{ H E R E she
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AN LKN WOMAN WHO PERSONIFIES WHAT MAKES LAKE NORMAN WOMEN SO GREAT
Who helped guide your heart?
My mom is definitely my inspiration. She was a strong, single woman from Vietnam who spoke little English. She taught me and my sister to be independent, never accept handouts, and have a hard work ethic so we could provide for ourselves. Most importantly, she taught us to be thankful, especially for the opportunities we have in the United States. She was a great example of always being hospitable to guests in our home.
What brought you to the Lake Norman area?
My fiancé and I love the lake and we wanted to move closer to it, so now we live in Mooresville. We love the water and the lifestyle—and easy access to all the wonderful shops and restaurants.
What makes your heart sing?
It makes me happy to help and bring people together … inspiring and empowering others. I am also passionate about leading my team. I love watching a business grow. Growing the people on your team is a very important part of success. I’m also a big animal lover and absolutely love music, especially live music! Music moves me.
flame B. D E A L
H O M E TO W N : S TAT E S V I L L E , N C , V I A E A S T A F R I C A
What roadblocks have you faced and how did you cope?
My biggest obstacle was adjusting to a different lifestyle after having my own business in New York City. I started working at Rock Barn right after returning to the area, and it took time to adjust. I struggled so much as a child, coming from overseas to fit into life in a small southern town. Sometimes I notice that the fearful feeling to fit in is still ingrained in me, but I recognize that and move on. It is how you embrace your feelings and how you react—I choose to react with gratitude and joy.
i am an LKNw oman because… It’s my home! Even through all the glitz and glamour of New York City, I’m home again here. I’m still that girl who loves making people happy, and I am blessed and very grateful to call Lake Norman home.
C O L L E G E : E A S T C A RO L I N A U N I V E R S I T Y L K N TO W N : M O O R E S V I L L E HOUSEHOLD: FIANCÉ, JOEL SPRINKLE; A U S T R A L I A N S H E P H E R D, C R A S H
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22 LKN
| FEBRUARY 2018
Flame B. Deal is the assistant general manager of Rock Barn Country Club & Spa. They are located at 3791 Clubhouse Drive in Conover. You may reach Flame at 828.459.3616, via email at events@rockbarn.com, spa@rockbarn.com, or visit www.rockbarn.com By: Michelle Love | Photography By: Toni L. Lovejoy