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Publisher’s Letter

South Charlotte is Rich with Outstanding Women and Men Charlotte continues to grow and develop, becoming one of the best cities in the country, thanks to the contributions from outstanding women and men. Some were born here while many have come from afar bringing their talents with them. In this issue we recognize an outstanding woman and man who are notable for their great works. Former Mayor Vi Lyles and Business Leader Johnny Harris have delivered many gifts to the city.

LIVING southcharlottelivingmag.com facebook.com/southcharlotteliving instagram.com/southcharlotteliving

Lyn Coaldwell Publisher Carol Long Editor Melissa Latin Inspirational Director Effie Russell, Melinda Willms, Edie Marshall and Russell Weil Writers Alzheimer’s Association of Western North Carolina and Katie Smith Photography, Truist Championship, Tiffany Boyd, Paul Williams III, Zinicola Italian Restaurant, Ian McDonald and Westgate Town Center Resort Photographers Kaitlin Morgan Design & Production Rachel Moore Ad Designs and Social Media Barbara McKay Advisor

6 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

Others we acknowledge may not be as well-known but are valuable Lyn Coaldwell too. We appreciate how Stacy Gatto, Lynn Zimmer and Kerry Barr O’Conner are taking care of our 55 and older residents at the Village on Morehead so they can live boldly in luxury. Richard Cranmer displays his outstanding skills for creating some of the best Italian food ever at his Ballantyne restaurant, Zinicola. We all love to arrive safely in style and in luxury which is why we highly recommend that you get acquainted with outstanding sales executive Stephanie Schul at Mercedes Benz of South Charlotte. We also suggest you take time this year to celebrate our country’s 250 years of success. We are a work in progress with more to accomplish so we can continue to live in the best country in the world. One way to celebrate could be an outstanding family trip to Westgate Town Center Resort in Kissimmee, FL which we feature in this issue. Celebrate all Outstanding Women, Men and the USA South Charlotte!

Lyn Coaldwell Publisher South Charlotte Living SouthCharlotteLivingMag.com info@SouthCharlotteLivingMag.com

SKY’S SKY’S SKY’S SKY’S the limit! thethelimit! the limit! limit! SKY’S the limit!

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aretssurrounded by thethe benefi ts of living among theofheritage neighborhoods of Dilworth, Here, you are surrounded Here, by theyou benefi of living among heritage neighborhoods Dilworth, Eastover and Myers Park, as well as Charlotte’ s leading cultural attractions, Eastover and THE Myers as well as| Charlotte’ s leading cultural attractions, shopping, dining and world-shopping, THEPark, FENTON |22BEDROOM BEDROOM BATHS || DEN | |2,200 SQUARE FEET FENTON || 3 BATHS DEN 2,200 SQUARE FEETdining and worldclass healthcare institutions, including highly rated Atrium andTh Novant Health facilities. The class healthcare institutions, including highly rated Atrium Health and Novant HealthHealth facilities. e Here, youarearesurrounded surrounded thelevel benefi tsfiof of living among the heritage neighborhoods ofofDilworth, s the impeccable nishes, elevated of service, exceptional dining, vibrant social calendar Here, you byby benefi living amonglevel the heritage neighborhoods Dilworth, community’ s impeccable ficommunity’ nishes, elevated of ts service, exceptional dining, vibrant social calendar Eastover andMyers Myers Park, wellamenities Charlotte’ leading cultural shopping, worldandPark, resort-style make e Village onattractions, Morehead ashopping, premierdining address inand Charlotte. and resort-style amenities make Theasas Village Morehead aThpremier address in Charlotte. Eastover and well asason Charlotte’ ss leading cultural attractions, diningand worldTHE FENTON | 2 BEDROOM | 3 BATHS | DEN | 2,200 SQUARE FEET class healthcare institutions, including highly rated Atrium Health and Novant Health facilities. ThTh e e class healthcare institutions, including highly rated Atrium Health and Novant Health facilities. community’ s impeccable nishes, elevated of service, dining, vibrant social Here, you by the benefits|level of3 living among theexceptional heritage neighborhoods of Dilworth, THEcommunity’ FENTON | 2are surrounded BEDROOM BATHS | DEN | 2,200 SQUARE s impeccable fifinishes, elevated level of service, exceptional dining, vibrant socialcalendar calendar FEET Eastover and Myers Park, as well as Charlotte’ s leading cultural attractions, shopping, dining and worldresort-style amenities make The Village on Morehead a premier address in Charlotte. andand resort-style amenitiesinstitutions, make Thincluding e Village onrated Morehead a premier address in facilities. Charlotte. class healthcare highly Atrium Health and Novant Health The THE SHARON | 2 BEDROOM | 3 BATHS | DEN | 1,962 SQUARE THE SHARON | 2 BEDROOM | 3 BATHS | DEN | 1,962 SQUARE FEET Here, you are surrounded the benefi ts of level living among thedining, heritage neighborhoods ofFEET Dilworth, community’sby impeccable finishes, elevated of service, exceptional vibrant social calendar

