VOL 18 | NO 3 | COMPLIMENTARY
Make A
Splash Go Luxe This Summer
Fly Like An Eagle Meet The Amazing Lt. Col. Kim Coleman
Kidding Around Amanda Wheeling & Sandy Bottoms Kids
JULY 2014
A Heartfelt artfelt Thank nk You You To To Those T Thatt Serve. 15% MILITARY DISCOUNT
SR EPP VIKYPEV TVMGIH QIVGLERHMWI
Please remember to bring your military ID with you.
100% American can Made. W Wee partner with some of the world’ ’s most skilled Amish sh world’s craftsmen who ho custom design and build uild every single piece of furnitur et furnituree to meet \RXU H[DFW VS SHFLÀFDWLRQV 5HSU HVHQWLQ QJ VSHFLÀFDWLRQV 5HSUHVHQWLQJ quality American rican Made manufactur e and ers manufacturers builders, allows ws us to support the American merican economy and workfor ce every day workforce day..
,MGOSV] ,MGO OSV S ] *YVRMXYV *YVRMXYVII 1 1EV 1EVXX ˆ 0I 0IZIP ZIP ˆ ,[] 7)) ˆ ,MGOSV] ,MGOOSV S ] 2'
ˆ [[[ [[[ EQMWLSEOERHGLIVV] GSQ EQMWLSEOERHGLIVV] R GSQ
,ERHGVEJXIH ,ERHGVE JXIH ,IMVPSSQ 5YE 5 5YEPMX] PMX] ˆ %QIVMGER %QIVMGE R 1EHI ˆ 7SPMH ,EVH[SSH , ,EV H[ SSH
Bothered by Receding Gums? NEW Patented “Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation”™ Technique Provides Immediate Results As seen on
If you’ve been suffering from unsightly gum recession, you’re more likely to have tooth sensitivity and pain, root cavities, or even early tooth loss. Now there’s an easy, comfortable way to treat it here in Charlotte! The Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™ (PGR) Technique is a patented, minimallyinvasive alternative to traditional gum grafting, but without all the negative side effects.
None of the hassles of traditional grafting • No donor site • No Incisions • No Sutures Instant benefits of PGR include: • Quick Treatment Time • Fast “Next Day” Recovery • Reduced Sensitivity • Beautiful, Lasting Results You don’t have to hide your smile... Dr. Bowman can help! Take action to stop your gum recession now. To learn about PGR and see Crystal’s reaction go www.CharlotteSmileDesign.com. Call Advanced Dentistry of Charlotte at 704-837-8261 for a FREE Consultation, and to see if you’re a candidate for PGR™!
Cosmetic & Family Dentistry • Dental Implants Invisalign & Six Month Smiles Cosmetic Orthodontics Sleep Apnea Treatment • Oral Sedation Dentistry
704-837-8261 www.CharlotteSmileDesign.com 1618 E Morehead St. | Charlotte, NC 28207
Crystal Durham, who drove over 4 hours to have PGR done is thrilled with the results.
Dr. Chris Bowman is among the first 16 general dentists in the world licensed and trained to provide Pinhole Gum Rejuvenation™. He is the first dentist in the Southeastern US to perform the procedure. Dr. Bowman is a leading Charlotte cosmetic dentist, a Six Month Smiles Clinical Instructor, and an international dental author and speaker. He has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX.
Capturing memories, one click at a time.
Office: 704.360.0081/Mobile: 704.224.3880
Your smile is your best accessory Smile in One VisitTM is a new way to get the smile you want faster than ever before. Come into the office in the morning and leave with a new smile that afternoon!
Dr. Don Timpton
Carmel Commons Dental South Charlotte
Call to Schedule a Complimentary Consultation and to Request Your FREE Guide on the “Smile in One VisitTM” Offer Good for the First 50 Callers
704-621-4631 Dr. Timpton’s Method Smile in One VisitTM means: • Computer aided smile design gives you exactly the smile you want and lets you see your smile ahead of time. • Visits are minimized no matter which option you choose. • Faster and more predictable than traditional methods. • “Temporaries” are solid, life-like, and guarantee that you like your new smile before it’s made permanent. • For those who are fearful, sedation is available.
www.carmelcommonsdental.com
Inside This Issue
46
8
Editor’s Note Freedom, I Say!
42 16
10 Girl Power Eat, Shop, Drink & Be Powerful
16 The Queen’s List Goings On Around Town
18 Kidding Around Amanda Wheeling And Family Create Kids’ Clothing
22 Fly Like An Eagle Lt. Col. Kim Coleman Serves Country And Family
26 Style
38
Make A Splash
38 Truckin’ 32 Seen In The City Out & About Around Town
33 The Business Of Excellence 2014 NAWBO-Charlotte Award Winners
Food Trucks Are The City’s Hottest Culinary Trend
42 Dwellings Treat Your Walls
46 Health Flash An Apple A Day & Other Wisdom www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 6
50 I Really Think Viva La Restoration!
OnTheCover Well suited. PHOTO BY GLENN ROBERSON.
designer swimwear
4300 Sharon Road | Charlotte, NC | 704-366-5505 | TARAGRINNA-SWIMWEAR.COM
PHOTO BY MICHAEL C. HERNANDEZ
From The Editor » By Karsen Price www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 8
Freedom, I Say! ndependence. It comes in many forms, shapes and sizes. One person’s independence doesn’t look anything at all like another’s. I feel especially independent this July. In part because I recently moved out of a house that seemed impossible to sell for over a year — which is puzzling, because it is the prettiest house I’ve ever seen. Perhaps it’s a stretch to connect the act of moving to the idea of independence. But here’s a secret: This is the first time I’ve been on my own since college. Which doesn’t really count, because although I worked, Mom and Dad were still behind me, paying the bills. It wasn’t easy selling my house. It was even harder moving out of it. It took longer than I expected, and it left me more exhausted than childbirth. I found myself asking the same question, over and over: How did I manage to accumulate so much stuff? I found myself unboxing items that had lived in my attic since I moved there in 2005 … items I obviously did not need or want. Goodwill benefited from my recent independence. Even though the items held value, I didn’t have time to sell most of them. I had to get rid of them — fast — because the sale of my house snuck up on me after an anemic “nothing’s ever going to happen” stretch of time on the housing market. In the end, 90 percent of the workload of moving fell on me, and my family. I honestly had moments when I thought I would never get everything out of the house in time for closing. Overnight, my items seemed to breed, like rabbits on steroids.
But it happened. I did it. I am writing this from my little rented condo, while a thunderstorm booms along the edges of the neighborhood. I can barely walk through my home office, it is so stuffed with boxes and artwork. I don’t have the energy to sort through it all. I am averaging hanging one picture a day, and after the last month, that pace feels just right to me. Yes, I left the house of my dreams … but, like so many things, the idealism behind that dream fell short long ago. I admit that during my last moments on the porch of my house, I cried. But quickly, I felt ridiculous. What is a house when compared to family? To health? To cancer-free outcomes? To happy children? To the loyal love of a good pet? Nothing. Nothing at all. I let the house go — and in its place crept a solemn, but fierce, freedom. Freedom comes in many forms. But it comes with one truth: Freedom doesn’t come easy. It might involve years of fighting Redcoats. It might involve surviving a brutal round of chemo known as Red Devil. Perhaps it entails open-heart surgery. Maybe it comes after a mad dash of 18-hour days spent lugging boxes and furniture you have no business carrying alone. Whatever your path to freedom, here’s the one catch: It isn’t going to be easy. The road will be hard. From there, get busy busting your chops. Tackle the fear. Dole out the work. Dive in. And wait for the reward. When you accomplish what you think you cannot, there is freedom at the end of that road. And that freedom is good.
Volume 18, Number 3 July 2014 Karsen Price Editor Editor@todayscharlottewomanmag.com
Sharon Simpson Publisher sharon@todayscharlottewomanmag.com
Trisha Robinson Sales Executive Trisha@todayscharlottewomanmag.com
Beth Packard Sales Executive Beth@todayscharlottewomanmag.com
Taylor Buckley Sales Executive Taylor@todayscharlottewomanmag.com
Kerrie Boys Creative Director idesign2, inc
Social Media Director Michele Chastain mac21268@yahoo.com Style Editor Stacee Michelle Contributing Writers Jackie Andolino Fogartie Dana Durham Beth Howard Melinda Johnston Lauren Levine Tamara Titus Contributing Photographers Ken Noblezada Andrea Perullo de Ledesma Glenn Roberson www.todayscharlottewomanmag.com www.facebook.com/TodaysCharlotteWoman Mission statement:Today’s Charlotte Woman celebrates the lives, loves and endeavors of the women of Charlotte. Our mission is to inspire and motivate our community through well-written editorial content, artful photography and elegant design. The magazine will enlighten, engage and entertain its readers, ever seeking to spotlight the unbreakable strength that is the heart of Today’s Charlotte woman. P.O. Box 1676 • Cornelius, NC 28031 704.677.9159 Today’s Charlotte Woman is published by Venture Magazines Inc., and is distributed on a complimentary basis throughout the greater Charlotte area. Subscription rate is $20 per year for 12 issues. Copyright© 2014 Venture Magazines Inc. All rights reserved. Copying or reproduction, in part or in whole, is strictly prohibited. Today’s Charlotte Woman and Venture Magazines Inc. do not necessarily endorse the views and perceptions of contributors or advertisers.
