Today's Charlotte Woman March 2013 by Sharon Simpson

MARCH 2013 VOL 16 | NO 11 | COMPLIMENTARY

Rebirth

& Renewal Nan Gray Seasons Of Change

Indulge Your Gypsy Spirit

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FromTheEditor

In Search Of Ahhhh pring is right around the corner, and the air is full of the promise of better days. Come March, the world is hinting at new green,the birds are fluffing their nests, and suddenly this phenomenon hits: Humans get all caught up in the idea of change. Rebirth, transformation, renewal … whatever you want to call it. It’s everywhere. As a concept,change offers that ahhhh feeling. It’s the stuff of any good TV commercial. You’ve seen the ads for those new-and-improved cleaners that, with one spray and one swipe, transform your old bathroom into a sparkling palace that would make any woman proud. There is no hard work involved in this amazing transformation. Ahhhh. Spring does that to us. It creates commercials in our brains, spinning us off into cotton-candy dreams of the freshness and happiness that will be ours, as soon as we accomplish that one big change. Wouldn’t it be great if I lost 10 pounds? Wouldn’t it be nice to make that dead zone in the yard a garden spot? Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we painted the whole house? The idea of change, from the world outside, to your wardrobe,to the size of your thighs,to the appearance of your home … it’s good stuff, isn’t it? However, embark on any one of those ideas, and that ahhhh feeling drops away and is replaced by a different one — what I like to call that “Give me an Advil” feeling. I know what I’m writing about. At this very moment I am entrenched in change. For the last several weeks I have been prepping our house for the market (in an effort to transform our bank account!). In today’s market, you can’t just have a nice house. You need to have the best

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 6

darn house in the neighborhood, and that means fresh paint, sparkling windows, no clutter, and closets as pristine as a china cabinet. And don’t forget about the lawn.The grass needs to be greener in your front yard. Literally. In other words, I am currently best friends with that “Give me an Advil” feeling. The truth is, change is hard. Renewal takes effort. It requires thought,concentration,and backbreaking work. It generally involves creaking open an already lean wallet. And it thrives on tenacity. Halfway through any grand master plan,change can start to feel like a real humdinger. Whose bright idea was it to plant a garden? What was wrong with the original color of the house? Who decided I don’t look fabulous exactly as I am? The other day, cleaning out my closets became a feat on par with climbing Mount Everest,only without the rewards. That’s when it hit me: Anything truly rewarding isn’t easy. That’s the way of the world. Each spring, we see the daffodils waving in the wind, their yellow beards perky and cheerful. But how do we know the transformation from bulb to flower isn’t painful to the plant? How do we know what that flower feels like pressing up through the hard soil in an effort to reach the atmosphere? Perhaps even the flowers need an Advil or two, right before enjoying their moment in the sun. So, hop to it this spring. Dive headfirst into your own personal transformation. Remind yourself how much happiness will be yours as soon as you emerge dripping from the pool of hard work. But in the meantime, be sure to grab a bottle of Advil.

Jessica Harvey Mrs. North Carolina America 2012

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Contents March

2013

30 42

DEPARTMENTS 6

Editor’s Letter In Search Of Ahhhh

12 On The Move Charlotte Women Making Strides

14 Girl Time Tips,Trends, And Fancies

26 Wine Up Austria Boasts Great Wines You’ve Never Heard Of Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 8

28 Meet Our Advertiser

30 At Home Spring Projects That Sing

36 Fashion Floral Styles Tease & Tempt

42 Beauty Fling Yourself Into Fragrance

50 Health Flash What You Need To Know To Stay Well

There’s No Place Like Rug & Home

54 Queen City Jewels Happenings You Don’t Want To Miss

Volume 16, Number 11 March 2013

Publisher

Sharon Simpson

Associate Publisher

Fern Howerin

Editor

Karsen Price

22 Sales Executive

Trisha Robinson

PROFILES 18 Island Time

Sales Executive

Kandace Hill’s Gypsy Spirit Leads To The Tropics

Carole Lambert

22 Shades Of Gray Nan Gray Navigates The Seasons Of Her Life

Creative Director

Kerrie Boys, idesign2, inc

18 Contributing Writers

Dawn Brookgreen Trevor Burton Dana Durham Allison Futterman Melinda Johnston Deb Mitchell Contributing Photographers

Michael C. Hernandez Glenn Roberson Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 10

Editor Contact: karsenprice@hotmail.com

FEATURES

P.O. Box 1676 • Cornelius, NC 28031 704.677.9159

46 It’s All About Renewal How Charlotte Women Push The Reset Button For Spring

58 Essay: Read On,The Old-Fashioned Way

OnTheCover Nan Gray navigates the seasons of her life. Photo By Glenn Roberson.

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© 2012 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.

TA NGIBL E

PHOTOGR A P H Y

Michael C. Hernandez Happy-Go-Lucky, Photographer 704.737.1737 | capturehappy.com

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

EDI TORI AL • M A RK E TING BRANDI NG • COMME RC IA L

H E

O V E

WOMEN MAKING STRIDES • BUSINESS SUCCESS STORIES

Job Changes/Promotions Heidi Z. Weilbaecher was hired to manage advertising, marketing, business development, and social media for the Roby Family of Companies, including Andrew Roby General Contractors, Roby Commercial, Robee Handyman, Roby Cross, and Roby Electric.

Fifth Third Bank has promoted Candice Mason from licensed sales assistant III to investment support manager.

Molly Aldridge was hired as the receptionist/office manager for Tyler 2 Construction.

Chapter have joined forces to form the Lupus Foundation of America, North Carolina Chapter, headquartered in Charlotte.

Awards & Installations The Nashville/Midsouth Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences has awarded GreyHawk Films’ Joanne Hock an Emmy® for her directorial work on the film “Trinity Goodheart,” an original GMC TV movie produced by Reelworks Studios.

Crystal M. Jones, a legal assistant with Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein LLP, has received the 2013 George Williams Award by the McCrorey Family YMCA. The award recognizes volunteers who demonstrate the mission of the YMCA and outstanding leadership and service.

New Business/Changes

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 12

BIOMechaniks health and wellness has opened a studio inside Carolina Sports Clinic, located at 8912 Blakeney Professional Drive, Suite 100. BIOMechaniks will offer corrective exercise, athletic performance, Retül bike fitting, corporate wellness, and educational seminars.

The Lupus Foundation of America, Piedmont Chapter and the Lupus Foundation of America,Winston-Triad

The following were elected to WFAE’s board of directors: Nash E. Long, III, chair; Melissa McGuire, vice chair; Michelle Maidt, treasurer; Cyrus Johnson Jr., secretary; and Roger Sarow, president.

Nanette Robinson, of Lake Norman Home Staging and Design, was awarded Best Of Remodeling 2013 by Houzz, the leading online platform for residential remodeling and design. For 2013, the award was given in two categories: customer satisfaction and design.

TellUsYourNews

On The Move Send announcements about hirings, promotions, honors, and new business

Casey Family Programs has named Antinette Blocker, a Family Partners staff member with Thompson Child & Family Focus, as one of five winners of the annual Casey Excellence for Children Awards. The awards recognize individuals who have demonstrated distinguished work, outstanding leadership, and dedication in improving the child welfare system.

development — all specifically about/for Charlotte-area women — along with high-resolution images to Editor Karsen Price at karsenprice@hotmail.com.

