Lake Norman Woman Magazine July 2026

pg 50 happy birthday, AMERICA cultivate

featuring: DR. CORAL KIRSCHER, DNP, FNP-C, & DR. MICAH KIRSCHER, DNP, FNP-C, OF RENEW SPECIALTY GROUP

WHITE, YOU RED,

editor

IN-CHIEF

EVERY SUMMER, all 19 of us piled into one giant family vacation somewhere in North Carolina. One year at Ocean Isle Beach, I found a coupon for a dolphin cruise in one of those free tourist magazines filled with seafood buffets and questionable airbrush t-shirt shops.

The ad promised a premium boat, breathtaking views, exotic birds, and dolphins leaping through the Atlantic. When I called to book, the woman excitedly told me it would be Captain Jack's final tour before retiring and selling the boat the next day. In hindsight, that should've been our first warning.

selling Gatorades and Oatmeal Cream Pies.

My sister Tara yelled, "WHO IS DRIVING THE BOAT?!"

Without missing a beat, Captain Jack pointed and said, "My 13-year-old nephew."

That did not calm anyone down. And the dolphins? Not a single one. Honestly, they were smarter than we were. Somewhere underwater they were probably saying, "Absolutely not, Gerald. We're not going near those people."

LKNw TEAM

We arrived expecting a yacht experience and instead boarded what looked like a floating cigarette stain with railings. The boat appeared to have survived multiple hurricanes and possibly a pirate attack, but the cousins were thrilled.

At first, everything was perfect—calm water, happy kids, sea breeze. We waved confidently to people on shore like we were starring in Keeping Up with the Neelys: Maritime Edition.

Then we hit the Atlantic.

The boat started rocking like a washing machine full of bricks. Kids slid across benches. Hair whipped around like a Bon Jovi music video. Captain Jack assured us everything was under control—which would've been more comforting if we hadn't spotted him behind the snack counter

At one point, sweet little Zac, who was only three, rolled from one side of the deck to the other like a human tumbleweed.

"WE HAVE TO HELP ZAC!" my sister Annah screamed.

Mama, gripping the railing for dear life, yelled back, "I CAN'T EVEN HELP MYSELF!"

By the time we crawled back to shore, green-faced and emotionally changed forever, Captain Jack waved proudly from the dock like he'd just completed a luxury excursion.

And honestly? It became one of our favorite family memories. Because the best summer stories usually start with a terrible idea, questionable decisions, and at least one child rolling across a boat deck. w

Box 1000, Cornelius, NC 28031

CONTRIBUTORS

PATTI ALVAREZ; SHANNON BALL; JESSICA BENTLEY; MEG D. GOLDSTEIN; HORNE HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING; DAVE JONES; THERESA E. VIERA

SUCCESS

America! happy birthday,

As America marks its 250th birthday, the celebration is a reminder that our nation’s story is multi-layered and far more than just fireworks and parades. It’s rooted in generations of people, places, and shared ideals. While Lake Norman is a more recent landmark, the communities that surround it trace their beginnings back to the late 1700s and early 1800s, when early settlers, farmers, and patriots helped shape a young America still defining its identity. As part of the nationwide America 250 observance, July becomes a meaningful moment to reflect on that legacy and explore local history.

LOCAL

events

Gathering of Voices

Through September 3 at the Iredell County Public Library, this event invites visitors to discover the stories, perspectives, and experiences that helped shape both Iredell County and America. This free exhibit explores the many voices that have contributed to our shared history and is open during regular library hours.

Mooresville Museum Community Cookout

Head to Center Avenue in Downtown Mooresville on July 18, 4-7 p.m., for a classic summer cookout hosted by the Mooresville Museum. Enjoy great food, connect with neighbors, and celebrate Mooresville’s rich history during this fun family-friendly gathering.

America250

Summer Splash

Join the fun on July 10 from 5-8 p.m. at the Iredell County Recreation Center. This family-friendly event will feature music, water bouncers, swimming, a food truck, and plenty of patriotic fun for all ages. Admission to the Recreation Center pool is $3 per person, and pre-registration is required for pool access. Patriotic attire is strongly encouraged, and food will be available for purchase.

LAKE NORMAN FUN facts

History Lies Beneath the Water

Before the lake was formed, entire communities, farms, roads, churches, and bridges occupied the land now covered by water. In a way, Lake Norman serves as a time capsule, preserving pieces of North Carolina history beneath its surface.

RevolutionaryEra Families Settled the Area

Many of the families who settled Iredell, Mecklenburg, Lincoln, and Catawba counties arrived in the late 1700s, around the same time America was establishing itself as a new nation. Some family names found in local records from that era still appear throughout the Lake Norman region today.

President George Washington Traveled Nearby

President George Washington made a welldocumented Southern Tour in 1791, traveling through North Carolina along early colonial routes that connected the young nation. While he did not travel directly through what is now Lake Norman, the region lies within the historic network of roads and trading paths that shaped movement, commerce, and communication in the early United States. w

Independence Day Twist

1 independence MOON TO THE from 8 JULY FACTS

Although we celebrate on July 4, the vote for American independence actually took place on July 2, 1776. 3

2

6 John Adams Called It

Let It Ring

The Liberty Bell hasn’t rung since 1846, but every July 4 it is symbolically tapped 13 times in honor of the original colonies.

4

Founding Father John Adams predicted Americans would celebrate independence with parades, games, bells, bonfires, and fireworks for generations to come.

A Remarkable Coincidence

Presidents Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and James Monroe all died on July 4, with Jefferson and Adams passing just hours apart in 1826.

5

Moonwalk Anniversary

Just four days after launch on July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong became the first person to walk on the moon.

