Public voting has begun for the 2025 Chrony Awards for local excellence
By James Kmosko
The annual awards honor one business and one non-profit in the Chronicle area (the intersection of NC-16 and NC-150, Killian Crossroads). To be eligible for either category, the business or non-profit must have provided exceptional service and/or have positively impacted the community. Readers submitted nominations between November 1st and November 20th.
To vote, visit the “Awards” tab on the Chronicle Chronicle website, or click this link. Voting will remain open until December 13th. A brief profile of each of the nominees can be found below.
NON-PROFITS
L.O.V. Thrift Store
L.O.V. (Love Our Veterans) Thrift Store is a non-profit charity that operates in the heart of Chronicle. Founded by married duo Gini Popko and Marine Corps veteran Kevin Popko, the thrift store raises funds through community donations and operates with a volunteer staff. All profits go to assisting local veterans in need with housing, transportation, food, and other expenses. At time of publishing, L.O.V. has provided assistance to 113 veterans in their 3 years of business.
“[They are] consistently dedicated to helping veterans in need while also providing the community [with] great items that are reduced price, and keeping things out of landfills,” one nominator wrote.” It’s a trifecta of awesomeness. The owners are committed, friendly, and focused [on] providing great outreach to the community.”
East Lincoln Christian Ministries
East Lincoln Christian Ministries (ELCM) is a non-profit Christian charity that has served the west side of Lake Norman since 1983. Based near the Rock Springs Campground in Denver, the charity provides food and other assistance to those in need. Proceeds are earned primarily through the sale of clothing and furniture at their thrift locations, as well as donations from local individuals and churches.
“I love that they give so much back to the community,” wrote one volunteer. “I personally recommend coming out and checking out the thrift store. They have everything you could think of.”
BUSINESSES
Butcher Boy Cafe
Butcher Boy Cafe is a Catawba County staple, located on NC-150 across from Mt. Pleasant Road. Founded in 1991 by Mike Hill, a well-known local butcher, the cafe serves southern cuisine “just like mama’s and grandma’s cooking.” Locals from Chronicle, Sherrills Ford, Terrell, and Denver come to Butcher Boy for its family atmosphere and low prices.
“I lived in Sherrills Ford and moved to Mooresville/Davidson area,” one reviewer wrote. “I will drive the 30 minutes to come eat their delicious breakfast bar on the weekends. Awesome, welcoming staff and great quality and priced food!”
Lineberger’s Cattle Company
Lineberger’s Cattle Company is a steakhouse and seafood restaurant located in Chronicle near the Lake Norman Marina. Known for its rustic, saloon-style decor and high-quality food, Lineberger’s has drawn customers from across the Lake Norman area for over 53 years. Generations of locals call this restaurant their favorite.
“Best restaurant in the area,” one nominator wrote. “Good food, great family atmosphere.”
The Untouchables
The Untouchables is a pizzeria located in the heart of Chronicle. Founded in 1983, the restaurant is one of the few pizza buffets in the area and a staple of the local community. The pizzeria supports local schools, optimist clubs, and other organizations on “spirit nights” by donating a portion of their proceeds.
“They are a cornerstone of our little area,” one nominator wrote. “and Hope, [an Untouchables employee], is a pillar in our community.”
Pit Stop Auto Service
Pit Stop Auto Service is an auto mechanic located in the heart of Chronicle, next to the Food Lion. Pit Stop has earned a reputation of honesty and dependability in their decades of service to the community. The CEO of Pit Stop retired this year after 24 years of leading the business. His replacement, Tracy Price, is committed to maintaining the same quality of service that Chronicle residents have come to depend on.
“They have always went above and beyond to make sure my vehicle is taken care of no matter what,” one nominator wrote.
Jimador Mexican Grill
Jimador Mexican Grill, located on NC-16 Business in Chronicle, is known for having a wide variety of Mexican food at low prices. Though the restaurant has only been in business for a few years, it has earned a name for itself as the only Mexican restaurant in Chronicle, and one of the few restaurants in the area that does not serve fast food.
“The atmosphere here is always great,” one reviewer wrote. “Service is prompt and friendly. Food is always delicious and consistent with large portions.”
Wild Gym
Wild Gym is a local fitness center located in the heart of Chronicle, next to L.O.V. Thrift Store. Owned and operated by Michelle Jones, an ISSA certified personal trainer and professionally certified bodybuilder, the gym specializes in providing a location, equipment, and coaching for those interested in powerlifting and bodybuilding activities.
“The Wild Gym is absolutely amazing,” one reviewer wrote. “I have been working with Michelle and her guidance has helped tremendously. They truly take the time to see that you excel unlike some of the other big gyms in the area.”
Causby Karate Academy
Causby Karate Academy, located on NC-16 Business in Denver, is a martial arts studio that has served the Lake Norman community since 2008. Led by Chief Instructor Master Stephanie Causby, the studio offers lessons for all ages in several martial art styles including Hapkido, Tang Soo Do, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
“My daughter wanted to try something new and different for her birthday,” a nominator wrote. “So we bought her lessons at Causby’s. She enjoyed it immensely and learned some valuable self defense moves. Also the teachers are friendly and nice.”
Wicked Stitches and Sew Much More
Wicked Stitches and Sew Much More is a Denver-based store that specializes in the sale of yarns, fabrics, and other accessories related to the “fiber arts.” The business also offers knitting and crocheting classes in both private and group settings.
“The woman who bought this store last year has done an amazing job transforming it,” said one nominator. “This place treats people like family. There is a family in Denver who is going through cancer. The owner has jumped in and helped organize a food train, donations, rides to the hospital. It is important for businesses to care about their community and customers. This is one of those places.”