Lake Norman CURRENTS May 2026

May Flowers

There are key moments that make May feel like May.

The school year is winding down, and calendars are filling quickly— graduations, performances, and end-of-year celebrations that seem to arrive all at once. Summer plans are beginning to take shape across Lake Norman, from vacations and camps to weekends on the water. There’s an energy to it—a shared sense of excitement for the adventures ahead.

And we get that brief, perfect stretch of weather—sunny, a little breezy, just before the humidity settles in. It’s pure heaven.

It’s also the season of flowers.

The kind you pick up on your way to see someone you love. The kind that sit on kitchen counters and front porches. The kind given in celebration, in gratitude, and in remembrance. Flowers have a way of saying what we sometimes can’t—marking the moments that matter.

With Mother’s Day, we celebrate the women who shape our lives in countless ways—mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, mentors, and friends. The ones who show up, support us, and guide us through life in both big and quiet ways. It’s a day that doesn’t fit into a single definition, and that’s what makes it so special.

As someone who was adopted, Mother’s Day has always held personal significance for me. It’s a celebration of the one who gave me life and the one who gave me love and unwavering support. I was also fortunate to grow up with a stepmother I cherished and learned so much from—three different roles, each deserving of respect, gratitude, and recognition.

My mom used to recite this poem to me often when I was little: Not flesh of my flesh nor bone of my bone, but still miraculously my own. Never forget for a single minute, you grew not under my heart, but in it.

It’s a signature poem of the adoption experience, and it made me feel special and gave me a profound sense of belonging.

Today, it serves as a reminder that motherhood isn’t defined by a single path, but by the depth of love it holds. As a mother myself, I understand that love more completely. It’s the greatest gift—to bear witness to my two incredible human beings and to walk alongside them as they grow. Just a few weeks later, Memorial Day brings a different kind of reflection. Across our community, it’s a time to honor those who gave their lives in service to our country and to recognize the families who carry that loss forward. It asks us, even briefly, to pause and remember.

In many ways, May holds both at once—celebration and reflection, joy and remembrance, presence and pause.

As you move through the month, I hope you take advantage of this brief, beautiful stretch—whether that means time on the lake, evenings with friends, or simply slowing down enough to take it all in. Bring the flowers. Say thank you. Remember someone. Celebrate the people you love.

Warmly,

Lauren Editor CurrentsLauren@gmail.com

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May Merriment

Finally time to get outside for some festival fun!

Hello Huntersville Music & Arts Festival

May 3 | 1–6 p.m.

Veterans Park, Huntersville

FREE Admission

This annual celebration of local creativity features original works from regional artists, hands-on activities like weaving, mosaic art, and mural painting, plus live music at the amphitheater. With vendors, entertainment, and interactive experiences throughout, it’s a lively afternoon for all ages.

Mooresville Day X Race City Festival

May 9 | 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Downtown Mooresville

FREE Admission

A dynamic mash-up event takes over downtown with food trucks, live performances, a family fun zone, local vendors, and breweries. Expect a high-energy day packed with entertainment and community spirit.

Charlotte Asian & Dragon Boat Festival

May 16 | 7:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

Ramsey Creek Park, Cornelius

FREE Admission

Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander culture through dance, games, food, and family-friendly activities. The highlight: competitive dragon boat races, with opportunities to participate individually or as a team.

Cornelius Jazz Festival

May 16 | 6–10 p.m.

Smithville Park, Cornelius

FREE Admission

This family-friendly festival features live jazz performances, local craft beer, food trucks, and activities for kids—an easygoing evening of music and community.

Magic in Bloom

Aurora Flora flower farm invites you to pick, gather, and enjoy the season

by Bek Mitchell-Kidd | photography by Brecklyn Simmons Photography & Aurora Flora.

Aurora Flora, a pick-your-own flower farm in Mooresville, is scheduled to open for its fourth season this month.

People of all ages show up for the joy of cutting their own flowers— because who doesn’t love a little hands-on beauty? With a picture-perfect backdrop in every row, owner Devery Bellingham’s field attracts everyone from teens chasing the perfect social media post to couples and families looking for something a little different.

Devery says, “My favorite spring flowers that people drool over are peonies and forget-me-nots. I always include the blue sprigs of forget-me-nots in Mother’s Day bouquets because I want all women to feel loved on Mother’s Day—women who have never had the chance to carry a baby of their own, those who have lost babies, or those who have lost their own mothers. My flowers have meaning because I genuinely care about how they make people feel.”

Devery grows what works. By that, she explains she plants what naturally does well in North Carolina, which is why you won’t find roses at the farm—they don’t thrive in the Southern humidity and heat. She adds, “There are other flowers that look just as pretty and are even more sought after, including lisianthus and dahlias.”

There are also sunflowers—in all shades of red, orange, yellow, and white—along with unique zinnias and celosias. “I make sure to grow things that you’ll never find in a grocery store,” says Devery.

When the world shut down in March 2020, Devery planted a tiny 4×8-foot cutting garden—just enough to fill her family table with fresh flowers and share with a few friends each week. That spring, she delivered ranunculus to doorsteps, “doorbell ditching” to stay safe. “Flowers kept me sane,” she says, and that’s when she knew it could become a career.

Driven by that desire for connection and to share the emotional lift fresh flowers bring, Devery and her husband purchased land on Judas Road and named it Aurora Flora in honor of their daughter. Devery shares, “The farm is still a family affair. My husband and children help me occasionally, though it’s mostly me doing the work—it’s a labor of love. I have friendly teenagers who help a couple of times a week with weeding and mowing, and you’ll also see them at u-picks helping customers. They are the cutest.”

The farmstand, which features ready-to-go flowers, is now open. Devery says, “I’m surprised at how much people have enjoyed the pre-made wrapped bouquets—just as much as coming to pick the flowers themselves. They both serve a purpose, and I’m amazed at how much the pre-made bouquets have taken off.”

There’s also plenty of room to stay awhile—pack a picnic, bring your lawn chairs, relax under the provided shady umbrellas, or challenge your crew to a game of cornhole.

Details:

Purchase a farmstand grab-and-go bouquet (typically available Fridays), or purchase a ticket in advance to pick your own. Choose a cup, which holds approximately 20–25 stems, or a bucket, which holds approximately 60–75 stems (typically available Friday and Saturday).

Visit auroraflora.net for hours, tickets, and to sign up for the newsletter for tips on everything from weed prevention to the mental health benefits of fresh flowers.

