Lake Norman CURRENTS Magazine April 2024

Mike Griffin, CEO

Kortney Houston Mooresville

Carrie Starnes Hickory

Michael Holdenrid, VP Mount Holly

Paul Renegar Statesville

Tonya Shook Hickory

Logan Canipe Lincolnton

Leon Brown, III Statesville

Leyda Martinez Denver

Shana Vielie Statesville

Lauren Yount Maiden

Melissa Armstrong Mooresville

Dennis Long Statesville

Barbi Dellinger Lincolnton

Rich Schrader Mount Holly

Allow Me To Put the World’s Most Trusted Luxury Brand to Work For You

3 Things To Know This Month In the The Lake Norman Area

Find an Agent Who Values You - In a market still experiencing unprecedentedly low inventory, finding a broker who can navigate creatively is crucial. You need an agent who is innovative, collaborates with other professionals, and explores unconventional solutions. While some agents emphasize transaction volume as the ultimate metric for selecting a broker, remember that experience alone isn’t everything. What truly matters is finding a broker who prioritizes your individual needs and goals. Your real estate journey should revolve around you and your objectives, so don’t settle for anything less. You deserve an agent dedicated to your success and focused on delivering results tailored to your specific situation.

The Spring Market has Begun - As we transition from winter, the housing market is showing signs of renewed vitality. Following a challenging period for both buyers and sellers throughout the fall of 2023 and into January 2024, there’s positive news on the horizon. While sale prices remain high, inventory levels are at record lows, and we continue to see an influx of buyers relocating from out of state, making this a highly competitive market. There’s good news for buyers as well, as mortgage rates are returning to much more favorable levels. With these conditions aligning, now presents an opportune moment for both buyers and sellers to take action in the Lake Norman housing market.

Guidance Toward Your Next Steps - With over 500 real estate agents in the Lake Norman area, how do you determine which one is right for you? Every agent has a unique style, so look for an agent who places your needs above all else, not just meeting their quotas but genuinely prioritizing your best interests. With a passion for going the extra mile for each and every client, I am committed to being there for you every step of the way. Let’s embark on your journey with confidence, and let me be the agent who values you and guides you through. I have built my reputation on putting my clients first.

What to do when ego meets ability?

There’s a popular school of thought that to feel truly alive, you should do something each day that scares you. Now, if you’re a part of the population that lives each day with sometimes crippling anxiety, that concept sounds beyond silly. Because for them, just the prospect of getting up and moving through what life holds for the day can be tasks that feel not just frightening, but at times insurmountable.

To make their heart race or their skin break out in a cold sweat (pretty good indicators that terror has commenced), they don’t need to plunge headfirst out of a perfectly good airplane, with nothing but some pseudo-silk (fabricated and packed by complete strangers) strapped to their back to keep them from plummeting face-first into a destiny with physics. They don’t feel compelled to swim with sharks or spend the night in a haunted house.

No, to jack up their blood pressure and further gray their hair, anxious types need only commit to commuting alongside folks focused too much on their mobile phones and not enough on the 4,000 pounds of steel, fiberglass and rubber they’re hurtling through completely random and utterly blinker-free lane changes. And that’s before you ever make your way to the hellscape that is rush hour on Interstate 77.

And sometimes, all they need do is accept an invitation to speak in public. *Gasps and clutches at chest* Because for them, the prospect of public speaking is that great equalizer where the folly of flattery meets the fear of failure.

On the one hand, it can really stroke your ego to be invited to speak on a subject in which you’ve achieved some level of experience and expertise. It means that some fool somewhere actually thinks you know what you’re doing and that you have amusing little anecdotes or clever guidance to offer about that field of experience and expertise.

On the other, when your ego clashes head-on with your ability to pull off said public speaking event because of atomic-level performance anxiety, the conflict begins.

One such fool approached me with this same scenario just a few months ago. Joe Vagnone, a dynamo of a local small business broker and the voice behind WSIC radio’s “Local Biz Now” show on Monday afternoons, invited Advertising Director Sharon Simpson and me to join him on his show to talk about our magazine. (Editor’s note: Don’t send me nastygrams about calling Vagnone a fool – we have a long history, dare I say friendship, and a mutual professional respect, not to mention that he’d probably tell you that’s the nicest thing I’ve ever called him.)

I struggled with the invitation – it felt like a professional obligation to accept it and an opportunity lost if I didn’t, but I was convinced it would be a full-throated flop thanks to my abject fear of public speaking. But you don’t confess those things out loud. You stiffen the spine, resist the urge to have a cocktail before showtime and just hope that the high-fidelity sound equipment doesn’t pick up your quavering voice or your nervous compulsion to click the retractable pen you’re holding to try to find something to do with your hands.

Clearly, I didn’t stroke out as I predicted I might, but that’s not to say it didn’t take years off my life. And now, I have another such invitation to consider – this time from a group for which I absolutely would not use the same pejorative used to describe Vagnone. I’m sure they’re a fine group of folks, and I’m flattered they would ask me to join them. So, what should I do?

I would love to hear some feedback from my fellow phobics. How do you approach such opportunities (or as us anxious types call them — threats)? Does anyone have some tips to combat the fear of speaking in public coupled with a festering case of Imposter Syndrome?

All advice is welcome, because odds are, I will accept this group’s invitation. Even though I’m convinced it will coax me just one step closer to an early grave, I have it on good authority it’s supposed to make me feel alive.

— LH Lori Helms Editor

Lori@LNCurrents.com

Advertising Director Publisher

MacAdam Smith Mac@LNCurrents.com

Sharon Simpson Sharon@LNCurrents.com

Advertising Sales Executives

Carole Lambert Carole@LNCurrents.com

Beth Packard Beth@LNCurrents.com

Trisha Robinson Trisha@LNCurrents.com

Event Coordinator

Alison Smith Alison@LNCurrents.com

Social Media Specialist

Lauren Platts social@lncurrents.com

Design & Production idesign2, inc

Contributing Writers

Trevor Burton

Kathy Dicken

Mickey Dunaway

Allison Futterman

Vanessa Infanzon

Karel Bond Lucander

Jennifer Mitchell

Bek Mitchell-Kidd

Tony Ricciardelli

Contributing Photographers

Jon Beyerle

Lisa Crates

www.facebook.com/LNCurrents

www.twitter.com/LNCurrents

Contents

“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 has decided to change the name of our contest to Lake Norman’s Best Awards we’re asking you, our readers, to nominate and vote for your favorite business in a variety of categories. The top five vote-getters in each category will be invited to a special awards gala in June where the winners will be announced.

1. Go to our website www.LNcurrents.com to voted for your favorites from our list of categories.

Nominations began on February 1 and ended on February 29.

