Kids and PetsUnconditional Love
I hope this letter finds you in good health and high spirits.
This issue is always one of my favorites. I suppose because of the immense joy that children bring to their families and the significant impact they make on their communities.
Children are not merely the hope for a brighter tomorrow; they are the foundation upon which our society stands. Their innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential have the power to shape the world in ways we can only imagine. Kids represent our hardest work and greatest investment and we are happy to highlight the best for Charlotte kids in this issue.
Secondarily, who could forget pets? The special kind of companionship can be a transformative experience for children and adults alike. Pets provide us with unconditional love, the opportunity to learn, grow and develop essential life skills in a nurturing environment. And who could ignore the bond between kids and their furry or feathery friends? The bond is often deep and meaningful, fostering qualities like empathy, responsibility, and companionship.
My family has always been a feline household due to our love of their independent but quirky personalities. My longest companion was a male black and white mix that I found at the local upstate New York Humane Society in 1991. His name was Pennington, he was my travel companion, moving buddy and all around “wingcat” for 17 years of my life. Animals are the best unconditional love and judge free companions to be found and he supported me during many critical life changing times of my life.
Although children are of infinitely more value, what children and pets share in common is that they need us. Our care, attention and intention shapes how they are raised and who they become. We hope this issue inspires you to pour a little extra into the children and pets in your life this month.
Cheers!
TERI A LENHARD, PUBLISHER @SOUTHCHARLOTTELIFESTYLE
August 2024
PUBLISHER
Teri A Lenhard | teri.lenhard@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Kylie Brooks | kylie.brooks@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brooklyn Brown, Michelle Parnell
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Matty Martin, Jordan Rogers, Brooklyn Brown
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Otto
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
Millie
Family’s Forever Home
Discussing
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Spring Fest at Tyndall Furniture 2: KDI Protective Services local Team at launch of Community Based Protection Training program 3: Thomas Jones & Sloan Bycura from Delta Defense and the USCCA, Vendor at KDI Launch. 4: Tyndall Furniture Spring Fest Vendors educating attendees and fun give aways! 5: Hanging out at Waxhaw Skate Park! 6: “Make Good Choices” Ovarian Cancer Awareness Event with Teal Butterfly at Waxhaw Taphouse!
TERI LENHARD
TERI LENHARD
TERI LENHARD
BROOKLYN BROWN
Photography by Brooklyn Brown
business monthly
Matty Martin
I’m Matty Martin! I have been a photographer and a business owner for almost 10 years. I have a passion for turning your most special moments into lifelong memories for friends and family to share. Looking to turn your special moments into heartwarming memories? Whether it’s marking a milestone, capturing the essence of your loved ones, or simply cherishing the beauty of now, I’m here to help tell your story through heartfelt photos and videos.
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Stars and Strikes Entertainment Center
Check out this fun-filled family destination, with locations in Concord, NC and Rock Hill, SC! This is your one-stop shop for all things fun. Enjoy fullsized bowling alleys, arcade games, bumper cars, axe throwing, and much more. Don’t forget to check out their birthday party packages and frequent discounted activities listed on the website for each location.
Better Brain & Body with Dr. Alicia Brown
Better Brain & Body is a holistic wellness center that focuses on improving mental and physical health through integrated approaches. They offer a range of services including brain based therapies, nutritional guidance, chiropractic care, and weight loss programs. Dr. Alicia Brown, owner and Chiropractic Neurologist, creates personalized plans that promote well-being and brain health. The center is designed to provide a supportive environment where individuals achieve balance, enhance cognitive function, and improved quality of life.
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Fun around Town
MILLIE RIVERA SHARES 4 LOCAL SPOTS PERFECT FOR KIDS
Millie Rivera, owner of Freecoat Nails Waverly, enjoys spending time with her family at home, cooking and playing board games. The family also enjoy themed dinner nights where they listen to music that reflects the culture of the dish they are cooking. When it’s time to go out with the kids, however, Rivera has several go-to local spots for family fun.