Before the Breaking Point:

by Jeff Hamm photography courtesy of Alongside Families

How Alongside Families is Keeping Families Together

There’s a particular kind of quiet that settles in when a family is in crisis—the kind that goes unnoticed by neighbors, by schools, by anyone passing by. A single mom heading into a medical procedure with no one to call. A father of four choosing between going to work and getting his daughter to a hospital treatment. A mother in a homeless shelter, newly diagnosed with cancer, weighing chemotherapy against the simple, impossible question of who will watch her children.

These aren’t hypothetical scenarios. They’re real stories that have unfolded right here in the greater Charlotte and Lake Norman area— and they’re exactly the kind of moments that Alongside Families was built for.

Founded in 2017 by social worker Emily Kemmann, Alongside Families operates from a belief that is both simple and quietly radical: most families don’t need to be separated—they need to be supported. More than 80 percent of children in North Carolina’s foster care system are there because of neglect, not abuse. And neglect, as any trained social worker will tell you, can often be prevented with something as fundamental as relationship.

“No family should face crisis in isolation,” says Meghan Macy, the organization’s COO, who speaks about this work with the kind of quiet conviction that makes you lean in. “We mobilize to come alongside and serve.”

The organization’s model is built around two core offerings: temporary hosting for children while families in crisis stabilize, and wraparound community support to address the underlying vulnerabilities that got them there. Since its founding, Alongside Families has provided 350 child hostings, covering nearly 5,000 nights of care; connected close to 500 isolated families with communities; and reunified 100 percent of children with their parents.

That last number is worth sitting with for a moment.

Mary Kay Portaro, a real estate broker in the Lake Norman area who has been volunteering with Alongside Families nearly since its inception, experienced that outcome firsthand. Years ago, she and her

husband welcomed two young children—ages one and almost two— into their home while their mother, who was homeless and in crisis, worked to stabilize her life. Within two months, the mom had secured childcare vouchers, found a job, and moved into an apartment.

The kids came home.

“That little girl was almost two,” Mary Kay recalls. “She’s nine now. Her mom and I still text pretty much every day.”

What’s striking about Alongside Families is the intentional architecture of its community. The organization partners with approximately 15 churches across Mecklenburg County—stretching from Lake Norman south to the Ballantyne and Matthews areas—because they believe volunteers thrive when they, too, are embedded in community. Those who want to serve directly as host families, community friends, or family coaches connect through one of these partner churches. But there are meaningful ways to get involved outside that structure as well—through a crisis support line, a monthly prayer team, or simply by spreading awareness.

For families who need help, the door opens easily: Alongside Families hosts ongoing 30-minute online interest meetings, no commitment required.

As 2026 gets underway, the team is seeing more referral calls than ever before—a bittersweet signal that both the need and the organization’s reputation are growing. New initiatives include a structured three-month Community Friends arrangement, connecting isolated individuals with a dedicated volunteer for a defined season of friendship. It’s a small thing, perhaps, on paper. But as Mary Kay puts it: “A lot of people may have family—just not healthy family to leave their children with.”

Our community is generous. Lake Norman is full of people with capacity—time, skills, presence, warmth. Alongside Families simply asks that some of that capacity move a little closer to families who are hurting.

A Taste of Italy in Ronda, NC

48 Hours in North Carolina’s Little Italy

by Vanessa Infanzon

Over the past 20 years, four boutique vineyards featuring Italian wines have popped up in Ronda, a small town in Wilkes County, just 55 miles north of Lake Norman. The beautiful drive through the countryside leads visitors to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, specifically the Brushy Mountains.

The vineyards highlight the views with outdoor seating, special events, live music, and food trucks. Each vineyard serves award-winning red and white wines by the flight, glass, and bottle. Tastings offer a chance to ask questions and learn detailed information about each varietal.

Ready to go? Here’s a weekend itinerary to follow:

Friday

Book two nights at a local Airbnb, such as Frog Holler Cabins in Elkin or Wine Country Cottage in Ronda. A home base between the vineyards and the 20- to 30-minute drive to Elkin, North Wilkesboro, and Wilkesboro offers a convenient place to relax. Piccione Vineyards opens at noon. Bill Piccione, a Cornelius resident, attended classes at the Italian Sommelier Guild in Chicago before planting vines in 2010 and launching Piccione Vineyards’ tasting room in 2015. Order a flight and enjoy four wines, including Rosato and Vermentino. Kids and dogs are welcome. Can’t wait? The

winery distributes to Lake Norman Wine Cottage in Davidson.

Purchase tickets for the North Wilkesboro Historic Streets and Downtown Eats Twilight Tour by Blue Ridge Food Tours, a threehour excursion beginning at 4 p.m. The guided walking tour makes six to eight stops for drinks, nibbles, and shopping.

Saturday

Head to The Wild Flour Bistro in Elkin for bagels, homemade cream cheese, biscuits and gravy, baked goods, and coffee. Depending on when you’re in the area, check out what’s blooming at Late Bloomers Flower Farm in Elkin. They host pick-your-own events and plan special evening activities during the growing season.

Sotrio Vineyards and Winery opens at noon. Owners Bill and Teresa Piastuch welcomed guests to the tasting room in 2024. Sotrio—an acronym for “Somewhere Over The Rainbow Is Ours”—is both a microbrewery and a vineyard, with a reserve list featuring 2021 Montepulciano, 2020 Sagrantino, 2022 Sangiovese, and 2022 Teroldego. They welcome kids and dogs and stock board games and playing cards for a family-friendly atmosphere.

Steps away from Sotrio is another kid- and dog-friendly establishment: Castello Barone Vineyards & Winery, a winery focused on Old World–style varietals from Italy and France. The tasting

room opened in late 2023, with Scott and Elizabeth Barone at the helm. Often, Scott pours wine and answers questions at the tasting bar. Laconia Ale Works in Sparta provides an exclusive Mexican lager and pale ale for this vineyard. Ticketed events, such as Neil Diamond Night on May 15, are planned throughout the year.

Make reservations at 6th and Main, an upscale restaurant serving chef-inspired dishes, including lobster bisque, pan-seared crab cakes, and mushroom ravioli. Up the street at Cinder Bistro, pair barbecue, brisket, shrimp and grits, or fried green tomato with craft beer from Boone, West Jefferson, and Whitsett.

Sunday

Cagney’s Kitchen of Wilkesboro offers breakfast and lunch with a diner vibe— plenty of seating, a wide variety of options, and large portions. Look for specials throughout the week.

