Lake Norman Woman December 2022

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

Check someone off your holiday list or treat yourself. Offers last the whole month of December! Crush your gift list with stocking stuffer and gift deals on display at all centers. Need a gift card? Save big with discounted Giftmas cards. Come see us for your personalized consultation, purchase items on Shopify or email kim.freel@physiciansplan.com.

MY GRANDMOTHER WAS LIKE A RARE, precious diamond, sending out light in every direction, shining kindness and compassion to anyone who crossed her path. She shouldn’t have been sparkly like that— not considering her upbringing. Born to an Italian immigrant and a Huntersville farm girl, she grew up in poverty. Her father, while not outright abusive, was… let’s just say di cult. Heartache visited her family often: her baby sister passed away at the age of two; then her little brother at 21. My grandmother was quite shy, mainly because of a smile marked by early tooth decay, which she was extremely self-conscious about. But my grandmother sparkled like a diamond anyway. First and foremost she was a Christian, and the Light of God’s presence in her life not only caused her to shine, it ltered through her to bless and illuminate others.

As her granddaughter, I was the illuminee of my grandmother’s light a lot. I was a bit shy myself, and for a number of reasons, like her, I had some serious questions about my own worth as a child. My grandmother, however, simply treated me as if my own heart light was all that she could see. And because she was so certain that I shone brightly, she helped me to recognize the light within myself. At the time of course, I didn’t really understand the amazing gift that had been given to me by having her in my life. But as I grew into a young adult, I realized how her light shining on me had helped build my con dence, my sense of self, and my faith.

WOMEN power

December CONTRIBUTORS

en Alzheimer’s took her from us, and I found myself in the dark. e void she left was an eclipse that shadowed my heart and my faith in God. I asked Him “Why?” over and over, as if any answer would have satis ed me. And though I stumbled around in the darkness for a while, my grandmother, even in death, would have nothing of it. She sent me a message—a clear, undeniable, “ is can‘t just be a coincidence” kind of message—shining her light on me so brightly that the darkness enveloping me had no choice but to ee.

I’m thankful my grandmother nudged me back into the light. After all, isn’t that what Christmas is all about? Celebrating that Light—the Light of Jesus Christ—always defeats darkness? But even as a Christian who once again loves Christmas, I almost always allow all the shopping, decorating, wrapping, caroling, cooking, eating, drinking, unwrapping, cleaning, and undecorating to turn me into a grinchy beast. And as I recall, shining like a diamond was not one of the Grinch’s best attributes.

But I am Edith Eppley’s granddaughter, and I can sparkle this Christmas season regardless of all the hustle and bustle that tries to dim my shine, for her light still illuminates me. It always will. Just as the Light of Jesus Christ will forever separate us from the darkness. Merry Christmas everyone. I pray that your light shines bright this holiday season too! w

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Kathy Dicken; Dr. Roger Hunter; Lindsay Martell; Leslie Murphy; Gina Ricca; Dr. Tyler Wurmlinger

LIVE, LEARN, gro

Life takes practice! And though they don’t always come wrapped in a shiny red bow, the lessons we learn along the way are invaluable gifts that are worth sharing. Here are a few noteworthy examples featured in this issue:

I’M POSITIVELY POSITIVE

FACE YOUR FEARS AND DO IT ANYWAY

Michon McCorkle (Family Matters Christian Counseling) shares with us on PAGE 12 the story behind her mantra: “Just because you feel fear doesn’t mean you can’t do it. Do it, afraid!”

Starting a new career at 37 years old was frightening and exciting for Michon but she took a leap of faith and has no regrets. “With fear, failure, mistakes, and setbacks, I have accomplished just about every goal I’ve set for myself,” Michon smiles.

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

Be sure to read all about December’s Cover Girl Dr. Claire Papp with White and Haines Advanced & General Dentistry. Dr. Papp’s positive energy is contagious, and that light shines brightly for many … including her patients whom she adores! From a Navy family, Dr. Papp has had the life experience of moving a lot (11 cities total!) and this, subsequently, has shaped her into a social extrovert who is adaptable and welcoming. Her secrets are revealed on PAGE 30.

THAT’S WHAT HE SAID

Dr. William R. Mitchell founded Southern Oncology Specialists in 2010 and has been bonding with patients ever since. “As a physician,” he says on PAGE 44, “I know that speaking with patients about what is important to them in their lives is so bene cial; the talk is not just about cancer and treatments and prognoses … we believe in each other and connect on a deeper level.”

Check out our new feature on PAGE 40 with Dr. Kara Lembo and Dr. Lindsay Montgomery (Lembo Montgomery Family & Cosmetic Dentistry) who are planning their 12-year anniversary celebration in 2023. Gaining invaluable experience during their youth by working in their father’s dental practice, the sisters tell us how his incredible work ethic and appreciation for life in general led to their success. w

on FOLLOWING HER FAITH: I worked in investment banking for many years before making a career change at age 37. I left finance to follow my passion for “help ministry.” I began working with non-profit ministries and enrolled in the GCTS Christian Counseling program. After graduating in 2014, I started Family Matters Christian Counseling the following year. I had to rebuild my career through volunteer opportunities, networking, and sometimes providing services without pay. The work has paid off in so many unexpected ways! My life’s mission is to help people see themselves as God does—through a lens of love and grace. I pray that God working through me will positively impact others to seek the purpose and plan for their lives.

