october 2009 Complimentary
Altering Lives
Breast Cancer Redefines Relationships
Illuminating Beauty Candles To Light The Way
Our Cup Of Tea
Sipping Your Way Through The City
Hats Off To You
Stylish And Comfortable Toppers
Women Supporting Women Friends, Colleagues, Mentors
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jeffcooperdesigns.com ©jeff cooper 2008
Platinum Makes It Perfect
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Actual Unretouched Photos of Dr. Freeman’s Patient
Today's Char Woman - Oct 09
Actual Unretouched Photos of Dr. Freeman’s Patient
Imagine looking forward to holiday photos. This year, celebrate the holidays with a picture perfect appearance. Dr. Sean Freeman can make your holiday wishes come true with easy, non-surgical procedures to freshen up your look in as little as an hour. All it takes is one phone call to Dr. Freeman to make your holiday wishes come true! Before
SURGICAL PROCEDURES: SignatureLift, Facelifts, Rhinoplasty, Lip Augmentations, Cheek/Chin Implants, Upper/Lower Eye Lids, Endoscopic Browlift NON-SURGICAL PROCEDURES: Radiesse, Restylane®, Botox®, Vitalize Chemical Peels, Laser Hair Removal, Skinmedica, Biomedic & PCA Products, Laser Skin Treatments, Facials
After
704.543.1110 www.onlyfaces.com M. Sean Freeman, M.D.
Specializing in Facial Plastic Surgery Since 1988 Double-Board Certified, Fellowship Trained
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Contents October 2009
55
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58 Departments 12 From The Publisher
Accepting Help With Love
14 Girl Time
Tips, Trends, And Fancies
20 Queen City Jewels
Happenings You Don’t Want To Miss
26 On The Move
Charlotte Women Making Strides
27 Work Notes
Tickling Your Workday Funny Bone
36 Money Talks
It Pays To Think Pink
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66 52 Fashion Hats Off (Or, On!) 55 Beauty Light The Way To Relaxation 58 At Home Home Is Where The Cure Is
64 Health Matters Lean On Me For Emotional Health
66 Health Flash
What You Need To Know To Stay Well
74 Tomorrow’s Charlotte Woman
Charlotte’s Future Fabulous Females
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Charlotte Woman Today’s
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Business/Lifestyle
Volume XIII, Number 6 October 2009 PUBLISHER
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Belva Greenage ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Fern Howerin Editor
Michelle Young Hubacher Assistant Editor
Karsen Price ART DIRECTor
Anita O’Hara SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Carrie Boyd Sales Director
Kristen Dibble Sales Executive
Barbara Herd Business Manager
Nikki Wilson WEb Designer
Cliff McNamara Contributing Editor
Leigh Barrett CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jennifer Bradford-Epstein Deborah Moore Clark Janet Cooper Haas Fiona Harmon Melinda Johnston Debra Moffitt Leslie Catherine Pike Plough Lee Rhodes Nikki Wilson CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Augusto Photography James Brown Scott Stiles
28 PROFILES
5200 Park Road, Suite 111 Charlotte, NC 28209 704/521-6872 www.todayscharlottewoman.com
28 Befriending Success
Sara Ellington And Stephanie Triplett Parlay A Special Bond Into Two Book Deals
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32 Golden Girls
McDonald’s Franchise Owners Elena Ramos, Ann Stanton Find Empowerment Under The Arches
FEATURES
39 Redefining Relationships
A Look At How Breast Cancer Alters Lives, Relationships
46 High Time For Tea
Warm The Heart And The Palate
Today’s Charlotte Woman is published by Today’s Woman Inc., and is distributed on a complimentary basis throughout the greater Charlotte area. Subscription rate is $20 per year for 11 issues plus the TCW Resource Guide. Copyright ©2009 Today’s Woman, Inc. All rights reserved. Copying or reproduction, in part or in whole, is strictly prohibited.
OnTheCover
Today’s Charlotte Woman and Today’s Woman Inc. do not necessarily endorse the views and perceptions of contributors or advertisers.
Rosalinda disch, breast cancer educator and advocate. photo by augusto photography.
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I want what’s best for my son. I watch what he eats, who he hangs out with and how he’s doing in school. And if he becomes ill, I know where he’s going: Levine Children’s Hospital. Where dozens of world class specialists in over 30 specialty areas provide the most advanced pediatric care in our region. It’s my child. I have a voice.
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todayscharlottewoman.com Insider Living
Sneak-Peek
Female Focus A Look Inside The Ties That Bind The Light Factory’s illuminating exhibit, The Ties That Bind: Preston Gannaway & Dana Romanoff, features work by two esteemed photographers with connections to The Queen City. Visit todayscharlottewoman.com to view photos from the starkly beautiful collections of Gannaway, 2008 Pulitzer Prize winner, and Romanoff, 2008 Pulitzer Prize finalist (whose work is pictured here).
Online Profile
Breakfast Club
Yummy Mummy
Madness Bake Up Halloween Fun Eeek! Hosting a Halloween gettogether doesn’t have to be terrifying. Whip up a batch of chocolate mummy cookies as tasty as they are boo-tiful.
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Jennifer Snyder, executive director of the Hood Hargett Breakfast Club, is passionate about philanthropy and networking … not to mention, networking about philanthropy! Read our profile at todayscharlottewoman.com. TCW Update
The Meeting Place Look for The Meeting Place, our calendar of professional and social gatherings online this month at todayscharlottewoman.com. To update a listing, e-mail us at editor@ todayscharlottewoman.com.
Sisterhood
Pop Culture
Mentors Oh, The Things They’ve Taught Us Consider the things we’ve learned from a collection of fictional females! We’ve picked our favorite mentors from literature (we’ll clue you in on what we learned from Scout in To Kill A Mockingbird), film, and even TV (do you love Meredith Grey, from Grey’s Anatomy, as much as we do?).
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FromThePublisher
Accepting Help Graciously And With Love “When I was younger, so much younger than today, I never needed anybody’s help in any way. But now these days are gone, I’m not so self-assured, Now I find I’ve changed my mind and opened up the doors.” … Help!, The Beatles (1965)
A
s we enter National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I continue to deal with a second round of my own personal “awareness,” which recurred in early 2008. Still, like so many of the strong women I have met on similar journeys, I strive for a semblance of normalcy — to keep on doing what I do, fulfilling the roles of wife, mother, sister, boss, friend, woman. And I do so with a renewing sense of overwhelming gratitude for the help given by those who love me. Help is not something I instinctively know how to receive. I have always prided myself on being able to do it all, and to do it largely on my own. However, part of learning to live with cancer is learning to willingly accept the abundance of aid at my fingertips. While independence is something I’ve espoused for as long as I can remember, I have discovered how freeing it is to let people into my life to do some of the things that I would previously have done myself! And, along the way, many of my relationships have taken on a different dimension. It used to be that I was the person who always tried to be there for others. Even after I recognized that I needed someone to be there for me — to assist with dinner, school carpool, running TCW, or even to accompany me to the treatments — it was difficult to accept. Until I grasped that yielding to my own stubborn nature, so that someone could help, was not
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a sign of weakness. As I came to grips with a new source of strength, well, everything changed. Now I ask for help. And the people in my life rapidly and happily respond. I am grateful for the encouragement and support that my friends, family, and associates have so freely offered, and I am finally glad to accept. Living with cancer and all that comes with it can be awkward for everyone — you are not quite yourself, and your loved ones want to know what they can do without intruding. When one of my friends thanked me for letting her help, I realized that, of course, my accepting someone’s help is not just about me. And that in a time of need, the best thing you can do is to bless others by allowing them to bless you. Thankful for my many blessings,
P.S. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you will notice pink ribbons displayed in some of this issue’s ads. Each advertiser awarded a pink ribbon has made a donation, matched by Today’s Charlotte Woman, to Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. As you visit their establishments, thank them for their support of this magazine, and especially, for their support of Komen and its important work in the field of breast cancer research.
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Dr. Ross Nash is pleased to announce the
Grand Opening of
Cosmetic Dentistry Julie Abernathy
Mrs. North Carolina America 2009 Winner “Best Smile”
of the
Carolinas
Smile created by Dr. Ross W. Nash Photo by Deborah Triplett
Ross W. Nash, DDS Garry S. Tous, DDS Experience • Expertise • Esthetics
General and Cosmetic Dental Care 403 Gilead Road • Suite E Huntersville NC 28078 Appointments: (704) 895-7660
www.Cosmetic Dentistry of the Carolinas.com
Dr. Nash is also proud to announce that American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Accreditation Candidate Garry S. Tous, DDS, will be joining Cosmetic Dentistry of the Carolinas – providing the finest in cosmetic and full general dental care.
Of the nearly 8000 American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry members worldwide, there are only 45 who have achieved the exclusive level of Accredited Fellow. In all of North and South Carolina, only one dentist has earned this elite status by illustrating the required level of excellence in the area of cosmetic dentistry: Accredited Fellow Ross W. Nash, DDS. S e p t e m b e r
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GirlTime t i p s ,
t r e n d s ,
a n d
f a n c i e s
COMPILED BY MICHELLE YOUNG HUBACHER
Get Yourself Moving In The Right Direction
Avon Walk Charlotte
The Avon Walk Charlotte is a noncompetitive event in which women and men walk a marathon (26.2 miles) or a marathon-and-ahalf (39.3 miles) over a weekend. This year’s event begins Sat., Oct. 24, with an inspirational early-morning opening ceremony at Frazier Park, 1201 W. Fourth St. Extension. Following the ceremony, walkers begin their journey, traveling through Charlotte and concluding at the Avon Walk Wellness
Village at Park Road Park, 6220 Park Road. On Sun., Oct. 25, walkers complete another 13.1 miles together, ending back at Frazier Park, where they will be greeted by thousands of friends and family members who will share in a celebratory closing ceremony, which includes the awarding of initial new grants. For registration and donation information, visit avonwalk.org, e-mail info.charlotte@avonwalk. org, or call 704/377-3144.
Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® takes place Sat., Oct. 3, in uptown Charlotte. The Komen Race for the Cure Series®, the largest series of 5K runs/fitness walks in the world, raises significant funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer, celebrates breast cancer survivorship, and honors those who have lost their battle with the disease. >
Sat., Oct. 3
Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure 6:30 a.m. – Registration and packet pickup 7:15 a.m. – Aerobic warm-up 7:20 a.m. – Survivor photo 7:25 a.m. – Competitive 5K run 7:55 a.m. – Noncompetitive 5K run/walk 8:30 a.m. – One-mile fun run or walk 8:30 a.m. – Komen Kids for the Cure® 50-yard dash 9:00 a.m. – Survivor ceremony For registration and location details, visit komencharlotte.org, or call 704/347-8181. 14
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PRESB
Our new magnet is attracting a lot of attention. Advanced magnetic breast imaging technology, now available at Presbyterian One of the best ways to fight breast cancer is to catch it in its earliest stages. Thanks to the superior imaging quality of our new 3T MRI, our doctors are able to detect even smaller growths and tumors in women at high risk for the disease. Even if you don’t have a family history of breast cancer, take the first step toward early detection. Schedule a digital mammogram today by calling 1-888-844-0080, or visit presbyterian.org/scheduling.
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GirlTime
A Yummy Arrangement
Get Organized
Agendas Put You In Good Stead
And A Fruitful Result
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his month, Edible Arrangements® stores nationwide will offer two beautifully distinctive arrangements in an effort to raise awareness and funds for the breast cancer cause. The specially designed Breast Cancer Awareness Bouquet® and Awareness Celebration® will feature a variety of fresh fruit favorites, including strawberries hand-dipped in pink chocolate. Ten percent of the proceeds from each arrangement will be donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation®, an organization that provides funding for breast cancer research and free mammograms for women who could not otherwise afford them. For information on specialty fruit bouquets, visit ediblearrangements.com, or call 877/363-7848. For information on the National Breast Cancer Foundation, visit nationalbreastcancer.org. GYNECOLOGY • OBSTETRICS • WELL HEALTH
The creator of organizational tools designed specifically with moms in mind, momAgenda® has fashioned a sweetheart of a pink sticky note pad to support the Breast Cancer Alliance. One hundred percent of proceeds from the sales of the heart-shaped, polka-dotted “love notes” will go directly to the Alliance. Additionally, a portion of proceeds from the sales of the momAgenda day planner and the Mini-Daily day planner — two of momAgenda’s most popular products, in fuchsia and pink — will be donated to support the cause. Products by momAgenda are available online at momagenda.com, and at boutiques nationwide. For information on the Breast Cancer Alliance, visit breastcanceralliance.org.