Worried about your teenager’s behavior? Not sure how to connect?

Build stronger family relationships.

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Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Elizabeth Kerr,

GirlTime T I P S ,

T R E N D S , A N D F A N C I E S COMPILED BY KARSEN PRICE

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Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 14

Holly Golightly, Anyone? Be A Socialite For A Day

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Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

ave you ever dreamed you were Holly Golightly, wandering the streets of New York City in your little black dress and pearls,peering intoTiffany’s storefront window, while“Moon River”played softly in the background? If you answered yes, you’ll be as excited as we are to hear that the dream can be a reality … of sorts. Two companies have joined forces to create a “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” themed mobile game for smartphones,unveiling a modern twist to the beloved Truman Capote classic. Mobile game developer CrowdStar has teamed up with Lulamae Productions to promote the March 2013 release of the Broadway production of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” With more than 30 million downloads of CrowdStar’s popular mobile games, such as Top Stylist, the developer has proven to be a leader at targeting fashion-oriented audiences. “CrowdStar has crafted a highly addicting game experience that encapsulates the charm, humor, and fashion iconography of the classic,”says Rita Drucker, EVP of marketing and branded entertainment at Indomitable Entertainment. “Our mobile- and gaming-focused take on ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’addresses this classic story in a way that we hope will allow women to role-play in the whimsy of this fashion icon,” says CrowdStar CEO and co-founder Jeffrey Tseng. For those of you who don’t know, Capote’s iconic character Holly Golightly was originally portrayed in the 1961 film by the ever-glamorous Audrey Hepburn, who shared the screen with a young,handsome George Peppard (best known as Hannibal in the 1980s “A-Team” TV show) portraying Fred. For the 2013 Broadway production, HBO’s “Game of Thrones” actress Emilia Clarke will play Holly Golightly, and Tony® nominee Sean Mathias is directing the production. The mobile game is available on iOS, Android, and Amazon for 99 cents. Visit crowdstar.com for information.

THERE’S NOTHING SMART ABOUT IGNORING WISDOM TEETH

GirlTime

Sign Off For Breast Cancer mother-daughter team has joined forces to encourage lingerie-giant Victoria’s Secret to make a line of “survivor”mastectomy bras for breast cancer survivors, proving that women can band together to affect change in the world. Virginia native Allana Maiden and her mother, Debbie Barrett,a breast cancer survivor, collected 118,000 signatures through a Change.org petition. They hand-delivered the signatures to Victoria’s Secret’s New York office in the store’s iconic striped pink shopping bags. They then implored the lingerie company, owned by Limited Brands, to create a line of mastectomy bras to help survivors feel beautiful again. As a result, Victoria’s Secret is exploring possible development of such a product. Maiden and Barrett shared their ideas for a survivor bra with Tammy Roberts Myers, vice president of external communications for Limited Brands. The two women were invited to travel to

the company’s Ohio headquarters for further discussion. “If there’s anything I could tell the 118,000 people who’ve signed my Change.org petition right now, it’s that Victoria’s Secret is taking very seriously the comments from survivors and their families and friends who want to see ‘Survivor Bras’ in their stores,” Maiden says. “I know their heart is in the right place and they want to do the right thing.” Maiden embarked on her quest for a survivor line of mastectomy bras after years of watching her mom struggle to find bras that were pretty, affordable, and a comfortable fit. Her mother wears a prosthetic because insurance didn’t cover the cost of breast reconstruction at the time of her mastectomy. “I’m so proud of Allana for starting this campaign,” says Barrett. “It’s been wonderful to see all this support and to have the chance to talk to Victoria’s Secret representatives about how much this amazing decision would mean to survivors of breast cancer.” Interested in viewing live signature totals from Maiden’s campaign? Visit change.org/survivorbras.

Goodbye Interruptions Make PMS A Thing Of The Past

G Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 16

irl power is alive and well, and Mayling Kajiya is proof. She’s the perfect example of what a woman can do when she is determined to solve her own problems. Kajiya was looking for all-natural relief from the PMS symptoms that interrupted her life on a monthly basis. With an extensive background in nutrition,plus a certificate in plant-based nutrition from Cornell University, she was well-equipped to create her own product, which she deemed Girl Uninterrupted®. After realizing how well the product worked for her and her sisters and close girlfriends, Kajiya decided to share her product with other women to help them eliminate monthly PMS-related interruptions. Over-the-counter drugs seek to alleviate PMS symptoms by numbing the body. Girl Uninterrupted® is composed of

an all-natural blend of L-Tryptophan — an essential amino acid — and herbs that have been specifically formulated to directly address common symptoms of PMS. Girl Uninterrupted® is a fresh, all-natural approach to PMS relief, and comes in fun packaging, complete with pink pills. The product is sourced and manufactured within the United States,at an NSF International registered facility,ensuring its safety and quality. The Star Package, available for $10, includes a compact with mirror, one five-pill pack, and an official Girl Uninterrupted® wristband. Additional five-pill refill packs are $5. Visit GirlU.com for information.

Spring Into Home Improvement Paint Like A Pro With These Tips

pring has (almost) sprung, and ‘tis the season for painting projects. Consider the following tips before you embark on any grand, renovation plans: • Emerald green is the Pantone color of the year. That said, any shade of gorgeous green will add a bright, clean feel to your home. • Regardless of the shade, make sure to bring color swatches home from the store and study them in the light of the room you are planning to paint. You’ll be amazed at how different the swatch looks at home, compared to the highpowered artificial light found in most home-improvement stores. • Oops,bought the wrong shade? While many stores will remix colors if you don’t like the shade post-purchase, they don’t usually offer refunds. Before you purchase a gallon, it’s best to buy the

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smallest amount — usually a quart — and paint test a small section before you spend big bucks on a gallon or more. • The higher the gloss, the more washable the paint. High gloss is best for damp or high-traffic areas, such as bathrooms, but beware, it offers more of a sheen than flat or matte paints, which are non-reflective. Looking for the best of both worlds? Go for eggshell, which offers a slight soft gloss, and more stain resistance than flat. • Before you dip your brand-new brush into water-based paint, wet the bristles with water. It will help with cleanup and increase the life of the brush. Note: The chocolate paint brush featured above is best for eating, not painting! Visit Edward Marc Chocolatier at edwardmarc.com for this and other adorable, spring-related pops. [TCW]

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Island Time Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 18

PHOTO COURTESY OF KANDACE HILL

Kandace Hill Follows Her Gypsy Spirit By Melinda Johnston | Photos By Michael C. Hernandez

Many of us seek to follow the wisdom of Henry David Thoreau’s famous quote, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you imagined.” We post his famous words on desks, walls, and even decorative cushions. Kandace Hill takes Thoreau’s advice a giant step further, living the words out in real time. She has dreamed about — and lived — a multitude of careers, from model to business owner to sales and marketing guru. But the most notable job Hill has landed (so far) is that of co-manager of a private island resort in the Bahamas for Princess Cruises.

“Whenever a new opportunity comes along,we both grab the bull by the horns. People often say, ‘Why would you do that?’ Our response is, ‘Why would we not do it?’ We feel that when an opportunity comes along,and it is something we would like to experience, then why not go for it? You only go around once in this life.” She adds, “We have owned businesses in Southport, N.C., bought and renovated an old home in Florida, moved back to South Carolina and bought an old firehouse to renovate and sold it … so our friends call us gypsies. And we like the moniker.”