on EMBRACING ME TIME: Having a healthy work/ life balance is so important. I do this by setting boundaries, starting my day and ending my day with prayer, surrounding myself with healthy friendships, and staying connected to my church family. I exercise regularly with a friend, eat reasonably well, and attend therapy monthly. As for my hobbies, I absolutely love music. I collect vinyl albums, and one of my favorite things is attending live music and comedy shows. I also love to dance, cook, and host dinners for my family and friends.

on CELEBRATING WANDERLUST: I love to travel! I have visited Thailand, China, France, England, Italy, Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, Puerto Rico, and Dominican Republic, to name a few. My most memorable trip is traveling with my son to France and England. My goal was to expose him to as many places as possible before he graduated high school, and the Europe trip was the grand finale before he entered college. I will always treasure those memories!

on FEELING THE LOVE: My parents were my biggest inspiration. They were both hard working, honest, wise, and generous people. My parents did more for others than for themselves. My husband is incredibly supportive, and I have mentors who have been significant sources of wisdom and support. The people in my care also inspire me with their resilience and strength.

on MOVING MOUNTAINS: Years ago, I heard a teaching by Joyce Meyer where she said, “Just because you feel fear doesn't mean you can’t do it. Do it, afraid!” This statement has been my mantra ever since, and I realized how many opportunities I had forfeited due to fear. I now face challenges “shaking in my boots,” and my worst fears never really happen. Starting a new career at 37 years old was frightening and exciting. It was a true leap of faith, and I've never regretted my decision. With fear, failure, mistakes, and setbacks, I have accomplished just about every goal I’ve set for myself.

Michon McCorkle, MA, MBA, LFMT-S, is a Diplomate Pastoral Psychotherapist and AAMFT Approved Supervisor and Marriage and Family Therapist at Family Matters Christian Counseling. She can be reached at

FAMILY MATTERS CHRISTIAN COUNSELING

Welcome to our community outreach page, Inspire Lake Norman—Building Community Through Giving, where every month or so we will highlight charities from our area and provide information on how you can get involved. We want to give back, and the best way to do that is through you. If you’d like to have your favorite charity included in an upcoming edition, please email Leslie@lakenormanwoman.com.

INSPIRE LAKE NORMAN:

Building Community Through Giving

“Meet Me Under the Mistletoe” and bring your philanthropic heart! December is the time for giving and there are lots of things to do right here in Lake Norman that will get you in the spirit. Here are a few area events where you can get out, help out, and give back this holiday season:

Lights of Love is an annual free community gathering hosted by the Iredell Health Foundation to honor a caregiver or in memory of a loved one. This year’s event will be December 7th and 8th and you can purchase a tree ornament for the holiday tree in the lobby of both the Mooresville campus and the

Statesville Hospital. Both events will run 6 – out, 8 p.m. Proceeds benefit the Cancer Patient Support Fund at Iredell Health System. For more information, visit www.iredelllightsoflove.org or you can contact Jen Balog, Executive Director of the Iredell Health Foundation at 704-878-4547 or Jennifer.Balog@ iredellhealthfoundation.org.

Single Parents Christmas Mall 2022 holiday joy, and this year’s event will be Saturday, December 17th in Charlotte. Single parents and their children (ages 0-12) can shop for Christmas gifts, food, and winter clothes essentials at NO COST to them. Not only will parents shop for their children, but children can shop for their parents. For more information and for ways you can help, visit www.therestorationplace.org.

children,

Carolina’s 1st Choice Properties, LLC, has partnered with Charlotte Metro Police Department to help with this year’s Christmas Toy Drive. Please drop off your new unwrapped toys at 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 200, in Charlotte, Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can also have someone pick up items from your home or office Monday-Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Text or call 704-701-5972 for more information. Toys will be delivered before December 17th to the CMPD location.

The Barre Belle Holiday Benefit Luncheon will be held at Twin Mills Club (301 Exploration Boulevard in Denver) on Sunday, December 4th from 1:00–4:00 p.m. There will be raffles, door prizes, and a special guest performance by UNCC dance students. All proceeds benefit Barre Belle, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides free ballet and yoga classes to underserved students in the local Charlotte arts community. For more information visit www.barrebelleballet.org/events.

Non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, Piedmont Dance Theatre, will be presenting its 20th anniversary production of The Nutcracker at the Mooresville Performing Arts Center on December 3rd (2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.). The performance will also be held on December 17th (6:30 p.m.) and December18th (2:30 p.m.) at Keppel Auditorium—Catawba College. Featuring the Salisbury Symphony Orchestra, you can find more info and/or purchase tickets at www.piedmontdancetheatre.com.

Creating Stunning Flower Bouquets for Events and Weddings

FFor years we’ve been creating flowers for family and friends. Over the years, this has been our test bed for creating our design pieces for everyday flowers, corporate flowers, events, and weddings. Now we want to make our beautiful creations available to everyone. We have the best quality along with unique fresh flowers gathered from around the world to your hands.

We pride ourselves on the work we do. We’ve created bouquets from designs our clients have imagined and beyond. Every design is handcrafted using techniques we’ve learned over the years. We invite you to visit our DaVinci Fleur Flower Boutique and see what we can do for you and help you create your perfect special day.

HOME FOR T H E H O ID

Party Planning Tips

Planning a party involves many details, especially during the holidays. If you find yourself in the hostess seat this year, here are some helpful ideas to make your event more fun and less stressed:

ALCOHOL

If you’re hosting a party with a bar, keep selections to just a few—too many options are overwhelming. Red and white wine, beer, champagne, and maybe just one fun signature cocktail should su ce. Don’t forget non-alcoholic beverages (they make GREAT nonalcoholic beer these days!), and for that little extra with a big impact, don’t skip on a garnish. Fresh rosemary sprigs, mint, or frozen cranberries are so fun and festive!