A New, Straight Smile with 6-Month Braces!
Chinyere Anyaogu MD, MPH New Patients Welcome Complete women’s healthcare • Preventative care • General obstetrics & gynecology • Minimally invasive gynecological surgery • 3-D/4D ultrasound with video • Infertility • Contraceptive management • HPV and cervical cancer screening •
WWW.THEWOMENSCARECENTERPC.COM
704-948-9554 10235 HICKORYWOOD HILL AVE, HUNTERSVILLE I-77, Exit 23 in the Rosedale Medical Pavillion, Huntersville
704-375-0592 508 EASTWAY DRIVE, SUITE A, CHARLOTTE, NC
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Founder & President of the Wellness Coalition America, Terrie Reeves loves her new smile by Dr. Payet!
Smiles by Payet Dentistry
Affordable and Invisible solutions for... A Beautiful Smile!
704.364.7069 (Southpark)
&and & COSMETIC RY DENTISTRY
By Dr. Charles Payet
FREE CONSULTATION! Make an Appointment Today!
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The Gift Of Life Celebration Worth Sharing
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Celebration 4 Life™ focuses on celebrating a loved one who has faced cancer by spreading a positive and hope-filled message through an assortment of products adorned with the Life™ and DoLife™ symbols. The line includes Tshirts, caps, and Keep Cool bandannas in various “Cause” colors, including pink for breast cancer, and red, white, and blue for patriotism. The wearable messages are designed to be comfortable and
fashionable, and will remind supporters and survivors to cherish and celebrate life every day. Visit acelebration4life.org for information.
Chocolate Under Wraps
Riding High On Pink This October, Hershey’s Bliss chocolates will feature pink-ribbon wrappers and packaging to raise awareness for breast cancer. The Hershey Company will also donate $300,000 to the Young Survival Coalition, an organization dedicated to the needs of young women affected by breast cancer. In addition, Hershey will again sponsor the Hershey’s Tour de Pink — a four-day, 220-mile bicycle ride and companion “virtual ride” that raises funds for the YSC. Starting out on Oct. 2, more than 200 riders will bike from Chocolate World in Hershey, Pa., to Times Square in New York City. From now until Oct. 5, people everywhere can “ride along” and help with the fundraising effort by pedaling the 220 miles on their own (whether it’s outside, at the gym, or even on a bicycle built for two!), and tracking their miles online. For information on participating in the Hershey’s Tour de Pink Virtual Ride, visit hersheyspledge.com. For information on the Young Survival Coalition, visit youngsurvival.org. >
LASER HAIR REMOVAL BUY ONE AREA – GET ONE FREE
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Corner of Sharon and Colony Roads near Borders Books
AgelessRemediesSouthPark.com
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GirlTime Tickled Pink
Nail It With Your Support JESSICA Cosmetics International has designed a nail polish duo to benefit the American Institute for Cancer Research, a division of the World Cancer Research Fund. Forty-five percent of the proceeds from sales of the company’s Pink Power gift set, which includes the “Powerful” pink nail color and the high-impact “Brilliance” top coat, will be donated to support breast cancer research. Both polishes are free of toluene, formaldehyde, and phalate. JESSICA Cosmetics nail color is available at salons and retail locations. For information on Pink Power, visit jessicacosmetics.com. For information on the American Institute for Cancer Research, visit aicr.org.
Chain Reaction Brighton’s New Jewel
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ccessories creator Brighton has introduced its Power of Pink Bracelet 2009, and for every bracelet sold, is donating $5 to charities supporting breast cancer research. The bracelet features a heart, accented with pink enamel heart motifs, which slides open to reveal the messages, “Trust your journey” and “Everything is possible.” According to the folks at Brighton, the piece is designed to signify keeping one’s heart open to possibilities, and to remind the wearer that there is a gift to be found at the end of the journey. Since 2003, Brighton has donated more than $3 million to breast cancer charities, including the Salk Institute, Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, City of Hope, and Evelyn Lauder’s Breast Cancer Research Foundation. For information, or to find a Brighton store near you, visit brighton.com, or call 800/628-7687.
Drs. Peleaux & Bailey Caring Dentistry...With A Gentle Touch
Life is an adventure. After breast surgery, Amoena® is with you wherever you go, whatever you do. Products that restore body image, confidence and self-esteem are the perfect companion on the road of life. Join us for an Amoena National Fit Event and let a certified fitter show you a selection of Amoena bras and breast forms designed to fit you best.
We Care About The Person Behind The Smile Specializing In Cosmetic, Restorative & Implant Dentistry
Cotswold Plaza, 135 S. Sharon Amity Road, Suite 204 Charlotte, NC 28211
704-365-2765 • www.peleauxbaileydds.com New Patients Welcome
(704) 799-2873 125 Commerce Park Rd. Ste. 105 Mooresville, NC 28117 The Wellness Source offers certified fitters and is an accredited facility. Amoena is a registered trademark of Amoena Medizin-Orthopä die-Technik GmbH
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It’s A Lock
Security And Empathy Lock up your essentials at the gym or spa with a Master Lock designed with support of breast cancer research in mind. The maker of locks and security products is showing its commitment to breast cancer awareness with the introduction of a new pink line of products this month. In addition to raising awareness, Master Lock is supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation® with a $15,000 donation. Pink-themed locks are available at amazon.com. For information on the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, visit bcrfcure.org.
laser and cosmetic surgery for
Wrinkle Fillers Botox® Cosmetic, Restylane®, Juvéderm™, Radiesse®, Perlane® Tumescent Liposuction and Laser Liposuction Laser Surgery Laser Hair Removal for Women and Men Laser Treatments for facial veins, blood vessels, pigmented lesions, rosacea, age spots/sun spots, hyperpigmentation, scar revisions, tattoo removal Blepharoplasty Surgical Lifts for Face and Neck Chemical Peels Deep Cleansing Acne Treatments Mohs Skin Cancer Surgery Research Center for Dermatological Clinical Trials
And Decorated For The Cause
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prings Creative Products Group, LLC, in partnership with Hancock Fabrics, Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, and Creative Home Arts, has launched the Brave and Beautiful Design Challenge. To participate, each interested crafter must purchase an Anne’s Collection cloche hat from Hancock Fabrics, personalize it with embellishments, and take a photograph of a friend or relative wearing the hat. Photographs should be submitted by e-mail to braveandbeautiful@springscreative.com, or by
mail to Springs Creative, 300 Chatham Ave., Suite 100, Rock Hill, SC 29730. Deadline for entries is Nov. 10, 2009. Hats will be judged on originality, creativity, and workmanship. The first-place winner will receive $500; the second-place winner will receive $250; and six entrants will each receive a honorable mention and $25. In honor of the Brave and Beautiful Design Challenge, SCPG will donate $10,000 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure. For information, visit springscreative.com/brave-and-beautiful-design-challenge/. TCW
Varicose Vein Treatment/ Sclerotherapy Licensed Medical Aesthetician Medical Skincare Products Hand Sclerotherapy Over 20 different Laser and Light Treatments Available
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704.375.6766 I 800.626.6257 I www.carolinaskin.com 1918 Randolph Road I Suite 550 I Charlotte, North Carolina 28207 *Offer valid once thru 11/1/09.
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Q u e e n H a p p e n i n g s
v C i t y Y o u
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J e w e l s W a n t
T o
M i s s
Program Promotes A Worldly View Women’s Inter-Cultural Exchange Forges Understanding
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photo courtesy of women’s inter-Cultural exchange
photo by john swannell
en with economic security and his month, the Women’s independence have greater Inter-Cultural Exchange will control over their own and continue its mission to build their children’s lives,” she says. and strengthen personal and The Foundation was created to professional relationships among provide the business skills and women across racial and ethnic tools necessary for women in lines, with a focus on two internadeveloping countries to achieve tionally renowned organizations at economic independence. its Multicultural Women’s ConferWIE is currently working in ence. The program, Building Trust partnership with the Cherie Blair Across Race & Culture — A Business Foundation for Women to create Essential, kicks off Tue., Oct. 20, at a mentoring network involving 7:30 a.m., at Johnson C. Smith Unia select group of women entreversity. Deepika Bajaj, founder and preneurs. Stephanie Counts, copresident of Invincibelle, along with founder of WIE, notes that the forepresentatives of the Cherie Blair cus of Charlotte’s WIE aligns well Foundation for Women, will headwith Blair’s foundation, as both line the event. groups work to build relationThe half-day conference, which ships and make connections that ends at 1:30, will engage more than strengthen the ability of women 300 women and men in dialogue to take on leadership roles within on building, restoring, and retaintheir communities — here and ing trust on an international level. around the world. Attendees will participate in workFor information on the shops and table discussions deWomen’s Inter-Cultural Exsigned to closely examine trust as change Multicultural Women’s an important issue in forging sucConference, visit wi-ce.org. To cessful partnerships. register, contact Laura Everett Bajaj, a strong proponent of at laura.everett@wi-ce.org. For women forging global partnerships, information on the Cherie Blair will introduce conference attendees Cherie Blair (inset) and Deepika Bajaj will speak this month to area women about Foundation for Women and its to Invincibelle, a company dedi- building trust on an international level. mentoring program, visit cheriecated to helping women thrive in a multicultural world. Her international effort Minister Tony Blair, was formed to address blairfoundation.org. For information on Invinto promote a connection between successful the persisting gender gap in businesses cibelle, visit invincibelle.com. > women here and abroad is based on her asser- around the globe. Blair will address the ConWantToGo? tion that, “Trust among women can enhance ference through a televised message illustratworkplace and community collaboration, ac- ing the importance of improved access to The 2009 Multicultural Women’s Conference, precelerate creativity, spark innovation, and ulti- networks, information, and resources. It is sented by Women’s Inter-Cultural Exchange, is Tue., Blair’s contention that all of this is what will mately drive career success.” Oct. 20, from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Johnson C. The Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, strengthen the capacity of women entrepreSmith University. founded by wife of the former British Prime neurs worldwide to achieve success. “Wom-
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www.carolinasinfertility.org
Monthly Fertility Seminars Carolinas Medical Center Women’s Institute Dr. Michelle Matthews
“What Everyone Should Know About IVF” Wednesday, Sept. 23 Morehead Medical Plaza 5th floor, Classroom 5
Noon
Dr. Paul Marshburn
“Endometriosis and Infertility” Wednesday, Oct. 14 Morehead Medical Plaza 5th floor, Classroom 5
Noon
Dr. Rebecca Usadi
“Advanced Fertility Treatment” Wednesday, Nov. 18 Morehead Medical Plaza 5th floor, Classroom 5
Noon
Dr. Brad Hurst
“Fibroids and Fertility” Wednesday, Dec. 9 Morehead Medical Plaza 5th floor, Classroom 5
Noon
Space is limited, so please call 704-355-1920 to reserve a seat.
Seminars are open to the public. Refreshments provided. Patient appointments 704-355-3149. Drs. Usadi, Marshburn, Matthews and Hurst are Board-Certified Reproductive Endocrinologists.
Women's Institute
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QueenCityJewels
Domestic Violence Initiative Women’s Summit Creates Awareness, Hope
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ctober is Domestic Violence Awareness month. With that in mind, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Women’s Summit is hosting an Economic Impact Series on Violence Against Women — one of the first of its kind to address domestic violence in the workplace. The series is targeting human resource executives and personnel, and will be held Tue., Oct. 27, at Hilton Charlotte Center City, 222 E. Third St., from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jerry Fountain, president of the Carolinas/ Tennessee Region for Verizon Wireless, is the event’s keynote speaker. Verizon Wireless has been recognized for its corporate commitment to preventing domestic violence. Since 2001, the company has collected more than 5.6 mil-
lion unused phones for its HopeLine program, which donates unwanted wireless phones and batteries to victims of domestic violence. The Violence Against Women Series highlights the need for businesses to ensure the personal safety of their employees, and reveals how a comprehensive domestic violence policy can assist victims in achieving financial security. Research shows that women who are financially independent are more likely to leave abusive relationships.
WantToGo? For information, visit womenssummit.uncc.edu.
