MMHM Sep 2007

Matthews Mint HillMAGAZINESEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2007 • VOluME 2/ISSuE 5 • AlSO SERVING WEddINGTON, INdIAN TRAIl ANd STAllINGS

www.MatthewsMintHill.com

HigH ScHoolFootballTeams kick off new season

Plus:Return to the Front Porch

Habitat for Humanity ReStores

local Fall Festivals

When it comes to the health of a child, there’s no such thing

as a small concern. From minor procedures to advanced

treatments in medicine, Presbyterian Hemby Children’s

Hospital at Matthews offers you the specialized pediatric

care your children need — right in your own community. We

offer a warm, child-friendly atmosphere that reduces the

stress of hospitalization for children and their families. Plus,

our involvement with Presbyterian Hemby Children’s Hospital

in Charlotte ensures that children of all ages will receive

remarkable care from our remarkable team.

From boo-booto breakthrough medicine.

To schedule a tour, call 704-384-8400.

1500 Matthews Township Parkway, Matthewswww.presbyterian.org/matthews

PRESB-10121 Matt Ped ad MMHM.ind1 1 8/17/07 9:54:18 AM

Are you looking for a change? No doubt most of us in

the Matthews and Mint Hill community will welcome the end of the dog days of summer. This has been one of the hottest summers on record, so a nice crisp, clear fall night of high school football sounds too good to be true. Be sure to take a peek at our cover story by Chay Lee. We have some of the best high school teams in the country right here in our backyard, and Chay talked to the coaches to see what we might expect from this season.

Another activity perfect for cooler weather is relaxing on the front porch. It seems the front porch is back in style. In recent years, the front porches on houses were not as wide as the hallways of your typical house. With newer homes, they seem to have come back in full glory, and I’m thrilled about it. Porches give us a sense of community and bring us together. Families gather to enjoy iced tea and lemonade while they watch the kids play. A large front porch gets folks to drift over and visit. And soon, you’ll see pots of fall mums, Halloween decorations and

trick-or-treaters showing up on front porches around town.

These houses are beautiful to look at as well. In this issue, Sharon Mason writes about this wonderful trend back to the front porch.

And don’t forget to read Chuck Mobley’s analysis on how a new hobby gave him a new way to look at business. I’ve have been a fan of chess for 15 years now, and I know how it can help improve your strategic thinking. Plus it’s a great way to pass time on your front porch.

Get out and enjoy all that Matthews and Mint Hill to offer this fall. From the local festivals to youth and prep sports. Most of all, try to engage in this great community that we call home.

Todd Whitehurst, [email protected]

ContentsoN tHE coVER[12] High school Football

Chay Lee interviews coaches from Butler, Independence, Providence and Weddington.

Cover from BigStockPhoto.

community[18] Word on the streetWhat are your neighbors lookingforward to as the seasons change?

[20] Matthews HistoryLocal historian Paula Lester shares her knowledge of local landmarks.

[24] Calendar of EventsWhat’s going on in Matthews and Mint Hill?

mind/body/spirit[26] Homeopathy and Children

Dr. Michael Smith explores how to use this alternative medicine therapy to treat children.

[28] Adult Day CareBlessed Assurance clients enjoy activities

during Adult Day Care month.

business[30] My Next Move

Chuck Mobley shares his story of a new hobby that turned into a life lesson.

[32] ProfileMeet local real estate agent and

new Mint Hill Lions President Rich Ferretti.

[34] sightings: Business BreakfastBusinesspeople gather for “speed networking.”

arts/entertainment[36] Penny’s Place

Good food, a great crowd of regulars and deep Mint Hill roots make Penny’s a classic.

[40] Fall FestivalsSeptember brings Madness to Mint Hill

and ArtFest to Matthews – get all the details.

homestyles[42] You Got it at the Restore?

A new way to remodel your home.

[46] Front Porch livingSee what makes them special.