David G Barnes Park
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTY MARTIN
1 Little Mama’s Restaurant / “They create a space so that families can go, spend time together, and enjoy the moment. My kids love eating their pizzas, penne alla vodka, and bread pudding dessert.” 2 Skatepark & playground in downtown Waxhaw/ “My little one enjoys getting on the swings, all the slides, and playing with other kids on the playground. My boys love going to the skate park because they can take their bike or skateboard and use all the ramps. It is fun for them to be around other kids who enjoy the same sports.” 3 Waxhaw Creamery/ “We like going to get ice cream as a family. We get to spend quality time together, catch up, talk about goals, and all the fun things.” 4 Bowlero in Matthews/ “We love bowling as a family and my kids are very competitive, so playing games is fun.”
1/ Little Mama’s Restaurant
2/ Waxhaw Skate Park
3/ Waxhaw Creamery
4/ Bowlero
DISCUSSING TWO OF OUR MOST HOSPITABLE NEIGHBORHOODS AND WHAT MAKES THEM PERFECT FOR ANY FAMILY.
Whether you have kids, fur-babies, or both— you can find the perfect environment for your family right here in South Charlotte’s best suburban districts. Thomas Rackley is a realtor located in the Tega Cay area, and he can’t help but recommend the very community where he has found a place for his own family.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
BROOKLYN BROWN
“Well I guess I am kind of partial to it since I live in Tega Cay,” Rackley said. “But I would definitely say with all of the walking trails we have, the lake access, and the golf course community– it is really special for kids.”
Tega Cay is separated into two sections. One section is known as Old Tega Cay, and the other is called New Tega Cay. Old Tega Cay makes up the original waterfront community that is characterized by the peninsula it’s built on and Lake Wylie, which surrounds it. New Tega Cay expands south-eastward inland, and has a
variety of newer infrastructure. Each section of the small, residential town has its own benefits according to Rackley.
“[Old Tega Cay] has parks like Windjammer,” Rackley said. “In Windjammer park there is actually a beach access on the lake and then they do ski shows on the weekends. There is a lot of attraction to that area.”
Old Tega Cay provides a friendly, walkable environment. New Tega Cay resides slightly closer to the city making it a higher traffic area. Despite this, it maintains the same family-oriented feel as its older counterpart.
“ DOWNTOWN FORT MILL IS A REALLY COOL PLACE TO TAKE YOUR KIDS ”
“[The] new area of Tega Cay that they’ve built up now [is] called Lake Ridge. They’ve built a huge outdoor park there called Catawba.” Rackley said.
Catawba Park is within walking distance from Lake Ridge residences. The park hosts celebratory functions and concerts throughout the summer. Catawba Park has well-kept fields for soccer and baseball, and it hosts sporting events frequently. The park provides a playground and walking trails, making it a great public area to spend time with your family and furry-friends.
Tega Cay’s sister-village sits just east of it and provides its own perks. With its quaint town-center and family-centric foundation, Fort Mill is a great place to call home.
“Downtown Fort Mill is a really, really cool place to take your kids,” Rackley said.
From artisan markets, seasonal events, park access, and more— Fort Mill has a variety of ways it builds the strength of its community. Rackley recommends Fort Mill’s Crossroads Sports Bar & Grill because of its unique pet-friendly atmosphere; his own dog seconds this recommendation.
“[Crossroads] is a cool little restaurant with a huge fenced-in backyard and there are always a lot of dogs out there,” Rackley said. “ I’ve got a german shepard and I love to take him.”
Above all, both the Fort Mill and Tega Cay area offer one thing that remains of utmost importance for most families who are looking to settle down— the school systems.
“Our schools are great, especially being located near Charlotte,” Rackley said. “Year after year we have the best schools [in the state] and that is a huge attraction to this area.”
Working in real estate, Rackley continues to find himself recommending the area to clients because of its unmatched atmosphere.
“Every time I meet families that are looking to move to the Charlotte area, I point them to this area because of the school systems and the quality of life down here,” Rackley said. “We don’t have all of the traffic that Charlotte has, and it is not as cluttered yet.”
If you are ready to create memories in your forever home, you might just find the right place in Tega Cay or Fort Mill.
