Lake Norman Woman Magazine May 2014

10

things lkn

to do in may

woman watch—

our to

literally!

action

figures featuring:

(l to r): dr. lindsay montgomery, lydia sullivan, teresa lester, & 2 more lkn veterans!

you know her!

She’s your co-worker, boss, mentor, peer, neighbor, or friend.

you respect her!

She’s courageous, confident, spunky, inspirational, a real leader, a difference-maker!

Lake Norman Woman Magazine is seeking nominations to recognize “Women of Will” in the Lake Norman community. Honorees will be profiled in a printed salute in our December 2014 issue as well as at an event in December at the Charles Mack Center in Mooresville. We are looking for women who have demonstrated exceptional

nominate her!

For the 2014

Women of Will

Awards

leadership and passion, have a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others through their business and their community, who serve as an inspirational role model for other women, and/or who have otherwise enhanced the lives of the residents of Lake Norman.

D e a d l i n e f o r S u b m i ss i o n o f N o m i n at i o n s i s Au g u s t 1 6 , 2 0 1 4 .

To nominate: Go to www.lakenormanwoman.com and submit an application electronically or download and mail the application to PO Box 1000, Cornelius, NC 28031. A one-page description (no more than 500 words) of why you feel the nominee is deserving of being honored must be submitted with the application. Honorees will be selected by an independent committee and notified by Sept. 15, 2014.

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sta f f

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publisher

Dana Nieters

dana@lakenormanwoman.com

volume VII, number XII

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May

action figures

editor

Amy Hallman

amy@lakenormanwoman.com

Operations support & contributing writer Leslie Ogle

leslie@lakenormanwoman.com

advertising sales manager Stephanie Sullivan

stephanie@lakenormanwoman.com

advertising account executive Kathy Wheeler

kathylivingmagazine@gmail.com

distribution manager Juli Simmons

ads@lakenormanwoman.com

art director Chelsea Bren

chelsea@lakenormanwoman.com

M ay c o n t r i b u t o r s :

Nadine Deason; Stacey Hinman; Starr Miller; John J. Ballas, D.C.

c o n tac t u s : PO Box 1000 Cornelius, NC | 28031

704.895.6168

www.lakenormanwoman.com

Ad Submissions: ads@lakenormanwoman.com

Lake Norman Woman reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Lake Norman Woman standards. Submissions are welcome but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned.

Lake Norman Woman assumes no responsibility for information, products, services or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. An advertised special printed in this publication is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

Copyright 2014 Lake Norman Woman, L.L.C.

{from

th e

publisher}

Action can be very alluring: our society is drawn to things and people of action.

For example, we don’t just watch the 6 o’clock news, we watch “Action News”; we love action movies; we commiserate with someone if he or she is “out of action”; and when something exciting is going on, we all want a piece of that action. So this month, Lake Norman Woman is focusing on action figures. We’re not talking comic book super heroes, we’re talking women of action: Women who every day, take steps, both big and small, to make our community and our world a better place. And who more appropriate to honor in such an issue than a few of the courageous LKN women who through their service in our military have made a tremendous contribution to our nation?

Mothers get their kudos this month, too. But have you noticed that while most everyone else is ready to celebrate motherhood, most moms are pretty hard on themselves? I know that I am. In fact, not a single day passes in which I don’t question my abilities as a parent: the struggles to do the right thing, the struggles to figure out what the right thing is, and the struggles to overcome the dumb mistakes I make when I get the right thing wrong. Lucky for me, my own children set me straight.

When my twins were four, their preschool teacher had her students make a book about their moms. She asked each child questions, then she wrote his answer in a page of the book for him to illustrate. One of the questions was “What does your Mom like to do for fun?” Ryan drew a picture of dana nieters

me drinking a beer; Jordan drew a picture of me napping on the couch—with a couple of things that looked an awful lot like beer bottles lying around me. Not exactly how I had hoped my children (or the preschool teacher) perceived me. I was mortified.

But when I summoned the courage to turn the pages and read more: “My mom is the best mom in the world”; “My mom is really pretty;” “My mom always makes me laugh even if I’m really mad”; “I love to go swimming with my mom—we’re like happy fish!”; “My mom is the best lightning bug catcher ever!”; “My mom always loves me, and I love her,” tears of joy ran down my face as I read how my children really saw me. Today, the pages of those constructionpaper books are edge worn and fading, but the tears still flow every time I read those words and catch a glimpse of me through their eyes.

The truth is, while mothers are certainly action figures, we’re not super heroes. We’re just human. And if we continually look at ourselves through the lens of an adult, we’re going to fall short because we’ll focus mostly on our mistakes rather than our strengths.

If I could advise my young-mother self, I’d tell her to let the things that seem important now—studying for that graduate exam or cleaning the house—take a back burner.

Go jump in the creek and catch fireflies with the boys. But most importantly, I’d tell her to take some time to look at the world, and at herself, through the eyes of her children. She’ll like what she sees.

-dana

. publisher

C o n tac t Da n a v i a e- m a i l at da n a @ l a k e n o r m a n wo m a n. c o m

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Contents

42

M ay 2 0 1 4

lynne gingras, andre christine gallery

18 10

in every issue 30 33

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Wo m e n o n th e m ov e

s c e n e w i th l k n w

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1 0 th i n gs to d o i n m ay

implementing story time at any age

Features a day in the life: Kris Bowser

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here she is: Dr. Angela Harris

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LKN Women Veterans:

23 24 26 27 28

Teresa Lester Lydia Sullivan Wendi Amos Dr. Lindsay Montgomery Kathy Groce

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Woman To Watch: Kathie Morton

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Success story: Telling The Story Of Life

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10

kris bowser, wink lash & skin studio

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dr. angela harris, lake norman eye care

{

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o n the c over: lkn military veter ans,

dr. lindsay montgomery,

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lydia sullivan, & teresa lester ph oto g r a ph y by:

chelsea bren

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Family Born To Read: Implementing Story Time At Any Age

Home Display Your Collection With Purpose

Self

mind, body, spirit: You Have To Keep Moving

Women & Business Make Your Own Success

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A Day in the Life…

of

Kris Bowser

Owner of Wink Lash & Skin Studio

Th e “ e y e s ” hav e i t I love the creativity of this job. I’m able to help women feel good about themselves by creating eyelash frames to enhance their natural beauty. We also do waxing, facials, microderm treatments, and peels.