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Off The Path These days, Hill works in marketing for a local plastic surgeon. But just a few months ago, she was far from the Queen City, living on the tip of the island Eleuthera with her husband, Brian. Together, they hosted up to 3,000 passengers a day,five to six days a week,November through April, in a job for Princess Cruises. Most people would consider it a once-in-alifetime opportunity, or a dream better left unfulfilled. For Kandace and Brian, it was a natural progression. “My husband and I have gypsy spirits,” she says.

“My husband and I have gypsy spirits. Whenever a new opportunity comes along, we both grab the bull by the horns. People often say, ‘Why would you do that?’ Our response is, ‘Why would we not do it?’” — Kandace Hill

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 20

The decision to move to the Bahamas came in part after Hill lost a job in 2010. She was searching for another career when she stumbled upon the job with Princess Cruises. The fact that the job was in the tropics was particularly appealing to her because she was grounded by ice at the time. “We were stuck in an ice storm in Gatlinburg,Tenn.,and I was checking out sales jobs on CareerBuilder. I found one that advertised for a couple. We faxed our résumés to them from the hotel. After several phone interviews, we flew down there, interviewed, and got the job,” Hill says. The two-year assignment as hosts/beach keepers for Princess Cruises began in May 2010. The job provided the husband-and-wife team a house with modern amenities,a car,and their own private beach sunsets each evening. The nearest village was 15 minutes away. Passengers would arrive around 8 a.m., and leave about 4:30 p.m. Food and bar

service were ferried from the ship. The Hills were in charge of managing everything else, including 75 Bahamian employees. Kandace managed the retail shops, water sports rentals,and tours. Brian was responsible for maintenance of the water treatment system, vehicles, boats, bathrooms, 3,000 beach chairs, and anything else that needed attention. During off days and off-season, the couple busied themselves with paperwork and routine maintenance and landscaping. In addition,they enjoyed countless hours of snorkeling, fishing, and lounging on the beach. An Unexpected Bonus The island was rich with experiences. But consumerism was another story — an especially uncommon one for two Americans. Though she managed several touristthemed shops for the cruise line, regular retail shopping on the remote end of the

island was nonexistent. With the nearest grocery store 30 minutes away and stocked sporadically,most of the couple’s food came from the ships. The lack of beauty salons meant husband and wife cut each other’s hair. Even vacations were a bargain,with the Hills enjoying cruises to Canada and Nova Scotia at discounted prices, courtesy of their employer. With so little to spend money on, the Hills’ debt quickly disappeared, and their bank balance grew proportionately. At the end of the two-year stint, Kandace and Brian decided not to renew their contract — but not because the experience wasn’t fulfilling. “It was such a great learning experience, and we met people from all over the world,” Hill says. “Now, we have friends everywhere we go. But you can only swim and snorkel and watch beautiful sunsets for so long. And it was very, very remote. We were lucky that Brian and I are best friends and got along so well.” The couple moved back to Charlotte to

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KANDACE HILL

Though writer Melinda Johnston rarely leaves town, her gypsy spirit is alive and well — her mind is constantly wandering.

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Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

be near family, including Kandace’s grown son, Matt. But Charlotte is merely home base, and only for a while. “Right now, I work in marketing for a local plastic surgeon, and Brian is in real estate. I don’t know what we’ll do next, or where we’ll go, but I do know it will never be above the Mason-Dixon line. I don’t do cold! We will always stay south, and the Florida Keys are our ultimate retirement goal.” Many of Kandace’s friends ask if she’s following a checklist, but she swears that is not the case. “It’s really not a bucket list,” she says. “It’s a way to broaden our experiences and expand our horizons. It’s our way of living life to its fullest.” Ironically, her advice to others who are hesitant to follow their dreams comes from yet another writer,the infamous Mark Twain. The 100-year-old quote is her second favorite. Twain’s quote goes as follows: “Twenty years from now,you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” It’s a motto Hill lives to the fullest. [TCW]

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Shades Of Gray

PHOTO BY JP SOTO PHOTOGRAPHY

Nan Gray Navigates The Seasons Of Her Life By Deb Mitchell | Photos By Glenn Roberson

More likely than not, you’ve heard of Nan Gray. A longtime Charlottean, Gray serves on the boards of several charitable organizations and mentors young women. She works as marketing director with a large Charlotte company. She’s a blogger (Front Seat Life blog), an active church and community service volunteer, and most recently, the director of women’s ministries with the new Upside Down Church in Charlotte. To say that Gray is a dynamic and charming woman with a strong desire to help others is putting it mildly. No one would ever guess from Gray’s warm, lighthearted demeanor that she has weathered unspeakably dark seasons in her lifetime. No longer in the shadows of those painful events, Gray is living life to the fullest, even as she continues to heal. “If you would have told me when I was 19 that one day, I’d be in my 50s, single, with no kids — and happy — I would never have believed it!” she says.

Even so,“By the time I was in high school, I wanted to make good grades so that I could go away to college and escape the verbal abuse.” Attending the University of Kentucky didn’t turn out to be the refuge Gray hoped it would be. Shortly after starting classes, her beloved grandfather passed away. Four months later,Gray was attacked by a serial rapist in her off-campus apartment. “I was asleep,” she says,“and I heard a noise

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Dark Days Born and raised in Paducah, Ky., Gray’s childhood was difficult. Her father struggled with alcoholism and depression,and she was often the target of his verbal abuse. Gray’s grandfather lived two doors down,and she credits him with making her feel loved and well cared for. “He would step in if we ever needed anything, and he saw to it that my brother and I went to church every Sunday,” she says.

“I used to think of the bad things that happened to me as little pieces of fabric: They didn’t match and they were scattered. But then I realized they are pieces of a quilt — they are part of my story.” — Nan Gray

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 24

… and the next thing I knew, I was being raped.” Gray was the man’s eighth victim, and she was wounded both physically and mentally. At 19 years old, she was ill equipped to handle her pain, and she lacked the support system needed to recover. “I just didn’t know how to process what had happened to me,”Gray says. “I felt like maybe I was a bad person, like my father said I was.” Six months later,Gray’s attacker was shot and killed by his ninth victim. When his identity was made known, she says,“I got mad at God all over again, because [the rapist] was a deacon in his church.”

From there, Gray began a downward spiral, drinking heavily and using recreational drugs. Not long afterward, Gray was in attendance at the now-infamous concert of The Who in Cincinnati, where a human stampede killed 11 people. “I personally witnessed three girls lying dead on the floor. It was too much for me. I just thought, ‘Really? Is this how my life is going to unfold — one tragedy after another?’” Giving Up Traumatized and alone, Gray stopped going to work and paying her rent. “The next thing I knew, I’d lost my job and my

apartment,” she says. “I was 19 and living out of the back of a car in a McDonald’s parking lot.” She remained homeless off and on for a year, bouncing from job to job and leaving apartments whenever rent came due. Craving security, Gray jumped at the first opportunity to marry, and soon was in an abusive situation. She divorced,but found herself suffering unknowingly from post traumatic stress disorder. Gray couldn’t help but struggle with daily life and relationships. “In a way,for years afterward I used the tragedies I’d experienced as a platform for bad decisions. I just felt like, ‘Why try? Why bother?’”