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NEW spacious residences under construction NEW spacious residences under construction

and resort-style amenities make Th e MOVE-IN Village on Morehead aAND premier address inconstruction Charlotte. NEW spacious residences under RESERVE YOURS MOVE-IN FOR THE HOLIDAYS. YOURS AND FOR THE HOLIDAYS. EastoverRESERVE andNEW Myers Park,spacious asTODAY well as Charlotte’ s TODAY leading cultural attractions, shopping, dining and worldresidences under construction HURRY! ONLY TWO REMAINING. HURRY! ONLY TWO REMAINING. SHARON |spacious 2 BEDROOM | 3rated BATHS | DEN | 1,962and SQUARE class healthcareTHE institutions, highly Atrium Health NovantFEET Health facilities. The NEW|including residences THE SHARON 2 BEDROOM | 3 BATHSunder | DEN |construction 1,962 SQUARE FEET community’ s impeccable fiYOURS nishes, level ofMOVE-IN service, exceptional dining, social calendar RESERVE AND FOR THE HOLIDAYS. THE SHARON | elevated 2TODAY BEDROOM | 3 BATHS | DEN | 1,962 FEET vibrant IN-COMMUNITY CONCIERGE HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERVICES | IN-COMMUNITY CONCIERGE HEALTH AND WELLNESS SERVICES | SQUARE RESERVE YOURS TODAY AND MOVE-IN FOR THE HOLIDAYS. HURRY! ONLY TWO REMAINING. RESERVE YOURS TODAY AND MOVE-IN FOR THE HOLIDAYS. and resort-style amenities make The Village on Morehead a premier address in Charlotte. HURRY! ONLY TWO REMAINING. HURRY! ONLY TWO REMAINING.

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Women’s and Men’s Issue 18

Gratitude for Former Mayor Vi Lyles Her Outstanding Service to the City was Unmatched

Johnny Harris is a Generational Leader Making a Difference An Outstanding Man Who Has Helped To Grow and Shape Charlotte

Three Dynamic Women Help Adults 55 and Older Create New Life Chapters The Village on Morehead Is A Community for Living Life Boldly

As an Outstanding Chef and The Owner of Zinicola Italian Restaurant in Ballantyne Richard Cranmer’s Passion and Love for Family and Great Food Is Obvious

Stephanie Schul Has a Dynamic Background As An Executive Her Sales Performance is Outstanding at Mercedes Benz of South Charlotte