Girl Power » In The Moment » Compiled By Karsen Price
GIRLPOWER Eat, Shop, Drink & Be Powerful
PHOTO COURTESY OF AKA
Sisters Who Serve Alpha Kappa Alpha Brings Boule To Town
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 10
ervice to others. To Anna Kate Davis and her thousands of sisters in the service-oriented Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, it is a way of life. Davis — a member of AKA since 1970 — is a true native of Charlotte. She was born here, raised here and thrives here. She enjoyed a storied 35-year career with AT&T and its progenies (BellSouth Telecommunications and Southern Bell Telephone Company). There, she was a certified project manager professional and a senior project manager who had a knack for implementing big ideas. She managed programs that affected not just North Carolina, but South Carolina, Georgia and Illinois. One of her most notable complex assignments included overseeing the first area code split in the state of North Carolina. Now retired, Davis relishes giving back to the community. That’s where AKA comes in. The sorority is America’s first Greek-letter organization founded by AfricanAmerican college-educated women,
and one of the world’s leading service organizations. Headquartered in Chicago, the group boasts over 265,000 women in 985 chapters around the world. The primary goal of AKA is “service to all mankind,” and the group’s reach is large, to be certain. Consider its partnership with Heifer International, to raise funds to purchase cows for families in underdeveloped countries. AKA puts special emphasis on initiatives to help feed the hungry through programs such as Sunday Supper and Stop the Hunger Now Service Project, a part of the Day of Service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King. AKA has established Emerging Young Leaders programs in area schools to encourage social, educational and cultural development, plus leadership skills for young ladies. The group also provides scholarships to students and promotes youth summits, and has partnered with numerous national organizations, including the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Association, the Peace Corp, and the
Arbor Day Foundation, just to name a few. Davis says, “These are only a few of the many efforts we do during the year.” This month, AKA is bringing its biennial conference — known affectionately as “Boule”— to the Charlotte area. Held July 12-18 at the Charlotte Convention Center, the conference will bring people from all over the world to the Queen City, including AKA members from Germany, Japan, South Korea and South Africa. The theme is “A Royal Celebration of Global Leadership and Timeless Service.” Davis is proud to serve as the chairman of the 66th Boule Hostesses Chapter. As chairman, she will work closely with international president Carolyn House Stewart to plan and implement various facets of the Boule, and to welcome thousands of members to the Queen City — all of whom will be dressed in the sorority’s signature pink and green colors. Davis explains, “It’s a celebration of the splendid success of the current administration, a thank you to our
international president, and it builds anticipation for the future.” The Boule isn’t just for AKA members. The sorority is hosting a Town Hall meeting on Sun., July 13 that is open to the public, and will feature a panel of leaders who will engage the audience on issues of civil rights and voter rights. Here, Davis discusses the upcoming Boule.
international president and corporate office. I chair the 60-some Hostess Chapter Committees for the various functions that will go on during the Boule. Q: Can you tell me how each Boule is fun or moving? A: Can you just imagine over 11,000 sisters getting together for a slumber party? See sisters from everywhere, some you already know, some you meet for the first time, but all are related! Talking, shopping, eating, meeting, dancing and talking, and much more. Everywhere you look, there will be pink and green!
Q: How long have you been a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha? A: I was initiated in the spring of 1970 at Shaw University in Raleigh. Q: What inspired you to join AKA? A: Growing up, my parents had a lot of friends that were AKAs. They were always involved in activities to improve the community, and they always had high expectations of my friends and me. We saw them in various leadership roles, and wanted to be like them and never disappoint them.
“Can you just imagine over 11,000 sisters getting together for a slumber party? See sisters from everywhere … some you already know, some you meet for the first time, but all are related!” — Anna Kate Davis
Q: How many Boules have you attended? A: My first Boule was in Los Angeles in 1988, and I believe I have only missed three since then … so, 11 out of 14.
Q: As Boule chairman, what are some of your duties? A: I am the local contact for the
Q: What does serving others add to your life? A: There is a great satisfaction in knowing that you have done just a little something to enhance the life of your fellow mankind. That footprint of giving grows much larger when we unite and work together for a particular common cause.
TOLEARNMORE Visit Aka1908.com.
Caring Dentistry... With a Gentle Touch! “As a patient, many times we do not look forward to a medical appointment. But at Cotswold Family Dentistry, the doctors and staff make it fun to return. I have always had a great experience there. I will continue to recommend them to others. The front office, the assistants, hygienists and the doctors all are great people to deal with. They are very honest and friendly. -Moises
Cotswold Family Dentistry COSMETIC, RESTORATIVE & IMPLANT DENTISTRY
D RS . P ELEAUX , B AILEY & PATEL
New Patients Welcome Cotswold Plaza • 135 S. Sharon Amity Rd. | Suite 204 • Charlotte, NC 28211
704-365-2765
www.CotswoldFamilyDentistry.com
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Photo by Brian Osbourne with The Professional Photography Group
Delivering the Highest Standards of Dental Care
11
Girl Power » Good Eats
The Big
Diaw 5 ounces thinly sliced London broil 1.5 ounces Boars Head Gold Label Swiss cheese 1 ounce Cajun aioli 3 ounces beef au jus 1/4 inch ciabatta roll Assemble, grill on a hot Panini press until the London broil is sizzling and the cheese melts. Serve with a heaping cup of au jus for dunking. Enjoy!
FINDITWHERE? Mortimer’s Café & Pub is located at 210 E.Trade St., Suite C 148. Visit Mortimerspub.com.
A NATURAL LOOK HAIR REPLACEMENT NON-SURGICAL Alopecia Solutions Cranial Prosthesis Full Lace Units Cancer Patients Skin Matrix Scalp Enhancers
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 12
ALSO OFFERING: Permanent Lashes Natural Hair Care and Chemical Services All Services are Private & Confidential A Natural Look Hair Replacement offers the most natural and advanced technology to date. Each hair is placed strand by strand to give the illusion as if it is growing straight from the scalp. Call 704-377-0383 today for a FREE consultation.
1720 E 7th Street Charlotte, NC 28204
LET THE SUMMER FUN BEGIN WORRY FREE Food Allergies Asthma Hayfever Nasal Allergies Eye Allergies Stinging Insect Allergy Allergic Skin Disorders HOURS: M/W 10-7 • Tues 7-7 • Th 8-5 • Fri 7-2 Now Open Every 1st & 3rd Saturday, 8am-12pm
Welcoming New Patients 704-910-1402 BOARD CERTIFIED IN ALLERGY/IMMUNOLOGY Integrative Maeve O’Connor MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI Innovative Jennifer Caicedo MD
Leandra Tonweber PA-C Joe Giordano PA-C
Individualized
Allergy Asthma & Immunology Relief 8810 Blakeney Professional Dr. – Charlotte 28277 (Across from the Blakeney Shopping Center)
704.377.0383 • anaturallook.info
AAIRofcharlotte.com
Girl Power » Happy Hour
a i r g n a S 1 ½ ounces plum wine 1 ounce TY KU Soju 1 ounce TY KU Soju Citrus Liqueur 1 tablespoon of diced cucumber 5 raspberries In a cocktail shaker, add plum wine,TY KU Soju and TY KU Soju citrus liqueur, diced cucumbers and raspberries with 1 cup of ice. Shake to mix. Pour into a wine or highball glass.
FINDITWHERE? BAKU is a Robata-style restaurant that offers Japanese Robata food and sushi and is located at 4515 Sharon Road. Visit Baku-restaurant.com.
Function! Lily Pad Silicone Lid by Charles Viancin • Unique Design • Air Tight Seal Prevents Spills • Safe at High Temperatures and Microwaveable • Reusable www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Blakeney Shopping Center | 9844-B Rea Road | Charlotte | NC 28277 704.542.5558 | www.lecookeryusa.com
13
Girl Power » Shop Talk » By Karsen Price » Photos By Andrea Perullo de Ledesma www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 14
Take The
Cake
Nothing Bundt Cakes Wows Waxhaw
verybody loves cake, and Tia Davis is no exception. For the owner of Nothing Bundt Cakes in Waxhaw, baking isn’t just a hobby and a business; it’s a family affair. “I have been baking with my grandmothers since I was old enough to stand on the stool and help them,” Davis says, adding, “I am from an Italian family so baking was an every weekend event.” Nothing Bundt Cakes sells nostalgia. The bakery specializes in the cakes of our grandmothers — the Bundt, which is thought to have originated in Germany, Austria and Hungary, and became an American staple in the 1950s. Nothing Bundt Cakes takes this family favorite and adds a modern twist. Each cake features a light, moist taste and fresh look, along with custom concept cake decorations that are contemporary and fun. The bakery offers a wide range of cake flavors and sizes, from “Bundtinis” — single serving cakes — to larger Bundts that serve up to 18 people to tiered cakes that serve up to 26 people. “I appreciate the moistness of homemade cakes,” Davis says. “It’s hard to find store-bought cakes that are moist and delicious. That was the main concept that I fell in love with Nothing Bundt Cakes. We bake from scratch daily on premise and our cakes are super moist in all of our 10 flavors.” Davis prides herself on making cakes daily and using the freshest ingredients. Walking in the store is an experience for all of your senses. Customers are greeted by the delicious smell of cakes, and the bakery features a warm color palette
complete with whimsical furniture and handpainted signage reminiscent of yesteryear. And then there’s the cakes themselves! “I enjoy watching our guests’ first impressions when tasting our cakes,” Davis says. “Their eyes roll, and they say the funniest things in amazement about how moist and delicious our cakes are!” The bakery is a franchise that was cofounded in 1997 by Dena Tripp in Las Vegas. “We’ve learned that Bundt cakes hold a special place in the heart of consumers across the nation, as many folks can remember a loved one baking a special Bundt cake just for them,” says Tripp. “We look forward to a successful partnership and becoming part of this city.” Phone and online orders are available, but of course, Davis welcomes customers to visit the store and take a step back into the past. “Nothing Bundt Cakes is a bundtique shop!” she jokes. “We have great gift ideas in our retail/bakery that helps with the giving of delicious Bundt cakes for all occasions.” [TCW]
TOLEARNMORE
Welcome!
