APPRECIATING THE BEAUTY OF NORTH CAROLINA EXPERT TIPS TO KEEP YOU ORGANIZED
Heather Brown, Mike Brown, Roy Sansbury and Rosa Sansbury, at Farms
PHOTOGRAPH
TARA BOTERO
Cork & Ale is a place to commemorate historical Waxhaw while looking ahead to its vibrant future. Located across from Waxhaw’s historic bridge and train tracks, our interesting history does not stop at our doorstep, as we are in the first building to serve alcohol in Waxhaw.
Come see us and you’ll find an extensive collection of hand-selected fine wines by the glass and bottle, a craft beer bottle-shop and taproom, and delicious dishes, from small plates to entrées. Our best kept secret is a delicious, thoughtful menu, but our best feature is an amazing team.
We take pride in treating every guest as a valued member of our family. We offer online sales with delivery and curbside pickup with payment as well.
Editor’s Note
Hey Y’all!
I can’t believe it’s already August. Another record hot summer is halfway gone, and I’m already looking forward to the autumn breezes and fall activities. While summer isn’t over, it is certainly wrapping up. The school year is right around the corner and the apple cider cravings are starting to rise. What are y’all most excited about for fall?
Well, since it’s still summer for a little while longer, I suggest you find a cool and shady spot to chill with this month’s issue! Take a ride through the Carolinas with the photo essay from Rory Hickey. Or, grab a camping spot at Cane Creek Park and take a walk to the meadow of Schweinitz’s Sunflower, an endangered flower species native to the Carolinas. Perhaps you’re ready to get your own slice of the Carolinas and settle down with the help of Farms & Estates Realty. While you’re at it, check out this month’s adoptable pets we’re featuring, and consider adding a sweet adoptable dog or cat to your family. Whatever your plans for the rest of the summer, Waxhaw is here to offer some great recommendations.
As always, I love to hear from the community so please reach out with your favorite fall activities, your art and your ideas to Tara.Botero@WaxhawMagazine.com.
Stay cool!
A. Tara Botero Local Editor
Waxhaw MAGAZINE
Publisher
David Johnson
Group Publisher
David Johnson
Local Editor A. Tara Botero
Art Director Sue Park
Writers
Dr. Susan Bonilla, MS, CVA, CCRP, CACP, A. Tara Botero, Amee Odum, Lisa Brady, Jenifer Shaw, Rory Hickey
Photographer Paul Boskovich
WAINSCOT MEDIA
Chairman
Carroll V. Dowden
President and CEO
Mark Dowden
VP, Group Publisher, Regional Thomas Flannery
VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan
Creative Director Kijoo Kim
Associate Editor
Sophia Carlisle
Editor
Lee Lusardi
Advertising Services Director
Jacquelynn Fischer
Operations Director
Catherine Rosario
Production Designer Chris Ferrante
Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam
Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden
Waxhaw magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Waxhaw, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2024 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
PHOTOGRAPHS BY PAUL BOSKOVICH
Carolina Wood Classics
Specializing in Custom Wood Craftsmanship
Specializing In Custom Wood Craftsmanship
DISCOVER
Stephen J. Soutier Sr.
WHAT’S NEW Around Town
THE A.W. HEATH COMPANY BUILDING
The A.W. Heath Company, a prominent fixture in Waxhaw’s mercantile history, is housed in a two-and-a-half-story building dating back to around 1898. To accommodate the expanding trade, a one-story commercial building was added in approximately 1903. Additionally, a frame barn, initially constructed in 1910 to house a mill, was renovated in 1983 and now hosts the Waxhaw Tack Exchange (refer to Waxhaw’s July issue for more information).
Operating from 1906 to 1966, the A.W. Heath Company was one of Waxhaw’s most successful mercantile enterprises. The building, designed in the Romanesque Revival style, proudly displays original signage advertising “Groceries, Hardware, Furniture, and Wagons & Buggies.” These painted signs extend to several adjacent buildings, which also served as A.W. Heath Company storefronts.
Notably, the building houses one of the country’s oldest elevators. Before becoming A.W. Heath Company, the premises were occupied by McCain Mercantile, starting around 1898. The rich history and architectural significance of the A.W. Heath Company building make it a cherished landmark in Waxhaw.
