South Charlotte Weekly Dec. 20, 2019

Next week: See who made our 100 Biggest Newsmakers

Friday, Dec. 20, 2019 • Vol. 19 • No. 51

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This special edition of the South Charlotte Weekly features profiles of finalists for Charlotte Media Group's 2019 Small Business Person of the Year. Finalists were selected from a pool of community nominations. We will recognize these business owners and announce the winner at a special event Jan. 16 at the Hampton Inn and Suites - SouthPark at Phillips Place. Tickets for the event are available at www.cmgweekly.com/store.

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CAROLINAS NATURAL HEALTH CENTER

Dr. Michael Smith

by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Many can remember unpleasant visits to their doctor, filled with explanations they did not understand and prescriptions Smith that may not have led to long-lasting results. At Carolinas Natural Health Center, Dr. Michael Smith and his team aim to create a holistic health experience.

Dr. Smith is trained as a naturopathic doctor. While his medical training is the same as that of a family medicine practitioner, he does not practice medicine. Instead, he and his team approach illness in a different way.

“A medical doctor is trained to look at you through a lens of disease,” Dr. Smith said. “They want to see what disease you have and what treatment or drug you need.

[Naturopathic doctors] are trained to look at you through a lens of health. We look at what’s wrong, what’s the root cause and how to make the right changes to resolve that.”

The team at Carolinas Natural Health Center aims to help patients regain their health instead of covering up symptoms with prescribed medication. Dr. Smith said medical treatment and prescriptions are necessary, but health needs to be approached holistically.

“We have a system that focuses on continuing to manage your sickness,” Dr. Smith said. “And that’s never going to get you well.

You’re never going to experience health in that system. There’s a time and place for those pills, but the truth is, there’s no drug in the world that improves health.”

Dr. Smith’s passion for wellness began when he was growing up as an athlete. Dr. Smith said he experienced the effects of nutrition on his performance and felt fascinated by the difference it made in his personal health journey.

Dr. Smith studied naturopathic health in Arizona, which eventually brought him to Charlotte, where he saw a need for naturopathic doctors. He opened his practice in Matthews 15 years ago.

“Many people had never heard of us, but many had been looking for us,” Dr. Smith said. “They just didn’t know what they were looking for or what to call it. They wanted health, but didn’t know what kind of practitioner to go to try and get that.”

At his practice, Dr. Smith and his team want to empower their patients to make healthy changes in their lives that will optimize their health on a long-term basis.

Since opening, Dr. Smith said his practice has helped thousands regain their health and even sometimes reverse their diseases. He said his team also has provided patients with a better understanding of how to take care of themselves.

While most doctor appointments have patients in and out the door with a physician only seeing them for a short time, Dr. Smith said he takes the time to speak to each of his patients and hear their concerns. This way, he can create a personalized plan to help them get to a better state of health.

Dr. Smith provides patients with free educational tools, from seminars to online presentations, that teach them about health from a holistic perspective. He then sits down with patients to get a complete wellness evaluation, finding out what is wrong, where they are right now and where they want to go. From there, he helps them understand how to achieve their goals.

By creating a blueprint, Dr. Smith explains what it will take and how to get there instead of leaving patients to figure it out on their own. He identifies the root cause of their health problems and creates a solid foundation for patients to build upon so they can optimize their wellness long-term and prevent future diseases.

Above: As a naturopathic doctor, Dr. Michael Smith creates personalized plans for his clients on their journey to health, all without prescribed medication. Photo courtesy of Carolinas Natural Health

“People want health and they’re trying certain things, and sometimes they see some improvements, but they’re not sustainable because they haven’t really created the solid foundation that they need to be able to maintain that state of optimal wellness in our body,” Dr. Smith said.

Dr. Smith gives them the tools for sustainable results in a five pillar comprehensive plan that consists of detoxing, nutrition, fitness, hormones and mentorship. Each plays a key part in optimal health, according to Dr. Smith.

The aspect that most sets Dr. Smith and his team apart is the mentorship. Dr. Smith said he works with clients step by step, day by day to ensure they can be successful in their health journey. He said the most common mistake is tackling too much at once. To help patients, he takes things very slowly so they can build up to their goals.

“This is not just about helping somebody for a few months,” Dr.

Smith said. “I want to help someone be on the right path for the rest of their life … We really care and we want to make certain that we understand what their real struggles and obstacles are. We want to make sure that they have the support that’s necessary to be successful.”

He has seen many clients achieve success through his practice. Dr. Smith said one of his 81-yearold patients said there were three significant milestones in her life: meeting her husband, landing a sales job in a male-dominated industry and meeting Dr. Smith and his team. Dr. Smith said he helped her regain her energy and love for life.

“A lot of times, what we see is people limiting themselves because of their health symptoms,” Dr. Smith said. “People aren’t living out their true purpose because they don’t have the health to do so…

And they continue to see their doctor in the healthcare system and

there’s a time and place for that, but what they just get is another patch or Band-Aid or prescription that is not fixing the problem. And that’s what frustrates me.”

Beyond directly impacting his patients, Dr. Smith has seen the impact his work has had on the people in his patients’ lives.

Dr. Smith said he and his team separate themselves and have become successful because of their passion for their work and the people they work with.

“Our practice is that we care about the people we work with,” Dr. Smith said. “We put our heart and our soul into this. We see the difference we make in peoples’ lives.”

Want to learn more?

Carolinas Natural Health Center is located at 1114 Sam Newell Road, Suite A, Matthews. Call 704-708-4404 or visit www.caro linasnaturalhealth.com for details.

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Page 2A • South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019

BRUSH'D SALON

Nikki Bourgeault

by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

WAXHAW – As a teenager, Nikki Bourgeault could not afford a flat iron to straighten her hair, so she and her cousin used a normal iron when they would do makeovers on each other.

Years later, Nikki has made a name for herself in the beauty industry, working with fashion designers and NFL cheerleaders and opening Brush’d Salon in south Charlotte this September.

Though she loved everything beauty-related, owning a salon was not Nikki’s original dream as a teenager. In high school, she thought she would go to pharmacy school, but after spending time working at a pharmacy, she quickly realized it was not her career path.

She went back to what she had always been passionate about – beauty.

While the beauty industry was not originally Nikki’s end goal, owning a business was. She dreamed of owning a business after being inspired by her father, who always instilled a strong work ethic.

“If you chase a dream long enough, it will happen,” Nikki said.

She has been chasing this dream since she finished studying. She joined the Aveda Institute in Uptown Charlotte as an educator, starting the institute’s first evening program which allowed students to work full-time jobs during the day and attend classes at night.

She also joined Aveda’s corporate team, which allowed her to work as a makeup artist for several fashion shows throughout New York Fashion Week. She worked as a lead makeup artist on shows for brands including Project Runway, Nautica and Sherry Hill.

“It’s controlled chaos,” Nikki said as she remembered her time at Fashion Week. “It’s very fast-paced and high-energy. It’s a lot of fun.

It’s a lot of hard work, and it’s not all glitz and glam like people would

think. There were many times when I had three shows in one day, so I’m literally running across the city from show to show. By the end of the day, you are physically and mentally exhausted.”

Nikki supervised 12 makeup artists to work on more than 40 models during her first fashion show as a lead makeup artist. She said the process leading up to the show included working with the designer to put together a look, creating a face map for the look and teaching other artists how to recreate it.

When she worked at a salon, she was the lead makeup artist for an NFL cheerleading team, where she did the cheerleaders’ gameday makeup and taught them off the field looks.

She then set out on her own in a salon studio, building up clientele and creating her own brand before deciding to expand Brush’d into the Reafield shopping center. Nikki fell in love with the space as soon as she saw it, but the timing was not right on her first attempt to secure it. After months of touring other potential spaces, she saw her dream location was still available.

Within a few hours of calling her broker, this time, it was hers.

“I loved the location, even down to the color of the bricks on the building,” Nikki said. “Even though we didn’t get the space the first time, I just knew. I just knew that that was the spot and it was meant to be. I feel like God was trying to teach me to be patient.”

Making the transition from working for an employer and independently to managing a team of stylists at Brush’d has been an “eye-opener” for Nikki. She said now, it is not just about her. She feels responsible for her employees and their families.

It has been a rewarding experience for her.

“I feel like when they succeed, I succeed,” Nikki said. “I love going in the salon and working side by side with my team. They inspire me as much as I hope I inspire

them. The feeling in there is just really sweet. We all support each other and it’s a fun environment.”

She also invests in the stylists, making sure they are educated on the latest hair and beauty techniques. As a stylist and an owner, Nikki knows education is critical to delivering excellence so she closes on Mondays to hold regular classes for the staff.

Brush’d also hosts Kevin Murphy color classes and has Jane Iredale come in to teach makeup lessons.

“Our industry is one where you never stop learning,” Nikki said.

In addition to looking out for her employees, Nikki said she has a heart for serving the community and always looks for ways to give back, especially to causes like Cystic Fibrosis.

Her advice to women in business and women hoping to start businesses is to get involved in the community, network and ask many questions.

She also advised women to reach out to people they see as successful.

“I’m not afraid to reach out to the people I see as successful and ask them questions,” Nikki said. “If you see someone else in business and killing it and doing an amaz-

Top: Brush’d Salon recently opened in Waxhaw and features a clean, modern and bright look inside. Photo courtesy of Brush’d Salon Above: Earlier this year, Nikki Bourgeault, owner of Brush’d Salon, won two awards in South Charlotte Weekly's Best of the Weekly contest: Best Stylist and Best Hair Salon. Charisma Howard/A Brew & You

ing job, just ask them for advice.”

Nikki hopes to open more Brush’d locations in the future to serve even more of the community. She is starting an apprenticeship program, which will allow recent hair school graduates to train at Brush’d, assist stylists and eventually work as a stylist at the salon.

“Nikki successfully runs Brush’d Salon where she pours herself

into her clients and her team and has built a culture of excellence through education and service,” Nikki’s husband wrote in his nomination.

Want to go?

Brush'd Salon is located at 9925 Rea Road, Suite 102, Waxhaw.