Nothing Bundt Cakes is located at 9704 Rea Road, Suite A. Visit Nothingbundtcakes.com.
QUIANA REID, DDS, MS
8420 University Executive Park Suite 805
www.daslingdentistry.com
Accepting new patients
704-594-9250
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Dr. Reid is a native of Charlotte, NC. She received her Undergraduate degree from WinstonSalem State University. She then continued her education at Hampton where she received her Master in Science and then entered into Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry. After dental school Dr. Reid continued her training at Philadelphia Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Dr. Reid has been practicing in the Charlotte area since 2011. She currently sits on the board for the Charlotte Medical Society and is a member of both the Old North State Dental Society and National Dental Association. Dr. Reid is married and she enjoys exercising, trying new vegan restaurants and traveling.
15
Queen’s List
QUEEN’SLIST Goings On Around Our Town
Quite A Stitch American Quilter’s Society Comes To Town
Patriotic Flair Celebrate SkyShow Charlotte
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 16
elebrate your independence this Fourth of July by attending SkyShow Charlotte’s Independence Day celebration with baseball and fireworks at BB&T Ballpark. SkyShow is touted as the area’s greatest Independence Day fireworks display, and it happily returns to uptown Charlotte this year. The best viewing area for those unable to get a ticket to the game will be at Romare Bearden Park, or from parking areas on Graham Street between MLK and 4th Street. Guests are encouraged to arrive between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. in order to get a spot. Enjoy the festival from 3 to 7 p.m., followed by a 7 p.m. baseball game. Fireworks will commence immediately after the game.
WANTTOGO? BB&T Ballpark is located at 324 S. Mint Street. For information, visit Skyshowcharlotte.com.
he largest quilting membership organization in the world — the American Quilter’s Society — is bringing its popular AQS QuiltWeek® event series to Charlotte July 30 through August 2 at the Charlotte Convention Center. AQS is the largest quilting membership organization in the world. AQS marketing director Katherine Rupp says, “There is a very strong network of talent and a genuine understanding of the arts here in Charlotte. We are thrilled to be hosting QuiltWeek in such a dynamic city.” The event celebrates the society’s 30th anniversary, and will bring more than 15,000 people to the Queen City to enjoy four days of the best in international and textile artistry. Over 400 quilts will be on display, and more than $50,000 in prizes will be awarded for quilting excellence. In addition, AQS QuiltWeek® will be hosting a series of workshops with some of the top talent in the quilt industry, plus an extensive merchant mart of both local and national vendors.
Exhibits include SAQA Masters II, featuring 35 quilts from some of today’s top quilting artists, and the Quilted in Honor traveling exhibit by Island Batik, which supports Operation Homefront. The Stitch like an Egyptian exhibit will showcase stunning creations of appliqué. Evening events feature world-renowned celebrities presenting their unique spin on fabric, quilting and life, including dynamic sessions with Cynthia England and Dianne S. Hire. Last, AQS certified quilt appraisers will be available at the event to appraise new or antique quilts from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.Thursday and Friday. (An appraisal fee of $50 per quilt will be payable at quilt check-in.) Admission includes access to all special exhibits and more than 200 vendor booths.
Bead Me Up Intergalactic Bead Show Returns
WANTTOGO? Hours are July 30 through Aug. 1, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and August 2, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit aqsshows.com/charlotte or call 270/898-7903 for ticket information. Note:AQS has arranged for discounted hotel rates, which can be booked through the aqsshows.com/ charlotte website. For information on the American Quilter’s Society, visit www.americanquilter.com.
on’t miss the Intergalactic Bead Show July 19 and 20th at the Metrolina Tradeshow Expo, in Building B. The show is recognized across the East Coast as the region’s bead trade show pioneer. The bead show brings the country’s most unique bead proprietors to major cities and their growing population of collectors, bead crafters and jewelry designers. The show offers consumers a convenient, one-stop exhibition of fine quality beads, hand-selected from around the world. [TCW]
WANTTOGO? Metrolina Tradeshow Expo is located at 7100 Statesville Road. Call 888/729-6904 or 678/924-0818.
Anniversary arry 30 0tthh Anniversa Celebration! Celebratio on!
Celebrate! Cele ebrate!! ebrate Delight in quilting through t the artistr artistry ry of internationally celebrated c quiltmakers.
Quilts byy Judi Madsen from Quilting g Wide Open p Spaces p
Charlotte Ch harlotte Conventi Convention on Center CHARLOTTE, NC
2014
Wednesday–Saturday, W e ednesday–Satur dayy, July 30 – August 2, 2 2014
Order Or der Tickets T ickets kets T Today oday at AmericanQuilter AmericanQuilter.com/tickets Quilter.com/tickets or Call 270-898-7903.
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Join us at AQS Q QuiltWeek uiltWeek – Charlotte for 4 days of quilting inspiration, artistr artistry, y, shopping, and fun fun! n!
17
Mover & Shaker Âť By Lauren Levine Âť Photos By Andrea Perullo de Ledesma
Mother-Daughter Team Creates Colorful, Durable Clothing For Kids
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
18
Kidding Around
andy Bottoms Kids is proof that, sometimes, big ideas start in small places. Sandy Bottoms Kids is a family owned business that sells preppy, chevronrich clothing and accessories to families around the country through online sales, Zulily and Facebook. The brainchild of Sharon Zygmont and her two daughters, Amanda Wheeling and Kimberly Pritchard, the company offers outfits that are equal parts age-appropriate, durable and stylish — and moms around the area are loving it. Sandy Bottoms Kids got its start in church bazaars in the Charlotte area … and has catapulted into an online entity known for its fashionable pieces, which are comfy, customizable and made for getting messy. Everything from the shorts to the T-shirts and bows is 100-percent washable. As Wheeling says, “You just can’t ruin them.”
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
“We continue to learn and grow and roll with the punches, but we always know that at the end of the day, we’re family.” — Amanda Wheeling
19
Mover & Shaker » By Lauren Levine » Photos By Andrea Perullo de Ledesma www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 20
Between The Lines Sandy Bottoms Kids doesn’t have a traditional storefront. Formerly known as Waistin’Away, (with the website and Facebook page still bearing this name) the company is an online entity only. In fact, the brand is known for its Facebook flash sales, which feature hot items at reduced prices. Parents comment on the photo of the piece they’d like to buy, making purchasing almost effortless. Sandy Bottoms also does major business through national retailer Zulily.com. Wheeling explains that the brand’s audience is made up of kids who love chevron, monogrammed pieces, and other similar looks, but haven’t quite graduated to stores like Abercrombie and Fitch. Wheeling says, “We’re in a fun, preppy area. Kids can go from the nautical look you see in Banana Republic to the chevron look that you would see in a small boutique. You’ll also see bright,‘sunshiny’ colors.” Sandy Bottoms Kids is a family business; likewise, good family values are woven into everything the company does. The idea for the brand was Zygmont’s, who spent time working as an interior designer and at Bloomingdale’s in New York City. She began crafting unique belts when daughters Kimberly and Amanda were still students looking for accessories to spice up plain T-shirts. In 2005, the three women decided to market these belts at a small church craft fair in Charlotte. Over time, they continued to sell their merchandise at other events in the community. When it became clear that people loved the items just as much as Amanda and Kimberly, they thought more seriously about turning the pet project into a fullfledged business. The enterprise allowed the women to work together, while exploring their shared love of fashion. The collection continued to garner new fans, prompting them to launch a line of kids’ clothing, which is the Sandy Bottoms brand that has become so popular with Charlotte parents today. Although Wheeling and her family have enjoyed substantial success commercially, family values remain at the core of the company. Wheeling explains, “We still have our Friday night pizza dinners and our Sunday night pasta dinners. We make a big effort. We continue to learn and grow and roll with the punches, but we always know that at the end of the day, we’re family. We don’t scream at each other and we don’t fight.”
Plugged In The products’ unique and stylish designs earn fans organically, but snagging a spot on Zulily helped catapult Sandy Bottoms to success on a national level. Essentially, the site allows Wheeling and her family to make their products available to a much larger audience, as there are currently 7 million registered
Zulily users. Shopping enthusiasts hop on the site, browse collections from Sandy Bottoms (and other brands) and order exactly what they want. They make a purchase and can have the piece shipped to them within three days. Although Sandy Bottoms has developed a national appeal far beyond what Wheeling, Zygmont and Pritchard could have dreamed possible when they began the business a few years ago, the heart of the company remains here in Charlotte. “This city is our focus. We started in a church right in the University area and we don’t forget our roots,” Wheeling says. In fact, every aspect of the design and creation processes happens in the Queen City. Wheeling says, “We start with a design board and we have crazy pieces of paper that actually are organized, but only to us. From there, we start contacting our fabrics companies and we see what’s in stock. Then the fabric comes to us and it goes right to our workroom and we start production.” A staff of 30 works to get all of the items sewn quickly, allowing them to be shipped to customers. It’s a drastic
in st yle
improvement from when Sandy Bottoms Kids first began … and Wheeling and her mom and sister were doing it on their own, often staying up until 3 a.m. just to get it all done and keep the business going. Despite continued growth,Wheeling and her family remain as appreciative of client loyalty as they were in the formative stages of the brand. She says, “You’re not going to get a random customer-service person when you call with a question. I had a lady who had a question and she literally called my cell phone. You can email and you’ll get a response within 24 hours.” With looks that are stylish, customizable and made to be played in, Sandy Bottoms Kids serves as a breath of fresh, local and family-focused air among the Targets, Justices, and Gap Kids of the world. [TCW]
TOLEARNMORE Visit Waistinaway.com. Lauren Levine has written for The Huffington Post and USA Today. She’s happiest with her toes in the sand and a drink in her hand ... but who isn’t?