More information can be found at: https://www.waxhaw.com/our-town/history or at https://www.waxhaw.com/i-want-to/learn-about/historic-landmarks.
AUGUST EVENTS IN WAXHAW
• August 16
MUSIC IN THE PARK
7-9 p.m. at the Downtown Park
Run Katie Run will be performing live!
• September 6
WAXHAW SK8
6-8 p.m. at the SK8 Park
Join Parks and Rec and Elephit Skate Shop to watch, skate and learn about skateboarding.
• September 15
SHE TRIS SPRINT TRIATHLON Huntersville
Join She Tris for a 250yard swim, 9-mile bike and a 2-mile run. Sign up at: https://runsignup.com/ shetrishuntersville
She Tris medals await competitors.
Top: The connected buildings sporting the original painted advertisements now house Capricci’s True Italian, Provision’s Waxhaw and The Bean and Belle. Bottom: The A.W. Health Company building now houses a few different stores, including the Waxhaw Antique Mart.
Gear Up for Fall in Downtown Waxhaw!
Fall is our favorite time in Waxhaw. And we have TONS going on in October!
Mark your calendars now for these great events!
Friday, October 4 –First Fridays
First Fridays is our monthly celebration that showcases our downtown community’s spirit, diversity and creativity! The events feature live music, delicious food, art exhibits, promotional offers and activities all in our unique downtown shops and restaurants.
First Fridays is hosted by the Downtown Waxhaw Association and downtown businesses. Visit downtownwaxhaw.com to learn more!
Saturday, October 12 & Sunday, October 13 –Autumn Treasures
Stroll the streets of Downtown Waxhaw during our annual fall festival, Autumn Treasures!
This two-day event is our largest festival of the year, featuring food trucks, craft vendors, a kids’ zone, live music and more! The town also provides easy-to-access shuttles, so you don’t have to worry about parking!
Autumn Treasures is put on by the Town of Waxhaw’s Parks & Recreation Event Team. Visit waxhaw.com/ events for more information!
Saturday, October 19 – Ladies Night Out
We are excited to host our first Ladies Night Out Shopping event this fall! Join us on Saturday, October 19 and shop ‘til you drop! This event will feature swag bags, fun activities and great food and drinks! This event is sponsored by our Downtown Waxhaw Association and downtown businesses. Visit downtownwaxhaw.com to learn more!
Saturday, October 26 – Fright Night
Everyone’s favorite Halloween event returns on Saturday, October 26. Get your family all dressed up and visit downtown for trick-ortreating at our great small businesses! Photo-ops and other activities will be located throughout downtown. Extend your day by sticking around for dinner and live music at one of our great downtown restaurants or bars!
This event is hosted by the Town of Waxhaw’s Business Development Team, in partnership with the Downtown Waxhaw Association and downtown businesses. Visit downtownwaxhaw.com to learn more.
Be sure to follow Downtown Waxhaw’s social media pages (@downtownwaxhaw) for all the latest news. Use the QR code right to sign up for our newsletter for more information on how to support local businesses all summer long.
Mastering Kitchen Organization for Efficiency and Ease
Check out these tips and tricks to help you keep your home clean and tidy.
A well-organized kitchen is the cornerstone of efficient meal preparation, seamless snacking and smooth family feeding. By understanding and implementing the concept of “prime real estate,” you can transform your kitchen into a functional and visually appealing space.
Prime Real Estate
The principle of prime real estate in kitchen organization is simple: Items you use most frequently should be easily accessible. This saves time and effort, ensuring you can whip up meals quickly. For instance, place glasses next to the refrigerator, coffee cups near the coffee maker and stack dishes on a shelf with dividers for easy reach from the dishwasher.
Accessibility of Cookware
Pots and pans should be readily accessible. Use lifts or dividers in cabinets to avoid the hassle of lifting heavy stacks to reach the one you need. This not only makes
BY JENIFER SHAW
cooking more efficient but also reduces strain and clutter.