30 Publisher’s Letter 6 Who, What, When, Where 14

40 8 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

Former Mayor Vi Lyles

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Beautiful and Generous Hearts in the Charlotte Community Attended the 9th Annual Alzheimer’s Memory Gala This year’s event, held at The Westin Charlotte, raised over $650,000 for Alzheimer’s research, education and quality care through the Alzheimer’s Association - Western Carolina Chapter. Chaired by Wes and Allison Misson, the 2026 Memory Gala was held at The Westin Charlotte and featured a live and silent auction, dinner and live music by 5 of a Kind. The evening also featured inspiring moments highlighting the mission and impact of the Alzheimer’s Association, including the powerful story of Bob Nix and his wife Debbie, who are living the Alzheimer’s journey today. The recipient of the 2026 Alzheimer’s Award of Excellence was Dr. Laura Baker, PhD, professor of gerontology and geriatrics at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and associate director of the Wake Forest Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center. This cause is also deeply personal to Dr. Baker, who recently experienced her father’s decline and passing due to Alzheimer’s disease. > For more information on the Alzheimer’s Association and how you can give your support, please visit alz.org/northcarolina.

14 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

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WHO, WHAT, WHEN AND WHERE

The 2026 Truist Premier Championship Event Was Held at the Quail Hollow Club This year’s elite traditional PGA Tour Tournament was held in Charlotte with Truist as the title sponsor for the first time. The renowned Quail Hollow Club’s 7600 yard course is considered one of the best on the tour. Tournament winner, Kristoffer Reitan won the 2026 championship with a total score of 15-under-par (269 strokes), to claim his first career PGA Tour victory. The legendary, trailblazer Charlie Sifford was honored during the week of the Truist Championship with a statue of him insalled to recognize him as the first black PGA tour member.

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For

for He

Writer: Edie Marshall and Effie Russell Photography: Provided 18 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

We Are So Grateful to

rmer Mayor

i Lyles

er Unmatched Service to Our City

s a five-time mayor, Viola Lyles is a historic public servant who helped

to shape Charlotte’s growth. She served as the city’s first Black female mayor from 2017 until stepping down in June of this year after spending nearly four decades working for the Queen City. She has now made the well deserved decision to step down early in her last term to spend quality time cherishing her beautiful

Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026 | SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING 19

family. Vi, who was born in Columbia, SC, came to Charlotte like many others from SC in search of success and she certainly found it. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Queen’s University and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She worked for the City of Charlotte for nearly 30 years as a budget analyst, budget director, and assistant city manager before entering the political arena. Her Political Milestones Were Many Vi was elected to the Charlotte City Council as an at-large member in 2013 and served as mayor pro tem before winning her historic election as mayor in 2017. She went on to win five consecutive terms, making her the city’s second-longest serving mayor. She Leaves A Legacy Like No Other Vi championed affordable housing and significantly expanded housing bonds and funds. She guided the city through major economic expansion, job creation, and transit planning. In addition to her service to our city, Vi has served well in her church, Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, and has served in various community organizations helping to make life better for others. 20 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

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Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026 | SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING 23

Johnny H

Has Been a Leader H

Shape Charl

Writer: Effie Russell and Edie Marshall Photography: Provided

As a generational commercial real estate developer and civic leader, there are only a few other men who have cultivated growth and shaped Charlotte as well as Johnny Harris. He has fundamentally helped to shape Charlotte’s modern skyline, helped to create the foundation for enhancing South Charlotte’s suburbia and has helped to stimulate Charlotte’s economic landscape and quality of life. As a legacy partner at Lincoln Harris (now Lincoln) and president of the Quail Hollow Club, Harris’ impact spans across real estate, professional golf, and local policy to make it the best home for all of us. In many ways he walks in the footsteps of his grandfather, Cameron Morrison, who served as a governor in our great state of North Carolina. His high profile in the Charlotte business community is comparable to his grandfather’s stature in politics and service when he governed North Carolina. 24 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

Harris

Helping to

lotte

Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026 | SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING 25