Top left, Nan Gray emceed the Ignite Justice conference at Forest Hill Church in January 2013. Above and right, Gray is passionate about serving others, which includes a trip to the Discover School in Burundi, Africa in June 2012, and again this month. made with a missions group from Forest Hill Church in 2012. “My heart grew twice the size it had been once I landed on that soil!” Gray says. “I have a passion for taking care of the marginalized and forgotten in the world — especially women.” Gray believes that finding her purpose has been vital to helping her heal. “I used to think of the bad things that happened to me as little pieces of fabric: They didn’t match and they were scattered. But then I realized they are pieces of a quilt — they are part of my story.” She hopes to share the wisdom she’s gained by enduring tragedy and hardship. She is working on a book with the help of a writer friend, and she dreams of one day being a speaker at retreats and conferences around the world. Gray offers advice for anyone who is hurting. “Happiness is fleeting, but so is tragedy,” she says. “It’s never too late to have the life you dreamed about as a child.” And though she knows all too well that healing is a process, and life can bring dark seasons, Gray stands steadfast. “A few years ago,my grandfather stopped showing up in my dreams,” she says. “And that’s how I know I’m getting better.” [TCW]

Deb Mitchell is a freelance writer and mother of three who resides in Huntersville.

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Today, Gray mentors young adults, and is building the women’s ministry within the Upside Down Church. She recently emceed a conference at Forest Hill Church,and on March 8 she is traveling to Burundi, Africa — a trip she previously

PHOTOS BY STEVEN KASAY

Seasons Of Change For years afterward,therapy became an integral part of Gray’s life. She learned to forgive those who had hurt her,and to love and forgive herself for her own mistakes. “Therapy helped me put everything that had happened to me in its place,and gave me skills I needed for living a normal life,” she says. Throughout those years,Gray’s grandfather often appeared in her dreams, comforting her with his presence and encouraging her to keep going. Four years ago,Gray accepted a friend’s invitation to attend a service at Forest Hill Church. While there,she found the roots of faith her grandfather had planted within her. “I felt like my grandfather and God were hugging me and saying,‘Welcome home.’ That’s when everything changed for me,” she says. Gray continued to embark down a path toward healing. She built a support network of women friends. (“We all need those 3 or 4 friends who know the ugly truth about us but who love us anyway!” she says.) Gray also realized the important role serving others plays in the healing process. “We get the biggest blessing when we serve others,” she says.

PHOTO BY JP SOTO PHOTOGRAPHY

Eventually, things began to look up. Gray married again, bought a house, and settled into steady employment, even spending six years as a successful stand-up comic withThe Comedy Zone. “From the outside looking in,people probably thought I was happy,” she says. “I worked really hard to be a professional businesswoman. I thought if anyone knew my real story, they wouldn’t love me.” Then, in 1994, Gray’s life turned upside down yet again. “My husband came home one day and told me he didn’t love me anymore,that he loved someone else. He packed a bag and he left,” she says. “I decided I was tired of being in pain. That night,I truly took every pill that was in my house. I didn’t want to die — I just didn’t want to live.” Gray survived the suicide attempt and confided in her boss — who helped get her into therapy the next day.

WineUp

Oh, Austria

Some Of The Best Wines You’ve Never Heard Of By Trevor Burton

love it when I discover a great wine at a great value. One of my latest discoveries? Red wines from Austria. It’s almost impossible to talk about Austrian wine without putting it in the context of a huge scandal that happened back in 1985. Have you heard this story? To meet volume commitments made to their distributors, a group of Austrian geniuses decided to doctor their product to make it taste more like a late harvest wine. They added something to emulate the sweetness and texture that comes along with that kind of wine — a batch of diethelyne glycol. Which, in case you don’t know, is an ingredient found in antifreeze! The scheme was quickly uncovered. Some of the guilty ones paid heavy fines, others went to jail. But the true victim was the entire Austrian wine industry. Whole batches of wine, tainted or not, were destroyed, and wine exports dropped to essentially zero. A disaster for sure. But,goody for us,a phoenix rose out of these ashes.

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 26

A Quality Act Austrian winemakers did two things. They focused heavily on wine quality, and they put an emphasis on dry rather than sweet wines. And, of course, basic economics came into play … Austrian wines commanded much lower prices. The ripples from this quarter-century old “big bang” have essentially faded out today, but Austrian wines remain a great value. They are a terrific way to expand your palate, and still make your taste buds happy. Today, Austrian wine quality is tightly controlled. Wines undergo two rigorous inspections. First, there’s a chemical analysis, then there’s a state-controlled tasting commission. Wines that pass these tests get to carry a red and white capsule on the top of the bottle (the colors of the nation’s flag). Apart from an indication of quality,the capsule is a simple way to recognize an Austrian wine.

Seeing Red The bulk of Austrian production is white wine. But it really pays to search out the red guys. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a couple that are not too difficult to find, and they have a distinctive character that is purely Austrian. Since almost three-quarters of Austriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s total wine production is consumed domestically, not a great deal of red wine finds its way to our shores. That said, they are more than worth a little effort. These wines definitely fall into the category of â&#x20AC;&#x153;some of the best red wines youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never heard of.â&#x20AC;? If your wine merchant doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have any on the shelf, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no doubt he or she could order you some with no trouble. When I asked my local wine merchant about Austrian reds, I walked out of the store with two very nice wines under my arm. By far, your best bet is a wine called Zweigelt (TSVAYE-gelt). These wines have been compared to spicy Pinot Noirs and CĂ´tes-du-RhĂ´nes from France. Nice company to be in! But, really, these wines are not â&#x20AC;&#x153;likeâ&#x20AC;? anything. They have their own, unique character. The first thing you notice is the color â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a deep, almost inky purple. You expect

an intense, powerful wine, but youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in for a pleasant surprise. Zweigelt wines are rich and smooth. They have soft and subtle tannins. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lots of fruit â&#x20AC;&#x201D; ripe cherries, raspberries, and other red fruit. Then, of course, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that spicy, peppery side. Add to all of that a pleasant floral element, and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re into a very enjoyable wine that is perfect for warmweather drinking. They are especially pleasant when slightly chilled. The second Austrian grape sows a little confusion. BlaufrĂ¤nkisch (Bloue-FRANNkeesh) vines have been exported from Austria to many parts of the world, including Germany and the United States. In those two countries, the grape goes by the name Lemberger. Washington State has significant plantings in the Yakima Valley. In contrast to Zweigelt, BlaufrĂ¤nkisch is a late-ripening grape. Late ripening allows grapes to develop more depth and tannins. This is a much deeper wine than Zweigelt. The fruit flavors are darker and the tannins are more pronounced. Younger wines are extremely fruity but mellow out with age, becoming velvety, supple,and complex. This wine pairs well

with a grilled pork chop or a pasta dish with a marinara sauce. In 2001, Austria introduced a classification system known as DAC â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Districtus Austriae Controllatus â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that designates special growing areas in Austria, and lists the grapes that do especially well. When youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the hunt for Austrian wines, check the labels to see if a DAC is on there to be sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best quality. Each Sunday evening,my wife and I get together with a group of friends at our local tavern for conversation and sipping. I recently brought along a couple of these wines to share with the group. The first reaction was surprise; they thought that Austria produced only white wines. Then came the tasting; our table became very quiet. This was truly a â&#x20AC;&#x153;wowâ&#x20AC;? moment. So, branch out and take the road less traveled by searching out some Austrian red wines. Your taste buds will love you for it. [TCW] Certified by the International Sommelier Guild, Trevor Burton relishes the chance to discover a new wine.