TEACHING KIDS SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST HOW TO PLAY A GAME
Chess Klub
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL
I love chess for its blend of strategy, intellect, and creativity.
In 2019, with a vision of helping kids through the game of chess, Archana Kolangara founded CHESS club from her home and continues to grow locally and internationally with her husband, Sudev Rajah, as an integral supporting partner. Since then, the program has grown to encompass clubs in 5 cities with 8 centers.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE GAME OF CHESS?
I love chess for its blend of strategy, intellect, and creativity. It’s a game that challenges players to think several steps ahead, anticipate their opponent’s moves, and adapt their strategies in real-time.
The balance between offense and defense, the intricate maneuvers, and the endless possibilities on the board make each game unique and exciting.
Chess also has a rich history and a sense of tradition that adds depth to the experience. Whether it’s a casual game or a high-stakes tournament, chess offers a profound mental workout and a deep sense of satisfaction from mastering its complexities.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT WHAT YOU DO THROUGH CHESS KLUB?
I enjoy the opportunity to promote the game of chess and make it accessible to a wide audience. It’s rewarding to see people, especially young learners, develop critical thinking skills, patience, and strategic planning through chess.
The community aspect is also a highlight—bringing people together, fostering friendships, and creating
a supportive environment for learning and competition. Organizing tournaments and events is exciting, as it brings out the best in players and creates memorable experiences. Overall, the blend of education, community, and the joy of the game itself makes working with Chess Klub deeply fulfilling.
WHAT IS THE TARGET AGE RANGE FOR KLUB MEMBERS?
98% of our students are in the age range of 5 to 15 years.
HOW IS PLAYING CHESS BENEFICIAL FOR KIDS?
The kids make a lot of friends and develop a social circle. They also learn important life lessons while playing chess including developing patience, the power of shortterm sacrifice for long-term benefit, and good versus bad trades. It’s a great way to exercise the brain because there is always something new to learn from chess.
WHAT SERVICES, PROGRAMS, AND ACTIVITIES DO YOU OFFER THROUGH CHESS KLUB?
Through Chess Klub, we offer a variety of services, programs, and activities to cater to chess enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. These offerings aim to nurture a passion for chess, enhance cognitive abilities, and create a supportive and inclusive chess-playing community.
1. Coaching Classes: Personalized and group coaching sessions for beginners, intermediate, and advanced players to improve their skills and understanding of the game.
Chess is an art, science, and a sport. “ ”
2. Tournaments: Regularly organized USCF Rated chess tournaments for different skill levels, providing competitive opportunities and fostering a spirit of sportsmanship.
3. Workshops: Special workshops led by chess masters and experts to delve into advanced strategies, historical games, and chess theory.
4. Mentorship Program – Guide & mentor our students to help them take their game to the next level.
5. Chess Camps: Intensive chess camps during school holidays, focusing on comprehensive skill development, including tactics, openings, middlegame, and endgame.
6. After-School Programs: Structured programs in schools to introduce students to chess, enhance their problem-solving skills, and promote cognitive development.
7. Community Events: Fun and engaging community events such as chess nights, chess in the park, chess carnival and themed chess parties to build a vibrant chess community.
8. Online Chess Classes: Virtual coaching sessions and online tournaments to reach a wider audience and provide flexible learning options.
9. Chess Clubs: Support in establishing and managing chess clubs in schools and communities, including
providing resources and organizing inter-club matches.
10. Chess Merchandise: Sale of chess-related products such as boards, pieces, books, and training materials to support players in their journey.
11. Special Programs: Tailored programs for corporate teams, seniors, and special needs groups to use chess as a tool for team building, mental agility, and therapeutic benefits (This is yet to be finalized)
WHAT WOULD YOU LOVE FOR READERS TO KNOW?
A chess match between two minds requires a constant amount of attention and concentration, which triggers every neuron in the brain, making chess the key to nurturing a young mind. Chess is an art, science, and a sport. Chess is great for the mind & soul.
At CHESS KLUB, we’re driven to redefine chess education for learners of all ages and abilities through the fusion of innovative teaching approaches, technology, personalized learning journeys and AI-driven insights while taking their personal experience of students to the next level.
