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e v di in!
pg. 14
G E T TO DON'T FOR
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yourself
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on
pg. 56
IT'S TIME TO VOTE!
Help pick the cutest pet in LKN! pg. 42
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JULY 2018 |
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Q PA I D A DV E RT I S E M E N T
a Q & A on Women’s Pelvic Health
BY DR. JOHN HETTIARACHCHI
ASK THE EXPERT: Q: I
want my MOJO back! Dr. Hettiarachchi, can you help me do something about the vaginal looseness I’m experiencing?
CO2 laser that takes five minutes to perform. Our clinic was the first in Charlotte to use this treatment and has the most experience in providing this vaginal laser therapy to revitalize vaginal tissue back to premenopausal age.
A: I
can! In fact, we offer a number of treatments that can help with vaginal looseness and the loss of sensation during intimacy that can accompany it. Most patients start with Kegel exercises to help strengthen the pelvic muscles. Unfortunately, though, Kegels don’t work for every woman. Our office is currently working with an effective, non-surgical option called Geneveve™ that helps to rebuild the collagen and elastic tissue in the vaginal canal. I’ve recently traveled to Hong Kong and seen its effectiveness there, but it has been used in other places around the world such as Asia, Europe, and South America for many years with great results. Geneveve™ is a unique treatment with a combination cryo (cooling) application on the surface and deep radiofrequency technology that helps stimulate an increase in collagen production along the vaginal opening, which helps tighten the area. It has been shown in studies to restore sexual arousal and sensation. Another groundbreaking technology to treat vaginal atrophy and painful intercourse is the MonaLisa Touch®, which is a fractional
There are additional options as well. We also use ThermiVA™ to revitalize the vaginal lining and increase lubrication, making intercourse more pleasurable. ThermiVA™ is also a radiofrequency technology and takes approximately 30 minutes. The Orgasm Shot®, or O-Shot®, procedure is a very specific method of using blood-derived growth factors to rejuvenate the vagina to help relieve women with urinary incontinence and sex problems. We inject the patients’ own special blood products into the clitoris and G-spot to enhance the orgasm. We have combined the O-Shot® with the other vaginal therapy options to restore sexual wellness. Patients choose us for their care because we offer multiple technologies, and each patient’s care is individualized to meet that person’s needs. In addition, my experience as a urologist and reconstructive surgeon specializing in female pelvic medicine is unsurpassed in this region. Moreover, it is the mission of our entire team to make each person feel welcome, comfortable, and cared for. Our patients are saying such things as, “I’m having sex like I’m 20 again!” In other words, their mojo is back! Now what about you? Move over, Viagra, and let’s work on getting your mojo back, too!
Dr. John Hettiarachchi, Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, is board certified in Urology and Urological Surgery and subspecialty certified in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery. The Charlotte Center for Pelvic Health is the first and only pelvic specialty practice in the Charlotte region offering multiple cutting-edge non-hormonal, non-surgical therapies.
ThePelvicCenter.com
704-775-8464
19901 W. Catawba Ave., Suite 201, Cornelius
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.
STAFF
.
PUBLISHER DANA NIETERS
dana@lakenormanwoman.com
EDITOR LESLIE OGLE
leslie@lakenormanwoman.com
L A K E
V O L U M E
stephanie@lakenormanwoman.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE MICHELE SCHUERMANN michele@lakenormanwoman.com
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JESSICA JONES
jessica@lakenormanwoman.com
ART DIRECTOR CHELSEA BREN
chelsea@lakenormanwoman.com
DISTRIBUTION MANAGED BY CAROLINA CONSULT, LLC
J U LY C O N T R I B U T O R S :
Sona Aquino; Elizabeth Chaney; Dr. Trish Gibson; Dr. Stephen Giordano; Antionette Kerr; Michelle Love; Starr Miller; Amy Davis Rubacky; Kathi Wilson
C O N TAC T U S : PO Box 1000 | Cornelius, NC | 28031
704.895.6168
WWW.LAKENORMANWOMAN.COM
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Lake Norman Woman reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Lake Norman Woman standards. Submissions are welcome but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Lake Norman Woman assumes no responsibility for information, products, services, or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. An advertised special printed in this publication is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.
X I I
woman
,
N U M B E R
from
THE PUBLISHER
is encouraged in us from a very young age. I’m sure I’m not the only one who grew up with constant warnings about ever-present dangers that exist in our society such as talking to strangers, running with scissors, not having a quarter stitched into your bra in case you get abducted and need to call home (do kidnappers let you stop and use the pay phone?), and swimming before you’ve allowed your food to digest for at least 30 minutes. There are plenty of reasons for adults to be cautious too; it’s a scary world out there, especially today—identity theft, geopolitical tensions, terrorism…heck, the return of Zima scares the bejeebers out of me. CAUTION
SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE STEPHANIE SULLIVAN
N O R M A N
Chalk it up to the childhood warnings or our scary world or a combination of both, but I admit that I have become a very cautious person. When it comes to diving on in, I not only look before I leap, I research, I mull it over, and then I test the waters by dipping a toe in first. Last week, I crossed a busy street in Chapel Hill, not at the crosswalk and not even at the corner, but right in the middle of the road— and that was the most reckless act I’ve committed in quite some time. I know, I can hear your yawns from here. But, the laws of natural selection reward the cautious, don’t they? Is it not people who evaluate a situation and weigh the risks before proceeding who survive to perpetuate their genetic lineage rather than the ones who dive on in willy nilly, oblivious to the dangers? I feel certain Mr. Darwin himself would agree.
So why do I have so much trouble exercising that same prudence when it comes to keeping a quiet mouth? In the heat of a tense moment, I dive right in and express aloud thoughts that are better left unexpressed. For some inexplicable reason, it is at that instant that my restraint chooses to fly right out of the window, along with the proverbial sock I could use just then to stuff in my yapper. My foot, however, is quite easy to locate, as it inevitably ends up in my mouth. Also readily available is hot water, which I find myself treading in and thinking, “Ugh! I really wish I hadn’t said that.” Holding your tongue is not a new concept; wise folks have been recommending it for centuries. Mark Twain said, “It is better to keep your mouth shut and appear stupid than to open it and remove all doubt.” Dwight Eisenhower suggested one should never miss a good opportunity to keep their mouth shut. And dating all the way back to the first century, the Epistle of James advised us to be quick to listen and slow to speak. I don’t know about you, but I find this truth so difficult to execute. I am going to try, though. I’m going to pray for help, too… perhaps God will not only put an arm around my shoulder but will also place His hand over my mouth.