M ot h e r k n ow s b e s t Running your own business can be challenging and stressful. But when I feel discouraged, I call my mother and she helps me see the glass is half full.

Ta k i ng act i on I am on the board of directors of the Greg Biffle Foundation. We work to create awareness for the well-being of animals. Last year we provided grant donations to over 80 rescue groups.

M ot i vato r s I grew up in Maine, but I’ve been in NC for 16 years.

Our household includes my husband, Jeremy; my son, Seth; and my daughter, Kendall.

When I need to take action on something, it’s my family I think about and how much I want to make them proud.

It’s epic

My guilty pleasure is the carrot cake from Epic Chophouse!

fav o r i t e l a d y of action: wo n d e r wo ma n !

Where the action is

My family loves to spend our free time out on Lake Norman!

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Apples of her eye Though I have so much in life to be happy about, it’s my son’s goofy sense of humor, watching my daughter learn new things, or just thinking about the sweet things my husband does for me that really make me smile!

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Make Your Own

By: nadine deason

Success By: nadine deason

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.”

Helen Keller once said:

Have you ever dreamed and aspired to greatness in some endeavor only to be laughed at, mocked, or ridiculed? Many dreams have been destroyed by the people around them. But sometimes the seeds of adversity can have an opposite effect. Rather than allowing negative comments to kill your dreams, use them to fuel your own fire.

Years ago, I studied watercolor with a renounced artist from the Cincinnati area, Don Dennis. One day Don distributed an article from a syndicated writer entitled, “There’s no easy way to the top of the mountain.” I took the words of that article to heart.

For years, I even had copies of that article taped to the mirrors in each of my children’s bedroom; and I added words that I felt were a crucial element to success: “Never forget the 3 P’s…Prayer, Persistence, and Perseverance.”

In more recent years, I had my own challenges overcoming negativity when after 25 years of nursing, I aspired to go into real estate. My own mother scoffed at me, “You are going to fail just like everybody else that tried real estate.” When I became successful—after just two years and becoming Prudential Carolinas Realty’s top agent in all of Charlotte in 2005—Mom told me, “Well, there must be no realtors in Lake Norman.”

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Remember there is

no

easy way

to the

top of the mountain.

Negativity from loved ones can hurt the most. Yes, I could have lost faith in myself and bought into her words but instead, I chose to let it fuel my fire. I went to real estate school with a vision of my future realestate ads always in my mind. I professed to everyone without hesitancy that I was destined for greatness, knowing I had within me everything I needed to be an unstoppable powerhouse of success. Every day, I visualized my future ads and believed in myself; but I also worked hard, staying later at the office and doing the things my mentor told me would bring me success.

Starting with a passion to prove my mother wrong, my persistence—and a gracious helping of hope and prayers to the Divine—helped me to envision continued success over the years.

Many people have asked me over the years how I was able to rise so quickly to the pinnacle of success. I would say, “Remember there is no easy way to the top of the mountain. Don’t let anyone or anything give you an excuse to abandon your dreams to become a superstar.

Envision your success daily, and always remember the 3 P’s: Prayer, Persistence and Perseverance.”

Nadine Deason of Team Nadine is a Realtor/Broker serving both buyers and sellers with all their real estate needs for the entire Lake Norman region. She provides luxury services to all price points. Nadine’s a Realtor with a heart who truly cares! You can learn more about Nadine and Team Nadine at: www.alakehome.com or call 704.361.9183.

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{ h e r e she i s } An LKN Woman who personifies what makes Lake Norman Women so great

What “calls you to action” in life?

Many things get me enthusiastic and ready for action. Certainly my patients call me into action every day. They are my family, and I treat them and consider them to be just that—family.

Also, my son is my action hero. My day starts off just right when I drop him off at school with his little backpack in tow. As he walks toward the school door and waves back at me, I am ready for the day.

How did you choose optometry? My mom was an

optician, and I always admired her work. I knew from an early age that I wanted to be in health care so this was a good fit for me. When I bought this practice in 2005, my dreams really came to fruition. I love people and helping people, so it was a perfect choice.

angela

d r.

harris

If you could give one piece of advice to your son, what would it be? Not to sound too

cliché, but I think patience is a virtue.

I would advise him to wait on the important things in life like choosing a life partner and career. Make sure it is who or what he wants and don’t settle for anything less. It has paid off for me a thousand times over; I married the right man, and I found the right career.

h o m e to w n : c h i n a g ro v e , n c

What do you like to do when you’re not peeking into someone’s eyes? Well,

lkn home: mooresville H o u s e h o l d : H u s b a n d Da n n y a n d 6-year-old son Conner

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i am an LKN oman because…

I gre w u p in a s m a ll , c l o s e- kni t c om m u nit y, a n d L a k e N o rm a n re m in d s m e o f t h at. I en j oy kno wing m y n e i g h b o rs , a n d I l o v e t h e wat e r . W h en we g r ill o u t o n ou r d e c k o ve rl o o kin g t h e l a k e , i t f eel s lik e I ’m on a p er p et ua l va c at i o n .

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photography: coral riley

admittedly I really like peeking into people’s eyes, so it’s hard to break away from work. But we do enjoy traveling, especially scuba diving in the Caribbean. I would also like to go to Italy again and maybe the Greek Isles. My husband and I often participate in community events and charity functions. Because he also owns his own business, we both feel it is important to pay it forward.

Lake Norman Eye Care is located at 548 Williamson Road, Suite1, in Mooresville.You can visit Dr. Angela Harris for your next eye exam by calling 704.799.2233 or check out their website at www.lakenormaneye.com.

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family

getting the most out of reading

A love of reading begins during infancy when a baby recognizes excitement in her parent’s voice during story time. To raise an active reader, it’s important to make time to read together, choose the right books, and implement a regular story time schedule.

While story time should be a daily routine, your child’s reaction and enthusiasm will be anything but predictable.

Born to Read: By: stacey hinman

Implementing Story Time at Any Age

Establishing a love of reading in your child’s first five years is crucial for brain development and language proficiency. Consider the following age-based tips to set an early foundation for reading appreciation and to help develop language skills, foster creativity, and bond with your little one: Before

Ages

Research demonstrates that babies respond to books that were read to them in the womb. During pregnancy, reading establishes voice recognition and promotes cognitive development in your baby. The rhythm and melody of voices serve as the prenatal foundation for language, so choose a rhythmic story with cadence, a warm tone, or repetition—repetition leads to recognition!