A Legacy of Real Estate Transformation Johnny Harris’ family history in Charlotte real estate is deeply rooted. His family transformed the family’s extensive dairy farm land into the upscale SouthPark development that we love so much today. Another big contribution to South Charlotte was his help with developing additional family land to become Charlotte’s Ballantyne area. Once mostly his family’s grounds for hunting and fishing, his family pioneered this massive high profile project to modernize this southern part of the Queen City as an ideal place to live, work and play. While doing so, he and his family were mindful of the community. This was especially evident when they helped to relocate the historic Big Pineville AME Zion Church away from the site where the Ballantyne Country Club is currently located. The church was founded on Ballantyne land in 1841 by members of African descent. Harris and his family helped the church move from their original Ballantyne site to another prime location in the Ballantyne area so that the Ballantyne Country Club could be built. He and his family were intentional about showing respect and consideration for the history on the grounds. Now, part of the Ballantyne area is being further reimagined by new ownership for even more enjoyment into the future. One of the more recent and notable achievements that Harris and his partners have championed includes spearheading the uptown Legacy Union multiple buildings and mixed-use development which includes the old Charlotte Observer site. He has also helped to guide other developments like the 1,400-acre River District and Rea Farms communities. He Brought the PGA Tour Back to Charlotte Beyond real estate, Johnny Harris has had a monumental influence on Charlotte’s sports and tourism footprint as the president of the Quail Hollow Club. Leveraging lifelong ties in the golf world, he was instrumental in returning the PGA Tour back to the city in 2003 with the Wells Fargo (Wachovia) Championship at Quail Hollow, creating one of the most popular annual tournaments on the PGA circuit. Most recently he successfully secured a 7-year, $200 million dollar plus agreement with Truist Financial to establish the Truist Championship at Quail Hollow through 2031. Mr. Harris also supported other sports teams as they arrived in Charlotte over the decades. He has always recognized the potential value that these amenities could deliver to the Charlotte community economically and culturally. A Leading Civic Voice in the Community Harris is widely regarded as one of Charlotte’s fiercest leaders and advocates for collaborative business success in the community and in the state. He has never shied away from the political arena to protect the city’s economic growth engine. Harris notably campaigned against House Bill 2 (HB2), warning lawmakers of the economic and reputational damage it could pose for Charlotte and the state. He has also frequently spoken out to urge local politicians to avoid political posturing, suggesting instead that they maintain the pro-growth collaboration that has historically fueled Charlotte’s rise. Through his decades of visionary development and civic engagement, Johnny Harris remains a defining architect of the modern Charlotte success story which continues to be written around Charlotte being a wonderful place for quality living and for being the greatest economic region between Atlanta and Washington. 26 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

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These Three Dynamic Women Are Helping Adults 55 and Older Create a

New Chapter in

Aging Boldly Written by: Effie Russell and Russell Weil

Photography: Paul Williams, III

t The Village on Morehead their talents, experience and commitment help seniors fulfill their fresh visions of quality living with style, connection and ease in the heart of Charlotte with all the advantages of being close to all the amenities in South Charlotte and Uptown. 30 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

The Village on Morehead Executive Director, Stacy Gatto, is an accomplished senior living professional. Beginning her career in 1996, she’s had nearly 30 years of experience in the industry. Stacy has held diverse roles from activity director to sales and admissions, ultimately becoming an administrator. In April 2024, Stacy joined The Village on Morehead as Executive Director, where she oversees the community’s operations and fosters a culture rooted in harmony and respect for both residents and team members. A longtime Charlotte resident, Stacy has also served as an instructor for the North Carolina Assisted Living Administrator certification program for 18 years, mentoring over 500 students. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Wright State University. Outside of work, Stacy is a golf enthusiast, certified Zumba instructor, and yoga lover who enjoys live music and beach vacations. She lives in Pineville, NC, with her two children, Tyler and Avery. As The Village on Morehead ownership’s representative, Lynn Zimmer is the Senior Vice President of New Development and Sales.

Stacy Gatto

Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026 | SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING 31

Lynn brings nearly 30 years of senior living sales and marketing experience to her role. She began working with owner Jim Gray in 2010, supporting pre-leasing and initial marketing efforts at The Village at Woodlands Waterway in Houston and she helped to successfully launch eight additional new developments with the ownership. Lynn is passionate about new construction and the opportunity it creates to build strong, resident-centered communities from the ground up. Her expertise spans lease-up strategy, occupancy stabilization, pricing, focus groups and long-term sales and marketing planning. In her current role, she is focused on achieving stabilization at The Village on Morehead while supporting future development opportunities.