Dana DANA NIETERS PUBLISHER
Contac t Dana via e -mail at dana@lakenormanwoman.com
I
George Mason Mortgage...
....is the right choice for: Home Buying Building Renovating Refinancing
Need to close quickly...no problem! SUZANNE BLACKWELL Branch Manager/Loan Originator NMLS# 788532 108 Gateway Boulevard, Suite 102 Mooresville, NC 28117 Phone: (704) 235-0895 Cell: (704) 746-5676 sblackwell@gmmllc.com
20 years experience.
www.gmmllc.com/sblackwell ADVERTISING NOTICE – NOT A COMMITMENT TO LEND – SUBJECT TO PROGRAM AVAILABILITY. This is not a commitment to lend. All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. Annual Percentage Rate (APR), programs, rates, fees, closing costs, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice and may vary depending upon credit history and transaction specifics. Other closing costs may be necessary. Flood and/or property hazard insurance may be required. To be eligible, buyer must meet minimum down payment, underwriting and program guidelines.
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THREE LAKE NORMAN WOMEN HELPING THEIR COMMUNITY
CLOCKWISE:
Dr. Trish Gibson, Amy Rubacky, & Kathi Wilson
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FEATURES
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HERE SHE IS: Dr. Lori Schneider
18
SHE'S MY HERO: Madison Slater
22
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF: Lori Savio
28
WOMAN TO WATCH: Stephanie Nieuwendijk-Bramble
32
COVER STORY: Mooresville Native Dives On In To Her True Calling
46
LEADING THE WAY: Denise Curtis, P.A.
50
SUCCESS STORY: Getting The Help You Need In Your Community
54
SUCCESS STORY: It's Never Too Late
{
Dutchmans Casual Living Stores
Photo: Toni Lovejoy
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STEPHANIE NIEUWENDIJK-BRAMBLE
14
J U LY 2 0 1 8
O N THE C OVER: NANCY H UC KS O F L AKE N O RM A N REA LT Y PH OTO G R A PH Y BY: CH E LS EA BRE N
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CORRINE LEWIS EverVitalMD
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THE SPIN ON SKIN
p
46
DENISE CURTIS
More Than Faces Medical Spa
FAMILY 16 Dive On In To Senior Care
48
Making Outdoor Play Safe And Fun!
52
Bullying And Boundaries
Photo: Lisa Crates
BEAUTY 26 The Spin On Skin
12
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FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT THE UNITED STATES
HOME 24 It's Our Anniversary!
SELF 12 8 THINGS: Fascinating Facts About The United States
56
MIND, BODY, SPIRIT: Checking In
in every issue 36 38 40
WOMEN ON T H E MOV E
5 THI N G S TO D O F OR J U LY 4T H
S C E N E W I TH LK NW
44
MEMOR AB LE MOMENT S
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DR. LORI SCHNEIDER Lakeside Neurology
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8
things
}
One out of every eight Americans has been employed by McDonald’s at some point.
8 INTERESTING MILESTONES, EVENTS, SCOOPS, TRIFLES, OR JUST COOL STUFF.
John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both died on July 4, 1826, 50 years to the day after the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
fascinating facts
The number of bourbon barrels in Kentucky outnumbers the state’s population by more than two million.
The word “Pensylvania” is misspelled on the Liberty Bell.
United States ABOUT THE
More people live in New York City than in 40 of the 50 states.
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About 35 million Americans share DNA with at least one of the Mayflower pilgrims.
Twenty-seven percent of Americans believe we never landed on the moon Montana has three times as many cows as it does people.
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{ H E R E she
IS}
AN LKN WOMAN WHO PERSONIFIES WHAT MAKES LAKE NORMAN WOMEN SO GREAT
Who inspired you to become a physician? From
the time I was 6 years old, I would tell everyone that I was going to be a psychiatrist because I was impressed by Lucy (of The Peanuts) who was always giving her friends psychiatric advice for 5 cents. It wasn’t until I was doing my clinical rotations in medical school that I became fascinated by the field of neurology. It’s a lot like being a medical detective!
i am an LKNw oman because…
“I have called Lake Norman home since 1994. My husband and I take very seriously the challenge of delivering high-quality, personalized medical care to this community that we love so much.”
What brought you to the Lake Norman area?
I have never liked the cold winters in New York. I knew that once my medical training was finished, I would move to a warmer climate. My husband and I always wanted to live on the water. In 1994 after some colleagues told us about the area, we came down to visit and never looked anywhere else!
dr. lori
SCHNEIDER
H O M E TO W N : N E W YO R K , N Y
LAKE NORMAN HOME: CORNELIUS
HOUSEHOLD:
HUSBAND DR. JP RIOU; DA U G H T E R J E S S I C A ( 2 1 ) AND SON JUSTIN (16) C AT S : J E S S E A N D J A S M I N E
What is your advice for women? I would encourage
women to make sure that they find time to take care of themselves and to find harmony between family and work. So often women run themselves ragged at home and at work, which often results in compromising their own health. If you take care of yourself, you will have so much more to give to others.
What has been your most life-altering event? By
far, the birth of our daughter! No one can prepare you for the demands and rewards of parenthood. It is impossible to imagine that you can love someone so much, and how an amazing tiny human being changes what is important in your life so suddenly and completely. Five years later, we adopted our son from South Korea … and then we knew that our family was complete.
Lori Schneider, MD, is a board-certified neurologist who offers her patients a more natural way to achieve good health. Dr. Schneider founded Lakeside Neurology in 1994, which is located at 19615 Liverpool Pkwy., Suite A, in Cornelius. Dr. Schneider may be reached at 704.896.5591.You can visit her website at www.drlorischneider.com and her webstore at www.drlorischneiderstore.com.