Call 980-339-7230 or visit www. brushdsalon.com for details.

KEY TO THE CAROLINAS

Kimberly Budd & Holly Danneker

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

INDIAN TRAIL – Kimberly Budd and Holly Danneker have known each other for more than 20 years, dating back to their days as sorority sisters at Western Carolina University.

Though they kept tabs on each other’s families and lives via social media, a chance encounter drew them closer together. Coincidentally, they walked into the same real estate school on the same day.

Not only did they finish up their training together, but they also became licensed at the same time and affiliated with the same firm – Keller Williams. They realized both would benefit if they pooled their resources together and formed a team.

They launched Key to the Carolinas in 2018. The duo is licensed in both of the Carolinas, but they focus much of their efforts on the south Charlotte area. They also became certified in staging homes.

Prior to real estate, Danneker’s professional experience was in project and program management in information technology, while Budd’s career has been centered on inside sales and marketing.

Budd said the blending of technology and marketing gives them an edge.

‘While we have different strengths that contribute to our team’s combined success, we both strive to provide our clients with an exceptional and quality experience,” Danneker said. “Staying involved in the process from start to finish contributes to our success of exceeding our client’s expectations.”

Both are involved in area schools and have volunteered with organizations like Girls on the Run, the Humane Society, Cystic Fibrosis Association, Samaritan’s Purse and the Union County Community Shelter.

They were encouraged to learn that they placed in the top 20% of their market center.

“We both just really wanted to immerse ourselves in the training, which is one reason we ended up at Keller Williams and saw significant success in our first two years,” Budd said. “We took the time to go above and beyond in our training.”

Want to learn more?

Visit www.keytothecarolinas.com or call 980-553-1530 for details about Key to the Carolinas.

Kimberly Budd and Holly Danneker are not just business partners in real estate at Key to the Carolinas. They are also good friends and former classmates at Western Carolina University. Photo courtesy of Key to the Carolinas

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South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019 • Page 3A

SAGE ORGANIZING

BACKYARD BIRDS

Candi Ruppert, CPO

by Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – It took Candi Ruppert, CPO, a long time to realize her true passion was making other people’s lives more organized, but once she did, she never looked back.

Ruppert Ruppert, who lives in the Providence Plantation neighborhood of south Charlotte with her husband, CJ, and daughter, Vivian, spent 15 years working as a corporate field trainer for Barnes and Noble.

She loved her job but struggled to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

“I was dropping my daughter at daycare when it was dark and picking her up when it was dark, and that’s when I knew I needed to quit my job and do something else,” she said.

After leaving Barnes and Noble, Ruppert began to tap into her physical and logistical organization skills as an impromptu wedding coordinator. She also ran the neighborhood swim team and took on small home organization jobs, mostly in the kitchen.

“I can make your pantry look like Martha Stewart lives there in a heartbeat,” she said.

It wasn’t until a friend reached out with her biggest job yet that everything changed.

Ruppert said her friend’s father had recently passed away and his house needed to be cleared out and handed over to a Realtor by the end of the week. She helped her go through nearly every item in the house, and lined up painters, wildlife and pest removal and bulk pickup. She also hired packing and shipping, landscaping, professional cleaning and dumpster companies and got in touch with local charities to take donated items.

“I went home tired because it’s a hard job and I was dirty and I was happy every day,” Ruppert said. “That’s when I knew this is what I wanted to do.”

Not long after that, Ruppert turned her passion into her profession and started Sage Organizing. She travels around Mecklenburg County, Union County and as far as Gastonia, Lake Norman and Rock Hill, S.C., to tackle jobs both big and small.

About 30% of her business is estate clearing after someone passes away. Ruppert said it can be a difficult process for a grieving family, which is why it’s good to have a neutral party, like a professional organizer, there to help.

“Not everything goes in the dumpster, like some cleaning companies just throw everything away,” she said. “I’m going through and

Laurie Horne

touching every item and seeing where that item can serve someone else in the community.”

Ruppert donates unwanted items to local animal shelters, schools and food pantries.

She also partners with Beds for Kids, Matthews Help Center, Crisis Assistance Ministry and ZABS Place in Matthews. She said doing so reduces the environmental impact and helps the community, with makes her clients happy because their things are going to good use, and they’re getting itemized tax deductions for the donations, too.

Clients who are downsizing make up another 30% of Ruppert’s business. She said these jobs are a little more difficult because clients know what they paid for certain items and have memories attached to those items, so it’s hard for them to see them go out the door.

As a Certified Professional Organizer, she’s learned about mental health, therapy, hoarding disorders, the legal side and completed many client hours and submitted writing samples.

She’s also a member of the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals, as well as Faithful Organizers, which is a community of Christian professional organizers. She said her strong work ethic, commitment to furthering her education – not many organizers are CPO-certified – and compassion and understanding set her apart.

“I always try to treat people like my family,” Ruppert said. “I take the time to really get to know people and figure out what things mean to them.”

The remainder of Ruppert’s business involves residential organization, like setting up nurseries, cleaning out garages, helping people pack and unpack or reorganizing kitchens.

When tackling a kitchen, Ruppert said she thinks logistically and rationally where everything should go and sets it up as efficiently as possible. She considers where the appliances are, the client’s height, whether they are left-handed or right-handed, if they drink coffee and if they cook at home a lot.

“Some clients want me to come in and make their house look like something on Pinterest and I can do that with one hand tied behind my back, but I also make sure that it makes sense,” Ruppert said. “There’s no sense in making something look pretty like it’s on Pinterest and you still can’t find your stuff.”

Want to know more?

Visit www.sageorganizingco.com, read Ruppert’s blog “Sage Advice,” and follow her on Pinterest (Sage Organizing C); Instagram (@sageorganizingco); and Facebook.

by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – If Laurie Horne doesn’t know your name yet, she likely will by the time you leave her quaint store.

Of the six people that walked into Backyard Birds on a recent Monday, five of them were immediately greeted by first name by Horne, the store’s owner.

Some were even sniffed by Buddy, the 6-year-old, four-legged customer care specialist as they made their way through the store.

The small-store feel and mascot dog aren’t just for show, it’s a successful strategy outlining how Horne conducts business every day.

But it’s easy, she says, because of her passion for birds and wildlife. Before she bought the business, Horne loved to feed the birds and blend with the wildlife.

“I’ve been feeding the birds forever,” she said. “I grew up in Alaska, so nature was a big thing. As soon as I got a house or any kind of yard I started feeding the birds, but also getting to see how many birds I can see in a lifetime is of huge interest to me. Also, it’s kind of cool coexisting with the squirrels, raccoons and opossums. We all have to blend together.”

At first, Horne was just a customer when Roger Ford, who opened the business in 1996, sold the business to his children, Jason Ford and Cari Mull.

Later, the kids sold the business to Horne, but the three now work together in harmony.

Backyard Birds is packed on the inside with bird feeders, bird seeds of all types, garden flags, gnomes, Christmas ornaments and an array of knickknacks sure to make any casual shopper happy.

For the diehards, Horne can get any resource available, but much of that stuff is already on the shelves.

Horne said bird feeding and bird watching has become a phenomenon, so there are many people there for bird-feeding products.

“Bird feeding is becoming very popular,” she said. “It’s like No. 2 behind gardening, so it’s popular and people love to do it. I think it’s great because people get to touch nature in some way with all the riffraff of everything else going on.”

Horne said there is something about the retail store that gives her customers a better experience.

“I had somebody tell me the other day, ‘I love coming here because I can find things

Laurie Horne began coming to Backyard Birds as a customer, but now owns the store. Horne knows many her customers on a personal level at her Matthews location.

Andrew Stark/SCW photo

without guessing,’” she said. “Online shopping is kind of guessing a lot of the information. Anyone can write something online, but face-to-face you’re going to tell the truth to someone.”

Horne takes that same truthful, small-store approach to her customer service strategy.

A former executive with Belk and a 35year veteran of the cosmetic industry, Horne said customer service has always been her strong point and something she’s brought to Backyard Birds.

“The biggest thing for us is customer service and having the same people run the business for so long,” Horne said. “There are a lot of people who truly come here because of that. We know them and we know what they want.”

As another customer exits the store on a typical Monday, Horne waves goodbye, of course referring to her by her first name.

That’s how she has kept her customers happy and built a strong business. To be recognized for any of that is truly icing on the cake.

“It means that I think what I wanted to accomplish is paying off,” Horne said. “I wanted people comfortable to come in here and have a place to come instead of all of that online stuff. If you can feel and touch and be comfortable doing it. I think that makes a big difference. And we’ll help you find what you need and get you on your way.”

Want to learn more?

Backyard Birds is located at 1819 Matthews Township Pkwy., Suite 800, Matthews. Call 704-841-9453 or visit www. thebirdfoodstore.com for details.

CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH CENTERS

Dr. Jason McDonald

by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – Growing up as a child on the West Coast, Dr. Jason McDonald suffered. At times he suffered a lot.

He had developed chronic headaches, and sometimes they’d occur daily. But with his family in medicine, they sought a mostly traditional approach to his treatment, although to little avail.

“My grandmother was head nurse at a hospital,” said McDonald, owner of Chiropractic Health Centers. “So we tried the Western way and tried just about everything she said, but none of that was helping with my headaches. It wasn’t until my dad and I were rear-ended in a car wreck and part of the settlement was that we would go to a chiropractor. I didn’t know why then, but it really started helping my headaches and they got better and better.”

With the effects of chiropractic care greatly improving his quality of life, McDonald wondered what else could be accomplished through its methods.

The beginning Dr. McDonald got his undergraduate degree from Western Washington University in Bellingham, Wash. His doctorate was earned from Life Chiropractic College West in Hayward, Calif.

McDonald’s training and education didn’t stop there, as he was trained by the renowned Dr. Roy Sweat in Atlanta. Sweat is one of the Southeast’s top trainers in Atlas Orthogonal techniques, a less intense alternative that is ideal for many common issues.