Our suggestions: How do I Love You? by Marion Dane Bauer or Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr.

Reading books should be a favorite bedtime activity at this age. With daily “tuckin” stories and snuggling together at bedtime, children will associate comfort and warmth with reading.

Sturdy board books with bright illustrations are easiest to handle and invite participation. Books with familiar subjects like babies, animals, and parents will resonate with babies since they respond to faces and eyes before other stimuli.

Our suggestions: Peek a Who? by Nina Laden or Counting Kisses by Karen Katz

Birth:

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0-1:

Ages

Ages

Research shows that the frequency of reading in a child’s first three years is associated with advanced language and cognitive scores later in life. Choosing a wide variety of stories will help him build vocabulary and understand story sequencing.

Ask lots of questions, act silly, and try out different character voices to make reading dramatic and capture your toddler’s attention.

Vivid illustrations, along with rhyming and repetitive text, will encourage lively dialogue!

Our suggestions: Book! or From Head to Toe by Eric Carle

Preschoolers are ready to discover the magic of books for themselves. Books help young children understand their own feelings when characters face similar life events, so don’t be afraid to bring up topics they may be curious about. Read books by different authors, introduce new genres, and encourage your child to explore a variety of books to develop interests and discover favorites, as well as learn about complex story structures with plot and characters.

Our suggestions: The Red Book by Barbara Lehman or A Splendid Friend Indeed by Suzanne Bloom

1-3:

4-5:

To ensure that the time reading with your child is both engaging and educational, follow this simple READ acronym, developed by the Atlanta Junior League and the Rollins Center for Language & Learning at the Atlanta Speech School:

READ-

Repeat the book three to five times.

Discuss the story, characters and new vocabulary.

Engage and Enjoy, using different voices for the characters to bring the story to life.

Ask “why” questions, letting your child share his ideas about the story.

Do more. Connect the story to life through related activities to reinforce learning.

For more parenting tips, visit our 360 Parenting blog at www.

PrimroseSchools.com/360Parenting.

Stacey Kaye Hinman is the owner of Primrose School of Lake Norman, located at 173 Raceway Dr. in Mooresville. Reach her at 704.658.0460 or visit www.

PrimroseLakeNorman.com.

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Display Your Collection With Purpose By: starr miller

that this issue would focus on Action Figures, I must admit my mind raced to one of my favorite shows, “The Big Bang Theory.” I could just see those guys with their toy action figures, taking such good care of them, making sure that they were displayed just so perfectly—mostly still in the original boxes—going as far as making sure that they faced the best direction for their personal story.

When I learned

While this seems extreme, there is something to be said for channeling our inner Sheldon Cooper when we display our own collections at home. There is nothing better than to tour someone’s home as they tell us stories about where they found this or that and why this

Collection Decorating Here are some of my pointers on decorating with collectibles:

1

Keep like items together. A few here and a few there just look like clutter. When pieces are all together, it becomes a collection.

5

Make sure you have appropriate lighting over pictures, within or on shelves, behind or underneath the tabletop.

9

If you are placing these items on a wall or in a bookshelf, consider a pop of color, subtle wallpaper, or grasscloth behind them to give texture and depth to your presentation.

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Consider placing items in the order of the story you might share.

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Glass doors help keep dust away, but make sure there is lighting inside the cabinet so your collection is not lost in darkness.

10

Mix family photos with photos of favorite vacation spots. Keep these in halls or private areas of the home. They are personal reflections and should be treated as such.

item turned their head and made them start collecting in the first place.

As a designer, it is important that we learn our client’s story so that when we are tasked to manage the finishing touches of a project and decorate a bookcase or manage collectibles, we really understand what is important and why.

Whether your passion is slot cars, lunchboxes, Laliqué, teacups, or action figures—make a statement!

3

Find an old card file cabinet. Open some of the drawers and fill them with collectibles. Add plants for texture.

7

Repetition is a fundamental of design principles. Consider placing items in a formal, repeating pattern on an entire wall.

11

If you have a hodgepodge of items that belonged to your grandfather, but you love them all, lay them all out then rearrange so that the group forms a large shape.

If it were my father I would arrange his items into the overall shape of a sailboat.

Starr Miller is the president and principal designer at StarrMiller Interior Design, Inc. Contact her at 704.896.3321 or visit www.starrmiller.com.

4

Show tabletop items at different heights. Use books or boxes to vary the heights of your items.

8

If you are starting a collection, consider all one color. All white or all one type of an item makes a stunning display.

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Hang small items from a mobile.

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Real-life Action Figures:

LKN

Women

Military

Veterans By: amy hallman

For a while now, we’ve wanted to tell the stories of Lake Norman female military veterans in order to honor their service and their sacrifices. With May being the month of Memorial Day, a time in which we honor the servicemen and women who died protecting our freedom, we decided it was the perfect time to shine our spotlight on women right here in our community who have served our country.

While we hope to do similar stories in the future (we know we didn’t cover everyone!), we are so

humbled by the opportunity to talk with these women about their service and their insight.

As we interviewed our veterans, it became apparent that we shouldn’t rewrite their experiences in a traditional article format. Their own voices were already so strong— what could we add, and what would we be losing if we tried? The Q&A format seemed best, connecting readers directly to the source.

daughters, as friends. For instance, we were moved by Air Force veteran Teresa Lester who, though currently happily married to a veteran with whom she proudly shares five children (their three sons also served in the military), lost a husband, an Air Force captain, in a military plane crash in 1988.

While these women may have some experiences we can only admire from afar, we do share many commonalities as women, as leaders, as wives, as mothers, as sisters, as

As you read Teresa’s story, along with those of all the women featured here, we hope you’ll remember that freedom is not free. And while its price has sometimes

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been very high, Americans, like Teresa, Lindsay, Kathy, Lydia, and Wendi, have always been willing to pay that price. What really struck us throughout this project, is that these women and veterans feel they have even more to give. Our admiration for these women is great, and it’s our sincerest hope that their stories will inspire you and bring you great pride in their connection to our community and their commitment to our country.

teresa l e st e r

What inspired you to join the military?