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By: Michelle Love | Photography By: Chelsea Bren
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family
senior DIVE ON IN TO
CARE By: Sona Aquino
If you have an aging loved one who lives alone, it’s important to be proactive when you visit. Look for signs their quality of life isn’t what it should be by using this helpful guide— Consistent weight loss with no underlying medical condition Makes repeated errors with medication EMS dispatched on more than one occasion Too confused to call for help Increased instances of illness or recent hospitalizations Signs of dehydration or malnutrition Refuses visits from family members to conceal deterioration Medicine cabinet contains many expired medications Unable to prepare themselves nutritious meals While normally outgoing, has become socially withdrawn Doesn’t recall how they arrived at destination when driving
A C C O R D I N G TO T H E P O P U L AT I O N R E F E R E N C E B U R E A U,
Automobile in disrepair
“the number of Americans ages 65 and older is projected to more than double from 46 million today to over 98 million by 2060, and the 65-andolder age group’s share of the total population will rise to nearly 24 percent from 15 percent.” As a result, our aging parents and loved ones may need our assistance for many, many years.
Thermostat set at extreme temperatures
Learn as much as you can about your family member’s condition and any treatment. This can help you understand what is going on, anticipate the course of an illness, prevent crises, and assist in healthcare management. It can also make talking with their doctors easier.
Frequently loses items
Get written permission, as needed under the HIPAA Privacy Rule (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), to receive medical and financial information—and compile a notebook, on paper or online, that includes all the vital information about medical care, social services, contact numbers, financial issues, etc.
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Deterioration in hygiene Bills left unpaid
Hoarding
Sona Aquino is the director of sales and marketing at Summit Place of Mooresville located at 128 Brawley School Road. They can be reached at 704.799.2712 or by visiting www.SummitPlaceOfMooresville.com.
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SHE’S MY HERO:
madison slater
NOMINATED BY:
John Stengel, Madison’s employer & owner of JSCM
REASON FOR NOMINATION:
"As a successful woman in a male-dominated industry, Madison is a shining example of intelligence, hard work, and unfettered determination!"
She is inspirational.
She’s a rock star in cyber security.
“Madison is not only a leader at JSCM Group, but in our entire industry. She delivers presentations regarding best practices, produces a monthly webinar, and has trained more people on the WatchGuard firewall product than anyone else in the world.”
She beat the odds.
“IT is a field dominated by men. According to the World Economic Forum, women make up only 24% of all technology professionals—they only make up 11% of professionals in cyber security.”
She gets things moving.
“JSCM Group would not be where we are without Madison; she has been instrumental to its growth. Since she began in 2013, JSCM has doubled in size and relocated to Huntersville in order to continue its expansion.”
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WHO’S YOUR HERO?
“Madison has led her team at JSCM to continually improve by encouraging them to find new ways to top their previous accomplishments. Everyone on her team hones their skills and knowledge as a direct result of her support and training.”
If you have an LKNWoman hero in your life, tell us all about her. Email Dana at dana@lakenormanwoman.com with My Hero in the subject line.
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a
in da y
t h e lif e o
f…
Lori savio Interior Designer & Owner of The Shoppes at Home, Heart & Soul
WHAT’S IN A NAME? I have had my own design business for over 35 years, but I opened Home, Heart & Soul in February 2016. Coming up with a name was simple: As a designer, I’ve been putting my heart and soul into all my clients’ homes for decades. I wanted a place for women to gather, encourage, and support one another. Also, to simplify things, I am rebranding my design business to Home, Heart & Soul Designs.
THINGS TO COME I am adding licensed general contractor Lindsay Foess of Montrose Construction to my team. Having the addition of Lindsey allows me the opportunity to offer our clients turnkey project management and renovations. I am really excited about this new venture! MAYBE YOU CAN PLEASE THEM ALL The store gives me a chance to connect with and help so many people, be it with advice, quality products and services to create a home they desire, or as a wonderful place to find a special gift, an amazing outfit, or accessories. We have something for everyone!
THE GREATEST AWARD(S) OF ALL The accomplishment I’m most proud of in my life is my son, Mario, and the man he is becoming. Second to that, I was humbled and honored to be awarded the “Top Woman in Business” in the Lake Norman area in 2017 by Cornelius Today.
IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY My mother has such strength and has been there for me, especially at the worst times of my life. My brother, Greg, who battled cancer, exhibits the true meaning of strength and resilience. I, too, have been determined to show Mario the strength and resilience I have and that we can overcome anything with love and support of each other.
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BEACH IN HER SOUL
Growing up in south Florida, my favorite time during the summer is when I’ve got sand between my toes. I love the beach and water!
Collaborate.Create.Captivate starrmiller.com | 704.896.3321 JULY 2018 |
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it’s our anniversary! S TA R R M I L L E R ' S 5 0 T H C O L U M N I N L K N W !
gave me the opportunity to write a column about home design. (Please note: I never considered myself a writer. On the SATs, I did better in mathematics than English.) But I took the plunge and found that this was the start of a great new adventure.
I N F E B R UA R Y 2 0 0 9 , L A K E N O R M A N W O M A N
Ten years later, and this is my 50th column. To commemorate this milestone, I thought I would provide a compilation of design considerations in the arrangement of anniversary gifts.
1ST YEAR: Wallpaper. I have written over and over about wallpaper through the years. Every week we get new samples into our studio for our clients, and they just get better and better. Wallpaper transforms a room, adds texture and depth to the overall design, and gives a room a sense of grounding and focus.
PAPER –
5TH YEAR:
WOOD –
Wood floors have moved on from the honey, orangey yellow of the 1990s. Do not, however, opt for a super dark floor unless you enjoy cleaning them. They show everything! Instead consider a medium-tone balance between warmth (red/ yellow) and the cooler walnut. In home furnishings, red cherry screams 1990s, and really dark finishes tell us that you like imports.
15TH YEAR:
CRYSTAL –
Do not keep your crystal tucked away never to be used. There is nothing like coming home from a hard day of work and having a cocktail in a glittering crystal wine glass.
50 ARTICLES and a MILLION THANKS to Starr Miller! Happy Anniversary, Starr!
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20TH YEAR:
CHINA –
The same with your fine china. Use it. Mix it up. Invite a few over for a wonderful evening meal or brunch with the girls. The elegance of life should not be thrown aside for easy clean up.
10TH YEAR:
TIN/ALUMINUM –
Let’s just call this metal. Yes, while I do not practice Feng Shui, the basic need to balance a space with a variety of elements is a basic design principle.
25TH YEAR:
SILVER –
Okay this is where I might not be the best advocate for the upkeep of silver. Yes, please use your sterling flatware and use it often. However, I must admit that polishing the hollowware is tedious. I have no advice except that if you keep your silver hollowware out on display, you have made the commitment to polish it, so get to it!