After leaving Atlanta, McDonald eventually met Naomi Scott a clinical massage and bodywork professional and moved to Charlotte, with whom he opened Chiropractic Health Centers first seven years ago in the Arboretum.

Scott, McDonald and an office manager have been together ever

since. For four years now, the clinic has been in south Charlotte, located at 17228 Lancaster Hwy., Suite 208.

The clinic is now set up with state-of-the-art equipment including leading-edge X-ray technology that allows them to treat patients more effectively.

Specializing in individualism McDonald is one of a very select handful of chiropractors who are board-certified in the Atlas Orthogonal technique.

There aren’t many chiropractors in the area who can perform this technique that is more gentle and requires no popping or cracking of the neck.

The certification adds an extra two years of school on top of the eight already completed by McDonald.

The training allows him to see more specialized patients with ailments ranging from headaches to migraines; neck, shoulder and low back pain; vertigo; MS; and early-onset Parkinson’s disease.

“Everyone who comes in as a patient needs something different.

You may need something specialized, or you may need some more generic stuff. I try to gear what I do to each individual patient,” McDonald said.

Not the only difference McDonald is board-certified in a very specific chiropractic skill that few have, but he doesn’t allow that to determine who he sees.

In fact, most of his exemplary online reviews laud his work with children, elderly and everyone in between.

McDonald is trained in a variety of disciplines ranging from extremity adjusting, children chiropractic, cranial adjusting techniques and foundation training to more diversified techniques including Thompson-drop technique, the activator Method, myofacial-release techniques and BGI, among others.

Dr. Jason McDonald (left) is one of few chiropractors specially trained in Atlas Orthogonal techniques. He treats patients from infants to elders with individualized care. If he and clinical massage professional Naomi Scott (right) can’t fix a patient’s ailments, they’ll refer them to someone who can. Andrew Stark/SCW photo

“It’s not a cookie-cutter type of healthcare place,” McDonald said.

“In the medical system today I think too often people just throw this or that at patients. At (a competitor) they see a person every two to five minutes and don’t do any type of exam. We take the time to figure it out whether it’s a massage with Naomi, any variety of techniques with me or we’ll refer out to a physical therapist or other professional if needed. It’s much more patient-oriented and we do treat everyone as an individual patient.”

Simple, people-first approach McDonald and his team can help the typical weekend warrior with low back pain to more complex cases of vertigo and concussions because no two cases are alike. And if they can’t help you there, Chiropractic Health Centers will find patients relief somewhere.

McDonald and his staff have a network of specialists they will re-

fer patients to if needed, but even those referrals are done with the patient in mind.

“Every person that I refer to I take very seriously,” he said. “We don’t get anything from referrals, there are no kickbacks to us but the patients that I’m sending trust what I say and usually go where we say. If a patient doesn’t have a good experience that reflects on us so we build relationships with people like us that do a good job.”

So no matter if you are being helped in the clinic or not, Dr. McDonald and his team are committed to your health.

“I think there’s a couple of things that distinguish us,” McDonald said. “It’s results and then authenticity. I got in this because I really wanted to help people. It’s genuine and I think people can feel that. So much of it today is sales and it’s marketing and I’ve never been about that and am not comfortable with that. I just focus on

taking care of the patients and our patients feel that.

“The kind of results we want to make with our patients are long-lasting ones. We don’t want to sweep it under the rug, but what sets us apart as a healthcare practice is that a lot of practices try to do a cookie-cutter approach. If someone needs that, great, but what about all of the other people? Our office is trying to meet the patient where they are, seeing what’s going on and find a successful treatment.”

Want to know more?

Dr. Jason McDonald and business partner Naomi Scott, who practices clinical massage, run Chiropractic Health Centers in south Charlotte. The office is located at 17228 Lancaster Hwy., suite 208, Charlotte. For more information, call 704-271-3160 or visit them online at www.chiropractichealth centers.com.

Page 4A • South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019

KINGS JEWELRY

Suat Pamukci

by Karie Simmons karie@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Suat Pamukci and her husband, Steve, are living the American dream.

Originally from Turkey, they both grew up in the jewelry business and ran a successful store in Istanbul before deciding to move to the United States in 1999 to raise a family. Shortly after, they opened Kings Jewelry in Matthews and have been in the same location for the last 16 years.

“Being a small business owner is not easy, but if you have faith in yourself and the people around you, you’ll do good. And faith in God,” Suat said.

Steve is the jeweler at Kings Jewelry and performs a variety of services from custom jewelry design and crafting, to watch and jewelry repair, resizing, remounting, soldering, engraving and stone setting.

Meanwhile, Suat handles the sales and customer service side of the business. She said it’s a mix of passion and family tradition that’s kept her going all these years.

“It’s a very interesting job.

Once you’re around it, you love it and you want to continue that tradition,” she said. “It’s also very rewarding. Jewelry always gives happiness to people. They come to you when they want to celebrate, whether it’s a birthday, an engagement, a new baby … you see that sparkle in their eyes and that’s what makes you happy.”

She likes helping and building relationships with customers. People often come to Kings Jewelry and ask about her when she’s not there.

“I think that’s because I connect with people and I take my time,” Suat said. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a high-ticket item or a battery. Everyone gets my full attention and it’s not rushed.”

Kings Jewelry offers a variety of styles and price ranges for nearly any budget and it’s Suat’s job to

help customers find the perfect gift. The store has a variety of fine pieces including diamond jewelry, engagement rings and precious and semi precious stones and jewelry.

She said many come in with little to no idea what they’re looking for, so she asks questions to help narrow it down.

She tries to learn as much as she can about the person receiving the gift by asking what kind of jewelry they like; their favorite colors; whether they’re into earrings, rings, necklaces, watches or pendants; if they’re casual or dressy; what their birthstone is; and what pieces or styles they already have.

Despite Kings Jewelry’s large inventory, Suat said it’s actually quite easy for her to visualize the person receiving the gift and help the customer choose.

“I enjoy the challenge of trying to find the right gift to the right people,” she said.

Suat’s son, John, is in graduate school and helps out at the store whenever he can. He admires his mother’s ability to not only remember each customer who walks into Kings Jewelry, but also make a personal connection.

“She can see you five years earlier and see you again and know what jewelry you like and everything about you,” he said. “Everyone is like family to her and that’s why they come back here.”

Plus, he said, her story is inspiring. She came to America and was able to adapt to a new language and culture and start a thriving small business, all while being a mother to three young kids.

Growing up, John said his mother always maintained a healthy work-life balance because family is important to her. Even to this day, no matter how busy her day is, she always makes time to cook dinner for the family.

“She taught me passion, positive attitude and work ethic. They always told me, ‘Hard work pays off,’” John said. “So I hear the words and I see the action.”

Suat Pamukci, of Kings Jewelry, has been a staple in the Matthews community for the past 16 years.

Karie Simmons/SCW photos

“When I come to work, I am happy,” Suat added. “When you love what you do, you are happy and I think that makes a difference.”

Want to go?

Kings Jewelry is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday at 1819 Matthews Township Pkwy., Suite 400, Matthews.

Call 704-841-2013 or visit www. thekingsjewelry.com for details.

FIRE & ICE THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE

Ashley Dwyer

by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

Publisher Adrian Garson presents Alistair Williams, of The Portrait Gallery, with a Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly's Best of the Weekly award for Best Date Night. Charisma Howard/A Brew & You

THE PORTRAIT GALLERY

Alistair Williams

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Alistair Williams could be found at The Portrait Gallery on Dec. 17 leading a sold-out cocktail class.

Williams showed about three dozen people how to properly pair three classic holiday cocktails with seasonal cuisine. He's not only a professor at Johnson & Wales University, but he's also the managing partner for the unique bar-restaurant concept.

Williams has been involved in the food and drink scene since he was 15 years old. His career has taken him all over the world, including mainland Europe, Africa and the Far East. In fact, he's lived in seven other countries.

The Portrait Gallery's presence in downtown Matthews has allowed liquor and wine from around the world, as well as global trends in food and drink, to become more accessible to the community.

His experiences operating The Portrait Gallery also provide his students

at Johnson & Wales with fresh real-world insight into the hospitality industry.

Many of the experiences he shares with students can be as recent as “last night” or “last weekend.”

The Portrait Gallery is housed within a downtown building that is over 100 years old. An art gallery and photo studio used to occupy the space. The décor plays on the art theme with famous paintings, white marble surfaces and sculptures.

The menu for this European-inspired concept is seasonal with family-style dishes and small plates that use local ingredients.

The bar serves handcrafted cocktails, artisanal wines and craft beers.

Williams describes The Portrait Gallery as a foodled bar, where the wine and cocktails are equally as important as the food. He encourages people to come in for a craft cocktail or a glass of wine even if they're not hungry.

“I think people see us as a restaurant first and foremost,” Williams said. “We want to be a community

bar that does great food.”

The Portrait Gallery has been an active member of the Matthews Chamber of Commerce. It has donated a portion of sales to organizations like the Humane Society and offered discounts for first-responders on specific days of the calendar.

Staff served cookies and hot chocolate to 150 children in downtown for the annual Christmas tree lighting.

In the coming year, Williams would like to bring more live music to the venue, as well as reach out to nearby offices to expose more people to the menu.

Aside from food pairings, The Portrait Gallery sells half-priced wine on Wednesdays, half-priced craft cocktails on Thursdays and lunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

“To have people coming in every day is just bringing downtown back to life and that's what we're trying to do,” Williams said. “Downtown Matthews is a magical place.”

Want to learn more?

The Portrait Gallery is located at 118 E. Charles St., Matthews. Call 704-3699982 or visit www.pgmat thews.com for details.

MINT HILL – Ashley Dwyer has a lot going on – being a mother, student, teacher and small business owner into one harmonious mixture.

“It’s stress if you don’t enjoy it, but it’s passion if you really love it,” she said. “You have to figure out what in your life do you love enough that is not going to be stressful.”

Dwyer, the owner of Fire & Ice Therapeutic Massage, didn’t get into business ownership out of a lifelong dream. It just happened.