Volume 2/Issue 5 • September/October 2007

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Publisher’s Notes[“The only achievement I am really proud of is the friends I have made in this community.” – Gary Cooper]

Volume 2, Issue 5 • september/October 2007www.MatthewsMintHill.com(704) 846-0477, office • (704) 943-1506, fax

PuBlIsHERTODD [email protected]

ART DIRECTORSOMIAH [email protected]

DIRECTOR OF MEDIA TECHNOlOGYDAVID [email protected]

CONTRIBuTING EDITORCYNTHIA CONROW

CONTRIBuTING WRITERsCYNTHIA CONROWCHAY LEEPAULA LESTERRICH LANGESHARON MASONCHUCK MOBLEYDR. MICHAEL SMITH

ADVERTIsING DEsIGNJUSTIN GREENBURGERIC HECHTDANIEL JORDAN

PHOTOGRAPHYRON DESHAIESDAVID DIPRIMASHARON MASONABBY WHITEHURSTTODD WHITEHURST

PREsIDENTTODD [email protected]

GENERAl MANAGERABBY [email protected]

ADVERTIsING sAlEsTODD [email protected], (704) 651-5020

DIsTRIBuTIONMICHAEL WHITEHURST

MattHEWS-MiNt Hill MagaZiNE is published by Carolina Media Solutions, LLC.

325 Matthews Mint Hill Road, Matthews, NC 28105(704) 846-0477, office • (704) 943-1506, fax

This publication copyright 2007 by Carolina Media Solutions, LLC. No part of this publication may be produced, in any form or by any means, without prior written permission of Carolina Media Solutions.

MattHEWS-MiNt Hill MagaZiNE cannot be held responsible for any unsolicited material.

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High school FootballVarsity teams kick off another exciting season BY CHAY lEE

It’s early August in the Matthews-Mint Hill community, and even though school’s not in session, there are students showing up on campus, sometimes twice a day. But they’re not

carrying notebooks and pencils, and they are not in the classroom. Instead, they don shoulder pads, helmets and a love for the game of football.

The quest for the holy grail – the Southwestern 4AA crown – is what drives teams to report to school early and practice hard. Matthews and Mint Hill have two teams that last year were ranked among the best in the nation, so getting to the top of the heap is not going to be easy.

As it goes in every football locker room at the beginning of a new season, every coach believes his team has what it takes to go all the way. And now that CMS has thrown the switch on those Friday night lights at the local stadiums, each team will have the chance at the championship.

Weddington High School: New coach starts freshNewcomer coach Phil Williams has his work cut out for him.

Weddington has struggled in past seasons, but the new Warrior coach hopes he can turn things around. “I had made up my mind not to be head coach again,” says Williams. “This is the only school that would have made me come back.” Williams has more than 30 years of coaching under his belt, with 10 as a head coach. “I have had success as a head coach and I think I’m the right guy to help rebuild here.”

Williams knows what he’s up against. But he thinks the level of competition is a good thing. “You want that as a coach,” he says. “It’s a tough league and we are excited about it.” He says he is not really focused on everybody else. “We are going to just go out there on Friday night and be the best Weddington can be.”

Last year, the Weddington Warriors only won four games. But Williams is not really concerned with last year. “I know they lost more than they won,” he says. “The team I have seen so far are very hard workers and they are the finest group of young men I have been around in my entire life.” He says he doesn’t know much about star

Weddington players get in shape to face some tough opponents.

Weddington coach Phil Williams

Butler coachMike Newsome

Providence coachRandy long

Independence coachTommy Knotts

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Matthews • Mint Hill Magazine • september/October 2007

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Independence coachTommy Knotts

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players but has been impressed with a few guys in the preseason, like running back #42 Stephen Efird. But he really doesn’t like singling players out. “It’s the ultimate team game. If a running back runs an 80-yard touchdown and a lineman jumps offside, he comes back.”

Coach Williams speaks highly of his staff as well. “I am working with men of character, integrity, and great skill, ” he boasts. He feels he has what it takes to put Weddington on the map. “We are trying to build a program that the community can be proud of.”