Countertop Essentials
Leave everyday items on the counter for convenience. Keep your toaster, mixer, fruit basket and essential condiments like salt and pepper within easy reach. These items can also serve as decorative elements, adding charm to your kitchen while maintaining functionality.
Coffee Station
If coffee is a morning staple, set up a coffee station with cups, coffee and the coffee maker. This setup streamlines your morning routine, making it easier to grab a cup and go.
Cleaning Products
Store cleaning products safely under the sink to keep countertops clutter-free. Minimalists should aim to keep as few items as possible on the counter, enhancing
the kitchen’s aesthetic and functionality.
Organizing Food and Spices
Arrange food items in categories to prevent overspending and ensure you always know what you have. Store frequently used spices, oils and vinegars in easy-to-reach places. Group similar items like rice, pasta and snacks to streamline meal prep and grocery shopping.
Seasonal Storage
Items used once a month should occupy secondary storage spaces, while those used only a few times a year can be stored on higher shelves or in less accessible areas.
By strategically organizing your kitchen, you can create a space that looks good and supports efficient and enjoyable cooking. Implementing these tips will help you make the most of your kitchen’s prime real estate, ensuring everything you need is always within reach.
As a seasoned professional organizer, Jenifer Shaw brings more than 30 years of experience decluttering and maximizing space to help individuals achieve organized living.
In North Carolina, bicyclists have the same rights as motor vehicle drivers. Bicyclists are allowed to take the full lane when it’s necessary for safety or to avoid hazards in the road. Bicyclists are allowed to use all roadways except fully-controlled access highways such as interstates.
WELLNESS
What
is the pelvic floor and when do I need to see a pelvic floor physical therapist?
AThe pelvic floor consists of muscles, nerves and connective tissues that line the pelvis and support your pelvic organs, control your bowel and bladder, support sexual function and enable vaginal childbirth. Pelvic floor physical therapists choose to specialize and get additional training to address issues affecting the pelvic region.
If you have the following symptoms, consider making an appointment with a pelvic floor physical therapist.
• Pelvic Pain: Persistent or recurring pain or pressure in the pelvic area, including discomfort during intercourse, bowel movements, or sitting.
• Incontinence: Leaking with coughing, sneezing, or exercising (stress incontinence), or a sudden urge to urinate (urge incontinence).
• Incomplete Emptying: Having the urge to urinate even after recently emptying your bladder, or feeling a strong urge to urinate but being unable to empty the bladder.
• Chronic Constipation: Difficulty with bowel movements can sometimes be related to pelvic floor muscle dysfunction.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) or difficulty achieving orgasm can sometimes be related to pelvic floor muscle tension or weakness.
• Postpartum Care: Women who have recently given birth may experience pelvic floor issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapses, or pain during intercourse. Childbirth is traumatic and every mom after every delivery should be evaluated by a pelvic floor physical therapist.
• Unresolved hip or back pain: When traditional treatment is unsuccessful, the missing link could stem from a pelvic floor issue.
Pelvic floor symptoms are VERY COMMON, but they are NOT NORMAL. Left untreated, the symptoms can worsen over time. Did you know the number one reason for nursing home admission is incontinence? Pelvic floor physical therapy is very effective and has a high success rate. A healthy pelvic floor will give you the freedom to stay active and do activities you love without worry.
Jennie Murray is a Doctor of Physical Therapy with 20 years of experience. She has a private practice in downtown Waxhaw specializing in orthopedics and pelvic health.
Visit www.Jenniemurraypt.com for more information about her practice.
Call 704-243-8488 or email Jenniemurraypt@gmail.com to schedule an appointment.
Free phone consultations available.
Stay and Play at Cane Creek Park
This family-friendly park is the perfect summer expedition for the family.
BY A. TARA BOTERO
Located eight miles south of downtown Waxhaw, Cane Creek Park is a family-oriented, water-based recreation space that spans 1,050 acres of pristine land surrounding a 350acre lake. The park offers a natural and scenic environment for outdoor activities and peaceful relaxation throughout the year.
Cane Creek Park is renowned for its excellent largemouth bass fishing, attracting anglers from across the state. The lake also teems with bluegill, crappie and catfish, making it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts. According
to Jim Chaffin, union county parks and recreation director, “The fishing here is some of the best in the state. We see families coming back year after year to enjoy the lake.”