While working as a pharmacy technician, she was robbed at gunpoint twice within a span of a week. Her newfound PTSD also let Dwyer know it was time for a career change.

She worked at both an independent and nationally recognized franchise massage business, before the opportunity to open Fire & Ice arose in 2015.

“I never really thought of opening my own place, it just sort of landed in my lap and grew,” she said. “A lady I barely knew called me out of the blue and offered me a small space a yoga studio, and it continued to grow. Now here we are.”

Dwyer, her six massage therapists and two front desk staff moved into their current location at 4732 Lebanon Road almost two years ago, but have been thriving since she opened as a solopreneur with repeat customers and walk-ins alike.

While Fire & Ice leans more toward the medical side of the industry, there is something there for everyone, including six tranquil massage rooms. There’s also a dedicated couples massage room with two tables.

Dwyer and her staff specialize in Swedish, deep tissue, neuromuscular, orthopedic, hot stone, prenatal, reflexology, Thai massage and more.

She sells her hand-made soaps at the front counter, while Dwyer’s mother sells her own hand-made scented candles.

Fire & Ice is also one of two massage practices in the city that has a prenatal table.

And it’s never cookie-cutter. There are massage therapists at other places – Dwyer has seen some of it first hand – who give the same, standard massage to every client, but that’s not how Fire & Ice operates.

“I understand the effect that massage has on the body, so that I can properly explain that to my clients,” she said. “I’m able to tell the client, ‘OK, this is working because of this.’ rather than just saying, ‘OK, that was your

Fire & Ice Therapeutic Massage Owner Ashley Dwyer specializes in all types of massages at her six-room studio in Mint Hill.

Andrew Stark/SCW photo

massage, now come back in a month’ No one gets the same massage here. Each client receives their own personalized treatment plan.”

That’s part of the reason why Dwyer and Fire & Ice have grown such a loyal fan base.

Another may be Dwyer’s willingness to grow herself and others.

In addition to being a life and business coach who is working on finishing her business consulting certification, she’s also the director of continuing education for the Massage Innovation Network for Therapists.

“There are a lot of people in the massage industry who don’t stay in the industry because it’s a very hard field to be in,” she said.

“The average range of job span for a massage therapist averages on two to four years. It has it ebbs and flows with the economy, and we’re still considered a luxury, even though here we’re more on the medical end of things.

We can be the first thing people cut out.

“I give them the knowledge and information instead of just getting a certificate to renew their massage license. I teach them how to take the skills that they’ve learned a step further by integrating them into their business through coaching not just so they can meet the legal requirements- but how to operate a business, how to do marketing and how to prolong their career.”

Dwyer has made a name for herself in her career by a pretty simple mantra.

“If you do good work and do good things, your clients will help you out,” she said. “You have to go out and meet people, build a good rapport with your clients and reach back out to people when you haven’t seen them in a while. A lot of people don’t like to do that, but that’s part of what we do.

“Massage isn’t just about relaxation. It’s not like getting your hair cut or your nails done.

South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019 • Page 5A

MAINSTREAM BOUTIQUE

Understanding the US Constitution

Dawn Talley

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

CHARLOTTE – Dawn Talley has a thoughtful approach to serving customers at Mainstream Boutique.

She realizes that some women are in the store celebrating a special occasion, while others may need a pick-me-up. The brand's mantra is to empower, strengthen and celebrate. She also wants its aura to be welcoming, uplifting and full of love.

“It's definitely been very rewarding,” Talley said of running the store. “I've met a lot of fabulous ladies. That's the best part of it – just the women who come in. Everyone has a different story. We're here regardless of what the story is. We're here to make things better and to make them feel better.”

Talley opened Mainstream Boutique in August 2017 within the Waverly shopping center. Prior to that, Talley had been a loyal customer of the brand for 20 years – back when it was a trunk show.

When the brand opened a brick-and-mortar store in Winston-Salem, Talley and her mother would travel there to shop. It was the owner of that shop who encouraged Talley to consider opening a store of her own.

Having worked in the corporate finance sector for many years, she was ready for a change.

“I wanted to do something different,” Talley said. “My father used to always say, 'you get one trip around the sun.'”

Mainstream Boutique carries reasonably priced clothing that appeals to multiple generations of women.

The layout is much different from other boutiques in Waverly, such as Fab'rik, Ivy & Leo and Scout & Molly's. Talley's staff designed it that way to make shoppers feel more at home.

Talley tries to find pieces for her store that are interchangeable. A lot of the displays feature complete outfits with a top, bottom and jewelry to show off the inventory's versatility.

Each spring, the store donates 10% of a week's worth of sales to the Jamie Kimble Foundation for Courage, which works to stop domestic violence. Talley knows the Kimble family, so helping the foundation really hits home.

The store also presents a fashion show in December for Saint Nektarios Greek Ortho-

Dawn Talley left the corporate world to open a women’s boutique. The beauty of the move was that her boutique is a brand she’s been wearing for 20 years. Photo courtesy of Mainstream Boutique

dox Church, which helps the congregation give back to various charities.

The store has brought in celebrity stylists like George Brescia, author of the book, "Change Your Clothes, Change Your Life.”

Brescia has worked with top names in fashion, such as Ralph Lauren and Donna Karan.

The store also partners with artisans, including a Charlotte teacher, that create oneof-a-kind handmade jewelry.

All of these factors show why South Charlotte Weekly readers voted Mainstream Boutique as Best Women's Boutique during the 2019 Best of the Weekly reader's choice campaign.

Talley recently hired a full-time manager to help her achieve a better work-life balance.

She hopes to use some of her free time to network more in the community – something she did for 11 years as a volunteer with the Charlotte Chamber of Commerce.

But for a self-professed shopaholic, Talley may find it difficult to pry herself away from the store.

“I have always loved clothes,” Talley said.

“Opening my own boutique was like a little girl's dream.”

Tuesday, January 14th, at 7 p.m.

Join us as retired professor, Roy Colquitt, presents a short yet insightful study into the basics of the US Constitution. You’ll learn how rulings by the Supreme Court have interpreted and shaped our understanding and perceptions of the document.

RSVP today!

P ROVIDENCE

704-753-7019

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Want to learn more?

Mainstream Boutique is located at 7314 Waverly Walk Ave., Suite E-5, Charlotte.

Call 704-844-8248 or visit www.main streamboutique.com for details.

GARRITY & GOSSAGE LLP

Kimberly Gossage

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Dec. 12 marked a day of major professional milestones for Kimberly Gossage.

She attended the Matthews Chamber of Com- Gossage merce's annual holiday gala, where the attorney presided over the group for the first time as president of its board of directors. The chamber also recognized Gossage as Business Person of the Year.

Since she and her business partner, Jennefer Garrity, launched Garrity & Gossage LLP in 2006, the attorneys have served on the board of directors for the chamber, Matthews HELP Center, COS Kids and charities that support senior citizens.

“We want to be approachable,” Gossage said.

That philosophy extends to their law office, which is a historic home a few doors down from the Reid House on West John Street. You won't see any marble columns or smell mahogany inside, but you may notice rescue cats Gigi and Phoebe or maybe even a three-legged pit bull named Roz Gossage said they've seen a lot of growth in downtown Matthews over the past 14 years, but it still has small-town appeal. You can still find familiar faces walking down the street or popping into a restaurant.

Garrity & Gossage specializes in estate planning, probate, guardianship and Medicaid.

Being the oldest of three children in a single-parent household, Gossage had to grow up fast when her mother died at age 46. The college student was executor of her mother's estate and legal guardian to aging relatives.

Gossage learned to navigate the legal system with the help of an attorney. He would give Gossage a to-do list of legal tasks to accomplish over the course of the week without charging her.

Working with that attorney, she realized that understanding the law was within reach.

She actually enjoyed it.

“That gentleman made a difference in my life,” Gossage said. "I wanted to do the same for someone else."

After graduating from law school in 1998, Gossage began her career doing insurance defense litigation. She worked for three firms

Attorneys struggle to achieve work-life balance, but Kimberly Gossage was comfortable enough to take her first vacation in years thanks to the encouragement of her staff. Photo courtesy of Garrity & Gossage LLP

over seven years, meeting Garrity at the last firm.

They realized they had taken the same Legal Clinic for the Elderly at Wake Forest University School of Law and noticed how there weren't any firms in the area focused on elder law.

They eventually launched their venture, which was empowering yet scary. Not only did they venture into a new specialty, but they also abandoned the partnership track at a larger firm and gave up things attorneys take for granted, such as health benefits.

“Making that transition from being a lawyer to being a business owner was fun and exciting but obviously represented its own challenges,” Gossage said.

They had to learn a new set of business skills, such as accounting, human resources and marketing.

Surviving the recession was big for the firm. Gossage is also proud of the firm earning recognition from the North Carolina Bar Association in 2017 for its pro bono work.

Gossage recently achieved a more personal milestone. She unplugged from work for a month to explore the Canadian Rockies.

It had been her first vacation in years. Staff encouraged her to go and kept everything running smoothly while she was away.

Despite experiencing a blizzard that dropped four feet of snow, she had a blast.

She plans on continuing her travels next year.

Gossage speaks from experience when she tells budding business owners to be brave and just jump to that next opportunity.

“You're the only one who can do it,” she says. “Sitting around complaining about things not happening does not change a thing.”

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @SOUTHCLTWEEKLY

Page 6A • South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019

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MORE FINALISTS South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019 • Page 1B

PASSIONATE PAWS

Dr. Susan Bonilla

by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

WAXHAW – Dr. Susan Bonilla says she was a typical girl growing up, but always held a deep love of animals and dreamed of one day becoming a veterinarian.

With that love in mind, she designed Passionate Paws Animal Hospital, a full-service spa-like dog and cat sanctuary of care.

Working for the dream Bonilla has always had a love for animals. She says she was encouraged by her mother to become a vet if that was going to be an easy path through school.

But that wasn’t exactly the case, despite her nearly lifelong passion and success in school.

“I’ve been in the veterinary field either as a technician or a receptionist since I was 17,” she said.