Sing Yourself Spooky Chorus Offers Ghoulish Fun
Glass Works Shine On Ciel Gallery Spotlights Mosaic Art
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he best and brightest of international contemporary mosaic art will be showcased at Ciel Gallery through Oct. 23. The exhibit, juried by master mosaicist Giulio Menossi of Udine, Italy, features work in both traditional and contemporary styles by artists from around the United States, as well as Italy, Serbia, Monaco, Wales, Canada, and Ireland. “The art of mosaic has been practiced for at least 3,500 years, and consists of precise cutting and fitting of hundreds of small pieces of glass or stone to create a design,” says Menossi, a 35-
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year veteran of the art form. “I believe that the slow, painstaking mosaic process exposes our personal stories.” For those interested in learning more about mosaic art, a master mosaic workshop will be held Sat., Oct. 10 through Mon., Oct. 12, featuring Texas artist Dianne Sonnenberg.
WantToGo? For information or to register, visit cielcharlotte.com, or call 704/577-1254.
The Queen Charlotte Chorus is hosting a chilling night with its “Ghouls Just Want To Have Fun” event Oct. 10, at Providence Presbyterian Church. The performance will showcase two hours of Halloween hilarity, including four-part a capella harmony by The Queen Charlotte Chorus, The Extension Chords, and chorus quartets (Rave, Finders Keepers, Prestige, Just 4 Grins, Yours Truly). The spooky sing-along has two show times: a matinee at 2:30 p.m., and an evening show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, and $12 for seniors and children up to 18. >
WantToGo? For information, visit queencharlottechorus. com, or call 704/556-0690.
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wo esteemed, emerging photographers with ties to Charlotte are the basis of a breathtaking exhibit by The Light Factory, The Ties That Bind: Preston Gannaway & Dana Romanoff. The exhibit, which runs through Jan. 10, 2010, features the work of Charlotte native Gannaway, who attended Myers Park High School and won the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography. View photographs from Gannaway’s starkly beautiful Remember Me, in which the photographer documented the true-life experiences of Carolynne St. Pierre, mother of three children, who died of liver cancer. The exhibit also highlights extraordinary photos by Romanoff, who, as a member of a team of reporters for The Charlotte Observer, was a 2008 Pulitzer Price finalist in the category of Public Service. Romanoff’s work
(pictured above) includes No Man’s Land: The Women of Mexico, which gives an in-depth look at how immigration is changing the social structure in rural Mexico, empowering many women to step out of their traditional roles and into roles including head of family and breadwinner. To view photography by Gannaway and Romanoff, visit todayscharlottewoman.com.
WantToGo? For information, visit lightfactory.org, or call Dee Grano at 704/333-9755.
Party Like A Queen The Renaissance Festival Is Back
I
n the mood for some 16th-century amusement? The Carolina Renaissance Festival returns to The Queen City with more than 100 purveyors of crafts and food, and hundreds of costumed characters. Enjoy European-style art and entertainment, including a jousting tournament and outdoor theater, plus an arts and crafts marketplace and tasty delicacies fit for a queen. The 16th annual season opens Oct. 10 for seven festive weekends, and runs through
Nov. 22. Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., rain or shine. It is located just north of Charlotte, between Concord and Huntersville on Highway 73 at Poplar Tent Road (between I-77 and I-85), and parking is free, courtesy of Harris Teeter. TCW
WantToGo? For tickets and directions, visit RenFestInfo.com, or call 704/896-5544 or toll-free at 877/896-5544.
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Job Changes/Promotions Central Piedmont Community College has named Paul Koehnke dean of its Central Campus, and Edith McElroy dean of its Levine Campus. Burke Communications Inc. has hired Amalia Reyes as account executive. Carolinas Natural Health Center, a naturopathic and holistic healthcare practice, has added Dr. Kivette Parkes, N.D. United Family Services has named Michelle Cawn regional director for its Cabarrus County office. Cawn will continue in her role as the agency’s Employee Assistance Program business development director. Janis Love has joined Bankston Partners, a Charlotte-based recruiting and consulting firm, as the division director for information technology. Sara B. Sink, CPA, has joined Wheeler & Company, CPAs, P.C. The Cabarrus County Tourism Authority Board has selected Donna Carpenter as president and CEO of the Cabarrus County Convention & Visitors Bureau. Cindi Bernart has joined Staton Financial Advisors as operations manager.
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Awards And Installations Laurie Halley, Girls on the Run of Union County coach for Wesley Chapel Elementary School, was named National Coach of the Year. The YWCA has announced its 2009-2010 board of directors: Angela A. Broome, president; Tami Simmons, president-elect; and board members Anjali D. Arnold, Lynn Crutchfield, Karen Furstenberg, and Marvette Monroe. Becky Keenan was named president of the Charlotte East Rotary Club for 20092010. The Charlotte Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals has announced the honorees of the 2009 National Philanthropy Day Awards: Deborah Whitfield, Outstanding Champion of Diversity; Nick Goudes, Outstanding Philanthropist; Marc Gustafson, Outstanding Emerging Philanthropist; Merriman Schmitt Architects, Outstanding Philanthropic Small Business; Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Barber, Outstanding Legacy; Johnson & Wales Student Alumni Association, Outstanding Student Philanthropy; Women’s Impact Fund, Outstanding Philanthropic Organization; Elaine Lyerly, Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser; EJ Underwood, Outstanding Professional Fundraising Executive. RightStaff received national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Greater Women’s Business Council, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council.
s t o r i e s
Elaine Lyerly, president and CEO of the Lyerly Agency, was selected as a national co-chair of the American Red Cross Tiffany Circle Society of Women Leaders, a national network of women who donate $10,000 annually to support local Red Cross chapters in their communities. LearningRx has named Angela Coleman Employee of the Year, and Carol Porter Trainer of the Year. In addition, Dr. Vicki Parker, director of LearningRx Charlotte, received the 2009 Customer Service Award. Marion Sullivan, senior staffer for N.C. Gov. Bev Perdue, and Michele Miller Houck, a Davidson small-business owner and communications consultant, were elected to the board of the National Women’s Political Caucus at the National Convention in Newport Beach, Calif. The Dore Academy has added the following members to its board of directors: Michael Cohen, Lori Henkel, and Lindsay Peed.
Send your news to:
On The Move editor@todayscharlottewoman.com Today’s Charlotte Woman 5200 Park Road, Suite 111, Charlotte, NC 28209
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9/22/09 12:13 PM
worknotes
Bored Silly How To Fight The Desk-Side Doldrums By Nikki Wilson
F
illed with humor, intelligence, and a probable lack of sanity, Margaret Cmelik’s new book, Ants Are Stupid: 100 Tips For Battling Office Ennui, offers ways to fend off the office blues and break free from the daily grind. (Just remember though, you eventually have to come back — or be fired … whichever.) With tips that include phrases such as “horse butt,” “Popsicle stick houses,” and “salsa dancing with Juan from the mailroom,” Cmelik admits on Page 1, “Most of these tips are useless. Many of them are prohibited in the office. A couple are morally questionable.” Prohibited or not, Ants Are Stupid will get you through the workday with a laugh. Just try Tip No. 80: “Getting packages puts me in a good mood. So I send myself one every now and then. People watch me open it and I am the center of attention. That’s al-
ways good.” Then, for a little relaxation, move on to Tip No. 16: “Sometimes a walk in the fresh air and sunshine does wonders for my mood. I like to stretch out under a tree, listen to the birds, and watch the clouds go by. Nice. At 5 o’clock, I wake up and go home.” Cmelik, who hates offices and brought her concept to life on a porch swing with a tortoise named Ed, penned Ants Are Stupid because, as she puts it, “Everyone could use a little laughter these days. Enjoy it and pass it around the office.” However, if you are searching for Tip No. 28 (which explains why ants are stupid), you’ll have to thumb through every page to find it — the 100 tips are scattered throughout the book, in whatever order and type font Cmelik (and Ed) felt like putting them in on publication day. Ants Are Stupid is available at MecPublications.com. TCW
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photo BY gerin choiniere
Sara Ellington (l) has forged a friendship with Stephanie Triplett that has taken the pals from motherhood to a successful joint career as authors.
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A Friend
In Need Crossing The Threshold Of Sisterhood By Lee Rhodes
F
or many women, female bonds are essential to living healthy, emotionally fulfilling lives. Studies prove that female friendships help combat stress and can even boost overall health. Most women know the joy that comes from having a good girlfriend. Sara Ellington and Stephanie Triplett have firsthand experience with that joy. Together,
they have battled life’s low points, including a bout with cancer. Fortunately, the high points — the births and rearing of healthy children, two successful book deals, an appearance on the
TODAY show, and a “cancer-free” declaration — have outweighed the lows.
And even though they live in different cities (Triplett is in Atlanta, and Ellington resides in Charlotte), Ellington feels that the two have “crossed the threshold from friendship to something more like kinship … like sisters.”
Opening The Book On Friendship
Ellington and Triplett met in Virginia in the 1990s, while working for the same advertising agency, and they hit it off right away. “Stephanie said she knew she was going to be friends with me when we went out to lunch and I didn’t order a salad,” Ellington remembers, smiling. That friendship continued through Ellington’s move to Mountain Island Lake, Triplett’s move to Atlanta, and as both women started their families. After her daughter was born, Ellington decided to be a stay-at-home mom, but she found herself struggling with postpartum depression and ambivalence about giving up her career. It was during this time that she and Triplett came up with the idea for their first book. The two, whose daughters were born three weeks apart, had e-mailed each other
frequently during the course of their respective pregnancies and into early parenthood. Those candid online conversations covering everything from labor and delivery to breastfeeding blossomed into The Mommy Chronicles, released by Hay House in 2005, and later developed into a Sirius radio show, which Ellington and Triplett hosted from their homes. The book earned a modest level of success, but it is Ellington and Triplett’s latest venture that has the potential to be a runaway hit. The Must-Have Mom Manual: Two Mothers, Two Perspectives, One Book That Tells You Everything You Need to Know was released in April by Ballantine Books, a division of Random House. The publishing giant expects the book to be its biggest parenting publication of 2009. “It’s a manual, but the underlying message is for moms to trust their own instincts,” explains Ellington, whose daughter, Anna, is now 8, and whose son, Cade, is 6. “Stephanie and I are not trying to tell other moms how to do their jobs,” Ellington continues. “We’re not trying to lecture or criticize, > O C T O b e r
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photoS courtesy of sara ellington
with backgrounds in advertising, stephanie triplett and sara ellington (l to R in both pictures) have been savvy marketers of both of their parenting titles, appearing on local news shows and at area bookstores.
Friends Forever By Karsen Price and Michelle Young Hubacher
You know she’s your best friend when … •
people stop you in restaurants and ask if you are sisters.
•
she never forgets your birthday, and doesn’t mind when you forget hers.
•
she offers to clean your bathroom.
•
she agrees with you that the greatest four words in the English language are: Just add sour cream.
•
you suffer a hurt, she doesn’t ask, “What can I do for you?” She just does it.
•
your mom calls her when she is worried about you.
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she knows each of your four brothers’ middle names (as well as their first wives’ names).
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she dials the salon when she sees you’ve cut your own bangs again.
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but to say, ‘This worked for me,’ or, ‘That worked for her.’ We had completely opposite experiences, and as parents, we come to almost everything really differently.” With its ultimate goal to make mothers’ lives easier, The Must-Have Mom Manual runs the gamut from marriage to car seats to co-sleeping, and everything in between. Throughout, there’s a lot of the Ellington and Triplett trademark humor. The book has been picked up by Target — a veritable coup for a book publisher, as the store carries fewer titles than traditional booksellers and shelves those titles face-out, which typically translates into better sales.
The Road To Success
Such triumphs have been hard won. Ellington and Triplett achieved their goals through persistence and perseverance, educating themselves on the ins and outs of the publishing industry by conducting endless research, and attending bookseller conferences, workshops, and breakout sessions. It was during this time that they parted ways with the literary agent who had signed them with Hay House.
Meanwhile, The Mommy Chronicles show on Sirius was flourishing. It became clear that two stay-at-home moms doing a live weekly radio broadcast out of their basements made for a good press opportunity. So, Triplett called and pitched the idea to the TODAY show, and the producers agreed to run a piece on the women. Their current agent, Marley Rusoff, who also represents big-name authors such as Pat Conroy, likes to share that Ellington and Triplett cold-called her and said they’d booked themselves on TODAY and asked if she would like to represent them. Rusoff took them on as clients and secured a contract for The Must-Have Mom Manual. It seemed life couldn’t get any sweeter. Then, in January 2007, Ellington was diagnosed with stage 2 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. She underwent a bone marrow biopsy and the removal of lymph nodes, followed by near-constant conversations with her medical oncologist and radiation oncologist as to the right course of action. She ultimately opted for six months of chemotherapy. “When I got sick, I don’t know what I would have done without Stephanie,”
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Ellington says. “She would call [from Atlanta] and say, ‘I want to come clean your house, bring you casseroles, keep your kids.’ ” But Ellington told her friend she didn’t need those things. What she did need was for Triplett to handle all the conference calls, emails, and other details relative to their newly agreed-upon book deal with Ballantine. “There was such peace of mind knowing she was going to handle it,” Ellington says.