7

Picnic Peak

July is National Picnic Month, making it the perfect time to enjoy summer favorites outdoors.

One Giant Leap

Apollo 11 launched on July 16, 1969, carrying Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins toward the first moon landing.

8

Hot Diggity Dog

July is also National Ice Cream Month and National Hot Dog Month. Americans consume an estimated 150 million hot dogs on the Fourth of July alone! w

BEAUTY a lasting

DEEPER THAN SKIN DEEP

THERE’S A CERTAIN ENERGY THAT COMES FROM sitting across from someone who genuinely loves what they do. Spend just a few minutes with Dr. Elizabeth Rostan, founder and owner of Charlotte Skin & Laser, and it becomes immediately clear that her passion extends far beyond cosmetic dermatology. For her, it has always been about helping people feel like the best version of themselves, inside and out.

Originally from Clemmons, North Carolina, Dr. Rostan’s roots run deep in the Tar Heel State. She attended University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for both undergraduate studies and medical school before completing dermatology residency training at Duke University. Though she trained with some of the brightest minds in medicine, she jokes that she remains “Carolina Blue through and through.” Her husband Robert, a Davidson College graduate, also shares a medical connection as his father was a dermatologist as well.

Dr. Rostan’s fascination with cosmetic dermatology began during residency while working alongside renowned dermatologist Dr. Sheldon Pinnell, founder of SkinCeuticals and a pioneer in topical Vitamin C research. She later trained under laser innovator Dr. Richard Fitzpatrick, widely known for advancing

laser skin resurfacing and modern cosmetic procedures.

“These were the very early days,” she recalls. “We were bringing fillers in from Europe and studying brand-new laser technologies for skin rejuvenation.” That early exposure to innovation shaped not only her career, but the philosophy she carries into her practice today. With a focus on continuous learning, mentorship, and customized patient care, Dr. Rostan lectures professionally while leading a team of physician assistants, nurses, estheticians, and laser specialists she has personally trained and mentored.

“What’s so rewarding now is that the people I’ve mentored also teach me,” she smiles. “We work collaboratively to create individualized treatment plans that truly serve each patient. Today’s treatments are regenerative. We’re not just improving appearance; we’re improving the health and function of the skin itself.”

Outside the office, Dr. Rostan embraces life with humor and optimism. She adores her four dogs, enjoys horseback riding, and continues chasing improvement on the golf course despite what she laughingly calls her “delusional optimism” about the next round. She and her husband also treasure time spent at their home on Lake James, where she proudly still slalom skis each year.

Although her demanding schedule has limited travel over the years, she’s begun carving out more adventures, including trips to Italy, Canada’s Lake Louise, and the United Kingdom. Africa remains high on her bucket list.

Still, when asked what makes her proudest, her answer comes back not to awards or accomplishments, but to people: “The greatest honor and reward has been the trust of my patients,” she gratefully acknowledges. “Being allowed into their lives and helping them through the years is something I will never take for granted.” w

Hello Summer!

A FAMILY AFFAIR

MEG D. GOLDSTEIN, ATTORNEY-AT-LAW

Estate planning is not simply about taxes. Rather, estate planning is a family affair. A well-drafted estate plan tailored to your personal needs and desires will promote family harmony. A nonexistent or ill-conceived plan, on the other hand, will leave your family more vulnerable when it confronts the emotional trauma of your loss.

A comprehensive estate plan includes, but is not limited to, the following documents and benefits:

FINANCIAL AND HEALTH CARE POWER OF ATTORNEY.

If you or a parent becomes disabled or develops Alzheimer’s, the ability to make important financial and medical decisions may be lost. That is why it is important to appoint both a financial agent and a healthcare agent and to sign those documents while you or your parent is still able to do so.

ADVANCE DIRECTIVE OF A DESIRE FOR A NATURAL DEATH.

You should not impose on your family members the burden of making your end-of-life decisions without providing directions or guidance of your own desires. An Advance Directive will alleviate this burden.

INTESTATE LAWS.

If you do not have a Will, North Carolina law directs how your assets will be distributed. Most people are surprised by how their assets will be distributed if they die without a Will. *NOTE: There is no common law marriage in North Carolina. If you die survived by your domestic partner, she/ he is not entitled to any of your property.

THE WILL.

Most of my clients combine their Will with a Trust Agreement. The Will is simple and designates an executor to manage the administration of your estate and pay your debts and expenses. Assets are then transferred to the Trustee under the Trust Agreement, which contains the dispositive provisions of your exact plan.

TRUSTS. A major benefit of proper estate planning is the ability to establish trusts to protect a beneficiary’s inheritance from creditors, in-laws, and third parties, and even from the beneficiary’s complacency. Trusts also ensure that inheritances pass down lineal lines rather than outside the family.

BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONS.

Beneficiary Designations for your life insurance, IRAs, 401k plans, annuities, and other contractual death benefits are as important as Financial and Health Care Powers of Attorney. Because the combined value of these benefits may comprise a significant portion of your estate, beneficiary designations need to be reviewed and updated during the estate plan process.

MEMORANDUM FOR TANGIBLE PERSONAL PROPERTY.

Clients, particularly women, often want to designate certain items of jewelry, antiques, and household furnishings to specific individuals. The memorandum needs to be written in your own handwriting, dated and signed, and placed with your other original documents. You can revise the memorandum whenever you choose. Your attorney does not need to prepare an amendment for this purpose.

GUARDIANSHIP OF MINOR CHILDREN.

The appointment of a minor child’s guardian may prove to be the hardest decision you will ever make. Who will nurture your child to majority?

