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Complimentary December 2016

Living the Good Life

& M I R A G E M E D I S PA

Every day confidence you've only dreamt of... IREDELL LIVING â&#x20AC;¢ DECEMBER 2016

IREDELL LIVING â&#x20AC;¢ DECEMBER 2016

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from the publisher

Welcome to the December issue.

Iredell

A special thank you to our readers and advertisers for your trust and support this year...We appreciate you more than words can say! After a bitter and divisive election, my hope is that citizens of all parties will come together and remember that we are Americans first. We have much more in common than we sometimes realize, and there is more that unites us than divides us. The Christmas season is here! There will be parties to attend, concerts, school and church plays, and so much more. At this time of year, I think it is important for us to take a step back and focus on the true meaning of the season. While we gather and celebrate with family and friends, let us also remember those in our community who are less fortunate than ourselves and extend a helping hand to those in need.

Living the Good Life

December 2016

Mailing Address - P.O. Box 57 Harmony, NC 28634 (704) 546-5511 E-mail - IredellLiving@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Kristie Darling • Kirk Ballard • David Bradley Meredith Collins • Jessica Fox Lauren Davidson COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Shane Greene Photography

We at Iredell Living wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas, and thank you for reading the December issue of Iredell Living Magazine!

COVER STORY Blue Plastic Surgery Center & Mirage Medi Spa Editorial stock photography, unless otherwise noted, is from ThinkStock.com

Myron T. Gough Publisher, Iredell Living

W W W. I R E D E L L L I V I N G M AG A Z I N E . C O M Myron T. Gough Publisher/Founder myronlivingmagazine@gmail.com (704) 546-5511

Linda B. Wilson Advertising Sales lindalivingmagazine@gmail.com (704) 657-0237

Kathy Wheeler Director of Marketing & Design

Don Forrest Director of Business Development

kathylivingmagazine@gmail.com (828) 238-3224

donlivingmagazine@gmail.com (828) 244-6538

Bob Church Advertising Sales

Lori Cashion Advertising Sales

boblivingmagazine@gmail.com (336) 686-7271

lorilivingmagazine@gmail.com (704) 402-4887

Iredell Living reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing. Submissions are welcome, but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Iredell Living assumes no responsibility or liability for the information, services, products, claims, statements, accuracy, or intended or unintended results of any advertiser, editorial contributors, company, professional corporation, business or service provider herein this publication. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. 4

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content

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December 2016

8 • Preparing For The Holiday 12 • Blue Plastic Surgery Center

& Mirage Medi Spa Every Day Confidence You've Only Dreamt Of...

18 • Langtree Catering & Events

Healthy Food, Beautiful Presentation And Top-Notch Service

25 • Transitioning To A New Job

27 • What's Cooking?!

Holiday Baked Brie

28 • A Word From The

Statesville Chamber Economic Recovery In Iredell County

30 • A Word From The

19 6

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Mooresville–South Iredell Chamber 2017 Celebrate Business Luncheon And Community Excellence Awards

holiday | food | local business

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Preparing For The

Holiday By Jessica Fox

restaurants to home improvement retailers can be purchased almost anywhere, such as pharmacies, hardware and grocery stores. If budget is a major concern, consider giving your skills and talents. Offer your services by simply making a gift card on your computer or writing it in a holiday card. Homemade baked goods, crafts, and holiday gift baskets are always great gifts. Pinterest is a great resource for ideas. How did we live without all the inspiration it offers?! Personalizing items can turn an inexpensive item into a very chic gift. Glassware can be etched and monogrammed by printing initials on label paper, cutting out the letter to make a stencil and using some etching cream. Try this idea: paint the base of inexpensive wine glasses with Krylon chalkboard paint for a wonderful hostess gift. No need for wine glass charms, just write the person’s name on the base of their glass in chalk, and hand wash when the party is over. Wrapping gifts can be as daunting to some as the purchase itself. Bags with tissue can make this task quicker and easier. However, if you like the fun of tearing the wrapping paper from a gift, you may want to buy boxes and pretty wrapping paper. I typically like using two coordinating papers and wrapping everything the same. Instead of buying ready-made bows, I will buy a large roll of wired ribbon and tie my own. If you can tie a shoelace, you can tie a bow. Using a very long length of ribbon, wrap your package and tie a bow as if you were tying your shoelaces. After tying that first bow, then loop the streamers and tie another bow on top, continue tying bows until it has as many loops as you want. The wire in the ribbon makes it easy to shape once it is tied.