Across The Miles
Triplett was there in other ways, as well. During a family visit to Atlanta, Ellington’s dog suddenly became ill, and Triplett accompanied her to the emergency vet. Ellington had recently lost her other dog to cancer and had just finished chemo herself. Told she was not allowed to accompany the dog back into the exam room, she sat, crying helplessly. Triplett jumped into action and convinced the vet to allow her friend into the exam room. “I was an emotional mess,” Ellington recalls. “Stephanie was my voice. There is just nothing like seeing someone stand up for you when you are too weak to stand up for yourself. She sat in that veterinary hospital with me for four hours on a Saturday night. I’ve always known that I have an amazing friend in Stephanie, but that night I knew I had a friend for life.” Cancer-free since May 2007, Ellington is relieved to have hit the two-year mark. But, she acknowledges, “Cancer is something you live with for a long, long time.” For now, she’s coming off a summer media tour and is busy juggling her kids’ school activities. Life, she says, is normal for the most part — and the future is looking particularly bright. Random House hopes the latest book will be a backlist standard, meaning it will be in print for a long time. She and Triplett are considering, among other projects, developing a “teen years” version of The Must-Have Mom Manual. “We work together really well, and I’d like to continue that if we can,” Ellington says. “It’s been a great partnership.” TCW C
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ToLearnMore For information on The Mommy Chronicles and The Must-Have Mom Manual, visit saraandstephanie.com.
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Ann Stanton and Elena Ramos (l to r) both own and operate McDonald’s restaurants and have learned to use the company’s system of training and networking opportunities to grow their businesses and form a strong female presence within McDonald’s.
photo BY AUGUSTO PHOTOGRAPHY
photo BY gerin choiniere
Women Under The Arches BY Janet Cooper Haas
g o l d e n
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o p p o r t u n i t i e s
hen most of us see those
Kroc, however, the business went much deeper
ubiquitous Golden Arches,
than that. “If you work just for money, you’ll
we think of tasty fries, cheese-
never make it,” he was known for saying. “But
burgers, and the red-shoed
if you love what you’re doing and you always
Ronald McDonald. To McDonald’s founder Ray
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put the customer first, success will be yours.”
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Local McDonald’s franchise owners Elena Ramos and Ann Stanton mirror Kroc’s definition of success with their own family-run businesses. Both have seen the rise of women in the structure of this powerhouse brand and, through their relationships with co-ops, such as the McDonald’s Women Operators Network, their successes just keep multiplying.
A Dream Come True
Ramos spent 18 years in corporate marketing at McDonald’s USA before she became an owner/operator two years ago. She worked directly under McDonald’s veteran Karen King, now the East Division president of McDonald’s USA. King, who started as a McDonald’s crew member over 30 years ago, still acts as a mentor to Ramos. “She’s the one who supported me and helped make the Girl Power In 1966, when Stanton was 16, she tried dream [of becoming a franchise owner/opto get a job flipping burgers at McDonald’s erator] come true,” Ramos says. When Ramos and her husband decided to in Binghamton, N.Y., but was turned away because she was a girl. Ramos was originally take the plunge and become franchise owner/ hired to work at McDonald’s by one of the first operators, they targeted Charlotte as the place female executives the company ever recruit- to set up shop. “The business opportunities in ed. Both Stanton and Ramos consider their the Charlotte area seemed so much greater,” she says. “We wanted achievements to date to surround ourselves an example of the many with other great busiopportunities that McWe’re not in the hamburger ness people.” Donald’s now offers business, we’re in the people Some of those great women, including netpeople just happened working, education, and business! We make sure that our to be family members. training programs. customers know we care about For instance, Ramos’ As women became them — and we make sure we brother-in-law, Ruben entrenched in posiRamos, came for a visit tions of power in the are a part of this community. and parlayed his trip 1970s, the glass ceiling — Elena Ramos into a burgeoning new began to crack, and career. He is a shift the landscape of corporate America was forever changed. Mc- manager in one of her stores and is working Donald’s was no exception. The corporation his way through training classes. Elena Ramos currently serves as the vice now boasts the largest group of minority and women operators in the fast food industry, president of the Carolinas Women Operators and Kroc’s vision remains firmly planted Network, and she continues to “pay it forwithin the McDonald’s corporate structure … ward” by mentoring young people coming up in the ranks, including one of her managand its 31,000-plus restaurants worldwide. “Girl power” is, in fact, a mantra of ers, Tinamarie Hoyt, who won the prestigious sorts within the McDonald’s corporate and McDonald’s Five-Star Employee Ambassafranchise culture. Ramos says the Women dor Award. Operators Network was an invaluable gift to her and her husband, Tony, when they All In The Family purchased their first restaurant. “I found the When Stanton and her husband, Greg, WON to be so helpful and welcoming and hung up their hats after 19 years of teaching, supportive as we transitioned into the busi- they were among 20,000 people who applied ness,” she says. “These women reached out and interviewed for 200 spots in the McDonand offered help, assistance, guidance, and ald’s franchisee training program. “We decounsel. They became my friends and sup- cided it was time for a change,” Stanton says. port group.” “We thought McDonald’s would be the right >
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photos courtesy of mcdonald’s corporation
mcdonald’s has created a culture of training and mentorship for women interested in management and even ownership.
place for us.” After a four-month interview process, the couple’s application was accepted. Since the majority of management and restaurant owners get their start as crew, the couple quickly realized they were in uncharted waters. “We knew nothing about running a restaurant,” Stanton admits. “McDonald’s has a great training program, which we needed!” After an unpaid two-year training process, the Stantons purchased their first restaurant in 1990. Last year, their company, Stanton Enterprise Inc., doubled its size in just eight months. Now, Stanton and her family own and operate six McDonald’s restaurants, from Char34
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lotte to Gastonia. Her son, Jeff, who has three stores of his own in Gastonia, literally grew up in the McFamily. “We had him working in the store, making up Happy Meal boxes,” Stanton says. “By the time he was 10, he was assembling sandwiches. He was able to come to work on days he didn’t have school. That way, we could spend more time with him.” In addition to the 401(k) plans, discounted meals, and McCrew Care (insurance) benefits, the Stantons’ success is reflected in their ability to provide 16 of their salaried employees weeklong, paid vacations in one of two private beachfront condominiums as a “thank you” for exemplary work. Above all, these caring franchise owner/operators strive to treat their employees like family. “If you treat people right,” Stanton says, “you don’t give them a reason to go someplace else.” From incorporating family into their business lives to networking within the McDonald’s infrastructure, both Ramos and Stanton have found their strength and support in the relationships they’ve built over the years. Through co-ops located all over the country, each owner/operator is plugged in and available to help keep the focus on employee development and customer service. “We’re not in the hamburger business,” Ramos says. “We’re in the people business! We make sure that our customers know we care about them — and we make sure we are a part of this community. We have a really great group of people working for us, and we try to show our crew we care.” The vast McDonald’s “family” extends in all directions and exists in over 119 countries on six continents, trickling down from the corporate offices into local franchises. According to Ramos, “McDonald’s really values women and diversity.” And, it is through their involvement with various McDonald’s co-ops, such as the Women Operators Network, that Ramos and Stanton have been able to come together with their colleagues to share ideas, network, and offer a helping hand. TCW
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MoneyTalks
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Lake Norman Urology Is Proud To Announce the Opening of The Pelvic Health Institute
Your
Smile
is the Ultimate Accessory!
Lake Norman Urology is pleased to announce the opening of its Huntersville location and specialty division, Pelvic Health Institute, featuring our newest physician, Dr. Bernard Taylor, urogynecologist, with co-director, Dr. David Konstandt, urologist. Our expanded services provide a single center experience for women and men with urological and gynecological disorders. Our multidisciplinary, comprehensive care center offers medical, rehabilitative, surgical, and nonsurgical treatments in a welcoming environment.
a division of
David Konstandt G. Bernard Taylor, M
David Konstandt, MD, MS G. Bernard Taylor, MD, FACOG
Signature Smile by Dr. Patrick Broome Photo by Carter Studios
RobeRt A. Lowe, DDS, FAGD PAtRick J. bRoome, DmD, mbA
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I-77 at Exit 23
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C A R O L I N A S C O N C E R T A S S O C I AT I O N NOW
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Hablamos Espanol!
2009-2010 Season
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JANUARY 22, 2010
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704.332.3308 u Now Accepting New Patients u Open Mon-Fri 9-5 1928 Randolph Road, Suite 206 u Across from the Orthopedic Hospital
FEBRUARY 16, 2010
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APRIL 16, 2010
EMPIRE BRASS HALTON THEATER, CPCC CAMPUS Tickets Range from $25-$50 Purchase Online or Call 704-330-6534
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* Fo r m e r l y k Ca ro l i n a s C As s o c i at
UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS Blakeney • 9830 Rea Road, Charlotte, NC 28277 Monday - Saturday 10 - 6 pm • Sunday 12:30 - 5 pm
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Redefining Relationships The Echoes Of A Breast Cancer Diagnosis By Debra Moffitt Leslie • photos by augusto photography
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reast cancer redefines lives … not only for the women diagnosed, but for the people who love them, as well. As the emotional weight of living with the diagnosis and, often, the physical toll of breast cancer and its treatment settles into a woman’s daily life, the way she relates to her spouse, children, siblings, friends, and even co-workers may be altered forever. She can assume a new outlook on faith, priorities, routines, and life in general, but what makes sense today may not make sense tomorrow, and her attitudes can vary from one day to the next. As a result, family and social dynamics can change: Relationships tend to improve (or sometimes, deteriorate), and new bonds are frequently formed. >
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Stacy Busby is an eight-year cancer survivor who has decided to be as open about cancer as possible with daughter Emma.
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Stacy Busby Family Ties
Stacy Busby, president of the Charlotte Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, is an eightyear breast cancer survivor. “We were close before, and had caring and loving relationships,” says Busby, referring to her entire extended family. “But now we spend more time together. It wasn’t a decision that we made — it just happened.” Busby carries the BRCA1 gene, which makes her and her family more susceptible to the disease. Her diagnosis is what originally motivated her to volunteer with Komen for the Cure. When Busby first learned she had cancer, her daughter, Emma, was only 18 months old. After her surgery and during her treatment and therapy period, Busby had to retrain herself to accept assistance and learn to rely on her husband and mother to help Nine-year-old Emma Busby remains a focus for busy mom Stacy.
out with that part of her life for which she had always been happily capable: being a mother. “I couldn’t even lift my child,” she says, remembering the recovery process. Emma’s day-to-day care was not the only issue Busby addressed. She and her husband chose to be open with their young daughter, talking about their feelings and the treatment Mommy was undergoing. “Today,” Busby says, “Emma knows as much about breast cancer as a 9-year-old can.” But it has not been easy. The passing of a family member brought out Emma’s fear of losing her mother. “I cover 12 states for my job, and the night before I would leave to go out of town on business, she couldn’t sleep,” Busby says. “That was difficult for her, and it was heartbreaking. The separation anxiety was directly related to breast cancer.” To help cope with the death of their relative, Emma and her mom attended KinderMourn programs for families who have lost loved ones. “Now, Emma is doing much better,” Busby says. Part of Busby’s change in personal focus has been her commitment to the breast cancer cause. Her work with Komen is an important segment of her life — one that “gets me to keep my eye on the prize,” she says — and one that she shares with her daughter. The whole family will participate in this month’s Race for the Cure®. In fact, Emma designed their team T-shirt: a play on “Busby,” depicting “The Buzz-Bee Lab” full of bees working to find a cure for cancer. >
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Rosalinda Disch has made it her mission to educate Hispanic women about the importance of breast cancer screening and self-exams.
