Man and Woman of the Year honored
Life mirrors TV at crime scene cleanup firm It’s cookie time for Girl Scouts
Weddings in Union
Venues, proposals, catering and more!
February - April 2015 www.UnionLifestyle.com
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Union Lifestyle PO Box 1064 Monroe, NC 28111-1064
UNION
Lifestyle
5
Editor
Away From Public View
Nancy E. Stephen
Contributing Writers
Finding balance keeps teacher on toes
Photographer
Man and Woman of the Year
Sheila Penegar
6
Loyd Pennington
Nancy E. Stephen
Volunteers honored for ongoing efforts
Union Lifestyle
10
A publication of Cameo Communications, LLC PO Box 1064 Monroe, NC 28111-1064 (704) 753-9288 www.UnionLifestyle.com
23
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On the cover
Sun Valley Middle School Principal Vicki Merritt shares a laugh with seventh grader Stephanie Falcone. Photo by Nancy E. Stephen
8
Crime scene cleanup
True love a second time around is just as sweet.
Principal’s Love
Dedication shines through in every way
11
Old AND Stupid
I’m not smarter than an 8th grader
12
Weddings in Union 12 - Venues
13 - Event planners 16 - She said “I do!”
19 - Reception food
20 - 63-year-marriage
28
Hwy. 55 a ‘50s kind of place
22 - Make it legal
24
It’s cookie time!
Girl Scout cookies hit Union County
26
Life Lessons
Take charge, Monday’s coming!
30
Event Calendar
Lots to do in Union
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 3
T
20 years later, the steeplechase still is a grand party that horses attend wenty years ago, Bill Price contacted Hospice of Union County – where I was working in marketing and fundraising – about an event he was planning. Bill was nothing if not enthusiastic. He almost burst into song as he talked about creating the Charlotte Steeplechase to benefit area non-profit organizations. I have to admit, I thought he might be a lunatic. His ideas were grandiose. His eyes widened and he waved his arms around as he described the course, the races, the “amazing” opportunities for socialization, the benefits to Union County, and to the whole state, for that matter. Uh huh. His point was that his up and coming steeplechase could benefit Hospice if we agreed to handle the volunteer aspect of the event. Uh huh, again. Obviously this decision was out of my hands since the project landed in my lap. Had I been to a steeplechase before, Bill asked. Actually, I had. Was I a horse aficionado? Not so much. My favorite part of my first steeplechase was making up my own over-the-top names for horses. Fast forward a few months. Bill, his wife Carrington and I were fully in the throes of the first steeplechase. We needed 400 volunteers, I remember. Where were we/1 going to get them? I wondered. Actually. it was easy. A little bit of press about the event and the volunteers who would earn free entry into the race sent us off and running. We wrote job descriptions for jobs I’d never heard of and held a volunteer seminar to talk about the event, the jobs, responsibilities and perks of being a volunteer. And then, there we were. Out standing in a field as hundreds of cars poured into the parking lot, spilling forth their dressed-to-the-nines occupants who set up sterling silver tailgates, donned their exquisite
4 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
hats and settled down for an afternoon of races. Bill describes a steeplechase as a fabulous garden party where horses occasionally run past. He isn’t kidding. And he is right. He also calls it 25 minutes of sport and eight hours of socializing. Someone else once said, “I went to cocktail party and a horse race broke out.” The first year was difficult, and I didn’t have the opportunity to see any of the races. But as the years moved on, great volunteers returned year after year. Bill says some of the first volunteers are still there, manning their same post. Fast forward 20 years, and here we are, about to celebrate the 20th Queen’s Cup Steeplechase. In the past years, the non-profit association has donated $640,000 to not only Hospice, but also Multiple Sclerosis, Thompsons Children Home, Make A Wish, Catawba Land Conservancy, Purple Heart Homes and currently the Alzheimer’s Association. Race day continues to draw huge crowds, ranging upwards of 17,000. “If we get to the 15,000 to 17,000 range, that’s sold out. When you get it too big, your needs to handle the crowd become outrageous,” Bill said recently. Ticket sales have been good for this year’s race – April 25 – always the last Saturday in April. Hospitality tents and the Clubhouse Turn location are sold out, but plenty of inexpensive tailgate spots and topof-the-line catered party locations are available. If you haven’t been to the ’chase before, it’s an experience you should enjoy at least once. Who knows, you may love it! Visit www.QueensCup.org for details about the event and purchasing tickets. Editor@UnionLifestyle.com
Finding balance in life keeps honored teacher on her toes
Away from public view
Jennifer Whitley, Union County’s Teacher of the Year and North Carolina’s Regional Teacher of the Year, lives and breathes Forest Hills High School and its Yellow Jackets. But she works to balance her teaching career with her family life and with missions work in Uganda. Childhood ambition: I wanted to be a lawyer because I love government and polities. As a high school junior, I shadowed at a law firm in Monroe and realized that so many hours away from my family wasn’t something I wanted to do. As a teacher, I’m able to incorporate my family into my life better. My husband, Chad, is wrestling coach at Forest Hills and both of my children are here. Guilty pleasure: I love reading historical fiction while on the deck at Lake Tillery. I’m a lake girl. And I love to read. Guilty splurge: Traveling. My husband and I have been fortunate to travel through our missions. I’ve been to nine countries, but not in typical tourist fashion. We backpacked in Costa Rica, and we have our own mud hut in Uganda (where the couple spends time working through their non-profit missions foundation, Hearts United, Inc.) My dream splurge is to hike Macchu Pichu in Peru. Challenge: Balancing family and the responsibility of being a teacher. My personality makes me want to be there for everyone who needs me. I have to remember that my first responsibility is my family; my school family is second. Most people also struggle with that. I truly want to do everything I can to help the students I come into contact with. Lemons to lemonade story: Years ago, my husband and I were going to be international missionaries, but family reasons stopped us from going when we planned. My opportunity to experience Africa and Nigeria and to meet with the people was gone. But a door opened to Uganda. Within six weeks, we had a different plan, different country, different things to do. So we went there and fell in love with the people of the community. Hero: My dad, Earl Griffin, who was killed in a train accident when I was in college. He taught me the value of giving. I’m constantly reminded of his impact on the community, his self sacrifice. In spite of losing him at such an early age, I learned so much from him. He had a love of family, God and country. He was the kind of parent that my husband and I try to be. Most overused expression: “It’s all good.” I say that to remind me how great life is. You have to learn to roll with the punches and dodge the curveballs that are life.
Q
Man, Woman of the Year uiet. Hard-working. Dedicated.
These adjectives aptly describe Union County’s 2013 Man and Woman of the Year. But so do efficient, effective and energetic.
Margaret Pigg has volunteered for decades – more than five – for Union Memorial Hospital, which became Union Regional Medical Center and now CMC-Union, which is part of the Carolinas Medical Center system. “Margaret works at the hospital each week as well as leads groups in knitting caps for newborns and cancer patients,” says Carole Williams, who nominated her friend.
phone to first her church family, then to other retirees who could work one day a month when – not if – the museum became reality. “I just like doing things for people; I always have. It’s a good feeling to think you’re doing something to help somebody,” Margaret says. When told by last year’s Woman of the Year, Joyce Rentschler that she was the 2014 winner, Margaret was stunned. “I’m sure there were a lot of people who have done more than I have,” she said.
“She’s giving more than 55 years of her life to others in Union County in many ways,” Carole says. “Margaret is not a clock watcher. She is there for every tick. She leads by doing, not preaching, and others follow by doing.”
Margaret began volunteering on Wednesday mornings at the hospital in 1968 or 1969 and has logged an impressive 6,000 hours there, says Jane Bess, manager of volunteer services. Currently, she volunteers in the endoscopy department, helping staff with office duties, always with her sweet smile and kind voice.
“Margaret is such an asset to us,” Jane said. “She certainly exemplifies our core values of caring, commitment, teamwork and integrity.”
WSOC-TV recognized Margaret’s volunteerism in 1992 by naming her the county winner in the Nine Who Care volunteer program.
This year’s Man of the Year also is a quiet, behind-the-scenes type of man.
2013 Woman of the Year Joyce Rentschler, right, presents flowers to this year’s winner, Margaret Pigg.
Years ago, after a knitting student described a hospital project elsewhere of knitting caps for newborns, Margaret approached the local hospital, which launched the still-existing program. And Margaret is still knitting for the babies.