Finish your weekend with a visit to Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery; the vineyard opens at noon on Sundays. The Italian villa strikes a pose in the picturesque landscape. Book a balcony or piazza table, or schedule a guided wine tasting featuring eight wines. The winery hosts the annual Festa Italiana during the third weekend in September. Guests can learn about the winery, tour the vineyards, listen to music, and, of course, enjoy the wine.

Day Trippers

For a day trip, visit one or two of the vineyards and enjoy a late lunch from one of the food trucks, or head into North Wilkesboro for dinner. If you want to leave the driving to someone else, book a trip with companies such as Ashe County Livery, Elkin Vine Line, NC Wine Gals, or Yadkin Valley Wine Tours.

For more information, visit visitwilkes.com.

by

The Business of Strolling

Like most teenagers, siblings Jack and Katie Yenichek have had a string of random jobs in Cornelius, the city where they were born and raised. They’ve blended smoothies, worked as camp counselors, even donned black-and-white stripes to serve as referees for six-year-olds dribbling across the court in the Cornelius-Davidson Recreational Basketball League.

The duo was raised to believe in hard work from an early age. Jack, a sophomore at the University of Dayton, and Katie, a freshman at Appalachian State University, are third-generation entrepreneurs. Their grandfather has run a beloved small-town restaurant in New York for decades, their mom runs her own consulting firm, and their dad is a local teacher who runs a coaching business on the side. So no one was surprised earlier this spring when the Yenichek kids launched a business that would help others at the same time.

Katie explains, “My brother and I are very passionate about our community, and we love everything it has given us, so we came up with a

way to give back. We both love to be outdoors and be active, so we thought about a way to get other people active and include the small businesses that have helped us so much over the years.”

The Cornelius Small Business Stroll will take place Saturday, May 9—a community celebration of Small Business Appreciation Week. Participants will complete a 5K course that has them checking out a dozen local businesses along the route, with each stop giving away a sample of their offerings. The 5K is a loop from Lake Norman Nutrition to Al’s Bar and Grille, with staggered starting points for crowd control.

“I’m taking a business class in school this semester, and this is part of a project that’s supposed to teach us about having a job,” Jack says. “I really wanted to find a way to help support the small businesses in Cornelius that have helped me my whole life. I know they lost a lot of business at the beginning of the year because of the winter storms, so we came up with this plan to create a steady flow of people throughout the day, and all the businesses have to do is provide a small sample or product.”

Samantha Birch is the owner of Lake Norman Nutrition, the first stop along the route. “I love this idea! We talk about it a lot, the fact that small businesses are what make this community what it is, and we’re so excited that someone wants to work with local businesses. We have the best community, and even when we’ve had tough times like the pandemic, being a part of this community is what makes it better.”

Birch’s partner at Lake Norman Nutrition, Patrick Magee, adds, “Just like anybody else, we’ve had struggles, but every time we have to make a push, the community has helped us, whether we had to raise prices slightly or we’ve run short on cups because of supply chain issues, the community has always been so supportive. That’s why we immediately said yes when Jack came to us. We say it all the time, this is the biggest small town where everybody knows everybody. Most people in Cornelius are transplants, so it’s

a tight-knit community of people lifting each other up.”

Ryan Barrett agrees. The director at In Motion Fitness is also looking forward to participating in the Small Business Stroll. “If we didn’t have these businesses, would Lake Norman be as good? We have a lot of small businesses here and I love that people support us. As small businesses, we have a stake in the game. We’re what make the area great. These people live and work here, and Katie and Jack understand that because they live here, so we’re really excited about this.”

Other businesses participating include The Dive Bar, Torrence and Knox, Harp and Crown LKN, Caffeto Specialty Coffee, Andy’s Custard and more.

Katie says she can’t wait for what they hope will be the first annual Small Business Stroll 5K.

“I’m most excited about getting all of the community involved and it will be fun because Jack and I go to these small businesses all the time and it will be awesome to give back to the people that gave us so much.”

If you’d like to participate, check out: https://runsignup.com/Race/Wizard/ 205107?step=1&newFundingAcctId=105790

When Horses Heal

There is something quietly extraordinary happening on the trails and in the barns of Shining Hope Farms. Amid the rhythm of hoofbeats and the unhurried pace of farm life, veterans who have carried the weight of combat—and everything that comes after—are finding their way back to themselves. Not through a pill or a protocol, but through the oldest of partnerships: a person and a horse.

Shining Hope Farms has been doing this kind of quiet, meaningful work for 24 years, growing from a single horse and a single patient in a Mount Holly backyard into a multi-location therapeutic organization now serving more than 17 counties across the region. What began as therapeutic riding has evolved into something far more expansive—a full clinical model offering physical, occupational, and speech therapy, alongside mental health counseling and adaptive riding. And woven through all of it is an abiding commitment to the men and women who have served our country.

At the heart of that commitment is the farm’s veterans program, Saddles and Salutes. Executive Director Patrice Gibson describes it as curriculum-based—veterans learn to ride, to communicate with,

and to bond with horses. But the deeper work, she explains, is almost impossible to put into words.

“When you take a veteran who has been in an alpha state in combat, and then they come back and are expected to just return to normal life,” Gibson says, “their body’s been in this alpha state, and it can’t self-regulate back down to neutral.”

The horse, it turns out, is uniquely suited to help with exactly that. It isn’t just folklore. The movement of a horse at a walk mirrors the natural gait of a human being, and something in that rhythm—in the warm, grounding presence of an animal that prefers routine and calm—speaks to a nervous system that has been on high alert for far too long. Veterans enrolled in the program often sleep better. Spouses notice changes before the veterans themselves do. The barn becomes, in its own understated way, a kind of sanctuary.

Cindy Demers, who oversees operations and community engagement, has spent a lifetime around horses—managing a hunter-jumper farm for over two decades before relocating to North Carolina and

eventually finding her way to Shining Hope as a volunteer. “Coming to a horse creates a routine,” she explains.

“They’re like large toddlers—they like routine. And doing that with horses has a very calming effect on people who have gone through trauma.” What’s striking is how accessible that healing is: participants don’t even have to ride. Simply being near the horse begins the process.

