Lake Norman Woman Magazine September 2021

the path to

debt-free college pg. 22

The Corona Pivot: An LKN Entrepreneur Forges A New Path pg. 48

pets

are family too!

LKNW ANNUAL PET PAGES pg. 28

featuring

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FROM THE

WOMEN power DURING A RECENT FAMILY BEACH VACATION, my sons, now grown

and on their own, discovered that I am fun. It was quite the shock to them. Until then they had been convinced that I was one of the biggest control freaks on the planet—and because of that, quite the partypooper, too. After all, I did spend the first 20 or so years of their lives telling them what to do, when to do it, and how to do it.

On the beach trips of yore, while the kids tried to frolic in the surf, I barked out orders about swimming out too far or reapplying sunscreen, about how and where to ride a wave, exactly where to lay a beach towel, when to eat a snack, what to eat for that snack, and how to throw the bocce ball, when to throw the bocce ball, and where to throw the bocce ball. I’m fairly certain the only fun they had on those vacations was when they weren’t in my line of sight.

If I’m being honest, I have to admit that even though they’re grown, I still have the urge to shower my sons with “helpful hints.” (They use another not-as-nice word for said hints.) But believe it or not, I am coming to understand that just because I’m their mother, that doesn’t mean I automatically know what’s best for them. As young adults (despite my hints that they might be making bad choices) they’ve made decisions I was sure would result in catastrophe. A few did. Many, though, ended up having wonderful outcomes. So I’m learning to let go, relax a bit, smile more, and enjoy my sons for who they are, with their own quirks, points of view, and interests. In return, they’re able to relax and enjoy my company more now, too—they didn’t try to get out of my line of sight even once on this trip.

But never in my wildest dreams did I ever see myself loosening up enough to play a tremendously off-color, quite tasteless, often inappropriate, dark and funny party game with them. No way. Hard “no.” And yet, gathered around a table full of the people I love most as we all guffawed with reckless abandon, my rigid rules for appropriate behavior didn’t seem important at all. It didn’t even bother me that my sons knew the meaning of several words I didn’t, and upon learning from them what those words meant, found myself really wishing I hadn’t asked. What was meaningful to me at that moment was the love and laughter filling the room—and my heart.

It’s unclear to me why or how sharing our vulgar vocabulary with one another or drawing less-thanwholesome pictures turned me into a fun mom. I’ve got to believe there must be G-rated ways of accomplishing the same thing, any of which I highly recommend. But then again, maybe the how isn’t important—what matters is maximizing the moments and reveling in family togetherness—especially if, like my family, the same twisted sense of humor brings you all closer. You know what they say, after all: “Blessed be the ties that bind!” w

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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.

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SEPTEMBER 2021

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CELEBRATING THE

SUCCESS

OF

WOMEN

contents SEPTEMBER 2021

16

pg

NAVIGATING PERSONALITY DIFFERENCES IN YOUR FAMILY

family

annual

48

Navigating Personality Differences In Your Family

pet pages!

24

29

LKN's Cutest Pet Ever 2021 Winner!

30

Pets Are Family!

features

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Don't Forget To Pack The Chew-Toy!

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Dog Food No-No's

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protecting

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BUSINESS INSURANCE

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pg PHOTO: CHELSEA BREN

SEPTEMBER 2021

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20 26

48

GOOD CLEAN FUN

10

Stepping Into Step-Families

34

marilyn cunningham

with

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53

SUCCESS STORY:

Making Every Day Its Own Victory HERE SHE IS:

Lynn Bowser

COVER STORY:

Ignite Your Passion!

WOMAN TO WATCH:

Marilyn Cunningham

THAT'S WHAT HE SAID:

John McKeown

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TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH PETS

8 THINGS:

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lynn bowser

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL OF LAKE NORMAN

COLLEGE DORM MUST-HAVES!

food 52

Asian Chicken Salad

PHOTO: PHOTOGRAPHY 44

home 50

INSIDE DESIGN WITH STARR MILLER:

Selecting A Home Builder

health 42

The Wisdom Behind Wisdom Teeth

44

Is It Food Allergy?

Then What?

54

Mental Health Awareness: Squashing The Stigma

56

TIPS, TRICKS, & HACKS:

Kitchen Edition!

20

self 22

Your Path To Debt-Free College

38

Happiness Is . . .

A Good Massage!

62

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT:

A Moonlit Life

willetta jones ABIDING GRACE

PHOTO: TONI LOVEJOY

ON THE COVER: DEBRA ENGELHARDT-NASH OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY OF THE CAROLINAS P H OTO G R A P H Y B Y: CHELSEA BREN

in every issue 12

LIVE, LEARN, GROW

60

WORDS MATTER

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LIVE, LEARN,

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:

A LIFE FULL OF GRATITUDE

BEATING THE ODDS

Meet Willetta Jones on PAGE 20 who shows us all what determination, hard work, and perseverance look like. Being born prematurely and barely surviving her own birth, Willetta would go on to do great things and overcome every obstacle that was placed in front of her. See how following her dreams led her and her husband to launch Abiding Grace, a service that provides one-on-one support, understanding, care, comfort, and tools for those struggling with grief.

12

SEPTEMBER 2021

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

One of just six women nationally who is a managing director at Northwestern Mutual who also has a personal advisory practice, Lynn Bowser (Northwestern Mutual of Lake Norman in Huntersville) shares some valuable insights on PAGE 26.

REINVENTING YOURSELF

THAT’S WHAT HE SAID

As much as we love sharing women’s stories, we can’t overlook our fellas! This month we share the perspectives of John McKeown, the managing partner of Spray-Net Carolinas in Concord. Skip on over to PAGE 53 to discover how to infuse your life with optimism.

After almost losing her daughter twice from an illness she contracted while on a fast-food restaurant playground, Marilyn Cunningham, owner of Good Clean Fun and Good Clean Fun Products in Cornelius, got through those challenging times only to nearly lose her businesses during Covid. Be sure to read her remarkable story on PAGE 48.

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Debra Engelhardt-Nash—who manages multiple businesses, including Cosmetic Dentistry of the Carolinas in Huntersville, and volunteers much of her time towards meaningful causes as well— is our September Cover Girl. Rush on over to PAGE 34 and see how a real pro juggles it all!

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13

FAMILY

stepping into

step-families For more information on step-families, visit www.empoweringparents.com.

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and the multitude of challenges that inevitably accompany this new, modern-day version of “normal.” However, anyone who has ever taken that step into step-families—whether child or parent—can relate to the fact that it is a mountain to climb. Add grandparents and other extended family members into the mix, and it can quickly become Mount Everest!

If you are facing this new and exciting (and challenging!) family construct, here are some points to consider:

MO ST OF US TH E SE DAYS A R E N OT ST R A N G E R S TO STE P- FA M I LI E S

Don’t override or criticize. While you do want to create a positive, loving

relationship with your step-child, don’t try to compete with their biological parents. The kids may be feeling guilt in terms of the divorce itself as well as some level of guilt for developing a loving relationship with a step-parent. Let them know you support them and respect the relationship they have with their parents.

Establish healthy boundaries.

Even though the biological parent should deliver the punishment, step-parents and stepchildren should still maintain a proper parent/ child relationship. It’s ok to be their friend, but you are still a parent and a role model and should be seen in that capacity.

Parents, not step-parents, should do the dirty work. Most experts

agree that it is dangerous territory for the step-parent to dole out the punishment. It is important to agree on household rules and discipline, but step-parents should take a back seat when it comes to being the disciplinarian.

Create a special relationship with your stepchildren.

It can be a delicate and difficult balance to strike, but it is important to be an ally and supporter for your step-kids. Although you have to establish those healthy boundaries (as mentioned above), you still want to have their trust and to let them know you’re on their side. w

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FAMILY

mentoring

moments with M I C H E L L E

navigating personality differences in your family WO ULDN’T IT B E WO N DE R FU L

if all our family members came with an owner’s manual? In a perfect world, a family is a beautifully blended group of people who are united together with selfless love and genuine concern and care for each other. Reality is, that we can live together, celebrate together, and even vacation together, but not actually understand each other.