Shopping, decorating, wrapping gifts, entertaining, giving and receiving–there is plenty to love about the holiday season…or not. Let’s face it, we all love parts of the holiday preparations, but rarely do we love all of it, although I’m pretty close to loving it all. There’s a lot of work, planning and shopping…did I mention work? While some love shopping, others hate it, they feel the budget crunch, or find it difficult to choose a gift for someone else. For those who dislike the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, start early and shop online. I always encourage people to shop local, and many local retailers have online options. If your favorite stores do not have a website, check their Facebook page. You might find items you like in their posts. Call and ask if they can wrap it and have it ready for pick up. Spa and boutique certificates are another low maintenance gift item. Again, call ahead so it is ready for pick up. Gift cards for anything from 88

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There is nothing that gets me into the holiday spirit more than decorating. Yes, it’s a lot of work, but so worth it when it’s done. I typically spend one day getting the trees and large items in place and then a day adding ornaments and decoration. The first day is work, the second day is fun for me. A fire in the fireplace, a cup of hot chocolate and a Hallmark Christmas special or Christmas music is usually enough to get me motivated. Ask for help with the big stuff! Entertaining is fun once the work is done. Most of us spend a lot of special time with family during the holidays, so offer to host the meal and fix the main course, while asking your guests to bring a side dish or a dessert. Your house doesn’t have to be perfectly clean for the gathering. Focus on the rooms that will get the most action, and give the rest a quick, lived in, once-over. When cleaning is too daunting, hire some help. If clutter is what you struggle with, hide it under the bed! Don’t judge me for that last tip. Organization is not my strong suit, but resourcefulness is! So this year, instead of the bah humbug attitude made famous by Ebenezer Scrooge, seize the season! Dive in head first and don’t hold back. Make your least favorite parts of the season short and sweet and concentrate on the holiday traditions you love. Here’s wishing all of you a Very Merry Christmas! Let the season begin!!!

IREDELL LIVING â&#x20AC;¢ DECEMBER 2016

LIVI NG

cover story

Photos:

On the cover and pictured–

Martin L. Blue, M.D., Plastic Surgeon–You will always find Dr. Blue welcoming patients to his practice with his infectious smile! Opposite page–Dr. Blue and his team–Clockwise–Dr. Blue, Hana Petrea, Zorah Reynolds, Steven Navarro, Rachel Broach, and Kabo Moua (Not pictured: Taylor Braymer, Kaitlin Burke and Ashley Abernethy) 12

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& M I R A G E M E D I S PA

Every day confidence you've only dreamt of...

By Kristie Darling | Photos by Shane Greene Photography

“I have to tell you, Dr. Blue is an amazing surgeon with the very best bedside manner I’ve ever experienced,” Danielle Dugger told me. “I have experience working with doctors in a hospital setting, and not all doctors treat their patients as wonderfully as he does. During recovery, he answered my calls personally, and even called me on a Saturday afternoon to see how I was doing. I had breast reduction surgery, because the

pain in my back, shoulders, and arms was unrelenting. I’d spent thousands over time trying to find out what was causing this pain, and not until I saw Dr. Blue, who recommended the reduction, did I get relief. I also had a tummy tuck and liposuction. My self-esteem is back, without a doubt. He changed my life. I wouldn’t hesitate to send Mom to see him; he’s very comforting, friendly, and caring.” IREDELL LIVING • DECEMBER 2016

A PROFESSIONAL, FRIENDLY TEAM Walk through the doors of Blue Plastic Surgery and Mirage Medi Spa and you enter a sunlight filled, relaxing office. You’ll be greeted by administrative assistants Zorah Reynolds and Rachel Broach. The entire staff works hard to help you feel welcomed, answer all your questions, and make your visit pleasant, and run on time. Office manager and aesthetician Kabo Moua immediately helped me get comfortable. Others on Dr. Blue’s staff include licensed massage and bodywork therapists Taylor Braymer, Steven Navarro and Ashley Abernathy; and aestheticians Hana Petrea and Kaitlin Burke. Everyone focuses on providing top quality service and quality patient care in all they do. “Most of what I do is cosmetic surgery,” Dr. Martin Blue explained. His goal is to help you become your very best by helping you build confidence in yourself, your appearance, and your health. “It is critically important to me that I establish a trusting bond with my patients so that I fully understand her concerns and what she wants to achieve. My patients also need to completely understand what is possible and what is not,” Dr. Blue continued. “I need us both to know the reason–the important ‘why?’–you have come to me for surgery. If someone is doing this for the wrong reasons, perhaps for their boyfriend or others, I make a point to continue the conversation so they understand the reasons why they should focus on pleasing themselves. A patient’s expectations are critical. We need to see eye-to-eye.” A consultation with an experienced provider about your health and beauty goals is priceless. AFTER THE CONSULTATION Once goals, expectations, details, and concerns are understood, Dr. Blue develops a recommended treatment plan that might include cosmetic and/or reconstructive surgery, as well as aesthetic skin and body care services.