BUDGET

ere are a minimal number of weekends during the holidays, and we all try to pack as much as possible into a small period of time. Don’t discount a Wednesday or ursday. Your guests would love a break in the week, and with all the e ort you’re putting in, you might just have a higher attendance.

It’s entirely way too easy to exceed costs. It’s so important to crunch numbers wisely and stick to it … decide what is most important to you to spend the biggest portion: food? alcohol? decorations?

FOOD

Here is the real trick to being a hostess with the mostess! Not all of us are crafty in the kitchen, but who says you have to be? Opt for catering. Take advantage of catering services and boot the stress of time and clean-up. ere are fullservice sta ed options, as well as fancy dropand-set services available. is is where your culinary selections are delivered, fully set up in fancy disposables (plating, cutlery, and additions included), and ready before your guests arrive.

COHOST OR ASK A FRIEND

Help! We all have insanely busy onthe-go lives these days. It’s ok to ask a friend to help you divide and conquer. I’m sure they would be more than happy to pitch in and o er some ideas and accessories to share.

ADD A THEME

ink ugly-sweater; ornament exchange; pajama party; holiday cookie bring-and-share. Guests love to be involved and it always adds a little extra holiday cheer to the party.

SET THE MOOD Lighting Decorations Music

We all want a deck-thehalls décor throughout our home straight out of a magazine, but often less is more. Holiday decorations are special and should not be overdone. Focus more on soft lighting and keep scents to a minimum. Premake a playlist and keep on low volume so as not to interfere with sparkling conversations. Remember, it’s all about the comfort and entertainment of your friends, family, and coworkers. w

Gina Ricca is a co-partner with owner Alexander Cruz of Lake Norman Catering & Wedding Center located in Langtree at 119 Landings Drive, #106, in Mooresville (by appointment only). Gina has been an event coordinator and day-of wedding planner with Lake Norman Catering for over three years and is also their baker of custom cakes for weddings and special occasions under the business name Dolce Sweet LKN. Connect with Gina at Lakenormancatering.com.

LKNE XPERT

There are approximately three billion Christmas cards sent each year in America alone.

The best-selling single record of all time is “White Christmas” by Irving Berlin.

All the gifts in the Twelve Days of Christmas equal 364 gifts.

Christmas 8 FUNfacts about

Alabama was the first state to officially recognize Christmas in 1836.

The average Christmas tree takes about 15 years to grow.

Christmas trees have been sold in the U.S. since 1850.

About 35 million Christmas trees are sold each year in the U.S.

President Teddy Roosevelt, an environmentalist, banned Christmas trees from the White House in 1901.

Creative in the Kitchen

While not a game per se, a spirited contest is always fun, so gather all the bakers in the family and have a Christmas bake-off. You can judge by three categories: presentation, taste, and creativity. You can also do a cookie decoration contest or see who can build the best gingerbread house.

Peel the Package Wrap several small gifts with many, many layers of wrapping paper (some might just be three or four layers; some might be 10). Then pass the gifts around with each person unwrapping one layer … whoever removes the last layer of wrapping paper wins that gift.

REINDEER GAMES!

FUN FOR THE FAMILY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Holiday Emoji Pictionary

Emojis are fun and you can get creative translating emojis into popular Christmas carols. The fun is in the creating and the solving!

With colder weather, shorter daylight, and longer family visits, ‘tis the season for some festive family fun. Move over Monopoly and shuck the charades, we’ve got some ideas that will give game night a whole new meaning.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Twinkling Lights Game

You must help Clark Griswold hang 25,000 twinkling Christmas lights without something going awry.

Name That Tune

Play just a few seconds of a Christmas song and see who can guess it first. This is great to play with grandma and grandpa virtually!

Especially fun to play with the classic holiday movie streaming in the background, this easyto-learn game is available on Amazon for $8. w

what did the dentist of the year receive?

little plaque,” LAUGHS DR. CLAIRE PAPP OF WHITE AND HAINES ADVANCED & GENERAL DENTISTRY IN CORNELIUS. “WAIT, THERE’S MORE,” SHE CONTINUES WITH A GRIN: "WHICH TEETH DO YOU NEED TO BRUSH? THE ONES YOU WANT TO KEEP! AND AN OLDIE BUT A GOODIE, MY TEETH WERE STAINED SO THE DENTIST ASKED ME, ‘DO YOU SMOKE OR DRINK COFFEE?’ I TOLD HIM I DRINK IT,” DR. PAPP CONCLUDES IN HER DELIGHTFUL WAY.

“a

WRITER Leslie Ogle PHOTOGRAPHER Chelsea Bren

I“I AM IN MY ELEMENT,” she says, “when I am with my patients, telling them jokes, listening to their stories, and engaging in their lives … I like to make folks feel welcome and at home. In a world full of uncertainty, if you can try to nd the positives, things are more likely to turn out that way,” she says. “I believe in looking at the glass half full and not half empty.”

Dr. Papp grew up in a Navy family and moved every two years all over the United States. Born in London, she has also lived in San Diego, Pensacola, Washington, D.C., and Virginia Beach, to name a few. She attended Virginia Tech for her undergraduate degree, majoring in business management. Her desire to attend dental school would introduce her to Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Sarasota, Florida— completing her last clinical year in Erie, Pennsylvania.