“Even as I got older, I never decided to get off that pathway.”

and smell so sterile? We decided to design a hospital for pet parents where every dog and cat would feel comfortable.”

Passionate Paws is now one of four animal hospitals within a 100mile radius that has been granted the title of Fear Free Certified Practice, certification that validates Bonilla’s approach to pet healthcare.

It is a rigorous accreditation process that also requires staff members to become Fear Free certified professionals. Fear Free for pet parents means you can be sure that your fur baby’s experience will be one that works to eliminate fear, anxiety and stress at every visit.

The differences are everywhere Stephen Bonilla, holding the couple’s 15-year-old dog Scrappy, and his wife, Dr. Susan Bonilla, run When clients first walk in, the Passionate Paws Animal Hospital in Waxhaw. Andrew Stark/SCW photo smiling faces of the front desk staff to partner once again with South able to calm her down and now she dresses where neighbors have obviously told one another and word of greet them. Off to the right is a Charlotte Dog Rescue for the is much more relaxed for exams.

“I have dogs who have had bad mouth has spread. new addition that just opened in fourth annual Pumps N’ Pints experiences and have been hard October. It features a break room, event on May 2, 2020.

In addition, Bonilla is certi- to work with in the past because Sounds of making a difference veterinarian work stations, groomStephen posted news of Bonilla’s ing stations and dog baths (more fied in acupuncture, chiropractic they’re too unpredictable, but we and physical therapy, which often work with them,” Bonilla said. nomination for Charlotte Media on them later).

“We have what we call ‘happy vis- Group’s Small Business Person of Every exam room uses pher- comes in handy.

A different kind of place “Sometimes traditional medi- its’ where the dogs will visit with the Year on Passionate Paws' FaceBonilla and her husband, Ste- omones that are sprayed to give phen, an MBA who serves as a calm, relaxing feel. Soft music cine might not work on your dog,” staff to just receive treats and love.” book page.

That type of one-on-one treatThe comments came fast and hospital administrator/marketing hums in the rooms that are paint- she said. “Let’s say your dog has hit home when they were penned guru, wanted to make a name for ed with soft, fresh color schemes. a disease that needs steroids but ment has worked very well.

“Clients say it all of the time that from colleagues, friends, and, most themselves by being different by Each room features a doggie bed would also benefit from NSAIDs and couch for the dog and their for his arthritis, but cannot be on their dogs are never happier than importantly, the human clients she being compassionate.

Stephen recounted one Sunday owner to feel more comfortable NSAIDs because of the steroids. when they are here,” Stephen said. helps on a daily basis.

“The comments from the story when the business was just opening and give the office more of a spa- We could do cold laser therapy, acupuncture, platelet-rich plasma Part of the community brought her to tears,” Stephen said. and a woman had called to leave a like feel.

Stephen said when he first Bonilla is quick to admit it beThere is also a cat-only room injections to relieve arthritis dismessage for the following day.

“She was surprised when we an- that has no dog smells that could comfort, so it’s nice to have other opened, with his marketing back- cause it means the long hours and options.” ground, he knew he needed to get dedication she has invested are swered, but her dog had a partic- make felines uncomfortable.

Bonilla also breaks the norm the new business’s name out there. worth it.

There is a side door where nerular case and she only lived right “I knew when we opened we “I’m speechless,” Bonilla said. around the corner,” he said. “Dr. vous dogs could walk straight into with her doggie baths, which unBonilla said, 'You know what, I’ll the exam room if they aren’t com- like the traditional slippery metal needed to be a part of the commu- “Sometimes it’s tiring being a vet just go over.’ We went over togeth- fortable walking through the front tubs with scary water hoses, Pas- nity, so we went full in on trying to and sometimes I wonder if clients sionate Paws has no-slip pads and connect with the community,” he notice how much time we put in er, met the dog and took care of door and seeing other animals.

“Providing the level of service a gentle stream of water that won’t said. “From there, it was network- after the visit. Being recognized for the dog. The woman went on Nexing, and I did a lot of networking, how the business has developed is tdoor.com and spread the word. that we provide here was enough frighten dogs.

They even offer a monthly pet with the Union County Chamber great, but to see I have impacted so From that moment on, it seems to start fueling word of mouth,” like the momentum has just kept Stephen said. “We knew there had grief group for pet parents experi- of Commerce and the Waxhaw many clients on a personal level is Business Association, which we’re truly rewarding and keeps me moto be a better approach to health- encing or anticipating a loss. building.” both a part of, and going to oth- tivated to do what I do everyday.”

So what makes Passionate Paws care.”

No discrimination here er groups and other functions and Bonilla also donates her time to different? Everything.

Passionate Paws is a full-service influencers.”

Want to learn more?

“We’re pet parents. We do every- the Waxhaw Police Department’s Then the business started speakPassionate Paws Animal Hospithing for our fur babies,” Bonilla K9’s and is looking to help out vet, and they won’t turn anyone away. ing for itself. tal is located at 1526 Providence with Union County Sheriff's Ofsaid. “When we opened up this The New York Times Syndication Sales Corporation There was one case where a dog Stephen said when he went to Road S., Waxhaw. Call 704-256620 Eighth Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10018 place, Stephen always asked why fice.

Foralso Information Call: 1-800-972-3550 She holds microchip clin- had a troubled past during medical send out Christmas cards this sea- 7576 or www.passionatepawsani animals had to always sit in cold Release April 3,exams, 2019 but Bonilla was gradually son, there were little clusters of ad- malhospital.com for details. twice a year. Wednesday, The Bonillas plan chairs or why does it have to look icsFor

Crossword ACROSS 1 Do some digging 6 “Good joke!”

10 Phishing scheme, e.g.

14 City whose cathedral is the subject of a series of Monet paintings 15 “Good gravy!”

16 Target of the U.S.-backed Radio Martí 17 Exuded 18 Was afraid of losing 20 Pre-22-Across 22 Go for a stroll 23 Indian bread 24 One who gets booked, informally 26 Pre-29-Across 29 Subject in acting school 32 Features of leopards

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56 Douglas ___, author of “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” 58 ___ boots 59 Pod creature 60 Regal maker 61 Flabbergast 62 “All right already!”

63 Skunk’s defense

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Online subscriptions: Today’s puzzle and more than 7,000 past puzzles, nytimes.com/crosswords ($39.95 a year).

Read about and comment on each puzzle: nytimes.com/wordplay.

HIGH SCHOOL

ATHLETE Matthews 11100 Monroe Rd. 704-841-2025

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DOWN 1 Positive 41 Bud of baseball 2 Thatcher’s creation 42 Pre-44-Across 3 Anise-flavored 44 Job in a liqueur monastery 4 Bar snack 45 Inauguration recitation 5 Causes (oneself) to be cherished 46 Enjoy a nice long 6 Long-beaked bath bird 47 Pre-50-Across 7 Soup thickener 50 How emotionally 8 Doesn’t just developed people choose randomly handle things 9 Autoplaying 54 One cabinet in a annoyances, kitchen, typically sometimes 10 Dish that can TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE give you garlic breath D A N K A S A H I 11 Park place?

E M I L B O X U P 12 Ferrara who M A T E O M E G A directed “King of New York” O U R P A L M I R E T R I E S T E 13 Wasn’t late for L T R O I S T I L 19 Supermarket aids E T A S H O U L D 21 Extremely, J O I N T A C T E informally M E T A O K C A R 25 Auto-reply?

I C H A T C L O T S 26 “Stat!”

N T O U T N E 27 Increased O S T R U N A T A B 28 The Teflon Don L W R I T V A N E 29 Virgil’s fellow T A P S E E V A C traveler A R I T E S I L K 30 Eyelike openings

Waxhaw 1315 N. Broome St. 704-243-2024

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Other finalists

Not all of the finalists for Small Business Person of the Year are included in the paper. Here are a list of other businesses owners who recieved nominations: Kyle & Janet Baker and Ben & Lauren Kallenbach – 4th Corner Bakehouse Dale Bishop – Movement Mortgage Dryw Blanchard – MaidPro of South Charlotte Paul Blanchette – Nerds to Go of Matthews Laura Budd – Weaver Budd Allison Childress – Chicken Salad Chick of Matthews Annette Dance – Mint Hill Roasting Kate Donaghy – John Street Printing Matthews Dr. Henry Ernst – Pleasant Plains Dental Julie Fox – Fox’s Alley Bowling, Bar & Grill Neil Gimon – The DreamChaser's Brewery Dr. Michael Guerriero – ProActive Chiropractic Deanna Hicks – One Girl Inspired Linda Hill – Move, Pack, Clean Claudie Johnson – Self Help Credit Union Dr. Kyle Jones – Carolina’s Chiropractic & Spinal Rehab Betsey Lamb – Nothing Bundt Cakes of Marvin Jean and Larry Leonard – King’s Greenhouse Sunshine Linzi – Craft Studio Indian Trail Abbe McCraken – McCraken Photography Dan McKenna – Keller Williams Realty Christy Miller – Mnemosyne Studio Kristin Mitchell – ARTBOX of Waxhaw Jennifer Purrazella – Sardis Marketplace Joe Sherrill – Sherrill Structural Repair Allen Sparks – EQ Custom Builders Barry Steiger – Mario’s Deb Stewart – Thunderbay Riding Academy Karen Trauner – Sticks & Cones Ice Cream

PAUL NEEL

CHARLOTTE CATHOLIC FOOTBALL Neel, the Cougars senior running back, ran 27 times for 159 yards and two touchdowns, both of which were scored in the fourth quarter of Catholic’s 23-7 state title win over Southern Nash. Neel was the game’s Most Outstanding Player.

Are you a coach and know an incredible athlete you’d like us to feature? email us at Andrew@cmgweekly.com

Page 2B • South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019

PEDDLER’S PARADISE

Beth Tourtellot

by Lee Noles Contributor

MONROE – Not just a shop, but a destination isn’t some catchy phrase Beth Tourtellot displays on her business card. it’s a philosophy she strictly follows since Tourtellot opening Peddler’s Paradise almost two years ago.