Visitors can enjoy an array of yearround activities, such as fishing, boating and hiking. The park also features picnic areas, canoe, kayak and paddle boat rentals, ball fields, playgrounds, disc golf and multi-use mountain bike and horse trails. “One of our hidden gems is the disc golf course. It’s a fantastic way for families to spend an afternoon together,” shares Chaffin.
Opposite page: A walking trail along the shore of Cane Creek Lake. Left: A sign in the Cane Creek Campground leads the way. Top right: The Camp Store is located within the Cane Creek Campground. Bottom right: One of the many playgrounds at Cane Creek Park.
Camping at Cane Creek Park
Cane Creek Park offers various camping options to suit different preferences and group sizes:
- Family Camping Area: 108 six-person campsites with water and electricity, some with sewer hookups. Each site has a fireplace/grill combo and picnic table, with bathroom and shower facilities nearby.
- Wilderness Camping Area: Tent-only sites with no water or electricity. Campers park in a designated area and walk a short distance to their sites. These accommodate up to six people with two tents and are near a bathhouse.
- Group Camping Areas: Small group sites for up to 20 people and large group sites for up to 30 people, both without on-site water or electricity but close to a bathhouse and three water spigots.
- Rustic Cabins: Accommodate up to six people, equipped with electricity, a small refrigerator, heating/cooling unit and outdoor fire pit/grill. Bathhouse nearby. Guests must provide their own linens. No smoking, indoor cooking or pets allowed.
Top: The main sign at Cane Creek Park.
Bottom: The main office at the Camp Creek Park has information and accepts payments for various activities.
But wait, there’s more!
Cane Creek is also home to the endangered Schweinitz’s Sunflower, a rare species native to the Piedmont areas of North and South Carolina. This native wildflower was once found all over the roadsides of the Carolinas but is now one of the rarest species of sunflower. While not recommended for home landscapes, the wildflower has a viewing area within the park from August through October.
Cane Creek also offers various programs including introduction to kayaking, Archery 101 and stand-up paddle board classes in the summer. “Our summer programs are a great way to engage with the community and get people outdoors,” Chaffin says. “We encourage everyone to check out our calendar or sign up for our monthly newsletter, The Trailhead, for the latest updates.” New programs will be available in the fall, so don’t forget to check out the calendar. For larger events, the park offers a festival area with water and electricity, providing great views of the lake.
Currently, Cane Creek Park is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Starting October 7, the hours will shift to 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and from November, the park will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For the latest updates, visit the
Cane Creek Park Facebook page or the Union County website at unioncountync. gov/parks.
There is an entrance fee of $4 for single vehicles and $8 for trucks and trailers. Pedal boats and mini golf are available daily from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Union County residents aged 65 and older can obtain a Senior Permit for free lifetime access to Cane Creek Park. Non-residents can enjoy the same Senior Permit lifetime benefit for just $5. Currently, beaches remain closed due to a lack of available lifeguards, but all other activities are operating according to their normal hours.
Cane Creek Park is a treasure trove of recreational opportunities, offering something for everyone. Close to Waxhaw, the park offers a quick getaway with quite a bit of variety. As Jim Chaffin aptly puts it, “Cane Creek Park is where families can come together to enjoy nature and create unforgettable experiences.”
Top: Kayaks wait for rental on the shore while some kayakers enjoy the beautiful day on Cane Creek Lake.
Middle: A Selfie Station at Cane Creek Park has a dedicated shelf for your phone to make taking group selfies fun and easy! Bottom: Fishing is a popular activity at Cane Creek Park.
A Legacy of Real Estate Excellence
Farms & Estates Realty offers a personalized touch to real estate in Waxhaw. Take a look into what they do.
BY A. TARA BOTERO
BY
PHOTOS
A. TARA BOTERO
From left to right: Roy Sansbury, Rosa Sansbury, Heather Brown and Mike Brown are the core leadership team at Farms & Estates.
