On a recent trip, I flew out of Charlotte/Douglas airport and headed north for a week of cool, Yankee weather. As the plane climbed into the sky, I was treated to a stunning view of Lake Norman, its spidery arms spreading out in all directions, with Interstate 77 snaking through the middle. Looking out the ground eased by, and I was struck by the magnitude and vitality of the scene below me.

Even from such a distance, the area seemed to hum with activity. It was a bright Saturday morning, and boats crowded the lake, heading in every direction, trailing little white wakes behind. Traffic moved steadily along the interstate, and countless homes dotted the shoreline in neat patterns, each with a story to tell as their families headed out for weekend activities, hosted friends and neighbors for cookouts or pursued hobbies and interests.

The view from that airplane captured the essence of Lake Norman for me. It’s a community of action, filled with newcomers who have moved here from every part of the country and abroad – and still a few folks who are natives – to pursue their dreams. It’s full of people with special skills and interests, and it’s constantly on the move, full of cars, boats, construction, ambition and energy. Always energy.

I, too, am fairly new to the area, though I grew up in the eastern part of the state, and am thrilled to take the reins as editor of Lake Norman Magazine. I hope to continue its long tradition of celebrating the community, reflecting the vibrance of its people and lifestyles and providing a place where lake residents can come together to see the best that life here has to offer.

I have big shoes to fill. Carol-Faye Ashcraft, who retired last month, brought LNM to new heights and left a legacy of excellent journalism and careful attention to detail. I thank her for her help in adjusting to my new role and for the strong example she leaves behind.

This month, you’ll find some features that we hope will help fulfill our mission. Mike Savicki takes a look at the remarkable boats and people who make the 11th Annual Charlotte Antique & Classic Boat Show such a special event. And Barbara Mayer previews the Iredell County Fair, a step back in time that recalls the rich heritage of the area.

In addition, you’ll learn about North Carolina’s burgeoning wine industry, and we’ll take a look at the excellent dining and entertainment in the area. We’ve also recently launched our Verve section, a collection of fast and fun facts and stories, to spice things up a bit. We also have a special section devoted to making your home life richer and fuller.

I hope to meet as many of the magazine’s readers as I can in the coming months and years. I plan to get out of the office as much as possible and participate in this community, and I am always on the lookout for an interesting story. So if you have any comments or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to e-mail or call. You’ll find the address and phone number elsewhere on this page. Thanks for picking up the magazine and for supporting us throughout the years. I hope we’ll continue to provide the kind of articles and photos you enjoy.