Nominees are listed on the website and voting starts on March 1, concluding on April 30.

The top five nominees in each category will be announced in our May issue.

Winners will be announced at a special Awards Gala on June 26 at The Cain Center in Cornelius.

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 local business!

A Certain Sign of Spring ...

It’s farmers market time!

by Bek Mitchell-Kidd

Few things make you feel like everything is going to be okay in the world like a farmers market. Whether you’re looking for all things local, handmade or simply just grown with love, we are lucky to have some top-notch markets in the Lake Norman area that remind us of what things are actually supposed to taste like.

• Blackberry Ridge Farm: Life slows down on the big family farm – the store sells cut-on-the-farm flowers, CBD products and other local merchandise. You can also pick-up information on summer camps, workshops or schedule a photography session. 14820 Beatties Ford Road, Huntersville; store is typically open Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.blackberryridgefarmnc.com.

• The Bradford Market: The Bradford Store was established in 1912 and is now known as The Bradford Market, where you can browse through a mix of health and wellness products, a variety of home goods, organic meats, vegetables and garden supplies, and more from regional suppliers. 15915 Davidson Concord Road (Highway 73), Huntersville; store is typically open Monday- Friday, 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Sundays. www.thebradfordmarket.com.

• Davidson Farmers Market: One of the lake’s most beloved markets connects shoppers with vendors from within a 100-mile radius. Supporting farms, nurseries, bakeries, meat producers, cheese makers and more means you can find everything from flowers and fish to farmraised lamb charcuterie boards. 120 S. Main Street, Davidson; Saturdays, 9 a.m.-noon., April-November. www.davidsonfarmersmarket.org.

• Hampton Hills Farm: Whether you’re looking for pears and pawpaws or perhaps okra and salad mix lettuce, you’ll be able to find it freshly harvested on the no-till farm. Visit the store for prepared items using the farm ingredients including marinara sauce and chimichurri aioli. Check the farm’s website for market, store and event hosting details. 5534 Old Plank Road, Iron Station; www.hamptonhillsfarm.com.

• Huntersville Growers’ Market: Look for the big red caboose and shop handcrafted soaps, fresh herbs and even pet paraphernalia all made by talented local artisans. Veterans Park, downtown Huntersville; Saturdays, 8 a.m.-noon, April 13 – Aug. 31. www.facebook.com/GrowersMkt.

• Josh’s Farmers Market: This market is a favorite of Mooresville residents, but the fan club spans the entire lake area. The market is well known for its support of other local businesses, including JM Seafood which brings in some of the nearby coast’s best and freshest catches, or homemade key lime pies direct from Ft. Myers. They often also have Amish-built furniture and raw milk products. 630 Brawley School Road, Mooresville; typically Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.5 p.m., Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., but follow the market on Facebook for updates or visit www.joshsfarmersmarket.com.

• Lake Norman Area Farmers Market (LKNA): Serving the Denver community for almost 20 years, LKNA is one of the few year-round outdoor markets. Stroll and shop fresh breads, mushrooms, honey and even grab some breakfast or lunch from one of the many food trucks. Pursuit Church, 3618 Highway 16 North Business, Denver; Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon. www.facebook.com/denverncfarmersmkt.

Knotty & Board Interiors

by Lori Helms | photography courtesy Knotty & Board Interiors

In the span of just a few years, husband and wife team Michael Fournier and Kim Hankins have grown the reach of Knotty & Board Interiors – literally and figuratively – from its original retail storefront in Cornelius to include a renovated historic home in Davidson used as their design center. With an eye for what’s trending and a knack for matching the vibe of their clients, it’s no surprise that Knotty & Board earned top honors in our 2023 Best of the Lake Norman CURRENTS “Best Lighting Store” category.

Fournier says they can offer their clientele a variety of lighting styles – everything from sleek and modern options to perhaps something a little retro to more traditional selections. He says that while the recent trend of the farmhouse look is still popular, it’s definitely seen its peak, and many of their clients have moved in a new direction.

“Now we’re seeing folks trying to be a little bit more creative,” Fournier says, “showing their individuality and their own taste.” He says the half-dozen or so lighting vendors he uses are really leaning into that trend, coming up with some fun designs for the adventurous shopper looking for indirect or overhead lighting.

Knotty & Board Interiors first opened in October 2020 in its Cornelius location on North Main Street. After expanding in that leased space twice as the popularity of their services took off – and

maxing out the space available to them – an old Davidson home came on the market just a few miles up the road on South Main Street. Fournier and Hankins took about 18 months to breathe new life into The Brown House, built in 1905, and in November 2022, opened their doors to a design project-focused venue.

Each room in the restored home is a design vignette, such as the living room with its funky gold chain waterfall feature or the dining room with its wallpapered ceiling. Whereas Fournier describes their Cornelius storefront as a more transactional space, the Davidson home is very much focused on projects and is the heart of their design services.

“Every day, my team comes to the shop with the intention to be the best we can be at what we’re good at – which is design and décor,” he says. “We’re always looking for affordable items. ... We’re not trying to be the most expensive or exclusive provider in Lake Norman. We’re trying to provide a quality piece of furniture and décor that’s reasonably priced.”

Right, the team at Knotty & Board Interiors in Cornelius and Davidson is ready to help you find just the right lighting and so much more.

Health & Sustainability the Old-Fashioned Way

Sovereign Traditions offers natural choices

by Tony Ricciardelli photographs courtesy Sovereign Traditions

During these times of high-tech frenzy, pharmaceutical cure-alls, fast food consumption, diet fads and frenetic lifestyles, we seldom think about previous generations — the resiliency and ingenuity required of our predecessors to maintain their health and to forge ahead during challenging times. There is much truth in the saying, “Grandma knows best.”

For Amber Lipscomb, owner of Sovereign Traditions Farm Collective & General Store in Mooresville, maintaining a healthy lifestyle means interpreting the available options and understanding the benefits of organic, non-GMO foods and personal care products. Lipscomb is proof that changing one’s lifestyle can save a life. Diagnosed 18 years ago with Lyme Disease and a grim prognosis, Lipscomb turned wholeheartedly to holistic practices and recovered within six months.

“It’s important to understand where our food comes from as well as what’s in our food,” she says. “My mission is to foster a healthier community by providing high quality food and promoting regenerative, organic practices.” This means procuring the healthiest naturally grown food and wellness products to fill her store shelves. An advocate for faith-based healthcare and organic agriculture, Lipscomb has since earned a PhD in Neuropathic Medicine. She holds certifications in clinical aromatherapy, botanical medicine, food systems for public health and Biblical health and substance abuse counseling.