Photos, top to bottom:

• Kabo Moua, office manager and aesthetician, and Hana Petrea, lead aesthetician–Healthy skin is their specialty. • Administrative assistant Zorah Reynolds works hard to make sure your needs are met. • Steven Navarro, LMBT, has over 12 years of experience in massage and bodywork therapy. Steven specializes in deep tissue massage. 14

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“We have a broad range of treatments–beauty enhancing cosmetic surgeries, critical reconstructive surgeries, and refreshing skin and body care treatments–from the top of the head to the feet,” Dr. Blue said. “Starting at the top, we can improve the appearance of your face and neck with facial surgery, such as for drooping eyelids; a nose job, technically called a rhinoplasty; and face and neck lifts. Each procedure helps our patients look and feel their best, regain confidence, and build self-esteem.” Nancy enthusiastically told me, “I am very pleased with my results. I’d moved to Mooresville and called around for a doctor who offered fillers and other facial treatments. Dr. Blue immediately won me over. His personal

concern, professional knowledge, and skill as a surgeon are the reasons I scheduled a consultation and my procedures with him.” Nancy first had injectable treatments that Dr. Blue performs: Botox, to reduce laugh and frown lines, and wrinkles. Then, she and Dr. Blue decided to do one of the three types of Restylane treatments that work very well on wrinkles, fine lines, and pores. “I also got micro-needling (a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure using an Eclipse Micropen) with hyaluronic acid and platelet-rich plasma,” Nancy continued. “I could see immediate results. It improved my skin’s overall appearance–I was amazed! I love how Dr. Blue spends quality time getting to know you; we truly became partners in my treatment.” Dysport is also an injectable proven to help smooth signs of aging, like moderate to severe frown lines on the forehead. It’s a popular treatment for men and women. Dr. Blue can reduce, augment or lift your breasts. A tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin and tightens abdominal muscles. A mommy makeover is for new moms whose breasts would benefit from lifting, augmenting, and improved cleavage and whose tummy needs tightening and stretch marks diminished. Liposuction or lipectomy can be performed after major weight loss and are good choices if you are tired of working out and dieting without seeing the results you want. Body lifts on thighs and buttocks, and buttocks implants improve curves. The best part? Dr. Blue and you will team up to make the right decisions about what you’d like to achieve.

recommendation going forward. Microdermabrasion, PCA peels, and dermaplaning treatments are available with facials. A more youthful, fresh, flattering appearance is always the result. The spa offers professional grade sunscreen, critical in protecting your skin all year ‘round. Massage is helpful for men and women: Swedish, deep tissue, customized facials, and back massage are restorative, especially when you want to rid yourself of stress and sore muscles. You’ll feel great all over. After just one massage, you will discover that your therapist has become your new best friend! GET A CLOSER LOOK To discover how you can improve your looks, slow down the signs of aging, improve your health, and launch a personalized plan to revitalize your appearance and self-confidence, Blue Plastic Surgery Center and Mirage Medi Spa is the place to begin. They offer specials for new patients and monthly specials, as well, that you should ask about. As Dr. Blue told me, “I am very fortunate to have a great, caring team who share my passion about this work, my principles, values, and devotion to our patients’ wellbeing.” I recommend a phone call–your questions will be answered, and it could be the start of something wonderful!

Holiday Specials

Dr. Blue can also reduce the appearance of spider veins and perform hand surgery, often to repair trigger finger or Dupuytren’s contracture, both conditions that cause finger deformities.

Botox $9.99 a unit (minimum of 20 units)

A PROFESSIONAL TEAM “I love living and practicing here in Mooresville, helping patients look and feel their best. We’ve been here 10 years, and our patients come from all walks of life, all cultures. They are served by our professional and diverse staff who care for our patients with impeccable, compassionate care every day.” I was impressed that Dr. Blue offers translation services, 20 plus different languages, whenever needed. The practice sees about 95% women, of all ages, and men are always welcomed for any service.