30TH YEAR:
PEARL –
To balance the natural woods we are seeing all over the design world, a shimmer of pearlescent is a luxurious addition. Try it in a pillow, small accessory, lamp, or tile backsplash.
35TH YEAR:
CORAL –
One of the best color paints to use in an exercise room, a lady’s dressing area, a powder room, or even a creative space. The reflection on the skin is kind and warm. We all need that in our lives. If you are like me and tend to the winter colors, make sure it is more to the cool, pink side of coral … if you look best in spring colors, you may push the orange and yellow edge of coral.
40TH YEAR: RUBY – Red has always been a wonderful color used in interiors. In the last century, it was a go-to dining room color. Today, a red-lacquered piece of furniture, red nail head, or red lamps can really bring a pop to a room design.
45TH YEAR:
SAPPHIRE –
Blue remains the favorite color of most clients. Whether it is a clear, strong blue, a pastel blue, a grey/blue, or a blue/green, we find ourselves in the studio answering this need in the world. Ten years ago, everyone wanted teal, now we are in a cornflower blue state of mind. It all works! Blue calms and makes us all happy, end of story.
50TH YEAR:
GOLD –
I love it when I hear, “I don’t want to use gold because it is just going to go out of style again.” This is true; however, every other finish will rise and fall the same way. We tire of seeing the same ol’ thing and after about a 10-year run, we want what we haven’t seen in a while. To push this, the industries that drive home goods, paint, and fabric for your home plan ahead in order to show you the new and fresh, so that what you hang onto feels obsolete, and you crave the new and the forgotten. Think about jewelry and how you see the finishes change in the same way. You do too!
Happy Anniversary to all of you home enthusiasts! Let me know what you would like to read about in upcoming articles at smid.starrmiller@gmail.com
Starr Miller is the president and principal designer at StarrMiller Interior Design, Inc. Contact her at 704.896.3321 or visit www.starrmiller.com.
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beauty the spin on
SKIN! S N!!
KEEPIN G YOUR S KIN HEALTH Y THIS SUMMER
By: Dr. Stephen Giordano
it is time to start enjoying the long, sunny days and take advantage of this beautiful area we call home. Especially living in a culture that celebrates the lake life, it is particularly important to protect our skin. So with that in mind, let’s look at some helpful habits that can keep your skin healthy and glowing. WITH SUMMER UPON US,
The second step to healthy skin is frequent and effective EXFOLIATION. Many people think that exfoliation is only something that should be done on the face, but in actuality this could be done on the entire body. This helps with skin turnover and helps remove debris from the skin surface—keeping the skin glowing and healthy. HydrafacialMD microdermabrasion is excellent not only for exfoliating on a medicalgrade level, but also to infuse dermal builders and antioxidants into the skin simultaneously. Our go-to device, HydrafacialMD is an industry leader and does not disappoint. One of the most popular procedures in aesthetics, it comes at an affordable price, and it is recommended that you do this at least once every two to three months for best results.
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HYDRATION is also a critical key in maintaining healthy skin during summer months when heat in the Carolinas can be a substantial issue. Drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water throughout the day is always recommended, and topical hydration serums will also protect the skin and lend a healthy appearance. All this being said, even the most stringent precautions will still yield some SUN DAMAGE. Consider seeing a qualified provider for a Broad Band Light (BBL) treatment to physically remove the sun damage from the surface of your skin. This technique is quick, easy, and without downtime. When paired with a very light laser peel, you can return your skin to its presummer glory, and keep it glowing until the next summer season is upon us!
Dr. Stephen Giordano, DO, is a board-certified physician with Carolina Age Management Institute, located at 8712 Lindholm Drive, #302, in Huntersville. For more information, call 704.997.6530 or visit their website at www.carolinaagemanagement.com.
Photo by nensuria / Freepik
Not all SUNSCREEN is created equal, so we recommend that you use a sunscreen that has not only a chemical barrier, but also a physical barrier such as zinc oxide or titanium oxide. During the brutally hot summer months when you are exposed to high levels of UV rays, be sure you have a broad-based UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher.
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stephanie -
NIEUWENDIJK BRAMBLE L K N W R E C O G N I Z E S A W O M A N D O I N G E X C E P T I O N A L W O R K I N T H E L A K E N O R M A N C O M M U N I T Y, A L E A D E R W H O I S PAV I N G T H E WAY T O C H A N G I N G O U R AT T I T U D E S A N D I N S P I R I N G C O N F I D E N C E I N T H E F U T U R E .
on
DIVING ON IN: I arrived in America from Australia with $500 and, as cliché as it may sound, if you work hard in this amazing country you will be successful. I started in floral design and wedding event planning but needed a storefront, so I started selling gifts, home accessories, etc. I made sideboards, coffee tables, and other items from old stained glass windows … I created floral arrangements in between weddings and stayed extremely busy and determined. I’ve loved flowers and design since I was little, so my destiny was already planned. My career chose me and I love it!
on FINDING YOUR JOIE DE VIVRE:
I try to do Pilates every week; it helps me stay strong and focused as my work can be quite physically demanding at times. I also really love just playing in my stores after hours—creating new rooms and new looks makes me happy. And nothing pleases me more than creating beautiful displays, installations, rooms, and whole homes that take your breath away … seeing a customer’s ecstatic reaction fills me with indescribable joy.
on
MAKING A SPLASH: One of my first big projects was with a client who was very particular as to what she liked and wanted … we worked together for months to get it just right. My stress levels had been so high but when it finally all came together, the outcome was stunning. The client wrote me a six-page letter of gratitude stating how much she appreciated my design, hard work, and determination.
on
Stephanie NieuwendijkBramble Dutchmans Casual Living Stores CORNELIUS, NC
By: Leslie Ogle | Photography By: Toni Lovejoy
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BEING TRUE TO YOURSELF: I’ve come a long way since that first project and have learned so much. Having four stores (and everything that comes with that) can get overwhelming at times, so I try to compartmentalize and breathe. I am focused, disciplined, and organized … I can’t work any other way. When I go to my stores and remember to take it all in, at the end of the day, I’m pretty proud of my accomplishments. My parents taught me well, and I am grateful each and every day. Stephanie Nieuwendijk-Bramble is the owner and creative designer at Dutchmans Casual Living Stores in Cornelius.They are located at 19441 Old Jetton Road and can be reach at 704.896.0007 or via their website at www.dutchmansdesigns.com.