Sovereign Traditions, which opened in Mooresville in February, collaborates with 29 local farmers residing within 10 miles of the store. The health-driven inventory includes meat, vegetables, dairy, soaps, coffee, tea, bread, tinctures, herbs and spices, laundry detergent and natural remedies.

“Consider the life of a farmer,” says Lipscomb, “working long, hard hours seven days a week with little if any time to sell their products. Sovereign Traditions is an alternative way of getting the farmer’s product to the right customers.”

Appreciating the near-forgotten traditions and proficiencies that made our ancestors resourceful and self-sufficient, Lipscomb strives to keep sustainability at the forefront by offering direct learning with homesteading and traditional skills classes, which connect people to country living. Classes include Introduction to Soap Making, Herbal First Aid, Sheep to Shawl–Introduction to Yarn, Dairy Day Class and Sour Dough Class.

“A natural diet and a healthful lifestyle benefit health-conscious customers and the local economy,” says Lipscomb. “This venture is much bigger than just us.” Lipscomb, her husband Alan and their three children maintain a small organic “hobby farm” in Mount Ulla, raising Kunekune pigs, Muscovy ducks and egg-laying chickens. In keeping traditional skills alive, Lipscomb’s son practices blacksmithing and her daughters are adept at canning and soap making.

Planting an organic garden and raising chickens on the property at the rear of the store are a next step, where customers can experience firsthand involvement with organic farming and gardening.

There’s a bit of everything at Sovereign Traditions, from farm fresh eggs to local honey, dairy and produce.

Amber Lipscomb tends to one of the vegetable gardens supplying produce for Sovereign Traditions.

Providing More Than Beautiful Smiles

Simply the best... for your pet!

• Advanced Medicine & Surgery

• Advanced Medicine & Surgery

• Laser • Wellness Plans

• Preventative Care and Advanced Medicine for varying species

• Advanced Medicine & Surgery

• Laser • Wellness Plans

• Online Pharmacy

• Laser • Wellness Plans

• Online Pharmacy

• Online Pharmacy

• Specialized Referral Services and Surgical Procedures for Avians and Exotics

• Boarding • Grooming

• Boarding • Grooming

• Vaccines/Dental Care

• Boarding • Grooming

• Vaccines/Dental Care

• Dental Care • Ultrasound • Laser Therapy

• Vaccines/Dental Care

• Exotic Pet Medicine/Boarding

• Exotic Pet Medicine/Boarding

• Wellness Plans • Online Pharmacy • Grooming

• Exotic Pet Medicine/Boarding

Convenient location

Adjacent to Petco & Target 10110 Northcross Center Ct, Suite 100

Huntersville, NC 28078

Alisha Fennell DVM

Alisha Fennell DVM

Convenient location Adjacent to Petco & Target 10110 Northcross Center Ct, Huntersville, NC 28078

Alycen

704-439-0600

704-439-0600

DVM Tracey Ritzman, DVM DABVP

Alycen Adams DVM

Alycen Adams DVM

704-439-0600

www.CarolinasVetCare.com

www.CarolinasVetCare.com

Alycen Adams DVM

Convenient Location Adjacent to Petco & Target 10110 Northcross Center Ct, | Suite 100 | Huntersville, NC 28078 ••••••••••••

704-439-0600 | www.CarolinasVetCare.com

Welborne, White & Schmidt

EXCELLENCE IN DENTISTRY

9700 Caldwell Commons Circle | Cornelius, NC 28031

Tel: 704-896-7955 |

Website: www.wwsdental.com

Alisha Fennell DVM

Alisha Fennell, DVM

Adams,

Get Your LKN Goods Here

Fun takes on our favorite lake

Let your Lake Norman spirit soar with locally-branded merchandise that screams “I love living here!” Up and down the shoreline of our beloved lake, you can find Lake Norman accessories to suit your style or decorate your abode. To start, breeze into The Village Store in Davidson and you’ll see an abundance of goods.

“Our selection of Lake Norman merchandise has grown steadily over the years,” says owner Megan Blackwell. “Both locals and visitors come in looking for items that pay homage to this spot that they love.” Here, you’ll find locally scented Ella B. candles, Lake Norman wooden art, Davidson tea towels and pillows, and Deborah Young canvas prints. A few doors down, Davidson Provision Company has an assortment of Davidson apparel and new items that call out the major streets of Lake Norman and tie the local towns together. Also on Main Street, pick up a bag of Summit Coffee’s special Davidson College blend at the Davidson College Store.

Honeysuckle Home features an array of beautiful locally-focused and zip code pillows, cheeky cups declaring “Housewife of Cornelius” and other lake towns, tea towels and popular lightweight Lake Norman sweatshirts.

“These gifts are great for a neighbor moving in or college alumni,” says owner Janie Slusarick. At nearby Knotty & Board

by Karel Bond Lucander

Interiors, you’ll find Lake Norman sweaters, bags and gift items.

Uncommon Scents in Huntersville has LKNemblazoned coffee mugs, trivets, car coasters, latitude/longitude signs and more. “People are so excited to find these items and we welcome everybody,” says owner Connye Cross.

Everything at Lakeside Custom Tee’s & Embroidery in Cornelius has Lake Norman branding. This includes pullovers and polos, wine glasses and beer growlers, pet items, rugs and map art. “If a realtor is looking for a gift or for company team building, if someone wants to embody LKN, if you’re in the Lake Norman area, pop in” says associate Kathy Chludzinski.

Owner Pamela Hess says Albertine Florals, Wine & Gifts in Denver offers many “locally crafted pieces.” LKN-branded items include beach towels by Lake Girl Embroidery, T-shirts and sweatshirts by Moorseville’s LKN Local, and wood and marble local lake art by Watts Woodworking. They also have ornaments, coasters and more.

If you love living here – and we know you do – check out what each store has to offer. The hardest part will be choosing what to get for whom, whether it’s a Lake Norman-loving resident, out-of-town wannabe transplant or yourself – happy shopping!

Albertine Florals, Wine & Gifts

751-J NC-16 Business, Denver 704.489.6202

Davidson College Store

137 N. Main St., Davidson 704.894.2349

Davidson Provision Company 116 S. Main St., Davidson 980.483.1181

Honeysuckle Home

428 S. Main St., Davidson 980.231.5098

Knotty & Board Interiors 265 S. Main St., Davidson 704.618.2894

Lakeside Custom Tee’s & Embroidery 9216 Westmoreland Road, Cornelius 704.274.3730

The Village Store 110 S. Main St., Davidson 704.892.4440

Uncommon Scents

9715 Sam Furr Road #B, Huntersville 704.895.0197

photography by Karel Bond Lucander

Top: Village Store Left: Honeysuckle Home Right: Davidson Provision Co.