The farm’s accreditation through PATH—the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship—sets it apart as the only organization of its kind in the area operating at this level across all three locations. No family pays out of pocket for veterans services. Every session is funded through community partnerships, donations, and events like the farm’s signature Saddles and Salutes Trail Run, now in its sixth year. This year, the event takes place Saturday, September 12, on the grounds of the Conover farm—more than 100 wooded acres that make the trail itself feel less like a fundraiser and more like a gift.

Gibson came to Shining Hope through Milinda Kirkpatrick, the organization’s founder and a longtime family friend. She arrived intending to help with a golf tournament and never really left. Her father served in the military. Her uncles, her grandfathers—the military has always been close to her heart. “To be able to give back to those who have given so much to us,” she says, “that feels very rare.”

In our community, we are fortunate to have organizations like Shining Hope Farms doing work that is both rooted in science and animated by something harder to measure—genuine care. The horses don’t know about PTSD or trauma or the invisible weight some of our neighbors carry home from service. They only know presence. And sometimes, that is exactly enough.

To learn more, volunteer, or register for the Saddles and Salutes Trail

on September 12, visit shininghopefarms.org.

Be Original

One-of-a-kind pieces elevate your space

There’s something transformative about a piece that feels just right in a space.

It has a way of opening a room—bringing in light, creating balance, and drawing the eye with a quiet sense of intention. Whether it’s a single statement work, a curated wall of smaller pieces, or a thoughtfully placed object, these elements shape not only how a space looks, but how it feels.

The most compelling spaces aren’t necessarily the most minimal—they’re the most considered. Layered over time, they reflect personal stories, meaningful moments, and pieces chosen not just for how they fit, but for how they resonate.

You may see a series arranged with rhythm and movement, or a singular piece anchoring a room. In either case, the effect is the same: the space feels more inviting, more complete, more alive. Refreshing a space doesn’t always require starting over. Sometimes, it’s simply the addition of something meaningful— something that shifts the energy of a room and changes how you experience it every day.

-Jacque Bassett, Owner Juelerye & Gifts

Be Spirited

Upper

Juelerye Artisan Gallery & Gifts

112 S. Main Street

Mooresville, NC 28115

Open 7 Days a Week

Sunday & Monday: 11am–3pm

Tuesday–Saturday: 10am–5:30pm

Call or Text:

704-728-0460

704-728-9880

The Future Of Luxury In Lake Norman

DESIGNING FOR LIFESTYLE, WELLNESS, AND SOPHISTICATED COMFORT

Luxury homebuilding is undergoing a quiet but powerful transformation. Bigger is no longer the primary goal, and neutrality is being replaced with intention. Today’s high-end homes are designed less as status symbols and more as deeply personal environments—places that support individual lifestyles, wellness, and sophisticated comfort.

This shift is taking place across the United States, but especially here in the Lake Norman area, where the demand for high-quality buildable lots is far outpacing supply. This sense of entrenched value is empowering buyers and homeowners with a boldness to make their living experience uniquely their own. While this may mean something different to each individual, the emerging trends are clear: timeless, warm, and authentic. Design is centered on the family’s needs in the here and now—not a future buyer. The result is bold colors, dedicated specialty-use spaces, and a return to timeless architecture.

“The primary suite should serve to rejuvenate and inspire.”

Architecture That Feels Timeless

One of the most notable shifts in luxury homebuilding is a divergence in design style. There is a move away from the contemporary look and stark modernism toward architectural warmth. Yes, the “Tony Stark” ultramodern home still has its market, but many owners are now seeking traditional styles—homes inspired by European estates, English cottages, and classic Southern architecture.

Arched openings, painted brick exteriors, natural stone accents, and real wood detailing are increasingly common. Rather than relying on dramatic visual statements, designers are layering textures and materials to create depth and character. Buyers want homes that feel established from the moment they are completed—homes that appear timeless and welcoming.

The all-white interior palette is being quickly replaced as well. Color saturation, texture, and warmth are the new ideal. Buyers want a home that feels immediately cozy and thoughtfully reflects the individuality of the family. Creams, soft taupes, muted greens, walnut finishes, and aged brass accents create interiors that feel relaxed and inviting. Rather than stark minimalism, designers are embracing layered warmth and organic textures.

Spaces to Cultivate Joy

More and more buyers are looking for spaces in their homes to nourish and cultivate their interests. These dedicated-use spaces are becoming must-haves in the new definition of home. For the golf enthusiast, this may mean golf simulator rooms and speakeasies—or even an outdoor chipping and putting green poolside. For the bookworm, a custom-built library with the perfect lighting, fireplace, and reading nook. For the yogi, a dedicated studio complete with a red-light therapy sauna.

This is where homeowners get to let their imagination run wild. Buyers have learned that they don’t have to outsource all of their hobbies. These spaces transform homes into destinations—reducing the need to leave for entertainment or recreation and creating more opportunities to gather with friends and family.

Primary Suites as Private Retreats

Perhaps nowhere is the evolution of luxury more visible than in the primary suite. Bedrooms are no longer simply sleeping spaces—they are personal sanctuaries designed to rival boutique hotel experiences.

Fireplaces, morning bars, and boutique-style closets are increasingly common features. Bathrooms have transformed into spa-like environments, incorporating wet rooms, steam showers, heated flooring, and layered lighting systems that adapt throughout the day.

The primary suite should serve to rejuvenate and inspire. It is a place for wellness and rest. While the kitchen remains the heart of the home, the primary suite refreshes the heart of the homeowner.

Luxury living begins and ends with comfort and authenticity. It is no longer defined solely by appearance, but by how a home supports wellness, longevity, and balance. The modern luxury home is less about spectacle and more about experience.

As architecture continues to evolve, one principle remains clear: true luxury lies not in excess, but in intentional design. Homes are becoming more personal, more functional, and more connected to the people who live within them.

Stephen Chuilli President, Lagniappe Homes stephen@lagniappe-homes.com

LAKE NORMAN’S

WHO’S WHO?

Around Lake Norman, great businesses start with great people. This “Who’s Who” feature is your introduction to the faces behind the work—and the stories that brought them here.

Please tell us your Lake Norman story. What brought you here—and what made you stay?

I relocated from Los Angeles to raise my children in a community that values balance and connection. The lifestyle and strong sense of community made it easy to feel at home—and even easier to stay.

What are you most passionate about when it comes to your work?

I love the balance of organization and unpredictability in real estate—no two days are ever the same. I enjoy problem-solving and take pride in helping my clients feel confident and cared for throughout the process.

How do you stay connected or give back to the local community?

I stay connected by supporting local charities, sponsoring youth sports teams, and hosting neighborhood events. I love being part of what makes this community so special.