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Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

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No Place Like … Rug & Home, Where Selection & Customer Service Are Key By Melinda Johnston

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 28

Above, Rug & Home founders Dolly and Rakesh Agarwal, with their daughter, Aanchal Gupta. The company has locations in Kannapolis, Asheville, and Gaffney. Visit rugandhome.com. To hear experiences from real customers, scan the following QR code or visit http://www.youtube.com/user/ rugandhome/featured.

he perfect rug can transform a room, and Rug & Home has thousands from which to choose. The awardwinning, family owned store also offers one-of-a-kind and brand-name furniture to complete your room transformation. “Coming to Rug & Home is truly like taking a trip around the globe and delving into a treasure trove of unique finds,” says Rug & Home’s Aanchal Gupta. “We have antique doors that were salvaged from ancient havelis and mansions of India. We have rugs from Persia, Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, Belgium, India, and China. We offer one-of-a-kind furniture crafted with the highest-quality solid wood utilizing a craftsmanship that is rarely found anymore.” In addition to rare and signature pieces, the store features some of the finest quality and top name brands in home furnishings and rugs. Featured furniture lines include Theodore Alexander,Maitland-Smith,Bernhardt, Hooker Furniture, Universal Furniture, Paula Deen,Pennsylvania House, Bradington-Young, and many more. Noted rug brands include Karastan, Nourison, Surya, Oriental Weavers, Momeni, KAS Rugs, among others. Customer service is top on Rug & Home’s list. The company’s

consultants are highly trained and eager to help you choose the perfect rug, whether you are an experienced decorator or just starting to learn your way around colors and placement. “All you need are your room dimensions and an idea of the size of rug you are looking for,” Gupta says. “Knowing the colors of the walls,furniture, and any accent pieces will also be helpful. Rug & Home design consultants will give you a quick primer on rug selection, then guide you to the quality and price of rugs you are comfortable with and help you select the ‘perfect’ rug to coordinate beautifully with the other items in your room.” She adds, “We then encourage you to take your rug home and see it in your room. You can try it for seven days, and return it if it doesn’t work — no questions asked!” Rug & Home features almost 180,000 square feet of combined showroom space across three locations, so you are sure to find what you’re looking for. And since Rug & Home directly imports rugs and home furnishings that are hand-selected by the owners/buyers, they are able to offer prices lower than the competition. This process also allows them to bring trends to the marketplace before anyone else. [TCW]

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This annual fa This favorite vorite features features a diverse d diverse panel of business experts. experts. Choose thr three ee of yyour our fa favorites vorites fr from f om these roundtable roundtable pr esentations/discussions: presentations/discussions: »C Credit redit ffor or the Small Biz ~ W Wells ells FFargo a go ar » PPayroll ayyroll SServices ervices ffor or the Small Biz ~ W Wells ells Fargo Fargo » LLead ead Generation Generation ~ Char lotte Business iness Journal Journal Charlotte » Emplo yee vvss Independent Independent Contractor Contrac a tor ~ TThe he Emplo yers A ssociation Employee Employers Association IT:: Hardware Have’s” » IT Hardware and SSoftware offtware ““Must Must Ha ve’s” » iÛiÀ>} } Þ ÕÀ 7 "É/ 7 7 *>ÀÌ iÀÃ « / `>Þ¿Ã / `>Þ¿Ã >À ÌÌi 7 > 7 > JOIN US NEXT MONTH May 17, 2013, 11:30am-3pm 3pm LLog og on tto o NA NAWBOCharlotte.org WBOCharlotte.org ffor or deta details ails National Association National Women Business O wnerss, Char lotte Chapt err, is a Association of Women Owners, Charlotte Chapter, pr ofessional or ganization specifically desig ned tto o fuel the success success of professional organization designed the 42,000 w omen-owned businesses in the g reater Char lotte ar ea. women-owned greater Charlotte area.

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Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 29

AtHome

Open Sea

PHOTOS COURTESY OF METRO GREENSCAPE

Welcome Spring With Home & Garden Projects That Sing

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

son

By Dawn Brookgreen

here’s just something about the change in seasons from winter to spring that motivates homeowners in the Carolinas to embark on home-improvement projects, indoors and out. Out with the old, in with the new … it seems to be in the very air. With warmer temperatures in the forecast, Hearth and Patio’s Cindy Marze says it’s easy to shake up your living space … just open the door. “More and more of our customers are adding porches, covering their decks, and creating outdoor spaces where they can relax and entertain,” Marze says. “They are installing fire pits,new grills,outdoor kitchens,and even large-screenTVs to watch the ballgame or race under the stars.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RUG & HOME

AtHome

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 32

To furnish your new outdoor digs, she recommends choosing neutral-colored furniture and cushions that will stay in vogue for the long haul. To add spice, mix in throw pillows, rugs, and other accessories that reflect current or seasonal trends. Regardless of style, Marze says to make comfort your top priority. “You’ll be spending a lot of time in your new ‘outside room,’ so make sure you choose the furnishings wisely,” she says. “Furniture fits people differently, so it’s important to try it out. For example, if you are short, you’ll want to stay away from high-backed overstuffed pieces, or your feet won’t even touch the floor. We suggest you come in the store and sit — or even stretch out — on each piece until you find the perfect fit.” Rug & Home’s Aanchal Gupta agrees that home owners should consider bringing the comforts of indoors outside. “The best way to enjoy the lovely spring weather is outside on your porch, patio, deck, or lawn,” Gupta says. “In order to really create an oasis and make your outdoor space as comfortable as your indoor space, the best thing you can do is add a colorful and cheery outdoor rug. A rug immediately brings warmth, style, and softness to the elements of nature.” Gupta says there is a huge depth and breadth in selection of indoor/outdoor rugs. Color choices range from bright to subtle and subdued, and styles similarly offer lots of variation, from traditional designs to florals, solids, stripes, and contemporary patterns. “You can easily find one that fits your design aesthetic that will completely transform and brighten your outdoor living or dining area,” Gupta says. The perfect bold, fresh color for spring — emerald green — happens to be Pantone’s 2013 Color of the Year. Gupta says it’s a great color to incorporate into your

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEARTH AND PATIO

design efforts this year, indoors or out. “Emerald is an old-world glam color,” she says. “The jewel tone is bold, yet sophisticated. Bring this color — or shades of green — into your home,starting with just one piece, such as a rug, a small

furniture accent, artwork, or pillows. Then add more if you like the shade.” She suggests balancing the strong hue with warm wood finishes, like cherry or antiqued silver or gold. “All shades of green are on-trend right now,” Gupta says, “and invoke a sense of springtime and the grassy outdoors.” Whether indoors or out, David Mostafaloo, of Unique Oriental Rugs in Hickory, says the right rug in your

favorite colors can bring happiness to any home. “A carefully chosen rug can tie together walls, furniture, and accessories and complete the look of your room,”he says. “I ask my clients to think about the colors they like best and choose a rug with those colors. Every time you see it, it will make you happy and motivated.” Rugs can make a room, and are available in all shapes and sizes, with prices just as varied. Mostafaloo says rugs featuring soft muted colors with an antique wash are especially popular right now. However, he notes that a rug should be considered an investment;he encourages clients to choose one that feels and looks right for them. “A good rug will be around for a long time — and may even be passed down from generation to generation!” he says. Window Dressing Kristie Knorr, with Impact Design Resources,says anyone looking to spruce up the exterior of the home should consider the addition of shutters. “I see so many homes in need of new