1. Handmade Mom Soap by SOAK 16.50

2. Houston Llew From the Heart Spiritile $179

3. Kinzig Lamp $970

4. Pink Opal Adore Earrings $84

5. Emerald Adore Necklace $168

6. Up Up & Away Chocolates $35

$178

‘Radiate Positivity!’

Spreading

good vibes with Yay!DAY

by Lori Helms | photography by Firstname Lastname

Marketing and advertising geniuses will tell you that to connect with your intended audience, to truly grab them, you need an effective tag line. Those creatives are typically paid top dollar to come up with something spot-on and simple that sticks. I guess the joke’s on them. Sometimes all you need to do is sit and listen to a little kid with big ideas, just like Cornelius resident Chris Boukedes did several years ago with his young daughter, Zoey.

“She had some situations at school, watching friends getting bullied,” he says. “We were having dinner, and she said, ‘I just want to help them.’ So, I told her to keep talking.” Turns out, that was some serendipitous advice. What began as casual dinnertime conversation became the genesis of a now popular movement started by a 12-yearold’s best intentions.

And just like that, Yay!DAY and its “Radiate Positivity!” tag line were born.

Zoey wanted not just her schoolmates but the community to focus on one day – Yay!DAY – when everything is just positive, or as she put it to her father, “You just say ‘yay!’ no matter what happens.” To hear her dad explain it, it didn’t take much for the movement to catch on.

“All we did was put out a few posts on social media,” he says, adding that at first Zoey had picked Oct. 30 to be the inaugural Yay!DAY. “We created a T-shirt, and the next thing you know, she got a lot of interest from family and friends and raised about $8,000 in merchandise sales.”

Four years later, Yay!DAY is now a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization which has raised more than $100,000. Through the Yay!DAY club she established at Hough High School in Cornelius, Zoey is using those funds to commit to annual scholarships over the next four years for graduating seniors who perform not only community service but have shown to commit to a positive lifestyle and maintain a positive attitude in the community.

“It’s just amazing to watch a young mind that just wants to do the right thing,” says her proud dad, Chris.

There have been a series of successful fundraisers over the last few years, and there is a significant one coming up. On Thursday, April 25, celebrity comedian Preacher Lawson will perform at the Cain Center for the Arts in Cornelius. Tickets are $35 and doors open at 6 p.m. Proceeds from the event will benefit the educational, leadership and scholarship programs of the Yay!DAY foundation.

“When I started Yay!DAY, it started as a custom T-shirt my mom had made me and a Facebook post,” Zoey says. “Since starting Yay!DAY, we have been able to spread our message throughout Lake Norman and encourage people to utilize a positive mindset. One of my main goals for Yay!DAY is to help kids learn at an early age that a positive attitude can be helpful and impactful in everyday life.”

Right, Zoey Boukedes is the inspiration and positivity behind Yay!DAY. Above, Yay!DAY club members from Hough High School mentor younger students in how to stay positive. Above, YayDAY! volunteers spread a positive message to J.V. Washam Elementary School students.

Whether it’s a bathroom, the kitchen or the living spaces where your family and friends gather, Pages 29-41 offer lots of inspiration for ways to freshen your home’s aesthetic.

& Lighter

Brighter

BEFORE

A refresh for a place of respite

by Lori Helms photography by Lisa Crates

The need for change can come from a lot of sources – maybe a change in zip code, maybe a change in lifestyle, maybe a change in taste. And sometimes, it can be a combination of all of the above.

These circumstances are a regular occurrence in Anna Stowe’s profession. As the manager and lead interior designer for Great Design 4 U, she’s seen every permutation of these challenges and relishes the opportunity to escort her clients through what can sometimes feel like a daunting task – to overhaul and refresh a part of their home that isn’t necessarily in dire need, but might just be calling out for that renovation that will breathe new life – and design – into a space used every day.

Expanding the shower as much as possible while creating a lighter feel to the room were design challenges interior designer Anna Stowe was able to overcome for her clients and their primary bathroom refresh.

Such was the case with a recent remodel undertaken by Stowe – a primary bathroom in a Lake Norman area townhome. She says her client had really fallen in love with a similar renovation they had done at their beach home about a year or so ago, and wanted to see if the same could be done for their home here.

“They kind of had an idea of what they wanted, but it was a completely different bathroom (layout), so we had our challenges,” says Stowe.

Key priorities were to expand the shower as much as possible in the limited space available, to include a stand-alone tub and to create an allover larger feel for the room. As you’ll see from these images, Stowe and her trusted remodeling partners were able to provide a lighter, brighter, airier feel to what was a darker and slightly dated space.

A stand alone tub like this sleek and modern design was a priority for the retired homeowners. It was also important for the design to make it safely accessible.

1. Custom Order Pillows - $129 and up

2. Citrus Candle Ring - $34

3. Lux Cachepot Candle- $59

4. Tuscan Platter - $42

5. Dynasty Petite Prints set/4 - $189

6. Custom Floral Arrangements - $75 and up

Buffet Lamp - $222

Great Design 4 U

Creating Functionality and Warmth

At Great Design 4 U, our commitment lies in understanding our clients’ needs and guiding them toward achieving a home they cherish and find solace in. One notable project exemplifying this ethos was the renovation of a beloved forever home belonging to an engineering couple. Having raised their family and envisioning it as their retirement haven, they reached out to us amidst the meticulous decision-making process.

During our initial conversation, we delved into their vision for the space. While specifics were yet to be fully realized, their desire for a functional yet inviting environment for entertaining was evident. They yearned for a space that seamlessly merged with their backyard vista and provided ample room for hosting intimate gatherings while maintaining a cozy ambiance for quiet moments together.

In understanding their lifestyle and preferences, we meticulously crafted a design plan tailored to their unique needs. Seamlessly integrating their entertaining aspirations with their day-to-day routines, we reimagined the space to fulfill their every desire.

Today, their home stands as a testament to our collaborative efforts, where every corner exudes functionality and warmth. The redesigned areas effortlessly cater to their entertaining needs while offering a tranquil sanctuary for quiet evenings spent together. Through our partnership, we’ve transformed their house into a haven they’re proud to call their forever home.

Anna Stowe IDS Professional | Manager and lead Interior designer www.greatdesign4u.com | 704-305-0139

Often, we find ourselves merely existing at home. My goal with each Home, Heart & Soul client is to transform that existence into an experience. As you navigate the demands of daily life, your home should be your sanctuary—a space that empowers you to make the best of every day. I consider everything you need and want to design comfortable, functional rooms that reflect your unique personality. Together, we create a haven where you can land softly, recharge, reflect, and emerge rejuvenated.