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Rosalinda Disch Cultural Considerations
Rosalinda Disch, whose mother and sister both developed breast cancer, is committed to alerting and educating area Latinas about the disease. Through Komen Charlotte, she conducts workshops for Hispanic women, to encourage regular screenings, self-examination, and mammograms. Much of her mission, she says, is to help women realize that anyone can get breast cancer. “It’s not so common to hear about breast cancer in Mexico,” says Disch, a U.S. citizen who was born in Mexico and moved to Charlotte in 2001. “It’s an issue that most Latinas do not talk about with other women. They’re very religious, and they sometimes think of it as a punishment from God.” In addition, there is the concept of beauty. “As women, we like to look good,” Disch continues. “And we’re very feminine.” A cancer diagnosis and, often, the ensuing treatment can be devastating to a woman’s confidence, Disch says. Another hurdle for local Hispanic women dealing with breast cancer is the communication barrier. “Latinas often feel more comfortable discussing personal issues in Spanish, but many times, the doctor does not speak the language,” Disch explains. “They need to be educated, but not being able to communicate comfortably with their healthcare providers keeps many women from acquiring necessary information.” When Disch’s mother, Rosalinda Quiñones, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, it came as a shock to her family. “I had just received test results from my mam-
mogram,” Disch says, “and I called to tell my mom it was OK. Mom said, ‘I don’t know when I last had one, but I’ve been feeling a lump.’ ” Disch insisted that her mother schedule a mammogram immediately. Two weeks later, Quiñones called with the results: She had breast cancer. “Friends and family are very, very important in the Hispanic community,” Disch says, “and Mom and I are extremely close.” She flew to San Diego to be with her mother during the surgery, and says the whole family came to her side. A year ago, the family once again had to face difficult news when they learned that Disch’s sister, Adriana Lopez, had stage IV breast cancer. She found out just before her 40th birthday. Everyone was stunned, Disch says, because Lopez is a marathon runner who works at the San Diego Zoo and maintains a very healthy lifestyle. “When the breast cancer came,” Disch recalls, “I said, ‘Oh, my God, I love my sister.’ Now we talk more, e-mail more, and I’m trying to convince her and my mom to move to Charlotte!” She yearns to be able to help take care of her nephew, Anthony, and to provide support for her mother and sister. Disch notes that, in the Hispanic culture, women are the caretakers. They are devoted to their families, working hard, and always thinking of others before considering themselves. “I always tell women that family is important,” she says. “But if you’re not OK, the family’s not going to be OK. Always take care of yourself first.” >
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According to Sharon Anderson, “living through cancer” means participating fully in work and family dynamics.
Sharon Anderson Teaching Compassion
Sharon Anderson, a Midwood High School teacher who was named Teacher of the Year by The Charlotte Post, often speaks candidly to her students about her breast cancer. She says many women with advanced cancer might decide — or even be forced by illness — to discontinue doing the things they love. But, at stage IV of the disease, Anderson continues to work, often reminding herself and her students, “Don’t be afraid. We’re all terminal. No one’s going to live forever. “A lot of people say, ‘She’s battling cancer,’ 44
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and it’s very tiresome,” she says. “I don’t like the term ‘battle.’ A battle is done with weapons. Cancer is not about being in a battle or a war. What you’re really doing is living through cancer.” Anderson points out that, in the AfricanAmerican community, women tend to identify strongly with their breasts. “I’ve had women tell me, ‘I would rather die than have my breast removed,’ ” she says. “They feel that, without their breasts, they are nothing.” Even in her classes, she has found that “Girls think bodies are everything. But we can’t define ourselves by our breasts.”
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bcc-breast ad09-tcw
Anderson’s boss has been very supportive, allowing her to create several all-girl classes. When the girls asked, she showed them her mastectomy scars. Since breast cancer is occurring at younger ages, she encourages her students to do breast self-exams, and she even gave her male class an assignment to each get one woman to agree “in writing” to have a mammogram. Making the topic part of conversation and putting a face on the disease takes away some of the perceived stigma of being an African-American with cancer. While there’s not so much a sense that breast cancer is a “punishment” in the African-American community, there is often a feeling of shame among many who have the disease. Anderson works to promote healthy living and help change those attitudes. She says her husband and her family have been very supportive, noting that it made their relationship “tighter.” The experience has also brought Anderson closer to her mother and brother. “When I was 26 and just married, all I wanted was to get away from them,” she admits. “But, if I did not have my family, I couldn’t go through this now. My mother is always there, no matter what. I told her I couldn’t wash myself, and she put me in the tub and washed me. It brought back all those memories of when I was a child.” Anderson’s brother and sister-in-law also visit from South Carolina. “I am surrounded by love,” she says. She often reminds people, “Don’t wait until something tragic happens to find out that the people around you love you.” TCW
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In the fight of your life, WE ARE YOUR PARTNER.
Our Breast Center physicians are leaders in the field due to their dedication to patient evaluation and treatment as well as a commitment to research. Blumenthal Cancer Center is nationally accredited and one of only three hospitals in the state to be recognized by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. We provide local access to the most innovative clinical trials and treatments available offering options for current patients and hope for future cancer patients – fighting to give you back the life you cherish.
ToLearnMore If you, or someone you love, have been diagnosed with breast cancer, becoming knowledgeable about the disease can be an empowering path to emotional strength. Visit komen.org or breastcancer.org for information on everything from fundraising efforts to treatment options to local support groups for women and their friends and families. Additional assistance is available online from the Breast Cancer Resource Directory of North Carolina, at bcresourcedirectory.org, which includes a section (with Spanish translation) to assist Hispanic women, and other information specifically relating to women of various ages, ethnicities, and cultural backgrounds.
For more information, contact us at 704-355-2884 or 800-804-9376.
www.blumenthalcancercenter.org
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photoS BY AUGUSTO PHOTOGRAPHY
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E n j o y i n g
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T a s te
O f
T ea
By deborah moore clark
Tea-Licious Polly, put the kettle on. We’ll all have tea. ~
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he concept of afternoon tea may date back to the early 1800s in England, when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, complained of a late-day “sinking feeling,”
which she remedied with tea, cakes, friends, and conversation. Centuries later (and in no way related to a sinking feeling!), the United States now welcomes revival of the custom and art of tea. A hot cup at home warms the spirit and relaxes the mind and body, while high tea at a restaurant, hotel, or tearoom is the perfect antidote to a hectic day. Nationwide, tearooms and teashops dot the map, enticing tea lovers with exquisite pots, charming accoutrements, and choice tea leaves in delectable combinations for relaxation and enjoyment, either on site or at your home. Following is just a sample of the many enchanting teahouses and purveyors of fine tea available to the Charlotte area. Surely you’ll be inspired to don a string of pearls and gather your girlfriends for a spot of tea. >
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photo COURTESY OF THE BALLANTYNE HOTEL & LODGE
Accompaniments to tea range from the sweet to the savory.
Traditionally Tasteful Temptations
Upscale hotels sometimes feature afternoon teas. The Ballantyne Hotel & Lodge hosts a traditional, formal afternoon tea for guests Wednesdays through Sundays, from 1 to 5 p.m. in the Hotel’s well-appointed lobby. Savory tea sandwiches, sumptuous pastries, and select loose teas brewed tableside are presented by a team of servers. Allow about an hour for this indulgence. The Tea House, in Cornelius, offers guests three tearooms within the centuryold house: the whimsical Alice in Wonderland Room, the grand British Colonial Room, and the pretty-in-pink Patricia’s Parlor. Brewed tea in English teapots, served tableside with tender scones, house-made lemon curd, and mock Devonshire cream, is the order of the day here, where four tea fare menus are available to customers who secure reservations. Early this year, mother and daughter Rachel Seeley and Kate Proctor opened Charlotte’s Ooh-La-La’s teahouse, where high tea is served Tuesday through Saturday, any time of the day. Menu items include fine English and Chinese teas, puff pastries filled with assorted cheeses and seafood, specialty sandwiches, warm English scones with fresh lemon curd, miniature brownie points, and delicate tea biscuits. The eclectic, relaxed Elizabeth neighborhood location and the hostesses’ carefully attentive service make taking tea here a special treat. Located inside SouthPark mall, Teavana is known for its fresh, high-quality teas in a place that is part tea bar and part tea emporium, with 110 premium tea selections available. In addition to its specialty teas, Teavana offers for purchase an array of beautiful Asian teapots, including porcelain, ceramic, clay, cast iron, celadon, glass, and bone china creations. TEA ReX® Teahouse, which closed in > 48
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Home Brew If brewing a flavorful cup of hot tea at home is your goal, there are ways to make it every bit as special as high tea in an elegant, whitetablecloth establishment.
Optimal Health Medicine Center
The Mole Hole Save The Date Holiday Open House November 8, 2009
• Start with a kettle of fresh, cold tap water. Cold water is essential because of its greater oxygen content, which gives brewed tea a fuller flavor. • Put the kettle on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a boil. While you’re waiting, warm your teapot by filling it with hot tap water. • When the water in the kettle boils, empty the “warming” water from the teapot and fill it with water from the kettle. • Use one teaspoon of leaves in a “tea ball” infuser, or one tea bag per cup of water. For stronger tea, add another teaspoon of leaves to the infuser, or one extra bag to the pot.
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Keep the small promises you’ve made to yourself
• Tea connoisseurs often shudder at the mention of tea bags, as most bagged teas are of a lower quality than those packaged as loose leaves. However, there are quality bagged teas available. If you use an infuser, choose one that will accommodate the correct measure of tea leaves without packing. • Put the lid on the teapot and let the tea brew for three to five minutes. Black teas should steep no more than five minutes, and leaves should be promptly removed from the pot to avoid stewed leaves and a too-strong, bitter taste. For reliably consistent flavor, always brew by the clock, not the color. • Cover the pot with a “cozy” to keep the tea piping hot. • Serve in pretty teacups, with cream or lemon and sugar, and dainty cookies, pastries, or finger sandwiches.
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photo courtesy of Matthews Woman’s Club Service League
Servers for Matthews Woman’s Club Service League prepare for the group’s annual Victorian Christmas benefit tea.
June, has re-emerged as TEA ReX® ONLINE. Now an Internet-based mail-order business, the company offers a local Wednesday pickup program to Charlotte-area customers. The Matthews Woman’s Club Service League hosts a series of Victorian Christmas teas in the Historic Reid House during
the first weekend of December each year. Seven evening teas feature homemade sweets and savories, served with classic Earl Grey, as well as entertainment from a harpist, costumed carolers, a historian, and a re-enactor. Proceeds benefit the local community. TCW
Want To Go? The Ballantyne Hotel & Lodge 10000 Ballantyne Commons Parkway 704/248-4000 theballantynehotel.com Ooh-La-La’s 1942 E. Seventh St. 704/372-9599 ooh-la-las.com The Tea House Restaurant & Catering 20517 N. Main St., Cornelius 704/896-9813 the-teahouse.com
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TEA ReX® ONLINE 704/525-3366 tearex.com Teavana 4400 Sharon Road, SouthPark mall 704/362-5181 teavana.com Matthews Woman’s Club Service League Victorian Benefit Teas, Dec. 3-6 Historic Reid House, 134 W. John St., Matthews 704/849-5063 matthewswomen.org
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When ordinary just won’t do.
photo courtesy of Matthews Woman’s Club Service League
is NOT part of the program
Our team works with you to create a weight loss program that is as individual as you are. We provide all the Promenade on Providence • Beside Ann Taylor loft 5341 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy. • Charlotte, NC 28277 • 704-845-5466
After The Referral...
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Dr. Kiya Green Dixie Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology
he relationship between you and your dentist is a special one. Your dentist may be the first to observe a change in your health. When a periodontal change is noted, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist. Left untreated, periodontitis may lead to tooth loss, heart disease, stroke, respiratory issues, and complications with diabetes and pregnancy. Dr. Kiya Green Dixie, of the Periodontal & Implant Center of Matthews, is board certified and the only practicing female periodontist in the Charlotte area.
The Periodontal & Implant Center of Matthews offers patients: • A soft touch in a caring atmosphere. • The only laser FDA approved to treat periodontitis, which means therapy without cutting, sutures, or pain. • Treatment of non-disease periodontal issues, such as frenectomies, gum grafting, correcting gummy smiles, and implant therapy. • Different levels of sedation, if necessary, including IV sedation, oral sedation, and laughing gas. • Periodontic care for pediatric and orthodontic patients.
Periodontal & Implant Center of Matthews 1320 Matthews Township Pkwy., Suite 101, Matthews, NC 28105 (704) 847-5657 • www.matthewsperio.com
tools you need to make the right lifestyle changes for a new and better life.