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Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Unique

PHOTOS COURTESY OF IMPACT DESIGN RESOURCES Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 34

shutters,” she says. “It is a turnkey project that gives quite a big improvement for money spent. It’s kind of like paint … it can really change the whole look.” Impact Design Resources offers affordable, custom-made exterior shutters that are locally crafted. “We think of exterior shutters like jewelry for your home,” Knorr says. “When getting dressed, you like to have the right jewelry for your outfit. The same is true of homes.” Knorr says a premium western red cedar shutter that fits the window adds presence and is surprisingly easy on the purse strings. Looking for a simple way to add intriguing details indoors? She suggests installing wainscot paneling to foyers and hallways. “Wainscot paneling adds simple details and it is a project that can be done in a day or two,” she says. “It adds value without disrupting your family.” Garden Spot Metro GreenScape is passionate about landscape design and outdoor living. Owned by husband and wife team Darin and Heather Brockelbank, the company creates outdoor living spaces that naturally increase the property value of a home and add to a family’s overall enjoyment. “A beautiful yard is like the icing on the cake for any property,” Darin Brockelbank says. “The key to having a gorgeous landscape is understanding that it doesn’t happen overnight.” Brockelbank has found that women tend to have a strong eye for detail. “Our female clients love tone, texture, and creating something that they can see the whole family enjoying together. They like the details of how it comes together. Men only like the big grill, the TV, or to talk about money!” he laughs. Planning is key when it comes to landscape design. Brockelbank says it’s important to keep in mind that the homeowner may not want to spend numerous hours in the garden working to maintain its beauty. “You can install the prettiest shrubs in the world, but without someone willing to maintain the bushes properly, the landscaping can look messy in a relatively short amount of time,” he says. He notes that it pays to have an expert’s opinion when planning your landscape. “Plants have to meet shade and sun requirements, as well as thrive with existing structures that are already in place,”he says.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF METRO GREENSCAPE

“Oftentimes, these types of restraints severely limit what types of plants can be used in your landscape. This process, which could take years on your own, typically takes a month to go through with a professional’s help.” He notes that the outside of your home is the first thing people see, and it’s the largest decorative portion of your home. “Why not decorate this area with as much care as you do the interior of your home?” he asks. “With a well-designed landscape and outdoor living area, you can happily spend hours with friends and family creating memories that you otherwise wouldn’t have had sitting in front of the TV.” [TCW]

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Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

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Floral Styles Tease & Tempt

t’s March, and the lion is in full roar. The trees may be budding and the bulbs might be waving in the wind … but the temperature is still in a fullswing temper tantrum. Don’t let all of that fluctuation leave you guessing, wardrobe-wise. Spring may not be officially in, but you can flirt with florals until warmer days are a reality.

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 36

Night Sky floral print blouse, $78; compact double-weave slim pants, $88. Ann Taylor & Anntaylor.com

By Dana Durham

Shanna floral print ballet flat, $68. Ann Taylor & Anntaylor.com

Adelia tote in the GillyFlower collection, $240. Brighton & Brighton.com

Leather black and white pump, $325. Alice+Olivia • Nordstrom & Nordstrom.com

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Combo moto-jacket with cotton body and polyester sleeves, in cream/Victorian rose print, $88. Mural • Nordstrom & Nordstrom.com

Kaleidoscope sheath dress, $128. Ann Taylor & Anntaylor.com

Floral scarf, $58. Ann Taylor & Anntaylor.com

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 38

Top left, floral printed knit T-shirt, $44; stretch crepe cropped jacket, $128; pants unavailable. Ann Taylor & Anntaylor.com Top right, quilted floral jacket, $140; quilted floral skirt, $80. Topshop • Nordstrom & Nordstrom.com

Bottom left, floral printed blazer, $98. Mural • Belk & Belk.com Bottom right, Batik floral print cardigan, $78; Batik floral print skirt, $88. Ann Taylor & Anntaylor.com

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Left, jacket, $99; blouse, $59; skirt, $59. Alfani • Macy’s & Macys.com

Moonlight sheath dress, $128; pink afternoon topper, $198. Ann Taylor & Anntaylor.com

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 40

Jacket, $99; dress, $99. Charter Club • Macy’s & Macys.com [TCW]

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704.845.5466 Promenade on Providence, Beside Ann Taylor Loft 5341 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy Charlotte, NC 28277

The Mole Hole Colony Place, 7741 Colony Road • Charlotte, NC 28226

704-543-9969 • Find us on facebook!

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Handbags • Accessories Jewelry • Scarves

Spring Is Ivanka Trump eau de parfum, $78. Macy’s

House of Houbigant Orangers en Fleurs eau de parfum, $180. Neiman Marcus

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 42

Daisies & Dukes body spray, in Farmer’s Daughter, $12. Daisiesanddukes.com

In The Air

By Dana Durham

Oh, Wait … That’s My Perfume Spring is the time of year when the air is redolent with the smell of newly warmed earth and fragrant flowers dancing in the breeze. Don’t let Mother Nature get one up on you this March! There are plenty of fragrance options that will leave you smelling like a rose, whether you choose traditional perfumes, scented lotions, or fragrant body washes.

Clive Christian V perfume, $405. Neiman Marcus & neimanmarcus.com

Coach Love eau de parfum spray, $52. Nordstrom & Nordstrom.com

Agent Provocateur Pétale Noir eau de parfum, $87. Nordstrom & Nordstrom.com

Philosophy Field of Flowers body lotion, in Violet Blossom, $24. Beauty Brands & beautybrands.com

Issey Miyake Pleats Please eau de toilette, $66. Nordstrom & Nordstrom.com

AskTheExpert

Straighten Teeth In Weeks, Not Years Dr. Ross W. Nash

teeth of crowded t Close up view en before treatm

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.

his young woman wanted straighter teeth, but did not want to wear fixed braces. With a simple appliance called the Inman Aligner, some teeth can be aligned in only a number of weeks, not years. She chose this economical and relatively quick process and achieved a gorgeous smile in a very short time.

The Inman A ligner in plac e

Q: What is the Inman Aligner? A: The Inman Aligner is an innovative appliance somewhat like a retainer that incorporates springs which apply light force to the teeth allowing them to be repositioned in the bone. Q: Can the Inman Aligner be removed while eating? A: It can be removed at any time and for any reason. Q: How long should it be worn? A: The aligner should be worn 16 to 20 hours a day until the teeth are straight.

Close up view 9 weeks later

Q: Can the Inman Aligner be used instead of braces? A: This appliance is not for all situations, but many people can benefit from this fast and economical treatment.

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 44

403 Gilead Road, Suite E • Huntersville 704/895-7660 CosmeticDentistryofthe Carolinas.com

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A Thing Of Beauty Elegance and charm is yours with custom designer created silk florals. Providing beautiful home décor at reasonable prices. Casual Elegance Blakeney Shopping Center • 9852- E Rea Road • Charlotte, NC 704.544.5670

Leah & Co. Boutique

Promenade on Providence • Beside Ann Taylor Loft 5341 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. • Charlotte, NC • 704.845.5466

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Embrace The Positive Find out why celebrities and major fashion magazine editors adore the concept and design of these Alex and Ani, LLC’s eco-friendly, positive energy jewelry. Adorn the body, enlighten the mind, and empower the spirit.