In my approach, your main living space and personal bedroom take center stage. These rooms deserve the utmost attention, as they lay the foundation for your daily rhythm. I love incorporating your cherished pieces—a favorite chair, a unique chest, or a special table. Breathing new life into these items becomes a canvas for expressing your personality and style.

The magic unfolds as we introduce new furnishings, inviting area rugs, captivating art, and wall decor accents. Thoughtful lighting and curated accessories complete the ensemble, adding depth and setting a mood tailored to your unique needs. These elements are more than decorations. They create an ambiance that aligns with your desires and aspirations.

Imagine returning home to a living space that seamlessly merges functionality with aesthetics—a space that mirrors your essence and welcomes you with open arms. Every corner tells a story, and each piece serves a purpose. With intention and creativity, we can turn your home into a sanctuary that exceeds your expectations, making every day a celebration of comfort and joy. Your Home, Heart & Soul transformation begins with a complimentary discovery call. Email or call to schedule yours today.

recharge

reflect

rejunvenate

Not all book clubs are created equal. Silent book clubs allow reading enthusiasts to enjoy their own titles while still in a group setting, with the option of sharing what they’re reading with others.

Reimagined

Reading

Mooresville shop welcomes “Silent Book Club”

by Jennifer Mitchell photography by Jon Beyerle

Disruptive technologies have been reinventing businesses for decades, and a similar, yet admittedly less tech-driven innovation is also making an impact on, well, book clubs. Yes, you heard that right. Book clubs.

The Silent Book Club (SBC) came to life in 2012 in San Francisco. In February this year, a new chapter opened at Fred and June’s Books in Mooresville and the owner explains it’s an innovative approach to book clubs that many may find more relaxed and welcoming.

“We started this book club at our store because we were inspired by the enthusiasm and connection we saw it generating at other places across the nation,” says Stephen Hayes. “We liked the idea of offering a reading sanctuary of sorts where our customers and people from the community can join together and share their love of reading in a low-stress, loosely structured environment.”

At SBC there is no rushing to finish the book before you meet and no assigned reading when you leave. Everyone arrives with a book of their choice, reads for about 45 minutes to an hour, followed by optional time at the end to share what you are reading about with others – that is, of course, if you choose to do so.

“We have readers joining us from all walks of life and with varying literary preferences,” says Hayes. “That’s the great thing about SBC – you can read what you want and then if you desire, you can stay to chat about the great book you are reading and make recommendations to others.”

Guinevere de la Mare and Laura Gluhanich, who started the SBC

concept, were tired of attempting to plan traditional book clubs only to have them fizzle out. According to their website, they loved books and reading with friends. By reimagining the look and feel of the traditional book club, now friends are gathering at libraries, cafes, bookstores, online and even at bars to read together – no matter what book they choose for that month. There are no registration fees or requirements.

There are currently more than 500 chapters of SBC in 50 countries around the world. In many cases, the chapters help to support local businesses where they are held, by increasing foot traffic and potential customers. And any book is fine – audiobooks, eBooks, textbooks, even comic books. The choice is up to you.

Fred and June’s Books will host Silent Book Club on the last Tuesday of each month from 6 to 8 p.m. It is free to attend and is meant for mature teens and adults. Those interested are encouraged to visit the bookstore’s Facebook events page and note if they plan to attend, however this is not a requirement. Hayes says he hopes people will spread the word about the new club with friends and on social media to get the word out to all who share a love for reading.

“It’s a cozy, low-stress environment with no obligatory participation. Readers can let their introvert flags fly while also gathering with other book lovers,” he says.

Fred and June’s Books is at 248 N. Main Street in Mooresville. To learn more, visit the store’s website at www.fredandjunesbooks.com or check out its events page on Facebook.

The Seagrove - Charlotte Connection

Mint Museum supports N.C. potters with exhibits and gift shop displays

Jeff Dean and Stephanie Nicole Martin live in Seagrove, a small town in the heart of North Carolina, less than two hours from the Lake Norman area. Since 1998, Dean and Martin have been designing and creating pottery, eventually opening a studio, Dean and Martin Pottery, in 2005. The town boasts 50 shops and galleries open to the public and about 100 working potters, confirming its reputation as, “The Handmade Pottery Capital of the United States.”

Dean and Martin — a husband-and-wife team — share space, but each has a distinct style. Dean’s work is characterized as gas-fired stoneware. Martin relies on a vibrant color palette and floral patterns. Her pop culture series features fashion, musicians and patterns from the 60s, 70s and sometimes the 80s.

Mint Museum’s gift shops have a long tradition of carrying work by Seagrove potters — since the early 1990s for Mint Museum

Randolph and 2010 for Mint Museum Uptown, when it first opened. Today, you will find works by Dean and Martin Pottery, Johnston & Gentithes Studios, Jugtown Pottery, Ben Owen Pottery and David Stuempfle Pottery in both gift shops. Martin is grateful the Mint Museum displays their work in the gift shops because it raises awareness of Seagrove.

“It’s a historical place for pottery,” Martin says. “Seagrove is so unique; there’s no place like it in the U.S. It’s really a treasure.” From dog bowls and dinner plates to vases and sculptures, works by Seagrove potters rotate through Mint Museum’s gift shops.

“It’s been important for our store to carry Seagrove Potters,” says Hannah Snyder, director of retail operations for the gift shops at Mint Museum Uptown and Mint Museum Randolph. “We want to infuse people’s homes with local art and North Carolina pottery.”

Left, Stephanie Martin mugs, courtesy Dean and Martin Pottery; center, Jugtown Pottery selections, courtesy Jugtown Pottery; right, Nebular Purple Vase by Ben Owen III, courtesy Ben Owen.

Celebrity mugs by Stephanie Dean, courtesy Dean and Martin Pottery. by Vanessa Infanzon

For a deeper dive into ceramics and Seagrove’s contribution to pottery, visit Level 3 at Mint Museum Uptown to view the Craft and Design Gallery. It features a rotating exhibit of ceramics from the permanent collection, some from Seagrove potters. Watch videos of makers, touch textured pieces of pottery on the wall and learn the science behind the art.

Through Aug. 11, the exhibition, “The DelHom Service League: 50 Golden Years,” highlights works from the museum’s permanent collection at Mint Museum Randolph. The exhibit showcases Asian, British, European and North Carolina ceramics including one work from each of these Seagrove potters: Daniel Johnston, Ben Owen III, Pam Owens and Kate Waltman.