I wanted to go to college, and I knew my parents couldn’t afford to send me. It was also my escape from an abusive relationship and a small town environment where I had grown up as an “ugly duckling.” In service, people accepted me as I was and actually liked me. I didn’t know how to handle that at first, but I became a leader. The Air Force brought me out of my shell and taught me that I wasn’t the only girl to survive an abusive relationship.

What was your job during your tenure?

I served during peace time, but we did practice for wars so that we were always prepared. My job description was to “calibrate, troubleshoot, and repair the test equipment used on the SRAM (Sort Range Air to Ground Missile) Missile and the FB-111 Aircraft.”

Basically, I repaired circuit cards and used oscilloscopes and power meters.

During practice wars, I wore full armor and either guarded a structure or drove a 2 ½-ton truck across the flight line to waiting planes. None of the guys in my group could drive a stick-shift, so I always got to drive the trucks!

What is one thing our citizens should understand about our military personnel?

You belong to the government 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Some weeks you work a 40-hour week and others, you work a full day and still come back in the middle of the night to fix something needed for the mission. You are subject to be sent to

war at any given time. You have no immediate family nearby unless you’re married. Still, most soldiers would do it all again if given a chance!

How has action changed for women in the military? We didn’t have women in the combat zones. If you became pregnant, you were encouraged to leave the service. At the time, my husband became an officer, so I had to leave, or he would not have advanced in rank. Just like in the outside world, women always felt like they had to prove their worth. I worked in an area that was secluded from the main base area. We shared a flip-sign bathroom; and trust me, the men didn’t want anything girly in their bathroom!

In addition to camaraderie, what do you believe to be the best aspect of the service? God always watched out for me. He was with me in basic training when my Tech. Sergeant came in Christmas morning and read to us from her Bible. This was the same person who yelled at us the day before and the day after during training. You are not only a team but the people with whom you serve become your family, a family from many different walks of life and nationalities. And I know He is with me today as I work with middle school students. I tell them, “Don’t wait until you’re grown to realize your self worth. Don’t wait until you’re grown to start caring about yourself. Don’t wait until you’re grown to reach out and help another.”

Household: Husband, Phillip, also a veteran

LKN City: Statesville

Current Employment: Career and Technical Education Teacher, Bailey Middle School

Service:

United States Air Force, 1979-1982, Senior Airman; Air Force Training ribbon; Air Force Expert Marksmanship ribbon; Outstanding Unit Award ribbon; missile man badge may 2014 |

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What inspired you to join the military? Uncle Sam, my dad’s brother, joined the Air Force in 1965. When he came home on leave after basic training, I can still remember opening the door and seeing him looking so handsome in his uniform. I was seven years old and said to him, “When I grow up, I am going to wear a uniform like that!”

So I joined the Air Force as soon as I finished school.

What was your assignment?

My first duty assignment was at Kadena Air Base on Okinawa, Japan. I had attended technical training in Denver and was trained in inventory management, procurement, and warehousing. As a delivery driver, I cross-trained on forklifts, ton-and-a-half trucks and 40-foot tractortrailers. That was a perfect fit for me because I was always on the go and could explore the whole base.

I also participated in two ‘Team Spirit’ temporary duty assignments to Korea and got to play war for two weeks in 30-belowzero weather. I didn’t serve during war time, but most of the guys I served with were still trying to get over the Vietnam experience.

Household: Husband, Scott; Son, Benjamin, an Appalachian State University student and Eagle Scout; two dogs and three cats

LKN City:

What should citizens understand about our military personnel? My military experience lasted only a little over four years—Conforming was not, and is still not, what I do best! The most valuable knowledge I brought away

Mooresville

Current Employment: Owner, Lydia! Affordable Marketing Director; associate PR liaison for Richard’s Coffee Shop and Welcome Home Vets Museum

Service:

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United States Air Force, 1977-1981 | may 2014

was there is no red, yellow, black, or white. Everyone was green and when push came to shove: we were all part of the same team working together to get a job done. I met people from all over the world and realized we were all the same deep down.

How has action changed for women in the military?

In 1977, there were some jobs that women were not allowed to do. Some of that has changed since the wars in the Middle East started. Women are now allowed to fly combat missions.

In addition to camaraderie, what’s the best aspect of the service? While some people think we don’t need troops overseas, I believe we do. Not only does it provide employment for many, it makes us nationally secure. Our soldiers do a lot of good around the world and gain experience they would never gain staying stateside. I know I would never have visited Okinawa, the Philippine Islands, Korea, or Taiwan if I hadn’t joined. It also affords many young people a sense of pride that they might otherwise never experience.

I think all young people should pull a three- or fouryear stint in the military.

While it’s not for everyone, almost anyone can do something for three or four years. I think it provides a direction and instills a discipline that you have to experience to understand.

lydia Su lliva n

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wendi am o s

Who inspired you to join the military? My grandmother proudly and respectfully raised and lowered a U.S. flag on her property every day, and insisted we tag along when she voted to demonstrate good citizenship. She was a bright student required to quit school after 7th grade to assist her family during the Great Depression. She instilled in us the value of hard work, lifelong learning, and appreciation for a free economy that enabled my grandfather to transfer his military carpentry training into a successful business after WWII. Whether it was “D” Day or Independence Day, she’d call and say, “Honey, do you know what day it is?” and invite us to watch a parade to honor vets and celebrate our land of opportunity. While the men in our family didn’t talk much about their experiences, she told us all the stories, whether good, bad, or teary-eyed; and no matter how much she worried during their service, she said it was both our duty and an honor to defend our Constitution so everyone could freely believe and speak (even if, as she often pointed out, she didn’t agree with them).