Meg D. Goldstein, Attorney-at-Law, has 45 years of extensive legal experience and is well-versed in estate planning, trust and estate administration, fiduciary relationships, charitable giving, and the formation and continuation of business and charitable entities. Her priority and passion are to ensure that each client's specific needs and desires are addressed in a well-presented plan to limit future controversies between family members and business associates.

CHILD CUSTODY DEBUNKED

We have all heard the horror stories about custody battles. While some are true, many are clouded by common myths that add unnecessary confusion and stress to an already emotional process. Let’s clear the air on a few of the most common custody misconceptions:

50/50 Child Custody Is Guaranteed

REALITY: Every state takes a different approach. The guiding presumption is “best interest of the child.” Although many judges may start from a position that equal time is best, the evidence presented in a child custody matter may prove otherwise. Bottom line: child custody outcomes depend on facts, not formulas.

MYTH No Visitation Means No Child Support

REALITY: Child support and visitation are two separate legal issues. If you have a court-ordered child support obligation, it remains in effect and is a legal requirement, even if you are not currently seeing your child. You may have legal remedies for missed parenting time, but skipping child support payments is not one of them.

Courts Always Favor Mothers

REALITY: Gender does not determine custody. Prior to 1977, there was a presumption that mothers were more suitable in caring for young children in what was known as the “tender years doctrine.” Since this was abolished in 1977, Judges are required to evaluate several factors to decide what arrangement serves the best interest of the child without favoring either parent due to gender alone.

An Abusive Partner Cannot Get Visitation With a Child

REALITY: While courts take abuse seriously, domestic violence or abuse by one parent does not automatically bar said parent from seeing their child, especially if the child was not present or otherwise a victim to said abuse. Judges may impose safety measures, such as supervised visitation, to balance safety with the parent’s constitutional right to maintain a relationship with the child.

MYTH

My Case Will Be Just Like My Friend’s Case or Family Member’s Case

REALITY: No two child custody cases are the same. Even small differences in facts (like parenting schedules, job schedules, or child needs) can dramatically affect the outcome. Avoid assumptions and get tailored legal advice fitting to your family’s situation. Child custody matters are complex and highly personal. w

THERESA E. VIERA | MODERN LEGAL

Modern Legal founder Theresa E. Viera is an attorney and UNC School of Law graduate dedicated to helping families navigate legal matters with clarity and compassion. She is a NC DRC Certified Family Financial and Superior Court Mediator. Contact Theresa at theresa@modernlegalnc.com, 704.286.6302, or visit www.modernlegalnc.com.

WOMAN to

WATCH

LKNw RECOGNIZES A WOMAN DOING EXCEPTIONAL WORK IN THE LAKE NORMAN COMMUNITY, A LEADER WHO IS PAVING THE WAY TO CHANGING OUR ATTITUDES AND INSPIRING CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE.

kathleen RUSSO DR.

curiosity AS MY COMPASS

I grew up with a strong sense of curiosity about how the body works and what it really means to thrive. Even early on I wanted to understand not just how to help heal, but how to help people live longer, better, and healthier lives. That perspective shaped my path into medicine and continues to guide me today. I’ve always believed the body is capable of far more than we often give it credit for. When you start asking the right questions and looking deeper, you realize that better health isn’t just possible, it’s something we can actively create with intention.

A SHIFT IN awareness

I began my career in traditional medicine, but over time I realized something was missing. We were often treating symptoms instead of truly optimizing health. That shift in awareness changed everything for me. I pursued advanced training in integrative medicine through Dr. Andrew Weil’s program at the University of Arizona, which expanded how I think about the body as a connected whole. Today, my focus is on longevity, hormone optimization, and performancebased health ... helping people feel strong, energized, and fully engaged in their lives, not just managing conditions as they arise.

LAKE NORMAN magic

Lake Norman offers the perfect balance for me. It’s an active, health-conscious community with a real sense of connection, which aligns with both my personal lifestyle and the care we provide at Carolina Healthspan. Outside of work, running is a big part of my life. I’ve run the Boston Marathon multiple times and enjoy mountain trail races throughout the year. Movement helps me reset and recharge. I also value time with family and travel, especially when it allows me to slow down and reflect. That balance is essential to how I live and how I practice.

MEASURE, optimize, PERFORM

Dr. Kathleen Russo is Carolina HealthSpan’s Chief Medical Officer, Owner, as well as a Board-Certified Physician. With over 20 years of healthcare experience, Dr. Russo prides herself on spending extensive one-on-one time with each individual which allows her to build an optimization program focused on each patient’s root causes, needs, and goals rather than a cookiecutter treatment plan. You can reach Dr. Russo and her entire team at 704.333.4817 or visit www.carolinahealthspan.com.

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is staying aligned with a long-term vision in a fast-changing, trend-driven healthcare environment. There’s always pressure to chase what’s new, but I’ve learned that clarity, consistency, and staying grounded in your values matter most. What keeps me going is purpose, knowing the work we do genuinely changes how people feel and experience their lives. I come back to a simple philosophy: measure, optimize, perform. w

Are you struggling to lose weight or control your blood sugar?

We can help! Sign up for one of the following to improve your lifestyle, medications and overall health!

INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE AT MULTIPLE LOCATIONS TO DISCUSS LIFESTYLE, MEDICATIONS & MORE

EDUCATION ON LIFESTYLE MEDICINE INCLUDES

• Healthy eating habits

• Movement and exercise

• Managing stress

• Improving sleep

• Avoiding risky substances

• Making meaningful social connections

Shared Medical Appointments

Join a group of peers for an intensive 12-week weight loss journey. Meetings occur every 2 weeks and include lifestyle education, goal setting, and medication management.

2026 AVAILABLE LOCATIONS & DATES

One Health OB/Gyn Reese:

Diabetes Bootcamp

Join this 3-hour course on diabetes including lifestyle education, blood sugar monitoring and medications.