David English works hard at his jobs – both as Carolinas Purchasing Manager at Hughes Supply and as a dedicated volunteer for various charitable organizations in the county.
According to Kathy Bragg, executive director of the Union County Community Shelter, David is the epitome of a community volunteer. His service is not limited to one particular area. He is an avid fundraiser for multiple non-profit agencies, as is evident in his special event work with the Shelter, United Way and American Red Cross.
‘. . . she leads by doing’
Throughout her hospital “career,” Margaret has worked behind the scenes on many projects, including the hospital’s former “Evening of Elegance” fundraiser.
Margaret says the opening of the Marshville Museum and Cultural Center in 2011 is a highlight of her volunteerism. “I feel good about the museum – that leaves something for the future.” Currently, third-grade students visit the museum to learn local history that’s not in a textbook. Margaret’s husband, Johnny, also was highly involved in the museum, a role that helped him earn Man of the Year in 2012.
The museum was a struggle, to be sure. Earlier efforts had surged, then foundered. But when someone said the lack of volunteers seemed to be the main problem, Margaret got on the
6 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
David also shares his experience and enthusiasm for helping others through Central United Methodist Church’s Upward program since its inception. All told, he has been a youth basketball coach for 20 years, first with the Monroe City League, then the Piedmont Recreation Association and now Upward basketball. He has been a coach and referee and, for the past five years, served as the commissioner of Upward basketball. As a Monroe Jaycee, he co-chaired the Main Street Live concert series, now managed by the City of Monroe, and the organization’s golf tournament for several years. He also served on the United Way’s Community Investment Council and on the board of the American Red Cross.
honored for volunteerism “David exemplifies the values of a man of the year,” says Sheila Crunkleton, executive director of the local American Red Cross. “He is a doer and a giver.”
David says his role with the United Way allocations committee opened his eyes to not only the needs in the county, but the organizations trying to fill those needs.
The 2012 Man of the Year, Jack Hargett, agrees. “I have had the good fortune of having David English as a close friend for over 40 years. He is always one of the first to step up and volunteer without even being asked. David quietly leads by his example.”
“That was very eye-opening. My experiences with the Shelter and Red Cross also opened my eyes to what the needs are in the community. At some point, it clicked in.
At the Shelter, David chairs the annual golf tournament, helping to grow the proceeds from $14,000 to $40,000 a year while remembering that the tournament’s focus is to fund meaningful services for our area’s homeless and hungry population.
‘. . . he is a doer and a giver’
“If you have roots in community, you have an obligation to serve.”
Shelter Executive Director Kathy
David’s volunteering spirit earned “I cannot express the value of the contributions David has Bragg nominated David English for him the 2014 Governor's made as a champion for the homeless and hungry,” Kathy the Man of the Year award. Medallion Award for Volunteer Bragg says. “His business acumen coupled with his passion Service, both for the county and for the state. David is married to to help others is the perfect recipe for an impactful board Susan Radford. member.”
Previous Men of the Year
1958 - Dr. Paul J. Helms* 1959 - Jack R. Hargett* 1960 - Charles L. Hunley* 1961 - Budd E. Smith* 1962 - J.C. Plyler* 1963 - W. Leslie Starnes* 1964 - Vann V. Secrest* 1965 - E.D. Gaskins* 1966 - N.K. Dickerson* 1967 - James R. Huntley* 1968 - Wayne Mangum* 1969 - Edward Faulkner* 1970 - Lester L. Helms* 1971 - Aaron W. Plyler 1972 - Thomas P. Dillon 1973 - C. Frank Griffin 1974 - S. Oren Starnes* 1975 - Charles Norwood 1976 - V.T. Helms, Jr.*
1977 - H.R. Johnson* 1978 - Harold Shirley* 1979 - Harry Sherwood* 1980 - Nat Greene 1981 - Jim Wellborn* 1982 - Charles Sturgis 1983 - Harry Myers 1984 - Fred Long 1985 - James E. Hinkle* 1986 - John B. Ashcraft, Jr. 1987 - Robert Fleetwood* 1988 - Glenn Youngblood* 1989 - Woody Faulk 1990 - Fred McCallum* 1991 - Tom Caldwell 1992 - Jack Fowler 1993 - Tom Batchelor* 1994 - Carroll Edwards* 1995 - Frank McGuirt
1996 - Bobby Kilgore 1997 - Bruce Griffin, Sr.* 1998 - Henry Gaye 1999 - Max Melton 2000 - Frank Carpenter 2001 - Phil Bazemore 2002 - Tom Williams 2003 - Lynn Keziah 2004 - Lynn Raye 2005 - Phil Hargett* 2006 - Jerry Thomas 2007 - Ed Bower, MD 2008 - Bobby Griffin 2009 - I. F. Plyler* 2010 - Bill Norwood 2011 - Jack Hargett 2012 – Johnny Pigg 2013 - Clark Goodwin* *Deceased
Previous Women of the Year
1985 - Ruth Sikes Haigler*
2000 - Lynda Keziah
1987 - Fola Williams*
2002 - Ruby Stegall
1986 - Sis Dillon
1988 - Carolyn Gaddy* 1989 - Dot Greene
2001 - Sandy Deskins 2003 - Carol Tyson
2004 - Suzy Rogers
1990 - Georgia McGuirt*
2005 - Angela Bower
1992 - Vivian Norwood*
2007 - Modene Howie
1991 - Lane Drew*
1993 - Sally Ormand 1994 - Sara Furr
1995 - Jeanette Sherrod
2006 - Virginia Bjorlin
2008 - Gwendolyn Perkins, MD
2009 - Emmy Lou Haywood*
2010 - Nancy E. Stephen
1996 - Doris Sparks*
2011 - Pat Kahle
1998 - Nancy A. Noles
2013 - Joyce Rentschler
1997 - Evermond Daniel* 1999 - Lynne Salvaggio
2012 - Martha Allen
*Deceased
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 7
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(Editor’s Note: This story contains descriptions that might be disturbing to some readers.) hen he’s not sitting behind a desk creating customized software for banks, Jeff Darr works a different job that’s right out of television.
He cleans up crime scenes – some of them as nasty as those on CSI or NCIS.
He and his company, Crime Scene Services, rehabilitate crime scenes, death scenes, plane crashes, meth labs and more, returning the property to usability. It’s an odd mix – banking and crime scenes – but Jeff navigates both with aplomb, even throwing in sports officiating as another “career.”
Jeff learned about the messy situations funeral directors sometimes encounter when removing a body. What does the family do with the building? he questioned a friend in the business.
He quickly learned that there “really weren’t many companies whose business is to remedy the situation. Families were trying to do the work themselves, without realizing that common household chemicals and equipment couldn’t do an effective job, leaving a potentially hazardous situation.”
Jeff’s calm, compassionate demeanor is definitely an asset in this line of work. Family members often are distraught and really don’t know what to do. He tells them to leave everything to him, that he’ll return the home, car or office to a sanitary condition.
Death, traumatic injury or hazardous contamination are events that no one expects to happen to them, and the lingering problems that can arise from these events are very difficult for most people to cope with.
“We want to help families get their lives back to normal. We can’t change the situation, but we can make it better.”
Life mirrors TV at crime scene cleanup firm Text & Photos by Nancy E. Stephen
“I try to use compassion with the family,” he states, recalling many Saturday phone calls after midnight about a violent death. “I want to go as soon as possible. “I know what the family is going through,” he says. “I don’t mind staying up all night, but it’s hard on them.
“Most situations are tragic. We want to get in, do our work and get out as quickly as possible so that families don’t have to face the physical situation very long.” Since property owners typically don’t know who to turn to, Jeff ensures that police and rescue agencies in North and
South Carolina know about his business, so they can refer families. “Once they know you do nasty, you get the nasty.”
Interior rehabilitation is more difficult than most might imagine. Depending on the situation, interior walls might simply be cleaned with a professional chemical, although some finishes don’t clean easily and require refinishing. Carpeting often must be removed because fluids can seep through to the lower floor, creating an ongoing dangerous health situation. In 15 years, Jeff has rehabilitated approximately 1,000 sites. “Most take a
day or so; meth labs take longer.”
Most meth labs are housed in rental property, which must be professionally cleaned. “Whoever owns the property is responsible for paying. It can’t be sold; sometimes it just sits. It can’t be occupied until it’s professionally cleaned.”