Families are melting pots of differing personality styles. Sometimes, because of a lack of understanding each other’s personality styles, the pots can boil over.

In many workplaces, employees have been given opportunities to identify their personality styles and those of others. Employers who know such knowledge can strengthen the ability to relate well to clients and co-workers. If personality assessment tools are valuable to organizations, why not utilize them to increase our understanding of the people we do life with the most – our family?

The DiSC is an acronym that explains four main personality categories: D: Dominance – a person who tends to be confident and place an emphasis on accomplishing bottomline results. They are direct, strongwilled, and forceful.

I: Influence – a person who tends to be more open and place an emphasis on relationships and influencing or persuading others. They are sociable, talkative, and lively.

S: Steadiness – a person who tends to be dependable and place the emphasis on cooperation and sincerity. They are gentle, accommodating, and soft-hearted.

C: Conscientiousness – a person who tends to place the emphasis on quality, accuracy, expertise, and competency. They are private, analytical, and logical.

Personality is complex, however, there are many tools available to help you distill what makes a family member tick. Personally, I think the DiSC personality profile tool lends itself well to developing a “common family language.” DiSC

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profiles describe human behavior in various situations, for example how you respond to challenges, how you influence others, and how you respond to rules and procedures.

When our family took an assessment, it was apparent I tend towards having a “D” style which is task-oriented, direct, decisive, and likes to lead. On the other hand,

my son is predominately an “I” personality. His people-oriented style is characterized by behavior that is sociable, independent, and more concerned with popularity than tangible results. Seeing ourselves through the DiSC, we gained a healthy understanding of the ways we were opposite. During his teenage years, acknowledging these differences helped us avoid stalemates in our conversations.

Our challenging discussions became more respectful and, at times, even humorous as we acknowledged “oh that’s your D talking.”

DiSC helps family members be less judgmental and identify adjustments that need to be made with others. Making adjustments will take practice. Fortunately, with family you will have plenty of opportunities.

Readily available online, taking the assessment only takes 7 minutes to complete, but the practical insights gained may last a lifetime. Or at a minimum, your next family gathering might be the best one ever. w Michelle Hoverson is the author of Mentoring Moments with Myself – a collection of letters to her younger self on life, faith, love and leadership. Follow her on facebook @ Mentoring Moments With Michelle.

WRITER MICHELLE HOVERSON

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FEATURE

success story And she was. Though small enough to be carried in a shoe box, baby Willetta grew into a strong and healthy adolescent, standing just shy of six feet in high school. Then, like her mother, she thumbed her nose at the dismal odds facing African American women desiring a higher education and graduated from Western Michigan University and then earned a master’s degree in education at Purdue University. The first college Willetta attended was Baker University in Kansas. “There were only 13 Black students on the campus,” recalls Willetta, adding, “but the odds were what I made them. It was a very challenging experience, to say the least.”

making

every day

its own

victory

IN 1949, A PREMATURE BABY had dismal prospects for

survival. But Willetta Collins, arriving three months early and weighing only 1 pound, 12 ounces, paid no mind to the statistics.

Already she was taking after her parents, both of whom—with steadfast determination—pursued excellence throughout their lives.

Willetta’s mother set the family tone for beating the odds by graduating from Philander Smith College in 1940 when only two percent of African American women attended college. Willetta’s father exhibited that same fierce resolve not only professionally, but when it came to his newborn daughter as well: when doctors said they had done all they could for his baby girl, he responded determinedly, “I’m taking her home. She is going to be just fine.”

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After graduate school, Willetta accepted a position in Baltimore teaching emotionally handicapped students. It was in Maryland that she met her husband of 43 years, Horatio “Bill” Jones, who was one of the first Black news directors in the country. As Bill worked his way up the corporate ladder at CBS, the couple welcomed their son, Horatio William Jones, IV, and eventually landed in Charlotte. After 10 years in the University area, the Jones family moved to Stratford Forest in Cornelius, where they found their forever home. “We were the first African American family in the neighborhood,” Willetta remembers, “and we were accepted with open arms. We are truly blessed to be a part of this community.”

Though Willetta enjoyed teaching and then retirement, she held a dream deep in her heart of helping others turn their despair into hope, inspiring her to start a second career as a certified grief coach. Together with Bill, she launched Abiding Grace, a service that provides one-on-one support, understanding, care, comfort, and tools for those struggling with grief. The tools come in the form of individual sessions and packages that fit each client’s needs. “Loss comes in many forms,” says Willetta, “and grieving is an individual process. I hope to become an instrument of change that helps those in pain transform their loss into a wealth of life's victories.”

Willetta is quick to admit that she doesn’t have the answer to all the “why” questions. But she will help her clients bawl, laugh, talk, journal, and whatever it takes for them to move through their grief to their new normal—a place of gratitude. And perhaps just as importantly, she encourages those grieving to go easy on themselves if they’re not moving forward as quickly as they’d like—"It’s so important to not give up!” she asserts. “Give yourself grace and grant yourself permission, space, and time. Whatever you do, don’t give up—you are still here, and you are not alone.” w WRITER DANA JORDAN

PHOTOGRAPHER TONI LOVEJOY

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SELF

LKNW HALL PASS:

your inside guide to education with S H A W N H A L L

LKN EXPERT

Welcome to our new column LKNW Hall Pass: Your Inside Guide to Education With Shawn Hall. Shawn resides in Mooresville and is a former Education Specialist with the U.S. Dept. of Education. She is a mom of four girls, an author, and a college admissions/scholarship coach. Shawn will be giving us her advice and insights on a variety of topics in the education arena, and we look forward to having her as a regular contributor and LKNW expert. For more information, visit allroadseducation.com.

your path to

debt-free

college

A HHH S E PTE M B E R !

Can’t you smell the

turning of the season? The apples from the trees? The fear in the air from parents with high school students preparing for college? Yep! The scramble is on to figure out the schools, the application process, and yes, the money to pay for it all. Grab your highlighter, a cup of something to sip, and allow me to map out the path to debt-free college.

First stop, course selection for high school.

Can I just be real? You need to be involved in the course selection process every step of the way. Make sure you know what courses are needed to graduate AND allow your child to be accepted into the University of North Carolina College System. The Career and College Promise is offered at every community college. The built-in scholarship comes in the form of a student taking college courses while in high school, the state picking up the tab for the courses, and the student can transfer that course to their college! My daughter graduated in May and was able to earn 24 college credits and transfer them to her

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WRITER SHAWN HALL

university. She had already earned a full-ride academic scholarship so college credits she knocked down in high school? Those will result in a free year towards her master’s degree! Are you getting the picture?

Second stop, standardized test scores.

Now before you roll your eyes, this is the part where I need you to come close and listen. It is true that many colleges and universities are dispensing with requiring the ACT or SAT for college admissions. Quiet as it is kept, many of the institutional and portable (ones that go wherever you go) scholarships, still require those tests! The higher the test scores, the greater the levels of funding your student is eligible to receive. So what to do? Have your child take BOTH practice tests the summer before 10th grade. Laser-in on the one they felt they performed the best on and prep for the real test using an in-person or virtual service to guide them through the mechanics of the test. EVERY college accepts both tests and one isn’t better than the other.

Third stop, scholarships.

I know this is where you wanted me to start but you don’t get here without doing the other steps.

Scholarships can be earned as early as kindergarten so start your search engines NOW! Is your child a great photographer or speaker? There’s money for that even if they don’t want to pursue that path in college.

Use this formula: interests + academics + community service. Manage your time and write down your goals.

The early bird can get plenty of worms depending on how EARLY she starts hunting. Our hunt led to a $100k college degree that my oldest paid less than $15k for and the middle child earned over $500k in scholarships (two were full-ride merit offers). Need a boost of confidence and a shot of reality? You know where to find me! w

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FAMILY

8things

Surge protector power strip

Bedside organizer

Mattress topper with hypoallergenic cover

Campus

Dorm must haves

Shower caddy tote

THESE OVERLOOKED ITEMS NEED TO MAKE IT ON THE LIST!