On any given day the eclectic store of antiques, knickknacks and home décor becomes a bustling place where customers not only shop, but can grab a chair, have a drink and spend time sharing a laugh.

“People just love coming here,” Tourtellot said. “I have a lot of repeat business. And they don’t just come in here to shop. They come here to hangout and to visit.”

The sense of community is something Tourtellot aimed for when she developed the idea of a place where people rent space to sell an assortment of handmade crafts. But the dream would have stayed just that if it wasn’t for a cancer diagnosis a few years ago, which made Tourtellot seize the opportunity.

So, while still in remission, Tourtellot started to put her more than 20 years of experience working in marketing and retail to use. She started by getting advice from a variety of business owners who ran a store like the one she wanted to open. They discussed what to charge vendors and how to track sales. Tourtellot proceeded to search social media for artists who could make the type of creations she wanted to offer. Within two weeks, she had more than 150 people to interview as possible vendors.

The business venture wasn’t without bumps. Tourtellot at one point had to switch her whole concept when she realized early on the idea of promoting artists just wasn’t selling. She began to find her niche by attracting more homemade craftwork for people who could use it for everyday life. Another lesson she learned looking back was the need to talk with city officials from Monroe to help in getting grants that aided in paying rent and restoring the façade on the front of the store.

“I wish I would have checked that out earlier,” Tourtellot said. “There are so many opportunities out there.”

One part of running a business Tourtellot knew well was her willingness to adapt to the ever-changing likes and needs of her customers. She began offering classes that range from ornament decorations to making apple

pies within the first few months of opening.

Tourtellot also began selling more food from local and state vendors. She even drew from her own life by creating a section in the store dedicated to CBD oils and other holistic medicines she started using to curb the pain from the surgeries and months of chemotherapy she endured. She also took the upstairs she initially used for classes at the store and redesigned it for birthday parties and other celebrations.

Peddler’s Paradise is also one of the few businesses in the downtown area which stays open seven days a week.

“It’s knowing what (the customer) wants,” Tourtellot said. “It’s not always what you want. If you always sell what you want, your not going to be doing it very long.”

The business isn’t just about making money for Tourtellot. It’s also about giving back to the community. She recently had two fundraisers. One was for a friend whose son was injured in a motorcycle accident. The other was a photo shoot with people’s pets and Santa Claus. The money Tourtellot raised was given back to Pawsitive Impact, a dog rescue.

The basement of the store is also dedicated to storing food she gives to local food banks.

“God put us here to help others,” Tourtellot said. “When I got this space, I had enough to help others and we have to help each other.”

Tourtellot’s boundless energy isn’t just limited to her store. She founded the Monroe Merchant Association in 2018 to bring local business owners together and develop ideas to entice shoppers to downtown. The association roughly has around 50 members.

She also worked with other businesses to develop a pop-up market that brought vendors from all around the state. Tourtellot created a monthly Sip-And-Shop in which people come to downtown to not only enjoy stores but also local restaurants.

“I have fallen in love with downtown,” Tourtellot said. “It’s very pretty, the historic buildings are amazing and there is free parking.”

Tourtellot spends more time at the store than she does at home. Even when she does get away from the business, she is still online looking for new vendors or trying to develop ideas to bring in customers.

“It’s not work to me. It’s my passion,” she said. “It’s something I always wanted to do.”

Want to learn more?

Peddler's Paradise is located at 105 W. Franklin St., Monroe. Call 980-279-6606 or visit www.peddlersparadisemonroe.com for details.

Jay Buinicky got into the family business over 20 years ago and has since rebranded to Mobility & More, a one-stop shop for mobility needs. Andrew Stark/SCW photo

MOBILITY & MORE

Jay Buinicky

by Andrew Stark andrew@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS -- Jay Buinicky moved to Charlotte in 1997 to work with his father in the family medical equipment business that had started more than 20 years earlier.

When his father retired about 12 years ago, Buinicky continued in the business and rebranded as Mobility & More.

The business moved in September 2019 from their old location in Indian Trail into the old First Choice Medical building in the heart of downtown Matthews.

While the products and technology have changed a great deal, Buinicky has kept the family feel his father began four decades ago.

Like its name suggests, the business, located at 251 N. Trade St., across from Kristopher’s, is all about mobility and comfort.

They showcase motorized and manual wheelchairs, mobility scooters as well as other mobility-enhancing products such as lift chair recliners, but Mobility & More is so much more.

“Our focus is mobility,” Buinicky said.

“It’s in our name, but we also carry other aids of daily living whether it be reachers, bath safety equipment, back braces, knee braces, comfort shoes, compression stockings, and there’s just a lot of useful products that make it easy to live more comfortably.”

In addition to the retail showroom, the large property has a warehouse to store extra supplies and equipment they rent out and service on a regular basis.

“Our focus and goal is to help folks,

whether it be seniors or people with mobility-related issues, stay as mobile, comfortable and safe as possible, specifically in their home,” Buinicky said, adding the best way to truly know the right fit for someone’s specific needs is to test it out in a showroom.

“People are so quick to go online to Amazon or somewhere, and then they get it, have to put it together and it ends up not being the right fit,” he said. “There’s nothing like seeing it and trying it.”

Buinicky, who lives in Weddington with his family, believes his new Matthews location is the perfect fit for his growing business.

“This is great,” he said. “Matthews is such a great community. It’s a growing, thriving community and it’s a lot of fun being downtown. We obviously have a lot of traffic driving by, we’re very accessible and we have probably one of the largest parking lots in downtown Matthews. There’s also a growing demographic that’s going to need our products in the future, and we want to be a resource for them.”

Buinicky said for his family business to get nominated for the Small Business Person of the Year was a surprise, but also validation that what he’s doing is working.

“It’s certainly great to be nominated. It’s flattering and exciting,” he said. “We try to treat our customers like they’re family or our grandparents, and I think that exudes in a lot of ways with how we handle our business. I think customers can see that. We’re a small business, we’re going to take care of them and we’re going to stand by our products.”

Want to learn more?

Mobility & More is located at 251 N. Trade St., Matthews. Call 704-821-7777 or visit www.mobility-more.com for details.

THREE LEAF ORTHODONTICS

Dr. Shane Markey

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

WAXHAW – Dr. Shane Markey is drawn to orthodontics for the art and science of fitting a smile to someone's face.

“When you get down to the final stages of treatment for anybody in braces or aligners, it's down to your eye and your eye for fine detail,” Markey said. “Orthodontists work to within a millimeter to create a smile. That change, as small as it might be, can be huge for a smile or a bite.”

Such attention to detail has helped Markey make Three Leaf Orthodontics an intricate part of the community.

Discovering his strengths Growing up on an Irish farm with four siblings in a town without an orthodontist, Markey wasn't able to get braces like many of his peers, whom were fitted in neighboring towns.

Markey realized he wanted to explore dentistry as a career when he was 15. Some of his older sister's friends were dentists, and she encouraged him to shadow one. He followed one around for a couple of days and was enamored by the outcomes of the experience. He noticed patients leaving appointments feeling less pain or more confidence.

Markey had always had an aptitude for such a career. He remembers wanting a chemistry set for Christmas at age 10 in hopes of creating chemical reactions. He entered science competitions in high school, earning Young Scientist of the Year honors for Ireland and the United Kingdom.

He left Ireland to study at the University of Liverpool School of Dentistry, where he received a bachelor's degree in dental surgery.

He stayed in England, where he opened his own practice.

Finding an opportunity The story didn't end there as

Markey traveled across the pond to New York City, where he'd be close to family and able to pursue additional education at NYU College of Dentistry. He earned a doctorate degree in dental surgery there.

He enrolled at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health at the University of Rochester, N.Y. to go deeper into dentistry.

Orthodontics appealed to him for several reasons. It was a challenging field that allowed him to work with younger patients. Plus, he enjoyed taking someone with crooked teeth and giving them a perfect smile.

After finishing school, he worked as an orthodontist in Arizona for a year before heading to Charlotte, where friends from college were living.

“I knew within a matter of months, this is where I'm going to drop my anchor,” he said.

Markey worked with a broker to find the right site for a new office.

He chose Waxhaw, specifically a location in the middle of the Cuthbertson, Marvin Ridge and Weddington school clusters.

His first impression of Waxhaw was that it felt like home. He was reminded of Ireland not only by the greenery but also how the business community was locally minded and focused on forging connections.

Realizing his dreams Markey had the opportunity to design his dream office.

It houses state-of-the-art technology, such as a digital impression system that creates 3D models of the teeth and gums without putting putty in patients' mouths.

The office includes a large open bay design, which reduces the uncertainty of the procedures for younger patients. Adults have the option of getting examined in a private office.

The office includes photography of landmarks taken by Carolyn Ann Ryan that include the Marvin

Dr. Shane Markey has been all smiles since the opening of Three Leaf Orthodontics in Waxhaw. Markey enjoys interacting with younger patients and seeing positive outcomes from his work. SCW file photo

Efird Park barn, the wooden pedestrian bridge over the railroad and the Waxhaw Water Tower.

“I wanted families to come in and feel like this is part of the community,” Markey said. “I want them to enjoy it as much as I enjoy coming here to work – like it's a second living room.”

Markey patterned his brand after the three-leaf shamrock, which conveys faith and kindness. It aligns with the family-centric practice he sought to create.

Connecting with community Three Leaf Orthodontics has been active in the community since opening Jan. 2.

Markey has partnered with several area schools by sponsoring extracurricular activities, donating services for raffles, teaching nutrition and oral hygiene classes and explaining what he does for a living at career days.

Markey finds orthodontics especially enjoyable because he's treating mostly young people.

“They are very funny,” he said.

“There's not a day that goes by where I don't laugh out loud.”

He has supported charities such

www.ThreeLeafOrtho.com • (704) 727-6868 8412 New Town Road, Suite A Waxhaw, NC 28173 as the Misty Meadows Mitey Riders, which provides therapeutic horseback riding to children with special needs, as well as the South Charlotte Dog Rescue and the Isabella Santos Foundation.