Lynn Zimmer

Driven by compassion and a shared vision with ownership, Zimmer is motivated by helping older adults navigate one of life’s most important transitions. She is committed to fostering confidence, connection and positive energy within each community she serves, with a focus on creating environments where residents can truly thrive. Kerry Barr O’Connor’s history in the Charlotte community makes her the perfect Director of Business Development at The Village on Morehead. Kerry is the ideal person for working with residents and guests at The Village on Morehead. She is a giver and a helper by nature and is a real asset to the tenants in the Village’s community. Kerry joined The Village on Morehead in January 2026 as Director of Business Development, bringing more than 30 years of leadership experience in nonprofit management, advancement, and community engagement. A former newscaster, Kerry transitioned into mission-driven leadership through the AmeriCorps VISTA program and has since built a distinguished career, including more than 20 years as a C-suite executive in Charlotte.

Kerry Barr O’Connor

Visit villageonmorehead.com or call 704.831.8000 to make an appointment to meet the team and take a personal tour of The Village on Morehead at 727 E. Morehead Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.

Most recently, Kerry served for two decades at Dress for Success Charlotte, where she held roles including Executive Director and Chief Advancement Officer. During her tenure, she successfully reopened and expanded the organization, led transformative capital campaigns, grew sustainable funding streams, and oversaw significant programmatic growth. Her leadership helped elevate the organization nationally and globally, earning numerous awards and recognitions for innovation, impact, and excellence. Kerry is widely respected for her ability to build strong partnerships, guide complex initiatives, and lead with purpose. Her background in advancement, governance, and strategic growth supports The Village on Morehead’s commitment to exceptional service, meaningful relationships, and long-term value. Outside of work, Kerry enjoys hiking, cooking, and reading, and remains actively engaged in civic and volunteer efforts. She lives in the Charlotte area with her husband Tim and cherishes time with her children and grandchildren.

32 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

Receive digital copies of South Charlotte Living Magazine directly to your email box for free! Subscribe at info@southcharlottelivingmag.com! Printed copies of our magazine are available on the racks at 21 South Charlotte Harris Teeter stores! Or you can subscribe to receive them directly to your mailbox. Go to subscribe@southcharlottelivingmag.com

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Owner and Chef Richard Cranmer Serves Outstanding

Italian Food at

ZINICOLA Written by: Melinda Willms and Effie Russell Photography: Provided

is family restaurant, Zinicola Italian Restaurant in the heart of Ballantyne, has a reputation for great authentic Italian dishes and an atmosphere that is perfect for entertaining family and friends. It is a favorite destination for locals around the area and for those visiting from out of town. Rich was one of the first students to graduate from Johnson and Wales University in Charlotte with culinary skills. However, his talents for creating Italian dishes began while learning from his nonna and madre. Like most Italian families, Richard's mother cooked everyday 34 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

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and he paid attention. When his family traveled to Italy every summer he watched his grandmother make family meals from scratch. He brought recipes back with him and some he used for his creations at Zinicola when he opened it in 2017. Even the pasta is made by hand and the sauces and desserts too are made in house. RIchard’s love for family and food makes him passionate about his restaurant and gives him the ability to deliver a unique interpretation on Italian cuisine. You can feel the love as soon as you walk through the door and savor the aroma from his open kitchen where some of the best Italian food you’ll ever have is being prepared. Rich is living his dream at Zinicola and he wants you to not only taste the good food but feel the love when you visit. He is also excited about contributing to our vibrant growing city and he can’t wait to have you visit.