Farms & Estates Realty, LLC, located upstairs in the historic A.W. Heath building at 101 W South Main St., Waxhaw, NC, on the corner of South Main and Broome St., has been a cornerstone of the local real estate market since its founding in 2001. With a focus on family values and entrepreneurial spirit, the company has grown from a oneroom office to a multi-branch enterprise, serving Union, Lancaster, York, Cabarrus and Kershaw counties, as well as parts of Mecklenburg and southeastern South Carolina. Their motto, “Big enough to serve you, small enough to know you,” encapsulates their commitment to personalized client service.
Above: Roy Sansbury and Heather Brown discuss future plans for the properties of Farms & Estates. Below: The historic A.W. Heath building at 101 W South Main St.
READY TO GET STARTED?
Contact the team at Farms & Estates online at farmsandestates.com or by phone at (704) 843-1107.
A Rich History and Strong Leadership:
Roy Sansbury, founder of Farms & Estates Realty, reflects on the company’s journey: “We’ve been in business for 23 years, starting in a one-room, single office, with Rosa and me doing our own graphic design work, advertising copy, sign construction and installation. Our first listing appointment came on 9/11, which we ended up having to cancel for understandable reasons. Despite the challenges of the recession/depression, Covid, rising interest rates, we have grown steadily, expanding our reach and services.”
Roy and his wife Rosa recently sold controlling interest in the company to Heather and Mike Brown. Heather has been a key member of the firm since 2013, acting as sales manager for the previous five years and now as managing partner and broker-in-charge of the firm’s Camden branch. Her husband Mike, also a managing partner, plans to join the firm in 2025 as business manager, and together, they will further strengthen the Company’s leadership role in the
Carolinas by ensuring the company’s client-focused values and successful transactions goals continue to be upheld. Roy, also a managing partner, will remain involved for the next four years, at first as broker-incharge of the Waxhaw branch, then gradually reducing his hours to act in an advisory capacity. Rosa will continue her administrative tasks and assist with project design in the firm’s development arm.
Services and Specialties:
Farms & Estates Realty specializes in a diverse range of real estate services, including residential, light commercial and land sales. They also pride themselves on their expertise in land development, a niche not commonly found in typical brokerages. When asked how the firm covers such a wide expanse of the real estate market, Roy noted that his attitude in hiring new agents is to question and discover what they like to do, what gets them up in the morning and then assigns them that area in which to work. “We have a collection of entrepreneurs under the same roof, focusing on areas they are passionate about,” Roy says.
The firm’s services include subdividing large tracts of land into manageable estate-sized parcels, helping clients develop raw land and providing invaluable advice on land investments. They cater to clients seeking anything from small residential lots to expansive estates, ensuring each transaction is handled with care and expertise.
Reflecting on the importance of investing in land, Roy quotes a mission statement he designed for the firm in 2002: “Invest in land; not only with your money, but with your spirit as well. For then conservation will become a selfish motive, and selfish motives create legacies, and legacies are treasured by future generations. With this one decision you establish both an endowment, as well as a heritage.”
Top: The Farm & Estates team gathers in the conference room to discuss current and future properties.
Left: Heather Brown and Mike Brown will be working together on the future of Farms & Estates.
Community and Client Relationships:
Farms & Estates Realty fosters a familylike atmosphere among its 15 agents and four administrative staff. “We have a family-like relationship among our agents,” Heather Brown notes. “It’s intimate, and we continue to grow while maintaining the successful practices Roy established.” Heather and Roy both could not emphasize enough how important the Farms & Estates agents are to the success and growth of the firm. They both share the opinion that the firm has the best, most diligent and client-centric agents in the business.
The company also emphasizes faceto-face meetings in their well-equipped office, creating a professional and welcoming environment for clients. “We welcome clients to meet here in our office, it’s more professional and better equipped than meeting at a Starbucks, and furthermore, the view over historic downtown Waxhaw is fantastic!” says Roy.
Future Vision:
Farms & Estates Realty has recently expanded into Camden, SC with a new brick and mortar office and plans to expand further into South Carolina in the near future. They have already hired new agents to open the Chester market.
Despite the uncertainties in the real estate market, the team at Farms & Estates remain optimistic. Rosa shared, “With the steady influx of new residents into the Carolinas and sellers having become accustomed to the market’s elevated property values, it’s going to be difficult for prices to come down.” Roy finished: “Home prices will continue to appreciate, though probably not at the same rate as the last three years.”