WHO’S WHO? LAKE NORMAN’S

Giovanna Antonacci Owner

Crown Waste & Recycling Systems LLC

Years in Business: 6 years in North Carolina; 68 years in New York

Please tell us your Lake Norman story. What brought you here—and what made you stay?

What started as a vacation destination quickly turned into both a home and a business opportunity. We first came to Lake Norman in 2015 and fell in love with the area. In 2020, during COVID, we launched our business here and never looked back.

What inspired you to pursue your career or start your business?

Our grandparents started the company in New York in 1958, so the waste industry has always been part of our family. Today, we operate in both New York and North Carolina. We’re a thirdgeneration, family-owned business— myself and my two brothers, Nick and Chris, are the owners.

What are you most passionate about when it comes to your work?

I love meeting new people and working with a wide range of clients. As a woman-owned waste management company, we bring a unique perspective to an industry where that’s not always expected.

What sets you or your business apart?

We offer a full range of services— from residential trash and recycling to commercial services, compactors, and demolition dumpsters—allowing us to serve a wide variety of customers.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Work hard, invest in yourself and your business, and never give up. As they say, “Scared money don’t make money.”

WHO’S WHO?

Michael J. Foran, DMD

Michael J. Coleman, DDS

Oral & Facial Surgeons

Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery

Year Founded: 1985

Please tell us your Lake Norman story. What brought you here – what made you stay?

(Dr. Foran)

In 2015, I left the Army after 12 years and entered private practice near Ft. Benning, Georgia. While I enjoyed it, I was looking for something more fulfilling. A colleague with Novant introduced me to my current partner, who was seeking another surgeon. After a few years, I became a partner and have been here ever since. My family and I have loved the lake lifestyle and the proximity to Charlotte.

What inspired you to pursue your career or start your business?

(Dr. Foran)

I attended dental school through a U.S. Army scholarship. While serving during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, I saw oral surgeons treating facial trauma on the battlefield. That experience inspired me to pursue this specialty.

What sets you or your business apart?

We are a small, locally owned partnership. We live and work in this community and have raised our families here. As many practices shift toward corporate models, we take pride in keeping our care personal, consistent, and rooted in longterm relationships.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Work hard, treat people well, and always do your best.

How do you stay connected or give back to the local community?

(Both)

We support local races, fun runs, high school athletics, and Davidson College athletics.

Luxury Real Estate Broker

Waterfront Specialist

Ivester Jackson

Christie’s International Real Estate Years in Business: 25+

Please tell us your Lake Norman story. What brought you here— and what made you stay?

I grew up in San Diego, California, so I’ve always been drawn to water and that relaxed, coastal lifestyle. Lake Norman gave me that same feeling, but with a strong sense of community and opportunity. What made me stay is the people, the lifestyle, and the ability to build a business in a place that truly feels like home.

What inspired you to pursue your career or start your business?

My competitive nature started early—I was a Division I athlete—and real estate became a natural outlet for that drive, while also allowing me to serve people in a meaningful way. I love the strategy, the relationships, and the opportunity to advocate for my clients at a high level.

What sets you or your business apart?

My off-market network and hyperlocal knowledge of Lake Norman. I take a hands-on approach—my clients work directly with me from start to finish—and I’m intentional about positioning each listing at the highest level.

What do you love most about living and working around the Lake?

The lifestyle. It truly feels like a vacation town, with an incredible mix of lake living, great restaurants, and outdoor activities.

Currently loving: sunset boat rides, waterfront dining, and time on the tennis court.

Tell us your Lake Norman story. What brought you here—and what made you stay?

I lived in Miami Beach until I was 17, then attended UNCC and quickly fell in love with Lake Norman. I’ve always been drawn to the water, and this community felt like home.

What inspired your career?

My great-grandmother worked in real estate during

the Depression. She and my grandfather were inspirations for me.

What sets you apart?

With 38 years in real estate, I believe experience matters. I’ve been honored as the top residential agent since 2013.

Best advice?

Talk less. Listen more.

WHO’S WHO? LAKE NORMAN’S

Simone El Bey

Visual Arts and Education Director Cain Center for the Arts

What inspired you to pursue your career or start your business?

I’ve always been involved in the arts and arts education. What made the difference for me at Cain Center were the people— the community members who love art as much as I do. It was both inspiring and affirming.

Give us a little background – how did your journey lead you here?

I’ve always loved galleries, but also what art does for the heart and mind in a classroom. When I applied five years ago, I was excited by the idea of bringing it all together—galleries, classrooms, students, and community.

What sets you or your business apart? Cain Center isn’t just responding to a love of art—it’s nurturing the desire to be an artist in all forms. From visual arts to performance, we’re creating space for people to explore creativity in meaningful ways.

How do you stay connected or give back to the local community? Professionally, I’m proud to be part of launching Puckett Pottery House in Cornelius—a shared space designed for creativity, connection, and community. It reflects our commitment to making the arts accessible and welcoming to all.

Personally, I stay grounded by supporting local outreach efforts—helping families in need, organizing donations, and spending time in senior living communities.

What are you currently loving right now?

I’m currently loving the show Will Trent and reading Strong Ground by Brené Brown—it’s grounding and strengthening at the same time.

Limitless

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

AUBIE

My Artificial Intelligence Assistant

by Mickey Dunaway

“Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” — Winston Churchill, at the victorious end of WWII in North Africa.

“May you live in interesting times.” — A curse widely attributed to the Arab world.

The “Arab curse” is certainly interesting and perhaps rather appropriate for the times we live in. But is the source accurate? So I decided to check it out with my newest research assistant—Aubie.

Aubie is what I call my version of ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence program folks are using these days for everything from recipes to sermons to fixing grammar and answering oddball questions.

Aubie responded in milliseconds that the so-called “Arab curse” was probably not Arab at all, but something that seems to have come out of British political circles back in the 1930s.

Interesting. Perhaps this artificial intelligence business might have some practical use after all.

To give some perspective on where we are, I considered the technological changes my generation has lived through—and did not always take to. The changes in my everyday life since about 1954—when I guess I first started remembering much—have mostly come one practical step at a time. And when you stop and look back, it is still pretty amazing.

Power windows. Manual typewriters that acted like they had a personal grudge against me. Interstate highways we take for granted. The first color television I saw was at Auburn in 1967.

Today, televisions are flat, huge, and hanging on the wall like framed art. Party-line phones. Today’s smartphones and computers.