Battery operated clip-on fan

FirstAid Kit

Multi-layered, space-saving hangers

Seats with storage

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SEPTEMBER 2021

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FEATURE

Since this is our annual family edition, can you tell us about yours?

here she is

My husband, Ryan, and I are both from Central New York and have three children: Caitlyn (15); Michael (13); and Emily (11). We met on a train ride from NYC to Syracuse. I sat next to him, and the rest is history … we married in 2005. I attended Syracuse University and studied piano performance, after which I worked in admissions (not a lot of demand for concert pianists in Central New York). When Ryan and I had Caitlyn, we decided it was best for me to stay home. I spent the next eight years raising kids, taking care of my grandmother (“Gram”), giving piano lessons, and leading the youth choir at our church.

Which realm of your work life is most gratifying?

I am one of six women managing directors nationally at Northwestern Mutual who also has a personal advisory practice. I LOVE doing what I do. This opportunity changed our lives in so many ways, and I am forever grateful. It’s the greatest honor to help clients create and implement meaningful financial plans. I get to help them achieve their financial goals and be there for major life events — engagements, marriages, births, first homes, business purchases and sales, promotions, and other milestones. Helping families preserve and protect their legacies is an awesome privilege.

lynn

What helped fuel your passion?

After my Gram passed and two of my three babies were in school, I went back to Syracuse and studied management with a concentration in economics. I was invited to join Northwestern Mutual in 2014. I never imagined becoming a financial advisor; however, once I started to do some research, I found that the industry is lopsided when it comes to gender and race—85 percent of financial advisors are men and 75 percent are white. I knew I had an incredible opportunity to impact these statistics, especially when I accepted the Managing Director role where I have a big responsibility of recruiting new advisors to work in the Lake Norman office.

How have your challenges strengthened you?

My proudest moment was having the honor of being by my Gram’s side when she passed away. My Gram was my person, and it was so hard to be there at the end, but I am so grateful that I was able to be brave and do it. The second big event for me was the loss of my best friend Kristen in 2018.

She was an advisor alongside me, and we were the only women in our firm at the time. She was only 33 years old. She was a firecracker and AMAZING at what she did.

Her clients adored her. To see someone so young, making such an impact, and having so much light surrounding her go dark was a life-changing moment for me.

Whenever this life gets hard, I fight for her. She inspires me every day.

bowser

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Lynn Bowser is the managing director and financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual of Lake Norman, located at 9713 Northcross Center Court, Suite 300, in Huntersville. Contact Lynn at 704.494.8077 or visit her today at www.LynnBowser.nm.com.

PHOTOGRAPHER PHOTOGRAPHY 44 (CRAIG REYNOLDS)

Guiding You From Pain to Peace, From Sadness to Love

MOVE BETTER, FEEL BETTER, DONE .

Loss comes in many forms. It may be the loss of a job, a relationship or changes in health or retirement or transition of a loved-one from this life to the next. Please allow yourself to grieve in YOUR way and time. Let me guide you through the process to change your despair into hope.

COME DISCOVER US!

NOT YOUR AV E R AG E

Take advantage of our 30-minute complimentary consultation which includes a postural analysis.

P ILAT E S ST UDIO. Beyond Pilates, we have specialized training to help those with back issues, back surgery, scoliosis, osteoporosis/osteopenia. The more adventurous could take

Grief Coaching with Willetta Jones

Free 30-Minute Consultation

Grief coaching promotes and encourages individuals, families or groups to reconnect with strengths, coping skills and relationships through activities and internal resources that provide meaning for life.

Free 30-minute consultation provides you with the opportunity to ask questions. It is a great time to decide if we are the right Grief Coaches for you.

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advantage of Yoga Trapeze®, or flexibility and mobility training utilizing Gravity Yoga®. The Alexander Technique can address posture, movement, and habit for total body immersion learning.

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Pilates and Movement Center

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ANNUAL PET PAGES

A N NO U NC I NG T H I S Y E A R ' S

winner!

Every summer LKNW launches a contest to find the cutest ever pet in Lake Norman! This year's 95 incredibly cute contestants each had so much fandom, it was not at all easy to decide on a favorite. But there could only be one winning photo, & the adorable dog duo, Brutus and Chip Colgrove, brought in the most votes! Congratulations to the newly crowned “Cutest Pets in LKN” and pet parent, Traci Colgrove, too!

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ANNUAL PET PAGES

t s e t u c ever!

LKN'S

245

LIKES

runner - up:

PET

CLAIRE SUBMITTED BY DIANA SCHUTZ

887

LIKES

BRUTUS & CHIP SUBMITTED BY TRACI COLGROVE

LET THE

Pampering

BEGIN!

Pet Lodging | Daycare Spa | Training PamperedPetsInn.com w OM AN.C OM

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ANNUAL PET PAGES

pets

family are

!

FOR MOST OF US, PETS ARE NOT JUST ANIMALS,

they are our best friends, our confidantes, and

yes, a treasured part of the family. They steal our

hearts with their unconditional loyalty and love, so it’s actually fairly easy to treat them like the family members they truly are. After all the joy they bring to us, it only seems fair to show our pets how much they mean to the entire family by giving them our very best in return. Here are some tips on making sure our furry family members thrive.

keep your pet

healthy

Just like with human health, prevention is the key to treating a multitude of conditions that can affect our dogs and cats. Sure, they will always need your love and companionship, but there are plenty of other things you can do to make sure that your dog or cat is living life to its fullest. For one, you should take your pet to visit a veterinarian at least once a year. There, the staff can help you make decisions about vaccinations, parasite prevention, and spaying or neutering. You’ll also want to keep your pet at a healthy weight by feeding them a nutritious diet and giving them plenty of exercise.

Despite our best efforts, though, sometimes our pets get sick or hurt. DENVER ANIMAL EMERGENCY (1420 NC-16 Business, Denver; 980-222-7115) is aware that many pets get sick or injured while all other surrounding animal hospitals are closed, and that early detection and medical attention can be key to saving a pet’s life. The staff at Denver Animal also understands how stressful such situations are for both pets and their parents and so they strive to create as positive of an experience as possible. The highly skilled team of veterinarians at Denver Animal Emergency does so by offering state-of-the-art, compassionate care for challenging conditions and by being there for you and your pet when you need help the most.

give them

boundaries

Setting firm, clear, and (most importantly) consistent boundaries for your dog is a great way to help curb behavioral issues, both as a puppy and later in life.

Setting boundaries for your dog will result in a happier and more fulfilling dog-parent relationship. It will also make it easier for your pet to adjust to his family role and understand your expectations, not to mention aiding in breaking any bad habits. Dogs like to please their owners, but they need to know what the rules are in order to live successfully in our human world.

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provide

rewards & treats

Dogs are a social species, just like humans and both can benefit from the social aspect that displaying love and affection through the sharing of yummy treats provides. That’s why Heather Mclean decided to combine her love of animals with her second passion in life, cooking. The result is YAPPY HOUR BAKERY (704-750-9357; www.yappyhourbakery), the Greater Charlotte area’s very first dog treat truck. Heather visits various locations around the lake (visit the website to see the schedule) with a truck load of dog biscuits, ice cream, cakes, and other products that are as unique and fun as our tail-waggin' friends. The gourmet treats are available in a variety of shapes and sizes for all occasions, are handmade and free of preservatives.

And though you’re certain to find the Yappy Hour truck around the Lake Norman area visiting pet-friendly facilities or making deliveries, you can also get the treats at a number of Lake Norman retail locations.