It’s All

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

About Renewal By Dana Durham

How Charlotte Women Push The Reset Button For Spring renewal

v. |riˈn(y)oōəl| To make new or fresh again To reestablish; revive To resume To put in a fresh supply of

Charlotte women aren’t strangers to the winter doldrums … most of us have devised our own unique ways to see ourselves through the seasons. Here, a handful of Charlotteans share their renewal strategies for spring. >

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

et’s admit it … we are all in need of renewal from time to time. But this achy desire to renew all that is good in our lives is never stronger than during that small sliver of space and time right before spring hits.

Q: How do you like to renew each spring?

Tia Bullett Flight attendant and owner of TMB Marketing

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 48

Tia Bullett “sprung” into the world the day after the season began (she was born March 22). Likewise, spring is her favorite time of year. Knowing how important it is to recharge in order to stay fresh as the seasons change, Bullett makes an effort to rejuvenate each year. “My rejuvenating tip, especially for the 40 and older beauties, is fresh air!” Bullett says. “After being cooped up in the house all winter, I look forward to the change of weather. The fresh, warm air allows my face to breathe. I like to take in all of what nature has to offer at that time, so after a little moisturizing (and maybe sunscreen), I recommend hitting the outdoors and smelling the flowers! The air will do you good … and nature will do the rest.”

Heather Cox Charlotte native and mother of three boys For Heather Cox, periodic trips to Disney World with the whole family in tow have become family tradition. Early this spring, a trip to Disney served as the perfect way to push the reset button after winter. The whole clan — including her parents, her older brother and his family, and her younger sister and family (and a whopping seven children!) — went to Orlando for a week of fun in the sun. As evident from above, the grownups often wind up having more fun than the kids!

Licensed optician and USAT certified triathlon coach Karen Robinson,of Troutman,N.C.,is a licensed optician, and the mother of three. She recently traveled to Panama for the half Ironman competition, which is made up of an astonishing 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride, and 13.1-mile run. In Panama, Robinson, 51, earned second place in her age group … and with a broken bike, at that! Robinson’s time qualified her for the World Championship race in Las Vegas, which was a goal of hers for 2013. “It was a lofty goal,” she admits, “as there is generally only one spot in my age group. I am so unbelievably happy that I earned that spot so early in the season. I have a few more events on the schedule, but now my focus will be the Ironman World Championship 70.3, in Las Vegas, on Sept. 8, 2013!” Robinson has been competing in long distance triathlons (half and full Ironman) for 10 years. “For me,spring equals a renewed focus on training,” she says. “The beginning of a new ‘tri’ season sig-

nals the start of structured workouts that lead up to key races that I registered for months before the end of the prior season.” Robinson says all of the hard work culminates in an amazing feeling of satisfaction after finishing a race. “As I charge toward the finish line, a feeling of sheer elation comes over me,” she says. “My feet don’t feel the ground and all the pain from the day washes away. I feel a sense of pure accomplishment. I feel strong and capable of doing anything I put my heart into!” [TCW]

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

Above, Cox (from right) pretends to hold up Spaceship Earth in Epcot, along with help from sister Ashley Maness, mother Debbie Price, and sister-in-law Danielle Price. “As a mother, nothing makes me happier than seeing my boys have a great time,”Cox says. “That’s why we escape to Disney World as much as we can. Not only do they have a great time, but it brings me back to my youth. It truly is the happiest place on earth!”

Karen Robinson

HealthFlash W H A T

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T O K N O W T O S T A Y COMPILED BY DANA DURHAM

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Gum Control How Healthy Is Your Mouth?

t’s a startling fact: Nearly half of Americans aged 30 and older have gum disease. Gum disease, officially called periodontitis, is an infection of the gums and a major cause of tooth loss in adults. A study published in the Journal of Dental Research analyzed data from a study on more than 3,700 adults aged 30 and older, and found that approximately 47 percent had periodontitis. Nine percent of those had mild gum disease; 30 percent were suffering with a moderate form of the disease; and 8.5 percent were severely affected. The numbers above translate into nearly 65 million adults in the United States having gum disease. Worried about periodontitis? Although the disease is usually painless, the American Dental Association notes that warning signs include gums that bleed easily or are red, swollen, and tender. Other signs are gums that have pulled away from the teeth, or chronic bad breath or bad taste. If you are noticing any of these signs, a visit to your dentist is imperative.

Bedside Manner Is A Bonus Patients With Caring Doctors Are Healthier

H Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 50

aving a good bedside manner isn’t bogus. A study published in Academic Medicine found that patients who have caring,empathetic doctors enjoy better outcomes and fewer complications. The study was led by researchers from Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, and the Local Health Authority in Parma, Italy. It examined the association between clinical outcomes for nearly 21,000 people with diabetes and the level of empathy of 242 doctors in Italy. Researchers defined doctors’ empathy using the Jefferson Scale of Empathy, which defines empathy as an intention to help, and an understanding of a patient’s concerns, pain, and suffering. Researchers relied on a test of average

blood sugar (the hemoglobin A1c test) and the participants’ cholesterol levels to determine the impact empathy had on a patient’s treatment outcomes. A direct correlation was discovered between higher physician empathy scores and better test results. The study authors also noted that physicians with higher empathy scores had a lower rate of patients with serious complications. “This new,large-scale research study has confirmed that empathic physician-patient relationships is an important factor in positive outcomes,” says Dr. Mohammadreza Hojat,research professor in the department of psychiatry and human behavior at Jefferson Medical College.

Alcohol + Diet Sodas Equals More Potent Cocktails

iet drinks may not be the best cocktail mixers. Researchers studied alcoholic drinks mixed with a variety of beverages — from juice and soda to diet soda — and found that mixing alcohol with diet drinks intensifies the effects of the booze. Diet soda may even increase breath alcohol content more than cocktails made with higher calorie beverages. “People tend to think that cutting calories is important, but when you’re drinking alcohol,calories help slow down the release of alcohol to your liver and brain,” says Cecile Marczinski, an assistant professor in the department of psychological science at Northern Kentucky University in Highland Heights. The study was published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research. Police measure breath alcohol concentration to determine if someone has consumed more than the legal limit of

alcohol. Breath alcohol content is affected by different factors. For instance, food in the stomach can lower breath alcohol concentration by up to 57 percent, compared to drinking on an empty stomach. The study included eight males and eight females, who attending three study sessions and consumed a variety of different drinks. When alcohol was mixed with regular soda containing sugar, the peak breath alcohol level was just under the legal limit, at 0.077. But for diet soda drinkers, the peak was 0.091, which is above the legal limit for driving a car. Breath alcohol levels remained higher for the diet soda/ alcohol drinkers for the entire three-hour period. Dr.Marczinski suspects the alcohol was released from the stomach faster in the diet-drink group because of the lack of sugar and calories in the stomach to slow down the delivery.