“In fact,” Dr. Papp recounts, “I have lived in a total of 11 cities throughout the U.S. As expected, growing up moving every two years was very challenging for me but now, looking back, it has really shaped who I am as a person—extroverted, social, and able to make those around me feel comfortable … and it helps create that unique bond I have with my patients.”

When Dr. Papp was pursuing her undergraduate degree in business, she went to the local dentist and noticed he had a degree in nance; this intrigued young Claire. “I remember thinking, ‘ nance and teeth, interesting’ … I soon met with my advisor to see if it was possible to take the necessary science courses along with my business courses.”

at summer she shadowed a dentist for over 100 hours and loved every minute of it. While it took an extra year to graduate, it was well worth the e ort as it turns out. “My business management degree has helped me see things from both a business and personal point of view in my career,”

Dr. Papp explains, “so it’s been extremely useful and bene cial in a myriad of ways.”

Dr. Papp’s schedule is such that she has three-day weekends, which works out well since her mom lives in Las Vegas and her dad lives outside of Washington, D.C. Her two older brothers, with whom she is very close, live out of state as well with one in Orange County and the other in Phoenix.

DR. CLAIRE PAPP WITH DR. STEVEN WHITE & DR. BRAD HAINES

WILLIAM T. CORBETT, JR., has more than 30 years of experience, and he has tried more than 200 jury trials. He has secured outstanding results for his clients in out-of-court negotiations and at trial. To find out how we can help you, we encourage you to contact our office for a free consultation.

represent clients in Mooresville, Statesville and throughout Iredell County and the surrounding areas.

“We are spread out, but it gives me the opportunity to travel which I love to do and see family at the same time,” Dr. Papp shares. “I cherish the moments we are together. My two older brothers have inspired me the most because of the hard workers they both are. eir personalities have helped to shape who I am. ey have also inspired me to be a better person because they have always believed in me. Having their love and support means the world. Luckily, we have such a close relationship even though we live in three di erent cities on two opposite coasts.”

While Dr. Papp does not have any children of her own yet, she does hope to someday; meanwhile, she has three canines that keep her busy: Watson, a hound mix; Waylon, a bloodhound; and Tundra, a husky. e dogs keep her and her boyfriend, Nick, constantly on their feet but also overwhelmingly loved.

“Although I am in the business of canines,” Dr. Papp grins, “these three other types of canines are near and dear to my heart. I like to donate to local animal shelters twice a year to help with

operation costs for dogs who are injured or in need; Halfway ere Rescue and Big Hearts Big Barks (BHBB) are two local nonpro ts that I support. In fact, I rescued Waylon from BHBB earlier this year.”

e positive energy Dr. Papp emits is a joy to see— half an hour in the dental chair somehow turns into a visit with an old friend. ey say if you love your work, you never work a day in your life. is is certainly evident not only with Dr. Papp, but with everyone in the o ce. “I love coming to work every day,” she beams. “From the amazing team I work with and the patients I meet, to hearing about their lives and stories … my work is more than just xing teeth. Working with Dr. White and Dr. Haines is such an honor; they are knowledgeable, wonderful dentists, and we just click. I am blessed and eternally grateful.”

When it comes to what the future holds, Dr. Papp is a pro at embracing the now, but she does have goals to ponder. “Professionally, I appreciate the idea of constant growth and learning. I feel that it

is my obligation to stay informed and educated for the best outcome of my patients. Now that I have started my career, I have continued to stay involved in dentistry outside of the o ce. On a personal note, I recently moved to Huntersville and hope to raise my future family here in the Lake Norman area.”

It doesn’t take a fortuneteller to make the predication that Dr. Papp will most likely get just what she puts her mind to … after all, what you send out comes back, and she seems to be sending out the right stu ! “When I started looking at life with a more positive outlook, I became happier with myself and life in general … I saw marked improvements in my overall health and wellbeing as well as my career. I truly believe that when you give o a positive energy, it attracts it right back to you.”

“ALTHOUGH I AM IN THE BUSINESS OF canines,”

DR. PAPP GRINS, “THESE THREE OTHER TYPES OF CANINES ARE NEAR AND DEAR TO MY HEART."

WATSON & WAYLON

TUNDRA

THE

women move ON

DEANNA BELK, co-owner of Mooresville Media, Inc., the parent company to WHIP Radio 1350 AM and 99.3 FM, is pleased to announce the opening of their new location in downtown Mooresville at 149 E. Iredell Ave. First airing in 1950, WHIP is an oldies radio format featuring music from the ’60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. VIVIAN BRANDON, host of the “Morning Glory Broadcast” show is celebrating her 45th anniversary at WHIP.

The Iredell Health Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Iredell Health System, raised more than $56k for local heart health at its inaugural Heart of Jazz event in October. The highlight of the event was a grateful patient testimonial by DEBORAH CHAMBERS who was treated by Piedmont HealthCare’s Dr. Jips Zachariah. She presented him with a jar of lifesavers as a small token of her appreciation during the event.

AMY LEE is the owner and principal designer of Artistic Interior Design, a full-service, luxury interior design firm which serves the entire Charlotte and Lake Norman area. She gained invaluable experience working in several prestigious architectural firms in Atlanta and New York City. She holds a BFA in interior design and is a professional member of ASID, passing the NCIDQ certification exam in 2004.

“The Brow Babe” HEATHER SINNOTT, esthetician, phlebotomist, and permanent cosmetic specialist with over 20 years of experience, has relocated to Lush Salon Suites at 105 Landings Drive, Suite 203, in the Langtree Shopping Center in Mooresville. She offers a myriad of services, and one-on-one consultations are always complimentary.