ALL ABOUT

provide excellent care when you're away Leaving one’s pet behind during a vacation should not be stressful. That’s why choosing a great dog boarding facility is so important. PAMPERED PETS INN in Mooresville (2993 Charlotte Hwy 21; 980-447-2023) offers luxurious, stateof-the-art boarding and care for both canines and felines. Cats stay in their private condos, separate from the dogs, and receive daily wellness checks, playtime, and room service. Canine lodgers enjoy a luxurious, private suite as well, with an attentive staff carefully monitoring their well-being and providing everything they need to feel right at home—including a dip in the pool or a spa treatment! You can also bring Fido in for a play date or some training—the staff at Pampered Pets Inn knows life with your dog is more enjoyable when he has outlets for his energy and knows the rules.

celebrate your

love

for your

pets

A pet owner’s worst fear is losing a beloved companion.

PET PILGRIMAGE CREMATORY & MEMORIALS (Two locations: 494 East Plaza Dr., Mooresville, 704-6645484; 2279 N. NC-16 Business Hwy., Denver, 704-9662376) understands that the death of a pet can be a truly traumatic experience , which is why they offer pet cremation and memorial services that are equal to the services you expect for all family members. By having a private on-site pet crematory and compassionate dedicated staff, they can assure your faithful companion will be treated with the care and respect they deserve. w

Pets

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ANNUAL PET PAGES

DON’T FORGET TO PACK THE CHEW-TOY!

TIPS FOR TRAVELING WITH YOUR PET we’re ready to hit the road, explore the beaches, or perhaps just camp out under the stars. And if you’re like most of us, leaving our furbabies behind is tough … or not an option at all! In order to include furry family members in your plans, here are some travel tips to consider before you pack your “doggie-bag” –

NOW THAT T R AV E L IS B ACK O N O U R AG E N DA ,

PLAN A PRE-TRIP VISIT WITH YOUR VET.

Confirm that vaccinations are up-to-date and your pet is healthy enough to travel.

Make sure dogs and cats have a microchip and wear a collar with an identification tag that includes your name and phone number.

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BRING A LITTLE TASTE OF HOME.

WHEN THE ROAD GETS BUMPY.

It is important to bring along a familiar bed, pillow, blanket, and favorite toys. Anything that smells like “home” will be of comfort on the road or in the air. Also, keep dogs and cats safe and secure with a well-ventilated crate or carrier.

Benadryl will help your dog with motion sickness but consult your vet first. Feed pets a few hours prior to departure and maintain regular diet routines.

This will not only help with their digestion, but it provides comfort when your pet may be feeling disoriented or anxious in unfamiliar environments.

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CREATE A PET-FRIENDLY TRAVEL KIT.

Include food and treats, collapsible bowls, a leash, grooming supplies, poopscoop and plastic bags, medications, and plenty of fresh water.

DO SOME RESEARCH.

Be sure to bring a copy of your pet’s medical record and do some research to find pet-friendly accommodations, parks, activities, etc.

And know how to access veterinary care away from home.

AAA has a complete pet travel guide. For more information visit www.aaa.com/ pettravel. w

ANNUAL PET PAGES

NUTS

Your Dog CAN Have: Peanuts Cashews Hazelnuts

DOG FOOD

NUTS

Your Dog CANNOT Have:

NO-NO'S BONES: While it may seem

natural to give your dog a bone, they can splinter and cause tears in your dog’s esophagus, stomach, and intestines, creating a host of problems.

AVOCADOS: Containing a substance called persin, avocados can be toxic to your dog, including guacamole. If you grow avocados at home, keep your dog away from the plants. Persin is in the leaves, seeds, and bark as well.

ONIONS: This includes powdered, raw, cooked, or dehydrated.

Onions contain thiosulphate which can destroy a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia.

CAFFEINE: If a dog consumes too much it is fatal, and there is no antidote. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors, and fits.

Caffeine is one of the reasons dogs can’t have chocolate.

Almonds Walnuts Macadamia Nuts Pecans Pistachios Hickory Nuts

FRUITS & VEGGIES

GRAPES AND RAISINS:

Your Dog CAN Have:

Although research has yet to discover why, grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs.

It only takes a small amount to make a dog ill, causing repeated vomiting, lethargy, and depression. The fruit can also lead to kidney failure.

Apples Bananas Watermelon Strawberries Oranges Blueberries Carrots Pineapple Broccoli Cucumbers Celery Pears Potatoes Peaches Sweet Potatoes Raspberries Mango

MACADAMIA NUTS: As few as six raw or roasted macadamias can make your dog sick. According to petMD, “Symptoms of poisoning include muscle tremors, weakness or paralysis of the hindquarters, vomiting, elevated body temperature, and rapid heart rate.”

CANDY: All kinds of candy, baked goods, and some diet foods are sweetened with xylitol which can cause more insulin to circulate through your dog’s body; subsequently his blood sugar drops substantially.

FRUITS & VEGGIES Your Dog CANNOT Have: Grapes Tomatoes Avocados Mushrooms Onions Cherries Asparagus

PERSIMMONS, PEACHES, AND PLUMS: The problem with these fruits is the seeds or pits which can cause inflammation and obstruction of the small intestine. Also, peach and plum pits contain cyanide! w

For more information on what you can and cannot give your pets, visit www.petmd.com.

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FEATURE

coverstory

ignit e passion!

YOUR

WRITER KATHRYN ANN HORNBERGER

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PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN

s

he's described as an icon by her professional peers in dentistry, but Debra Engelhardt-Nash is much too authentic to be limited to icon status. Debra is handson with mentoring and teaching, and as a speaker and presenter, her professional status extends beyond national recognition. To say she is busy may be the understatement of the year!

“I manage three businesses,” Debra explains, “the dental practice, our teaching facility (The Nash Institute for Dental Learning, which offers post-graduate training for dentists and team members), and my own consulting and speaking business—as well as my husband Ross’s speaking engagements. I also work with Justice Ministries and speak on human trafficking and dentistry to raise community awareness … and I do volunteer work in other areas as well.”

Debra’s career has been a consistent pursuit of excellence and innovation, with emphasis not only on dental practice management, but also on personalized patient experiences and satisfaction. Her approach to customized practice management, which focuses on patient-centric goals, was a novel idea in the mid-1980s; and when the practice management firm she worked for did not have her vision, she summoned her entrepreneurial spirit, made a bold move, and went out on her own.

“In 1985, I started my own consulting company,” Debra relays, “helping healthcare professionals and their teams increase their patient satisfaction, their professional satisfaction, and improve their productivity.” Debra's professional contributions include speaking engagements, on-site seminars, and podcasts—all of which have firmly established her as an industry expert.

“I speak nationally and internationally on practice management and team development and write for healthcare journals. I have spoken in over a dozen foreign countries and almost every state in the nation, as well as Canada,” she explains.

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Debra's early years were met with circumstances that would teach her to handle the unexpected and to create her own successes in life. After her parents divorced when she was just a young girl, Debra's mother was declared incompetent, and Debra became a foster child at age 15.

Determined to move forward with her life, she was legally emancipated by age 17 and attended the University of California at Long Beach where she obtained a degree in secondary education. Her career trajectory changed when she found herself being offered a job in a dental practice.

“I was recruited by my dentist to work in his office,” Debra recalls. “My degree is in liberal arts/secondary education, so working in a profession involving the sciences seemed a bit of a stretch. I learned very early that whether it be healthcare or childcare or any type of service, it’s about people … and I can do that!”

Debra's people skills have been one of her core proficiencies in developing her career, but it's her persistence and determination that have seen her through the most challenges—with not only her career, but with her health.

In 2011, Debra was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

My brain tumor may have been the worst and the best thing that happened to us.

“My biggest life obstacle was in 2011 when I lost the strength of my right side,” Debra recounts.

“I was diagnosed with a benign meningioma and Ross was told I would probably not gain the use of my right side and have to walk with the aid of a cane or walker.

Would I be able to work again?

Would I be able to nimbly travel?

What would my audiences or clients think (if they would even retain me)? There was so much going through my mind.”

The brain tumor was one of those significant emotional occurrences that forces you to put your life and its priorities in perspective. Debra adds: “In almost an instant, that which seemed so significant became meaningless.