With meth labs, the state dismantles the lab itself, leaving an empty house with just the residue. “We go in and test for ‘hot areas,’ then use chemical spray that reduces toxins to traces, then wash it down. We have to remove the carpet and wash the hard areas.” Because residue is still present, the crew wears respirators and suits “which are very hot. We wear boots, gloves and eye protection as well as full-body suits.” Jeff rehabilitated a mobile home where an elderly person died with 24 cats, and the scene wasn’t noticed for more than a week. He’s also worked in hoarding situations where mentally ill residents piled possessions to the ceiling, reducing
their walking paths to a minimum and attracting rodents. Jeff’s heart has been tugged many times when he reached a scene. He remembers a woman who had been sexually assaulted in her home. “She had tried to clean it herself, doing loads of laundry which wouldn’t get the fingerprint dust out. You can’t just wipe surfaces down either,” he says. “That situation really affected me.”
After a fatal plan crash in a Charlotte residential area four years ago, Jeff’s team was on the scene for seven or eight days, cleaning the exteriors of houses and cars. Most calls follow deaths, but Jeff frequently fields calls at foreclosed houses and apartment complexes that need his services because “they’re simply nasty.
“People will trash the property when they know they’re being evicted or their vehicle is being repossessed.”
Principal’s love of education shines through in every way, every day
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Text by Nancy E. Stephen
icki Merritt loves, loves, loves her role as principal of Sun Valley Middle School. It’s obvious; she doesn’t have to tell you.
From the moment she drops her son off at elementary school down the street, she’s focused on her school, her students. I shadowed Vicki recently to see just what a principal does during the day. Of course, I had some preconceived ideas – a lot of paperwork, phone calls from irritated parents, more paperwork, more calls, etc.
That’s not at all how it went.
In her first minutes, Vicki encountered a young boy sitting in the assistant principal’s office and sobbing.
“What’s wrong?” she asked.
The boy blurted out that he had looked at a girl’s paper during a test, had been caught and sent to the assistant principal’s office. He knew he was wrong, but was terrified that he would receive a zero on the test.
Union County WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
Friday, March 20
Are You On The Bus? Rules for the ride of your life.
Moderator Martha Allen Vibrant Coaching Featured Speakers
Carol Lovin Lisa Carroll-Barnett Nicole Greer 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Union County Agricultural Services & Conference Center 3230 Presson Road, Monroe, NC 28112 $35 fee includes continental breakfast, program & lunch.
Buy tickets by March 10 at www.ucwomenscoalition.com.
(704) 619-4770
10 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
It was obvious that he wanted her to say “Everything will be OK,” but she didn’t.
She asked: “What lesson did you learn?” And he gave the appropriate response, plus “Am I going to get a zero?”
Vicki told him he’d have to wait for the assistant principal. My heart broke.
A few minutes later, a seventh-grade female basketball player was crying because the team had lost its first game the night before.
“I don’t know what to do anymore,” she said.
“Let’s get a life game plan,” Vicki suggested. “You’re not in this by yourself; we’re going to figure this out.”
Editor Nancy Stephen, left, shadowed Sun Valley Middle Principal Vicki Merritt for a day.
“We have a lot of hormonal issues in these ages,” she later explained.
Those two scenarios set the tone for Vicki’s day as principal. “I like to spend my time out in the halls, visiting classrooms, greeting the students – my students.” And that’s what she did while school was in session.
A few phone calls – she needed to offer a teaching position to someone outside the county; a parent called questioning a teacher’s decision – but primarily, she was out and about.
When do you do the paperwork? I asked. “Later” was the response.
Vicki is extremely organized, with folders aligned just so on her desk, signifying what is most important for the day. She had to review two teacher’s performances during classroom visits, when she sat unobtrusively in the back. The teachers didn’t appear to be concerned, but went on with their lesson plans.
Lunch was in the cafeteria, then it was back to the halls. Her energy never flagged during the day; neither did her smile. She had time for every student who needed time and encouragement and accolades for the teachers. “I’ve got the best school,” she said beaming.
As I left the school, I couldn’t help but think, “She has hours of paperwork ahead of her.” Or was there another ball game that night? “I always get it done,” Vicki said. “Always.”
I
I am
NOT
smarter than an eighth grader
like to think of myself as a reasonably intelligent person. Blonde, not stupid, I say sometimes.
But in shadowing Vicki Merritt, principal at Sun Valley Middle School, for the BizEd program of the Union County Education Foundation, boy, did I get an education. The first thing I learned is that I’m old – really, really old. I am half a century older than the sixth grade students there. Five decades. 50 years. OMG! as they would say. The second thing I learned is that Sun Valley Middle has an awesome program of education. Students there are developing skills that I didn’t learn in high school, much less middle school. The third thing I learned is that I am sooooooo not smarter than an eighth
grader. Ouch! That hurts. In an eighth-grade science class, I knew instantly that I could not pass the class since even the terminology was foreign. The teacher asked the difference between eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Hands were waving in the air by students who knew. I’d never heard of the words, not even in college biology, and I’ll bet most of you are as clueless as I was. Not only did the students know, but they responded enthusiastically to their teacher. And not just for that question, but throughout the entire class. They were involved; they were excited. They were amazing. And so was the teacher. She had them. I was lost. Most of the education processes and technology being used at Sun Valley Middle were unheard of in my era, and I’m certain that today’s students are receiving a much broader and deeper education than I did. Teachers are using the power of personal computers, Internet and even science videos to modern rap music to keep the students’ attention. And it’s working. The newer methods and creative programming by individual teachers are giving our county’s students a solid basis for success. A language arts class was learning to write a research paper, complete with appropriate citations of credit. That’s certainly not something I learned at that age. Yet another class took a quick and dirty personality test to learn not only about their personality type and its strengths and
weaknesses, but how different personality traits are needed for effective progress. The next step would place students in groups with varied personalities to work collaborately on a project. These students are 12 or 13 years old. And what they’re learning in the personality study is something the Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Union class of professionals also studies. That’s the advanced education our students are getting. We continue to hear about problems in education – not restricted to Union County, but across the nation – and of course, about low salaries. And no doubt there are problems or concerns, just like there are in most businesses. But my biggest takeaway from my school visit is that our county’s education system is anything but broken. Yes, we have money woes. Yes, we have crowded schools. And I’m certain there are other issues. But you know what else we have? We have teachers, aides and administrators who are enthusiastic about teaching and passionate about their careers. Everyone I talked to or heard during class was amazing. They are energetic, creative, solid in their skills – they’re good teachers. And our children are reaping the rewards.
is proud to announce that Union County native Dana Lehnhardt has joined the firm.
Dana has more than 15 years of family law experience to share with our clients. l UNC-Charlotte
graduate with double majors in political science and psychology. l Juris Doctor degree from UNC-Chapel Hill. l Board Certified Family Law Specialists. l Certified Family Financial Mediator. l Member, North Carolina Bar Association. l Member, Union County Bar Association.
Protecting Your Family, Preserving Your Future 112 N. Main Street, Monroe 15720 Brixham Hill Ave., Charlotte (704) 289-3250 www.CollinsFamilyLaw.com
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 11
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here’s no such thing as a typical wedding anymore. In today’s world, non-traditional weddings are the norm.
Brides wear colors; headpieces may be feathers. The best man might be a woman, and the bride and groom may be the same sex.The wedding itself might well not be in a church or at the bride’s home. And while receptions in a church’s adjacent fellowship hall were the norm a few decades past, today’s receptions are anywhere!
Non-church weddings are highly popular in Union County and can range from a barn wedding complete with cowboy boots, bandanas and Moon Pies to a sophisticated wedding featuring antique chandeliers, crystal, glitz and glamour. New venues pop up regularly, with repurposed barns, warehouses and glamorous homes providing builtin themes.
Venues are scattered across the county, and many provide acres of beautifully landscaped yard to
provide an expansive backdrop, complete with lakes and ponds and sometimes even swans.
Gazebos are popular for the ceremony itself, especially in spring when wisteria and other early bloomers offer their natural – and free – ambiance. There’s something curiously elegant about rows of white chairs lined up on pristine grass facing the ceremonial couple.The gazebo itself offers a classic frame in wedding photographs, too.
Indoor/outdoor weddings are also popular locally, with a growing number of venues offering a formal hall that opens into a tented banquet hall that further spills onto European-styled patios and landscaped grounds perfect for wedding-day photographs. In essence, today’s bride can find just about any style of venue that fits her dream of the perfect wedding in Union County.