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Mooresville Native Dives On In To Her …
AS A LIFELONG RESIDENT OF MOORESVILLE, NANCY HUCKS WALKED ALONG THE SHORELINE OF A COMMUNITY TRANSFORMING. “I CAN REMEMBER WALKING DOWN TO THE LAKE WITH MY FATHER,” SHE SAYS OF THE TIME BETWEEN 1959 AND 1964 WHEN PORTIONS OF THE COMMUNITY WERE FLOODED FOR LAKE CONSTRUCTION. “WE WATCHED THE PROGRESS ALL THOSE YEARS AGO. I STILL CONSIDER MOORESVILLE A SMALL TOWN BUT IT’S GROWN SO MUCH BECAUSE LAKE NORMAN PUT US ON THE MAP.”
By: Antionette G. Kerr Photography By: Chelsea Bren
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Nancy’s love of her community and the South in general is evident in the two cookbooks she has authored: A Southern Lady Cooks (recipes collected from her mother, family, and friends), and A Southern Cottage Kitchen (a book of southern recipes, which includes the story of Nancy’s childhood and growing up in Mooresville).
i listen to people. i laugh with people.
"
"
Cooking and being an integral part of the community were imparted from her parents, the late Claude and Dora Blaine Little, who owned a series of local restaurants between 1953 and 1984. They taught Nancy the lay of the land with ventures such as The Little Kitchen, The Little Spaghetti House, and Little’s at the Beach. Nancy credits the duo with her solid work ethic: “We were in the restaurant business, so when my friends were going to ball games on Friday nights, I had to work; when the girls were going shopping on Saturdays, I had to go to work.” Although working restaurant hours frustrated Nancy at the time, she admits it fueled her drive. Upon graduating from Mooresville High School, Nancy attended UNC Charlotte and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a minor in sociology and psychology. She married, started a family, and as an only child, found herself being drafted into the family business. “I didn’t really discover what I wanted to be, so I went back because I hadn’t found my calling.” The 1980s were a complicated time for Nancy. She continued supporting her parents’ passion until they retired to Myrtle Beach in 1984. Around that
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southern charm ... seasoned sophistication
But something was missing. “My parents had asked me to return to the restaurant business and the thought made me physically sick. I went back, but I did not like it. In 2001, Mark Green, a real estate broker, came up and said, ‘you know so many people … you should be in real estate!’” Nancy was ambivalent at first, but she took the course and soon realized it was a perfect fit for her. “I immediately recognized that this was my true calling … even though I was in my late fifties.” After a lot of hard work, Nancy became a sought-after realtor in the Lake Norman area. “I fell in love with real estate and meeting all kinds of different people,” she says. “She joined a dynamic team at Lake Norman Realty in 2011. Although Nancy is ranked as one of the firm’s top producers, she counts her success differently: “I listen to people. I laugh with people.”
time, she struggled through a painful rift in her marriage which would eventually lead to divorce. Nancy and her daughter, Ashley, 14 at the time, left the area and moved to Myrtle Beach. “My life went in an entirely new direction,” Nancy shares. “Because of the divorce, I lost everything I had; I did not fight for myself. I quickly realized I was going to have to work hard and do the best I could to get back on my feet—for myself and my daughter! The Lord gave me a little bit of an interior design ability and I knew a lot of people living in small-town Mooresville, so that was my next plan of action. While her parents wondered if she could “make it,” Nancy did well for herself by working across the Carolinas in furniture sales and later as an interior designer for various Myrtle Beach condos. It was during that time she met Cliff Hucks through church friends. The two fell in love, married in 1985, and returned to the growing community that Nancy called home.
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Nancy also views her role as being there to help others. “I’m a strong Christian and I believe I finally found what I was born to do,” she says. “Some realtors would not be willing to work with people if they didn’t have money, but I have helped folks who couldn’t afford a home find one … I will help anybody willing to work and work with me. I am proud of that. My mother and daddy taught me to have compassion for everyone.” Occasionally, Nancy and Cliff find time to travel when he isn’t busy with their company, Kathryn’s Cottage. The family company features homemade spreads and dressings and pays homage to Nancy’s family recipes. “The name Kathryn is a family name from my grandmother,” she says, “and the taste comes totally from my precious mother.” Nancy embraces long hours and doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. She shares her story proudly with all who will listen with the hope that her success will inspire others to “find something in life you really care about doing.”
women on the
move
KRISTY SERDINSKY,
owner of Massage Heights--Jetton Village, recently started her new foundation HOPE (Hour of Peace & Elevation). They offer free massage and facial services to women who are going through a crisis or emotionally-trying times such as caring for their ill child. They partner with local organizations and foundations who work directly with these women and their families to identify those in need of their services; they are currently working toward obtaining their official non-profit status. KATHY HOLDEN, co-owner
of Home Helpers of Lake Norman, recently received the 2018 Best of Home Care Provider of Choice Award from Home Care Pulse. They also received a Normy Award for “Best Senior Care” from Lake Norman Publications at their Annual Reader’s Choice Awards in May. ALLISON COWHERD,
president of the Pounding For Parker Foundation, recently presented Dr. Chad Jacobsen and Dr. David Gass of the Levine Children’s Hospital Neuro-oncology Clinic $100,000 to help fund the brain tumor survivorship clinic. DR. ADELINA EMMI recently
joined REACH (Reproductive Endocrinology Associates of Charlotte). With more than 20 years of clinical experience in the field of infertility, Dr. Emmi was previously the medical director at Sher Fertility in Central Illinois and made the move to North Carolina to be closer to family.
CONNECT Whether you are a woman on the move, looking WITH US! for events, new businesses in the area, or are willing to contribute your opinion, follow us by visiting www.facebook.com/lakenormanwoman or e-mail leslie@lakenormanwoman.com.
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calendar
special 4
TH
OF JULY E D I T I O N !
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5 INDEPENDENCE DAY THINGS FOR AN LKN OMAN TO DO
1
2
U.S. NATIONAL WHITEWATER CENTER 3pm; 5000 Whitewater Center Pkwy., Charlotte
Tuesday & Wednesday, July 3-4!
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A two-day celebration with outdoor adventure, live music, and spectacular firework displays at 9:30 each night. Bring blankets and chairs.
BIRKDALE VILLAGE
10am; 16725 Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville
This free event includes bike decorating, face painting, bounce houses, bike rodeo, and a fire department water fight.
