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cover story
Diamonds Direct It’s a retail formula that works for cars and groceries, but you don’t associate it with diamonds. Yet one Charlotte jeweler has set itself apart with high volume and low margin. Such sparkling success results from adhering to the formula, according to Itay Berger. “We focus on being a diamond powerhouse and on what we do best, the bridal business.”
10
Watson Insurance Founder Thomas Craig Watson was a true believer in education, training and promoting from within; now his second and third generations are carrying forth the legacy. Since 1934, Watson Insurance has set a standard of vision, value and service.
16
Brackett Company Rather than resign herself to what was then a gender-specific role, Diane Brackett Rivers decided to forge her own way. Since 1985, her company has developed nearly 30 projects, focusing on the health care sector of commercial real estate.
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Optima Engineering Keith Pehl relishes in challenges for his company that specializes in electrical, mechanical and plumbing engineering. An adherent of green precepts, the firm promotes photovoltaics, solar thermal and other sustainable technologies proven, but not widespread.
october 2008
32 bizlife
departments publisher’spost
4
bizXperts Smart Salvos, Select Strategies and Succinct Solutions
6
employersbiz Legislative and Regulatory Highlights for Area Employers
8
bizlife Pursuing a Balance of Business and Life
32
biznetwork
37
ontop
38
on the cover:
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Brackett Company
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Optima Engineering
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Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region
october 2008
Itay Berger Vice President Charlotte Operations Diamonds Direct SouthPark
Hospice & Palliative Care Hospice celebrates 30 years of providing compassionate care for people in the last phases of incurable disease so that they may live as fully and comfortably as possible. Ranking in size in the top two percent in the country, it is a national leader in the field.
Watson Insurance
Itay Berger Vice President - Charlotte Operations Diamonds Direct SouthPark
DIAMONDS DIRECT FACETS THEIR MARKET
Photography by Wayne Morris
www. grea tercha rl ot tebiz .c om