Providence High SchoolHoping to keep the momentum going

Last year, Randy Long’s Providence Panthers won nine and lost five games and made it to the third round of the playoffs, only to lose a close one to Butler. “That’s about as good as Providence has been in the past,” says Long.

This year’s roster is short 32 seniors. “When you lose that many players you have your concerns,” says Long. But he fully expects the new guys to step up. “I have been pleasantly surprised with our other boys. They worked really hard in the off-season.”

Long is excited about quarterback #9 Justin Siems. Siems started the last three- quarters of the season last year. “We feel really good about him,” says Long. He also likes running back #24 Steven Hatley. Long describes Hatley as strong and intelligent with good vision.

He is also confident in his defense. “Eric Semeniuk #10 is going to be big for us,” says Long. “And defensive back #21 Daniel Smith, who has already committed to University of Hawaii, is a strong corner for us.” Long also has high hopes for #2 Matt Hughston, a senior safety.

Coach Long says that the team is further ahead now than they were last year. “As far as installation of offense and defense, we just need to slow down and work fundamentals,” he says. Long is excited about the season. He says that, because the competition is so tough, his boys have to come out swinging. “We are in arguably the best league in the state of North Carolina,” he says. “We have to be ready every game, because any team is capable of beating us.” But his expectations are still high. “I think we can win it all.”

Butler High School: Eyes on the prizeMike Newsome coaches the Butler

Bulldogs, the team that sent Providence home during last year’s playoffs. Newsome has been at Butler for 12 years and is in his fifth year as

the Providence varsity team readies for the 2007 season.


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head coach. Last year the Bulldogs went 12-3, tying the school’s all-time win record. “We had a tremendous season,” says Newsome. But Butler fell to Independence in the playoffs. “We really want to get over the hump and beat Independence. And this year I think we are at the point where we can do that.”

The Bulldogs were fortunate to lose only six full-time starters to graduation last year. “We really were able to keep the core of our unit,” says Newsome. However, Butler did lose tackles Blake Yarbrough and Lamar Keaton. “Losing two tackles is a big part of our offense. That’s something that we have never had to deal with before, but we have got some guys who will step up.”

Butler is also dealing with the loss of Ryan Houston. “He is Mecklenburg County’s all-time leading rusher,” says Newsome. “It’s tough to lose 2,500 yards of offense.” Newsome says you don’t replace a guy like Houston, but you have some guys that can step in and do some things that Ryan couldn’t do. “Ryan was a big guy, not quite as fast. We’ve got some faster guys in there but we lose some of that size.”

Newsome thinks his offense can really do some damage this year. Returning quarterback #7 Jacob Charest threw for just short of 3,000 yards last year. “We have also got some big-time receivers to throw to in Mickey Brewer #84 and Jarrett Boykin #81.”

Newsome also expects big things from his defense. “We really have a great unit,” he says. Linebackers #34 Hawatha Bell, and #14 Ray Frost are returning, and Newsome says he really gets solid play from them. And he is excited about his secondary, made up of #12 Robert Blanton, #15 Eddie Whitley, and #21

Spencer Adams. “I think we have one of the best secondaries in the country.”

Newsome said that he could not sleep the night before the first practice. He says he is just ready to make it happen. “We definitely have the talent to win it all. It’s just a matter if we can pull that talent together and play together as a team instead of playing as a group of individuals.”

Independence High SchoolNo rest for seven-time state champs

And then there is The Big I. Tommy Knotts leads the Independence Patriots, who have not lost in 108 games, the second-longest win streak in U.S. high school football history. This year, the Patriots seek their eighth straight championship and seventh straight undefeated season. “It’s motivating for the kids,” says Knotts, “They don’t want to be the ones that have the streak broken.” Tommy Knotts began at Independence in 2000. That’s the same year Independence lost its last game.