Household: Daughters, Rachel Figard (14) and Jessica Figard (13); Rescue Border Collie Mix, Aladin (2)

LKN City: Davidson

Service:

U.S. Air Force 1986-2005; Lieutenant in Royal Air Force Bentwaters, England, 1990-1993; Captain, 1993-2005 (inactive reserve force); 9th District Representative for North Carolina Veterans Affairs Commission, 2013-present

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What was your job during your tenure? Though our ROTC class had mostly trained to defend the Cold War, during our senior year, the Berlin Wall came down! Months later in August 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait. Within days, as a second lieutenant, I reported for training in Mississippi, then to England, where I spent three years as section commander of various A-10 aircraft maintenance squadrons (over 500 men and women), supporting Operation Desert Storm. My daily routine varied greatly in a three-shift, 24-7 operation. I could be swearing in a soldier for reenlistment, developing policy for whether a soldier could play Christian music in the shop, trying to explain what later becomes “don’t ask, don’t tell” to supervising sergeants, counseling and disciplining soldiers guilty of DWI, measuring body fat for those on our weight-management program, editing performance reports, presenting repair-shop awards, signing orders, or briefing troops—and end halfway through the night, holding the hand of

a family member in crisis. I recall being trained as a mortuary officer, taking munitions inventory, serving as parole officer for a convicted child molester, serving as general courts-martial jury member, volunteering as overseas IRS tax assistance volunteer and voting officer. When the war ended, our base was closed as part of the drawdown, but not before our maintenance wing won the European Command’s Daedalian Award for top aircraft maintenance unit from higher headquarters.

What should citizens understand about our military personnel? The military is more sophisticated than people think. The level of professionalism and innovation often leads, rather than follows, private industry trends.

Everyday technologies we take for granted—Internet, cellphones, or even common management tools or techniques—were first developed for military operations.

How has action changed for women in the military? In England, at 22, I looked so young that upon seeing me in uniform, a couple of Army sergeants asked if it was Halloween. Though women weren’t legally allowed combat, many were already assigned and trained for such roles. We had co-ed barracks but not always co-ed bathrooms—or sometimes no women’s facilities at all. There weren’t rules to deal with changing roles, so we just made it work. I think this paved the way to officially open jobs and advancement opportunities to women in the military.

In addition to camaraderie, what’s the best aspect of the service? Military training unequivocally prepares men and women for excellence in our civilian workforce. Emphasizing preparedness and on-the-spot adaptation through individual ingenuity, leadership, and teamwork, military service presents each with a degree of responsibility often not found a decade or more into a civilian career. Our men and women in uniform grow up more quickly than their peers, are trained in the most advanced technologies, and leave ready to transition these skills to jobs in the private and public sectors.

What inspired you to join the military? The United States Navy gave me a great opportunity to gain valuable experience as a practitioner in a challenging environment, including dealing with adversity and working with people from all walks of life.

The Navy’s excellent scholarship program helped finance my doctorate degree in dentistry in return for a service commitment on active duty.

What was your job during your tenure? My job was a general dentist providing quality dental care for sailors and Marines at the U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina. In addition to the everyday dental care, we were responsible for ensuring the dental readiness of Marines and sailors deploying for operations overseas. In 2005, I was deployed overseas in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) as a general dentist to provide dental care for 2100 U.S. Marines and sailors.

What is one thing our citizens should understand about our military personnel? Many of our servicemen and servicewomen are actually deployed overseas as a force in readiness all over the world, even if we are not in an actual conflict. A six- or sevenmonth deployment also includes about three to four months of intense training and preparation before the actual deployment, so the time away from home is immense. I primarily supported the Marines and deployed

with one of the Marine Expeditionary Units (MEU).

Marine Expeditionary Units and their Navy counterparts are deployed in different parts of the globe 365 days a year, every year, at the tip of the spear and ready to respond to any crisis large or small. This constant cycle of deployments is very hard on military families, especially the young families with children, but they learn to be resilient and adapt the best they can.

How has action changed for women in the military? Although there are some direct combatrelated military occupational specialties that are closed to women, I believe the barriers that once separated men and women have largely disappeared.

In fact, some of our best pilots are women, and we have more women in positions of command than at any point in our history.

Even the Marine Corps has opened up the Infantry to women who are physically qualified.

In addition to camaraderie, what do you believe to be the best aspect of the service? One of the best aspects of the military is what you learn about yourself and what you are capable of.

You learn at a young age that the weight of responsibility is real, and that respect is earned as a leader, never demanded. We are taught that while mission accomplishment is the first priority, we help accomplish the mission by taking care of our people and their families.

Household: Husband, Darren; expecting their first daughter, Coralyn

LKN City: Mooresville

Current Employment:

lindsay d r .

Co-partner and general dentist at LemboMontgomery Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

montgo me ry

Service: United States Navy, 2003-2011, Lieutenant, Dental Officer may 2014 |

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kathy g roc e

Who inspired you to join the military? My brother went to Vietnam, and I decided to become a flight nurse so that I could be of service to injured military. I knew that if he had been wounded that I would want him to have the best possible care.

What was your job during your tenure? As a flight nurse in the Air Reserve Component you train to do the job as if you are really going to war. We flew 2-4 hour training missions on days between drills or Unit Training Assemblies (UTA), which is the weekend per month requirement.

I did go to war on three occasions Desert Shield/Storm, in Dharan and Bateen United Arab Emirates; Iraqi Freedom in Balad, Iraq; and Enduring Freedom in Kandahar, Afghanistan.

LKN Town:

What should citizens understand about our military personnel?

War changes us. Being a part of war puts you in touch with what you’re made of—the square root of you. You come to grips with what is really important in that moment, and I don’t believe you ever forget that. Your unit becomes your family, and you know you can count on them.

When you are the most afraid that you’ve ever been, you can look around and know that they are, too.

Huntersville

Current Employment: VA Outpatient Clinic, Charlotte

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Service: United States Air Force Air National Guard and Air Force Reserves, retired after 30 years, Colonel

Also, people may not understand how well trained we are. During my first days in Iraq, a mortar hit an airman on his way to the showers, severing three of his limbs. Our job was to fly him out when he was stabilized. We did that within that same day. A

year after I returned from that deployment, I saw a front-page article about an airman who had been injured surviving a mortar blast; it was the young man we flew out. He’s now living life fully—even skiing, despite having three prosthetic limbs! To know I helped this young man survive warms my heart.

The military highly trains both leaders and followers. If your job is to fix equipment, you become the best at that. What’s hard for some is translating military training into civilian words. In some career fields the proficiency training takes years, but it can be tricky wording such a job on a civilian resumé.

Some veterans cannot find work anywhere close to the responsibilities that were once part of their daily life.

How has action changed for women in the military? Women, who are just as capable as men, can officially serve in combat; and if supported for our differences, we can make great changes for the whole.

In addition to camaraderie, what’s the best aspect of the service?

Aside from camaraderie, we share a lifelong respect. I do keep in touch with several folks who served with me in Afghanistan. Some are local, and the rest are scattered across the country. Someday, we may get together again, but meanwhile we stay in touch via texting or Facebook. Together we helped each other and our squadron through a difficult deployment, and we continue that support wherever we are.