Restylane-L, Restylane Lyft and Restylane Silk $50 off 1mL syringe $125 off 2–1mL syringes

YOUR SPA OF CHOICE Mirage Medi Spa’s guiding principle is, “The best you… ever!” The menu of services is extensive. You will enjoy your experience and be especially pleased with the results. Skin care services include a selection of facials for teens and adults designed to suit your goals and needs. After a thorough skin analysis, your aesthetician will determine her professional

Dysport $3.99 a unit $50 off (minimum of 50 units) $75 off (minimum of 100 units)

Facial with Microdermabrasion, PCA Skin Peel or Dermaplaning–$75 Buy One Get One 1/2 Off! MicroNeedling Treatment with Hyaluronic Acid $200 MicroNeedling Treatment with PRP $300 Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage–60 Min $55 • 90 Min $85

GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! Blue Plastic Surgery Center & Mirage Medi Spa 134 Professional Park Dr., Ste. 200 • Mooresville 704.235.6610 www.BluePlasticSurgery.com Like Us On Facebook! IREDELL LIVING • DECEMBER 2016

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Photos:

Left–Langtree Catering and Events and SoLuna Café is located at 331 Alcove Road, Suite 101, in Mooresville. Opposite page–Langtree Catering focuses on great food, wonderful service and creative presentation. One without the other is less than excellent!

CATERING & EVENTS

Healthy Food, Beautiful Presentation and Top-Notch Service By Meredith Collins | Photos Provided By Langtree Catering

As a US Army Veteran (Military Police Ranger), Sous Chef Alexander learned a lot about logistics. His career change to the catering business was unplanned and unpredicted, but it’s off to a successful start. “I started catering by accident, trying to help a friend on a commercial charter boat on Lake Norman,” Alexander said. “But within the first two weeks, I had people calling me, and they booked five events. I did 40 events in four months.” Alexander launched Langtree Catering & Events last February and started planning 18

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Performance Instruction & Training (PIT) Center, The Heritage House, and many more. Whether it’s a small, informal event or a fancy dinner, Langtree Catering & Events can meet your needs. They cater for corporate events, weddings, private events, and small meetings.

the up-fit construction of his new catering kitchen and showroom called SoLuna Café & Bakery and Wine & Dessert Bar. SoLuna is located on Alcove Road, in the Langtree North building at the entrance to Langtree Charter Academy & Shumaker Homes Design Studio & Model Homes.

“Whatever the event, it’s always about three things: the presentation, the food, and the service,” Alexander said. “That’s our mantra. People see our food with their eyes first, then smell the food, and then the taste is the trifecta of what we do. But without the excellent service, it’s just food!”

The catering and events side is a full-service catering company providing catering and event planning services to premier event locations. They cater at popular event locations including Langtree Plantation, Charles Mack Citizen Center, The

When the catering showroom opens, it will include Langtree Café & Bakery that is open Monday to Friday from 7 am to 5 pm, and SoLuna Wine & Dessert Bar open on Friday and Saturday nights from 5 pm to 10 pm. After-hour

catering and private events will stay open until 2 am. On Friday and Saturday evenings, Alexander opens the wine and dessert bar until 2 am to provide a private venue for wedding after parties and other events. Alexander attributes a lot of the business’ success to those around him. “It’s about those people that I’ve surrounded myself with in the food business,” Alexander said.

The culinary team includes Chef Tim Schafer, Executive Chef Nate, and Chef Andrew. “Our chefs are very well known,” Alexander said. “We all collaborate together to perfect our dishes.” Another mantra Alexander builds his business on is “changing people’s lives with food.” Whether that’s making a bride’s wedding day perfect down to the detail of the food or donating to local nonprofits.

Whatever the event’s needs, Langtree Catering & Events can provide delicious food, great presentation, and stellar service. Langtree North Building 331 Alcove Road, Ste #101 • Mooresville Langtree Catering: 704-438-9777 SoLuna Café: 980-215-9531 www.LangtreeCafe.com www.SoLunaLKN.com www.CaterLKN.com Find us on Facebook!