“Seagrove is known for being one of the most important traditional ceramics centers in the country that has taken tradition and incorporated it with contemporary global expression,” says Annie Carlano, senior curator of craft, design and fashion at the Mint Museum.

Meet the Potters

Here are two opportunities to meet potters and see their work:

• Tea with Seagrove Potters, a bi-annual event, is August 10. Potters at Blue Hen Pottery, Dean and Martin, Eck McCanless, From the Ground Up, Red Hare Pottery and Thomas Pottery open the studios, give demonstrations and serve homemade refreshments and samples from The Table Farmhouse Bakery, Seagrove Cafe and Carriage House Tea. www.teawithseagrovepotters.com

• The annual outdoor event, Potters Market at the Mint, is Sept. 21, on Mint Museum Randolph’s lawn. More than 50 ceramicists display their work and answer questions about their process and style. Purchase early bird tickets or a VIP pass for access to special events. www.pottersmarketatthemint.com

Mother-and-son potters Pam and Travis Owens, courtesy Jugtown Pottery.

Great clothes, caring and community

All-volunteer staff guides the ‘Give Back’ mission

by Allison Futterman photographs courtesy Give Back Boutique

Years ago, when she first became a volunteer at The Christian Mission (TCM) in Mooresville, Keena Darland took part in a program called “Bridges out of Poverty.” The program taught volunteers about the issue of poverty in the community. It was not only eye-opening, but life changing.

“You don’t know what you don’t know,” says Darland. “It changed everything for me. I couldn’t learn about the problem and not do anything about it.”

Darland and her husband had recently returned from overseas, where they had been living for his job. It was a time when she was dealing with some challenges in her own life and wanted to do something to get her mind off her own situation. She believed the best way to do that was to help others.

“You don’t need to look far to find someone worse off than you,” she says.

At the time, the rescue mission was facing the perfect storm: there was an economic downturn, there was an increased demand for services and there was a lack of financial donations. They had been receiving clothing donations — beautiful, high-end clothes. The problem was that the clothes didn’t fit the lifestyles of the people in need.

That’s when Darland got the idea for a consignment shop, where all the proceeds (after expenses) would go to TCM. The goal of TCM is to “to break the cycle of poverty by providing food, clothing, shelter, and programs to move families from crisis to stability.” The Give Back Boutique operates as one of TCM’s programs.

Events:

Girls’ Night Out

•••

When: Second Thursday of every month from 4-7 p.m.

Sip, Shop and Strut

The Give Back Boutique will be participating in the Sip, Shop and Strut spring fashion fundraising event.

•••

When: April 18 at the Mooresville Hilton Garden Inn

Although she had a business degree, Darland hadn’t run a business previously. But she knew she was meant to do this and believed it would work.

“It felt like a God nudge for me to do it,” she says. “I prayed about it and felt strongly this is what I was supposed to do.” She emailed everyone she could think of who might have items to donate. She told them, “Whatever’s in your closet that you don’t want, donate it.” And in 2011, the Give Back Boutique opened its door. Since then, women have donated and/or consigned countless items.

Darland has been the manager since day one. At first, she recruited a few close friends to help her run the consignment shop. Everybody volunteered their time and services. And to this day, the boutique is volunteer driven.

There were challenges along the way, she says, but each time, “I would pray about it and somehow things would work out.” She’s very proud of what the boutique has contributed over the past nearly 13 years. Darland is modest and gives credit to the volunteers, especially team leaders.

With shoppers of all ages, Give Back Boutique is a place offering something for everyone. With a welcoming vibe, some women visit for retail therapy, while others come in just to visit and mingle. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to stop by.

The Give Back Boutique is at 478 D Williamson Road, Mooresville (entrance is at the back of the building). To volunteer, visit www.thechristianmission.org/volunteer/.

Professional stylist Christine Nelson will be in attendance to offer complimentary help to shoppers searching for their best looks.

Left, the all-volunteer team at Mooresville’s Give Back Boutique; below, a “Girls’ Night Out” event at the shop.

Audiology

Living Well

Your local resource for health and wellness services near you

PHC – Lake Norman Ear, Nose & Throat

Megan Mathis-Webb, AuD

Susie Riggs, 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

Heather Hollandsworth, FNP

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

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 Ear, Nose, & Throat

Keith Meetze, MD

Thomas Warren, MD

Herb Wettreich, MD

Fred New, Jr., ANP 140 Gateway Blvd. Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638

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

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

Caroline Turner, NP

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

Scott Brandon, MD

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

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 128 Medical Park Road, Suite 101 Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-658-1001

For the area’s 55+ adults who place no limits on living their best lives!

There are some unexpected payoffs from practicing - just ask our Limitless columnist Mickey Dunaway.

IT PAYS TO

A serendipitous chat with ‘Shug’ Practice

I worked on my bachelor’s degree at Auburn University from 1965 to 1969 in the prototypical college town of Auburn. The University had an enrollment of 12,000 students and was in east Alabama, about 60 miles northeast of Montgomery and a little more than 100 miles from Atlanta. My hometown was Fairview, Alabama, in Mobile County, with a population of about 500. The trip from Auburn to Fairview was 172 miles, with most of it on two-lane roads. So, one did not just run home on a whim. The timeframe of this story was the middle of one of those weeks when I knew I would not be going home.

I must have been a sophomore because I didn’t have a car. I lived and worked at Thornton’s Boarding House across Magnolia Avenue from the campus. On an afternoon when I should have been studying,

by Mickey Dunaway

I took my old beat-up football, a spray paint can top that I used as a kicking tee and I would walk the few hundred yards behind the student infirmary to the practice field behind the north end zone of Cliff Hare Stadium (as it was known at the time).

I never played the game after junior high school, but I loved to punt and kick. On this fall day, I was “practicing” my field goal kicking. I would put my spray can tee about 40 yards from the goal, imagine the game’s setting and I would back up a yard or so and kick the imaginary field goal. Then I would run and retrieve the ball, run back and do it again. Kick and retrieve, kick and retrieve. Good fun with Walter Middy aspirations of being pulled from the student section of some game to kick a field goal because John Riley (the Auburn kicker at the time) had taken ill.

A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.

-William Shakespeare

For no reason at all, after I had finished “practicing” that day, I walked into Cliff Hare Stadium — you could do that in those days — and sat down on the home side bench. As I let my mind wander, in the middle of my orange and blue daydream, an older gentleman walked up and sat beside me. I recognized him immediately by the old beat-up canvas porkpie hat that was his trademark. We briefly discussed Auburn, my college major and how I was doing. He said he had watched me kicking field goals on the practice field and was impressed. At this point, I could only whisper, “Thank you, sir.”