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women o n

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For the 6th consecutive year, Kary Church Watson of Church

Watson Law in Cornelius, has been named to the 2014 North Carolina Rising Stars list by Super Lawyers. The Rising Stars list recognizes attorneys under 40 years of age or who have been in practice fewer than 10 years. Only 2.5 percent of the lawyers in North Carolina are named to the list.

Elise Scotto di Carlo has

joined Derse Morgen Financial Advisors, in Huntersville, as an executive assistant. Elise has more than 15 years in the financial services industry. She will support advisors with their daily business operations and in client relations.

Hannah Trapp, RN, BSN, is Lake Norman Regional Medical Center’s 2013 Employee of the Year.This is the hospital’s highest honor bestowed each year. Hannah, selected from among 770 employees, is a member of the orthopedic, neurology and spine department. She graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s in psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and earned her bachelor’s in nursing from Western Carolina University.

This year, the Goddard School in Mooresville launched Teach.

Play.Learn. in collaboration with Tinkertoy®.

The campaign aims to inspire 21st century readiness, imagination, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathmatics (STEM) skills in children through problemsolving and play.

StarrMiller Interior Design, in Cornelius, has been awarded

“Best Of Houzz” in both customer satisfaction and in design categories by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design.The Corneliusbased collaborative design firm was chosen by the more than 16 million monthly users that comprise the Houzz community.

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connect with us! Whether you are a woman on the move, looking for events, new businesses in the area, or are willing to contribute your opinion, follow us by visiting www.facebook.com/lakenormanwoman or e-mail amy@lakenormanwoman.com.

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“ Scene” Be Scene L a k e N o r m a n W o m a n is getting out and about each month, looking for great events and the fabulous and exciting Lake Norman people who are making them happen! So next time you’re at a chamber event, a new business in the area, or just out having fun, look for Lake Norman Woman and our camera. Who knows, you just might find yourself in next month’s

“ Scen e W i t h L a k e N orman W o man! ”

Representing the Ballas Chiropractic table at Ace & TJ’s Grin Kids Magical Luncheon

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LKNW’s Amy with Susan Johnson, from Susan Johnson & Associates and Lindsey Fisher, owner of FitEnvy, at Ace & TJ’s Grin Kids Magical Luncheon

Jill Dahan, Star ting Fresh cookbook author, speaks at the LKN Chamber Women’s Conference LKNW’s Stephanie with Dr. Heather J. Melling, from West Lake Chiropractic, and Dr. Jodie Silver, from Southeast Chiropractic: The Motion Centers

LKNW’s Stephanie and daughter Hayley Sullivan host Paint Your Pet par ty with Corks & Canvas’ Tabetha Daugher ty and Donna Mitchell

LKNW’s Amy with Judy Rose, UNC-Charlotte Athletic Director and keynote speaker at the LKN Chamber Women’s Conference

View more Scene photos & more at our Facebook page: Facebook.com/ LakeNormanWoman

LKNW’s Amy with Iron Tribe general manager Cherie Fields at Ace & TJ’s Grin Kids Magical Luncheon

Runway with a Twist par ticipants Chris Hailey, John Bradford, Craig LePage, Bill Russell, Denis Bilidea, Joshua Dobi, and Dr. Richard Rolle at the LKN Chamber Women’s Conference

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calendar

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1 0 Th i n g s An L K N

o m a n Sh o uld D o In m a y

Fri., May 2: Relay For Life of Huntersville/Cornelius

Bailey Road Park track and field 11536 Bailey Rd., Cornelius Begins at 7 p.m.

Don’t miss Relay For Life of Huntersville & Cornelius, the family-friendly event for the entire community! This annual overnight fundraising walk honors those who have been touched by cancer and allows supporters to come together to find a cure.

Sat., May 3:

Jamaica Mission Team’s Mega Marketplace and Yard Sale

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Williamson’s Chapel UMC 575 Brawley School Rd., Mooresville 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Enjoy vendors, small businesses, and local artisans as they sell thousands of items such as sports equipment, children’s toys and books, household items, and furniture. Also, there will be face painting, food, and live music. Rain date is Saturday, May 10, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

All proceeds will benefit the mission team’s 7th annual trip to the New Hope Children’s Home in Mandeville, Jamaica, and the Jamaica Deaf Village.

The 30-member team will lead Vacation Bible School, complete construction projects, and help at the orphanage.

They will also visit the Manchester Infirmary, a hospital for Jamaica’s elderly and disabled.

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Sat., May 3: Spring Into Health

Lincoln Pediatrics Clinic 113 Doctors Park, Lincolnton 11 a.m.

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Sat., May 10:

Paint the Night Blue live concert for SCAN

Sat., May 10: Hello Huntersville, Music & Arts Festival

Downtown Huntersville 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

This annual local arts celebration will include live music, demonstrations, food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, Huntersville Growers’ Market, and local businesses.

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Welcome spring with live music, free skin checks, nutrition guides, and children’s activities such as pony rides, games, and a bouncy house!

Merino’s Home Furnishings 500 S. Main St., Mooresville 5-9 p.m.

Tickets $8-10 SCAN (Stop Child Abuse Now) will hold its annual fundraiser, featuring live music by local band Too Much Sylvia, a large kids fun zone, local vendors and artists, food and beverages, and cornhole tournament (registration at 5 p.m., starts at 6 p.m.).

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Thurs., May 15: Taste of Art

The Fresh Market 20623 Torrence Chapel Rd., Cornelius 8 p.m.-10 p.m.

Tickets $3035, Information 704.896.8980

Sat., May 10: North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival

Rural Hill 4431 Neck Rd., Huntersville 12 noon-10 p.m.

See http://ncbrewsmusic.com for ticket information.

This festival is a ten-hour day with six great bands and lots of North Carolina ales and lagers—plus a few select out-of-state craft breweries. Enjoy a day of beer tasting, great food, and kids’ activities. All proceeds from North Carolina Brewers and Music Festival will go toward the preservation and advancement of Historic Rural Hill and its mission.

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The Community Arts Project will hold its annual event, featuring a wine tasting with one-ounce pours of over 30 wines, delicious food provided by the Fresh Market, and a silent auction of amazing art and other items. The store will be closed to the public during this party. Discounts on wine purchases will be available to guests.