3
BB&T BALL PARK
2pm; 324 S Mint St., Charlotte
Eat and drink your way through the Street Party as you celebrate our nation’s independence with live music, kids’ activities, and the largest fireworks display in the Southeast.
5
DOWNTOWN DAVIDSON 5:30pm; Main Street, Davidson
Wear your red, white, and blue, decorate your bikes, wagons, and pets, and march in the parade down Main Street! Lineup will begin at 5:15pm at Davidson Elementary School parking lot.
CAROWINDS
9:30pm; 300 Carowinds Blvd., Charlotte
Carowinds’ biggest fireworks show of the season lights up the sky in celebration of the birth of America.
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Scene
WITH
BE SCENE
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LKNW’s Michele with Tyka Calloway, owner of Purely Wrapped, at the Charles Mack Citizen Center community health fair in March
Employees from Dudley Chiropractic & Acupuncture with LKNW’s Jessica at the Charles Mack Citizen Center community health fair in March
LAKE NORMAN WOMAN is getting out and about each month, looking for great events and the fabulous and exciting Lake Norman people who are making them happen! So next time you’re at a chamber event, a new business in the area, or just out having fun, look for Lake Norman Woman and our camera. Who knows, you just might find yourself in next month’s
North Mecklenburg Woman’s Club donates $86,000 to local charities at their Impact Celebration in May
“SCENE WITH LAKE NORMAN WOMAN!”
View more
Scene photos
on our Facebook page at: Lake Norman Woman
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LKNW’s Jessica with Lou Mintzer and Terry Snyder from Operation North State at the Charles Mack Citizen Center community health fair in March
Author of Walking the Heart Path, Sharon Reed, with LKNW’s Michele at Home, Heart & Soul in Cornelius
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DO YOU HAVE THE CUTEST PET EVER? Would you like to see your pet featured in our September issue? Enter today and make your cutie a star!
the
ever
N K L t s e t cu
PET
WWW.LAKENORMANWOMAN.COM
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/LAKENORMANWOMAN
EIVES A WINNERzeRBEasCket & gets their
Pet Goodie Pri e of eptember issu photo in the S ine. az Woman Mag Lake Norman
TO ENTER:
Go to www.lakenormanwoman.com, click on “Cutest Pet Contest," & upload photo and entry (deadline July 13)
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TO VOTE:
Go to our FB page (www.facebook.com/ lakenormanwoman) between July 16 and July 23 & LIKE the pet you think is the cutest. The pet with the most likes wins!
Join Us
for our miraDry event: Friday, August 3, 2018 3:00 pm See a miraDry demo Receive a mini-consult Book your future treatment and SAVE $450 with special event-only pricing! Please call to RSVP and visit our website for more information.
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SE A G N O7 S DI 1 C A S Ei n c e 2 0 S
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MO
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2048
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IN CANC E SK R
STO P
Don’t Sweat It.
V ILL
E D ER M A T O
LO
Naomi Simon, MD • Scott Paviol, MD Board Certified Dermatologists
Kristin Prochaska, PA-C • Lauren Wilson, PA-C Certified Physician Assistants
128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117
704.235.1827 www.MooresvilleDermCenter.com
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Kim McBee “dove on in” for our cover shoot in July 2014.
memorable moments
At LKNW LKNW, we believe that we all have a story to tell and that we can all learn from one another. Here are some of our most inspiring moments from women we featured in past issues— because optimism, hopefulness, and encouragement are timeless!
TA M M Y MUR PH I SHA RE D WIT H LK N W R EADER S HOW SH E TOOK A LEAP OF FAIT H T O QUIT H ER 9-5 O B TO BECOME J OB A B U SINESS OW NER AND EN TREP RENEUR .
JULY 2014
“My friends and family say I’m the most adventurous and active girl they know.”
JULY 2015
JULY 2016 MICHELE PULASKI
“We love them, we hate them…we will never stop wearing them.” Excerpt from July 2013 article on how to rock your stiletto heels. JULY 2013
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Emily Joy, LKN’s own “The Biggest Loser” contestant, shows off her 102-pound weight loss for LKNW readers. JULY 2012
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L K N W F E AT U R E
Leading The Way As we rise into leadership roles, it’s not always easy to navigate the leadership path. After all, there are as many leadership traits as there are leaders. LKN Woman talks to area leaders in the hope that we can learn from each other’s successes and failures in confronting leadership challenges. DENISE CURTIS, P.A., owner of More Than Faces Medical Spa; Vice President, Executive Women of Lake Norman
When it comes to leadership, Denise Curtis is a lot like a master gardener. Just as the gardener must carefully and thoughtfully cultivate a nurturing environment in order for his seeds to germinate and sprout, Denise knows that the best leaders plant their people in an environment conducive to their growth, too. And like the gardener who still has much work to do once the shoot has broken through the ground and formed leaves, she understands that it is only with support and the right resources that team members will flourish and achieve their best. Says Denise: “A good leader pushes their team members just enough to help them grow.”
HER DEF I NITION OF LEADERSHIP:
"
Leadership is the ability to provide an environment in which team members can focus on their strengths and improve their weaknesses in order to achieve a vision.
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FIRST JOB:
Phlebotomist FIRST LEADERSHIP POSITION:
Executive board member of the North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
CAREER HIGHLIGHT:
Owning my own practice!
WHAT YOU ENJOY MOST IN YOUR DOWNTIME:
Family and boat time
That push, though, Denise clarifies, should be tempered with patience and compassion. After all, like the gardener who provides the perfect growing conditions but whose plants wilt under unforeseen challenges, Denise practices a leadership style that is flexible and adaptable to the circumstances that arise. “Everyone has personal issues and crises from time to time,” she explains. “A good leader is able to understand when team members are dealing with other life issues. In fact, it’s that kind of support that makes a good leader a great leader.” One of the ways that Denise prepares herself for the hiccups that come up is by continuing to learn new procedures and techniques and expand her skill set both in the field of cosmetic medicine and as a leader. “I still get so excited to attend workshops and conferences; I love learning new trends!” she says. Denise’s staff finds her passion infectious and inspiring, and they, too, are energized to set and achieve both business and personal goals. Denise recognizes also that good leaders themselves need a little help every now and then. “It’s like that old saying ‘You can’t see the forest for the trees,’” she explains, adding, “There are times we get in our own way!” When Denise feels a little stuck, she isn’t afraid to ask her team and others for their perspective and ideas. “Sometimes,” she admits, “a different approach or opinion makes all the difference in the world!”