Farms & Estates Realty, LLC stands out not only for its comprehensive real estate services but also for its deeprooted commitment to community, client relationships and legacy. As they continue to grow and adapt, their core values and dedication to excellence remain unwavering, ensuring they are a trusted name in the real estate industry for years to come
Top: An aerial view of a Farms & Estates property. Middle: The front drive of a Farms & Estates property. Bottom: A statue of a stag on a Farms & Estates property.
Nature of the Carolinas
Wandering through our state’s endless beauty
BY RORY HICKEY
Overlook | Bryson City, NC (Great Smokey Mountains)
When I was 9 years old, my family decided to make the move from Long Island, New York to Waxhaw, North Carolina. While apprehensive to be in an entirely new place, I recall being in awe of our new home immediately. I had never laid eyes on such lush greenery or colorful sunsets. Nor had I ever experienced such friendly, welcoming people (it’s true what they say about southern hospitality after all!) As I grew up, I found a passion in photography and capturing the beauty in mundane places. I’d like to think that Waxhaw was my first muse. From running around sunflower fields with friends, to driving on gravel roads and admiring the picturesque skies, I always brought my camera along for the adventure.
Chilly | Waxhaw, NC
Sun bath | Waxhaw, NC
Sunflower | Waxhaw, NC
The coop | Waxhaw, NC
Breeze | Waxhaw, NC
Home | Waxhaw, NC
Living in Waxhaw gave me the opportunity to explore other nearby cities that were so drastically different from one another — and of course, I took advantage of that. I attended college at The University of North Carolina at Wilmington, where I delved deeper into my photography and artistry overall. The captivating beaches and ethereal plant life brought such a sense of serenity to my everyday life. Capturing the beauty of the coast was just too easy. If my friends and I were looking for a change of scenery for the weekend, we could road trip to the mountains for equally astonishing views. From Waxhaw, to Wrightsville Beach to the Great Smokey Mountains, anyone can experience a broad range of beautiful environments all within one state. The exploration of North Carolina was, and continues to be, endlessly exciting.
Rory Hickey grew up on Long Island, New York and currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina. She enjoys all creative endeavors with a primary focus on painting, drawing, photography and videography. She runs an online art shop “RORYHICKEY” on Etsy and can be contacted on social media for custom paintings (@roryhickeyart on Instagram).
Wrightsville Beach, NC
The girls | Waxhaw, NC
The scenic route | Waxhaw, NC
Celebrate the Library with this great read
Get ready for Library Card Sign-Up Month by reading a book chronicling the history of libraries!
BY AMEE ODOM, MLIS, MA, SENIOR LIBRARIAN FOR REFERENCE AND INFORMATION SERVICES AT UNION COUNTY LIBRARY
September is Library Card Sign-Up Month. Are you interested in learning more about libraries and how they can open up another world? This month’s Book Nook highlights The Library: A Fragile History (2021) by Andrew Pettegree and Arthur der Weduwen.
The Library: A Fragile History, by Andrew Pettegree and Arthur der Weduwen, is an exceptional exploration of the library’s journey through time. This well-researched and beautifully written work takes readers on a captivating voyage from the legendary collections of antiquity to today’s vulnerable public libraries.
The book delves into the intriguing stories behind the world’s greatest libraries, revealing the passionate antiquarians and generous philanthropists who amassed these incredible collections. Pettegree and der Weduwen also highlight the various challenges libraries have faced, including the destruction of valuable manuscripts, the evolution of technology and changing societal tastes and ideologies.
One of the central themes of the book is the lifecycle of libraries. Many flourished under their original owners, only to decline as subsequent generations lost interest. Despite this and the physical decay caused by factors like mold and pests, the concept of the
library endures, continually being reinvented by each new generation.
The Library: A Fragile History is not just a historical account, it is a testament to the enduring power of knowledge and the human desire to preserve it. This book is a must-read for bibliophiles, collectors and anyone who has ever felt the joy of getting lost among the shelves of a library.