Sat., May 17: Charlotte Asian Festival and Charlotte Dragon Boat Festival Race

Ramsey Creek Park 18441 Nantz Rd., Cornelius Heat races start at 9 a.m., Festival 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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The 15th annual Charlotte Asian Festival is a familyoriented event for the Asian and non-Asian community in and around Mecklenburg County, to celebrate Asian cultures and history. The 9th Annual Charlotte Dragon Boat Festival Race is an exciting team competition, open to anyone 15 and older, which is rich in Chinese tradition.

Please note that there is no public parking at Ramsey Creek Park. Organizers say parking is available in Kenton Place at 17220 W. Catawba Ave. with complimentary shuttle service to the festival site.

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Relay For Life of Mooresville & Lake Norman

Sat., May 17: Race City Festival

Downtown Mooresville 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

This annual outdoor street fair attracts people from all over every year, showcasing the various cultures, arts, businesses, and people. The family-oriented festival is held rain or shine. There will be 200 vendor booths, food courts, live entertainment on two stages, and a beer garden.

Mooresville High School 659 E. Center Ave., Mooresville Begins at 6 p.m.

This family-friendly overnight event brings together community members to honor cancer survivors, raise awareness about cancer risk, and raise money to help the American Cancer Society fight the disease. may 2014 |

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How did you become involved with “Extreme Weight Loss”? The bottom line is I was ready to live again.

When I wrote to Chris Powell, I had to dig deep for the courage. I knew I’d be exposing not only myself physically to the world, but raw emotion would come to the surface. Twenty-one years ago, my ex-husband left, and I began a downward spiral, letting that pain consume me. Basically, I self-sabotaged by eating with no limits.

In my letter to Chris, my emotion poured out like honey from a pot; I was real and very raw.

What does “ready to live again” mean?

I was always worried about flying because I’d need a seat belt extension. I couldn’t go to restaurants with only booth seating because I didn’t fit. At Carowinds, I’ve taken the walk of shame back down a roller coaster entrance because the safety bar wouldn’t secure. Over time, I was too embarrassed to go to a pool party because I wouldn’t be seen in a swimsuit. I missed out on water and snow skiing, which used to be two of my passions. I’d given up sporting events or theaters for fear of not fitting in the seat. My life was rapidly passing me by. But the final straw was realizing that I matter and I am worth it.

What was your routine? As a 30-year-old

working single mom, I was angry: angry about being alone and about having to raise a baby on my own. My daily routine was waking up at 6 a.m. to get my son ready and taking him to daycare; stopping for fast-food breakfast; working an 8- or 9-hour office job; of course, eating and snacking unhealthily all day; driving straight to daycare and home to eat something else unhealthy. My comfort food was fast food, pizza, and ice cream. Definitely, I was a fan of both the couch and my bed once I handled the day’s tasks. I never exercised. I was horizontal most of that period. As my son got older, my routine taught him my poor habits as he followed my lead.

Kathie Morton before her participation on “extreme weight loss” airing on ABC this season!

How has this experience inspired you?

s hie’ at k t o os! f or e r p h see o e u ur jul iss ft “ext y s” a rem e weig t los h

l i t e r a l ly !

I learned so much from Chris and his wife, Heidi, concerning health, nutrition and exercise. I learned to love myself again and to know without a doubt, my life was worth saving. I will take with me forever his saying, “Confess, Reassess, and Recommit.”

What action have you taken since coming home? Adjusting to working a full-time job is

difficult after it not being an obstacle for many months [while taping the show]. But it’s doable, and I refuse to use the excuse of “no time” because frankly, I do. Working out at 5 a.m. can be challenging; and I won’t say it’s easy, but the results are worth it!

Kathie morton LKNW recognizes a woman doing exceptional work in the Lake Norman community, a leader

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who is paving the way to changing our attitudes and inspire confidence in the future. | may 2014

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special advertising section

p i l at e s w i t h p r o ps

always seem to be the most popular muscles that women want to target when I ask what their goals are. Pilates is great for this because there is always an emphasis on those muscles throughout a well rounded Pilates program. Here are three moves that can be done at home with a Pilates Magic Circle that targets the tummy, tush, and thighs. This small piece of equipment can be purchased online, at Target, or at Dick’s.

The tummy, tush, and thighs

The Pilates Bridge

The Half Roll Back

Modified Criss Cross

s e t- u p :

s e t- u p :

s e t- u p :

Lie flat with the knees bent hip distance apart and place the circle between the thighs. The placement can vary from up high by the knees or down low by the hips. the move:

Peal the spine off the floor, starting with the tailbone and lifting up to the middle of the back (NOT to the neck) and then lower the spine down trying to articulate each vertebrae in to the floor. Repeat 10-15 times.

Or: Lift the hips up into that same bridge and pulse the circle in at the top 10 times and then roll the spine down. Repeat 10 times.

Lower the small of the back to the floor before the hips and tailbone come down. c au t i o n :

Make sure to tighten the gluteus and hamstrings as well as draw the abdominals in and up. Do not hang in the hips at the top. If the back feels uncomfortable decrease the range of motion, engage the abdominals more, or stop the movement.

Sit up right with the knees bent hip distance apart and place the circle between the thighs.

The palms are gently pressing into the sides of the thighs.

Lie flat with the knees bent, feet on the floor, and the circle between the thighs. The hands are palm over palm behind the base of the head and the elbows are wide.

the move:

Press the thighs gently into the circle and use the abdominals to tuck the tailbone under and roll back halfway. Draw the navel in deeper and roll up to the starting position. Only roll as far back as control can be maintained while keeping the feet planted to the floor.

Repeat 10-15 times.

the move:

Kristine Bjorn stad

c au t i o n :

Scoop the abdominals in, sink the ribs down, and curl up to the tips of the shoulder blades. Rotate the torso the the left and keep the right hip anchored down. Stay lifted and come to the center then rotate to the opposite side. Rotate to each side 8-10 times. c au t i o n :

Keep the shoulder blades anchored down the back the entire time. The more the neck tenses the less the abdominals do the work. Stay easy in the neck and think of lengthening it.

Make sure the elbows stay wide so the rotation comes from the trunk and not the arms and shoulders. If there is discomfort in the neck lower the head between rotations.

