C
Diana J. Remenar, PA-C
206 Joe V. Knox Ave. Suite F Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-662-6500
Neurology
PHC – Neurology & Sleep Medicine
Dharmen S. Shah, MD
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-873-1100
PHC – Lake Norman Neurology
Andrew J. Braunstein, DO
Ryan Conrad, MD
Craig D. DuBois, MD
Roderick Elias, MD
124 Professional Park Dr, Ste A Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-662-3077
PHC – Lake Norman Neurology
Andrew J. Braunstein, DO
Ryan Conrad, MD
Craig D. DuBois, MD
Roderick Elias, MD
9735 Kincey Avenue, Ste 203 Huntersville, NC 28078 • 704-766-9050
Obstetrics/Gynecology
PHC – Lake Norman OB/GYN
James Al-Hussaini, MD
Laura Arigo, MD
Grant Miller, MD
James Wilson, MD
Nicole S. Wellbaum, MD
NailaRashida Frye, MD
Krisandra Edwards, FNP-C
Alyssa Clay, DNP, FNP-C
131 Medical Park Road, Suite 102
Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-663-1282
Oncology
Southern Oncology Specialists
William Mitchell, MD
Poras Patel, MD
46 Medical Park Rd, Suite 212 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-659-7850
Orthopaedic Surgery
PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint
Brett L. Feldman, MD
Alex Seldomridge III, MD
Travis Eason, MD
Julie Glener, MD
Kim Lefreniere, PA-C
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829
Orthopedic Surgery – Spine
PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint
Alex Seldomridge, III, MD
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1838
Pain Managment
PHC – Pain & Spine Center
Harsh Govil, MD, MPH
Nathan Barkley, FNP-C
Samuel Sackenheim, NP-C
April Hatfield, FNP-C
Gracie Kern, PA-C
359 Williamson Road Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-235-1829
Physical Medicine & Rehab
PHC - Spine & Sports Medicine
John Lesher, MD, MPH
170 Medical Park Road, Suite 302 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9506
PULMONOLOGY
PHC –Pulmonology
Enrique Ordaz MD
Jose Perez MD
Ahmed Elnaggar, MD
Vishal Patel, MD
170 Medical Park Road, Suite 201, Mooresville NC 28117 • 704-838-8240
Rheumatology
PHC – Rheumatology
Sean M. Fahey, MD
Dijana Christianson, DO
Janice Clayton, FNP-C
128 Medical Park Road, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-658-1001
Take a Flavorful Detour
Greek-inspired meatballs will get you there
by Kathy Dicken photography by Kathy Dicken
Lamb Meatballs with Green Goddess Dip
Looking to jazz up your standard meatball recipe? Give these Greekinspired lamb meatballs with creamy Green Goddess dip a try. They’re super simple to whip up and can be baked in the oven in under 15 minutes. Pair them with rice or orzo, avocado and cucumber, and you’ve got yourself a winning meal.
These meatballs take a detour from the classic Italian version by using lamb along with some tasty Greek herbs and spices that really bring out that rich, earthy flavor. If you’re hesitant about trying lamb, trust me — it’s a fantastic change from beef and has so much more flavor.
Green Goddess dressing makes a terrific sauce to pair with the meat. It’s creamy with a delightful herb kick, making it the perfect partner for the lamb’s rich and robust flavor. Besides using it as a sauce, Green Goddess functions wonderfully as a salad dressing.
To serve, spread the Green Goddess sauce on plates. Add the rice, meatballs, avocado, cucumber and greens. A light drizzle of fresh lemon juice will enhance the flavors just before serving. These meatballs also make a great appetizer — just serve on a platter with the Green Goddess sauce. Enjoy!
Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Kathy Dicken lives in Huntersville and is the author of The Tasty Bits food blog. For more meal ideas that are simple and delicious, you can follow her blog at www.thetastybits.com or on Instagram @thetastybits.