IREDELL LIVING • DECEMBER 2016

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Transitioning to A New Job By Lauren Davidson

don’t burn any bridges, however tempting it may be. Vent to your friends and family about it, but don’t make a scene at work. Many industries have interconnected ties, and even if it’s a long shot that you’ll ever see your old boss again, you want to keep a good reputation of maintaining the utmost professionalism just in case. Keep your reputation intact by putting in a two weeks’ notice and remaining professional and polite. The best revenge is that you’re moving on to greener pastures. Prepare You probably did a lot of research about the company before the interview process, but don’t stop now. Try to find out all that you can about the company’s culture. Is it a casual office where everyone wears jeans, or is it more buttoned up? Knowing ahead of time will help you fit in. It’s also a great idea to brush up on the duties of the job. There are a lot of great online resources on just about any subject. It will help you feel prepared and on top of things from the get-go if you put in a little extra learning time before you start. Even if it’s a lateral move, it won’t hurt to brush up on the basics.

©Digital Vision | Photodisc | Thinkstock

Did you know that many consider the beginning of the year the best time to look for a job? Once everyone returns from holiday breaks and yearly budgets are approved, many companies are in a position to hire more people. If this is a time of transition for you, read on to find out my suggestions on how to make the changeover process go as smoothly as possible. Never Leave On Bad Terms You may be unhappy at your current job, and have a boss or co-workers from you-know-where, but I have found that there is always a chance that you will run into them again somewhere down the road. It’s important that you hold your tongue, and

Make a Great First Impression Since you’ve done some prep work, this won’t be hard. Someone once told me never to pack lunch on your first day, and I think that’s a good piece of advice. You want to make sure you’re open in case your new boss or co-workers want to take you out! This is also a time when you want to look your very best. Take a little extra time getting ready your first week in order to make a really great first impression–after all, you only get one chance to do so. If you dread small talk, come up with some lines you can easily rattle off. Chances are, you will be asked over and over again about your background. The book How to Win Friends and Influence People is a great resource for this. It may seem silly to want your future co-workers to like you right off the bat, but your hard work may not be recognized if people think you are a curmudgeon. Congratulations on scoring a new job! With preparation, hard work, and the support of your future co-workers, you’ll be on top in no time!

IREDELL LIVING • DECEMBER 2016

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What's Cooking?! Holiday Baked Brie

Holiday Baked Brie

Recipe created by Foxes Love Lemons Prep: 10 min. | Cook: 14 min. | Servings: 8

2 tablespoons unsalted butter 8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced kosher salt ground black pepper 1 Brie round (8 ounces) 3 tablespoons honey ¼ cup pomegranate arils ¼ cup shelled pistachios crackers or toasted bread

Directions

Heat oven to 350° F. In large skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms; cook 8-10 minutes, or until deep golden brown, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper; remove from heat. Place Brie on parchment paper-lined rimmed baking pan; drizzle with honey. Transfer to oven and bake 5-7 minutes, or until inside of cheese is softened, but outside remains intact. Transfer Brie to serving platter; top with pomegranate arils, pistachios and mushrooms. Serve immediately with crackers or bread.

Recipe and photo compliments of United Dairy Industry of Michigan • More Recipes at MilkMeansMore.org

IREDELL LIVING • DECEMBER 2016

ecember, 2016 will mark the first full month in over a year that we haven’t been bombarded with overt and/or covert politic speak telling us how close our county is to the proverbial toilet. It got to be so depressing to turn on the television, my wife and I actually began to learn the art of conversation all over again.

A WORD FROM

Economic Recovery In Iredell County

There are indeed issues that our country faces and, as we have for 240 years, we will address them in some fashion. The national economy is in a 78-month recovery from the depths of the 2009 Recession. History will show that the length and depth of recovery bears a spooky resemblance to the depth of the economic recession it follows. The recession we realized during 2008-2010 was deep, dark and stunningly quick. The recovery has not been nearly as quick, but it has stood to build a sturdier foundation. One thing is for sure, another recession will be forthcoming sometime, followed by another recovery…and the cycle continues. We do keep up with several measurements that show how we are faring economically in Iredell County, and the results are pretty compelling. All of the metrics we track show good progress. The two listed below we want to focus on at this point in time: our recovery of these measurements since the recession and how that compares with neighboring counties. Retail Sales–Retail sales is an indicator of the present fiscal health of the community. Folks are more apt to spend a dollar today that they think will be replenished tomorrow. Sales tax collected from retail purchases provides significant support for county and city services. Measurements are from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016.