Iredell Health System was recently recognized at the inaugural Charlotte Business Journal Health Care Heroes Awards ceremony. Named the 2022 Volunteer Health Care Hero, SUSAN TOLLE was honored for her efforts in suicide prevention and her role in the Iredell Health Foundation.

MICHELLE WALSH recently opened Cocoon Salon Studio at 20901 Catawba Avenue in Cornelius, upstairs from Home, Heart & Soul. A Master Stylist with 15 years’ experience, she accentuates her clients best facial features through color and easy-to-maintain haircuts for both men and women for a modern, fresh look.

Hope & Freedom

Counseling Services has now moved to Charlotte where TINA WEHNER becomes President and Executive Director. Clients have come to Houston from all over the world for the center’s workshops and sessions, and now attendees can easily fly direct as their offices are located near Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

IN ON YOUR z m sm e

Teeth Whitening

7 TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR SCREEN APPEAL

It is common for teeth to yellow as we age. Certain foods and beverages such as coffee and tea are more likely to contribute to discoloration of your teeth … in addition to personal habits such as smoking. Before starting any whitening treatment, you should consult with your dentist to determine what, if any, whitening procedures will work best for you. There are several over-the-counter products and at-home treatments available; and in-office treatments can effectively whiten teeth in one visit.

Porcelain Veneers

Some serious stains (such as those caused by tetracycline) won’t whiten with professional treatments, and porcelain veneers might be recommended. Porcelain veneers cover the front of the teeth and are stain resistant.

Minimal Orthodontics

Dental Bonding

This procedure is used to correct teeth that are chipped, broken, gapped, or discolored. It involves the creation and application of toothcolored composite material that is shaped to match the teeth, then bonded to the tooth’s surface. It is a simple treatment that can be done in one visit.

Changing Your Teeth Shape and Size

Dr. Tyler Wurmlinger is a dentist with Cosmetic Dentistry of the Carolinas providing comprehensive care as well as aesthetic and general dentistry. Together with Dr. Ross Nash, they continue to provide innovations in cosmetic and aesthetic dentistry as well as general dental care. Connect with them at 704.895.7660 or via www.CosmeticDentistofCharlotte.com.

Straight teeth look more attractive and make it easier to maintain your oral health. Thanks to advancements in orthodontic treatments, removable aligners (“invisible braces”) can be used to straighten crooked or crowded teeth.

Homecare

It may seem obvious but brushing and flossing are the most important tools for keeping a healthy and attractive mouth. Using power toothbrushes can improve your homecare results as well.

Dental contouring, also known as tooth reshaping, is a cosmetic treatment that can enhance the appearance of your teeth. It is often used for patients who have slight imperfections such as misshapen or overly pointed teeth. This treatment is affordable and can result in dramatic changes to the overall appearance of a smile. Smiles naturally look better when the teeth are the right shape and size; subsequently, when your teeth are the right shape and size to complement your face, your smile and your overall appearance will improve. This can be accomplished very conservatively and provides dramatic results.

Routine Dental Visits

Something as simple as going to your dentist at least twice a year is one of the easiest things you can do to improve your smile. Aside from checking for cavities and oral diseases and providing general dental health maintenance, your dentist can also provide other options for making your smile even brighter. w

LKNE XPERT

Social media and video conferencing is now a big part of our daily lives—whether for work, school, or just catching up with old friends. This has created the desire to look better … off screen and now ON screen! Below are some tips to help you improve your smile and your “screen appeal!”

As If COVID Weren’t Bad Enough

Some (Good!) News About Long COVID

FOR MOST PEOPLE, life post-COVID pandemic is returning to, if not normal, than at least close to normal. Stores, schools, and stadiums are back to full capacity, and COVID-19 risk management (To mask or not mask?) is, in most cases, an individual’s decision rather than a government mandate. And thankfully, the majority of breakthrough infections are not causing severe illness, as compared to early in the pandemic when no one had immunity.

However, some people who have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 can experience long-term e ects from their infection, known as long COVID. e symptoms of long COVID include shortness of breath, cough, fatigue that is often severe, brain fog (inability to focus and concentrate), anxiety, and/or depression for weeks or months after infection. And, unfortunately, these symptoms can not only be a continued nuisance following a person’s bout with COVID, they can be quite debilitating.

after hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) sessions. HBOT is a wellresearched treatment that involves breathing 100% pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber allowing a person to increase the amount of oxygen taken into the lungs by as much as 15 times what is inhaled with normal air pressure. is can then boost the power of the immune system and stimulate the release of stem cells, which help tissues heal. It is extremely safe and has been shown to be e ective in the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome and traumatic brain injury, which have many similarities to long COVID.

Dr. Roger Hunter is the owner of Nirvana Hyperbaric Institute, located at 146 Medical Park Road, Suite 110, in Mooresville. For a free consultation or more information, call 704.471.4100 or visit www.NirvanaHBO.com.

It is estimated that anywhere from 10% to 20% of patients experience long COVID after infection—even if they weren’t very sick in the rst place. However, there is currently no diagnostic test that can con rm whether someone has long COVID* and the treatment options for long COVID are limited or non-existent.