There was no online research for my dissertation in 1983. None. It all happened in the college library—exploring court cases on microfilm— and at the Mobile County Courthouse, investigating law books. I spent a summer driving 25 miles to the courthouse law library several days a week, where I spent scads of dollars feeding the copy machine a quarter at a time. Even then, I was not through—all the critical information had to be transferred by hand onto note cards.

It was not until I was ready to begin writing that I convinced my wife to let me purchase the now-iconic Apple IIe computer. It didn’t have a hard drive, so I had to save my work on 5.25-inch floppy disks— that were really floppy. There were no function keys, and Microsoft Word did not yet exist in the form we know today.

I gave up my Apple IIe as Microsoft took on the world, and I bought an IBM XT Personal Computer—with what seemed at the time like a miracle of modern engineering: a 10 MB hard drive. I stayed with Microsoft until 2010, when, as a professor at UNC Charlotte, we finally moved over to Apple iMacs, MacBooks, and iPads.

Today, at home, I work on an iMac, an iPad, and, every now and then, my wife’s MacBook. We all wear Apple Watches, use iPhones, and ask Siri things without giving it much thought. My 2024 Subaru Outback—and just about every other modern vehicle—has more electronics in it than NASA had in the 1960s.

What comes next, I do not know.

But even now, all my devices—including our Apple Siri smart home— can understand what I say and answer back more quickly than I could find the answer on my own. I have finally gotten over feeling silly talking to Siri at home or using Apple CarPlay in my Subaru.

Truth be told, I am more eager than scared about artificial intelligence, because in a lot of ways, we have already been using forms of AI for quite a while—and mostly to good effect.

When I asked Aubie (ChatGPT) for 10 examples of everyday devices that currently use AI, he responded:

1. Smartphones

2. Smart speakers (like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri)

3. Smart TVs

4. Robot vacuums

5. Smart thermostats

6. Cars

7. Smartwatches and fitness trackers

8. Home security cameras and video doorbells

9. Wireless earbuds and headphones

10.Smart appliances

Even with that list, there are good reasons to be cautious, and if you are not already a questioner, I would recommend watching the latest version of Battlestar Galactica again.

If we welcome the usefulness of AI but fail to put limits on it, we may someday regret turning over too much of our thinking to the machine. And that is how you wind up with mechanical aliens among us.

I asked Aubie to tell me his ideas about the positives and negatives of AI, and he replied:

“AI is a powerful tool: its positives are speed, scale, and assistance; its negatives are error, bias, and overdependence. It can amplify the best of human ability—or the worst of human judgment.”

Who Will Handle Your Affairs? Choosing the Right Fiduciary Matters

Choosing the right fiduciary is one of the most important—and often overlooked—decisions in estate planning. A “fiduciary” is simply a person (or sometimes an institution) you appoint to act on your behalf, with a legal duty to act in your best interests and handle your affairs with honesty, care, and loyalty. Common examples include an executor under your will, a trustee of your trust, or an agent under a power of attorney. These individuals are entrusted with significant legal authority and responsibility over your financial affairs and, in some cases, your personal well-being.

Many people choose a spouse or an adult child. While that can be appropriate, the role requires more than trust alone. A fiduciary must be organized, financially responsible, and capable of handling potentially complex tasks such as managing investments, paying debts, filing tax returns, and communicating with beneficiaries. In addition, it is critical that they remain impartial and level-headed, especially in situations where family dynamics may be strained.

When selecting a fiduciary, it is advisable to ask the individual about their availability and willingness. Serving in this role can be time-consuming and, at times, stressful. A candid conversation with the person you intend to name will help ensure

they understand the responsibilities and are comfortable accepting them.

In some cases, naming co-fiduciaries or a professional fiduciary—such as a trust company or attorney—may be advisable. This can provide added expertise and neutrality, particularly for larger or more complex estates. However, careful thought should be given to how multiple fiduciaries will work together to avoid unnecessary conflict or delay.

Ultimately, selecting the right fiduciary can help ensure your wishes are carried out efficiently and with minimal disruption. Thoughtful planning today can spare your loved ones significant stress and uncertainty in the future.

Amy Shue Isaacs Estate Administration/ Probate Attorney

The McIntosh Law Firm, P.C. www.mcintoshlawfirm.com/ attorneys/amy-shue-isaacs/ 704-892-1699

We provide rapid access to the newest treatments for cancer before they are widely available. Right here locally. Know all your options before you travel a long distance. Treating every person as a trial of ONE since 2005. Call us today at 704-947-6599 to see if you are eligible.

Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care

2147 Davie Ave., Statesville

Nestled off of Davie Avenue, minutes from Historic Downtown Statesville, and convenient to both I-77 & I-40.

• Assisted Living & Memory Care

• Deluxe, Private and Companion Suite options

• Residence Medical Director

• Full Service Dining Room

• Pet Friendly

• Transportation Services

• Social, Educational, Cultural, Devotional & Recreational programs

• Medication Management

• Assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, toileting and ambulation.

• Independent Living

• 1 and 2 Bedroom w/single car garage

• Full Kitchen w/ applicances including washer & dryer

• Weekly housekeeping

• Lunch & Dinner served daily

• Electricity, Cable, internet and Life Line Alert sysytem included

• Pet Friendly

Dine + Wine

Eating, drinking, cooking and fun

In Praise of the

Half Bottle

by Beth Anne Hickey, Advanced Sommelier (Court of Master Sommeliers), Editor of Vine Society Blog

In the culture of wine, scale often carries prestige. Grand formats— magnums, jeroboams, and beyond—signal celebration and abundance, the theater of a table in full voice. Yet, quietly occupying the other end of the spectrum is the half bottle. At 375 milliliters, it offers a different kind of appeal. If large formats are about spectacle, the half bottle is about ease—choosing what suits the moment, and nothing more.

A standard bottle can feel like too much for a solitary dinner, or even for two people who simply want a glass each. There is no need to plan ahead or justify opening it; it fits naturally into the rhythm of an evening, whether that is a midweek supper or something a little more considered. Even the ritual reflects this: opening a half bottle is simple and suits evenings when you want something good without committing to the whole bottle, especially without a Coravin, keeping things easy. The quiet delight—and indulgent splurge—of a half bottle of Champagne, just for oneself (think Laurent-Perrier), and the joy of having a thoughtful selection of half bottles at home for cozy afternoons beside the fire reading, or summer evenings watching the sunset—moments of indulgence just for oneself—whether that is something like Cadence Camerata, Opus One, or a Rostaing CôteRôtie, a decadent treat in its own right.