Lifestyle Management: using nutritional, exercise, behavioral education and counseling Metabolic Testing Body Composition Testing Smoking Cessation Medical Management: using evidence-based medical treatments
Surgical Management: using laparoscopic techniques for adjustable gastric banding, gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, duodenal switch, revisional surgery, as well as single-incision and incisionless techniques Research Trial Recruitment
Providing compassionate weight loss care for a lifetime
David Voellinger, MD, FACS, FASMBS Cathy Head, MSN, ANP-BC Candace Bishop, PA-C Mary Sha Miller, RN, RC Kendra Moree, MSW, P-LCSW Heather Mackie, MS, RD, LDN Annie Lee, MS
877-347-4143 • 704-347-4144 www.southeastbariatrics.com info@southeastbariatrics.com 2300 RANDOLPH RD, CHARLOTTE, NC 28207
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fashion
A Tip Of The Hat To Style
Cream of the flock. A Step Back In Time, inside Karen’s Beautiful Things
photo by augusto photography Oh-so Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. A Step Back In Time, inside Karen’s Beautiful Things
The net effect is that you’re gorgeous. Kitsch-y-Cool Vintage, inside Sleepy Poet Antique Mall
Brimming over with panache. Kitsch-y-Cool Vintage, inside Sleepy Poet Antique Mall
Styled by Michelle Young Hubacher and Anita O’Hara
Unflappable ‘40s finesse. Kitsch-y-Cool Vintage, inside Sleepy Poet Antique Mall
The newsboy’s got nothing on you. Dillard’s
Extreme femininity gone to your head. A Step Back In Time, inside Karen’s Beautiful Things
Chocolate delight. Dillard’s
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Hats And Hair Loss
H
ats worn to conceal hair loss are often very different from those worn by women with lots of locks. Hair loss, particularly when brought on by chemotherapy, not only leaves a woman feeling exposed emotionally, but it literally exposes the sensitive skin of the scalp. For a woman who has lost her hair, a hat quickly evolves from an optional accessory to an essential piece of clothing. There are several things women with hair loss may want to keep in mind when outfitting their heads with comfortable (and, yes, pretty!) hat solutions. Hats for women with hair loss should be … • sized for a head without hair. • full enough to cover the hair line. • appropriate both indoors and outdoors. • constructed for comfort, often from natural fabrics.
A Step Back In Time Welcome to Charlotte’s Premier Vintage Boutique.
Here are a few of our favorite Web sites for hats and head coverings specifically designed for women who have lost their hair due to medical treatment: softhats.com Our hat pick: The Tucks ’N Darts Reversible Hat (pictured above) 4women.com Our hat pick: The Amazing Grace headcovers.com Our hat pick: The Satin Rose Hat
Nostalgic collection of vintage apparel and accessories spanning the eras of the 1920’s through 1970’s
Hair loss is caused by a variety of conditions, including
As a cancer survivor, I will be donating 10% of my profits to the Susan G. Komen Foundation during the month of October.
heredity, illness, and reaction to medical treatments. Hair replacement options run the gamut from chemical to surgical to cosmetic. Visit us at todayscharlottewoman.com for information on wigs and other nonsurgical, nonmedical hair loss solutions.
Look for new party and holiday items arriving daily!
Located inside Karen’s Beautiful Things at The Arbore tum 704-998-8339 • victoria02@infoshreve.com Victoria Ross ~ Proprie tor
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anti-aging technology
The Newest Generation In
Ignite the Intimacy inYour Relationship
The Center for Sexual Health & Education in Ballantyne Corporate Park is dedicated to improving the sexual wellness of both men and women. Our team of board-certified physicians and therapists offers a variety of services for men and women including:
• Couples counseling • Treatment of low desire
• Diagnosis and treatment of ED • Hormone treatments for men & women
We promote healthy life choices and can help reduce the daily stresses of life.
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3440 Toringdon Way, Suite 205, Charlotte, NC 28277 We accept CareCredit®
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A d d i n g
C a n d l e s
T o
Y o u r
B e a u ty
R o u t i n e
Simply
Illuminating C By Fiona Harmon
andlelight’s effect on you — your sense of well-being, beauty, and inner peace
— may be more powerful than you could have ever imagined. The simple act of lighting a candle has, for many, a spiritual significance that can evoke thoughts of a loved one, induce an aura of tranquility, encourage introspection, and bring
about emotional healing. Consider adding candles to your beauty and relaxation ritual at
home. If you don’t have a relaxation ritual, now may be a good time to create one. Let us help you light the way with candle selections sure to send you searching for a match. >
Thymes Votive, in Frasier Fir thymes.com. Also sold in specialty shops, including The Mole Hole, Blis, and Joseph-Beth Booksellers.
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Tocca Candela Travel-Size Candle, in Havana Sugarcane Rum tocca.com/store/ Also sold in Sephora stores.
PartyLite Couture Hurricane and Votives partylite.com
HollyBeth’s Natural Luxury Hand-Poured All-Natural Soy Candle hollybeth.net
Henri Bendel Filled Candle, in Vanilla Woods henribendel.com Also sold in Bath & Bodyworks.
Scandle Pourable Body Massage Candles abodycandle.com
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Be Part Of Today’s charlotte Woman in January
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The Chippendale dining table — a family heirloom — is flanked by chairs covered in custom fabric created by decorator Vicki Payne.
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An artist’s rendering of this year’s Build for the Cure home.
Home For The Cure House Tour Benefits Komen Foundation By Melinda Johnston • photos by scott stiles
T
he Springfield community’s newest custom home will soon welcome its family — a young, professional couple and their two children, ages 4 and 6. But they won’t be moving in just yet. For the next few weeks, the 5,700-square-foot farmhouse, located in this
attractive Fort Mill, S.C., neighborhood, will serve another purpose.
Before ground was broken on their dream home, the couple graciously agreed to let their new house benefit one of their favorite charities. As a Build for the Cure home, it will open for public tours on weekends, starting Oct. 16 through Nov. 1, to benefit the Charlotte Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. Custom home builder Eric Johnson, of E.S. Johnson Builders, says the project has special meaning to him. “My family has been greatly affected by breast cancer over the past 25 years,” he explains. “This house gives us a chance to take our talents and our willingness to work hard, and do some good. I hope it helps get the word out about breast cancer awareness and the importance of early detection.”
Televising The Cause
The $1.3-million house can also be viewed by thousands of people from across the United States. The entire building process, from turning the first shovel of dirt to placing the last piece of furniture, has been carefully documented by Cutters Productions for a nine-part For Your Home series, hosted by Vicki Payne and airing on PBS stations nationwide in October. Payne, the decorator for the home, and a cancer survivor herself, says this current series of For Your Home shows is designed to help future homeowners make the right decisions, in the right order, when building a custom home. Consider the Build for the Cure home, for example. Even though the homeowners were heavily > o ct o b e r
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A bureau in black, from Aspen Home, provides a lovely storage solution in the home’s master bedroom, and looks striking against hickory-stained wood floors from Anderson Hardwood Floors. Shain Gallery provided artwork throughout the home.
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involved from the beginning, the front porch design had to be revised after construction had already begun, to include gas lights that weren’t on the original wish list. “The initial plan didn’t allow for enough clearance for gas lights, but we were able to go in, modify the porch, and raise the ceiling to add them,” Payne says. “Hopefully, showing the importance of making the right decisions at the right time will help other people avoid these sorts of situations.”
What’s Old Is New Again
Sitting off the street on a 2.5acre lot, the white-planked, traditional Southern-style house, designed by Carolina Design Group’s Trisha Chambers, looks as if it has held its ground since the 1930s. Inside, a mixture of old and new furnishings continues the vintage look. Each space is unique, but bound together by complementary colors and an open floor plan. “Throughout the house, you’ll find new furniture, but also antiques that belong to the family,” Payne says. “We sat down with the homeowner and said, ‘What do you want to incorporate in this house, and what do you want to leave behind?’ ” An antique hunt table in the foyer stands in contrast to the brightly colored, multi-patterned wicker bar stools in the breakfast area. The two-story, octagonal dining room houses a Chippendale dining table that belonged to the homeowner’s mother. Gathered around the beautiful old table are new parsons wing chairs upholstered in yellow and white floral, one of many of Payne’s custom fabrics found throughout the house. Payne accommodated a few
special requests, as well. “There’s a refrigerator in the butler’s pantry to hold soft drinks,” she laughs. “The owner told me he wanted a refrigerator where, when he got home at the end of the day, there was always cold pop.” In the large country kitchen and adjoining mudroom, cabinets and cubbies are painted cream and “portabella.” Cabinets in the pantry and laundry room are a fresh mint green. In keeping with the farmhouse style, in which owners would have used whatever paint they had on hand, different colors were used to paint the cabinets. The sunroom, which is designed to look like an old porch that was added at a later date, is decorated as a solarium and highlighted by two soft yellow leather chairs. Southern-pine beams top the two-story family gathering room. One side is open to the kitchen; the other is graced by a large fireplace built of Charleston reclaimed brick. A series of multilevel stone terraces stretches across the back of the house. The master suite is decorated in calming white, black, and aqua, and is highlighted by a contemporary black poster bed. Walls are painted a light aqua, with a dark aqua tray ceiling offering the effect of an endless sky. In the master bath, a white, free-standing clawfoot tub stands next to a large glass shower. A walk-in closet is designed with both husband and wife in mind.
Our Eva Gordon ceramics, above, are featured at BLACKLION-Pineville. (Visit Booth #338.)
Reid’s offers all custom decorating services: • Drapery • Wallpaper • Carpet and Rugs • Flooring • Paint Selections • Tile • Accessories • Home Staging
704.367.0703 Please call for directions and in-studio appointments at no charge.
A Little Fun And Fancy
While the main floor of the house is casual and inviting, the true fun begins on the upstairs level, which is devoted to the children’s needs. Payne integrated the family’s young son’s existing wooden pirate-ship bed into his > o ct o b e r
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A textured wool and silk rug from Stark Carpet is a lovely stage for a finial-topped bed and leather-seated bench from Aspen Home and night stand from Hammary.
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room, using a color palette on the walls, window treatments, carpet, and houndstooth bedding that will grow with him. A child-sized tunnel connects the bedroom to the playroom, where a Neverland theme comes alive. “I have never done theme rooms before, but we couldn’t help ourselves!” Payne says. The playroom’s faux-finished walls feature Peter Pan characters, which mix well with themed furnishings that provide plenty of fuel for young imaginations. The daughter’s room is decorated in white and raspberry, and is fit for a princess. Her queen-sized bed is backed by a hand-painted, raspberry-colored cane and wood headboard. One side of the room contains an alcove that is perfect for reading, playing with dolls, or en-
tertaining friends. Raspberry and white Casafiora draperies frame the windows.
A House With Purpose
As glorious as the finished product is, it’s important to remember that this house just may save lives. Gloria Scienski, executive director for Susan G. Komen for the Cure Charlotte Affiliate, says the generosity of the homeowners, E.S. Johnson Builders, and the team from For Your Home will most certainly make a big difference in the lives of many women and men throughout the region. “The Build For the Cure home is the perfect venue for reaching the Fort Mill and Charlotte communities with the message of early
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detection,” Scienski says. “The home will not only raise awareness of breast health, but will also generate funds to be used in the local area for early detection services, as well as provide funding for national research.” TCW
Fairview Rd
Strawberry Hill Shopping Center Near the intersection of Providence & Fairview
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Realtor ®/Broker 704-839-1809 (mobile) 704-909-5036 (direct) helen@hmproperties.com
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WantToGo? The Build for the Cure house is located at 214 Horton Grove Rd., Fort Mill, SC 29715. It opens Fri., Oct. 16, for a sneak-peek party; tickets are $35. It then opens for tours each Fri. through Sun., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Nov. 1. Regular admission is $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Advance tickets may be purchased at area Lowes Foods and BlackLion stores. For information, visit foryourhome.com.
Closed on Sundays
Thai Orchid
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v H e a l t h M a t t e r s
In Support Of Support Groups Offer Opportunities To Share By Catherine Pike Plough
W
e live in a time that offers myriad ways to achieve better health. We’re
well-versed in the importance of exer-
cise and the value of a varied diet full of
fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. And, these days, like never before, we recognize the benefits that emo-
tional health brings to our overall well-being. Mental health is, in fact, something women have come to accept as necessary to help realize fully empowered lives. More and more, we are finding that the process of embracing a happy, well-balanced, and productive lifestyle can be advanced by sharing experiences with others. For many, group support can mean the difference between being paralyzed by isolation and overwhelming emotions, or moving forward daily in an effort to live life to the fullest.