But there is some good news. Recent studies report substantial improvement in patients with long COVID symptoms

e most recent of these studies, performed in Israel, entailed 40 daily HBOT treatments for two months, with many of the patients stating that their lives had been transformed by the improvement in energy levels, sleep, cognitive function, and decreased depression.** ese ndings built on those that came before, in which British researchers found that HBOT improved long COVID symptoms in just 10 sessions.***

Want to learn more about HBOT for lingering COVID-19 symptoms? Our trained, caring team of hyperbaric specialists at Nirvana Hyperbaric Institute are ready to answer any questions you may have! We welcome you to contact us today. w

*Research at the University of California San Francisco has found in ammatory markers in long Covid patients ** www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-15565-0 ***www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8806311

LKNE XPERT

Taking Care of Business

IT’S A TRICKY BUSINESS. Which in particular, you ask? ALL business is tricky … especially in today’s climate. Running a business takes hard work, dedication, and passion. Whether you’re just starting out or have been running a business for years, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success.

Take for example Dr. Kara Lembo and Dr. Lindsay Montgomery who are planning their 12-year anniversary celebration in 2023; and, this month they share with our readers some of what has contributed to their many successes.

e sisters gained invaluable experience in their youth by working in their father’s dental practice, and his work ethic and approach to life in general made lasting impressions. “He taught us how to achieve goals, to work hard, and to do so with a positive attitude,” Dr. Montgomery smiles. “He led by example,” Dr. Lembo adds, “and he showed us how to be kind and work hard. He epitomized love, teamwork, and leadership … and we carry that with us in everything we do.” w

The work/family balance is delicate but achievable. “We make it a priority not to bring work home. It’s important for us to engage in fun activities with our families where there is a lot of laughter. We also like to follow a healthy diet and get our exercise in, but we make it fun. It all circles back to our dad—he is why we are such close sisters and our families are so close, sharing so much in business and family and, quite frankly, why we are so successful over 11 years in. He taught us everything, and we know he is smiling down and celebrating with us.”

Perseverance and passion are paramount. In any business, there are many challenging times among the successes. The key is to not let things get you down but, instead, take those challenges and use them to fuel your drive and desire. “Our path to success has not always been a straight one,” the sisters point out. “There have been many trials and tribulations, but we try to turn our missteps into opportunities. We don’t even refer to them as “mistakes” but as learning experiences. Each of those experiences has given us more strength to become better at the next level.”

Surround yourself with greatness. “For us,” the ladies explain, “being a success in business means being a good example to others. It means setting a high standard of accountability for ourselves that others can observe and emulate; it means being the kind of person who others will want to follow. We love all of the ladies who are on our team that make it happen every day, and we are eternally grateful for them … employees who are not only committed to the practice, but to a high level of achievement and to their common goal and our motto: Happy team, happy patients!”

Dr. Kara Lembo and Dr. Lindsay Montgomery Owners of Lembo Montgomery Family & Cosmetic Dentistry in Mooresville

that's what SaidHE

THE POWER OF LOVE, THE POWER OF US

My love story begins when I was an undergraduate at Marshall University. I guess you could say that cupid’s arrow struck at a football game because that’s where, on a blind date, I met my wife, Jane. She was — and is — a strong, independent, and honest woman. We got engaged three months after that rst date, and we’ve been together ever since. We now have two sons and most recently two grandsons. I like to think we’re a “happily ever after” couple, but I’ve also learned a ton of lessons along the way, like being willing to admit you are wrong and apologize. I also know how important it is to compromise.

SPOILER ALERT:

Men and women are different. Ok, so maybe that fact didn’t really surprise you. After all, it’s been 28 years since John Gray popularized the idea that men are from Mars and women are from Venus. And as much as we love sharing women’s stories, we decided it was time to lend the Martians of LKN our ear, too. This month we share the perspectives of Dr. William R. Mitchell of Southern Oncology Specialists.

LISTEN, HEAL, REPEAT

As a physician, I know speaking with patients about what is important to them in their lives is so bene cial to both of us; and the talk is not just about cancer and treatments and prognoses. If I talk about the journey we are going to take together as patient and physician in a meaningful and personal way —  and if patients share what shapes their thinking and their way of life with me — we believe in each other’s stories and connect with one another. at’s powerful medicine … for both of us. Of course, I’m doing everything I can to help my patients beat cancer, but I’m also listening and sharing in their stories. It’s therapy. Everyone has a story to tell, you just have to listen.

EARLY DAYS AND INSPIRED BEGINNINGS

I grew up in Portsmouth, Ohio. As a teenager, I actually hung out in this steel mill town’s emergency rooms — tagging along with the medical teams and watching them in action. When I graduated college, I attended medical school at the University of Louisville, and it was there that I learned the story of an architect who was just diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. It was a de ning moment in my life. When he was diagnosed, none of the physicians knew how to help him, but then the oncologist came in and knew exactly what to say and do.  at is when I knew I wanted to be an oncologist.

THE SWEET SONGS OF CHRISTMAS

I’m passionate about all genres of music. You might say I’m a music connoisseur! is holiday season, I’m looking forward to listening to holiday favorites with my two grandsons and starting Christmas traditions with them. When it comes to decorating, Jane is in charge of the inside décor, and I get the outside. I love lighting up the trees in our yard with bright mistletoe and festive balls. We’ve done it for years and it makes the holidays extra special and extra memorable. w

Dr. William R. Mitchell founded Southern Oncology Specialists in 2010 and is a board-certified physician in medical oncology. He completed both his internal medicine residency and fellowship at Wake Forest University’s Bowman Gray School of Medicine. With five area locations, connect with Dr. Mitchell and his team at www.southernoncology.com.