You don’t have to plan your wedding alone Wedding planners can save you time, money and heartache
Y
our wedding day is a precious event that should be treated with the kid glove care that it – and you – deserve. It’s a special day for you and your soon-to-be spouse to share with your friends and family. You should be happy, carefree, rested and ready to enjoy your beautiful day. You don’t want to be pre-occupied – or worse, occupied – with wedding day details, which is why a wedding planner can be helpful. She’ll ensure that everything is well organized, which frees you to simply enjoy the day.
You want to avoid wedding day mishaps that could tarnish the experience and memory for you, your family and friends. Your memories should be of everything that went perfectly, exactly the way you wanted. A professional wedding planner’s role is to pay meticulous attention to every detail, ensuring that every aspect of your ceremony and reception run smoothly.
Brides often see planners only as an additional expense without realizing the professional actually can save them money. Because your planner knows the wedding business expertly, she will ensure that you have everything needed for your event without overpurchasing or spending money on items you don’t really need. And she has extensive contacts which allow her to negotiate the best prices for your vendored services, potentially saving you even more money. Before you eliminate the possibility of a wedding planner due to cost, remember that planners often offer different types of services with distinctly different levels of cost.
t Wedding day coordination - “Day-of” specialists help plan the actual ceremony, lead the rehearsal, coordinate the wedding day and assist other vendors during the actual wedding and reception.
t Full wedding coordination - These professionals work with you from day one, helping you to identify your wants and needs, creating a budget, planning and styling the events, creating checklists, identifying and hiring wedding service providers, coordination of wedding day services and creating a back-up plan in the case of inclement weather for an outdoor wedding.
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 13
Some brides accept the aid of a family friend or relative to act as wedding planner. This gesture is kind and easy to accept, but before you do, consider the potential pitfalls as well as the benefits. While their event planning skills may be fine and the price minimal or free, familial closeness can sometimes create problems. When your planner is professional hired help, it’s easier to detail what you want for your wedding. And to say ‘no, I’d like something else.’
Because this is their full-time job, wedding planners have seen perfect weddings and those less than perfect, and they are skilled at avoiding the imperfect.
When it’s your aunt or childhood friend helping, feelings can become bruised all around. You don’t want your friend or aunt to think her good nature and skills are being taken advantage of. And you don’t want to resign yourself to her ideas because you don’t want to hurt her feelings. The last thing you want is for there to be hard feelings that linger after the wedding. It’s your wedding, and you should have what you want.
Save your time for you
A professional wedding planner knows how to create your dream
wedding and reception efficiently, effectively and gorgeously. When you find a planner you trust, you need to step back and let her do the job. She’ll let you know when she needs more information from you or approval of ideas or event items.
Your wedding planner will create a timeline that shows every step of the planning process so you will know what is happening at every point in the process. Having a planner doesn’t mean you’ll be left out of the planning fun or that you can’t check in with a new idea. It simply means that someone else is responsible for the details. Instead of running around in the last days and minutes, trying to solve new issues or problems that popped up, you’ll have time for you and your party.
Use the time your planner has saved you by pampering yourself.
Enjoy your wedding day
On your special day, your role only is to appear rested and happy, and prepared to take your next life step. If a detail needs to be tweaked on the day, your professional planner will handle it quickly and efficiently without you or anyone else knowing of it. And that’s why you want a wedding planner – so you can enjoy your wedding day to the fullest.
James Michael & Co. Make every day sparkle! Stafford Place Executive Offices 1201 Stafford St, Suite A-2 Monroe, NC 28110 14 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
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Mon-Fri 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sat 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. 704.296.5531
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 15
A
By Sheila Penegar
sking your girlfriend to marry you has to be a difficult task for guys. What if she says ‘no?’ Asking her parents for their daughter’s hand in marriage also is stressful. An entirely different set of “what ifs.” We asked seven couples who have been married between 7 and 53 years if their proposal was like those in movies. Just how did marriage proposal occur?
Don and Phyllis McManus
(Pictured at right on their wedding day)
“We have been sweethearts since we were 15 years old and students at Parkwood High School. We were double dating with my best friend and her boyfriend in the late winter of 1966, cruising around Hilltop Drive-In restaurant. “We were in the back seat of a 1956 Ford Crown Victoria when Don nervously pulled a little box from his pocket. I had no clue what it was going to be, but figured it was a sweetheart ring. “Don asked our friend to pull under the security lights so I could get a better look at my gift. I opened it and was surprised it was a ring that held one little diamond. “I asked him what it was for and he said it was an engagement ring. I asked him two other times what it was for and he finally asked, ‘Will you marry me?’ It didn't take me but one time to say, ‘Yes.’ “The four of us celebrated by ordering peanut butter milkshakes. We were married November 2, 1968. A bigger one has replaced that ring, but it still holds a special place in my heart.”
Emily and Jake Penegar
Emily and Jake had gone swimming at the gym one cold day in February. When they got back to Emily’s home, she started to go inside, but Jake said, “Wait.” She stopped and he didn’t say anything so she again started to open the door and he again said, “Wait.” Emily said, “Why; it’s cold, let’s go in” and she tried once more to go inside. And for the third time, Jake said, “Wait.”
16 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
. . . and she said ‘yes This time, when Emily turned around, he was down on one knee with an engagement ring in his hand. “Will you marry me?” he said. With tears in her eyes and a big smile, she said, “Yes.” There on her mom’s front porch, in the freezing cold, with soaking wet hair they were engaged!
Sam and Mary Jones
Sam Jones had gone to visit Mary at her home, but he stopped outside to ask her father for Mary’s hand in marriage.
When Mary realized that Sam was there, she went outside and told her dad that they would look for a missing gas can in the field. When they got to the field, Sam stopped the truck and pulled out the small box with her engagement ring inside. He turned to her and said, “Would you marry me?” And she said, “Yes.”
When they got back to the house, Mary said, “We didn’t find the gas can, but we found this,” holding out her hand so her grandmother could see the ring.
Clint and Karol Medlock
“It was December of 1998; we had been living together a little over a year. It was Clint’s birthday and I decided I would surprise him with a birthday cake and balloons at his office. He had always told me he didn’t like surprises but it was his birthday and that’s what people in love do. “When I arrived at his office toting the cake and balloons, the look on his face broke my heart. I wished him happy birthday and went back to our home. Before he got home from work, I decided to have a cocktail and get in the Jacuzzi to get over my disappointment from his lack of appreciation. That is where he found me when he arrived, a little tipsy and very relaxed. “He climbed into the Jacuzzi with a very sorry look on his face and announced he did not want to play house anymore. I was shocked, thinking he was ending our relationship. “Then after the thoughts in my head settled down. I finally heard him saying he wanted to marry me. The engagement period was short, but sweet. On January 9, 1999, we were married in our home with our adult children and a handful of close friends witnessing our marriage. “And for someone who didn’t like surprises himself; Clint
s!’
surprised me by flying my daughter from Norway for the wedding. I didn’t know she was in town until I was putting on my wedding dress and she opened the door to my dressing area. “It has been 16 years and the love grows deeper and deeper. We save the birthday surprises now for our grandson, who loves balloons and cake
Gene and Sheila Penegar
(Pictured at right on their wedding day)
“We had been out, probably to Godfather’s Pizza because that was one of our favorite places to eat. When Gene pulled the car into the driveway at his parents’ house, he turned the car off and we were just talking for a few minutes. “Then Gene asked me, ‘What would you think about marrying me?’ I wasn’t sure exactly what he was trying to say, so I asked him if he was asking me to marry him or just wanted to know what I thought about it. “He said, ‘Well, I guess I’m asking.’ I said, ‘Well, I guess I’ll marry you.’ On March 5, we will have been married for 32 years.”
Gene and Brenda Williams
(Pictured below during high school, when they became engaged)
Gene and Brenda Williams met in school, probably in the eighth grade, when Brenda sat behind Gene on the school bus, where they chatted.
As they grew older, their conversations became about what life would be like when they were older and married. There never was a given proposal, but they just knew they would get married.
Gene and Brenda knew that Brenda’s mother wouldn’t sign for her daughter to marry before the legal age, but they also knew they wanted to go ahead and get married. Friends suggested they go to Chesterfield to get married. Which they did.
When they first arrived in Chesterfield, the judge said Brenda’s birth certificate looked as if it had been altered. And it was! Gene had tried to change the date so Brenda would appear older.