A Safe Place
Support groups have become a key to better living for anyone dealing with events and circumstances that surprise, bewilder, frighten, or exasperate. Hundreds of such organizations — large and small, formal and informal — are available in the Mecklenburg area. An astonishing range of topics draws women together in groups, some of which meet face-toface locally, while others allow for nationwide virtual connections online. Mary B. Moore, LCSW, of Charlotte’s Southeast Psychological Services, is one of a number of clinicians who oversee support groups offered by the practice. She says groups — whether simply supportive or psychotherapeutic in nature — can be one of the most effective means of improving a person’s quality of life. 64
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“Groups provide a safe place where individuals with common concerns and issues can come together, learn from one another, improve their lives, and leave feeling better,” Moore says. At any given time, Southeast Psych offers as many as 10 groups, including some for children.
Families Reach Out
Groups that bring together children or adults suffering from health-related issues — from visual or hearing impairment to cancer — make up the largest segment of support networks. For example, the ongoing discussion regarding the different ways we learn gave birth to CHADD, a national organization for Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Loretta Buckner, coordinator for the Mecklenburg chapter of CHADD, shares her story on the group’s Web site. When her first son was diagnosed with ADHD, Buckner began an education search that led her to CHADD, which provided her with a number of resources. After her second son received a similar diagnosis, the support of other parents who had “been there, done that” became more important to her than ever. “At the CHADD meetings,” she says, “I found a place where I could share our situation without being judged.” Sharing life experiences can be just as important to coping well with change, heartbreak, or a challenging situation. Sherry Weatherly was devastated when her son joined the Army shortly after Sept. 11. Her first impulse was to call the one friend whom she knew had a son in the military. “I had to find someone who understood what a heartwrenching experience this was for me,” she says. Together, the two women spread the word about a support group they formed and called Mecklenburg (South): Mothers of Military Service Personnel. Weatherly says the response to their invitation was amazing. Seven years later, Weatherly still leads MMSP. Her son has returned home with, among other honors, a Purple Heart … and post-traumatic stress disorder. Weatherly says sharing resources for the recovery and reintegration of returning military men and women has now become an important focus for the organization.
Breaking Habits, Making Friends
Addiction recovery is another area where mental health experts say support groups can play an important role. Margaret Hamilton was only 15 when she started smoking. As an adult, she began a war against her addiction, trying, she says, “everything” to kick the habit. She was 62 when she showed up at her first meeting of the Charlotte Chapter of Nicotine Anonymous. “A support group was a last resort for me,” says Hamilton, now 65. Structured much like Alcoholics Anonymous, NicA advocates a 12-step approach to tackling nicotine addiction. Hamilton’s first meeting led to a second, after which she says she was “getting ready to light up,” when she was struck by the irony that she was about to smoke just minutes after leaving a meeting to help her stop smoking. At that moment, she set a date to quit and soon was nicotine-free. At Charlotte’s International House, it’s the differences among people that bring together a diverse gathering of women each month. The group, known as Doorways, gives women who have relocated from other cities — and other countries — a place to talk about adjusting to their new culture, as well as their concerns regarding international issues. “The group is a hybrid, being both educational and support-focused,” says Doorways coordinator Lakana Bikhazi, who is a member of Charlotte’s Lebanese community. “While we invite speakers to address various topics of interest, the women who come here have developed strong friendships and built a positive base of support for their lives.” Not everyone is drawn to the support group environment. Some women say they prefer sharing in small, close relationships with friends. Still others benefit from meeting with a life coach or trained counselor. The good news is that women today have more options than ever before for finding outlets where they can discuss shared passions, problems, and experiences. There’s no better prescription for lightening the load. TCW
ToLearnMore For information about support groups available in your area, visit supportworks.org, or call 704/331-9500.
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An Apple A Day … Keeps Kidney Stones Away
L
oading up on fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, while limiting red and processed meats, sweetened beverages, and salt, is an effective way to ward off kidney stones. Dr. Eric Taylor, of Maine Medical Center, and his colleagues at Brigham and Women’s Hospital conducted an expansive study to determine the effects of healthy eating habits on the formation of kidney stones. Dr. Taylor’s team assigned to each participant a score based on eight components of a DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet
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— including a high intake of natural and low-fat foods, and a low intake of animal-based or highly processed foods and additives. Individuals who received better DASH scores followed diets that were higher in calcium, potassium, magnesium, oxalate, and vitamin C, and lower in sodium. Independent of age, body size, fluid intake, and other factors, subjects with the highest DASH scores were between 40 and 45 percent less likely to develop kidney stones than were subjects with the lowest DASH scores. For information on the DASH diet, visit dashdiet.org. >
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HealthFlash
Bet On White A Fairer Tea That Fares Thee Well
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hite tea has been around for thousands of years in Asia, but scientists only recently discovered that it may contain stronger antioxidant properties than other tea varieties. Antioxidants fight free radicals that form in our bodies after exposure to harmful agents such as alcohol, sunlight, air pollution, or pesticides, and help prevent cell and tissue damage that may lead to illness and disease. The tea shrub is among the plants with the highest concentrations of antioxidants, especially in the leaves. White tea gets its name from the silver fuzz that covers the leaves, which are picked before they are fully open. Because white tea undergoes less processing than other types of tea, the leaves are kept closer to their natural state,
retaining more of their antioxidants. White tea is believed to have properties that increase bone density, aid the immune system, and lower blood pressure. Plus, research shows that even small amounts
of white tea thwart the activities of the enzymes that break down elastin and collagen, which may help slow the development of lines and wrinkles. Not to mention, it makes a delicious drink!
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October Recruiting Event: Wednesday, October 14, 2009 The National Association of Women Business 6:00-7:30PM Tryon Plaza/ First Floor/Owners Lounge Owners Charlotte Chapter propels women 112 S. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28284 entrepreneurs into economic, social and Valet parking begins at 6:00PM political spheres of power worldwide.
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n t
Ruth Samuelson, Representative N.C. House, District 104
Our dinner meeting on election day will explore the value and importance of local leadership at all levels from elected and community to business and non profit.
Natalie English Senior Vice-President of Public Policy for the Charlotte Chamber Elizabeth McKee Executive Director of Leadership Charlotte November Meeting: Tuesday, November 3, 2009 Byron’s South End Networking 5:00-6:00PM Dinner/Program 6:00-7:30PM RSVP www.nawbocharlotte.org or 704-367-3454
W o m a n
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Chew On This Gumming Up The Works — In A Good Way
S
tudies have shown that chewing gum increases blood flow to the brain. Australian researchers recently found that the alertness quotient of volunteers who chewed gum for
20 minutes went up by almost 19 percent. Chewing also lowers levels of the stress hormone cortisol by about 16 percent. So next time you could use a pickme-up or a chill pill, try popping a stick of gum instead!
What You Don’t Know Breast Cancer And Hormones With a progressive approach to hormone balance, best-selling authors John Lee, M.D., David Zava, Ph.D., and Virginia Hopkins present an alternative way to look at the development and treatment of breast cancer. In their book, What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Breast Cancer: How Hormone Balance Can Help Save Your Life, the three researchers discuss the following: • Conventional hormone and estrogen replacement therapies and possible links to triggering cancer • Breast cancer drugs that may hurt as much as they help • Risk factors for breast cancer • The protective benefits of natural hormones • Potential dangers in our homes, our water, and our food Although Dr. Lee died in 2003, his groundbreaking research continues through the work of fellow researchers. For information, visit johnleemd.com. >
HEALTHWISE Hosted by Joey Popp
Live Call-In Sundays at 6pm Repeats Saturdays at 9am exploring Bio-identiCal hormone therapY oct. 4, 2009, oct. 10, 2009 stanley apothecary Douglas Yoch, PharmD signature Wellness Deborah Matthew, MD optimal health medicine Center Nelsa Ciapponi, MD a pathWaY to a Beautiful smile oct. 11, 2009, oct. 17, 2009 touchstone dentistry Alex Touchstone, DDS
examining ChildBirth anesthesia and epidurals oct. 18, 2009, oct. 24, 2009 Southeast Anesthesiology Brittany Clyne, MD Dana Hershey, MD alzheimer’s disease update oct. 25, 2009, oct. 31, 2009 mecklenburg neurological associates Erik T. Borresen, MD James E. Pugh, PhD, MD grant provider: novartis
Call 704-371-8895 With Your Questions
For more info or to view the Podcast go to www.wtvi.org Guest and topic suggestions send to: smielke@wtvi.org Media kits can be found at: www.themielkeway.org
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HealthFlash
An Emotional Journey Steering Your Way Through Grief
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hen you, or someone you love, are diagnosed with terminal disease, you experience a wide range of emotions, from feeling hopeless or angry, to feeling lost and as though no one can possibly understand what you are going through. Realizing you are not alone is an important part of acceptance and emotional healing. Dr. Owen Stanley Surman, who openly shares his intimate journey through his wife’s battle with ovarian cancer in his new book, The Wrong Side of an Illness, offers a guide to navigating the complicated emotional world of dealing with a terminal diagnosis. Strive for acceptance. Understand the inevitable and come to terms with the time that remains.
every available strategy that is positive; climb back up when we fall. Adapt. Enlist the help of friends and family. Allow those who want to help to participate in a way that is practical and manageable. Communicate with the children. If children are directly affected by this diagnosis or loss, find a support system or program that allows them to share their emotions with others facing the same feelings. Grief is normal. Denial, anger, sadness, relief, moments of joy, and waves of crying are a tossed salad of tobe-expected emotions.
Seek professional help. Sometimes grief is complicated by insomnia, excessive withdrawal, depression, irritability, Live like a surfer! or drug abuse, or suicidal thoughts. kohl's hkids ad-girl-tcw 9/9/09 10:03 alcohol AM Page 1 We do not command the tides. We must use Psychologists, psychiatrists, and social work-
ers can be located with your doctor’s help, or through professional societies, medical schools, and community healthcare centers. Maintain hope. Second opinions are acceptable. Medical practice provides no crystal ball. Beyond statistics, we are each unique. TCW
Whether you are playing team sports, riding your bike, or swimming at the pool - keep it cool!
Levine Children’s Hospital and the Kohl’s Healthy Kids Campaign are teaming up to help keep you safe, healthy and injury free. Certified athletic trainers are coming to a school, camp, church, YMCA, or community center near you to share important information about your child’s health and wellness. For more information about locations visit: www.levinechildrenshospital.org
Keep it COOL!
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MeetOurAdvertisers
Good Medicine
Carolina Compounding And Nutritional Pharmacy By Melinda Johnston
by W Photo
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dermatologists, urologists, OB/GYNs, ophthalmologists, family practitioners, and yes, veterinarians — are discovering that compounded medicines are the safest and most effective for some patients. , CPhT; a Burress ur La ; N “In the 1930s SN, RD, LD ol Land, M ano, CPhT. Bost; Car Pag a and ’40s, 60 pernd Li (l to r) Tia d an, RPh; an André Slo cent of all medications were compounded,” explains pharmacy he staff at Carolina Com- owner André Sloan. “In the 1950s pounding and Nutrition- and ’60s, drug companies started al Pharmacy specializes growing larger, and pharmacists became more dispensers of mediin the art and science of preparing customized medica- cations than compounders. Now, tions for all customers — both physicians are realizing that there is a real need to customize medipeople and pets! cations for patients who don’t Here, you won’t find sales clerks sorting photos, or soft respond well to standardized drinks crowding the aisles. What strengths and dosage forms.” The pharmacists at CCNP can you will find are shelves lined with the highest-quality, pharma- prepare medications that are free of ceutical-grade vitamins and herb- preservatives, dyes, sugar, lactose, al supplements, certified nutrition alcohol, or other ingredients that and weight management consul- may not be tolerated well by some tants, and a team of pharmacy patients. In addition, these comprofessionals ready to meet your pounding experts can alter the origindividualized prescription needs. inal form of a medication to make it Embracing an apothecary easier for the patient to ingest. “Since we are a custom-only model originally popular more compounding pharmacy,” says than a half-century ago, this compounding-only pharmacy Sloan, “all of our focus, energy, fills what has become a grow- and efforts go into preparing ing niche for dispensing person- unique medications specially prescribed for you and your alized medications as doctors of all specialties — including loved ones.” TCW
T
ToLearnMore Carolina Compounding and Nutritional Pharmacy is located in Cedar Walk at 16709 Orchard Stone Run, Suite 310, at the corner of Ardrey Kell and Marvin roads. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mon. through Fri. For information, visit ccnprx.com, or call 704/540-4330.