Ross was amazing throughout the entire process— intensive care, rehabilitation, and recovery. I had to learn to walk again. The strength of my family and the trueness of friends was revealed. Our faith deepened and my strength of will was apparent. My brain tumor may have been the worst and the best thing that happened to us. I was told I would be in physical rehabilitation 3-5 weeks.

I walked out, unaided, in 11 days. I went back to work as soon as I got the doctor’s approval.”

Debra’s spirited determination has led to her being recognized as an industry powerhouse. Her work has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. She has been named among the “Top 25 Women in Dentistry” and as a leader in dental education and consulting. She received the Outstanding Lecturer Award in Dentistry in 2015 and serves on the American Dental Association Practice Management Advisory Board, in addition to serving on the board of two dental organizations.

“I was a founding member and served three terms as president of the Academy of Dental Management Consultants and was given their Lifetime Achievement and Spirit of Leader Award in 2019,” Debra shares. “I also received the Speaking Consulting Network Lifetime Achievement Award in June of this year. All of these acknowledgements say to me that I have served my colleagues, my clients, and my industry well and that gives me great pride.”

As for the future, Debra says she would like to read and write more; get off the beaten path and discover new places and experiences; continue to grow and learn in her industry; and to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.

“I like getting things done,” Debra emphasizes. “I love working around the house as much as I love my job, so a perfect day for me would mean that I accomplished something noticeable … something that made a difference.

Then I can settle back with my amazing husband and end the evening with a well-prepared meal and a great glass of red wine.” w

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SELF

happiness is …

a good massage! which one is right for you?

of years and if you want a massage in today’s world, you can choose from about 80 massage therapy styles— with a variety of pressures, movements, and techniques. According to the American Massage Therapy Association, in 2020 approximately 20 percent of all Americans had some form of massage on a regular basis. More and more people recognize the benefits of massage to help with an array of health conditions and to promote overall wellness. With so much to choose from, here is a bit of clarity: MA S S AGE H A S B E E N PR ACT ICE D FO R T H O U S A N D S

Swedish Massage is the most common and best-known type of massage. It involves long, fluid strokes of muscles and tissues with pressure that varies from light to medium to firm. Add heated stones, and hot stone massage therapy will lead to enhanced relaxation. It is recommended for individuals suffering from fibromyalgia, arthritis, or other chronic pain.

Deep Tissue Massage is a deeper, more intense massage. This technique uses slow, deep-guided strokes and firm pressure designed to relieve severe tension and reach below the superficial muscles. This type of massage is often recommended for individuals who experience consistent pain and soreness in both large and small muscle groups.

Sports Massage can enable you to move your body more freely with more flexibility and in time can improve your posture. As the name suggests, it is popular with athletes, as it enhances performance, assists recovery, and prevents injury.

Oncology Massage uses existing massage therapy techniques and tailors them in order to safely work with the complications of cancer and cancer treatment.

Essential aspects of an oncology massage therapist’s skill set are an informed understanding of the disease itself and the many ways it can affect the human body, as well as a keen understanding of the side-effects of cancer treatments.

LKN EXPERT

Trigger Point Massage uses concentrations of finger pressure on each trigger point to prevent cycles of muscle pain and spasms.

Trigger points are sore, painful spots that occur in a muscle.

Most people refer to trigger points as knots. They are called trigger points because they “trigger” a painful response that often refers pain to different parts of your body.

Prenatal Massage is a nurturing massage that focuses on the special needs of mothersto-be during pregnancy.

Positioning, pillows, and cushions are used to enhance support, decrease pressure, and increase relaxation for both body and mind. Relief of stress on feet, ankles, lower back, and neck, as well as reducing swelling, are all benefits of a prenatal massage.

Himalayan Salt Stone Massage provides 84 essential minerals including iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and more. Heated salt stones generate negative ions shown to help create a sense of peace and a deeper sense of relaxation. It allows minerals to penetrate deep into muscles and joints, and the salt stones moisturize and plump up the outer skin layer. w

Janet M. Hunter is the owner of Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa, located at 631 Brawley School Road, Suite 200, in Mooresville. You may contact them at 704.800.5535 or give them a virtual visit today at www.handandstonemooresville.com.

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WRITER JANET M. HUNTER

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the wisdom behind wisdom teeth LKN EXPERT

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we perform many different surgical procedures.

One of the most common procedures is removal of wisdom teeth, also called third molars. One of the most common questions that we get is, “Why do we have wisdom teeth if they need to be taken out?”

While there are several theories proposed for the presence of wisdom teeth, no one particular theory has been proven. What we do know, however, is that whether they are impacted or erupted into the mouth, they can and often do present an array of oral health problems.

AS ORAL SURGEONS,

HEALTH

Dr. Michael Foran is an oral/ maxillofacial surgeon and partner at Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery (as well as Lake Norman Implant Dentistry), located at 19910 North Cove Road in Cornelius. You may reach them at 704.892.1198 or visit them at www.CAROLINAOMS.com.

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Impacted wisdom teeth create a pocket that bacteria can live in and cannot be effectively cleaned out.

When these bacteria multiply, their byproducts destroy the surrounding bone and soft tissue and can damage the adjacent molars and supporting tissues. It can also cause cavities in hard-to-reach places that may not be fixable and can end up causing loss of the adjacent teeth. Additionally, impacted teeth can have different cysts and tumors form, which need to be removed. Even when wisdom teeth erupt into the mouth, rarely can they be maintained or kept clean, resulting in similar issues.

The best time to remove wisdom teeth is between the ages of 14 and 20 as a general rule. Everyone in this age group should have a full mouth x-ray, called a panorex, to check the positioning of their wisdom teeth so a more individual plan can be formulated. Waiting until one’s late

20s, 30s, or 40s generally makes the removal much more difficult and increases the risks for complications and longer, slower recovery periods.

When patients have their wisdom teeth removed, they should remember that it is a surgical procedure. It involves having anesthesia, surgical removal of small amounts of surrounding bone and teeth, and a recovery period. Some patients feel great the next day while others may take several days to recover.

During this time, patients should limit their activities at home, especially athletics, and stick to a softer diet. Syringes are given to patients to care for and clean the extraction sites.

Sometimes patients may be slow to heal or have pain that continues beyond a few days.

This is generally referred to as “dry socket.” While dry socket is not dangerous, it can be uncomfortable and refractory to oral pain medications. In these cases, patients should follow up with their surgeon to have medicine placed directly into the extraction sites to ease the discomfort.

Knowing some of the facts surrounding wisdom teeth and their removal can help you plan to take care of them and prevent future, more serious issues down the road. w

WRITER DR. MICHAEL FORAN

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HEALTH

is it food allergy?

then what?

with a stunning 377 percent increase in the treatment of diagnosed anaphylactic reactions to food between 2007 and 2016. In fact, food allergy sends someone to the emergency department every three minutes. It is estimated that 32 million Americans have some type of food allergy.

FO O D A LLE RGY I S IN CR E A SIN G IN T H E U N IT E D STATE S

What is food allergy?

What are the symptoms of food allergy?

Food allergy can occur when your body’s immune system overreacts to harmless food proteins. In the U.S., the most common food allergies are to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish.

Most food allergy is caused by antibodies (IgE) that bind to food proteins. When the food allergen is eaten, IgE can bind to food protein and cause release of histamine and other chemicals.

This can lead to rapid symptom development.

IgE mediated food allergy symptoms can occur quickly and can be very dangerous. After the food allergen is eaten, symptoms can occur in minutes, up to two hours with most reactions occurring within the first hour of consumption. Symptoms may include: skin — itching, redness, hives, red bumps, swelling under the skin, rash

eyes — itching, tears, redness, swelling around the eyes upper respiratory — runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, hoarseness, dry cough, itching lower respiratory — chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, cough

mouth — swelling of tongue, palate, or lips, itching

gastrointestinal — nausea, reflux, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain cardiovascular — rapid or slow heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, low blood pressure, loss of consciousness

How do I get rid of my food allergy?