O R GA N IZE D. . .
Custom Designed Solutions for Your Home & Your Lifestyle
Closets | Pantries | Garages Home Offices | Murphy Beds Media Centers | Laundry Rooms
ClosetAndStorageConcepts.com 704.525.6516 1.888.THE.CLOSET
ASK AB OUT
20%
OFF
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Come Visit Our Beautiful Showroom 635 Pressley Road Suite N, Charlotte, NC
21
Mover & Shaker » By Melinda Johnston » Photos By Andrea Perullo de Ledesma www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 22
FLY LIKE AN EAGLE Lieutenant Colonel Kim Coleman Serves Both Country & Family
here’s lots of talk about patriotism, particularly at this time of year. Kimberly Coleman doesn’t just talk the talk; she walks the walk — all day, every day. Coleman is a soccer mom, PTA volunteer, and can tuck in a perfect bun on a wiggly child with the best of any dance moms. She’s also a lieutenant colonel in the U.S.Air Force Reserves, having proudly served her country for close to 30 years.
“I’ve never seen my service as a sacrifice — it’s always been a privilege to me. It’s not just about a paycheck, it’s about patriotism.” — Kim Coleman
The Real Deal
Desert Shield. “When I was deployed, my mom had to run interference with the admissions office, because nobody knew what to do with me. It had been 30 years since our country was at war,” Coleman says. At age 25, just as she was about to accept her first real teaching job, she was offered a slot in flight school. Although she loved education, the pull of the skies was stronger. She began navigator training. “Being an LC-130 navigator was a huge responsibility. We traveled all over the world, including the Artic and Antarctic, where we helped resupply the National Science Foundation in those areas,” she explains. “We coordinated an internal radar approach, and guided the pilot to land on snow and ice. Pilots can’t land by sight because everything is white. Every time you did a landing, you always had that nervous, scared, excited thrill when the plane touched down.” While working as a navigator, she met her husband, fellow crewmember and pilot Chris Coleman. The two traveled to some of the most remote locations on the globe. Fittingly, he popped the question at the South Pole. “At the ceremonial South Pole, there is a barber pole with flags from all around. We walked over to it, and he pulled out a ring and proposed to me. Even though it was 39 degrees below zero, I took my glove off to put the ring on. The only problem was when I started crying — my eyelashes froze!” Once they were married and had their first child (son Casey,
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Before settling down in Waxhaw, Coleman worked as an aeromedical evacuation technician (think EMT in the sky), and an LC-130 navigator (a plane that lands on skis!). For the past 12 years, she’s served as an admissions liaison officer (ALO), mentoring and evaluating candidates for the United States Air Force Academy and ROTC scholarships covering 100 high schools in four counties. For the last four years, she’s also served as the liaison officer director for North Carolina, supervising 25 ALOs and 1,200 high schools throughout the state. So how does a girl growing up in Schenectady, N.Y., with three sisters end up in the far reaches of the world on a flight crew? Coleman credits the fact that she was goal oriented from birth, and that she looked to her father as her role model early on. “My father, Chief Master Sergeant Douglas Dingman, was a loadmaster of C-130s. He was in charge of all the cargo in the back of that plane. I watched him fly off my whole life and I wanted to be just like him. But if you ask him, he wanted me to do more. He wanted me to fly those planes!” Coleman says. She joined the Air National Guard when she was 17 and worked as an aeromedical evacuation technician for eight years while earning her bachelor’s degree from State University of New York at Albany, and master’s degree in special education at Russell Sage College. She used every penny of her GI Bill, and worked three part-time jobs to pay for school. During that time, she was also deployed for Desert Storm and
23
Mover & Shaker » By Melinda Johnston » Photos By Andrea Perullo de Ledesma www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 24
now 14), Chris retired from the Air Force to fly with Delta Airlines. But Kim wasn’t ready to hang up her wings just yet. “It wasn’t until I was six months pregnant with my second child (daughter Candace, now 11), and I was waddling off the flight line in my husband’s flight suit, that I decided I needed to spend more time with my family. I knew I would miss flying, but I wasn’t ready to retire. Fortunately, I was able to find the one job in the Air Force that allowed me to balance my family and my Air Force career,” she says. In her current job, she takes her experience and inspires and encourages
other future Air Force officers. These days, Coleman lives in Waxhaw and attempts to balance her ALO duties with running a household — which includes her husband, three kids (including son Cody, 9) and Nacho, the family guinea pig. “I’m the master scheduler of my house, but sometimes, in Air Force terms, I crash and burn! Since Chris is an airline pilot, he’s often gone for four days at a time, so I can’t count on him for scheduling needs. I’m also a volunteer with my kids’ sports and schools and, let me tell you, many times dealing with the military is much easier than dealing with
FAMILY PHOTOS COURTESY OF KIM COLEMAN
the PTA!” she says, laughing. For fun, Coleman makes custom cakes and often has to turn down orders because of Air Force or other responsibilities. For all her accomplishments, she’s refreshingly humble, and views her job as an honor, not a burden. “I think every working mom is incredible. I just have a unique job that makes me slightly different,” she says. “I live my life by the Air Force Core Values: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do.” Coleman adds, “I’ve never seen my service as a sacrifice — it’s always been a privilege to me. It’s not just about a paycheck, it’s about patriotism. You study for years and master a skill, and then you can’t wait to use it. Whether it’s nailing an internal approach on the snow, my first airdrop of fuel to a downed aircraft, tending a wounded Blackhawk Crew Chief in Desert Storm, or helping a candidate fulfill his dreams of the Academy, it’s been amazing.” [TCW]
Melinda Johnston couldn’t land a plane in the middle of a corn field; she thinks Kim Coleman is amazing!
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 25
Style » Styled By Stacee Michelle » Photos By Glenn Roberson www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 26
Photographed By Glenn Roberson Directed & Styled By Stacee Michelle Makeup By Jami Svay Hair By Shassity Stevenson On Location At Aloft Charlotte Uptown
t r o Res
LUXE hether you are planning a private getaway to a luxury resort or enjoying poolside fun with the family, the perfect swimsuit should be at the top of your must-have list! From waist-defining one-pieces to flirty fringed bikinis, there are plenty of exciting options to make you look incredibly chic this summer. Liven up your look by embracing vibrant colors, abstract prints and new flattering silhouettes. Indulging in beach cover-ups, accessories and footwear will allow you to cruise through the summer months in style. Make a splash this season feeling confident. There is a swimsuit for every body type — including yours!
Trina Turk swirl one-piece halter, $138, Belk; white-rimmed sunglasses, $39.95, Nordstrom; red wood bangle, $18, Shu Boutique; black and silver ring, $18, Shu Boutique; black floppy hat, $198, Nordstrom; metal ankle-strap, color-block heels, $275, Shu Boutique.
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 27
Style Âť Styled By Stacee Michelle Âť Photos By Glenn Roberson www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 28
Wrap bikini halter top, $92, Everything But Water; wrap bikini bottom, $63, Everything But Water; tassel-chain pendant necklace, $88, Nordstrom; Kate Spade white bracelet, $48, Nordstrom.
Trina Turk feather-wing flutter top, $90, Everything But Water; Trina Turk feather-wing bottoms, $68, Everything But Water; blue laser-cut purse, $68, Shu Boutique; stacked bangles, $48, Nordstrom; Kate Spade pink slim bracelet, $48, Nordstrom; gold chain ring, $18, Kla Boutique.
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 29
Style » Styled By Stacee Michelle » Photos By Glenn Roberson
Teal chain one-piece halter, $123, Everything But Water; yellow crochet vest, $24, Pink Culture Truck; tan ankle-strap wedges, $121.95, Shu Boutique; teal stone ring, $28, Shu Boutique. [TCW]
Luxurious Designer Swimwear from Tara Grinna
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 30
Love Your Closet, Love Your Life!
Advertising feature that keeps the women of Charlotte in-the-know about what the Queen City has to offer
w h a t ’s h o t t o d a y !
The Reunion Bowl
This hand-carved, solid wood, four compartment bowl in artifact style will add texture and style to any tabletop. Add your favorite herbs or citrus for a splash of color and fragrance. 34W x 8D x 3.5H Boulevard Bazaar 704-527-4223 3021 Griffith Street Charlotte, NC 28203 www.boulevardbazaar.com Open Weekends Only Fri & Sat: 9am-5pm Sun: 1pm-5pm
Desperately need to put some style and organization back into your wardrobe? Then look no further because spring cleaning gets a makeover with our Signature Closet Detox service. FashionFrontRunner™ transforms your closet into a space that works for your lifestyle, so you can look and feel your best at a moment’s notice. To learn more or schedule your free consultation, contact FashionFrontRunner™ today!