That gentleman with the slow southern accent was Auburn’s head football coach, Ralph “Shug” Jordan. He was making his way to practice and stopped to talk to this student with a football.

In a few years, the stadium’s name would be changed to Jordan-Hare

Stadium in Coach Jordan’s honor as the winningest coach in Auburn football history. But I mainly remember him as the exemplary Southern gentleman that he was.

I end this mostly true tale of the South with a Southernism that one is likely to find only in the deep South.

The family surname Jordan is pronounced “JORdan,” right? Not necessarily. In some parts of the South, such as Selma, where Coach Shug Jordan was born, Jordan is more correctly pronounced “JURdan.”

Should you visit Auburn, perhaps with a grandchild to check out this outstanding public university, remember that the football stadium’s name is not JORdan-Hare but JURdan-Hare!

Make sure you have clear title for “heir property”

Inheriting property can be a joyous occasion, but without proper estate planning, it may lead to unintended complications, especially when dealing with heir property interests. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, heir property has been the leading cause of involuntary land loss in the Black community.

Heir property is property co-owned by multiple heirs of one ancestor. Absent the probate process, land records can’t reflect the next generation of owners resulting in a title record that shows the property being owned by a person who may have passed away decades earlier. When this process fails to happen through multiple generations, the number of heirs with an interest in the property can be in the hundreds.

Since ownership of heir property is transferred through inheritance, when probate fails to happen — especially over numerous generations — it can be difficult to prove ownership by the heirs, resulting in a “cloudy” title. Without clear title, the property cannot be sold and there is a great risk that an heir may seek a partition of the property. A partition is a legal proceeding where one interest holder in the property petitions to the court to force a sale of the property or divide the property among the owners.

Legal fees, court costs and potential disputes of the use

or sale of the property can lower the value of the inheritance, leaving heirs with less money than anticipated. Even if there is no apparent dispute over the property, some heirs may be unknown or difficult to locate, resulting in another challenge to be overcome to move forward. Until a cloudy title is resolved, access to generational wealth is restricted.

Estate planning plays a pivotal role in safeguarding inheritance property and preventing heir property disputes. By establishing clear guidelines, designating beneficiaries and minimizing probate-related expenses, individuals can secure the financial future of their heirs while providing peace of mind for themselves.

Cameron A. Crump is an Estate Planning Attorney with The McIntosh Law Firm, P.C. Contact her at 704.892.1699 or visit www. mcintoshlawfirm.com.

Dine + Wine

Eating, drinking, cooking and fun

Photo by Lisa Crates

Lake Norman Mercantile & Creamery owner Kristen Martin enjoys helping create memories for customers like little Rowan McNally and local Realtor Bethenny Bullard.

Splendid

Blended

Winemakers ‘tune’ a wine’s taste by blending different grapes

by Trevor Burton photography by Trevor Burton

Greater than the sum of its parts is a superb way of defining the rationale behind blended wines. Winemaking is an art. Winemakers search for excellence in their finished wines and blending wines together is part of that art. Maybe it’s one wine complementing another or maybe it’s a characteristic of one wine making up for a weakness in another’s. Greater than the sum of its parts goes a long way to describing these wines.

Blended wines have been around for hundreds of years. The most famous blended wines are the wines of the Bordeaux region of France. Each year, winemakers in Bordeaux blend together wines they made that year from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and maybe a little Carménère. They keep adjusting their blends until they come up with a wine that meets the profile of these wonderful regional wines. That’s why the wines are so famous.

Another example hails from our very own United States. Winemakers wanted to create a wine that was akin to Bordeaux’ wines — again, greater than the sum of its parts. They figured out how to do it from a winemaking point of view but were stuck with how to describe it. A good approach was to say it was based on the Bordeaux approach. Unfortunately, French winemakers get really testy when some other wine region uses their name. So that approach was a nonstarter.

A lot of great minds went to work. They came up with a description that combined “merit” and “heritage”— Meritage. It’s more than just a name. Winemakers have to meet stringent requirements in order to have it on their label. So, it’s a worthwhile effort to search out wines with the Meritage moniker. You’ll be glad you did — you’ll find the Bordeaux style in a domestic wine and one much, much less costly than its French cousins.

I have a personal favorite blended wine. Generally, Mediterranean wines are blended, and usually, the main wine in the blend is Carignan or Grenache. The other grapes in each blend depend solely on the region that’s involved. My favorite wine is from the northeastern part of Spain, the Priorat region.

Wines from Priorat get a special designation that sets them apart from Spain’s other regional wines. Priorat’s soil, if it can be called that, is composed mostly of black slate. In my mind it’s proof that you could grow wines on the moon. These are blended wines. The main grape in the blend is Garnacha (Grenache) with a good dose of Cariñena (Carignan). The balance could be Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot. The blend of each Priorat wine varies depending on the producer. I’m in heaven sipping on these wines with a pizza or, better yet, a dish of paella.

Just a final aside. Wine laws in the United States stipulate that for a grape variety to be named on the wine’s label, at least 75% of the wine has to have the name on the label. The other 25% is up to the winemaker. For example, if you’re sipping on a Cabernet Sauvignon, there’s a chance that, in fact, you’re sipping on a blended wine. So, it really pays to know your winemaker and vineyards. In any event, it’s tasty and fun getting to search them out. So much wine and so little time. It’s tasty to blend in.

A favorite wine that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Keep It Bright &Light

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

If you love lemon chicken, you will love this soup. This bright and comforting recipe has been on repeat in our house lately and is done in less than an hour. It’s ideal anytime you’re craving a really cozy soup without a lot of effort.

Fresh parsley and lemon juice really brighten up the flavors of this chicken soup, while orzo pasta adds heartiness without being too heavy. If you are not familiar, orzo is a tiny rice-shaped pasta. Because of its size, it works well in soups like this.

This zesty combination of lemon, chicken, veggies and pasta make this soup a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Servings: 6

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cooking time: 40 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.

by Kathy Dicken photography by Kathy Dicken

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp. unsalted butter

1 Tbsp. olive oil

2 sticks celery, diced small

2 medium carrots, peeled/diced small

1/2 medium onion, diced small

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 Tbsp. flour

8 cups chicken broth

1/4 tsp. Italian seasoning

1 lb. uncooked chicken breasts

1/2 cup uncooked orzo pasta

1-2 Tbsp. lemon juice

Garnish: chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Melt butter and oil in a large soup pot and add the celery, carrots and onions. Sauté over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, then add the flour and cook for another minute. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the flour has dissolved, then add the Italian seasoning and chicken. Bring the soup to a simmer. Cover the soup, with lid slightly open, reduce the heat to medium. Simmer for 15 minutes.