That same ease carries into how we explore wine. With less at stake, the drinker is freer to try something new: a mineral Chablis one evening, a supple Pinot Noir the next. Half bottles make experimen-

tation feel natural rather than deliberate, and restaurants understand this well. A thoughtful list will include them not as an afterthought but as a practical option—moving from a bright white with the first course to a more structured red with the main, without excess or complication. Even their development follows this logic, with wines in smaller formats tending to evolve a little faster and offering an earlier look at how a wine is unfolding. It is all part of the same idea: wine that works with the moment rather than against it.

Despite these advantages, the half bottle remains somewhat overlooked. It lacks the visual drama of larger formats and is often given less space on shop shelves, but for many drinkers, that is beside the point. Its value lies in the flexibility it offers in everyday life, adding a nimbleness to pairings—perhaps delighting last-minute dinner guests who love a light white while you prefer a rich red. Ultimately, the half bottle is about having the right amount at the right time. It allows a good bottle to be opened on impulse, enjoyed fully, and finished without second thought—something that feels, in its own way, like a quiet kind of luxury.

by Kathy Dicken

photography by Kathy Dicken

Dessert With Zest

Italian Orange Ricotta Cake

This Italian Orange Ricotta Cake is a simple yet refined dessert that stays incredibly moist thanks to the addition of creamy ricotta. Made in just one bowl with pantry staples and fresh orange zest, it offers a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture inspired by classic Italian baking. Its bright citrus aroma and elegant finish make it a perfect choice for spring celebrations or a simple afternoon treat.

A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving gives the cake that beautiful, rustic Italian bakery look and adds just a hint of sweetness to balance the bright orange zest. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Servings: 8

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:

1/2 cup unsalted butter (4 ounces), melted

1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta, drained 3/4 cup granulated sugar

3 large eggs, room temperature

2 tablespoons orange zest (from 2 medium oranges)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

For garnish: Powdered sugar

Fresh orange slices

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place a baking sheet in the oven to preheat. Butter the bottom and sides of a 9-inch round cake pan, then line it with a round piece of parchment paper and set aside. You can also use a springform pan if desired—just be sure to butter the sides very well.

While zesting your oranges, drain the ricotta cheese through a fine-mesh strainer. The water content of ricotta varies widely, so draining helps prevent a mushy center.

Melt the butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar and orange zest. Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar until fully incorporated.

Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Whisk until blended. Add the ricotta and mix until incorporated, about 30 seconds.

Add the flour, baking powder, and salt to the ricotta mixture and fold until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and gently tap the pan against the counter a few times to release air bubbles.

Place the pan on the preheated baking sheet and bake for 45–50 minutes (55–60 minutes if using a springform pan), or until the cake has a slight dome in the center, is lightly golden brown, and reaches an internal temperature of 190°F–200°F when tested with a digital thermometer.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes. Invert onto a cooling rack and let cool completely. Once cooled, sift powdered sugar over the top before serving. Garnish with fresh orange slices.

Notes

Storage:

This cake is best enjoyed the day it’s baked while fresh, moist, and full of flavor. If storing, wrap tightly or keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Gooey center:

If the outside is dark but the center is underbaked, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F, cover the top with foil, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.

Celebrating Mothers

ART GALLERYARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

Mooresville Arts (704)663-6661 Mooresville

ARTS, CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT

Drawn2Art 704-997-6068 Cornelius,

Southern Picnic Productions, LLC (704)780-8715 Cornelius

The Amazing Mr Archer (704)214-8144 Mooresville

Young Dragonslayers (585) 355-6035 Davidson

BEAUTY SALONS AND SERVICES - PERSONAL SERVICES & CARE -SPA

SAVVY Salon & Day Spa (704)895-0404 Cornelius

sugaringLA (202) 425-8162 Huntersville

Lifted Aesthetics (980) 867-0020 Davidson

CARE MedSpa 7043139419 Cornelius

Danisday (407) 283-8474 Mooresville

Lumos Salon and Spa (704)237-4278 Cornelius

Magnolia Skin Therapy (980) 250-5564 Cornelius

Skin Social Aesthetic Boutique (980) 925-5505 Davidson

Skinfinity & Beyond (704)709-3446 Davidson

Skyn Elegant Aesthetics (980) 306-7596 Huntersville

Victorious Skincare 980-998-7546 Davidson

Waxing The City (704)992-8288 Huntersville

Driftwood Yoga, Spa & Boutique (704)823-6450 Denver

CHILD ACTIVITIESCHILD CARE

Bella Ballerina Highland Creek (513) 600-6535 Huntersville

Oliver’s Nannies of North Charlotte (704)840-9599 Huntersville

La Petite Academy (704)875-0399 Huntersville

Twinkle Toes Nanny Agency North Charlotte (704)821-4492 Mooresville

CHILD CARE, EDUCATIONGOVERNMENT, EDUCATION & INDIVIDUALS

Club Z! In-Home and Online Tutoring of Lake Norman 704-817-4520 Davidson

Primrose School of Cornelius (704)895-3300 Cornelius

Huntington Learning CenterHuntersville (704)896-3931 Huntersville

EMBROIDERY AND MONOGRAMMINGPROMOTIONAL ITEMS

Lake Norman Embroidery & Screen Printing (704)892-8450 Cornelius

Lakeside Custom Tee’s & Embroidery (704)274-3730 Cornelius

FARMERS MARKETRETAIL, RETAIL STORE - RETAIL, ICE CREAMRESTAURANTS

Farmhouse (Spring Water Farms) (704)875-0061

Huntersville

FITNESS AND TRAINING - SPORTS & RECREATION

Everest Gymnastics (704)948-1449

Cornelius

Hardcore Serious Fitness (704)301-5932

Huntersville

Huntersville Family Fitness & Aquatics (704)766-2222

Huntersville

In Motion Fitness, Inc. (704)895-8000

Cornelius

iShine Yoga & Wellness (513) 300.3478

Huntersville

The Carolina Factory 704-997-8640

Cornelius

FITNESS AND TRAINING - SPORTS & RECREATION, MEETING VENUE - EVENT VENUE, CHILD DEVELOPMENTCHILD CARE

Lake Norman Family YMCA (704)716-4411

Cornelius

Floor Coverings - Retail

Little Wood Flooring LLC (704)896-6122

Cornelius

FLORISTS - RETAIL

All Things Possible Custom Creations LLC 516-250-8290

Mooresville

Artistry Florals, Inc. (704)892-9010

Cornelius

Peony and Gold (704)793-8193

Cornelius

FLORISTS - RETAIL, FLOWER SHOP - RETAIL

The Petal Thing (704)975-2774

Cornelius

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Paper Skyscraper (704)997-6164