Don’t have a library card? Start the card process at uclnc. org or visit your closest library location for assistance. For a free Union County Library card, one must live, work or study in the County. If you don’t fit that criteria, there are paid library card options.
Be sure to check out the library’s website for more information about September programs and Library Card Sign-Up Month! Additionally, don’t forget to pick up a copy of Beyond the Cover: Exploring Books, Events, and More, a quarterly publication available at any library location.
We can’t wait to see you at the library!
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REAL ESTATE
Should I Buy, Build or Renovate? What are the pros and cons of each?
AI’m often asked this question, and the answer is up to the individual or family as to which is best! Here’s a few things to consider when deciding.
In today’s market, with low inventory and interest rates holding, many buyers feel “stuck” in their current homes, especially if they have a low interest rate. Is it wrong to renovate and hold off purchasing for a while? In most cases, it’s a great investment to update or renovate your existing home. This will increase the value of your home, and when you’re ready to sell, it will be worth more.... and why not enjoy the updates before you move? Just remember, it’s best to consult a professional to ensure you don’t over-improve for your neighborhood or community. Buying existing is an excellent option for families transferring or moving to a new area. Sometimes rentals are scarce. It’s possible to find an existing dream home, and if it’s not perfect, there’s always the opportunity to update after moving in.
Building a new home is exciting and rewarding, but it can be a stressful process no matter how prepared you are. Envisioning your dream home and choosing every detail to truly make it your own is fun. My advice to clients is try not to plan a new build when other major family changes or transitions are occurring. You should enjoy the process and make memories along the way. Taking on too much at one time can be overwhelming. Planning and having an experienced team to help you makes all the difference!
If you have more questions about buying existing homes, building or renovating, please reach out!
As a seasoned Realtor and interior designer specializing in creating dream homes, I bring a unique blend of expertise to clients.
Striving to transform your vision into reality, my approach goes beyond mere property transactions; I curate spaces that resonate with your lifestyle. Let’s embark on your HOME journey together!
For more real estate and interior design tips, follow me on Instagram @leslieannehome.
In the charming community of Waxhaw, cyclists and motorists share the road daily. It’s essential for everyone to understand the rules and show mutual respect to ensure safety for all.
Bicyclists’ Rights and Responsibilities
Did you know that in North Carolina, bicyclists have the same rights as motor vehicle drivers? Cyclists can take the full lane when necessary for safety or to avoid
road hazards. They are permitted on all roadways, except for fully-controlled access highways like interstates. So, when you see a cyclist on Waxhaw’s scenic roads, remember they have the right to be there.
Passing Safely
Passing cyclists safely is key to sharing the road. In North Carolina, it’s perfectly legal to cross the double yellow line to pass a cyclist, provided there is enough sight
distance to do so safely. Make sure to give at least four feet of clearance when passing or fully enter the opposite lane. This space allows cyclists to maneuver safely and comfortably.
Understanding Cyclists’ Speed and Equipment
Cyclists in Waxhaw often travel between 20 and 28 mph on bicycles that can cost up to $12,000. These high-performance bikes are designed for speed and efficiency. Asking cyclists to ride on sidewalks is like asking a Formula 1 driver to navigate dirt roads; it’s just not practical or safe.
Patience and Courtesy
A little patience goes a long way. When you encounter cyclists, slow down and be courteous. You’ll likely be behind them for just a short period, often less than a minute. Avoid honking your horn excessively or driving too close to intimidate them. Such actions don’t make a point and can be dangerous. Let’s all aim to be considerate road users.
Know the Law
If you’re unsure about the laws regarding sharing the road with cyclists, visit the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) website at NCDOT.gov. Being informed helps prevent accidents and fosters a safer road environment for everyone. By following these friendly guidelines and showing respect for all road users, we can make Waxhaw a safer and more pleasant place to live and travel. Happy motoring and cycling!
Cyclists take in the charm of Waxhaw’s scenic roads. Let’s all share the journey and make our streets safer for everyone.
David A. Johnson is an avid cyclist and publisher of Waxhaw Magazine.