There is no cure for food allergy.

Some food allergies—such as milk, eggs, wheat, and soy—often resolve during childhood. Food allergy to peanut, tree nuts, and seafood are less likely to be outgrown. While not a cure, oral food desensitization is a new therapy to help build tolerance to food and reduce the risk of severe allergy symptoms on accidental food ingestion. In 2020, the FDA approved an oral immunotherapy (OIT) product for peanut allergy, but it is not appropriate for all peanut-allergic patients.

What should I do next?

At times, some doctors or other healthcare providers may recommend tests that are not scientifically proven to diagnose food allergies. For many food intolerances, the exact mechanism is unclear and thus it makes sense that there are not diagnostic tests available. Your best option is to see a board-certified allergist to help determine if your adverse food reaction is in fact due to food allergy. They can then provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan for you. w LKN EXPERT

What are acceptable tests for food allergy?

Food allergy, by definition, requires an adverse reaction after the food is ingested. It is very important to understand that food allergy tests do not diagnose food allergy but rather show allergic sensitivity (the presence of IgE against the food). While these tests help us to confirm food allergy when they match the clinical history, these tests are not perfect and false positives can occur.

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You can reach Douglas T. Johnston, D.O., FAAAAI, FACAAI, and his team at Carolina Asthma & Allergy Center via their website at www. carolinaasthma.com, or to schedule an appointment at one of their 14 area locations, call them at 704.372.7900.

WRITER DOUGLAS T. JOHNSTON, D.O.

creativity

WITHOUT LIMITS

UPCOMING AUDITIONS Aug. 23-24

Dec. 5-6

Auditions @ Arts Unlimited 228 N Main St.

Auditions @ Arts Unlimited 228 N Main St.

MTI’s All Together Now! - A Global Directed by Event Celebrating Local Theatre is an Wrenn Goodrum. opportunity for schools and theatres Performance dates are February 10-14 around the world to locally produce at Charles Mack (Joe V Knox) auditorium. and perform an exclusive musical “Anne Frank and Me” is a 2001 novel revue featuring songs from beloved by husband-wife writing team Cherie MTI shows!

We will be participating Bennett and Jeff Gottesfeld. Inspired www.mooresvillechildrenstheatre.org in the event with a fundraiser by the life of Anne Frank, it follows the www.mooresvillechildrenstheatre.org to benefit the Clayton Miller story of a teenage girl named Nicole us for Best Scholarship! We’dPlease love to have vote MCT for Burns.

The story wasTheatre! adapted as a play Please vote for us for Best Theatre! and surrounding young artists be a in 1996 in New York City, written and Go to lakenormanpublications.com to vote! part of the project! Details to come! directed by Cherie Bennett.

Go to lakenormanpublications.com to vote!

FOR UP-TO-THE MINUTE INFO, VISIT/FOLLOW:

www.MooresvilleChildrenTheatre.org www.ArtsUnlimitedStudios.com @mooresvillechildrenstheatre

Mooresville Community Childrens Theatre

@youththeatrenc

@COZYBOUTIQUE_

704.662.0023

www.cozyboutique.net MOORESVILLE:

1098 Brawley School Rd., Ste.110

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cost-effective option to boost your home’s value, there’s a new, innovative and eco-friendly trend in home renovations, thanks to Spray-Net. Spray-Net offers homeowners in North Carolina a smarter way to paint homes, and it isn’t with a fancier brush.

Through a patented process, Spray-Net has invented a way to renovate and paint the exterior of your home. Whether your home is clad with stucco, brick, or siding – or you want to update the look of your windows and doors, SprayNet can restore a factory-quality finish to your home’s exterior and make it look brand new.

Spray-Net was born out of the problem with traditional painting that many Lake Norman/ Charlotte homeowners know all too well. “The issue with painting homes in this area using traditional paint is that the paint doesn’t last very long after sitting through the long, hot summers and can quickly fade and expose the underlying surface to harsh elements,” says Spray-Net’s founder Carmelo Marsala. “Once these two things happen, other issues can affect the look of the home and can lead to unexpected renovation costs.”

Through a combination of custom chemistry and a relentless focus, Marsala discovered a way to create more durable and longerlasting paint and process. In fact,

Spray-Net’s paint is so durable the company offers a 15-year warranty on peeling or chipping. This guarantee is transferable, a valueadded feature for anyone looking to sell their home.

The best part is that SprayNet’s cost to paint your home is comparable to that of a professional painting company.

Spray-Net manufacturers all its paint to ensure its high-quality standards are always met.

"Using our proprietary line of industrial-strength coatings and patented application processes, we renew and transform existing surfaces that most people think can’t be painted but, instead, replaced," he said. "We revamp and

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“We are excited about helping homeowners throughout the entire Charlotte area find a highquality and cost-effective solution to transform and update their homes.”

- Spray-Net’s founder Carmelo Marsala transform stucco, brick, aluminum and vinyl siding, front and garage doors, aluminum and vinyl windows, and even kitchen cabinets.

"In just one day, we deliver a permanent, factory finish that won’t peel and that looks just like new, not repainted," Marsala continued.

"We’ve taken the process of factory painting and optimized it for application outside the controlled environment of the factory. By bringing factory results directly on-site, we give property owners a real alternative to replacement. The cost of our solution is immediately outweighed by the increase in curb appeal and overall property value.

Unlike some renovations that don’t pay off, our renovation solution allows property owners to literally see a return on their investment."

Spray-Net’s proprietary paint and service have caught the attention of many high-profile home renovation and interior design professionals.

HGTV stars on “Property Brothers” have collaborated with Spray-Net to revamp homes. Also, HGTV star Sarah Richardson, has worked with Spray-Net to share SprayNet’s transformational benefits with homeowners. In fact, if you

visit Spray-Net’s website, you’ll find some specific advice from Sarah on color trends for 2021 and beyond.

“We are excited about helping homeowners throughout the entire Charlotte area find a high-quality and cost-effective solution to transform and update their homes,” says Marsala. “While we offer a unique solution, customer service is our true passion. The smiles on our customers’ faces after they see their home for the first time is what drives and inspires us.”

A local Lake Norman entrepreneur has partnered with Spray-Net to open the greater Charlotte location.

To book a free consultation with a Spray-Net professional, call (704) 885-2470 or visit their website at www.Spray-Net.com.

BEFORE

To book a free consultation with a Spray-Net professional, call (704) 885-2470 or visit their website at www.Spray-Net.com.

FEATURE

womantowatch

MARILYN

CUNNINGHAM LKNW RECOGNIZES A WOMAN DOING EXCEPTIONAL WORK IN THE

LAKE NORMAN COMMUNITY, A LEADER WHO IS PAVING THE WAY TO

CHANGING OUR ATTITUDES AND INSPIRING CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE.

on CREATING SAFE SPACES FOR KIDS: I started Good Clean Fun because my daughter became deathly ill from a quick-serve restaurant playground. We almost lost her twice when she was hospitalized. After that incident, I spent three years doing research on playgrounds, safety, disinfection, and regulations regarding play areas.

I started a second company, Good Clean Fun Products, in 2005. I wanted to create something I knew was safe after what happened with my daughter. It was such a painful, scary time. on LOVING HER PEEPS: Lake Norman is obviously a beautiful and growing community, but what I really love about the area are the people. I have met some of the most genuine and selfless people I have ever known! on THE LIFE-ALTERING CHALLENGES OF A PANDEMIC: The onset of the COVID-19

pandemic really rocked my world and took all I had to not give up. It was a terribly frightening time. I had to furlough all my employees, sell one of my work vehicles, tools, and equipment just to keep the lights on. After running a successful business for 25 years I basically had to reinvent myself. I guess the word “pivot” could be used to describe my resiliency during this time, but it was a matter of survival.

on SAVORING SWEET MOMENTS WITH HER LOVES: I love to cook and garden, and my

husband, Brian, and I enjoy working out together.