BIGGEST WORK PET PEEVE:
WHAT YOU WISH YOU HAD MORE TIME FOR:
LAST THING YOU RESEARCHED ON THE INTERNET:
HOW YOUR HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS WOULD DESCRIBE THE YOUNGER YOU:
Tardiness
British Virgin Island boat charters
Travel
Quiet and studious
By: Dana Nieters | Photography By: Lisa Crates
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family
outdoor play
safe
KEEP YOUR HANDS
to yourself (no pushing, shoving, roughhousing, etc.). As the old adage goes, “It’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye.” NO JUMPING OFF any
structure of any height … period. BE MINDFUL OF rackets,
bats, balls, and other sports equipment … hit the ball, not each other!
AND
fun!
BE AWARE OF SMALLER CHILDREN, use
the buddy system, and stick up for others. DRESS APPROPRIATELY.
While she may want to wear her princess dress 24/7, it is NOT a good idea for outdoor play … choose clothing that is durable and does not have accessories or fabric that could get caught or tangled.
and in the beautiful state of North Carolina, we get to enjoy the outdoors a lot of the year … this means our little ones are going to need a few reminders about staying safe—whether it’s on the playground at school, boating on the lake, or just playing in their own backyard, here are some things to reiterate: LIVING BY THE LAKE
M A K I N G
HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE! Even in cooler
temps, kids need plenty of fluids. Have them pick out a cute, stylish water bottle that they can easily carry in their backpacks. BE YOUR OWN INSPECTOR. Make sure
playground equipment is age appropriate and in good condition, not only at your home but at ALL playgrounds you visit.
WATCH THAT SUN,
particularly between 10 am and 4 pm. Get your kids into the habit of putting on a broad-based UVA/UVB sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher before they go out to play. LEARN AND TEACH FIRST AID to your children. Even
preschoolers can dial 9-1-1 and learn to put pressure on a wound. But as they grow, teach them age-appropriate first aid techniques.
For more information on keeping kids safe and other parenting strategies, visit www.parents.com.
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L to R: Amy Rubacky, Dr. Trish Gibson, & Kathi Wilson
getting the HELP you need in your COMMUNITY Last August, AMY RUBACKY relocated her family from Washington, DC, to the Lake changing world Norman area. As a pediatric nurse with more than 30 years of experience (and three children of medicine, we who have special needs), Amy was familiar have access to more with “the niche network.” She went in search of an in-home behavior intervention specialized treatment specialist to work with her eldest child’s than ever before. But anxiety. Amy knew that meeting a child in their home environment allowed the sometimes it is more practitioner access in a way an office setting than the diagnosis. could not. In “their” space the child is more relaxed, and you see the whole How does a community family unit—it is indeed the whole family become aware of that is affected. Amy contacted a local counseling center that referred her to Dr. the niche group of Trish Gibson.
I N TO DAY ’ S
specialists that are beyond the family
medical doctor, the psychiatrist/psychologist, or school system? They do exist; they treat the whole family; and very often they make all the difference in a successful outcome. Three local professionals share their story …
DR. GIBSON began working with Amy’s teenager to provide weekly in-home sessions based on the teen’s individual needs. A retired school principal and instructional specialist, Dr. Gibson has spent the last fifteen years focusing on student behavior (specifically positive behavior interventions). She realized that being reactive to a child’s behavior (yelling, suspending from school, etc.) were ineffective strategies; she believes in a proactive approach. Last fall, Dr. Gibson began Lake Norman In-Home Behavior Interventions to assist individuals and families struggling with
behavioral dysfunction in the home and at school. As Dr. Gibson visited Amy’s home to work with one child, Amy mentioned she needed an educational advocate, an expert in the North Carolina school system, to help with her son, who has dyslexia, as he transitioned from private to public school. Enter KATHI WILSON, MA, MEd—Kathi is a retired educator with experience as a teacher, counselor, and administrator. She possesses a driving passion to support exceptional children, their parents, and their teachers through her company KSW Educational Concepts. Amy reached out to Kathi when it became apparent that going from a small, special needs private school to a public middle school would be quite the challenge. Kathi was able to create a tailored plan that met everyone’s needs, making the transition a smooth and successful one. For Amy, finding these outstanding local resources was only possible due to her experience with her own children and her background as a pediatric nurse. Amy’s private practice here in Lake Norman, Pediatric Nurse Navigator, helps families obtain access in a timely manner to the specialists they need. She is also connected with the new pediatric emergency room opening in late 2018 at Novant Huntersville Hospital—complete with all the pediatric subspecialty areas of medicine. “It was only recently,” Amy shares, “that I drove my youngest to Duke for an intractable 18-day migraine because I knew where the migraine specialist resided … the folks in our community are unaware of the lack of pediatric specialists, so as a member of the steering committee for the new ER, I am looking forward to the HUGE need for a Pediatric Nurse Navigator.”
Dr. Trish Gibson is an emotional and behavioral intervention specialist at LKN In-Home Behavior Interventions (LKNinhomebehaviorinterventions.com). Amy Rubacky is a registered nurse and the owner of Pediatric Nurse Navigator (pediatricnursenavigator.com). Kathi Wilson is an education advocate at KSW Educational Concepts (ksweducationalconcepts.com).
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Photography By: Chelsea Bren
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family
g n i y l l u B
s e i r a d n u o B and
… AND TALKING WITH YOUR KIDS!
can take many forms, especially with all of today’s technology. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), “bullying is a form of aggressive behavior in which someone intentionally and repeatedly causes another person injury or discomfort. Bullying can take the form of physical contact, words or more subtle actions.” B U L LY I N G
You’re the key when it comes to preventing bullying. It is important to teach your children what bullying is and to equip them with the proper solution. It is up to everyone to create a safe environment for children, both socially and academically. Educate yourself, your children, your family, and your community on how to prevent and stop bullying—
How Do You Know? Children may not realize they are being bullied, thinking it is just teasing; or they put up with it so they won’t be unpopular. Have an ageappropriate discussion with your child and explain to them that if they are uncomfortable under any circumstance, they should let you (or another adult) know. Don’t Turn Your Back Pay attention to your child’s moods and behaviors. If something seems wrong, it usually is so be sure to keep the lines of communication open. Encourage your child to talk about their school day and ask them detailed questions on everything from lunch to locker rooms. Talk, Walk, and Tell The APA recommends teaching your child to first talk to the bully (if they are not in direct danger). They should say things like, “You don’t scare me,” or “You need to go away now and mind your own business.” They should then walk away, don’t engage further, and go straight to an adult to tell them what has happened. Cyberbullying Teach your child to ignore and “Unfriend” anyone who is sending inappropriate messages, photos, links, and the like. Again, it is best not to engage; it fuels the fire! Monitor your child’s electronic devices and use the proper filters. Also, have a common place, like the kitchen, to store phones at night so you can keep tabs more closely. Emotional Bullying The APA explains that social bullying can be just as harmful as the physical type. Girls tend to bully in this fashion by excluding or spreading rumors about others. It can be just as devastating and painful, so be sure your child knows the various forms bullying can take.
