Introducing "Meet Your Neighbor," a new LKN Insider feature where we'll spend a few minutes getting to know the people and businesses that make our community special.

If you've ever worried about leaving your pet while you're out of town, you're not alone. That's exactly the problem Luca Handsman set out to solve.

Luca is the owner of Handsman Pet Company, and his mission is simple: make life easier for pet owners while giving their pets the best care possible. Whether it's daily walks, overnight stays, transportation to the groomer or daycare, or even helping dogs be part of a wedding, his team is there to help.

When I asked what inspired him to start the business, his answer wasn't about building a company.

It started with a neighbor.

A single mother was trying to balance work, raising her daughter, caring for her own mother, and looking after an anxious dog. Luca began helping by walking the dog, and he saw firsthand how something that seemed small made a huge difference for the entire family.

"That's when I realized I could do this for more people," he said.

Before we wrapped up, I asked Luca for one piece of advice every Lake Norman pet owner should remember this summer.

If the pavement is too hot for your bare feet, it's too hot for your dog's paws.

Simple advice, but an easy thing to forget during these hot Carolina afternoons.

Outside of work, you'll probably find Luca at the gym, by the pool, or trying to improve his golf game, which he picked up about a year and a half ago.

I also asked him to recommend a local business that deserves a little extra attention. His pick was Masala Mastee in Davidson. If you enjoy Indian food and haven't been, he says it's worth a visit.

You can learn more about Handsman Pet Company at HandsmanPetCo.com.

The Gist: Ricky Singh, executive director of My Brother’s Keeper Charlotte-Mecklenburg, recently launched School’s Out CLT, a crowdsourced online calendar featuring free local activities for kids on teacher workdays and half-days. The interactive site covers eight teacher workdays and four half-days during the 2026–27 school year, starting Sept. 21.

Why It Matters: Teacher workdays have a way of sneaking up on busy families. School’s Out CLT could make those days easier to plan while giving kids more safe, fun places to connect when school is closed. Organizers are also inviting local businesses, nonprofits and neighbors to help with activity spaces, supplies or transportation support.

The Gist: Paws Life Dog Resort & Spa is now open in Cornelius under owner Kayla Shaw, who worked at the same location for years when it was PURRfect Paws. The business offers grooming, daycare and overnight boarding, with half days starting at $22, full days at $36 and boarding from $45 to $55 depending on a dog’s size. Multi-pet discounts are also available.

Why It Matters: As summer winds down, long workdays and weekend trips bring back the familiar question of who will watch the dog. Shaw brings more than 25 years of experience, while her Shih Tzu, Lulu, helps welcome customers at the front door.

Neighbors 828 Artisan Kitchen began around the Rotella family’s dinner table, where meals with friends sparked the idea for a restaurant built around food and community. Today, the family-owned spot serves hand-tossed artisan pizzas, house-made sauces and meatballs, pasta, burgers and plenty of desserts.

Try the Loaded Baked Potato Pie, Asiago Chicken or the Neighbors Burger with white cheddar, garlic aioli and Parmesan-herb fries. Save room for cannoli cake, cheesecake or one of the giant chocolate chip cookies!

Davidson Provision Company brings a little bit of everything to South Main Street, blending an outdoor outfitter with the charm of a modern general store. The team also creates custom trucker hats packed with Davidson and Lake Norman pride.

There’s plenty to browse, from vintage-inspired displays and candles to Birkenstocks, OluKai sandals and gear for dogs and kids. Pair a relaxed Saturday stop with coffee from Summit just down the street, and you’ve got an easy Davidson morning.

🎤 Rock the Park: Yacht Rock Radio | Liberty Park | Mooresville | 8/7 | More
Smooth soft-rock classics, local food trucks, and easygoing park vibes.

🎬 Movies in the Park: Super Mario Galaxy | Veterans Park | Huntersville | 8/7 | More
Free cinema under the stars with pre-show games. Bring chairs and snacks.

🛍️ Back to School Release | Style Encore | Mooresville | until 8/7 | More
Thousands of brand-name apparel, teacher essentials, and discounted student styles.

🎶 Concerts on the Green: Sail On | Village Green | Davidson | 8/8 | More
Beach Boys tribute on the Green. The best way to say goodbye to summer.

🎒 Back to School Bash 2026 | Northern Regional Recreation Center | Cornelius | 8/8 | More
Inflatables, balloon artists, face painting, and interactive games.

🐶 Ghost Mode 1-Year Anniversary & Otis Fest | Ghostface Brewing | Mooresville | 8/8 | More
Bounce house fun, arcade games, and dog rescue anniversary celebrations.

⚓ Yacht Rock Pool Party | Arden at Huntersville | Huntersville | 8/6 | More
Smooth nautical hits, poolside snacks, cold drinks, and easygoing socializing.

🎶 Block Party feat. HC Oakes | Cain Center for the Arts | Cornelius | 8/8 | More
Live acoustic music on the outdoor patio with a chill community vibe.

☕ Café Borikén at the Clubhouse | Centennial Clubhouse | Huntersville | 8/8 | More
Authentic Puerto Rican specialty coffees, fruit smoothies, matcha, and relaxation.

🧘‍♀️ Free Community Yoga | Fred & June's Books | Mooresville | 8/10 | More
Gentle stretching, peaceful mind-body wellness, and literary surroundings.

🍷 Wine Down Wednesday | South Main Street | Davidson | 8/12 | More
Evening sipping, flower bar browsing, light bites, and local boutique shopping.

🏍️ Hotshots Mooresville Bike Night | Hotshots Sports Bar and Grill | Mooresville | 8/12 | More
Midweek gathering with cold drafts, hearty food, and open-air summer energy.

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