Sales % Gain since ’11

Iredell County

Catawba County

Rowan County

$2,100,000,000

$2,110,000,000

$1,170,000,000

36.3%

23.4%

26.7%

Job Growth–We recognize that without jobs, our economy sinks. Between 2007 and 2010, Iredell County, and the counties that surround us, lost an average of 11% of the jobs we called ours. Iredell County has recovered extraordinarily well, posting real job growth of 10,637 jobs since August of 2010. Comparatively, our economic recovery is outstanding.

David Bradley President and CEO Greater Statesville Chamber of Commerce

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Jobs in Recession

7,523

6,427

9,537

% Jobs Lost

9.9%

8.9%

14.3%

Jobs Recovered

10,637

4,868

5,738

% Jobs Recovered

141.1%

75.7%

60.1%

So what does tomorrow look like and when is the next dip to be felt? Experts would suggest that we will probably have a slowdown in the coming couple of years, but unless something outrageous happens, the downturn would be short and shallow, followed by a corresponding recovery. What we CAN appreciate is where we are right now and how far we have advanced in just a few years. With impending industrial, commercial, and retail growth that we foresee in the coming months, we expect the roll to continue into mid-2017.

IREDELL LIVING â&#x20AC;¢ DECEMBER 2016

Photo by Captain Gus

T A WORD FROM

2017 Celebrate Business Luncheon and Community Excellence Awards

he MSI Chamber of Commerce proudly announces that our 2017 Celebrate Business Luncheon and Community Excellence Awards will be on Tuesday, January 24 at The Cove Church in Mooresville. This is a signature event of the Chamber, when we celebrate our Chamber, our community, and our community champions. The event is always a sellout, and you do not want to miss it. We are pleased to announce this year’s keynote speaker, Mooresville’s own, John J. Mack. He is a senior advisor and former chief executive officer of Morgan Stanley, the New York based investment bank and brokerage firm. Prior to his career with Morgan Stanley, Mr. Mack worked for several firms around Wall Street. He began his career at Morgan Stanley in 1972 as a salesperson in the firm’s taxable fixed-income division. In 1997, Mr. Mack served as president and chief operating officer of Morgan Stanley Dean Witter & Co. In 2001, he was hired as CEO of Credit Suisse. In 2005, he returned to Morgan Stanley as CEO and chairman of the board. Mr. Mack was committed to turning the company around. He ingeniously put the right people in place to return Morgan Stanley to profitability and a leading position in the marketplace. Because of his cost-cutting prowess, Mr. Mack respectfully earned the nickname, Mack the Knife.

Kirk Ballard President and CEO Mooresville - South Iredell Chamber of Commerce 30

IREDELL IREDELL LIVING LIVING •• DECEMBER DECEMBER 2016 2016

Although Mr. Mack was known for his toughness, he also had a reputation for being charming, compassionate, and caring. Many noted his ability to listen and relate to others. In 2011, after more than 30 years as an investment banker,

Mr. Mack retired from Morgan Stanley. In 2012, he joined Kohlberg Kravis Roberts as senior advisor. Born on November 17, 1944 in Mooresville, Mr. Mack is the youngest of six sons. The Mack family immigrated to Ellis Island from Lebanon at the turn of the 19th century. His parents, Alice and Charles Mack, were well known in Mooresville for their wholesale grocery, clothing, and general merchandise store, John Mack & Sons. In 2001, the family contributed $4.5 million to renovate the Mooresville Citizen Center. The building was later renamed after his father. Today the Charles Mack Citizen Center is a centerpiece of downtown Mooresville. A gifted athlete, Mr. Mack attended Duke University on a football scholarship. He graduated in 1968 with a B.A. in History. Mr. Mack learned the importance of hard work from his parents. This was an enduring quality that would remain with him throughout his career. Mr. Mack is married to Christy Rose. Together, they founded the Christy and John Mack Foundation, a charitable organization in Rye, New York. Their organization gives primarily to hospitals, education, and the arts, including a public television station. They have three children, John, Stephen, and Jenna. We look forward to welcoming Mr. Mack as our keynote speaker at the upcoming luncheon. We are now taking reservations for the 2017 Celebrate Business Luncheon and Community Excellence Awards. This is a fabulous event for networking, supporting, and celebrating the MSI Chamber of Commerce and our wonderful members! Contact the chamber office at 704-6643898 to make your reservation today!

IREDELL LIVING â&#x20AC;¢ DECEMBER 2016