DR. WILLIAM R. MITCHELL, SOUTHERN ONCOLOGY SPECIALISTS

WRITER Lindsay Martell

MAPLE PECAN CRUSTED SALMON

FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

MAPLE PECAN CRUSTED SALMON is elegant enough for a dinner party, but simple enough for a busy weeknight. Simply roast salmon llets on a sheet pan with a maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and pecan topping over a bed of chopped sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, apples, and shallots - it’s the perfect cozy dinner!

Last year, I served this at our book club holiday dinner, and to this day, those girls are still talking about "that delicious salmon dish" and asking me for the recipe!

In addition to being delicious, this meal is also ridiculously easy to prepare! Save time by keeping the peel on both the sweet potato and the apple, and buy a bag of fresh, washed and trimmed Brussels sprouts. And since the vegetables go in the oven rst, you have the perfect opportunity to prepare the salmon, make the pecan glaze and chop the apple while the vegetables cook.

Oh, and did I mention this meal cooks entirely on one sheet pan? So when dinner is over, there’s only one pan to wash!

Whether you’re cooking this for a busy weeknight, or serving it at a holiday get together, this one-pan meal makes a beautiful presentation and will give you raving reviews! w

INGREDIENTS

1 large sweet potato –cut into 1" cubes

1 large apple –cut into 1" cubes (with peel)

1 lb. Brussels sprouts –trimmed and halved

2-3 large shallots –ends trimmed off, peeled and cut in similar size as other veggies

4 (5 oz.) salmon fillets

1 tbsp olive oil

PECAN GLAZE

2/3 cup pecans – finely chopped

2 tbsp Dijon mustard

3 tbsp organic maple syrup

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp paprika

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

DIRECTIONS

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line a large sheet pan with non-stick foil or parchment paper. Toss chopped sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts and shallots with 1 tablespoon of olive oil (can be done in a zip-top bag or bowl) and spread on a sheet pan. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Roast vegetables for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, rinse and pat dry salmon fillets, mix all pecan glaze ingredients in a small bowl, and chop the apple.

After the vegetables cook for 15 minutes, remove from the oven. Toss vegetables with a spatula, and push them to the edges of the pan to make room for the salmon fillets. Place salmon skin side down on sheet pan, and spoon pecan mixture on top of each fillet. Sprinkle chopped apples around the salmon.

Roast for 10-12 more minutes, or until the fish flakes with a fork. Serve immediately! Makes 4 servings.

NOTES

You can cook and serve the salmon with the skin on. It’s difficult to take off before cooking, and is messy to remove after cooked without disturbing the lovely maple glaze. But, the cooked salmon is fork-tender, and easily comes off the skin as you take a bite.

Sweet potatoes do not have to be peeled! But it’s truly your preference. If you do not peel, make sure you scrub your potatoes well.

Kathy Dicken lives in Huntersville and is the author of the food blog, “ e Tasty Bits.” For more meal ideas that are simple and delicious, you can follow her blog at www.thetastybits.com or on Instagram @thetastybits.

FLYING SOUTH FOR THE WINTER

If you haven’t looked into Allegiant ights heading south out of the Concord airport you are missing out. A ordable is an understatement,

Ft. Lauderdale in January for around $150! Once highly recommend renting a car and driving the

attitudes

ISLAND HOPPING

Adventure is the name of the game as you picnic, shop, swim, and snorkel your way down the picturesque chain of tropical islands known as the Florida Keys. When you get to Key West, be sure to attend the sunset celebration at Mallory Square … it is well worth it! Key West is a unique con uence of history, climate, food, natural beauty, cultural diversity, architecture, and unabashed romantic appeal—all of which can be witnessed at Mallory Square.

GETTING ANCHORED

ABOUT

latitudes

On either side of your trip, you’ll want to check out Lauderdale-by-the-Sea. Just about 20 miles from the Ft. Lauderdale airport, this delightfully eclectic beachside haven is a great place to unwind. A peaceful laidback community, it also masks some nostalgically rowdy vibes. It de nitely has an island feel and caters to both the family and those who may want to imbibe a bit.

FINS UP!

Margaritaville Beach House Key West brings the Margaritaville state of mind to Florida’s southernmost point, with spacious suites and guest rooms, contemporary amenities, and gracious service. Located just a few steps from Smathers Beach, the resort gives guests full and easy access to a gorgeous stretch of sand, turquoise waters, and a wide array of beach activities. e Tin Cup Chalice Bar & Chill restaurant provides full-service poolside dining, while other o erings include a 24-hour tness center, on-site provision shop, poolside entertainment, daily refreshments, kids’ activities, lawn games, and hammocks dotted throughout the grounds. ere is also a shuttle to take you to all the island’s attractions.

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

PERFECTLY QUAINT YET CHIC

Located just feet from the beautiful Atlantic at Lauderdaleby-the-Sea, e Beachside Village Resort has all you need to rest and regroup. e South Beachesque hotel o ers fashionable, well-appointed suites, beautifully scaped pools and courtyards, as well as kayaks, beach chairs, and bikes for your use. It’s an easy walk into town, or the hotel’s complimentary golfcart shuttle will be happy to give you a lift. And be sure to check out the Even Keel on historic A1A … the Adult Grilled Cheese is crafted with homemade bread, brie cheese, and blue crab— then topped with apricot purée. Nothing on the menu disappoints!