We love nature and taking our dog, Rudy, on hikes at different parks in the LKN area. When I envision my perfect day, that would mean waking up with the man I love, walking the dog, and spending quality time with my family and friends. Life doesn’t get any better than that!

MARILYN CUNNINGHAM

on TURNING INWARD: As for advice for other businesswomen, always trust your gut. Rely on people that you trust and those who have been successful in their own journeys to weigh in on any challenges that you are facing and to give you guidance. Don’t give the naysayers a second thought. If you believe in yourself and your mission, you will be successful. w

GOOD CLEAN FUN

Marilyn Cunningham is the owner of Good Clean Fun and Good Clean Fun Products in Cornelius. You may reach her at marilyn@goodcleanfunproducts.com, via phone at 704.599.9079, or visit her now at www.goodcleanfunproducts.com.

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WRITER LINDSAY MARTELL

PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN

Accepting New Patients!

Family Care Center Iredell Health System and the Iredell Physician Network are pleased to welcome Dr. Judith Albert to Family Care Center of Mooresville, a new practice located inside Iredell Mooresville.

Dr. Albert is a board-certified family physician who believes in an individualized approach to patient care. She treats her patients as she would treat her own family members. She enjoys getting to know patients on a personal level and building lifelong relationships.

704-360-6480 w OM AN.C OM

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ld fie ue Bl

653 Bluefield Rd., Suite F Mooresville, NC FCCofMooresville.com

Rd

“My goal is to help my patients become the best and healthiest versions of themselves. I plan to be their biggest cheerleader on the way.”

Family Care Center

Hwy 150

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HOME

inside

design

Starr Miller

with Starr Miller

selecting

Founder and Principal, StarrMiller Interior Design Allied ASID, IDS, CAPS

a home builder

OK, I T H A S BE E N A

minute since college.

But this year, college has been one of my focus areas. Why? Well, I have had the great pleasure to work with my sorority sister, Bev, and her wife Kim on their new build in Alabama, and now I have been asked by my college roommate, Laura, to help with her build in Indiana. Doing a new build out of town takes a special skill, lots of communication, plenty of zoom calls, and most of all a great collaborative builder.

Laura is now at the point of interviewing builders and asked for my help. Having worked with MANY builders over the years this is the list that I am sending her to use in her interviews: REFERENCES: 1 One former Client 2 One current Client Ask the same questions from their point of view.

Ask if they would work with the builder again!

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VISUAL:

OFFICE VISIT – Is the office

organized? Is the builder explaining thoroughly their process?

Home Builder: Southern Cottage Architect: LaBella Designer: StarrMiller Interior Design Photographer: Laurie Glenn

SITE VISIT – Is the site organized and

humming with activity? Is the project supervisor on site? Do you see safety issues?

Is the site secure? How knowledgeable is the builder about the specific project? What is the quality of the work?

OBSERVATIONS: 1 Is the builder’s communication style easy to follow?

2 Are they open and honest in the process?

3 Did they look over your plans with interest and ask questions?

4 Did they listen to you?

5 What is your gut telling you?

BUILDER QUESTIONS: 1 How many years have you been in business? How many homes have you built?

2 What quality and style home do you typically build?

Does it match your vision?

3 How closely do you work with my architect and interior designer? Collaboration is key. Ask for examples.

4 What does your project team look like? Who is involved? How many other projects do they work concurrently?

5 How does your estimating process work? What do the estimated costs vs actual costs run on your projects? How do you make sure your estimates are correct? How long does your estimating process take?

6 Do you have a core group of trades that only work for you, or do you bid each project out? How many bids do you obtain per trade?

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7 How do you handle issues during the construction process? You will want examples. Do you use a program like Co-Construct that tracts communications and costs?

8 How long should our construction take? How close are your estimates?

9 Are your contracts cost plus or fixed cost? Many builders give you a choice. The main point of this question is to see if you can follow their train of thought easily and transparently.

10 Do you have specific materials that you prefer to use? Examples? Why? 11 What is your building warranty and how is it serviced?

12 What do you not do well?

13 How are you handling product delays in today’s economy? w

Our resident home-design expert, Starr Miller, has garnered local and national acclaim with more than 30 industry honors. An alumnus of the prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York, Starr has built a strong following as the principal of her sought-after design firm, located in Cornelius, NC. She feels the composition of a space must originate with the client’s unique perspective. Along with that perspective she brings together her team’s collaboration, design skills and refined processes in a way which results in truly captivating homes for her clients.

StarrMiller Interior Design specializes in full-service interior design projects.

704.896.3321 www.StarrMiller.com

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FOOD

chicken salad SALAD INGREDIENTS:

DRESSING INGREDIENTS:

2 pkgs. Ramen noodles (chicken flavor 3oz. pkg.)

½ cup vegetable oil

1 small head of cabbage, chopped 4 green onions chopped 1 cup slivered almonds

2 cups cooked, cut-up chicken

2 tbsp rice vinegar 2 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp soy sauce

Flavor packets from soup mix 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds 2 tbsp sesame oil

TO MAKE THE SALAD:

Break noodles into pieces, toss with cabbage, green onions, almonds, and chicken.

TO MAKE THE DRESSING:

Combine oil, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and flavor packets from soup; mix well. Toss dressing and sesame seeds with salad. w

“The most important work you’ll ever do will be within the walls of your own home.” - Harold B. Lee AMANDA GLOWACKI OWNER / NC REALTOR ® 704-962-7889

DISCOVER home.

UNLOCK happy.

amanda@amandakatehome.com

@amandakatehome

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that's what he said

FEATURE

SPOILER ALERT:

Men and women are different. Ok, so maybe that fact didn’t really surprise you. After all, it’s been 27 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 John McKeown of Spray-Net Carolinas.

that's what

Said

JOHN McKEOWN, SPRAY-NET CAROLINAS FROM FLORIDA ORANGE TO CAROLINA BLUE!

I grew up in Tampa, Florida, and attended the University of Miami. I moved to North Carolina shortly after college and met my wife, Christy, a North Carolina native. We have two children: Lila (10) and John Christian (9). I was transferred from the western part of the state to Concord for work in 2010, and we have really enjoyed the Lake Norman area … the people, dining, outdoor activities, and overall vibe are all amazing.

ATTITUDES ABOUT LATITUDES.

With family in Australia, Europe, and South Africa, I have been fortunate enough to see a lot of the world.

My wife and I lived in St Thomas USVI for a year, but I think our favorite locale would have to be the Florida Keys. It is hard to beat the fishing, fresh seafood, and crystal-clear waters of this beautiful string of islands.

THINGS THAT MAKE ME SMILE.

My wife laughing at one of my absurd dadjokes, my daughter beaming with pride after winning a swim race, my son catching a big fish (actually, any of us catching a big fish), the lake, the ocean, boats, sunsets, fresh air, happy clients, college football, and a good meal after a long day.

John McKeown is the managing partner of Spray-Net Carolinas in Concord. Connect with John via phone at 704.899.2777, email John.m@spray-net.com, or visit today at www.spray-net.com.

WHEN OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS.

I always wanted to have some ownership in a business, and it seems every job/ career I have had was successful based on making people happy and providing more bang for their buck. When the opportunity arose to partner with SprayNet, I could not turn it down! The results from our patented coatings and processes are pretty incredible … there really is no other company out there that does what we do. I love the satisfaction that comes from helping people fall in love with their homes all over again.

HOPE, HARD WORK, AND OPTIMISM.

Everyone has bad days. Everyone has down days … but it’s important to do your best every single day. I tell myself and my kids that it’s okay to fail as long as you are doing your best and willing to try again. Life must be infused with unlimited optimism … not the “rahrah everything is perfect” style of optimism—more like the ability to look at things realistically and the opportunity for a positive outcome no matter how dark it may seem at the moment. Hope, hard work, and optimism will take you far in life. w

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WH E N YO U PICTU R E SO ME O N E

how do you imagine them? Your answer can help you determine if you are feeding into the stigma of mental health. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), this stigma often stems from misconceived stereotypes and prejudices—that somehow all people with mental illness are dangerous or unpredictable.