DAVIDSON

Peterbrooke Chocolatier (980) 435-5600

Mooresville

Kilwin’s Chocolate, Fudge, Ice Cream (704)237-4869

Concord

Inspired at Lake Norman (704)997-5500

Cornelius

Lake Norman Olive and Vine (980) 721-9850

Denver

GIFTS AND SPECIALTY ITEMS - RETAIL, FARMERS MARKETRETAIL

Sun Raised Foods (844) 417-4337

Cornelius

HOTELS / MOTELSLODGING AND TRAVEL

Comfort Inn & Suites (704)896-7622

Cornelius

Comfort Suites, Lake Norman Huntersville (704)875-6220 Huntersville

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Lake Norman (704)895-6565

Huntersville

Davidson Village Inn (704)892-8044

Davidson

Four Points Sheraton at Charlotte/Lake Norman (704)766-2500 Huntersville

Garner by IHG (704)896-0660 Cornelius

Hampton Inn & Suites (704)947-5510 Huntersville

Hilton Garden Inn, Charlotte, Mooresville (704)663-6468 Mooresville

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Charlotte Mooresville (704)659-8600 Mooresville

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Cookie Dough Bliss & Creamery (803) 830-2018 Moorseville

Individual Bonnie Uebele

JEWELRY - RETAIL

Ascot Diamonds (704)970-0377 Davidson

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Serenity Junk Removal (704)665-0993 Charlotte

Scrappy’s Junk World (704)995-9292 Huntersville

MASSAGE - HEALTH CARE

Elements Massage Cornelius 7049975172

Cornelius

Massage Heights, Jetton Village (704)827-5000

Cornelius

by Lauren Platts

There are things we mean to say. And then there are the things we actually say. They’re not always the same.

Somewhere between intention and delivery, we hesitate. We edit. We tell ourselves it’s not the right time, that it might come out wrong, or that maybe it doesn’t matter as much as we think it does. So we wait.

We wait to say thank you. We wait to say I’m sorry. We wait to say I miss you. We wait to say I’m proud of you. We wait to say I love you.

And sometimes… we wait too long.

I don’t think most of us hold back because we don’t care. It’s usually the opposite. We care so much that we’re afraid of getting it wrong—afraid of being misunderstood, afraid of being vulnerable in a way that can’t be taken back. So instead, we soften it. Or we joke. Or we convince ourselves it can wait.

But the things we leave unsaid don’t just disappear. They stay with us. They linger in quiet moments—on long drives, in the middle of the night, in conversations that feel incomplete. They show up later, when we wish we had been a little braver, a little more honest, a little less careful.

I’ve been thinking about that lately—about how much of life is shaped by the conversations we have… and the ones we don’t. Because the truth is, the right words don’t have to be perfect. They just have to be real.

A simple “I appreciate you” can stay with someone longer than you realize.

A genuine “I’m sorry” can repair more than we think.

A quiet “I’ve been thinking about you” can show up exactly when someone needs it most.

These aren’t grand gestures. They’re small, human moments. But they matter.

More than we give them credit for.

Much to my son’s embarrassment—especially in this phase where just about everything I say is mortifying—I rarely pass up an opportunity to pay someone a compliment or express gratitude. I’d rather people think I’m a little weird than keep something kind to myself.

The world can be cold and cruel enough.

You never really know what being genuine with someone can do. How many times has your day—or your mood—been transformed by one small word or a simple, kind gesture? Mine has. Even if it’s something small, like someone complimenting my hair or the shoes I was wearing. We all want to feel seen and appreciated.

Words have weight. They can hurt, yes—but they can also heal. And if we have the chance to be part of that, why wouldn’t we choose it?

And maybe this is worth remembering too—the person you need to say it to may need to hear it just as much as you need to say it. Whether it’s an apology, an explanation, a compliment, or just saying something that matters to you, err on the side of genuine connection and kindness—you’ll never regret it.

There’s a tendency to believe we’ll have time later—that we’ll circle back, bring it up another day, find a better moment. And sometimes we do.

But sometimes we don’t.

Life moves quickly. People change. Circumstances shift. And the window to say what we meant to say doesn’t always stay open as long as we think it will.

So maybe the goal isn’t to say everything perfectly. Maybe it’s just to say it while we still can.

To send the text.

To make the call.

To speak up, even if our voice shakes a little.

To say the thing.

Because more often than not, those are the words that matter most—the ones that connect us, that stay with us, and that remind us we showed up when it counted.

And in the end, that’s what we carry with us. Not the perfectly worded conversations, but the honest ones.

But those are just my thoughts.

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

Kathryn Curtis, AuD

140 Gateway Blvd. Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-664-9638

Cardiology

PHC Cardiovascular Specialists

Jips Zachariah, MD

PHC Heart & Vascular

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

Monica Lordi, 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

PHC - Bellingham Family Medicine

Daniel Bellingham, MD

Dwight Bellingham, MD

Stephanie Taylor, PA-C

Kelsey McLelland, PA-C

Haley Gosnell, PA-C

118 Kirkman Court, Troutman, NC 28166 705 Gaither Road, Statesville, NC 28677

704-871-1155

Gastroenterology

PHC – Gastroenterology

Brandon Marion, MD

Nick Jones, FNP 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

170 Medical Park Rd., Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28115 • 704-663-5056

PHC – Internal Medicine & Weight Management

Manish G. Patel, MD

Julie Abney, PA

Andrea Brock, PA-C

Brittania Corbitt, NP-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

Brooke Gostomski, PA-C

Kristin C. Brown, PA-C

Megan I. Flott, 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

Benjamin Hinkel, MD

Alyssa Clay, DNP, FNP-C

Brooke Mauney, WHNP-BC

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

Oncology

Southern Oncology Specialists

William Mitchell, MD

Poras Patel, MD

46 Medical Park Rd, Suite 212

Mooresville, NC 28117 • 704-659-7850

Orthopaedic Surgery

PHC – Piedmont Bone & Joint

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

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

EXCLUSIVELY AT