The office offers a rewards program in which patients can earn points for good grades, positive behavior and community activities that they can redeem for prizes or

vouchers.

Markey has embraced social media apps like Facebook and Instagram. His office posts a lot of photos of his work, especially of grinning patients.

“If I do the right thing by the patient, everything else falls into place,” he said. “Because you can sleep well at night knowing, I recommended the right treatment.”

South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019 • Page 3B

CAROLINA BEER TEMPLE

Rob Jacik

by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Rob Jacik took a chance on Downtown Matthews six years ago.

After opening Carolina Beer Temple Charlotte in 2013, the business owner put his faith in Matthews, bringing Seaboard Brewing and Temple Mojo to the downtown area as the town began to redevelop.

“It wasn’t overrun with large, national chains,” Jacik said. "There was just a bunch of small, independent businesses around us. That was a big draw because we wanted to support local and be part of that environment.”

Jacik and his wife were traveling through Belgium after Jacik left his corporate job at Microsoft. The two noticed the majority of the beer Belgians were consuming was made in their own country, and they wanted to do the same thing for North Carolina.

Jacik said he and his wife also noticed the connection in Belgium between monasteries and breweries, and decided to name their business Carolina Beer Temple as a tribute to what they saw in Belgium.

Jacik has committed to providing beers exclusively brewed in North Carolina. He also only serves beer from independent businesses instead of corporate brands and he has a commitment to “supporting the little guys.”

Seaboard Brewery, Taproom and Wine Bar, located on Trade Street, offers a variety of beers and wines. Visitors can also order small snack plates, cheese and charcuterie boards.

There is also a pizza place next door, allowing visitors to have pizza delivered to their table.

Temple Mojo, also located on Trade Street, offers a full craft beer bar featuring growler fills. They serve wine and coffee too. Visitors can get pizzas delivered to their table from the Exchange Pizza Depot as well.

Jacik said he has partnered with almost all of the local surrounding businesses to build up Matthews.

“I don’t want my business to operate on an island,” Jacik said. “I want to be surrounded by successful businesses. So, my goal was to get people to Matthews first. I was pretty confident if you’re into craft beer and you get to Matthews, you’ll find us and you’ll have a good time and see what we offer. My philosophy was to work with other business owners to create strong events and collaborate with each other.”

Jacik said when Downtown Matthews was in its early phases, there were many open spaces in the area. Now, he said there is no vacancy because Matthews has grown so much.

Back in 2017, owner Rob Jacik was excited to announce Seaboard would be brewing its own beer at the taproom. SCW file photo

Building relationships is a key part of successfully running a business in Jacik’s eyes.

“Everywhere we can build a relationship is an opportunity,” Jacik said. “That’s not just with our customers, though they are our number one priority, but we want to do beyond that. We’ve created relationships with town hall, we’ve created relationships with neighbors and in the general community, as well as our vendors and our delivery drivers.”

Jacik is part of the Red Brick Partnership in Matthews, which aims to increase economic development in the downtown area.

Matthews Commissioner John Urban works alongside Jacik in the partnership. Urban said Jacik has put a lot of faith in Matthews.

“Rob has been really, almost solely, instrumental in driving a lot of new businesses downtown,” Urban said. “He has been one of the driving factors in why downtown has grown the way it has grown.”

Urban appreciates Jacik’s work ethic and his approach to bringing new businesses to the area. He enjoys working with him.

“He continues to invest in downtown,” Urban said. “I hope other business leaders do the same thing. We really appreciate him being a big component of Matthews and it’s really a pleasure to work with him.”

Jacik plans to continue to invest in Downtown Matthews. He hopes to see all of his businesses grow and bring more people to the area, really putting Matthews on the map as a destination in the Charlotte region.

“We just want to keep on growing,” Jacik said. “We want to get more people to Matthews. We want Matthews to be seen as a bigger destination in the Charlotte market.

When they’re thinking of places to go for an evening, I want people to think of Matthews as one of those destinations.”

Want to learn more?

Carolina Beer Temple is located at 131-1C Matthews Station St., Matthews. Call 704847-2337 or visit www.carolinabeertemple. com for details.

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Atrium

Page 4B • South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019

MCCLINTOCK HEATING & COOLING

Rob and Kim McClintock

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Rob McClintock began his career with Miller Refrigeration, working up the ranks from helper to service manager. After 10-plus years, he left for Acosta Heating and Cooling, where he transitioned from service to sales.

Rob eventually learned enough about the trade to go out on his own, but he didn't know the first thing about running a business. So, he started taking business courses at Central Piedmont Community College, just as he did when he was learning how to become a technician.

One particular business instructor struck a chord with Rob. The instructor explained to students that while they likely had enough clients lined up to kickstart their businesses, those clients will eventually go away. The key takeaway for Rob was that his job was not only about fixing heaters and air conditioners, but it was also about getting new customers.

Rob and Kim McClintock launched McClintock Heating & Cooling in 2002.

Rob didn't take a paycheck for the first two years. The couple relied on Kim's marketing job at the Charlotte Observer as Rob invested everything they made back into the business. Kim would focus on the fledgling company's finances and marketing after coming home from work.

By 2005, the company had grown to the point in which Kim could leave the newspaper. She now oversees the business side of the company, which includes a heavy focus on marketing.

McClintock Heating & Cooling employs 50 people. Rob said they are the key to the company's success.

When they envisioned becoming business owners, Rob and Kim wanted to focus on the customer to stand out from others in the industry. They work hard to recruit and retain quality technicians so they can provide superior service to customers.

Rob and Kim's commitment to continuous education and training starts at the top and extends to everyone, including the people answering the phones and the technicians visiting customers.

“Technicians are going into people's homes, so they have to not only be good

technically, but they also have to be good working with people,” Kim said.

Training is also important to understand emerging technology. Kim said remote access to thermostats didn't exist 10 years ago, but now thermostats look like iPads.

Rob remembers a time when he could require at least five years of experience for people applying for a technician vacancy.

Due to shortages in the workforce, he focuses more on finding people with good attitudes that can be trained.

Rob is serving his second term as president of the North Carolina Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contracting Association, a trade organization that dates back to 1910. He is active in the organization because he believes in the mantra “a rising tide lift all boats.”

“One of the things we're focused on as much as anything is trying to identify ways to educate prospective employees to attract people to the business,” Rob said.

The McClintocks believe part of the solution is educating parents that the trades are a viable option to make a lot of money without incurring four years worth of college debt.

They have 13 people enrolled in a formal apprenticeship program, in which participants work during the day and take self-guided courses online in their free time.

McClintock Heating & Cooling serves Mecklenburg, Union and Cabarrus counties, but the company focuses a lot of its community outreach in Matthews. The Matthews Athletic & Recreation Association, Greater Matthews Habitat for Humanity, and Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts are among organizations to benefit from this outreach.

The company is also active in the Matthews and Union County chambers of commerce.

Want to learn more?

McClintock Heating & Cooling is located at 1253 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Matthews. Call 704-321-5207 or visit www.mcclintockhvac.com for details.

The McClintocks (top) have raised two children and started a thriving business where employees stay for years. Photos courtesy of McClintock Heating & Cooling

CAROLINA FUNCTIONAL NUTRITION

Dianne Nguyen has connected with many clients through outreach activities, such as the Thrive Over 55 Senior Expo. Justin Vick/SCW photo

Rhya Pachin

by Kayla Berenson kayla@cmgweekly.com

THERATOUCH FOOT CARE

Dianne Nguyen

by Justin Vick justin@cmgweekly.com

MATTHEWS – Dianne Nguyen was among many Vietnamese refugees that came to the United States Nguyen by boat after the Vietnam War. Her family originally settled in Pennsylvania in 1980, but she would later raise her own family in California.

Nguyen worked as a pedicurist for 20 years before becoming a nurse. She began focusing on the next phase of her career once her children reached high school.

The family moved to the Charlotte area in 2000.

Nguyen was drawn to nursing because she liked the idea of serving others.

She saw it as a means of giving back.

“Both my husband and I were so grateful after struggling for the first 30 years to survive,” she said. “We look back and we have so many things to be thankful for in this country.”

While working as a registered nurse at the main

campus of Carolinas Medical Center (now Atrium Health), Nguyen saw a need in helping older adults prevent foot or toe amputations. She did some research, became a certified foot care specialist and launched her own business venture two years ago.

Initially, she supplemented her income by working a couple of days a week in the home health industry, but she's grown TheraTouch Foot Care large enough to focus on it full-time.

Nguyen offers routine foot care for older adults, including trimming nails, reducing thick nails, reducing corns and calluses, and monitoring potential problems, such as cracks and corns, that could lead to further complications.

She said reducing foot pain can make a huge difference in someone's life.

Addressing the problem can lead to more active lifestyles and reduce the likelihood of falls, considering foot pain prompts some people to wear loose-fitting shoes.

Clients may have trouble trimming their nails due to hip or knee replacements, as

well as advanced age. Many of her clients are in their 70s and 80s. She has a couple of clients over 100. Some have diabetes and other complications.

People often ask Nguyen about the difference between a podiatrist and a foot-care nurse. She said a podiatrist is a doctor that diagnoses and treats a medical issue, while a foot-care nurse focuses on prevention.

Trimming long or reducing thick toenails can help prevent callouses and sores that lead to even bigger health issues.

Nguyen loves her job, which is something she felt like she couldn't say honestly until recently. She enjoys having the flexibility to set her own hours, plus she finds her work meaningful.

“It's very rewarding because I can help folks coming in with ingrown or thick toenails that cause pain when they're walking,” she said. “I'm able to help them relieve it.”

Want to learn more?

TheraTouch Foot Care is open by appointment only inside Studio 165 Salon and Spa at 165 S. Trade St., Matthews. Call 704-957-5458 or visit www.theratouchfootcare.com for details.

INDIAN LAND – With a bachelor’s degree in biology, Rhya Pachin had her heart set on becoming a doctor. But after seeing how diet and nutrition improved her family's autoimmune and digestive struggles, she found herself drawn to a different career.