2026 AVAILABLE LOCATIONS & DATES

One Health OB/Gyn Reese:

AUGUST 12 NOVEMBER 4 session

One Health Family Medicine Rea Village:

JULY 16 OCTOBER 15

One

SEPTEMBER 11 JULY 12

DECEMBER 11

Creating The Healthcare We ALL Deserve

LAKE NORMAN FAMILY MEDICINE & URGENT CARE LOCATIONS:

One Health Family Medicine Lake Norman 9611 Sherrill Estates Rd. Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 801-1150

One Health Family Medicine

Reese 13620 Reese Blvd. E Suite 125 Huntersville, NC 28078 (704) 801-7340

One Health Family Medicine Antiquity 20036 Zion Ave. Suite 100 Cornelius, NC 28031 (704) 801-7400

One Health Family Medicine & Urgent Care Mooresville Center Square 138 Center Square Drive Mooresville, NC 28117 (704) 801-6100

One Health Family Medicine Mooresville 150 Professional Drive Suite 400 Mooresville, NC 28117 (704) 801-7350

One Health Family Medicine & Urgent Care Link Landing 409 Olin Way Suite 1200 Denver, NC 28037 (704) 801-7320

Health Family Medicine Waterside 7482 Waterside Crossing Blvd. Suite 202 Denver, NC 28037 (704) 801-1360

Health Family Medicine Mt. Island 10226 Couloak Dr. Suite 100 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 801-7380

Health Family Medicine Prosperity 4815 Johnston Oehler Rd. Suite 100 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 801-7310

white Renew red, &

For generations, healthcare has largely focused on treating illness after it appears.

What if healthcare wasn’t just about adding years to your life, but helping you feel stronger, healthier, more energetic, and more vibrant throughout those years?

At Renew Specialty Group, that’s exactly the philosophy driving everything we do.

Why More People Are Taking a Proactive Approach to Aging

This July, as we celebrate independence, we’re embracing a different kind of freedom: the freedom that comes from taking control of your health before problems arise. Through advanced therapies, hormone optimization, weight management, regenerative medicine, and personalized wellness programs, we’re helping patients move beyond simply surviving to thriving.

The conversation around healthcare is changing. More people are asking not just, “How do I avoid disease?” but, “How do I optimize my health?” They’re looking for ways to improve energy, recovery, performance, cognitive function, and quality of life long before symptoms appear. That’s where the emerging fields of longevity medicine and biohacking are reshaping what’s possible.

THE ULTIMATE BIOHACK:

EBO2 Therapy

If there is one treatment that embodies everything we believe about proactive health, longevity, and wellness, it’s EBO2.

Often described as the next evolution of EBOO therapy, EBO2 is one of the most advanced therapies available today for supporting whole body wellness at the cellular level. For many patients, it has become the foundation of their proactive health strategy and one of the most impactful investments they can make in their long term health.

Think of it as the ultimate internal reset.

During treatment, blood is gently circulated through an advanced filtration system while being exposed to medical grade ozone and six wavelengths of photobiomodulation light therapy before being returned to the body. This process is designed to support circulation, oxygen utilization, detoxification pathways, immune function, mitochondrial performance, recovery, and overall cellular health.

Unlike traditional EBOO systems that typically process smaller volumes of blood, EBO2 technology allows for significantly greater blood filtration while simultaneously incorporating multispectrum light therapy. The result is a more comprehensive treatment designed to help the body function at its highest potential.

EBO2 appeals to a wide range of patients, from those focused on longevity and peak performance to those looking for additional support for recovery, immune health, detoxification, and overall wellness. Patients frequently report increased energy, improved mental clarity, enhanced recovery, better exercise performance, improved resilience, and an overall sense of wellness that can be difficult to put into words until they experience it themselves.

In a world filled with supplements, cleanses, and quick fixes, EBO2 takes a more direct approach by supporting the foundational processes that influence nearly every aspect of health.

Whether your goal is longevity, athletic performance, recovery, immune support, detoxification, or simply feeling your absolute best, EBO2 has quickly become one of the most sought after therapies we offer and the treatment our team is most excited about. EBO2 represents what modern, proactive healthcare can look like.

Peptide Therapy: SUPPORTING YOUR BODY’S NATURAL INTELLIGENCE

If you’ve heard the term “peptides” lately, you’re not alone.

Peptides are naturally occurring chains of amino acids that act as messengers throughout the body. As we age, some of these signaling pathways become less efficient. Peptide therapy helps support and optimize those pathways.

Depending on individual goals, peptide therapies may be used to support recovery, healthy aging, sleep quality, metabolism, body composition, cognitive performance, skin health, and overall wellness.

Rather than forcing the body to function differently, peptides work by encouraging natural processes to operate more efficiently, making them one of the most exciting areas of modern longevity medicine. Many peptide protocols are also paired with regenerative therapies such as PRP and exosomes to support recovery, performance, aesthetics, and healthy aging.

Hormones Matter

MORE THAN MOST PEOPLE REALIZE

Fatigue. Brain fog. Low motivation. Weight gain. Poor sleep. Reduced muscle mass. Decreased libido.

Many people assume these symptoms are simply part of getting older.

Often, they’re not.

Hormones influence nearly every aspect of health, including energy, mood, metabolism, cognitive function, muscle maintenance, and sexual wellness.

At Renew Specialty Group, comprehensive hormone optimization programs are designed for both men and women. Through advanced testing and personalized treatment plans, we help patients identify imbalances and restore optimal function.

This includes testosterone replacement therapy, women’s hormone optimization, thyroid management, sexual wellness therapies, and regenerative treatments designed to support confidence, vitality, and performance.