FashionFrontRunner™ Merritt Rea Fashion Stylist and Creative Consultant Direct: 917.825.2527 www.fashionfrontrunner.com **Awarded Top 30 Under 30 in 2013**
Our Creativity Knows No Boundaries Quilting 101
• Classes • Quilt Fabric & Notions • Long arm Quilting Service • Worth the Trip! • Knowledgeable Staff • Close to major highways
Designs by Shirlee 163B South Trade Street, Matthews, NC 28105 p: 704-841-7602 • f: 704-841-1136 designsbyshirlee@hotmail.com • www.designsbyshirlee.com Hours: Wed.-Fri. 11-5 • Sat. 10-3
Radiant Skin Awaits! La’Bella Body Scrub is an exfoliant that sloughs away dull, dead skin. It cleanses, moisturizes, and creates smooth & silky skin. Try it today! La'Bella Body Scrub Call 980.422.7571 for your Order
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
QBee Quilts, LLC South Point Village 10720 S. Tryon St. (Rte.49) Unit K Charlotte, NC 28273 704-588-2225 www.thequiltingbee.net diane@thequiltingbee.net
Are you one of a kind ... shouldn’t your jewelry be also? • Celebrating our 25th year in Matthews • Family owned and operated • In-house repairs • We specialize and believe in.... renovate, or recycle and redesign • Free cleaning and inspection of your jewlery
31
Seen In The City » Photos By Jim Pierson Photography
SEENINTHECITY Out & About In Charlotte
ress for Success held its fourth annual Power Walk May 17 at Freedom Park. The 5K featured over 200 participants, including several men who were brave enough to tackle the Stiletto Swagger, to benefit Dress for Success programs. Erica Bryant emceed the event, and fun was had by all.
Walkers signing in for the race.
Pete Marco and his sassy pumps won “Best in Show, People’s Choice.” From left: Kendall Alley, Wells Fargo; Garrett Lucas, Adams Outdoor Advertising; Charles Bowman, Bank of America; Riley Fields, Carolina Panthers; Kerry Barr O’Connor, Dress for Success Charlotte; Pete Marco, Luquire George Andrews; Lou Amico, L.A. Management; Mark Miller, Accenture. Back Row: Tim O’Connor, First Citizens; John Paul Galles, Greater Charlotte Biz; Tim Barber, King and Spalding; Tom Lane, Center for Intentional Leadership; and Glenn Burkins, QCityMetro.
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 32
Garrett Lucas earned the title of “Best Swaggerer.”
The 5K benefited Dress for Success.
Sierra smiles for the camera.
Riley Fields, with Carolina Panthers, straps on his heels.
The Business Of Excellence NAWBO-Charlotte’s 2014 Award Winners By Dana Durham | Photography By Donna Jernigan Meinhold
he Charlotte Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners celebrated its annual awards gala this spring, handing out much-deserved accolades to women in the business community. Each year, NAWBO spotlights the achievements and accomplishments of professional women business owners in the Queen City. This year, LeeAnn Shattuck, of Women’s Automotive Solutions, earned the honor of Business Owner of the Year, and Nicole Odom, of Dogtopia, won the Rising Star Award. Here’s a peek at the women behind the 2014 awards:
Business Owner Of The Year
hard with a top business coach over the last two years to redefine myself and my business. Two years ago, I was seriously considering throwing in the towel and going back to a ‘real job.’ Today, I’m building an empire based on empowering women around the country and possibly the world. Winning this award is confirmation that all my hard work is paying off, and I have finally found my path.”
Rising Star Award Nicole Odom, the owner of Dogtopia Charlotte, was deemed the Rising Star Award winner in 2014. Since March 2010, Odom has been offering boutique pet services to Charlotteans who are crazy about their canines. Dogtopia of Charlotte offers doggie daycare, overnight boarding, grooming, and more. “I think what makes Dogtopia stand out from our competitors is the customer experience that we provide,” Odom says. “We don’t just take your dog in the morning and hand them back at the end of the day. We like to tell each parent a story about who their dog played with, and what they did all day, even if the dog comes every single day. We also like to do fun activities such as monthly birthday parties, community events, customer appreciation events, etc. We share a lot of photos and things on our social media sites so our parents can see how much fun their dog is having with us.” Odom wasn’t always in the pet-care business. She began her career as an ensign in the United States Navy, where she was first stationed in Pensacola, Fla., for flight school. She transitioned into public relations at Carrier Air Wing FIVE in Atsugi, Japan, and then used those skills to get defense contract work in Washington, D.C.
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
LeeAnn Shattuck, of Women’s Automotive Solutions, is known nationally as “The Car Chick.” So it's only fitting she has been a car lover her entire life. Over the years, she has raced “anything with wheels” on a dazzling array of courses, from road courses to drag strips. Through Women’s Automotive Solutions, Shattuck shares her wealth of car knowledge with women (and men) around the country. Shattuck wishes every woman driver knew that learning “high-performance” driving skills isn’t just for guys. She notes that women are at greater risk of being in traffic accidents today because of all the distractions — from kids to cell phones to work demands. “Learning those skills makes you a safer driver overall, in whatever you drive every day in your life — even a minivan!” she says. “Women don’t typically learn advanced driving skills because those skills are taught in ‘racing’ type environments, which often intimidate or don’t interest women. As a result, women
aren’t taking the opportunity to learn the advanced skills that would significantly reduce their chances of being in a traffic accident.” Shattuck helps educate women on purchasing and maintaining the perfect vehicle for them. She believes every car owner should feel passionately about her automobile. “In America, cars tell you so much about their owners — not just your financial status, but your lifestyle and personality,” Shattuck says. “That’s why I created the ‘My Perfect Car’ process, which allows me to identify the perfect car for a client based on his or her budget, lifestyle and personality. I believe that a vehicle should not just meet your needs, but should suit you. You should love your car.” Shattuck has a degree in quantitative economics from Stanford University, and worked with Accenture and IBM before serving as a consultant for a variety of corporations. In 2006, she left the corporate world to become an entrepreneur, and opened a business devoted to changing the way women buy cars. She is now the co-owner and “chief car chick” of Women’s Automotive Solutions, a unique car buying service that helps women car buyers save time and money, while avoiding frustration. Shattuck is a popular speaker with women’s business and social organizations, and she publishes a monthly newsletter and blog. She is launching Car Chick TV, a series of empowering and educational videos on YouTube (www.CarChickTV.com). “My goal is to be the No. 1 trusted resource for women when it comes to cars,” she says. Shattuck was thrilled to win the Business Owner of the Year Award, in part because she has devoted time and effort in the last two years to improving her business. “Winning this award means so much to me,” she says. “I have been working very
33
Hurricane Katrina changed Odom forever, however. After volunteering in Louisiana and working firsthand with pet devastation, she became passionate about opening a dog daycare franchise. She took the plunge into entrepreneurship in 2010, and since that time, Dogtopia has become a hit in the Queen City, winning several readers’ choice awards in various local publications. In 2012 and 2013, Dogtopia of Charlotte was also named “best doggie daycare” by UberDog Training. Over the years, Odom has found that women will do darn near anything for their pets. “So many people have dogs instead of babies these days, that we really do treat them as our children,” she says. “We have several customers who have a different collar for their dog each time they come in, and even different outfits for the day or the season. We love it! Those are our kind of people. You know they want the absolute best for their dog — and if they’re bringing their dog to us, they must think we’re the best in the daycare/boarding/grooming business. It makes us feel really fantastic to have their trust and stamp of approval.” Odom has been recognized for her hard work and dedication to the location’s success. She was a finalist for NAWBO’s
NAWBO Awards Service Several notable women were recognized as Community Leadership Award winners in 2014: Kelley Earnhardt Miller, co-owner of JR Motorsports Jill Dineen, executive director of Classroom Central Elaine Marshall, North Carolina Secretary of State
Rising Star Award in 2013; Franchise Times also featured her in June 2013. In 2013, Odom received the Spirit Award at Dogtopia’s annual conference. Odom was thrilled to win NAWBO’s Rising Star Award. “Winning the Rising Star Award is such an incredible honor,”
she says. “When I look at my fellow finalists and their businesses, I know the judges must have had an incredibly difficult choice to make. It’s such a great feeling knowing four-plus years of hard work have brought me into such great company.” [TCW]
NorthCarolinaHeadacheCenter.com Advanced Laser and Microcurrent Technologies
HEADACHES MIGRAINES TMJ/TMD NECK PAIN THE DAILY GRIND www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 34
Dr. Thomas Layton
Located in Elizabeth Near Uptown Charlotte 225 N Torrence Street
704.412.9029
make your
Read on to meet professionals who will help you take the next step
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
move
35
REAL Experience
Real Results Scott Pridemore founded Pridemore Properties after being affiliated for 14 years with a large Charlotte real estate firm. In spite of the soft real estate market, Pridemore and his team have experienced their most successful years yet. With an aggressive marketing plan to get listings sold, Pridemore has found unique ways to guide his clients through a challenging real estate market. “A satisfied client is not enough. It’s about constantly striving to produce results beyond and out of the ordinary,” Pridemore says.
Kathy Kreshon Carver, of RE/MAX Metro Realty, has over 24 years of experience in the business. Her specialties include development land, farm and land, luxury homes, foreclosure properties and relocation, among others. Over the years, Carver has found that marketing is very important, and she has developed a team of experts to help her with staging, photography, and marketing. “With a team of experts to help me, we can get the job done in the least amount of time and for the most profit to the seller!” she says.
Scott Pridemore scott@pridemoreproperties.com 704/562-0792
Kathy Kreshon Carver Charlotteresults@yahoo.com 704/714-6695
What is your home worth?
Kathy Kreshon Carver RE/MAX Metro Realty
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 36
704-714-6695-direct 704-451-5478-cell 704-625-2342-fax charlotteresults@yahoo.com
5212 Wimbleton Court • MLS # 3013774 5650 Merrymount Drive • MLS # 3003407 Cottage style patio home in Craftsman style transitional on gated community wooded cul-de-sac lot!