Make your reservations today at zinicolaitalian.com, 14835 Ballantyne Village Way, #140, Charlotte, NC 28277 or call 980.299.2979 36 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

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Written by: Melinda Willms and Effie Russell Photography: Ian McDonald 40 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

Stephanie’s Dynamic Background Makes Her an Exceptional Sales Executive at

edes Benz

th Charlotte H

aving grown up in Michigan, Stephanie Schul’s love for the auto industry has always run through her veins. Michigan has a history of domination in the auto industry and many of Stephanie’s family members and those she grew up with have worked in the industry. In Michigan, she learned a lot about the industry and hard work. Stephanie also learned how to be a leader and a top-notch executive after receiving an MBA and a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management. She worked in human resources within the aerospace industry in Washington, DC. Later she developed skills in sales while providing services to customers in the competitive real estate industry in Maryland and in Charlotte. During recent years Stephanie has blended all her talents and skills together to become one of the best salespeople assisting customers shopping for luxury cars at Mercedes Benz of South Charlotte. Succeeding as a luxury auto salesperson requires combining empathy, product knowledge, and resilience to present and deliver the finest luxury vehicles from Mercedes Benz of South Charlotte to customers in Charlotte and beyond. Whether they prefer a sedan, something sporty or an SUV for the family, Stephanie is very capable of assisting them. By prioritizing a consultative, relationship-driven approach, Stephanie has been successful at turning one-time sales into long-term customer loyalty. She has a passion for the business, for Charlotte and for those living in our wonderful community. With luxury cars at higher price points, buyers love working with people they can trust and they want to purchase a luxury vehicle that they can believe in. Stephanie puts her customers at ease with a welcoming presence without alienating them with pressure. Fostering trust during a single purchase naturally creates a client relationship that leads to repeat purchases and referrals. We are recognizing Stephanie as an exceptional woman in sales because of her “customer needs-assessment” approach. Instead of simply pushing inventory. She has been successful as an advocate for her customers to help them make the best decisions during their luxury car purchase experience. Stephanie always asks targeted questions, listens to understand the buyer’s lifestyle requirements and matches them up with the perfect Mercedes Benz for them. Success as a top salesperson requires absolute command of Mercedes Benz products and the broader luxury auto market. As a professional, Stephanie understands the business very well, including the latest Mercedes Benz safety features and technology in their cars to the nuances of leasing, financing, and trade-in valuations. She confidently helps to educate her customers so they can dismantle the skepticism they often bring with them when they walk into any dealership. With Stephanie’s ability to consult with her customers and with the supportive environment from the team at Mercedes Benz of South Charlotte, everyone who walks in is sure to make the best luxury automobile decision for them. Contact Stephanie Schul at 704.724.7332 to make an appointment to see the finest selection of luxury vehicles from Mercedes Benz and for your next purchase or visit her at Mercedes Benz of South Charlotte, 950 N. Polk Street, Pineville, NC 28134, mbcharlotte.com. Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026 | SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING 41

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FYZICAL Pineville is actively changing the healthcare landscape by providing patients with a higher level one-to-one, proprietary, and innovative patient care. Rehab Services: • Pelvic • Health • Sports • Amputation • Pre/Post Surgical • Orthopedic

Additional Services: • Pediatric Orthopedic • Balance & Vestibular Therapy • Fall Prevention

980.237.5987 FYZICAL.COM/PINEVILLE-NC pineville@fyzical.com • 10761-B Park Rd., Charlotte, NC

WHAT TO DO WHEN THIEVES HAVE TAKEN OVER YOUR COMPUTER! • • •

Disconnect from the internet right away Shut down your computer completely, not just put it to sleep SEEK HELP FROM US BEFORE USING YOUR COMPUTER AGAIN!

COMPUTER AND SOFTWARE REPAIR & SERVICE: • • • •

Virus Detection and Renoval Data Backup and Recovery Firewall and Internet Security Computer and Laptop Hardware and Software Repairs

CALL US! 704.408.5646 www.zeaba.com

Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026 | SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING 43

Family Fun During Any Season at

Westgate Town Center Kissimmee, FL

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Writters: Effie Russell and Edie Marshall Photography: Provided It’s not always easy to enjoy seasonal or holiday breaks with the entire family, especially when members may have different interests. However, we found a resort in Central Florida that has everything for everyone. Westgate Town Center Resort in Kissimmee, Florida, is a sprawling, family-friendly destination located just one mile from Walt Disney World.