Welcomes Jeffrey S. Zaidman, md and Jason A. Wilson, md
If you’ve turned 50, schedule your colonoscopy today! early screenIng saves lIves Dr. Zaidman has joined our Matthews office. Dr. Wilson has joined our Charlotte office, and also brings Endoscopic Ultrasound to our practice.
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Certified Salon
Personal Care For Those You Love Infants to Elderly • Pets and plants too. When You Need It 24 hours a day • 7 days a week Where You Need It Home • Traveling • Hospital The Way You Want It
how stars beat frizz as seen on oprah available at
salon on 5th
call will at 704-813-0906 repairs Damage from Japanese straighteners, color, bleach, highlights and perms
“Caring for others with compassion, understanding, honesty, and dependability is the purpose of Charlotte Care Services.”
The ONLY professional smoothing treatment that improves the health of the hair.
www.brazilianblowout.com
“An all natural skin-care line for everyone! Luxurious body scrubs, silky melts, candles, lip balms, scalp moisturizers, salon exclusive products and more…
Licensed Acupuncturists, certified in Chinese Herbology with over 26 years experience. Doctors of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China.
brazilian blowout
Serving the Charlotte community for over 25 years
Gift Certificates Available (704) 335-0501 www.charlottecare-grandmothers.com
129 n. poplar st. charlotte nc 28208
RS Chinese herbs & acupuncture
Jimmy Huang
704-752-4192
Susan Wang
Pain Management • Headaches/Arthritics • Stress/Depression Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue • PMS/Menopause/Infertility Allergies/Sinusitis • Smoking/Weight Control • Digestion Disorder And A Variety of Other Health Conditions
to place your order today go to: www.beanniesbody.com
business networking
The WeLCOMe COMMiTTee
704-366-6818
counseling
Life & Career Change Coach Jackie Burleson CPC, MBA, EFT-ADV • Know Your Life Purpose Coach • Emotional Freedom Techniques 20% Off • Stress Management 1st Session • Free Consultation Available TM
EnergyConnect Coaching, LLC 704.529.5287 • WWW.ECCOACHING.COM
Jill C. Eilenberger LCSW, LMFT Psychotherapist and Author
3705 Latrobe Dr., Suite 320, Charlotte, NC 28211
attorney If you are a business or professional wanting to target new households, contact The Welcome Committee.
Ensure the future of those you love with Legacy and Family Wealth Planning. Telephone: (704) 843-1446 • Facsimile: (704) 973-0773 www.sabrinawinterslaw.com • swinters@sabrinawinterslaw.com 15720 John J. Delaney Drive • Suite 300 Charlotte, NC 28277
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We get there first and in person to deliver your advertising message. You’ll receive a prospect list, so tracking results is a snap. For sponsorship information, please call 704-660-1155.
www.TheWelcomeCommittee.net
Treatment For Emotional Eaters
704-522-0291 www.jilleilenberger.com
1515 Mockingbird Lane Charlotte, NC 28209
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fin a ncial services
R ea l Es t at e
704.777.3743 4832 Park Road, Suite H Charlotte, NC 28209
MONEY COUNTS
info@shapeupfitnesswellness.com www.shapeupfitnesswellness.com
strategies for the business of life
Specializing in
PERSONAL CASH FLOW MANAGEMENT Debbie Peterson 704.315.5623
SPECIAL OFFER -
Six Hours of Consulting at No Fee PROMO CODE: 4FREE
Deb@moneycounts.biz www.moneycounts.biz
11121 Carmel Commons Blvd., Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28226 Securities and Investment Advisory services offered through ING Financial Partners, Member SIPC Money Counts is not a subsidiary of nor controlled by ING Financial Partners
Working for individuals & businesses to provide successful financial plans in any economic environment.
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PAMELA D. STARKEY
Financial Planner/Investment Advisor Representative
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H o m e d e s i g n & Im p r o v e m e n t R e ta i l
Kathleen Kolb,Owner 704.922.9316 8508 Park Road #176 Charlotte NC 28210 www.budgetblinds.com
FREE In-Home Consultation
9601 Brookdale Dr, Suite 300 Charlotte, NC 28215 (704) 598-0001 www.milkmoneyboutique.com
Blinds ~ Shades ~ Shutters ~ Bedding
r e s ta u ra n t
704-527-2322 pstarkey@carolina.rr.com 5200 Park Road, Suite 122 Charlotte, NC 28209
Maharani brings to you the authentic essence of Indian cuisine, blending the finest aromatic spices to create dishes that are traditional in flavor, all to be enjoyed in an atmosphere that is warm, inviting and elegantly adorned.
Hourly project services available.
food
19 Years
At The Arboretum
We create custom window treatments and bedding
(704) 542-1444
vboling@carolina.rr.com
8206 Providence Rd. #1800 Charlotte, NC 28277
www.natmkt.com
Vitamins/Supplements Sports Fitness • Natural Foods
Mon-Fri 11-6, Sat 11-3 Located @ I-485 at Rocky River Road Exit in the Brookdale Shopping Center
Couture design is our specialty!
Mon-Fri 11:30 pm - 2:30 pm
www.vanessaboling.com
MONTHLY VITAMIN SALES
Lunch Buffet & Lunch Specials
Sat & Sun Noon - 3:00 pm Dinner Mon-Sun 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
901 S. Kings Dr., Suite 115, Charlotte NC 28204 • 704.370.2455
He alt h & W e llness
“We are here to help!” for your Relaxation Rejuvenation Rehabilitation Restoration with Quality and Variety!
Professional Therapies on Chair, Table or Floor” For Individuals, Couples or Groups
EvEry Friday is LadiEs’ Night!
704-525-9909 Mon-Sat 9-9, Sun 11-6
$5 wine by the glass and $4 Vodka drinks
www.CharlotteMBCenter.com
Host Your Next Event At Lebowski’s
730 Arcade Square, Tyvola Road, Charlotte, NC 28217
We Care About Women’s Health! With Chiropractic & Microcurrent Acupuncture We Specialize In: • Migraines/Headaches • Weight Loss • Fibromyalgia • Numbness/Tingling • Menstrual/Menopause • Back Pain new: Esthetics/Skin Care and Massage Therapy
Dara Barber
Cabinet Design Specialist Remodel & New Construction
Tennis Clubs • Bridge Clubs • Bachelorette Parties Graduation • Birthday • Engagement • Divorce or Ladies’ Night!
Call For Details!
Off Premise Catering Available.
704 522 9200 Ext. 27
8325-D Arrowridge Blvd. Charlotte, North Carolina 28273
We Make the Decision Easy™
1524 East Blvd. • (704) 370-1177 www.LebowskisGrillandPub.com
HirscH cHiropractic & Wellness center 2125 Sharon Amity Road, Charlotte, NC 28205 (704) 569-1567 www.Hirschchiro.com
C all 704/521-6872 t o rese rve yo u r s p ac e t od a y ! 2 0 0 9 / 2 0 1 0
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T o m o r r o w ’ s G i r l s
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Aaryn White And Janine Jackson Advocates For Teens
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Girl Talkin’ By Fiona Harmon • Photo BY JAMES BROWN
F
or Aaryn White and Janine Jackson, having someone in your corner means everything. “Teenagers need people around them who understand the things they are dealing with,” Janine says wisely. “When you don’t have somebody to talk to, that’s when things get out of control.” Aaryn adds that she understands how important it is for teens, particularly girls, to have an outlet where they feel safe to share feelings, information, and ideas. Aaryn and Janine, both 16-yearold juniors at Mallard Creek High School, have taken on leadership roles among their peers, in an effort to foster connections that help teens remain in control of their lives, and boost their ability to make good decisions. They became involved with the Girl Talk Foundation when they were ninthgraders, and have worked within the teenage community and the community at large to make a positive difference. Girl Talk Foundation Inc., founded in 2003 by WPEG-FM producer Janine Davis, was
formed to provide “rap sessions” for young women in middle school and high school; to help build self-esteem and provide opportunities for them to take part in leadership training. As an active participant in Girl Talk, Aaryn has helped spread the word about one of Girl Talk’s major initiatives: the For Teens Only Expo, Oct. 3, at the Charlotte Convention Center. After being tasked with utilizing social media to alert area teens to the Expo, she established a presence on MySpace, Facebook, and Twitter, and she helped create an event Web page. Through Girl Talk, Aaryn and Janine have volunteered to feed the homeless, and the lessons were indelible for them. “Not all homeless are adults,” says Janine. “Some of the people we’ve met [in shelters] were teenagers! You just have no idea what people you may see at school are going through in their lives.” Both young women, through involvement with Girl Talk and school outreach, have learned the impact teenagers can have on the world around them, and take that responsibility seriously. “We might not be able to solve all the issues,” Janine says. “But we can talk about them and solve some.” TCW
WantToGo? For Teens Only is Sat., Oct. 3, 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Charlotte Convention Center, 501 S. College St. For information, visit forteensonly.net. For information on Girl Talk Foundation Inc., visit girltalkfoundationinc.com.
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If you’ve got crooked teeth or spaces between your teeth,
You Can Have The Beautiful, Straight Smile You’ve Always Wanted In Just 6 Months!
Dr. Chris Bowman announces “6 Month Smiles” solution! Perhaps you’ve always wanted to straighten your teeth, but you figured it would take too long or cost too much. Or maybe you didn’t want a mouth full of metal braces. If so, now there’s good news for you! Now there’s a fast, effective way to gently align your teeth in about 6 months, using Adult Cosmetic Braces:
Brooke Before
3 3 3 3 Brooke After 6 Months Why live with crooked or spaced teeth, when your stunning new smile could be just 6 months away!
Clear, cosmetic, tooth-colored braces Tooth-colored bio-compatible titanium wires Light, comfortable forces & less adjustments Easy, rapid bonding techniques
We can now straighten your smile in just months, when you may have thought it would take years. Our “6 Month Smiles” technique often requires fewer visits and is less expensive than traditional, comprehensive braces!
Call 704-337-8070 today, and we’ll schedule your FREE CONSULTATION with Dr. Bowman to see if you’re a good candidate for 6 Month Smiles! www.SmileSatisfaction.com/6monthsmiles Note: Consultation required. Not all patients are candidates. No guarantee of specific results is made or implied.
Do You Or Your Spouse Have Obstructive Sleep Apnea? Are You Tired Of Your C-PAP Or Bi-PAP Machine? Do You Snore? Looking For Answers? “With my Somnodent oral appliance, I’m sleeping and breathing much better now, without the claustrophobic feeling I had with the CPAP!”- Lois Collar; Charlotte, NC
Would you like an alternative, FDA-Approved Treatment? Available From Dr. Chris Bowman (General Dentist)
Call 704-337-8070 today, and we’ll schedule your FREE CONSULTATION with Dr. Bowman to see if you’re a good candidate for this comfortable alternative treatment.
704-337-8070 • www.SmileSatisfaction.com/sleep Note: Consultation required. Not all patients are candidates. No guarantee of specific results is made or implied.
Finally...A Fantastic Alternative Solution For Obstructive Sleep Apnea! The Somnodent oral appliance is an effective, comfortable device that you wear in your mouth while sleeping. It’s small, silent, and requires no electricity. Somnodent is FDA-approved for treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
NO MORE MACHINES NO MORE FACE MASKS & Covered By Many Medical Insurance Plans
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Looking Forward To A
Beautiful Future PRIMARY AND DELAYED BREAST RECONSTRUCTION Tissue Expanders, Latissimus, TRAM, and DIEP flaps
NIPPLE RECONSTRUCTION
Correction of inverted nipple; Nipple tattooing
LATEST TECHNIQUES IN BREAST RECONSTRUCTION REVISION BREAST REDUCTION AND LIFTING SURGERY
Utilizing minimal scar techniques
BREAST AUGMENTATION Saline and silicone gel implants; Incisions in armpit, umbilicus, areola and breast crease
Fully Accredited Surgery Center Anesthesia by Board Certified Anesthesiologists
Join us for our 1st informational Symposium on COMPREHENSIVE BREAST SURGERY OCTOBER 22. Call our office for details: 704.549.0500. Trust the name you know. Joseph P. Hunstad, MD, FACS.
The Hunstad Center for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery and Medi-Spa Bill Kortesis, MD
Past President of North Carolina Society of Plastic Surgeons Section Head of Plastic Surgery at CMC University Hospital
8605 Cliff Cameron Drive • Suite 100 • Charlotte, NC 28269 • 704.549.0500 • www.hunstadcenter.com Hunstad1009.indd 76
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