PREPARING FOR BACK TO SCHOOL: Training and Behavior Tips for Your Fur Babies ADOPTABLE PET
As summer days wane and back-toschool season approaches, families may themselves in a whirlwind of school supplies, new routines and last-minute preparations. Amidst this busy period, it’s essential not to overlook the impact this change can have on your furry family members. Pets are creatures of habit and can become stressed when their environment and routine change abruptly. Here are some tips to help your fur baby adjust to this new season.
Establish a Routine Early. To ease your companion into the new backto-school routine, start adjusting their schedule a few weeks before the school year begins. Gradually alter feeding times, walk schedules and playtimes to align with the upcoming school day routine. This gradual shift helps them acclimate slowly to change.
Practice Separation. As school starts, pets may face extended periods alone, leading to anxiety or destructive behavior. Begin practicing short separations while you’re still at home. Leave your fur baby in a safe, comfortable space with toys and treats for brief intervals, gradually increasing the duration. This helps them learn that being alone is temporary.
Create a Safe Space. Designate a quiet, comfortable area where your fur baby can retreat when the household gets busy. This space should include their
BY DR. SUSAN BONILLA
bed, favorite toys and water. Having a safe space helps reduce stress and gives your companion a place to relax and feel secure.
Mental Stimulation and Exercise. Ensure your fur baby receives adequate mental and physical stimulation. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders and regular exercise can prevent boredom and reduce anxiety. A tired pet is a happy pet and is less likely to engage in undesirable behaviors.
Positive Reinforcement. Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage good behavior. Reward your pet with treats, praise or playtime when they exhibit calm and appropriate behavior, especially during hectic moments like morning departures. This reinforces understanding of acceptable conduct.
Consult a Professional. If your companion shows signs of severe anxiety or behavioral issues, consult with a veterinarian or a professional animal behaviorist. They can provide personalized strategies and, if necessary, recommend treatments to help your fur baby cope.
By preparing early and implementing these tips, you can ensure a smooth transition for both your family and your beloved pets. A little preparation goes a long way in maintaining harmony and happiness in your home during the back-to-school season.
Dr. Susan Bonilla, MS, CVA, CCRP, CACP, owns Passionate Paws Animal Hospital in Waxhaw and Weddington/Matthews. She and her team have been providing fear-free medical care and grooming since 2016. Visit www. PassionatePawsAnimalHospital.com to learn more.
Playful Paris Meet
Paris, a charming 2.5-year-old hound mix weighing around 40 pounds, available for adoption through the South Charlotte Dog Rescue. Paris is not just an incredible and loving family dog, she’s also professionally trained!
Paris thrives in a household where she is the only dog, having made remarkable progress in her training, especially on a leash and with recall. She adores kids and people, her affectionate nature shining through in every interaction.
Her playful and loving demeanor promises to bring joy and laughter to your everyday life. Paris is ready to be your loyal companion, offering warm cuddles and adorable antics that will make her an inseparable part of your family. Ready to welcome Paris into your home?
Submit your application today at www. southcharlottedogrescue.com and experience the endless love and devotion this sweet girl has to offer. Don’t miss out on the chance to make Paris a part of your family!
Loyal Loki Meet
Loki! This adorable kitten was found by a kind-hearted Samaritan and is now safe with Animals First Rescue of the Carolinas. At about eight weeks old, Loki is irresistibly cuddly, sure to win your heart instantly.
Loki’s adoption donation covers his neuter, rabies shot and an additional kitten vaccine. He has been combo tested (with negative results) and dewormed, ensuring he’s healthy and ready for his forever home. Plus, Loki uses the litter box perfectly!
If you’re interested in meeting Loki, please call 704-256-0014 for more information and to apply. Animals First Rescue of the Carolinas can’t wait to help Loki find his loving new family!
Lisa Brady, Waxhaw resident, took this photo at the 2024 Independence Day Parade in downtown Waxhaw on July 4, 2024.
When you hear “cancer,” everything changes. I’m normally a very happy person, but being diagnosed with late-stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma was truly frightening. I knew to live, I had to fight. The oncology team at Novant Health developed an innovative chemo-immunotherapy and their compassionate care helped me get through it. Now I’m cancer-free and singing with my choir again.
Thank you, Novant Health, for truly lifesaving care.