He admitted what he’d done, and the judge gave him a permission form to be filled out, signed and notarized. Brenda’s mother didn’t sign it, but somehow the paperwork did get done and the couple did marry. Now, 53 years later, they have three grown daughters, five grandsons and two great grandchildren.
Louis and Tracy Stegall
Louis and Tracy Stegall had a mutual friend who wanted to connect her two divorced friends. She had described them and their children to each other. Louis had two children, a boy and a girl; Tracy had two young boys. One Saturday evening, Louis and his son were at the game arcade in the mall when an excited little boy ran right into him, much to the embarrassment of his apologetic mother. From the description his friend had given and the logos on the boys’ sweatshirts (from the office where Tracy worked), Louis knew right away that this was Tracy. Louis called the mutual friend as soon as he got home and asked if she would ask permission from Tracy for him to call. They met for lunch on Tuesday and again on Thursday. While Tracy was talking about her family during lunch, she recalled her mother taking her to work with her in a small store. Louis, who previously had delivered Merita Bread, said he remembered her mother at the store when he delivered bread and took honey buns to the cute little girl who was with her mother. On that second date, Tracy also mentioned that both her maiden and married names began with a W, so she had always been close to the end of the alphabet. Louis told her on that same date that he would like to move her up in the alphabet a little to an “S.” They went shopping for an engagement ring that weekend and married a year later. Their 20th anniversary is in March.
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 17
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Receptions can range from hoedowns and BBQ to sophisticated gourmet meals nce upon a time, wedding receptions were almost exclusively held in the church fellowship hall. Pastel mints, nuts and an non-spiked punch were served along with the wedding cake and not much else. Today’s receptions are vastly different. Most wedding receptions are complete meals, either plated or buffet, complete with appetizers, multiple meats, side dishes and even a smorgasbord buffet of bite-size desserts. Steak, chicken, seafood and vegetarian options are typical reception fare, but bridal couples now are often health-conscious and request lighter versions of traditional foods. They want their guests to be full, but not too full to dance the night way. Couples are invoking ethnic cuisine in their reception, adding Indian, Chinese, Jewish and other cultural dishes to traditional fare. Wedding planners caution about serving a fully ethnic reception without providing more traditional foods for those guests less adventuresome, as well as warning not to ignore significant dietary issues with participants, family members and guests. A new trend features a family-style reception meal, with guests passing serving plates of entrees and sides around their table. While effective for encouraging interaction among your guests, this trend can be more expensive because with styling, it’s more
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labor intensive for the caterer. Other trending meals include mac and cheese, ranging from homestyle to the uber elegant pasta tossed with seafood, as well as mashed potato bars, taco stands and even oyster-shucking stations. Really, you can have anything you want at your reception. Before choosing a caterer, spend some time deciding what ambiance you want your reception to have. Will it be laid-back or elegant? Are there favorite dishes that you want served? Do you want wine and beer, a full bar, signature drink or just nonalcoholic drinks? Chad Nichols of Monroe-based Creative Food Concepts says brides sometimes say simply that they want chicken, as an example. But that could be baked, stuffed, cordon bleu or prepared in any of a vast variety of styles. Your caterer can suggest preparations and may have his own specialities, but you know what you like. So tell him! At a growing number of receptions, the wedding cake is a significant aspect of the decor. Fortunately, pastry chefs are skilled at creating that special cake you want, whether it has a miniature Eiffel Tower, candied fresh flowers, edible ribbons and bows topping it or even a cake formed from cream puffs. Today’s bride can search the Internet for thousands of style ideas for her reception then and to show both her caterer and baker.
YOU www.CreativeFoodConcepts.com 704.290.5861
ChadN@Creative FoodConcepts.com
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 19
D
By Nancy E. Stephen
Su
ivorce is a word Lee Anne and Ken Norcross just don’t have in their vocabulary.
“I don’t think we ever discussed it,” says Lee Anne. Turning to her husband Ken, she now asks, “Do you want to talk about it?” Ken just chuckles and shakes his head.
ke Lak
Lee Anne and Ken have been through a lot in their 63-year marriage, but they really remember the good times, which they agree is key to a good marriage.
Like most couples who married in the ’50s, they encountered job issues, health issues and money issues along the way. But they worked through the issues and moved on. The two met in high school in Charleston, WV, and continued dating while studying at West Virginia University. Now 86 and “proud of it,” Lee Anne, says she robbed the cradle when she married Ken, who is 85.
While students today typically have cars and a certain degree of money to spend on dates, it was a very different time when the Norcrosses were dating. “Life was easier then, softer,” Lee Ann remembers. “You had a gang that would sit in a booth at the drug store (for entertainment.) Everyone knew everyone. No one had a car, and no one had any money.”
During college, “we would go to movies and to the West Side Woman’s Club for a dance with a juke box on Saturday nights. It cost 50 cents,” Ken recalls. “That’s about it for our dates. That was during the war.”
The two married after Lee Anne graduated and Ken changed colleges, only to learn that his military exempt status became void when he changed schools. Drafted into the signal corp, he spent basic training in Georgia, then went to signal school at Fort Monmouth, NJ, where Lee Anne joined him.
Military pay was minimal then, they remember. “I can remember going to the commissary in New Jersey, and if I spent more than $26, I was really uptight,” Lee Anne says. “That was hard, but sometimes our parents helped.”
“When I was in the army as a private, I made $85 a month and part of that was taken out for her. We didn’t know how poor we were,” Ken says. “Everybody lived like us.
“When you’re making $85 a month and paying Social Security, it’s amazing how little you actually make. You just wonder how you lived on it. But you did. We had a good time.
20 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
“When I made corporal, I immediately got a raise to $122 a month and thought I’d die. That was a lot.”
For entertainment, the couple socialized with other army couples, sometimes taking a drive to where they could see the buildings in New York or down to Norfolk to watch the ships come in and out. But all the time, “you had to be careful of toll roads and bridges that required payment,” Lee Anne says.
“We had a lot of friends, and they were all in the same boat,” Ken says. “We’d all put a meal together. Or go to the Chamberlin Hotel where every night there was a live band concert.” Following his two-year military stint, Ken took a job first with Lever Brothers, paying $75 a week, then with Ingersoll Rand where he spent the rest of his career. “They paid pretty good.”
The couple bought their first house in Charleston for $12,000, then moved to Roanoke where Lee Anne earned a master’s degree and taught as an elementary school teacher, the beginning of a 30-year career that she loved. After retirement, they moved to Lake Park.
uccess in marriage? It’s as simple as eeping your vows, ke Park couple says
A
fter 63 years of marriage, Lee Anne and Ken Norcross have definite ideas on what made their marriage strong. “We get along. We don’t chew on each other,” he says. “I never fuss about what we’re having for dinner. If you want to get along, go along,” he explains. “We talk over everything,” Lee Anne adds, “including whether to cut down a tree. We have to come to an agreement. We agree on these things. “I think you have to make decisions together. You have to bend a little; you’re not always right. . . . Sometimes he does have a good idea.” “Give and take,” says Ken. “Everything isn’t a last-ditch fight.” “There are moments when you’re unhappy or sad with your situation, but time heals all wounds,” Lee Ann says. It was a different time, they say, when they were married, and today’s youths have a totally different lifestyle.
“Their ideas are so different,” Ken says. “They want now what we’ve got now. But we didn’t have this when we were their ages. They owe so much money; they’re keeping up with the Joneses . . . They argue about everything.
“It either works or you try to make it work,” Ken adds. “It’s not all easy . . . You have to have respect for each other.”
He says the last 62 years have been good, except for some health issues. “Marriage-wise? I would do it over again.”
“The key is, 62 years ago, we promised to love each other and take care of each other and that was the vow,” Lee Anne says. “And I think that’s all you need.
“Things seemed to always work out. I’m of the era where I feel like there’s a guiding light behind it,” she says. “Things are happening because they’re supposed to.”
“Of course, we had ups and downs,” adds Ken. “But we made promises to each other and we’re still trying to keep them.”
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 21
You’re planning a great wedding day, but don’t forget it make it legal!
The legal age for marriage without parental consent in North Carolina is 18; those 16 or 17 must provide a notarized consent form. Both couple members must apply for the license together at the Register of Deeds office and present a current valid governmentissued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, and your Social Security card. Residency and blood tests are not required. The fee is $60, and there is no waiting period for the license, which is valid for 60 days. If you are going to make a name change to your driver’s license and your Social Security card, you will need a certified copy of the marriage license. which is an additional $10 for each certified copy.