These are just a few moves to do at home to target popular areas. However, it is very important to strengthen the entire body and work it as a system. The body needs balanced strength to feel great and to move with proper alignment. Call Kristine Bjornstad and Perfect Form Pilates to learn more on how we can help you.

704.779.8332

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www . p e r f e c t f o r m s t u d i o . c o m

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(Conveniently located off exit 28 in the Shops at The Fresh Market)

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Story of

Life

By: leslie ogle | photography: chelsea bren

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h i l e i t was Oscar Wilde who opined “Life imitates art far more than art imitates life,” Lynne Gingras, owner of Andre Christine Gallery in Mooresville, agrees wholeheartedly.

With a passion for art and a zest for living life fully, Lynne found that art also propels her into action and leaves a lasting impression.

However, Lynne has been known to leave the lasting impression herself, especially on her husband, Dana Andre. “I was so young,” Lynne recalls. “We met at a gas station. He was the attendant, and I was a customer. The first time he saw me he told a buddy, ‘See that girl in the Buick? I’m going to marry her someday.’ Three years later we married; I was only 19.”

Forty-four years and four kids later, Lynne and Dana now enjoy watching their children and grandchildren find their niche in the world.

But the journey of their young married life was not without its twists and turns. Originally from Connecticut, Lynne soon found herself ensconced in the military life with no shortage of travel, moving, and the inevitable adjustments.

“My career was in the medical field,” she explains, “and Dana was in college for electrical engineering. During the Vietnam War, he was drafted and joined the Navy. We traveled all over Europe and even lived in Spain.”

After he was discharged, the couple raised their four children, two girls and two boys in Connecticut. Once all their children graduated college and were on their own, Lynne and Dana again marked boxes “fragile,” packed up, and moved to North Carolina. “We have been here 10 years,” Lynne says. “We absolutely love it and have never looked back.”

Lynne’s call to action into the world of art began fairly early in her life. Although she and Dana

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Lynne Gingras Andre Christine gallery mooresville, nc

were in their respective careers and raising a family, Lynne had a creative, artistic hunger that couldn’t be stifled. With an eye for color and design and an unquenchable desire to open her gallery, Lynne knew the timing was right and Andre Christine Gallery was born.

“When I’m on a project, I have no clock,” Lynne shares. “My only vision is what I’m focused on, and I’m driven until it’s complete. This gallery is my baby. I waited 40 plus years to do this, and I’m living my passion. I truly love what I do.”

When she is not matching the perfect art to its new owner, Lynne enjoys gardening, reading, cooking, and travel. She would

like to visit the west coast wine country, Alaska, Italy, and perhaps more European museums, having already seen the Louvre and the Prado.

But for now, Lynne is grateful for her life just the way it is: “I appreciate each and every day. I always tell my kids that no one knows how long we’re here, so enjoy it! Stop complaining and be kind. Life is precious and too short. Your world could turn upside down in a second. I have always said, ‘Let’s face the next chapter.’ Life is a book; we live and experience new chapters with every turn, so approach the new one with enthusiasm and vigor. Let us keep turning pages until the end. Life is your story.”

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better me

…

better you

…

better world

Mind Body Spirit The mind, body, and spirit are intimately connected. Because unhealthy thoughts and emotions can create a vicious cycle that leads to unhealthy physical patterns, we can choose a victorious path that includes a positive, healing, uplifting spiral. By mixing the ingredients of attitude and action, we can change the flavor of our own lives. Learn to nurture your body and soul to lead a more balanced life.

for the body

You Have to Keep Moving By: John J. Ballas, D.C.

M y fat h e r , Demetrios Antonios

Balatsias, came to this country in 1955 with $12 in his pocket at almost 27 years old. He could not read, write, nor speak the language, though he was determined to make a life for himself—with honesty, integrity, and hard work. He moved to Charlotte later that year, and opened the first of several restaurants in 1960.

My father’s journey to become someone was my first philosophical lesson about mobility: if you want to live, you have to keep moving.

To be successful in life, personally or professionally, it requires work. You have to take the steps because you can’t get there by just thinking about it.

Years ago, in a college course, I was asked, “What is the most important factor to living a quality life?” The answer is health. It is the single-most game changer regarding a life of action vs. one of inertia. In fact, the two things that people want most as they age is to maintain their physical and their mental mobility. Without health, we have nothing.

Mobility is crucial to well-being; it’s the very fiber with which we effectively operate our lives, accomplish our responsibilities,

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and drive toward our larger dreams. It takes energy—and energy requires good health.

Mobility is simply the ability to move, and it’s closely linked to ability, the capacity to act physically, mentally, or morally. Physical mobility involves moving the body, including the extremities, independently and purposely with ease and without restriction. Mental mobility is purposeful cerebral movement— thinking or processing— such as taking an idea to fruition, taking action, or making a change. Mobility has been a predominant theme in my life, especially since opening our practice. My wife, Donna, and I share a vision to help as many people as possible achieve positive health, to facilitate a positive life. We’ve exercised the mental mobility from the time we opened the doors on borrowed money in 2003, to the year we expanded 1,200 square feet in 2007, to bringing in Dr. Tyler Slabaugh, in January 2010, who truly shares our vision of service to move people in their bodies and in their lives.

As chiropractors, we know to keep people physically moving is to improve the rest of their lives. In every consultation, I say, “Joints are designed to move. They get

their nutrition through motion. The first sign of degenerative joint disease is the misalignment or fixation of that joint. Tell me what drug will get that joint moving so it doesn’t die?” The mentality the patient brings is the commitment to be purposefully healthy from the inside out, and partners with us, as doctors, to make that happen.

The night before my father passed suddenly in 2009, he said to me, “Don’t do what I did [work this hard] to the detriment of your health.” This stuck with me ever since. You can’t tackle your dreams, or even take care of your family, unless you take care of yourself first. We have to do our best to stay physically and mentally mobile to remain able: able to be doers, able to make a difference, able to think, act, and move with positivity and purpose.

Life is meant to be enjoyed; it makes all the hard work worth every step.

Dr. John J. Ballas has been practicing chiropractic medicine for 16 years. He is a certified chiropractic sports physician, specializing in Cox flexion distraction technique, applied kinesiology, acupuncture and Kennedy spinal decompression.

For more information about Ballas Chiropractic, call 704.896.8080 or visit. www.ballaschiropractic.com.

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