The goal isn’t simply achieving “normal” lab values. It’s helping patients feel like themselves again.

Weight Loss IS ABOUT MORE THAN WEIGHT

For many people, weight loss has become synonymous with a number on a scale.

But true metabolic health runs much deeper.

Successful weight management involves far more than calories. Hormones, muscle preservation, sleep, stress, inflammation, and lifestyle habits all play a role.

Meet the Team BEHIND THE RENEW DIFFERENCE

There is no one size fits all solution to wellness.

Every patient arrives with unique goals, challenges, genetics, lifestyles, and health histories. That’s why the future of healthcare isn’t reactive. It’s personalized.

At Renew Specialty Group, we believe healthcare should never feel rushed or transactional. For most services, we offer complimentary consultations so patients can explore their options, ask questions, and build a plan tailored to their specific goals. Whether someone is interested in EBO2, weight management, hormone optimization, peptide therapy, regenerative medicine, or simply improving overall wellness, we take the time to understand the whole person, not just the symptoms.

Today’s medical weight loss options, including GLP 1 medications and personalized wellness protocols, have transformed what’s possible for patients struggling with weight and metabolic dysfunction.

At Renew Specialty Group, we focus on sustainable results, not quick fixes. Our goal is to help patients improve body composition, reduce health risks, increase energy, and build habits that support long term success.

Because healthy weight is really about creating a healthier life.

What truly sets Renew apart is our team.

Dr. Micah Kirscher, DNP, FNP-C, leads our Men’s Health program, helping men optimize hormones, sexual wellness, performance, vitality, and confidence through personalized treatment plans. Dr. Coral Kirscher, DNP, FNP-C, leads our Women’s Health program and brings extensive expertise in hormone optimization through every stage of life. Her integrative approach helps women navigate everything from fatigue and weight changes to perimenopause, menopause, and overall wellness with a focus on helping them feel their best from the inside out. Nacole Wood, MSN, FNP-C, is our EBO2 specialist and has become a trusted resource for patients seeking advanced therapies focused on detoxification, cellular health, recovery, and longevity.

Our concierge style approach gives patients direct access to providers who listen, educate, and partner with them throughout their health journey. No cookie cutter protocols. Just individualized, evidence based care designed around helping each patient feel and function at their best.

At the end of the day, our mission is simple: help people take control of their health, feel better, perform better, age better, and live life to the fullest. Because longevity isn’t just about adding years to your life. It’s about adding life to your years. w

(and at!)

LIFE LAUGHING andthrough at!

The project was born out of the kind of everyday exchanges that happen in texts, voice notes, and late-night spirals between friends. The duo took those familiar “should I text him back?” debates, pop culture hot takes, relationship questions, and life dilemmas and built them into something bigger: a shared experience where audiences can laugh, relate, and feel less alone in their own group chats.

At its core, Group Chat Girlies lives at the intersection of stand-up comedy and interactive storytelling. Each live show invites the audience into the conversation with anonymous questions and real-time reactions. No topic is off limits—dating, friendship drama, wellness trends, or the chaos of being a woman trying to make sense of it all in 2026.

“WOMEN ARE THE LARGEST UNTAPPED RESERVOIR OF TALENT IN THE WORLD.”

Jane Fonda’s words echo through generations, capturing the power and potential of women who lift one another with heart, humor, and healing words. That spirit lives in Skylar Schock and Carol Tyner, the creators of Group Chat Girlies. What began as a simple spark of an idea (what if a group chat came to life?) has evolved into a live show and digital newsletter blending comedy, conversation, and the unfiltered truth of modern womanhood.

Beyond the humor, there’s a clear intention behind it. “We wanted to build a space that feels familiar and safe,” Skylar shares. “It’s like sitting with your closest friends after a long week where honesty is the norm and laughter becomes the way through life’s heavier moments.” Carol adds: “Whether someone comes for the comedy or the chaos, they leave with something more subtle but lasting: the feeling that their thoughts, questions, and messy human moments are not just normal, they’re shared ... and we get it!” w

THE CAIN CENTER PRESENTS

CONVERSATIONS AND COMEDY

JULY SATURDAY 18TH

GIRL'S NIGHT OUT WITH STAND UP COMEDY BY SKYLAR SCHOCK & CAROL TYNER, SPILLING THE TEA AT THE CAIN CENTER

Friday, September 25, 2026

2025 SOLD OUT — SPONSORSHIP IS THE ONLY WAY TO GUARANTEE YOUR SEAT!

COCKTAIL HOUR 6 PM · DINNER, AWARDS & DANCING 7–10 PM · BLACK TIE OPTIONAL benefitting HOSTED BY GENERAL TICKETS NOW ON SALE

IANXIETY: THE SIGNAL, THE STORY, and the way out

magine a little girl who’s given a coat that belonged to her mother.

It’s too big and too heavy, but she’s told, “This is what good girls wear.” She wears it because she’s told she has to and she learns at the same time that if she doesn’t, she’s not a “good girl.” By adulthood, the coat is tattered, no longer warm but it’s still heavy. It doesn’t serve her needs, yet she wears it still. No one ever told her she could take it off.

Anxiety is the weight of wearing a coat that was never meant for you to carry forever.

Goodhearted women tend to carry these handmedown coats more than anyone else. You were raised to be agreeable and selfsacrificing. So, when your wants contradict a “should,” anxiety appears instantly. But anxiety isn’t trying to punish you, even though it may feel like it. It’s trying to alert you.

It’s saying: “You’re still following someone else’s rules and not your own.”

At its core, emotional anxiety is the internal conflict between what we want to do and what we feel we should do or are supposed to do. “Should” is one of the most damaging words in the English language. It creates guilt, shame, and anxiety; none of which you deserve.