Find out for FREE!!! www.MyCharlotteHomeValue.org 6028 Bentway Drive • MLS # 3009887 Contemporary on 0.86 acres, Needs “T L C”
5827 Bentway Drive • MLS # 2219182 Elegant stucco on Carmel’s golf course 10th green
Website provided as a service by: Scott Pridemore, Realtor® Pridemore Properties
615 Briar Patch Terrace, Marvin NC 28173 List Price $779,000
518 Halliwell Street, Charlotte NC 28262 List Price: $189,000
Gorgeous 5bed 3 1/2 bath home with 4,892 square feet of living space, main level master suite, gourmet kitchen with huge breakfast room, screen porch w/tongue & groove ceiling, hardwoods, heavy millwork throughout and open floor plan with back staircase.
This wonderful 3bed/2.5 bath home has 2,234 square feet of living space with open floor plan. The kitchen has SS appliances, new tile flooring, breakfast bar that opens into breakfast area and great room which overlooks the rear yard. There is a large deck with built-in table and seating covered by a pergola. The great room has vaulted ceilings, fireplace and hardwood flooring. There is a large master bedroom w/trey ceiling, ceiling fan and master bath suite which includes dual vanities, and a garden tub with separate shower.
For more information or to schedule a preview contact: Danielle Nanney
211 East Boulevard | Charlotte, North Carolina 28203
| P | 704.442.0000 | F | 704.494.7940 13850 Ballantyne Corporate Place | Charlotte, North Carolina 28277
Broker NC & SC/Realtor Accredited Staging Professional, SPS, BPOR ••••••••••••••••••••••••
| P | 704.887.3416 | F | 704.494.7940
Cell: 704.651.1017 • Fax: 704.865.8872 Danielle.Nanney@ HendersonProperties.com
Committed to you and your family Family Law • Estate Planning • Business Law Assisted Reproductive Technology
For more information or to schedule a preview contact: Lisa Ratledge SFR, ABR Henderson Properties NC/SC Broker, REALTOR ••••••••••••••••••••••••
704-651-3131 lratledge@hendersonproperties.com
www.HendersonProperties.com
Susan M. Committed to providing an Webber excellent lending experience usan’s extensive experience, commitment to excellence, caring, and compassionate style are her greatest strengths as a lender. Susan is a native of Charlotte and has over 44 years in the Charlotte market. She is a true sales professional providing the upmost world class concierge service. Her drive to provide Homebuyers with a fast, efficient and hassle-free lending experience has earned her years of recognition as a top lending professional. Susan specializes in creative solutions for self-employed and 1099 employees. Her unique “common sense” approach has helped her in working with all borrowers. Susan is the personal choice as a Mortgage Lender for several builders and numerous award-winning real estate agents.
Susan M. Webber
Vice President • Mortgage Division Direct: 704.408.1222 Email: swebber@cbcnationalbank.com Apply Online: www.cbchomeloans.com/susanwebber
Melissa Benton Executive Assistant: 704.626.6970 Email: mbenton@cbcnationalbank.com
10 day closing available! Ask me how! Big Enough to MATTER...Small Enough to CARE 5950 Fairview Road • Suite 150 • Charlotte, NC 28210
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Susan enjoys being involved in the community, fundraising for ACS, breast cancer research and a local AAU Basketball team. She is the owner of two local gift shops in Pineville and Ft Mill and loves to draw and paint and decorate.
37
Feature » By Jackie Andolino Fogartie » Photos By Ken Noblezada
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Truckin’
38
Women Rule The Food Truck Scene
{
Finding The Food
Meals On Wheels
Unlike brick-and-mortar restaurants, food trucks are on the move. To see when one of these ladies is coming to your neck of the woods, you can follow their trucks on Twitter:
Heidi Bancker serves up Italian specialties with her truck Napolitanos, which has been around since 2011. Kelli Crisan dishes up eclectic items such as her famous truffle fries with Roaming Fork, also in business since 2011. And Emma Merisier has been painting the town pink with her hard-to-miss Southern Cake Queen truck for years.
@roamingforkNC | @southerncake | @NapolitanosMkt
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
izzling Italian beef on a grill, truffle fries dripping with a crunchy coating, and wafts of freshly baked red velvet cupcakes … all are sounds, sights and smells you might encounter in a state-of-the-art restaurant kitchen. But for three local ladies, these savory smells are coming right out of their food truck, and served piping hot to hungry Charlotteans every day. You’d have to be living under a rock not to know that the food truck scene has exploded in Charlotte. Food trucks are among the latest culinary trend in Charlotte. There are approximately 53 trucks rolling around town as of last count, and about eight of them are women owned. From Food Truck Friday, to uptown lunch hotspots on wheels, it’s very likely you regularly pick up a meal from a food truck these days. For three entrepreneurial women, food trucks aren’t a fad — they are their bread and butter.
39
Feature » By Jackie Andolino Fogartie » Photos By Ken Noblezada www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 40
Surprisingly, none of the three women had much experience in the restaurant business before embarking on their mobile journeys. In fact, many of them used to work in Corporate America. All three women took huge leaps of faith, leaving steady paychecks for an uncertain future in the food truck world. In Bancker’s case, the shaky economy and recession encouraged her to consider entrepreneurship, and after careful research she found that a food truck was less risky than a brick and mortar restaurant. For Crisan, food was a passion — one that she traveled around the world to experience. Upon realizing the lack of food trucks in Charlotte, she decided her next adventure would be to start her own food truck business. Merisier says the explosion of the food truck scene has helped her business. As interest in food trucks grew, so did media coverage — and, of course, hungry customers. For all three women, sales have grown exponentially since their business beginnings. Merisier and Crisan have tripled their growth in the last few years, and Bancker has launched a product line that ships nationwide. Some of the food truck fad can be traced to Food Truck Friday, held every Friday in South End. The event has an enormous following, with lines lasting sometimes an hour or more. Crisan recalls the beginning of Food Truck Friday. “I remember how slow it started,” she says. “I sat in the food truck lot by myself, running in and out of the art galleries in South End trying to convince the folks to eat from our truck. They looked at me like I was nuts! One year later, I was serving 200plus meals in a few hours’ time.” Social media has been a huge part of the growth of the food truck industry. Through online updates and Facebook posts, food truck owners can let customers know where the mobile
restaurants will be on a day-to-day basis. Most people don’t realize the immense amount of work that goes into owning a food truck. Merisier says, “Many are surprised I don’t bake on the truck! I bake everything at our commercial kitchen, then load the truck and sell. Sometimes I’m in the kitchen for 12 hours.” Long hours are only one of the unique challenges of the business. Bancker says not all menu items are food-truck friendly, due to the length of preparation or equipment needed to
execute. And just like any small business, the women all wear many hats — answering emails, handling their social media and customer service needs, and of course, cooking and baking. Each truck has its specialty, and the women all agree that to stay competitive in the Charlotte food truck market, menus must be creative. One of the biggest challenges that food trucks face is one that doesn’t affect a brick and mortar restaurant: weather. Severe weather can not only disrupt business, but also cause cancellation of service, which can lead to loss of food and dollars. Bancker has had years of success selling zeppolis, Chicago Italian beef and vegetarian options like portabella mushroom sliders. Crisan’s menu ranges from blackened fish tacos, pork grilled cheese, and the everpopular parmesan herb white truffle fries. Merisier, a selftaught baker, says her hottest sellers are her decadent salted caramel cupcakes, as well as red velvet cheesecake brownies. As with most chefs, the food truck industry seems to be mostly a boys’ club, but all of the owners have respect for one another. “I find it fun to go up against ‘the boys’ on food truck challenge events,” Crisan says. “For example, I was the only lady in the Charlotte Food Truck Fight put on by Relay For Life in 2013, and I won Best Food Truck — People’s Choice Award against nine other trucks — all run by men.” Food trucks are a fixture in the Queen City. The next time you’re looking for a hot meal or snack, make sure to check out one of these food trucks for a restaurant experience like no other. [TCW] When Jackie Andolino Fogartie isn’t planning events or writing blogs, you can find her chasing down food trucks all over town.
plaza Midwood
Noda
Pilates • Dance • Barre • Yoga Promoting the joy of movement through high quality instruction, community classes and special events. Specializing in Fitness and Dance for adults and youth. 1111 Hawthorne Lane • 980.329.6683 • www.movestudiocharlotte.com
Beginner & All Levels Yoga Classes Workshops & Yoga Teacher Trainings 908 E. 35th Street | Charlotte, NC 28205
www.nodayoga.com
We bring you relaxation and healing from the moment you step through our door. Our soothing space and kind staff will take care of you as the world busily drifts by outside.
Full schedule of yoga classes 2 weeks for $20 for new students 4 licensed massage therapists New client rate of $49 for a 60-Minute Swedish or Deep Tissue Weekly alternative healing classes Guided meditation, breathwork, belly dancing, and more! Locally sourced tea & coffee lounge Open 7 days a week from 8am – 7pm
Collection of Retail from Jewelry 1912 Commonwealth Ave. to Clothing featuring a variety of Charlotte, NC 28205 local artisans.
704.266.1443 • www.okracharlotte.com
Edgeline Flats doesn’t just adorn one of Charlotte’s best-known streets, this off beat apartment community distinguishes itself with an industrial vibe. Our cinderblock walls, stained concrete flooring and chromatic exterior all speak to the culture of our community. Let your apartment reflect your personality. Check out our spacious new 1 & 2 bedroom apartments. Call 704-494-1919 today to take advantage of our move in specials.
www.edgelineflats.com
Welcome to Yarnhouse Large selection of fine, unique yarns & fibers. Wide variety of knit & crochet notions, patterns, supplies & gifts. Knitting & crocheting classes for all levels. Free knitting & crocheting circles Sundays @ 1 p.m. & Thursdays @ 6 p.m. Located next to Amelie’s in NoDa, Charlotte’s Historic Arts District.
Please visit our unique and creative space to purchase fabulous yarns and fibers.