WH O IS ME N TA L LY IL L ,

This type of public stigma can lead to self-stigma, making the individual feel at fault for their illness and can create larger discrimination in society. Nearly 1 in 5 American adults live with a mental illness, and an estimated 19 million Americans experience a major depressive episode each year.

With such prevalence, why the stigma? “A common misconception is that mental health is all or nothing,” says Dr. Latasha Ellis, a psychotherapist at Iredell Psychiatry.

“For example, there are various diagnoses within mental health. I think the stigma leads people to believe that mental health is more of the severely mentally ill, like those who are psychotic or schizophrenic.

In all actuality, a lot of people struggle with things that are less severe, but those things may still fall under the umbrella of mental illness.”

that many individuals have faced. The mental health stigma may prevent individuals with a mental illness from seeking treatment to avoid being incorrectly labeled as “crazy” or “dangerous.” This stigma may create a lack of understanding from family, friends, coworkers, or others.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, men with mental illnesses are less likely to have received mental health treatment than women; and men are more likely to die by suicide than women.

Why is this?

“Women are typically more open and expressive,” Dr. Ellis explains. “Men may not share as willingly because of the way society has groomed males not to talk about or share their feelings. But anyone can experience mental health concerns.” This added societal pressure on men directly influences the mental health stigma.

According to the APA, more than half of people with mental illness do not receive help for their

The most common mental illnesses, according to the APA, are depression and anxiety — something

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-2 1-8 00

mental health awareness: SQUASHING THE STIGMA

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-TA L

K

HEALTH

Suicide P revention & Awareness Month

disorders (and many avoid seeking treatment) due to concerns about being treated differently in society.

Especially after the previous year, consumed with the unprecedented pandemic, many have come to know depression and anxiety all too well.

“The pandemic has brought more awareness to mental health because a larger amount of people are talking about it,” Dr. Ellis says. “The COVID-19 pandemic made mental health a little more acceptable in conversation because it brought forth a lot of anxiety in many of us.”

How can I help stop the stigma?

The past year has demonstrated how talking openly about mental health, even sharing it on social media, can help reduce the stigma of mental illness. “It’s important for everyone to be open about their mental health because it helps kill the stigma,” Dr. Ellis reiterates. “When more people are talking about it, and awareness is growing, those who are struggling secretly or privately are more comfortable coming forward and getting the help they need.” w LKN EXPERT

Latasha Ellis, Ph.D., is a psychotherapist at Iredell Psychiatry, a part of Iredell Health System.

For a comprehensive list of services and programs, visit www.iredellhealth.org.

WRITER SYDNEY TREXLER

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HOME

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!

GIVE GARLIC THE RUB!

Rub your fingers against the stainless-steel faucet of your sink while, or directly after, rinsing with water for about ten seconds; it will neutralize garlic smells completely, and there’s a scientific reason to back it up … Google it!

TIPS,

HERBS, HERBS, HERBS.

When you buy fresh herbs, trim the stems and put in a glass of water (a mason jar works well).

Then place a plastic bag (like the one you got at the grocer) over top and secure by tying with string. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks!

& HACKS K IT C H EN ED IT IO N !

CORKS IN YOUR FRUIT BOWL?

Yes! The cork material absorbs moisture put off by the ripening fruit and activates a fragrance from the cork that fruit flies do not like.

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WE ALL SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM!

Press a piece of wax paper directly onto the ice cream before you put the lid on and put it back in the freezer; the barrier will help prevent freezer burn.

C IS FOR COOKIE, THAT’S GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME…

To keep cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container with a slice of store-bought white bread.

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w w w. g r i f f i n . i n s u re

An agency built on relationships We work to develop lasting client relationships & a small town feel while using national resources, experience, problem-solving skills, and key insurance companies & underwriting relationships.

PRODUCTS

Auto Insurance Home Insurance Commercial Insurance Boat/Watercraft Insurance Classic Car Insurance Condo Insurance Flood Insurance Life Insurance Motorcycle Insurance Renters Insurance RV Insurance Umbrella Insurance

OUR WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP

JACKIE SIPE Senior VP Operations

ERIN REITER Personal Lines Office Manager

LEYDA MARTINEZ Hispanic Market Specialist

JES NABORS Agency Management Administrator

BARBI DELLINGER Personal Lines Office Manager

APRIL HELGESON Personal Lines Office Manager

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MOORESVILLE 107 KILSON DR 704-664-9111

S D R O W 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.

Dogs are the leaders of the planet.

If you see two life forms, one of them’s making a poop, the other one’s carrying it for him, who would you assume is in charge?”

—JERRY SEINFELD

When all the dust is settled and all the crowds are gone, the things that matter are faith, family, and friends.

—BARBARA BUSH

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Families are held together by choice.

Members are alike and unalike, yet there is comfort in the sameness and excitement in the differences.

When we respect and relish both conditions, we can call ourselves

Family.

—MAYA ANGELOU

“Familyis a life jacket in the

stormy sea

of

—J.K. ROWLING

life.”

Animals are reliable, many full of love, true in their affections, predictable in their actions, grateful and loyal.

Difficult standards for people to live up to.

—ALFRED A. MONTAPERT

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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.

a MOONLIT LIFE the tides of the ocean are affected by the Moon, as is the salt water that arises within our own bodies … it is in water that energy and emotions are stored, which is why on the night of a Full Moon, we can feel our emotions more. When the Moon is full, it is signifying a beginning or an end and, with this, we are able to fully express ourselves and know the direction forward as our soul guides us.

AS WE’RE ALL AWARE,

On the night of the New Moon, however, (when the Moon is dark and not yet visible), it is a time to go within. It is a time to plant the seeds that will flourish and bloom when the Moon is full again. It is a time to dive deep inside yourself and work out that which you most want to manifest in your life.

When you sync your energy up to the vibration of the Moon, not only will you feel more in tune with your emotions, but you will also be able to vibrate in harmony with your more intuitive side.

I follow a lunar cycle to keep myself on track with life goals, health, well-being, and gratitude. It’s a way to remind myself of ongoing aspirations and how I will work to manifest the good, the true, and the beautiful in my life—not only for myself but for others. Life

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is a cycle of birth, death, and renewal. The Full Moon reminds me to assess what has manifested in my life and to express my gratitude. And it is a time for healing—to use my energy to heal not only my own loved ones but to reach out and offer healing energy to others.

Take time in the next hours to consider what gifts others have bestowed upon you … the gifts of friendship and love, of positive intentions and prayer on your behalf, the gifts of service when you needed assistance. And meditate on what you can do for others to enrich their world and nurture their spirits. We are all connected on this planet.

Our energy reverberates with one another and all that makes up existence here. Our Creator wants us to live in peace and harmony and spiritual communion with one another! Be thankful for all that has come into your life and take time to lift up your prayers and intentions for this earth and for one another. w

Kathryn Ann Hornberger lives in Western North Carolina with her husband Keith and is a freelance writer and contributor to Lake Norman Woman Magazine. She began her career at age 13, writing a column for her local newspaper and is currently working on a book exploring the spiritual aspects of spousal caregiving.

WRITER KATHRYN ANN HORNBERGER

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DR

SARAH

STUCHELL

R E L A T I O N S H I P

E X P E R T

The quality of relationships is intrinsic to our well-being.

Licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience.

I N D I V I D U A L ,

C O U P L E ,

A N D

F A M I L Y

T H E R A P Y

areas of expertise conflict | communication | infidelity | intimacy & sex | premarital compatibility trauma | narcissistic abuse | divorce | parental alienation | grief & loss addiction & alcohol abuse | depression | anxiety | bipolar disorder | self-esteem blended families | co-parenting | family court issues | supervised visitation

16930 W. Catawba Ave., Ste. 100A, Cornelius, NC 28031 PHONE: (949)280-1441 EMAIL: DrSarah@MFRITherapists.com DrSarah.com

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NC License MFT2047

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