My coaching focuses on empowering women, and emotional anxiety is one of the most worrying emotions you experience. It makes many women feel like something is wrong

with them and it can be paralyzing. Emotional anxiety is simple to understand when broken down, yet complex in its origin.

The keys to dealing with emotional anxiety begin with understanding two truths:

Anxiety is not a flaw or a weakness in you. And it is one of the most important emotional signals we have.

We unwittingly continue to live by “shoulds” long after childhood. We needed them then but adult women never need “should” because you already live by your code of kindness, consideration, and compassion. “Shoulds” exist for the self-centered; that’s not you.

The remedy isn’t to suppress the anxiety or shame yourself for feeling it; it’s to listen to it and understand that it’s not the enemy. It’s the messenger. Becoming aware of the origin is my start to guiding clients through the transition into true empowerment and into freedom.

Think of anxiety like a smoke alarm. The alarm itself isn’t the fire; its purpose is to get your attention so you can understand what’s burning. Emotional anxiety works the same way. It signals that you need to follow your own rules and your own code ... fully and solely.

Anxiety is that little girl, all grown up, still fearing trouble if she stops wearing

Personal

Development, Emotional Discovery, and Performance Coaching

Dave Jones is the founder of Captive Coaching and Empowerment. For years he has helped good-hearted women overcome drama and trauma to build confidence, set healthy boundaries, and step into their power. His passion for this work is deeply personal, inspired by the struggles of the women in his own life—especially his mom and sister. He’s also the host of the weekly podcast Her Discovered Power and now shares his insights in a monthly column by the same name in Lake Norman Woman Magazine.

that coat. We all wear the coats from our childhood, whether we realize it or not, and until we allow ourselves to shed them, the weight makes us small and tired.

Feel the freedom of ridding yourself of that coat; your good heart is all you need for warmth. You deserve to be the she you were meant to be.

Through coaching and courses, Captive Coaching & Empowerment is committed to helping women live more empowered, intentional lives. E-mail David@captivecoachingandempowerment.com or visit www.captivecoachingandempowerment.com.

Gifts, Gatherings,

& good times

Summer is here, and we all know there’s no better place to soak it in than Lake Norman. Sunshine, boat days, backyard hangs, late-night laughs—this is what memories are made of. And at Home2Court, we’ve got everything you need to make this summer one for the books.

Fourth of July Party-Ready

From festive platters to icy-cold tumblers, our entertaining collection is loaded with patriotic-ready pieces that bring the fun to every lake party, backyard bash, or dockside celebration.

Entertain in Style

Elevated barware, stylish platters, beautiful dinnerware-everything you need to turn any gathering into something unforgettable.

It's Mahjong Season!

Learn, play, and level up in style with stunning sets, fun accessories, and even floating mats for pool or lake play.

Love Is in the Air

Wedding season is here! Build a beautiful home together with our curated registry collections featuring top designers, timeless serveware, chic barware, elegant dinnerware, and more.

love AND gratitude

WE ALL REMEMBER THOSE childhood Sundays after church when things felt slow and sunsoaked on the front porch, while inside the kitchen was alive with laughter, clattering pans, and something always simmering on the stove. For Executive Chef Caylie Hafner of The 500 Club in Statesville, food has always been about far more than what lands on the plate. It’s about connection, family, and the kind of memories that linger long after the meal is over. That early imprint helped shape her path, setting her on a culinary journey from the very beginning.

“I knew I wanted to be a chef when I was in fifth grade,” she recalls. “We were assigned an essay about what we wanted

CHEF CAYLIE HAFNER

THE 500 CLUB

to be when we grew up, and my answer was always the same: a chef. We’re a large family, and Sundays were special. We would challenge ourselves to use everything left in the refrigerator and create meals from leftovers, almost like our own version of Chopped.”

Today, Caylie brings that same philosophy to The 500 Club, where she is helping redefine what a private club experience can be. “One of the things I love most is that we challenge the traditional perception of a private club,” she says. “We’re welcoming, approachable, and family-oriented.”

Creating memorable dining experiences and building relationships with guests is

her favorite part of the job. Yet being an Executive Chef involves far more than crafting delicious dishes. Between scheduling, inventory, budgeting, staffing, and solving unexpected problems, there are days when creativity can get challenging.

“I can appreciate the harder days,” she admits, “because it pushes me to become a stronger leader, trust my instincts, and learn how to manage not only a kitchen but also a team of people.”

Before honing her leadership skills in the culinary world, Caylie was a standout softball pitcher, team captain, soccer player, dancer, and cheerleader. “Sports taught me discipline, teamwork, leadership, resilience, and how to perform under pressure,” she says. “Those skills come in very handy on a daily (or hourly!) basis.”

When Caylie isn’t creating menus or managing a busy restaurant operation, she enjoys gaming with her siblings, who now live in different states but remain exceptionally close in heart. “My family is my biggest support and inspiration, and we love carving out time together. It’s a way for us to stay connected despite the distance.”

“Keep Growing” is Chef Caylie’s favorite mantra, and she is determined to become better each day and continue learning something new. For her, life is about far more than awards or recognition. It’s about creating those special, flavorful moments we treasure most. “It’s all about spending time with the people I love,” she smiles, “sharing a great meal, laughing with family and friends, seeing my team succeed, and ending the day knowing I gave my best.”