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The Best Kind Of News Cancer Death Rates Are Falling t may seem like every family you know has had a recent bout with cancer. The good news is that deaths from cancer continue to drop for American men and women from most racial and ethnic groups. A new report shows there have been significant declines in the death rates for lung, colorectal, breast, prostate, and other forms of cancer. “This is good news,” says Dr. Edgar Simard, a senior epidemiologist in the surveillance research program at the American Cancer Society. “The progress we are making in the fight against cancer is largely driven by the most common cancers in America.” The drop in deaths from lung cancer was two-part: Fewer people are smoking, and patients are receiving better treatment. For colorectal and breast cancers, the decline in deaths resulted from improved screening and treatment. Cancer death rates began to drop in the 1990s. From 2000 through 2009, cancer deaths dropped 1.4 percent per year among women,and 1.8 percent per year among men. Deaths among children dropped by 1.8 percent per year. All was not positive. Death rates were up for certain types of cancer, including uterine, liver, and pancreatic cancer. Among men,death rates from melanoma skin cancer are on the rise. Dr. Simard says he expects progress to continue. “The future is bright as long as we continue to apply what we know about cancer prevention, control, and treatment.” The annual report was produced by researchers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Cancer Society,the U.S.National Cancer Institute,and the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries.

CANCER

From 2000 through 2009, cancer deaths dropped 1.4 percent per year among women, and 1.8 percent per year among men. Deaths among children dropped by 1.8 percent per year.

Understanding IBD The Genetics Of The Disease

nflammatory bowel disease comprises a group of chronic, autoimmune digestive disorders that affect 2.5 million people worldwide. Recent research into the genetics of inflammatory bowel disease, which includes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, offers new insights into the origin of these puzzling conditions. IBD symptoms include abdominal pain and diarrhea, and patients typically require lifelong treatment with drug therapy. Many require surgery to repair tissue damage caused by the disease. Researchers analyzed data from about 34,000 people who took part in 15 previous Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis studies. Scientists also examined data from genome-wide scans of more than 41,000 DNA samples from Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis patients collected around the world. Researchers linked genetic variations in 163 regions of the human genome with a heightened risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease. The study confirmed that 92 regions of the human genome identified in previous studies are associated with a significant risk for the two illnesses, and also linked 71 new regions to IBD. According to researchers, the regions pinpointed overlap regions linked with other autoimmune diseases. The findings

suggest that IBD results from overactive immune defense systems that evolved to combat serious bacterial infections. “Until this point, we have been studying the two main forms of IBD — Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis — separately,” says co-lead author Judy Cho, professor of gastroenterology and genetics at Yale School of Medicine. “We created this study based on what seems to be a vast amount of genetic overlap between the two disorders.” Researchers discovered“a genetic balancing act between [the immune system] defending against bacterial infection and attacking the body’s own cells,” says co-lead author Jeffrey Barrett, of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute in Cambridge, England. [TCW]

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 53

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HAPPENINGS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS

The Art Of Food Friends Of The Mint on’t miss a mouthwatering discussion by Timothy Cameron, associate professor of Johnson & Wales University’s College of Culinary Arts March 15, at The Mint Museum Uptown. Dr. Cameron’s lecture on “The Culinary Art” begins at noon; refreshments are served at 11:30 a.m.

March Forth, Hopefully Celebration Of Hope Masquerade Gala he March Forth with Hope Foundation’s premier annual fundraiser,the Celebration of Hope Masquerade Gala,will be held on Sat., March 9 at the Ballantyne Hotel & Lodge. The March Forth with Hope Foundation was established by Stuart and Shelby Stout in memory of their daughter Hope, who died of cancer at age 12. The courage Hope showed throughout her life,and the compassion she showed to others until her death sparked an outpouring of support from the Charlotte community. When given the opportunity to have almost any wish fulfilled by the Make-A-Wish Foundation,Hope’s wish was that the other 155 Wish kids in the Charlotte area would be granted their wishes; the legacy of her wish continues today. All money raised helps provide financial assistance to families battling cancer or other life-threatening diseases. To date, the Foundation has given $500,000 to families to allow them to support and care for their loved ones without the stress of financial burdens.

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013 54

WantToGo? Visit MarchForthWithHope.com.

WantToGo? The Mint Museum Uptown is located at 500 S.Tryon St. Call 704/337-2000.

PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS

For The Witch In All Of Us Wicked Returns To Charlotte ong before Dorothy arrives in Munchkinland,two girls meet in the land of Oz. One is born with emerald green skin, and is smart, fiery, and misunderstood. The other girl is beautiful, ambitious, and popular. The ever-popular Broadway musical “Wicked”— back in Charlotte by popular demand — gives the back story on how these two girls grow up to become the

Wicked Witch of the West, and Glinda the Good. Don’t miss the award-winning musical “Wicked” March 13 through 31 at Ovens Auditorium. WantToGo? Ovens Auditorium is located at 2700 E. Independence Blvd. Visit blumenthalarts.org.

Don’t Be Scared It’s Only Virginia

with a stunning revelation that has shocked audiences for years. Recognized for its razor-sharp dialogue, the play was described by “Newsweek” as “a brilliantly original work of art.” WantToGo? Visit theatrecharlotte.org or call 704/372-1000. [TCW]

Today’s Charlotte Woman | March 2013

heatre Charlotte is offering the dark comedy “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf” March 22 through April 7, at Theatre Charlotte, located at 501 Queens Road. Edward Albee’s famous Broadway play portrays husband and wife George and Martha in a night of dangerous fun and games that wraps up

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Read On The Old-Fashioned Way

By Allison Futterman

arch 1 is officially Read Across America Day. In addition to encouraging reading around the country, the day pays homage to the one and only Dr. Seuss. For me, every day is reading day. But the celebration of the official day of reading got me thinking about the state of my favorite pastime today. These days, kids (and adults) are much more likely to be reading from some type of electronic device than an actual book. While technology has undoubtedly provided many important advances,when it comes to reading,I’m not so sure that newer is always better. I am not a technophobe. I can appreciate the usefulness that technology provides. A device like a Nook or Kindle can be a traveler’s best friend, conveniently taking the place of heavy books in your carry-on bag. Who doesn’t love something that leaves room for more shoes? However,aside from a situation where it doesn’t make sense to tote around a lot of books, I am staunchly in favor of the real deal. There is something uniquely rewarding about reading a real book … holding it, turning the pages, folding the corner of its pages. It is both a tactile and visceral experience that no other platform can provide.

There is an excitement that comes along with getting a new book. When I order books from Amazon, I eagerly await their arrival. When they arrive,I enjoy feeling the weight of the package, knowing there is a whole new world within those pages, just waiting for me to explore. Similarly, I love the drive home from the bookstore after picking out a new book. I just don’t think waiting for a book to download on an electronic device creates the same sense of anticipation. People who love to read usually take great pleasure in recommending and/or lending a good book to others. To that end, when I have collected too many books to keep, I donate them. I love knowing that other people will be able to meet the same interesting characters, be transported to foreign lands, get caught up in a great plot, or learn about a different culture. I value that connection. My favorite books are dog-eared, have notes written in the margins,and sometimes even contain food smudges. There are memories attached to the very pages. I can glance at the titles on my bookshelf, and be transported back to a certain time and place. Technology is rapidly changing and evolving. I get that this makes our lives easier on many levels. Still, there is something comforting in certain things remaining the same. When I think of Dr. Seuss and his famous books, such as “The Cat in the Hat”or “Green Eggs and Ham,” I can only imagine that these legendary works were meant to be read in the form in which they were created. The characters and the illustrations come to life on the printed page in a way that can’t be replicated electronically. And that’s why this March (and every month thereafter), I will be turning the pages of real books every chance I get. [TCW]

Allison Futterman is a freelance writer who is always looking forward to her next page-turner. Literally.

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