Rhya found nutrition to be a powerful, yet often overlooked adjunct to traditional medical care in addressing certain health conditions. She received her master’s degree in human nutrition from Winthrop University, became a registered dietitian nutritionist and opened Carolina Functional Nutrition in Indian Land, where she tackles her patients’ health and nutrition with a functional approach. “‘Functional’ implies that we are using nutrition to get to the root cause of symptoms in a way that works functionally with the body, recognizing that all the different parts and systems work together,” Rhya said. “Treating one condition or one body system is not necessarily going to resolve a bigger or deeper issue, which often stems from more of a systemic inflammation.”

She provides various nutrition services to adults and children. Rhya said she works with her clients to create personalized meal plans based on their goals and health concerns. She also discusses supplements with her patients, pointing out everything they do or do not need and guiding them in how to select high-quality products.

Rhya provides medical nutrition therapy and elimination diets for clients with specific health conditions. Her specialties are gastrointestinal and autoimmune diseases.

One thing that sets Rhya apart as an RDN is Carolina Functional Nutrition’s nutrition-related medical lab services. Rhya uses lab work to assist her patients in identifying and addressing imbalances.

“Sometimes, we need data to be strategic in addressing the root cause of certain symptoms,” Rhya said.

The data is derived from blood tests, urine samples, stool samples, food sensitivity testing and other types of lab tests.

From there, she can truly personalize a plan that will use nutrition to address an issue.

She said many patients come in with a fear of being judged, but she tries to make it a positive experience.

“I always joke that being a dietitian or nutritionist is only second-worst to being

Rhya Pachin uses a functional approach to tackling health issues through nutrition.

Courtesy of Carolina Functional Nutrition

a pastor or a preacher in terms of being misunderstood,” Rhya said. “People come in and feel instantly judged. They feel like they have to confess all of their nutrition woes and regrets and sins to me, and that’s definitely not what it’s about. I really try not to appear to be coming from any place of judgment. We all are on a journey and everyone is in a different place when they come here and I like to make peace with that. I will meet people wherever they are.”

Another misconception some people have about nutrition, Rhya said, is that there are no options beyond prescribed medication when it comes to dealing with their health conditions. She said many of her clients are shocked that they never knew about the options out there.

“Don’t get me wrong, medicine is obviously important and prescriptions can be super helpful, but sometimes there are things in addition that can complement that and I feel like sometimes they’re completely missed,” Rhya said. “My clients tell me they weren’t aware of other options or how powerful nutrition can be in getting to the root cause of their symptoms and resolving an issue instead of just managing it for the rest of their lives.”

Getting to help clients solve a health issue for the rest of their lives and helping the community are Pachin’s favorite parts of her job.

“There is no better feeling than coming to work where I am truly helping people and serving a purpose that’s bigger than myself,” Rhya said. “And seeing people feel better is an amazing process that I feel very privileged to be a part of.”

Want to learn more?

Carolina Functional Nutrition is located at 1040 Edgewater Corporate Pkwy., Suite 106, Indian Land, S.C. Call 704-665-9688 or visit www.carolinafunctionalnutrition. com for details.

South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019 • Page 5B

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MECKLENBURG COUNTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING July 1, 2020 – July 30, 2024 Consolidated Plan July 1, 2020 Annual Action Plan To All Interested Agencies, Groups, and Persons: Mecklenburg County would like your participation in the preparation of the 5-Year Consolidated Plan and 2020 Annual Action Plan (2020AAP). These documents are required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) in order to receive federal assistance to address housing, economic development, and community development issues. Join us and find out how funds may be utilized in the community and offer suggestions for new programs or projects. For Federal Fiscal Year 2020, Mecklenburg County anticipates receiving an allocation of approximately $765,102 in funds from HUD for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

The process of developing these plans gives Mecklenburg County’s communities a structure for identifying gaps and opportunities for collaboration within the County’s current service delivery system. Mecklenburg County encourages residents to become involved in the development of the 5-Year Consolidated Plan and the Annual Action Plan. Your participation is needed to discuss how we can best serve our community.

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The County will hold a public hearing to obtain input on housing and community development needs on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, from 4:00 to 5:00 PM in Room 266 of the Mecklenburg County Government Center located at 600 E. 4th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.

Anyone needing special modifications when attending this meeting, has non English speaking needs and/ or if this information is needed in an alternative format because of a disability, please contact Timmothy Tibbs at Timmothy.Tibbs@mecklenburgcountync.gov. We request at least 72 hours’ notice prior to the meeting to make the appropriate arrangements.

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ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE POSITION FOR OUR NEW PUBLICATION IN UNION COUNTY. PLEASE EMAIL RESUME TO ADRIAN@CMGWEEKLY.COM

Page 6B • South Charlotte Weekly • Dec. 20, 2019

VASCULAR SOLUTIONS

Dr. Peter Ford CHARLOTTE – A large segment of the population with aching, throbbing and tired legs may have no idea they have a common vein condition, known as venous reflux.

People who have bulging varicose veins are usually aware that there may be a problem, but for people without visible veins at the skin surface, it is difficult to recognize that underlying veins problems could be the culprit.

Some common symptoms include painful/aching varicose veins, throbbing, restlessness, tiredness, fatigue, cramping and swelling. Advanced cases can even lead to staining and discoloration of the skin and/or wounds.

“If someone is living with leg symptoms that are anything more than mild or intermittent, they may be living with those symptoms needlessly,” says Dr. Peter Ford, of Vascular Solutions.

Dr. Ford has owned and operated Vascular Solutions, a vein practice located at the Arboretum in south Charlotte (corner of Providence Road & N.C. 51), since 2014. He isn't just a board-certified vascular surgeon, but he's also an expert in the field, having been published in surgical journals and textbooks.

He served as an assistant professor at UNC-Chapel Hill's surgery department and continues to train physicians across the region on advanced procedures.

“He’s the most talented vein surgeon that I’ve ever been around,” says Tim Jonassen, Vascular Solutions’ clinical team supervisor who has worked specifically in the field of Phlebology and vein surgery for the past 20 years and is currently the sitting president the N.C. Vascular Technologists Society. “I have been a director of three vein practices in Florida and North Carolina, have instructed/lectured domestically and internationally, and worked hands-on with many different physicians who perform these types of procedures. Dr Ford is the best of the best.”

With so many different types of physicians performing vein treatments these days, Jonassen believes that seeking the expertise of a vascular surgeon is vital when deciding where to seek treatment.

“When I was directing vein clinics that employed other types of specialists performing these procedures, it would be common for our practice to refer out any difficult cases to other vascular surgeons around Charlotte,” Jonassen said. That struck a chord with me.

Why would people choose someone other than a vascular surgeon to treat their vascular problem? If you have a dermatology prob-

Dr. Peter Ford takes pride in his staff at Vascular Solutions, which includes Physician Assistant Kristin Hartman. Photos courtesy of Vascular Solutions

lem, you would see a dermatologist. Why wouldn’t people carry that thinking over to vein treatment? Why trust your health and well-being with anyone other than a vascular surgeon? They’re the experts!”

It was this type of vast experience in varicose vein treatment that allowed Dr. Ford to come to the forefront of the vascular surgical community when his practice, Vascular Solutions, was awarded the designation as the sole physician training center in the Charlotte area for Medtronic’s vascular division and Dr. Ford as it’s honorary proctor, instructing physicians from all over the world on its state-offthe-art Venaseal Closure System.

“Medtronic is the largest global medical device company in the world and chose Dr. Ford over anyone else in Charlotte. That speaks volumes,” added Jonassen.

Dr. Ford believes that anyone who is experiencing leg symptoms, and anyone who has symptomatic bulging varicose veins are appropriate candidates for getting their leg veins evaluated.

“We typically invite patients with leg symptoms to attend a new-patient consultation,” says Dr. Ford.

The new patient consultation takes about 90 minutes. During the new patient visit, a detailed ultrasound of the leg veins is performed, which allows identification of vein problems, and provides a “road-map” of the vein anatomy.

The provider then reviews the findings including the pros and cons of any procedural options. In addition, they review any requirements that might be required to obtain insurance coverage. Vein procedures are

typically covered by insurance, provided a patient has symptoms and certain findings on the vein ultrasound.

By combining the diagnostic ultrasound and the new patient consultation in one visit, patients leave with a diagnosis and treatment plan.

For people “on the fence” about whether they would benefit from vein treatment Vascular Solutions also offers free “vein screening” visits. These brief (10 minute) screening visits allow the doctor to preliminarily examine your legs, review symptoms and determine whether additional work-up/evaluation is appropriate.

“There are millions of people who have vein problems,” Dr. Ford said. “With leg vein problems being so prevalent in society – often under-diagnosed and under-treated – there's a lot of opportunity for me to help people.”

Employee Spotlight: Kristin Hartman, PA-C Kristin is a Physician Assistant at Vascular Solutions, assisting Dr. Peter Ford with day-to-day patient care, including sclerotherapy treatment on our patients.

She says that is what she loves most about being a P.A. “I enjoy the rewarding feeling from diagnosing and then providing treatments that help make her patients feel better,” she said. “That's what makes me smile and excites me about coming to work in the morning, as well as our awesome co-workers and flexible bosses!”

Kristin is married and a mom to three active boys who keep her busy cheering from the stands during a myriad of different sporting events that each one participates in, often requiring her and her husband to travel all the country when duty calls. She lives by the quote: “The glass is half-full.”

“I try and look at things in a positive light and find the good in every situation,” she said.

Reminders of home Photography displayed throughout Vascular Solutions offers subtle hints of Dr. Peter Ford's roots in Melbourne, Australia.

Practice Manager Katie Ford incorporated the aboriginal symbol for “journey” into the company's logo to reflect her husband's path toward becoming a vascular surgeon.

The dots reflect his medical training at Monash University School of Medicine in Melbourne, Australia, his residency at the State University of New York-Buffalo, his fellowship at UNC-Chapel Hill and his practice in Charlotte.

Want to learn more?

Vascular Solutions is located at 7800 Providence Road, Charlotte. Call 704-5447535 or visit www.vasc-solutions.com.

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