2424 N. Davidson St. Suite 106-A • 704-335-8531 info@yarnhouseknits.com • www.yarnhouseknits.com
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Here everyone can share ideas, inspirations, patterns, stories, and advice. Our community atmosphere creates an exciting environment for project ideas.
41
PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRAY WALKER
Dwellings Âť By Karsen Price
Top Trends In Wall Treatments
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
42
Wall To Wall
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
ome décor, like fashion, is a giant revolving door … with things going in and out of style faster than you can say “en vogue.” But did you ever really think that wallpaper would be back in style? Well, it is, and in a big way. Wallpaper treatments, along with unique paint techniques, are suddenly one of the hottest trends to hit the home decorating world, providing a unique way to revamp homes with a pop of color and a touch of texture.
43
Dwellings » By Karsen Price
Texture Me
Pretty
Ways To Wallpaper ray Walker offers tips for those who are looking to incorporate wall treatments into their homes: What is hot with wallpaper today? “Texture is so key to the resurgence in wallpaper’s popularity,” she says. “The natural materials offer great texture, like grasscloth, seagrass and jute. And then there are fantastic flocked papers now — they have almost the same texture as a cut velvet cloth. I also like the papers that look purposely crinkled on the wall. That’s a fun texture.” What colors are popular? Walker says that, despite Pantone’s proclamation that radiant orchid is the color of the year, she has found that blue is the most popular hue. “That includes pastels to purple-blues to green-blues to deep navy and bright cobalt. And gray is still going strong, which of course I love,” she says with a laugh. Is this a resurgence of faux painting? “The types of paint techniques that are popular now are more about geometric shapes and ombres than paintings that mimic landscapes or trompe l’oeil,” she says. “It’s about big bold stripes and chevrons, and even graduated colors that start out lighter near the ceiling and get darker down near the floor — that’s a fun ombre technique, like the one that we’ve been seeing in women’s hair color.”
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 44
Describe your favorite wall treatment design that you’ve completed recently. Walker says her favorite technique is found in her own home. “I’m still in love with my entryway, which features handpainted butterflies in a bold coral color,” she says. “I’ve also done a big stripe in brown and green in a girl’s room that was fun to do. And I am crazy about any kind of wallpaper — so I use those frequently.”
“There is no limit to what you can do, and that really appeals to the creative side of interior design. I think people have become bored with plain walls. Wall coverings and paint treatments allow you to change things up.” — Gray Walker They Call It A Comeback Interior designer Gray Walker says wallpaper and paint treatments became a “no-no” back in the 1990s, but in the last year, she has seen a revival of the technique. But stop that cringe in mid-air! Walker notes that the new style of wallpapers has eliminated all the things you once hated about wallpaper — namely the gooey impossible mess of applying, and the even more impossible task of taking it down. “The new wallpapers are not like the ones that gave wallpaper a bad reputation — they are easier to apply
and to remove, and they have amazing designs and textures,” Walker says. “People are finally realizing that paint and wallpaper can actually be inexpensive ways to completely change the design of a room. You can use wallpaper or new paint techniques to create a focal wall, to add texture to a room, and to really show personality.” Wipe that flashback of countryquaint chickens or cutesy flowers out of your mind. Today’s wallpaper selections are fresh, clean and even glamorous, if you so choose. Walker says the options are endless, from a
natural look with jute or grasscloth, to a glam style with foil or flocked paper. Or, if you have a steady hand and a good roll of tape, you can create your own designs with paint, including bold stripes or chevrons. What inspired the wallpaper comeback? “One was that the papers and coverings themselves have changed,� she says. “The original reason that people began to dislike wallpaper is that it almost took a demolition to get it off your wall once it was on there! That isn’t the case today.� She adds, “The second reason is because the designs are so inspiring and there are so many ideas to choose from. You can go geometric, have a subtle flora, or even add texture to the wall. There is no limit to what you can do, and that really appeals to the creative side of interior design. I think people have become bored with plain walls. Wall coverings and paint treatments allow you to change things up.� Walker doesn’t just love wallpaper; paint is a fun design tool as well. “For paints, I love Benjamin Moore, particularly
1037 Muslin, which is a great neutral,â€? she says. “I also love Farrow & Ball’s 90 Chinese Blue — it’s the perfect ‘old world’ blue with a serious pop for glamour. I often find that I create my own colors by tweaking the formulas, which you can do for your home, too.â€? For the general public, it’s somewhat of a mystery who decides what trends are hot or cold. Walker says the best ideas for home dĂŠcor come from its sister world — fashion. “I think the best ideas come right off the runway,â€? Walker says. She points out that on recent runways there has been a really strong trend for metallic fabrics and patterns. Likewise, foil wallpapers are becoming popular. Walker says they add the same sheen and reflective light that make metallic fabrics so popular. “And honestly,â€? she says, “nothing is really new. It’s how we reimagine things from our past, how we turn them and make them something different that really gives us great ideas for today.â€? [TCW]
TOLEARNMORE Visit Graywalkerinteriors.com.
PATRIOTIC PA P ATRIOT TIC I JULY LY with Extra Extra Sa Savings vings throughout the Stor throughout Store e
SAVE AN EXTRA
20-40%*
**Applies to in-stock only *Some exclusions apply
LIVE LIFE OUTD UTDOORS OORS CO OMFORTABLY MFORTABLY NORTHLAKE 6PLWK &RUQHUV %OYG &KDUORWWH ‡ 704-909-2420 NOR THLAKE 6PLWK &RUQHUV %OYG &KDUORWWH ‡ 704-909-2420 6PLWK &RUQHUV %OYG &KDUORWWH ‡ 704-909-2420 0RQURH 5G &KDUORWWH ‡ 704-332-4139 SOUTH 0RQURH 5G &KDUORWWH ‡
TheHearthandPatio.com
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Make Mak e it a
45
Health Flash » By Beth Howard
HEALTHFLASH An Apple A Day & Other Wisdom
No.1 Supplements For Women At Midlife
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 46
ickey Barber, M.D., is used to seeing women put their own health second to that of their children’s and spouse’s. “I always tell them, ‘You need to put your oxygen mask on first,’ ” says Barber, who specializes in age management, with offices in Charlotte and Charleston, S.C. Proper nutrition is the first step, but it’s not always possible to get everything you need from food — especially as you age. Absorption of some nutrients diminishes as you get older. Other factors, such as medications, certain health concerns and sheer lack of time, can challenge your ability to take in optimal quantities.
Here are a few supplements to consider as you navigate the rough waters of midlife:
Vitamin D The concern: bone loss. It begins in your 30s, Barber says. “So, jumping on the bone band wagon at 59 is a little late,� she says. D-rich foods include salmon and eggs, but you should also have your doctor check your blood levels. Vitamin D deficiency is surprisingly common. If you test low, take vitamin D3, starting at 2000 IUs daily. This is higher than that recommended by public health officials, but, says Barber, “It’s a pretty benign vitamin.�
B-12 The concern: brain function. If you eat a vegetarian diet, you’re more at risk of deficiency, since animal protein is a primary source of the vitamin. Although you can get it through dairy, eggs and some fortified cereals, you may still need more — even if you eat meat. “Many patients ages 45-50 are deficient,� Barber says. And the risk is
normal mix of healthy bacteria in your gastrointestinal system, leading to stomach upset and conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome. Barber recommends looking for a supplement containing at least 10 billion colonyforming units (CFUs) and more than one strain of “good� bacteria.
The concern: heart health. Fish oil has been shown to lower cholesterol, among other heart benefits, which comes in handy after menopause, when estrogen’s protective effects begin to wane. Just be sure to check the label for the amounts of the two key omega-3 fats — EPA and DHA. The two combined should add up to at least 1000 milligrams, with about 400 coming from DHA and 600 from EPA.
Magnesium The concern: blood pressure control. Low magnesium can be a problem as women age, especially if they are avoiding gluten. Edamame (soy beans) and black beans are a good source, but 400 micrograms daily of magnesium will help you account for any deficiency.
The concern: gut health. Few Americans get enough fiber in their diets — most of the breads we eat don’t have much and it’s tough to get the six to 10 daily servings of fruits and vegetables recommended for optimal health, and fiber. Barber recommends a gentle supplement washed down with lots of water to both improve GI symptoms and allow the nutrients in foods to be properly absorbed.
Resveratrol
The concern: GI woes. Stress, a poor diet and antibiotics, among other culprits, can throw off the
The concern: immune function. Studies suggest this super-antioxidant — a key component in red wine — packs a big punch, improving immunity and cardiovascular health, Barber says.
Children’s Rooms Closets & Wardrobes • Kitchens & Pantries Home Offices • Furniture Placement First hour of organizational services complimentary with purchase of at least 2 hours
Call now for a complimentary consultation (704) 421-3088 @QueensOfClutter
Queens of Clutter
www.queensofclutter.com Lakeside Neurology Lakeside Neurology offers a more natural, holistic approach to your medical problems including:
‡ 9LWDPLQ 7HVWLQJ 'HOD\HG )RRG $OOHUJ\ 7HVWLQJ FDXVH RI PDQ\ FKURQLF LOOQHVVHV ‡
)'$ DSSURYHG PHGLFDO VXSSOHPHQWV IRU WKH WUHDWPHQW RI ,QVRPQLD )LEURP\DOJLD 3HULSKHUDO 1HXURSDWK\ &KURQLF 3DLQ DQG 2EHVLW\
‡
(YDOXDWLRQ DQG WUHDWPHQW IRU 'HPHQWLD 0 6 (SLOHSV\ &DUSDO 7XQQHO 6\QGURPH 1HFN DQG %DFN SDLQ 3DUNLQVRQ¡V 'LVHDVH 1HXUDOJLD +HDGDFKHV 'L]]LQHVV
‡ %272; Œ IRU PLJUDLQH SUHYHQWLRQ
Folic Acid The concern: heart and brain health. Essential prenatally for preventing spina bifida, folate plays an important role after 40. A folate deficiency can contribute to elevated homocysteine, a marker for inflammation associated with dementia and heart disease. Barber recommends 400-800 micrograms a day. [TCW]
Lori Schneider,, M.D. New York University School of Medicine
Awards received last three years running “Patients’ Choice� Award ard “Compassionate Physicians� Award
704-896-5591
/LYHUSRRO 3NZ\ 6WH $ ‡ &RUQHOLXV ‡ 1& /LYHUSRRO 3NZ\ 6WH /LYHUSRRO 3NZ\ 6WH $ ‡ &RUQHOLXV ‡ 1&
www.drlorischneider.com www.drlorischneider www .drlorischneider.com
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014
Probiotics
Specializing in de-cluttering, organizing and managing homes and businesses.