And perhaps that’s the secret ingredient behind her success ... combining passion, perseverance, and a genuine love for bringing people together, one memorable meal at a time. w

SOUTHWESTERN chicken salad wrap

I’M ALL ABOUT QUICK LUNCHES during the summer months, and this protein-packed chicken salad wrap is easy to make, delicious, and so satisfying. A fresh twist on a summertime classic, these wraps are the kind of easy, crowdpleasing meal that just belongs in a cooler bag. Light, colorful, and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for pool days, beach trips, picnics, lake weekends, or even quick lunches on the go. While sandwiches will always have their place in summer, wraps like these bring a fun, fresh update to the table ... simple to make, easy to pack, and guaranteed to disappear fast. w

You can make the chicken salad up to a day or two in advance, then just assemble when you’re ready for a quick lunch. Sometimes I’ll put it in tortilla-type wraps, sometimes in lettuce wraps … utilize whichever you prefer or have on hand. It’s also good on its own in a bowl topped with lettuce, avocado, cotija, and tortilla chips (or skip the chips if you’re watching your carbs).

Jessica Bentley has over 10 years of experience sharing recipes and cooking tips with a goal to make everyone feel comfortable in their own kitchen and eat a more colorful plate. You can follow her on all social media platforms and via her website SliceOfJess.com.

NOTE: Sometimes I include black beans, red bell pepper slices, celery, green onions or chives, a dash of hot sauce, and/or almond slivers.

FOR THE CHICKEN SALAD

TO ASSEMBLE THE WRAPS

Burrito Size

Tortillas

Lettuce

Avocado

Cotija Cheese

Crushed Tortilla Chips

Tuned In To What Matters Most

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, we celebrate the people and businesses whose dedication, service, and commitment have stood the test of time. Few embody those values more than Harlan Cato, who has spent nearly five decades helping people reconnect with the sounds that enrich their lives.

For more than 46 years, Harlan has served families throughout the Lake Norman region with compassion, expertise, and a genuine passion for hearing healthcare. Nationally boardcertified in Hearing

Instrument Sciences, he has dedicated his career to improving lives through better hearing.

Harlan Cato is the owner of Beltone Hearing Care Center and a nationally board-certified hearing specialist. With a stellar reputation and patientfocused approach to better hearing, Harlan and his team are here for you. To learn more or schedule a demonstration of today’s advanced hearing technology, call 877-HEAR-123 or visit www.nchearing.com.

“Hearing healthcare isn't one-size-fits-all,” Harlan says compassionately. “I enjoy helping people find solutions that fit their lifestyle and allow them to continue doing the things they love. Technology has come a long way over the years, and it's exciting to introduce people to hearing solutions that can make such a meaningful difference in their daily lives. When people hear more clearly, they often feel more confident, more connected, and more comfortable participating in the world around them ... and that is a beautiful thing!”

weet

SUCCESS

SUCCESS

SHAPED BY FAITH & FAMILY

DREAMS EVOLVE. CAREERS PIVOT. And sometimes the opportunities that change our lives are waiting exactly where we started. For Lake Norman native Marie Strickland, a successful corporate career ultimately gave way to something far more personal: helping others while building a business of her own. Becoming the owner of sugaringLA Lake Norman at just 26 years old, Marie has created a life that blends wellness, connection, and a deep love for the community she calls home.

After graduating from Christ the King Catholic High School, she earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in business analytics from the University of North Carolina Wilmington. She launched a career in data visualization analytics and consulting which prompted a move to Nashville, Tennessee.

But despite professional success, something was missing. “I realized I didn’t want to sit behind a computer all day anymore,” she shares. “I wanted work that felt more personal and meaningful.”

That realization eventually led her in a completely unexpected direction: skincare and sugaring. Marie had long been passionate about living a more natural, non-toxic lifestyle, inspired in part by her own health journey with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). As a teenager struggling with cystic acne, she met an observant esthetician who noticed symptoms others had overlooked and encouraged her to seek medical testing. “That changed my life,” Marie says. “It started me on a path toward understanding my body better and making healthier choices.”

After returning to Lake Norman, Marie enrolled at the Huntersville Institute of Cosmetic Arts where she discovered sugaring, a natural form of hair removal dating back centuries. “I fell in love with it immediately,” she says. “Someone once described sugaring as an art, and now I completely understand why.”

Unlike traditional waxing, sugaring requires precision, patience, and technique. Every client’s hair growth pattern is unique, turning each appointment into a puzzle Marie genuinely enjoys solving.

“It’s challenging, but that’s also what makes it rewarding,” she explains. “And honestly, there’s instant satisfaction in seeing the results!”

Not long after beginning work at sugaringLA Lake Norman, Marie’s natural talent and work ethic became impossible to ignore. Within weeks, she became the studio’s only sugarist, and soon after, the opportunity arose to purchase the business herself.

While her career path has taken some detours, Marie credits her family, fiancé, and deep spiritual foundation for keeping her grounded through every step of the journey. Her Catholic upbringing continues to guide her, providing both peace and perspective amid the busyness of life.

“SOMEONE ONCE DESCRIBED SUGARING AS AN ART, AND NOW I COMPLETELY UNDERSTAND WHY.”

“Every morning starts with prayer,” she says with a smile. “The perfect day is whatever the Lord gives me that day.”

As she builds a business of her own in the community she has always called home, Marie’s story feels like a full-circle moment ... rooted in Lake Norman, guided by purpose, and flourishing right where it all began. w

If you’re looking for a healthcare provider who genuinely cares and

Dr. Kimberly Vass-Eudy at the new Family Care Center of Troutman.

Dr. Vass-Eudy sees patients of all ages and brings years of trusted experience and a heartfelt commitment to helping individuals live healthier, more fulfilling lives. With Dr. Vass-Eudy, you get healthcare that puts YOU first.

Family Care Center

HUMIDITY HACKS: Why Your House Feels Sticky Even With AC On

If your thermostat fan is set to “ON” instead of “AUTO,” moisture can be blown back into the house. “AUTO” usually controls humidity better.