While “ e Duval Crawl” and other rambunctious celebrations have made their mark on Key West, there is more to Down Island than drinking rum and tequila. ere are awardwinning restaurants, Spanish galleon treasure museums, historic forts, and shipwrecks to dive. e Truman Little White House is here, and Hemingway enjoyed (and dodged) his notoriety when he moved into his Key West home, building the high privacy wall that encircles the house today. His famed 6-toed felines still roam the property, seemingly unaware of the curious tourists who seek a glimpse into the past. w

LESLIE OGLE, EDITOR OF LAKE NORMAN WOMAN MAGAZINE AND PART-TIME FLORIDA RESIDENT, SHARES SOME LOCAL FAVORITES AND FINDS.

The Town of Huntersville will celebrate 150 years as a municipality in 2023 with a full year of activities planned!

NOON YEAR’S

EVE CELEBRATION - Dec. 31, 2022

Join us at Birkdale Village as we ring in the new year with family-friendly activities from 10 a.m. - Noon and kickoff our year-long Sesquicentennial Celebration!

For more information and updated list of events, visit www.huntersville.org/2950/150th-Anniversary-Celebration

We know how busy life can get—kids, work, family, friends … sometimes just getting dinner on the table is a Herculean feat! So in an effort to save our readers some time, effort, and money here are a few tips, tricks, and hacks that might come in handy in your busy world!

You’ll thank yourself next year.

Use egg cartons to store ornaments; a plastic hanger is a great way to keep string lights untangled.

Picture It!

Instead of using the same old standard gift tags, use your favorite photos for a truly personal touch.

TIPS, & HACKS

'TIS THE SEASON EDITION

Festive and Tidy

So you don’t have a big black lawn bag in your living room, gift wrap a large box for all the holiday refuse.

Caramel Coffee Delight

1/2 cup milk; 2 tbs caramel sauce; 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 cup co ee. Combine milk, caramel sauce, and cocoa powder in a small saucepan. Heat until warm, stirring well to dissolve caramel sauce and cocoa powder. Add co ee and whisk until frothy.

Stamp of Approval

Use the base of a crystal vase or drinking glass to stamp out a unique cookie dough design that will make your holiday treats extra festive!

WORDS matter

Words are magic. They actually change our brain chemistry! As wordsmiths here at LKNW, we are especially fond of words that will resonate with our readers, in hopes they will help guide & inspire you.

Cut these out & use for inspiration wherever you need it!

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS

I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.

–CHARLES DICKENS

Whatever is beautiful, whatever is meaningful, whatever brings you happiness.

May it be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year.

“

The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest of intention.

–ANNE FRANK

–OSCAR WILDE

–A HOLIDAY BLESSING

BETTER ME BETTER YOU BETTER WORLD

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.

10 WAYS TO RELIEVE

HOLIDAY ANXIETY

THE HOLIDAYS CAN bring on a host of anxiety despite it being a most magical time of year. While family gatherings, holiday shopping, and festive parties can bring a lot of joy into your life, they can also trigger feelings of anxiousness.

When we feel anxiety, our heart energy system, according to traditional Chinese medicine, is often out of balance resulting in palpitations, heaviness in the chest, anxiousness and panic, and shortness of breath. To ensure that you stay in the spirit of the holidays try to incorporate these tips to balance your heart energy:

1

WEAR SEA-BANDS

Sea-Bands are wrist bands that people often wear for motion sickness, but they are also great for treating anxiety. Sea-Bands press on the acupuncture point Pericardium 6 which balances your heart energy, opens the chest, and reduces anxiety. Wear them day and night as needed.

2 RUB YOUR EAR LOBES

There are several acupuncture points on the ear to relieve anxiety and calm the mind. Rub the top of your ear lobe to activate the point, Shen Men, or rub the lower ear lobe to activate Master Cerebral which reduces anxiety, fear, and worry.

3 MEDITATION – FOCUS ON YOUR BREATH

Meditation is a great way to relieve anxiety by encouraging mindfulness of your breath. Taking five minutes to sit in silence and focus on the inhale and exhale of your breath will activate your parasympathetic nervous system and reduce your anxiety.

4 TRY ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture is a pain-free and natural way to work with your body to reduce stress and relieve anxiety. Select acupuncture points will help balance and strengthen your heart energy system so that you feel calm—all while getting a much-needed nap!

5

PRACTICE EARTHING

Earthing is a great way to relieve anxiety by balancing your body’s energy with the Earth’s electromagnetic field. Take a moment to

press your bare feet into the grass or dig your hands into your garden to soak up the Earth’s electrons to relax your sympathetic nervous system.

6 PRACTICE GRATITUDE

Each day, take a moment to write down ten things you are grateful for. When we express gratitude, we activate certain neural circuits in the brain which release the happy hormones dopamine and serotonin.

7 DETOX FROM MEDIA

This holiday, take a break from watching the news or using social media. Research has shown watching negatively-focused news broadcasts can make you more anxious, so tune off the tube to reduce your anxiety.

8 TAKE MAGNESIUM

Magnesium has anxiety-relieving properties and is a great supplement to take to help you feel more calm and to improve your sleep.

9 INCREASE DARK LEAFY GREENS

Between holiday treats, increase your dark leafy greens intake. When our heart blood is full and strong, our emotions feel more calm and grounded. Build up your blood by eating more dark, leafy greens this holiday.

10

DO SOMETHING THAT GIVES YOU JOY

The heart energy system is connected to the emotion joy. Be sure to take moments out of your busy schedule to do something that gives you joy to balance your heart energy and reduce anxiety. w

Leslie Murphy is an acupuncturist and owner of Balanced Health Acupuncture in Cornelius. You can learn more about her services and schedule an appointment by visiting www.balancedhealthacu.com.

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