Fish Oil
Fiber
higher if you are taking a stomach acid-blocking medication such as Prolisec, which Barber says changes the environment of the gut, making it harder to absorb B-12. Barber suggests a sublingual form of the vitamin, or you can get an injection from your doctor.
QUEENS OF CLUTTER
47
Ask The Expert
Direct Bonding For Immediate Repairs Of Front Teeth Dr. Ross W. Nash
red filling on Old, discolo tooth front
Ross W. Nash, DDS, is one of only 46 Accredited Fellows in the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, meaning he has acquired extraordinary skills in the area of esthetic and cosmetic dentistry.
ooth colored composite resin materials can be used to restore broken or decayed teeth and the process can be performed in a single appointment. This type of dentistry requires both technical and artistic ability from the provider. Direct bonding can be the process of choice for many clinical situations and the restorations can usually be placed at a lower fee than other types of esthetic restorations that require a laboratory process. Jennifer had a sporting accident in her youth and fractured her front tooth. It was repaired and the material had discolored with time. The old restoration was removed and replaced with a new generation of esthetic composite resin.
T
Q: What is composite resin? A: Composite resin is made of ceramic particles in a plastic matrix. The glass provides most of the strength and esthetics and the resin binds the ceramic particles together and attaches the material to the tooth. Q: How does the composite resin stay on the tooth? A: The materials are attached to the tooth through a process called adhesion or “bonding.” The lamination that results between the tooth and the restorative material can actually strengthen the tooth and the composite resin restoration itself.
Broken front tooth prepar ed for new restora tion
The final result with a new composite resin restoration
Q: How long will bonded composite restorations last? A: When placed in the proper clinical situations and with good home care and maintenance by the patient, a direct composite restoration can last for many years. www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 48
Jennifer’s
403 Gilead Road, Suite E • Huntersville 704/895-7660 CosmeticDentistryofthe Carolinas.com
new smil e
GETACQUAINTED REACH OVER 120,000 WOMEN WHO WANT TO DO BUSINESS WITH YOU
ACUPUNCTURE
FINANCIAL MATTERS
SERVICES
Acupuncture & Herbal Experts From China With 32 Years Clinical Experience Dr. Jeffery (JiFei) Wang (OMD; L.Ac. & CH) Dr. Mary (Qing) Ren (OMD; L.Ac. & CH)
s s s s s s s
Pain Management Infertility Menopause Fibromyalgia Stress/Depression Insomnia Sciatica/Arthritis
704-968-0351 s High Cholesterol s Stroke s Headache/Migraine s Acne/IBS s Over-Weight s Sports Injury s Whiplash from Auto Accident
7810 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. U Suite 300 Charlotte, NC 28277 s www.ballantyneacupuncture.com
BEAUTY/FASHION Certified with 13+ years of experience MAY 2013 VOL 17 | NO 1 | COMPLIMENTARY
Permanent Facial Make-up by Judy
Mama’s
Got A Brand
New Bag
704-846-8876
Reach Charlotte’s most sophisticated, well educated women for as little as $175 with an ad on this page.
Fancy That
Judy Fairchild
Brows, Eyeliner, Lips & More!
Melissa Gibbs & The Queen City’s Mom Prom
Behind The Scenes Arden McLaughlin, Katie Tyler & more
www.permanentmakeupbyjudy.com
Call us for all the details 704-677-9159.
It’s time to make your date with
Today’s Charlotte Woman’s August 2014
featuring:
ANNUAL SUCCESS ISSUE
The Success of Women throughout the Charlotte area!
Includes:
PROFESSIONAL PROFILES Full page, Full color: $1,200
• A new, unique focus on women’s success throughout the Charlotte area • Features about career-oriented topics Space deadline: June 18, 2014 • Award winning women Display Ads: July 9, 2014
A 500 word article, with photography, showcasing your success and what makes you the best at what you do!
Contact your advertising executive or Sharon Simpson at 704-677-9159 • Sharon@todayscharlottewomanmag.com www.todayscharlottewomanmag.com
Half Page, Full color: $800
PROFESSIONAL SPOTLIGHT A 200 word article, with photography showcasing your success and what makes you the best at what you do! 49
I Really Think » By Tamara Titus
a v i V
la Restoration!
www.TodaysCharlotteWomanMag.com | July 2014 50
grew up in the wrong house. Every day when I stepped off the school bus and looked toward the modest brick ranch where my family lived, my heart sank. I longed for a Queen Anne or an Italianate Victorian. At dinner I would announce, “When I get married and buy a house, it’ll be a big old wooden one. With a huge porch and stained glass windows.” My dad never missed a beat. “Fantastic. If you start painting it in January, you might finish by December,” he said. Twenty years later, my husband and I bought a bungalow in historic Dilworth, and I discovered firsthand the joys, and pitfalls, of owning a 100-year-old house. We spent 15 years restoring and renovating our home. By 2013, I was beginning to wonder if I’d exhausted my passion, in addition to our bank account. Then an email arrived from Preservation North Carolina. Would we like to join the nonprofit on a trip to Havana, Cuba? My brain buzzed. Havana! Three hundred years of colonial architecture, and all of it frozen in time. No sky-
scrapers, no infill. Just a city full of old cars and beautiful buildings. I mailed our deposit the next morning. When we met our tour guide in Miami the following April, I was expecting instructions on how not to end up in a Cuban jail. Our guide covered that, but most of his advice was more mundane. “I hope everybody likes rice and beans, because Cuba is not a culinary destination. And they’ve got different microbes over there. Whatever you do, don’t drink the water,” he said. The next day, we got a bird’s eye view of Havana from the rooftop of the Hotel Parque Central. Three-story neoclassical and Baroque buildings stretched all the way to the sea. Many had Moorish or Spanish details, and many were missing their roofs. One pale blue building had enough ornamentation to rival a wedding cake. Laundry hung from stone balconies everywhere, and in the square below, classic cars competed with rickshaws for tourist dollars. For a week, we toured Havana and met with architects, historians and economists who explained the
challenges they faced. La Habana Vieja had been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, but most of the public restrooms lacked toilet seats. On average, three buildings collapsed every day. A gallon of paint cost a third of a month’s salary, and many Cubans couldn’t afford to maintain their homes. My husband and I wandered down the Prado one morning and noticed a man holding a turtle in one hand and a chicken in the other. I quickly snapped his picture. “Is that a Santeria sacrifice or supper?” I whispered as we walked toward the Malecón. My husband grinned. “Probably both,” he said. During our last meal in Havana, I asked members of our group to describe the Cuban people in one word. I heard hopeful. Resourceful. Resilient. Good news for a country so rich in architectural treasures. Good news for preservationists everywhere. [TCW] Tamara Titus holds the Dilworth Resident seat on the Charlotte Historic District Commission.
You know what they say …
Everything old is new again.
Acupuncture. There’s a reason it’s been around for over 2,000 years.
Find out why celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow have their Acupuncturist on speed dial. Acupuncture works. It treats 40 different conditions, including: • weight loss • arthritis • migraine headaches • infertility • chronic pain • anxiety Acupuncturist Andrea Perullo de Ledesma was trained in the most prestigious Chinese Medicine School in New York City, as well as interned in various hospitals in China and South Africa. With over a decade’s worth of experience, she can help you with any of your health concerns.
Try something new this year. Try good health. Try acupuncture.
Healing Hands Acupuncture & Herbal Clinic Andrea Perullo de Ledesma, L.Ac., M.S. 401 East Boulevard, Suite 110 | Charlotte, NC 28203 704.578.7683 | thehealinghandsclinic.com | Andiperullo@aol.com
Boulevard Bazaar Charlotte’s Best Kept Secret! £ ¨ ¡ ¦¤ ¤ £ ¤ ¤ဠ£ Ŋ £¤နနန ¦¡ ¤§¡ ¡ £ ¦ ª ¤ ¡ £ ¦ ª ¨ ဘ ¦¤ ¡ ¯ ¦¤ ¤ ¡ဓ ¤§¡® ¦¡ ¤§¡ ထ ¦£ ထ ¤ Ŷ ¡ န ª ¡¢ ¨ £ ဘ
South End
Boulevard Bazaar Home Furnishings
£ ထ ¡ ဖ ¤ထ ၹၸ ဖၽ ¦ ထ ၹ ဖၽ ၻၸၺၹ ¡ ŏ¤ ¤¢ ¤ ¡ Ŵ ထ ¡¥ ¡ ၺႀၺၸၻ ဓ ၿၸၼဖၽၺၿဖၼၺၺၻ
ªªªန ¦ ¨ ¡ ¯ ¡န