Where to apply
Registrar of Deeds Office Union County Government Center 500 N. Main Street, 2nd Floor Monroe, NC 28110 (704) 283-3727 Mon - Fri 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
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22 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
M
True Love: It’s just as sweet the second time By Sheila Penegar
ary Milam and Wayne Treadaway have found true love for a second time. The two became engaged over the Christmas holidays, much to the surprise of their families who were told about the pending nuptials a week later. It’s not that the families were upset – not at all. They were just surprised by the engagement. But then, so was Mary. “We were sitting in front of the Christmas tree at Wayne’s house and he turned to hand me a little, gift-wrapped box. When I opened it, he said ‘Will you marry me?’ “I couldn’t stop saying ‘Oh my goodness, oh my goodness!’ “When Wayne asked me if that was a ‘yes,’ I said ‘Yes!’ As I opened the box, he said he would get down on one knee if I wanted him to, but I might have to help him get up! “We announced the engagement at Christmas morning brunch at my house,” Mary says, “where all my family had gathered together. After the shock passed, my daughter Chelle said, ‘Now we need to be serious and I want to make a toast.’ “Chelle said, ‘Mom and Wayne, we are so happy for you; we want to congratulate you and we wish the best for you. And now’s the time that most people would say something like “if you hurt her, you will have us to answer to us,” but we are just going to say “She’s your problem now!” The couple, who plan to marry in May, entered their relationship cautiously, but it took only a few months before they knew it was more than a “casual thing.” “We were introduced at a dance by a mutual friend who happened to be dating Wayne’s brother,” Mary explains. “We hit it off right away. He asked me to dance and we’ve been dancing together ever since. We go to a lot of dances together – at least a couple of times per week. “We dated for three or four months before we both realized that it was more than casual, but neither of us was ready to admit it until six months or more.” Both had been married before and both spouses had died, Mary continues. “I can only explain it as God’s timing because there were many times through the years that this could have been, might have been or would have been, but it wasn’t.
The timing surprised both of us. When you find something that you’re not really looking for at the moment, you can’t explain the timing – it has to be God’s timing.” “Wayne didn’t think he would ever love again, and I just thought God wanted me to be by myself. It humbles us to think that we have a plan, and then the plan goes in a completely different direction.” As older adults on the love merry-goround for a second time, the two recognize that love now is different from love a few decades back. “We are very blessed to find this kind of love again. For both of us to have had such a great love before . . . that made us who we are now and we couldn’t accept anything less. “Because of our maturity, we both have a good grasp on what really is important. We are able to laugh at things now that wouldn’t have been funny years ago; we can laugh at each other and with each other.” Wayne found new love to be “a little more difficult than I did because his sorrow was newer and he didn’t want to be in a position to face this kind of thing again,” Mary says. “He asked one time, ‘Are you not afraid?’ I just answered, ‘Not much, but it’s worth the risk to love someone again even with the danger of loss.’ ” While the wedding is three months off, the newly engaged couple is busy making decisions about their new life together. “When you’re married the first time, you come to the table with nothing,” Mary says. “This time, there are two families, two churches, two households, two sets of furniture, two different insurances and too many vehicles. “One of our difficulties is the whole idea of merging all of these things together. “It takes a lot of time and some assessment of what possessions are important enough to be a deal breaker. He has a shower (at his house) but I have a jet tub – we are negotiating that. Do I get a jet tub? And we need a doggie door for Maggie.” Wayne is similar to, but different from Mary’s first husband, which she says is a good thing. “He has the basic characteristics of integrity, laughter and sense of humor. In other ways, he is very different – and I like that. I like that I haven’t tried to make him into a cookie cutter. He has those characteristics that I would look for and admire . . . And you know what – he’s easy on the eyes, too!”
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 23
I
It’s cookie time! Union County Gir
Text and photos by Nancy E. Stephen
t’s that time of year again – Girl Scout cookie time! Scouts throughout the Hornets’ Nest Council are knocking on doors in their neighborhoods and manning tables at local businesses in their annual Girl Scout cookie drive And they sell a lot of cookies. Last year, the local council sold more than 1 million boxes, with the 1,500 Union County scouts selling 138,700 packages. That’s a lot of cookies (and calories, but who’s counting?) The cookies are an easy sell, say local scouts. People are just waiting for them to come around with their order form. Junior scout Hailey Kramp, 11, a student at Wingate Elementary School, sold more than 600 boxes in Hailey Kramp samples this year’s a cookie from this beginning days. year’s varieties. But then, she’s an old pro at the process. Last year, in her first year, Hailey sold more than 800 boxes. It was scary at first, she said, recalling last year’s door-todoor selling, but she was prepared for the endeavor. “I practiced with my mom and dad at home by saying my lines and trying to get an order. I tried knocking on my cousin’s door and I practiced with her, too. “When I went to my first house trying to sell cookies, I was doing my best to be confident and not be shy, say my lines correctly and smile,” she remembers. Did anyone turn her down? Absolutely not.
24 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
Jasmine Wilson, a 9-year-old in her fourth year of selling, is charged up about selling this year.
“I love it,” she exclaims. “It gives me time to get out and do stuff that I usually don’t get to do. I meet some people that I don’t know.” A career salesperson in the making, Jasmine has set her goal this year to twice her sales last year – 1,150 boxes last year; a goal of 3,000 this year.
How can she can sell that many?
“I want to challenge myself,” she says, exuding confidence and enthusiasm not typical of a 9-year-old, “and not just stay in the same area.
“Actually, I get a lot of help selling cookies,” she adds. “My mom and aunt take them to their jobs.”
Jasmine has experienced a little bit of rejection selling, not because people don’t want cookies, but because they have already bought from another scout in the neighborhood. But that doesn’t faze her.
If someone doesn’t want cookies, Jasmine tunes her sales pitch to the idea of contributing cookies to military troops. Most people then are happy to purchase. Since 2002, the Hornets’ Nest Council has donated nearly 400,000 packages of cookies to the men and women who serve our country. This year, the council’s goal is 46,000 packages. Individuals simply purchase, but don’t take possession of cookies which are shipped to the troops, even overseas.
Jasmine’s favorite cookie is the Thin Mints, one of the earliest varieties which has remained popular through the years.
In fact, Thin Mints account for 25 percent of cookie sales, followed by Samoas or Caramel deLites (19 percent), Peanut Butter Patties or Tagalongs (13 percent), Peanut Butter Sandwich or Do-si-dos (11 percent) and Shortbread or Trefoils (9 percent). The other varieties, combined, account for the remaining 23 percent.
Jasmine cookie troops.
rl Scouts sell 130,000-plus boxes
e Wilson displays a boxed for delivery to ..
History of the cookie
Three new varieties are among this year’s cookies – Rah-Rah Raisins, Trios and gluten-free Toffee-tastic. Don't know a Girl Scout but want some cookies? You don’t have to miss the opportunity to stock up. Enter your zip code at www.girlscouts.org to find your nearest sales booth. More than 50 locations in the county will have cookies for sale in February. Troops get to choose how they use the 20 percent of the price they retain. Some use the funds for fun events, like taking a trip to Great Wolf Lodge, for example, while others want to donated to the animal shelter. Because 100 percent of the net revenue raised through Girl Scout cookies stays with your local council, scout executives say you’re also making an investment in your community. Girl Scout leaders believe that the cookies are not only a fundraiser, but also teach young girls essential skills such as goal setting, decision making and money management.
Girl Scout cookies had their earliest beginnings in the kitchens and ovens of members, with moms volunteering as technical advisers. In 1917, an Oklahoma troop baked cookies and sold them in its cafeteria as a service project. In the 1920s and 1930s, Girl Scouts in different parts of the country continued to bake their own simple sugar cookies with their mothers. These cookies were packaged in wax paper bags, sealed with a sticker, and sold door to door for 25 to 35 cents per dozen. Enthusiasm for Girl Scout Cookies spread nationwide. By 1937, more than 125 Girl Scout councils reported holding cookie sales. Girl Scout cookies were sold by local councils around the country until World War II, when sugar, flour, and butter shortages led Girl Scouts to instead sell calendars. After the war, cookie sales resumed, with the national organization licensing local bakers to produce and package cookies. In 1951, Girl Scout cookies came in three varieties: Peanut Butter Sandwich, Shortbread and Chocolate Mints (now known as Thin Mints). With the advent of the suburbs, Girl Scout cookies began being sold by girls at tables in shopping malls. And in 1979, the brand-new Girl Scout logo appeared on cookie boxes, which became more creative and began promoting the benefits of Girl Scouting. By the 21st Century, all cookies were kosher
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(704) 283-8888 l www.AndersonFamilyMed.com
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 25
TAKE CHARGE
Monday’s coming whether
S
you like it or not! By Loyd Pennington
{ le
ome events occur once and are forever lost to those who did not take advantage of the opportunity.