Ingredients:
1 lb. ground lamb
1 small red onion, finely chopped
3 cloves minced garlic
2 teaspoons parsley, finely chopped
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1 small lemon zest, grated
1 large egg, beaten
1/4 tsp. mint (optional)
Green Goddess Dip
3/4 cup fresh flatleaf parsley leaves
1/4 cup basil pesto
1/3 cup sour cream
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 medium green onions, chopped
2 drained canned anchovy fillets
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Combine all of the meatball ingredients together in a large bowl. Use a large fork or your hands to combine well. Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes. Roll the mixture into 12 large meatballs and place them on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.
Bake meatballs on the highest rack for 7 minutes. Then flip the balls on the other side and bake for another 7 minutes until browned and cooked through (or until reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees).
While meatballs are baking, add all dip ingredients to a small food processor and blend for about 1 minute. Transfer mixture to a bowl, add salt and pepper to taste, then cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Note: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
‘Not Another Place Like Ours’
Bin 110 is Lake Norman’s unicorn
By Lori Helms
Photography by Jon Beyerle
There’s not a small business on the planet that doesn’t like to stake their claim in or put their individual stamp on the local market. That would be commerce malpractice if they didn’t. But during an enjoyable chat with a particularly engaging small business owner recently, I think I heard the best tagline yet.
“We are literally a unicorn in this area,” says Andy Upchurch, owner of Bin 110 in Cornelius. “There’s not another place like ours.”
And after learning about his place, I think he makes a great case. Upchurch says Bin 110 is one of the largest whiskey bars in the entire state. Offering more than 450 whiskey labels, more than 100 different wines (with about 60 of those available by the glass thanks to the bar’s Coravin wine preservation system), a creative and growing craft cocktail menu as well as a full kitchen, Upchurch says based on his knowledge of the industry, it’s likely that Bin 110 is the largest whiskey bar in the Southeast.
Upchurch says that’s been the goal along, since he and his wife, Tallie Upchurch, first established the bar about seven years ago. Not only did they want the business to become a top-rated whiskey and wine bar, but they’ve also spent every minute of that time adhering to what he calls their guiding principle and the mantra that defines every decision they make.
“If we didn’t own it, would we still go there?” he says in describing what defines their business model and core belief. Upchurch says it’s important to always keep in mind how he would want things to go if he and his wife were guests, with the concept of people always having choices during their visit as a close second.
“No one should have to give up,” he says. As proof, he ticks off a long list of popular gins, tequilas, vodkas (and obviously the whiskeys and wine), as well as menu offerings such as charcuterie boards, BBQ beef sliders, baked brie and shrimp cocktails. “No matter what you
In addition to the hundreds of whiskey label options, Bin 110 guests can choose from a small plates menu (such as this flatbread) as well as delicious craft cocktails.
“No matter what you like, we’ve got something good in that area...”
like, we’ve got something good in that area,” he says.
And speaking of choices, Upchurch hosts several events on a regular basis. There are whiskey tastings each month, one or two wine events every quarter and a comedy night on the third Wednesday of each month. In addition to the ability to host private parties as well as offer live music every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night by local and national artists, Bin 110 has got you covered.
A unicorn, indeed.
Whether it’s whiskey, a curated selection of fine spirits or one of more than 60 wine labels available by the glass, there is something for everyone at Bin 110.
Welcome To Tijuana,Mooresville
What is it about Mexican food that motivates us to seek out this treasure trove of delectable south of the border dishes? Is it the fresh ingredients, the colorful aesthetics and olfactory pleasures of a mouth-watering plate? Is it the countless possibilities of creative fusion found in combining traditional recipes with a sassy new twist? Or is it simply the right combinations of the sweet, the savory and the spicy?
If you’re looking for a top-notch Mexican eatery, one achieving critical acclaim and customer praise, Rio 150 Mexican Restaurants, based out of Tijuana, Baja California, is where you’ll find great food, a cheerful staff, and owners who take pride in their offerings and fulfillment in their endeavors. Voted one of America’s Best Restaurants in 2023, Rio 150 stands out as a must-try experience serving the Lake Norman community. The business is owned and operated by Rashel Limper, her husband Dylan, her parents Ruben and Martha Soule, as well as her uncle Guillermo Ceballos. Rio 150 has been operating since 2015 and currently has two locations.