Outdoor air leaks in through gaps and worn seals. Weatherstrip to improve comfort and reduce AC strain.

If humidity stays above 55–60%, a dehumidifier may help more than lowering the thermostat. Less humidity often feels cooler.

SAVINGS

Make a “sun map” of your home. Note which windows get direct sun and when. Afternoon-sun rooms can run 10–15° hotter. Use blackout curtains only on those windows during peak hours, not the whole house.

Turn off heat-producing electronics. Cable boxes, gaming systems, printers, and large TVs all add heat. Use smart power strips and shut them off when not in use.

Fans don’t cool rooms; they cool people. Turn them off in empty rooms to save energy and extend motor life.

TRICK

SNEAKY ENERGY WASTERS IN YOUR HOME

Dusty refrigerator coils make the fridge work harder. Vacuum twice a year to boost efficiency.

Water heaters are often set at 140°F; 120°F is usually enough. Lowering it saves energy year-round.

A clogged dryer vent increases drying time, energy use, and fire risk. Clean it yearly.

For more than 40 years, Horne Heating and Air Conditioning has provided trusted home comfort solutions throughout the Greater Charlotte and Lake Norman region. A full-service company specializing in HVAC, plumbing, electrical services, and water heater installation and repair, they are licensed in both North Carolina and South Carolina. Visit HorneHVAC.com or call 980.249.3718. LKN expert HORNE HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

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.

mind BODY spirit

WHAT

IS A

goodSOUL?

OH

HOW

I LOVE PEOPLE WHO FEEL LIKE SUNLIGHT.

They enter a space and make everyone feel lighter, cooler, and in a better mood. I’m convinced this is somewhat intentional. In the pride they take in their appearance, the way they look you in the eye, a smile, a warm hug. As life would have it, these people too, have been chewed up and spit out by the universe. Don’t let the high vibe fool you. In fact, probably more than most, they’ve walked through heartbreak, grief, disappointment, face-plants, reinvention, and loss with enough grace and humor to inspire even the harshest of skeptics. Oh heck no. They don’t play victim. Instead, they move through life with an understanding that everyone’s dealing with something so take nothing personally.

LKN expert

Patti Alvarez, is the owner of Good Soul Hot Yoga in Mooresville and host of “The Good Soul” show on WSIC Radio. Through thoughtful conversations and inspiring guests, Patti shines a light on the experiences, passions, and journeys that make each person unique. Visit www.wsicnews.com and www.goodsoulhotyoga.com.

In my early years, I thought being in the Good Soul running meant being nice. Helpful. Agreeable. The kind of woman who could hold it all together and would make sure the world knew she had it all figured out. But life has a way of serving up some serious curveballs and BOOM, just like that, man down.

For me, it was my midthirties. Whilst on top of the world came a divorce, a house fire, the loss of my business, and the loss of my parents (a loss I’m still not at all cool with). Somehow, I kept making way through the depths of this landmine infested season of my existence. Then, things took an upturn. I met Manny and fell madly in love. He whisked me up from the gallows and took me from New Jersey to Lake Norman with zero hesitation on my end.

I settled into my happy new normal, clarity set in. What I learned was the most difficult seasons taught me the most and the most uncomfortable places forced me into my very own personal wonderland. They had to happen. I began to understand that being a Good Soul has very little

to do with people-pleasing and perfection and everything to do with our ability to adapt, find the good, and be grateful.

I’ve spent so many years relishing in the glow of what I thought was only in the hearts and minds of other people when it was already ablaze inside of me. The sunlight! The Good Soul! Ahhhh, yes! The world reflects back what we carry within ourselves. When we choose to live with joy, authenticity, compassion, non-judgment, and love, it radiates. When we see our challenges as springboards and totally necessary, we are onto some pure genius. Remember, a happy healthy you is a happy healthy world around you.

What is a Good Soul you ask? A Good Soul is within you. A Good Soul is within me. It’s in all of us; and now, allow me to encourage you to always tap into and cultivate these gifts within. The one thing you can control is YOU—beautiful you, and serve as an instrument for good. I believe in you and so should you ... it’s gonna be work, but I’m confident we’re up for the challenge! w

All roads lead to

Serving families across North Carolina and South Carolina with offices in:

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

GASTONIA, NORTH CAROLINA

STATESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA

WAXHAW, NORTH CAROLINA

Family Law

Child Custody

Estate Planning

Strategic Coaching for High-Conflict Divorces

Make Your Best Decisions For Divorce And Life

AS A HIGH-CONFLICT DIVORCE COACH I CAN HELP YOU:

Stand up for yourself

Prepare to be a confident member of your own divorce team

Get and stay organized

Manage your emotions

Communicate with a difficult or abusive spouse

Create a documentation system that works for you

Communicate with your attorney more efficiently and effectively

Save money

A Divorce Coach is a trained professional who provides emotional support, practical guidance, and strategic planning throughout the divorce process. The term “Divorce Coach” may lead some to believe that a Divorce Coach only works with individuals who have been married or that the service ends when the divorce decree is signed. A High Conflict Divorce Coach works with anyone who is attempting to navigate a high conflict custody battle, whether married or not. In addition, we excel when it comes to the topic of coparenting and communicating with an oppositional former partner.

Ansle Hudson, MS, CDC, HCDC

LOVE WALKING INTO YOUR

HomeAgain.

CUSTOM STORAGE SOLUTIONS

DESIGNED AROUND REAL LIFE.

At Agape Closets, we create beautiful, organized spaces that bring peace to your day and add value to your home.

From design to installation, we handle every detail so you can enjoy the results for years to come. DESIGNED