The joyous fabric of our lives is stitched together by those unique chances to gather. This can be the good and the bad.
Don't miss the chance to be at the side of a friend who is suffering a loss; it will always be remembered. But also go to the dance, the wedding and the reunion and celebrate the connections of life. It is not likely that you will sit around the fires of winter and talk about the events you passed up. To make your life relevant is simply a choice that will be the biggest part of your legacy. What will it be?
t t t So the sun will soon rise on this Monday, and we will need to decide if we will be optimistic about the week ahead and all of its possibilities or if we will make the choice that it will be difficult and unproductive. Let others lead small lives but not us. It is simply the truth that we will decide which path to take. So what will it be? t t t Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God.
Servers in restaurants have a tough job.
6:30 p.m. dinner and open bar 8 p.m. showtime Union County Ag Center $110 person. Reservations at (704) 283-2784.
26 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
Please be
Issues of all kinds can leave them with little to no pay for their work, no matter how hard they try and regardless of whether they could control any issues that came up. There is the issue which I see so often – people struggling with percentages for a tip or only leaving a couple of bucks. Here is an easy option; I call it the threesy. If the bill is less than $100, multiply the first digit by 3. So a $20 bill would call for a tip of $6. Simple.
}
e f i l ns o s s e
t t t Defy the odds. Be thankful. Get and give some hugs. Monday has been waiting to get here, and tomorrow will be gone forever. What if you knew this was your last chance to tell someone how important he is in your life? What if it is? Call. Go by. Be the difference.
Loyd Pennington is owner of Top Ten Promotions, a promotional item company in Waxhaw. He is married to Dana and proud of his son, musician Taylor Dean. Loyd posts inspirational thoughts each week on Facebook,ending with his call to action: Giddyup!
e threesy!
If you are at a nicer spot or with a group of five or six and the tab is $60, again it is simple, 6 X 3 = $18.
If the bill is over $100, then use the first two digits. If the bill is $125, then 12 X 3 = $36 tip. Most of us are pretty darn good at the times three table. Most servers are good people who make little to nothing as an hourly wage ($2.25) and rely on tips for survival. Brush up on your threes and make life better and simpler for yourself and these good people. Please be threesy!
Loyd Pennington loves to ride, but that definitely takes second place to hanging out with his son, musician Taylor Dean.
In Memory
Richard (Rick) Boike 1944-2014
Kenneth (Ken) Collins 1937-2014
Founders of Collins, Boike & Moore, a CPA firm serving Mecklenburg, Union and surrounding counties. Two men who gave whole-heartedly to their families, business and community and who are deeply missed.
Collins, Boike & Moore, P.A. Certified Public Accountants
4630 W. Hwy 74 Monroe, NC 28110 704-289-6317
1505 Skyway Dr. Monroe, NC 28110 980-313-8245
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 27
I
Hwy. 55 - A ’50s kind of burger place
f you’re really hungry, head to Hwy. 55 in Indian Trail for a free burger, fries and drink. But that’s only if you’re really, really, really hungry. The vintage-look burger joint (and we say that with affection) offers The Five Five Challenge. It’s 55 ounces of burger with at least four trimmings on a bun, plus fries and a 24-ounce drink. If you can eat it all in 30 minutes or less, it’s free. But if you can’t, you owe them $26.99. Bring your own antacid!
Eating
The chicken cordon bleu sandwich ($6.29) comes with ham, fried or grilled chicken and a choice of American, provolone, Swiss or pepper jack cheese. Our reviewer chose grilled chicken with Swiss cheese and reported that the combination with ham, lettuce, and tomato was very tasty. Out
in Union
Our waitress said she’s never seen anyone finish the meal. Another couple said they saw someone get within just a few bites, but he couldn’t go any further.
The good news is that regular-size burgers and other sandwiches are available for normal-size appetites. Hwy. 55 definitely has a niche with its menu. Specialty and classic burgers come in two sizes – regular and Andy’s size, which is twice as big.
Five Five Challenge
was tender and moist, and the jalapeños and jack cheese added extra zest.
Specialty burgers ($3.59-$6.59) include the John Boy & Billy BBQ Bacon Burger with mustard, chili, bacon and your choice of cheese, plus a crispy onion ring, all doused – their term – with the duo’s grillin’ sauce.
Other specialty burgers include a golden fried shrimp burger and a pimento cheeseburger, which one diner deemed delicious. Just enough pimento to go with the bacon and onions.
Another diner chose the 2014 sandwich of the year, cheesesteak served with pepper jack cheese, mushrooms and onions on a steamed hoagie roll and topped with jalapeños ($6.59). The steak
The Hwy 55 special ($6.99) is a great value that includes a burger, large side of fries and choice of soda or tea. A hot, freshly cooked burger loaded with grilled onions and mushrooms, topped with provolone and slathered with mustard was one diner’s choice.She appreciates the wide choice of toppings and cheeses available.
Free toppings include mustard, onions, slaw, chili, mayo, ketchup, lettuce, tomato, pickles, jalapeno peppers, grilled mushrooms, onions and bell peppers. You’d have a difficult time wrapping your mouth around a burger with all those toppings.
That night, she chose grilled onions, provolone and mustard, but says there are times when she just wants a burger with lettuce, tomato, mustard and ketchup. Orders of fries and onion rings were hot and crisp and really enough to share.
The diner’s hamburger steak plate ($8.99) hit the spot that night, too. More than half a pound of fresh ground beef is loaded with sauteed onions and peppers and topped with gravy.
The gravy is a dark gravy with plenty of taste, not like white or milk gravy your often find in the South. The platter is served with fries – get them covered with gravy if you’d like – and Texas toast.
Here’s the skinny
Ambiance: It looks and feels like a vintage diner, complete with turquoise, pink and chrome decor. Menu: Lots of sandwiches and platters featuring burgers,
chicken and shrimp with lots of free toppings and four cheeses to choose from. Three salads and a kids menu.
Quality: Burgers were fresh and juicy and the steamed hoagie
buns were a hit, as were the fries with gravy.
Service: Quick, efficient, friendly. Accommodating to our diet
28 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
The “sp
needs without hesitation.
Value: Great value. Dine in or take out.
Will we return? Yes, and we’ll be taking the youngsters of all
ages.
Hwy. 55 6640 Old Monroe Road, Indian Trail, (704) 774-1798 13645 Providence Road, Weddington, 704) 845-1617 www.Hwy55burgers.com
Pimento burger with bacon.
pecial” with onions and provolone.
Hamburger steak with gravy fries. While you can’t say the menu is diet friendly, you can say the staff is. They were happy to remove buns and toast, swap a side salad for fries and bring hot water as a preferred drink.
diner regaled us with tales of the cars while our youngest diner (50-ish) enjoyed putting the decorative stickers on the cars.
Kids can order a hot dog, tenders, cheeseburger or grilled cheese, all with kid-sized fries, drink and a special prize, served in a classic car.
Fresh custard is made several times a day to be served as waffle cones, cups, sundaes, shakes, floats and something called concretes – three scoops mixed with your favorite toppings. There’s a flavor of the day, which we sampled, but just couldn’t indulge, and 18 other toppings to stir in. Another day!
Diners have choices other than burgers, too. Shrimp and chicken come as platters, sandwiches and in a variety of salads. Wings and chicken tender baskets ($6.19-$6.99) come with fries. OK, the cars are for the kids meals, but we middleaged diners loved the vehicle boxes. Our oldest
All six of us were so full after our meals – and more than one togo box was carted home for another day – that we totally missed custard desserts. Another blast from the past!
We’re in the mood for music!
Symphony & Psalms Union Symphony Orchestra
Richard Rosenberg, Artistic Director
Wingate University Singers
Valen ne’s Gala
Dr. Kenney Potter, Music Director
Saturday, Feb. 7 6 p.m. $100 a person
Te Deum, Haydn Chichester Psalms, Bernstein Symphony No.3, Tchaikovsky 4 p.m., $18-$28 The Batte Center, Wingate University
Premier tables available.