“Our food is traditional Mexican, authentic and hand-crafted using fresh ingredients,” says Limper. “Our prices are fair and reasonable. We’re a family business with two generations of varied experience and visions; functioning as a team, we figure it out and we make it work.” Limper can be found managing the North Church Street location in Mooresville. She’s been in the restaurant business since she was 14 years old, working then as a hostess, learning over time the ins and outs from top to bottom, preparing herself for greater responsibilities. Several years later, she stepped up to partner with her uncle Guillermo, owner of what was then La Unica Restaurant in Mooresville.
“I found out that managing and owning are two different things,” says Limper. “That’s where I learned how to ‘swim.’”
Rio 150’s menu offers breakfast all day options including a broad selection of quesadillas, chilaquiles, burritos, omelettes and more. Traditional lunch and dinner items are varied and numerous. Fajitas, pollo asado, enchilada verdes, arroz con pollo, ceviche, and caldos (soups) and salads are but a few examples. For the adventurous, tacos
By Tony Ricciardelli
Rio 150 Mexican restaurant offers authentic favorites and more
tripa (tripe) and tacos lengua (beef tongue) are available. Vegetarian dishes are also an option.
Favorite dishes include quesabirria tacos (slow roasted tender beef inside a crispy pan seared tortilla, stuffed with cheese, onion and cilantro) – the order comes with three tacos and consommé broth for dipping; Willie tacos, named after Uncle Guillermo (five soft corn tacos cooked with your choice of protein mixed with chorizo, grilled onions, grilled jalapeños and nopales, which are pads of the prickly pear cactus); and the carne asada special (carne asada with grilled shrimp and bacon, covered with cheese dip, served with rice, beans, lettuce, pico de gallo, avocado and your choice of tortillas on the side). Portions are generous and service comes with a smile. Lunch specials are served Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Soft drinks, adult beverages, and desserts including churros rellenos, tres leches cake and sopapilla round out the menu. Bar choices include assorted tap and bottled beer, wine, tequila, and a wide selection of margaritas, including the famous Bagarita — a 56-ounce margarita served in a purse-shaped container.
Limper and her family are proud of their business and confident in their employees, who she considers to be a part of the Rio 150 family.
“We’re a team of 65 employees between our two Mooresville locations,” says Limper. “It’s rare that our employees leave after they’re hired. We try and move our employees forward, not only within our restaurants, but in their personal lives as well.”
Limper says she’d like to expand the Rio 150 brand. She and her family are looking forward to opening a third location in Concord this spring. “The sky is the limit,” she says. It’s hard not to believe her.
Left: Mangonada: mango margarita made with Mexican tamarind candy, chamoy and Tajin salt. Right: Monster Margarita: the biggest in LKN
The Peninsula Club
“I think it’s our membership base.”
Simply put, that’s how Membership and Marketing Director Maureen Kindred describes what she thinks sets The Peninsula Club in Cornelius apart from other private golf courses in the area, and why they are the recipient of our Lake Norman’s Best Readers Choice Award for Best Private Golf Course.
“Our members are so dedicated to this club,” she says, emphasizing their loyalty in light of the year-long, massive $19 million renovation of the club between October 2023 and October 2024, when the course was completely shuttered. “Their support was phenomenal.
“During that year, they literally tore everything on the golf course out ... every blade of grass was taken out,” says Kindred. She says not only did Beau Welling Design oversee the entire course rejuvenation, it was also involved in the addition of four tennis courts, six pickleball courts, a renovated practice facility, a new golf pro shop with a
performance center (two teaching bays that include a golf simulator) and a new adult lounge called The Bunker.
This was the largest project the 35-year-old, member-owned club had ever undertaken. An interruption of service of that magnitude could have been a deal breaker for some businesses, but The Peninsula Club membership stood fast.
“What really speaks to our membership is that we had very few people that left during that entire time the course was closed,” Kindred says, adding that the club held the membership attrition rate to only two percent. She says that is largely due to the more than 22 area golf clubs and facilities that allowed their members to continue to chip away at their handicap while the course was closed.
by Lori Helms photographs courtesy The Peninsula Club