For more information, visit chessklub.com or call (704) 248-6999. Also follow Chess Klub on Facebook and Instagram.
CHIROPRACTIC CARE for kids
DR. CHRIS WRIGHT HELPS KEEP KIDS HAPPY AND HEALTHY
ARTICLE BY MICHELLE W. PARNELL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN ROGERS
A high school sports injury landed Dr. Chris Wright in the office of a dual-licensed doctor who specialized in both physical therapy and chiropractic care. That experience impacted him so powerfully, it changed his career path.
“He was very passionate and wanted his patients to achieve optimal health,” explained Wright. “This always stuck with me and caused me to pursue an exercise science degree in undergrad, eventually making the choice to go into the same field.”
Now, Dr. Chris, as his patients call him, impacts the lives of kids and adults through chiropractic care at Integrative Chiropractic & Natural Medicine.
“I enjoy watching the change in not just patients’ pain levels but their attitude as a whole throughout treatment,” he shared. “There is nothing more rewarding than to see someone who could barely walk, stand, bend, or had to give up what they love most due to an injury and see them come through it all and get back to their old selves naturally.”
Adults have the capability of realizing their need for chiropractic care, but with children, it is often up to parents and caregivers to observe behaviors that indicate that a child would benefit from chiropractic care. Babies who are colicky, fussy, constipated, or have gas issues may find relief with minor adjustments. Infants experiencing shoulder dysplasia or torticollis, where neck muscles cause the head to tilt to one side, are also candidates for chiropractic care.
I believe what our practice does best is making sure each individual has plans tailored to their needs
“When my daughter was born, she had some shoulder dysplasia, so I did muscle work on her to stretch her shoulder out,” he said. “I’ve also seen a lot of babies with gas issues or constipation and a pelvic adjustment, or some muscle work, can ease that up a bit.”
As children get older, become more active, and participate in sports, injuries become more common.
“I treat a lot of dancers, football players, and baseball players with different injuries especially to knees, elbows, and shoulders,” Wright explained. “When they come in, I do a comprehensive exam, get a history, ask questions, and get input from the parents. I do additional testing as needed and I only take x-rays if they are medically necessary.”
Once the problem has been correctly identified, Wright discusses a treatment plan with the parents which often includes a combination of deep muscle tissue massage, laser therapy, and working with soft tissue using the Graston technique.
Wright also successfully works with kids who struggle with other medical conditions such as migraines and scoliosis. In fact, he recommends that parents have their children checked for scoliosis on a yearly basis by a medical professional who can recognize the signs.
“You would be surprised how many kids I get in their high school years that the scoliosis wasn’t noticed until they were 13 or 14 years old, when in reality, they had it for years before that,” he shared. “If you’re concerned about scoliosis, for example you notice a muscular imbalance, chiropractic is one of the less expensive options and we’re knowledgeable when it comes to scoliosis. We can set up corrective care, like a brace, and help a lot with symptoms.”
Wright encourages parents who have concerns to schedule an appointment, have a comprehensive exam, and explore treatment possibilities to ensure their children are healthy and happy.
“I believe our office has a large toolbox when it comes to what we can provide for our patients,” he said. “We are able to cover a lot of areas with our patient’s health whether it’s chiropractic, massage, or nutrition. I believe what our practice does best is making sure each individual has a plan tailored to their needs.”
Find Dr. Chris Wright at the Matthews office of Integrative Chiropractic & Natural Medicine located at 12043 Guion Lane. For more information, visit www.integrativechironc.com or call (704) 684-0093.
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Dr. Chris Wright
KATIE KICKERTZ D.D.S., M.S., BOARD-CERTIFIED ENDODONTIST
As a local, female, and board-certified endodontist, Dr. Kickertz provides more than just treatment; she offers empathy and expertise. Whether you’re a patient in need or a doctor seeking a reliable referral, Premier Endodontics is your go-to source for dental pain and root canal emergencies.
summer is POPSICLE SEASON
KIDS AND POPSICLES ARE THE PERFECT SUMMERTIME PAIR
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
As temperatures rise, children race to the freezer for this frosty treat or wait anxiously for the approach of the musical ice cream truck. Making homemade popsicles is a fun, kidfriendly activity. These recipes feature kid-favorite flavors with an added taste twist. The only tricky part is waiting for them to freeze.