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Combining the comforts of home with extensive resort-style amenities, it features fully furnished villas, 14 heated pools, and the on-site Shipwreck Island Water Park. This Prime Location Meets Endless Entertainment Located at 7700 Westgate Boulevard in Kissimmee, the resort puts you minutes from Orlando’s major theme parks. It is so close to Walt Disney World that you can actually enjoy the nightly fireworks from the resort without leaving your home away from home at Westgate Town Center. It’s really nice that you don’t need to leave the property to have a packed vacation schedule. The property is designed as a stand alone entertainment hub featuring multiple on-site amenities and activities. Shipwreck Island Water Park is a multi-level aquatic playground featuring thrilling slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones that younger kids will really be excited about as well as teens too. There are also 14 outdoor pools and hot tubs which give plenty of options for swimming and relaxing for kids and adults in the Florida sun and in the evening too. A Jurassic miniature golf space on the property is a fun, prehistoric-themed 18-hole course that can be fun for all ages. For more entertainment there is a private movie theater and the Mystery Fun House Arcade. There are several on-site dining options to explore once the family is worn out from all the fun and ready to eat and relax. They can check out elevated pub grub and watch sports at Drafts Sports Bar & Grill, grab Mexican favorites at Los Amigos, or satisfy sweet teeth at the Sweet Dreamery. There Are Spacious Villas for Every Family Size Forget cramped hotel rooms. The resort boasts nearly 1,900 units that range from cozy studios to sprawling four-bedroom villas. Whether you are traveling as a couple for a quick weekend stay or hosting an extended family reunion for multiple days, each unit includes fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes, spacious living areas, and all the comforts of home. If you are considering a trip to Central Florida, the resort offers flexible booking options and is a short 24-mile drive from Orlando International Airport (MCO). 46 SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING | Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026

See more at westgateresorts.com/hotels/florida/ orlando/westgate-town-center-resort/

Art Galleries:

Physicians & Medical:

Providence Gallery

Arboretum Dentistry Arboretum Gynecology FYZICAL Pineville Dr. Kristin Black, New Day Wellness Center

Auto - New, Used, and Service: Mercedes Benz of South Charlotte

Education: Barbara McKay, Speaker and Author Carmel Christian School

Professional Services:

Israel Devaux, Pianist Charlotte Ballet

Zeaba Computer Solutions Paul Williams III, Photography Second Hands Daniel Coston, Photographer

Financial Services:

Real Estate:

Wealth Enhancement Group Gina LaRosa, Mutual of Omaha Mortgage

Jackie Smith Judge, Charlotte’s Finest Properties, RE/MAX Executive Michelle Zawacki, BHHS Carolinas Realty Robin Nitsche, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty Marsela Green, BHHS Carolinas Realty Kristen Strause, Brandon Lawn Real Estate Monique Brown, Michael Londyn Realty

Entertainment:

Fitness & Wellness: Restful Essentials

Home Furnishings and Interior Design:

Nouvelle Furnishings Stage It, Staging, Interior Designs and Renovations Claudia Ricciardone, Claudia Josephine Design

Home Services: A Diamond In The Rough Cleaning Window Source of the Carolinas Electric Solutions, Inc. Gatsby Glass of South Charlotte Shack Shine Charlotte

Hotels:

Restaurants: C&W Steakhouse Ballantyne Sunflour Baking Company Zinicola Italian Restaurant MIZU Wood-Fired Grill Restaurant Enzo’s Italian Market

Salons and Spas:

Hyatt Centric SouthPark

BJ Cherry Hair Designs Le Petit Spa

Philanthropy:

Shopping:

Allegro Foundation Alzheimer's Association Arts and Science Council Cross Country For Youth Isabella Santos Foundation

DSRVNG

Veterinarians and Pet Care: Charlotte Companion Animal Hospital Women’s and Men’s ISSUE 2026 | SOUTH CHARLOTTE LIVING 47