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For more information on recognizing, preventing, and dealing with bullying, visit www.thebullyproject.com or the American Psychological Association’s website at www.apa.org.
© Jessamine | Dreamstime.com
Role Play at Home Practice ways your child can respond to bullies. Teach them creative, even humorous, ways to confront the bully. Quick, clever, and kind retorts can diffuse the situation, giving the child more time to distract, disregard, and move away from the bully.
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it's
Never too Late S O U T H E R N C A L I F O R N I A N AT I V E
Corrine Lewis is a nutrition/health coach at EverVitalMD, an integrative, functional medicine clinic in Mooresville. Married for more than 25 years, Corrine and her husband, David, met during their high school years at a local full-service gas station of all places. “He was a mechanic at the station and when I pulled into the selfservice area, he came over and offered to clean my windshield and check the oil level in my car,” Corrine reminisces. They struck up a friendship, went on a date a year later, and have been together ever since. They have two sons: Jake (22) and Tyler (19); a puppy named Stella rounds out their family.
Corrine Lewis EverVitalMD MOORESVILLE, NC
functional medicine; she already "It’s never has a Bachelor of Science degree Leaving their life and home on the West Coast and moving in natural health. Gleaming, too late, 2,400 miles to North Carolina states: “My passion and and you’re Corrine where they knew no one was calling in life is to help others, never too and I know for sure that our very scary. “I trusted and believed that this would be a good move old to make bodies are created to heal and for our family,” accepts Corrine. repair themselves in time with a change While David pursued his passion the right nourishment of mind, and career in racing, Corrine was to reverse body, and spirit.” Corrine’s goal able to stay at home with their impact people disease and isof toallpositively sons until the two started school. ages to reverse illness and create better disease and create optimum “Moving to the Lake Norman area has been one of the best health. “Helping others always health." decisions we have made and has makes a bad day better and provided our family a much better life and keeps me motivated,” she says, “and I greater opportunities,” Corrine says. always ask God to let me be a blessing in someone’s life every day.” Now that Jake and Tyler are grown, Corrine has had the time to go back to school, and Corrine has also learned the she recently completed her certification in importance of self-care. “The lesson
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that took me the longest to learn has been to make personal health a priority,” she admits. While Rome was not built in a day, it’s also important to remember that in our own lives and health. When she was young, Corrine faced her biggest challenge. “I was overweight as a child and was teased because of it. I didn’t fit in the designer clothes that my friends wore,” she remembers. Learning to love herself and accept herself for who she is, and not the size that popular culture dictates, was a daily step to take. “I am very comfortable in my skin and grateful for all that my body does for me every day,” she smiles. Corrine wants everyone to remember that it’s never too late, and you’re never too old to make a change to reverse disease and create better health.
By: Michelle Love | Photography By: Toni Lovejoy
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B E T T E R M E … B E T T E R YO U … B E T T E R W O R L D
MIND body spirit { { By mixing the ingredients of attitude and action, we can change the flavor of our own lives. Learn to nurture your body and soul to lead a more balanced life.
By: Elizabeth Chaney
E V E R Y S O O F T E N I M A K E I T A P R A C T I C E TO C H E C K I N W I T H M Y S E L F.
Am I living in the present moment? Am I spiritually awake? Sometimes the answer is yes but, more often than not, the answer is no. There are certainly times when I succeed at living according to my highest values and beliefs, but there are also times when I completely lose my way.
Connecting to my spiritual self is a priority for me. Making time for meditation and prayer is a conscious decision and a nonnegotiable commitment. Why? Because if I don’t, I focus on the things that don’t matter and lose all sight of the things that do. I get lost in all the minutiae. The alerts from my cell phone are often trivial, yet they still trigger in me a conditioned response that ups my anxiety. These interruptions rob me of many hours in my day. They cause me to miss out on opportunities to connect with the people around me.
Yoga is one of the things I do to help me check in. Living with intention is a topic that often comes up in class. One of my favorite intentions is to leave my ego outside the door. The class moves through a series of poses that challenge my body physically, but the greater challenge is that I honor and accept its limits. My favorite part of class is the moment before we roll up our yoga mats and put them away. We place our hands in prayer and bow to each person, make eye contact, and say, “Namaste.” I understand the word is used as a basic greeting in India where yoga began, but in American culture it has come to mean something more. Most frequently it is translated as “the light in me honors the light in you,” or something similar. I use this interpretation often as I pass people throughout the day.
My advice, then, is that you dive in and explore the many different ways you can check in. It doesn’t really matter how, it only matters that you do. Put it on your calendar and make it a priority. It’s the best way I know to live a life in which our actions line up with our best intentions.
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Another thing that helps me stay grounded is to step out into nature. One place that allows me to do this is Willow Equine, a 40-acre farm in Mooresville that offers nontraditional equine-assisted therapy. I have a dear friend who goes there regularly. She says there are counselors and equine specialists on hand, but they don’t tell you what to do. The owner, Katie Stankiewicz, says, “We simply hold space. It is a natural environment in which you can allow whatever issues you are dealing with to show up.” Katie shares that just being close to the animals leaves the door open for experiential insight. “The horses,” she explains, “often serve as metaphors for what’s going on in people’s lives, and clients tend to get clarity very quickly.”
Elizabeth Chaney is a freelance writer. She lives in the Lake Norman area with her husband and three teenagers. Previously, she has worked in women’s health, education, and fitness.
©Andybor | Dreamstime.com
CHECKING in
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