Sunday, April 26
All in the Family Union Symphony Youth Orchestra Tom LaJoie, Music Director
Union Symphony Prelude
Sabrina Howard, Music Director
Fanfare for the Common Man, Copland 4 p.m., $6, $18 Marvin Ridge High School
&
Up Close
Reserve tickets at 704.283.2525. www.UnionSymphony.org
This project is supported by the Union County Community Arts Council and the Grassroots Program of the North Carolina Arts Council, a state agency.
PERSONAL
Sunday, March 29
The diner itself is cutely decorated in vintage ’50s pink, turquoise and chrome. The colors brought back memories of the kitchen in a former home with turquoise appliances and a pink countertop.
Dining, Dancing & Auc on and a short concert by Union Symphony Orchestra Richard Rosenberg, Director Appalachian Spring, Copland
With Union County Youth Ballet Bonita Simpson, Director Formal A!re Rolling Hills Country Club RSVP by Feb. 2
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 29
32
3:
7:
Quilting with Norma 10 a.m. – Noon Norma Moore at (704) 385-9392 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.- Knitting with Margaret. Margaret Pigg at (704) 624-2602 Marshville Museum and Cultural Center, 201 N. Elm Street, Marshville mmcc1893@gmail.com
“Stitches Through Time� Antique and Contemporary Quilts Feb 7: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Feb 8: 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Adults $5, 6-12 $2, Seniors $4, 5 and under, free Museum of the Waxhaws, 8215 Waxhaw Highway (704) 843-1832, mwaxhaw@museumofthewaxhaws.org
14:
4: Yoga 6:30 p.m., $10 per class
things to do in Sweet Union
Valentine’s Day Party 7 p.m. – 11 p.m., VIP $30 or regular $10 RJ Adams provides romantic live music Treehouse Vineyards, 301 Bay St., Monroe (704) 283-4208, www.treehousevineyards.com
14:
Mats and props provided. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail (704) 560-7131 or marietheriault@windstream
5: Chocoholic Frolic 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., $25 in advance; $30 at the door
February All month
Art exhibit by local artist Greg Staton Reception on February 14, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Free Marshville Museum and Cultural Center, 201 N. Elm Street, Marshville mmcc1893@gmail.com
2:
Fit Club Free class held on each Monday at 6 p.m. All fitness levels are welcome. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail erica.tehonica@mac.com
Open Mic Poetry 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., free Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail (704) 821-2541, sdidier@admin.indiantrail.org
19:
Samplings, raffles, prizes and silent auction. Benefits Literacy Council of Union County. Swan Manor, 219 Ridge Road, Monroe (704) 226-1425 or www.chocoholicfrolic.org
Clay Workshop 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m., $25 includes instruction tools, materials and firing fees Learn the basics of working with clay. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail khopkins99@yahoo.com, (704) 998-1766
6:
Wanderlust: From Here to Timbuktu 8 p.m., $15 Written & performed by Martin Dockery. Batte Center, Wingate University (704) 233-8300 or www.battecenter.org
21:
7:
Night for the Arts 6:30 p.m. dinner and open bar, 8 p.m. Showtime $110 Featuring “Big Swing and the Dance Experience� Union County Agricultural Center 3230 Presson Road, Monroe (704) 283-2784, uccac@aol.com
Valentine’s Gala “Up Close and Personal� 6 p.m., $100 per person Union Symphony Orchestra; concert, dinner, dance Rolling Hills Country Club, 2722 W. Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe (704) 283-2525, unionsymphony.org
The T he B Batte Center Presents WANDERLUST: W ANDERLUST: FROM H HERE ERE T TO O TIMBUKTU TIMB written written & p performed erforme by Martin Martin D Dockery ock cke ery
&%" s 0- s
A man journeys deep int trekking from the Atlant Sahara. There he deman Epiphany. Any Epiphany a comic, true stor y.
Lightwire Theatre presents
THE UGLY DUCKLING & THE TORTOISE & THE HARE
SONGS & STORIES OF THE STEEL WHEELS Opening Act: Red June THE CIVIL WAR with Bobby Horton
Lightwire Theatre
Orlando Fringe Festival Ottawa Fringe Festival Winnipeg Fringe Festival Vancouver Fringe Festival
Songs & Stories of the Civil War War
The Steel Wheels
30 Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015
: :,1*$7( 81,9(56,7< ,1*$7( 81,9(56,7<
www.battecenter.org
â&#x2013;
704.233.8300
March 2: Fit Club Free class held on each Monday at 6 p.m.
All fitness levels are welcome. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail erica.tehonica@mac.com
4: Yoga 6:30 p.m., $10 per class, mats and props provided. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail (704) 560-7131, marietheriault@windstream.com
7: We Like Short Shorts March 7 at 7:30 p.m.; March 8 at 2:30 p.m.
A festival of 10 minute plays. $12.50 per person The Storefront Theatre, Waxhaw Presbyterian Church 3100 Old Waxhaw Monroe Rd, Waxhaw www.thestorefronttheatre.org
13-21:
The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940 $10 in advance at (704) 238-3394, $11 at the door. March 13, 14, 20, 7:30 p.m.; March 21, 2:30 p.m . Cuthbertson High, 1400 Cuthbertson Rd, Waxhaw (704) 238-3394, info@unioncountyplaymakers.org
14: St. Patricks Day Party & Live At The Vines 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. ,$5
and the South through the music they loved. Batte Center, Wingate University (704) 233-8300, www.battecenter.org
28:
Hop To It Easter Event 10 a.m. – Noon Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail
29:
Symphony & Psalms Union Symphony Orchestra & Wingate Singers 4 p.m., $18/$28 The Batte Center, Wingate University (704) 283-2525, www.UnionSymphony.org
April 10,11: Downtown Monroe Artwalk Free, Friday 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.; Sat., Noon - 4 p.m.
Various mediums of art, music in stores and buildings. Main St., Downtown Monroe www.historicdowntownmonroe.org
11: Open Mic Poetry 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., free
Light refreshments will be served. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail (704) 821-2541 or sdidier@admin.indiantrail.org
11:
The Steel Wheels with Red June 8 p.m., $20 Batte Center, Wingate University (704) 233-8300 or www.battecenter.org
25:
Queen’s Cup Steeplechase General Admission $50 Lawn Boxes and Tailgate packages available; see website for pricing. Mineral Springs www.queenscup.org
26:
All In The Family Union Symphony Youth Orchestra 4 p.m. $6, $18 Marvin Ridge High School, Waxhaw (704) 283-2525, www.UnionSymphony.org
Send public event information to Editor@UnionLifestyle.com
The Sulkes Band & Brixx Wood Fired Pizza Treehouse Vineyards, 301 Bay St. ,Monroe (704) 283-4208, www.treehousevineyards.com
14: Open Mic Poetry 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., free
Contact Susan Didier to sign up to read. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail (704) 821-2541, sdidier@admin.indiantrail.org
19: Clay Workshop 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. $25 includes instruction tools,
materials and firing fees Learn the basics of working with clay. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail, (704) 998-1766, khopkins99@yahoo.com
20: Women’s Leadership Conference 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. $35
Union County Agricultural Center 3230 Presson Road, Monroe wcofu@gmail.com, ucwomenscoalition.com
21: Two Strong Women, Quivering in Their Boots 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. This program is for 12 - adult. Indian Trail Cultural Arts Center, 100 Navajo Trail Reserve tickets at (704) 821-2541
21 : Dancin’ In the Clover 6 p.m.; show at 7 p.m., $75 dinner included
Rolling Hills CC, 2722 W. Roosevelt Blvd, Monroe (704) 283-3742, union4hfoundation.com
22: Lightwire Theatre presents: “The Ugly Duckling & The Tortoise & The Hare”
3 p.m., $15/$6 Using body puppets with electroluminescent wire Batte Center, Wingate University (704) 233-8300, www.battecenter.org
27: “Songs & Stories of the Civil War”8 p.m. $15/$6
Bobby Horton explores the stories of both the North
QUEEN’S CUP 20TH ANNIVERSARY SATURDAY, APRIL 25, 2015 benefitting
WWW . QUEENSCUP . ORG
704.843.7070
20 QUEEN’S CUP
Union Lifestyle l February - April 2015 31