Stir in the orzo and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes or until the orzo is cooked through. Stir often, as orzo tends to stick to the bottom of the pot. After 10 minutes, remove chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that chicken has reached 165 degrees, or is cooked through. When chicken is done, shred with two forks, and add back to the soup. Finally, add lemon juice and zest, if desired. Garnish with parsley and enjoy!

Notes

We use the brand Better Than Bouillon (Low Sodium) to make chicken broth. I find it easier than buying the boxes of broth.

If you have leftovers, you may need to add an additional cup of chicken broth, as the orzo soaks it up when stored.

A Taste of

Modern-day general store adds artisan ice cream

Nostalgia

As the towns snugged up to Lake Norman’s shoreline go, the Denver area is probably one of the last bastions with that small town feel that brought many folks to the lake area in the first place. Yes, it is certainly experiencing its own dose of development growing pains, there is absolutely no denying that. But there are still certain parts of town where towering oaks remain, horses roam across rolling farmland and houses with rich histories still stand.

One such house is on Campground Road, where the husband-andwife team of Patrick and Kristen Martin established a welcoming and warm boutique in 2022 filled with home décor items, size-inclusive women’s clothing, even Patrick’s ingenious woodcarvings. It became a beautiful and fun shopping destination for many, and sometimes just a place to pop in and chat with the eternally effervescent Kristen.

But as she will tell you, she and Patrick are in constant dreaming mode – ever envisioning the next thing that will enhance their clients’ shopping experience, the next prospect to meet more of their

by Lori Helms photography by Lisa Crates

Denver neighbors and reach out to their community.

That most recent “next thing” became artisan ice cream. Last May, the boutique rebranded as Lake Norman Mercantile & Creamery, and a new phase in the Martins’ small business journey began. Through a partnership with a small creamery in Indiana called Bliss Artisan, the boutique is now not just a feast for the eyes but for the tastebuds, as well.

“We wanted to be like a modern general store,” Kristen says, and with the addition of the option to enjoy a cone or cup of something tasty, it’s safe to say they’ve hit their target. They have an exclusive relationship with Bliss Artisan, which means Lake Norman Mercantile & Creamery is currently the only place in North Carolina to sample the rotating selection of more than 60 flavors.

Calling an ice cream “artisan” means that it’s not highly manufactured. If it’s named “Pecan Pie,” that means there are actual chunks of crumbled

Above and left, scooper Justice Anderson serves up a creamy delight for a very patient Sophia Martin; below, Rowan McNally shows off her sweet treat in a cone.

up pecan pie in it rather than artificial flavoring. There is also not a lot of air folded into the mix, whereas some commercially produced ice cream can contain as much as 60 percent air. And there are gluten-free options available for those with dietary restrictions.

“It’s truly small batch,” she says. “They only make three little containers at a time.” Kristen says whenever they place an order, the ice cream is made fresh just for them. It’s then directly transported to Denver in Bliss Artisan’s own vans, usually arriving around midnight, ready for customers the next day.

The Martins say the addition of the ice cream counter has been very popular – it’s helped people find them at a location that is far from the retail and commercial crush at the intersection of N.C. Highways 16 and 73 well to the south.

Kristen says her favorite place as a kid was the general store she would go to when visiting her grandmother. Confessing to being kind of nostalgic, she says that is one of her most cherished childhood memories, and she wants that for the next generation, too.

“We didn’t want to just be another boutique, we wanted to be family-centric,” she says. “Imagine, this place could be part of some kid’s childhood memories, that they went to the mercantile to get ice cream in the summer. That would be so cool.”

Experience cool and creamy at Lake Norman Mercantile & Creamery, 6608 Campground Road, Denver. More information is available at www.lakenormanmercantile.com as well as on Facebook and Instagram.

BEER

with Benefits

Hoptown Brewing’s community service

by Julie Higgie | photography by Julie Higgie

Mooresville’s Hoptown Brewing Company is celebrating its fourth year of community service, which this year will include the nonprofit Bridge of Hearts, where the mission is simple – to bring joy to impoverished children. That’s why the organization is one of four charities chosen to be highlighted for Hoptown’s 2024-2025 fundraising year.

“Joy is the secret sauce to living,” says Hoptown Brewing Company’s owner Sandy Plemmons, who also calls herself “Director of Customer ExBEERience” for the brewery. Hoptown not only survived its grand opening during the Coronavirus pandemic but is celebrating its fourth anniversary of spreading joy and hope throughout the Lake Norman community by annually supporting four nonprofit organizations.

Plemmons, who owns the brewery along with her husband Scott Plemmons and a group of investors, says her mission this year is not only to raise money for the charities, but also to create a better awareness of each one.

Joy is important, Plemmons says, “because you can get caught up pretty quickly in the sadness and anger of society on social media. So, we want to create a place where we can focus on helping people while everyone is having fun.”

Normally, money is raised when customers buy the brewery’s Sip It Forward Beer, which is a smooth blonde ale, and then place a token in one of several boxes on the brewery’s wall designated for different nonprofits. But this year, money was also raised by Hoptown’s Sip It Forward 5K Run and/or 1 Mile Walk which was held March 23. Also last month, Hoptown presented checks to the nonprofit recipients for 2023-2024: The Christian Mission, Rescue Ranch, Cool Kids Clubhouse and Rainbow Kidz. In addition to Bridge of Hearts, the nonprofits chosen for this year are the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte, Piedmont Animal Rescue and FOODiversity.

“We are so grateful to Sandy and Scott Plemmons for having a heart to give back to the community,” says Bridge of Hearts Director Linda Morris about being chosen. The mission of Bridge of Hearts is not only to help impoverished school children celebrate their birthdays, but also to provide healthful snacks so school counselors can distribute them to children who are hungry when they come to school.

“We are so excited to be one of the charities they highlight this coming year,” Morris says. “They are providing an opportunity for us to not only raise funds for our programs, but also to have a platform to introduce ourselves to the community and make connections. We are very grateful.”

In its first year of operation, Hoptown’s customers were able to help raise $14,584 for charities. Now, the charities are chosen by applications and interviews using a scale of four points. The applications are reviewed by employees and investors.

“Our goal of raising money for charities was born out of the desire to not just be a business, but to also serve the community,” Plemmons says. “And raising awareness is even more important — it will last longer.”

Plemmons wants her customers to know that they don’t have to contribute solely by purchasing Sip It Forward Beer. They can also pay an extra dollar (or any other amount) when purchasing Hoptown products, to receive a token to place in the nonprofit-designated boxes on the brewery wall.

Sandy and Scott Plemmons at the “Sip It Forward” wall, where customers donate to the charity of their choice through tokens.

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