SPICED GRAPE POPSICLES
ingredients:
Makes 18 to 24
• 2 quarts Concord grape juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 12 whole cloves
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• 3 tablespoons whole allspice
directions:
Put all of the ingredients into a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to barely a simmer and let it cook for 30 minutes. Remove from the heat and pour the juice through a cheesecloth-lined strainer into a bowl or pitcher to remove the spices. Allow the juice to cool to room temperature, and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.
CHERRY LIMEADE POPSICLES
ingredients:
Makes 18 to 24
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup lime juice
• 2 cups tart cherry juice
directions:
In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat. Add the cherry juice and taste. Add additional sugar or water if needed. Let come to room temperature and then refrigerate until well chilled. Pour mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze until firm.
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
AUGUST 1ST
Niners in Tech
1000 W. Morehead S, Suite 200 | 5:30 PM
Join us at this awesome networking event, geared towards those in the tech industry, and hosted by UNCC Alumnus, Evan Lambeth!
AUGUST 3RD
Educator Day at Museum of the Waxhaws!
Museum of the Waxhaws | 10:00 AM
Free Museum Admission for all School Employees! We will be hosting a free educator day to promote our programming, field trip, and school spirit night opportunities for the 2024-2025 school year! Please email museumofthewaxhaws0@gmail.com with any questions!
AUGUST 3RD
NoDa Bizarre
Johnston YMCA | 3:00 PM
Hosted by NoDa Business Association, NoDa Arts Festival will be featuring artists, musicians, live art demonstrations, and more!
AUGUST 3RD
Norfolk Tides vs Charlotte Knights
Truist Field | 6:00 PM
Spend an evening at the ballpark watching our home team, the Charlotte Knights! They will be taking on the Norfolk Tides and it is sure to be a game you don’t want to miss!
AUGUST 8TH
Disney’s The Lion King
Belk Theatre | 2:00 PM
Hakuna Matata! Grab the kids and come out to experience this one of a kind show!
AUGUST 9TH
Colonial Day at Museum of the Waxhaw’s
8215 Waxhaw Hwy Waxhaw, NC 28173 | 10:00 AM
Come join us at the Museum of the Waxhaws for a Colonial Day event! Explore the colonial period with interactive crafts, hands-on activities, and a goodie bag! It’s a perfect way to kick off your week with some fun!
AUGUST 16TH
Summer Music Series- Run Katie Run
Under the Watertower in Downtown Waxhaw | 7:00 PM
Bring a lawn chair, some snacks and your dancing shoes to get down to some tunes under the Water Tower in Downtown Waxhaw!
AUGUST 24TH
SafeGuard Self Defense Class
East City Church | 11:00 AM
Have you always wanted to learn self-defense, but never found the time? Then look no further! This 2 hour course will teach you many self-defense tactics and moves to ensure that you are able to protect yourself. Grab your tickets now because spots are limited!
AUGUST 24TH
Pickle for a Purpose
Charlotte Tennis and Pickleball (Sharon Lakes Rd) | 11:30 AM
Charity Pickleball tournament, hosted by Rise Together International, with 100% of the proceeds going towards their foundation! Entry tickets include open bar and food! Come out and support a great cause, have a drink, and play some pickleball!
AUGUST 24TH
Tacos n’ Taps Festival
Ballantyne’s Backyard | 12:00 PM
Grab your ticket and enjoy over 60 different drink options including beer, wine, margaritas and more! Don’t forget to stop by the numerous food trucks and get your taco fix!
AUGUST 28TH
Imagine Dragons
PNC Music Pavilion | 7:00 PM
Grab your friends and jam out to some tunes under the summer skyline. Don’t forget to grab your tickets in advance!
AUGUST 31ST
Matthews Alive Festival
Stumptown Park, Matthews, NC | 6:00 PM
Enjoy live music, food trucks, vendors and more at the annual 3 day Matthews Alive Festival!
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