Though his team won the state championship last year, Knotts felt like they could have done better. “It was not one of my most pleasing seasons,” said Knotts, adding that confidence can be a double-edged sword. “It makes them feel like they can’t be beat. But on the other hand, too much confidence makes you complacent and makes you think you don’t have to work as hard.” Consequently, he says, his Patriots let some teams come close to beating them. “We feel like it’s not whether you win or lose, but it’s about how you play the game.”

Knotts says he loses about 10 to 15 seniors

every year, but they always seem to have kids with the talent to carry them. And this year is no exception.

“We have a new quarterback this year from Vance in #3 Anthony Carrothers,” says Knotts. “He is going to be the guy that makes us go this year.” He also mentions #7 Javon Rembert as a big-play receiver who is strong and elusive. And #8 running back Rod Chisholm just transferred from West Charlotte. “It will be a big boost to have him.”

Knotts says the anchor of their defense goes by the name of Lawrence “Too Big” Williams #96. Living up to his nickname, Williams is a 6’3”, 300-pound defensive lineman. “He is a great interior player that had a great year for us last year,” Knotts says. “With his counterpart defensive lineman Kortne Briggs # 73, the middle is going to be a tough place to run.” The secondary features defensive back Makiri Pugh #28, who is committed to the University of Georgia.

Coach Knotts is confident that they will be able win another championship and remain undefeated. But he admits it won’t be easy. “This is a tough conference,” he states. “Other teams in Charlotte have gotten better. I think that teams have started to catch up with us in the weight room.” He also realizes that because of the year the Patriots had last season, some teams may feel that Independence is beatable. “I’m sure everyone thinks that we have a chink in our armor. But we’ve still got our swagger and a lot of confidence. So bring it on.” MMHM

Got game? The high school football season is already underway. You

can find a full schedule on the Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools website at www.cms.k12.nc.us/departments/athletics

Butler quarterback Jacob Charest and teammate Robert Blanton should be standouts for the Matthews team this season.

Quarterback Anthony Carrothers transferred from Vance and leads the Big I in 2007.

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>> “The kids go back to school.” Teresa Smith, Earp’s Express

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Word on the streetWhat are you looking forward to about the fall?

>> “The smell and color of the fall leaves.” Sandy Webb, owner, Hairy Carey Salon

>> “Our customers watch and rent more movies!” Mark Stewart, owner, That’s Entertainment >> “Playing basketball.” Alex Stewart

>> “Going to the mountains fishing.’” Leah Jordan, Food Lion >> “I don’t want to see it come. I like it hot!” Kim Patterson, Food Lion

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>> “People get out more, socialize more. Neighborhood get-togethers.” George Rutter, owner, UPS Store of Mint Hill>> “It’s that much closer to Christmas!” Sherrill Baucom, UPS Store of Mint Hill

>> “Getting my driver’s license.” Toni Klimovich, Carolina Bagel Company

>> “Cheaper vacation rates.” Teresa Robinson, Food Lion

>> “The changing of the leaves. It’s just prettier.” Brian Mohrman M.H., Herbal Remedies

>> “I like the leaves; fall is beautiful.” Lydia Osipov, Lydia’s Alterations

By official proclamation from the Mayor’s office, October 2007 has

been declared Matthews History Month. The Town of Matthews, the Matthews Historical Foundation and the Matthews Playhouse have scheduled various history happenings during the month.

Matthews School: A century of serviceThe building known to many area residents

today as the Matthews Community Center, at 100 McDowell Street in downtown Matthews, was built 100 years ago as the Matthews School.

To celebrate the building’s centennial, the Matthews Park and Recreation Department will host an open house at the Matthews Community Center on October 6. The event will feature a reception and tours, as well as the opening performance of the play “When the Whistle Blows.” See “Matthews History Month Events” at the end of this article for details.

A familiar building grows and changes through the years

In 1906, the property for a school building in Matthews was purchased from the Griffin family. A “modern brick building” consisting of three classrooms on the first floor and an auditorium on the second floor was erected at a cost of $14,000. The building officially opened to students in 1907.

The 1907 North Carolina General Assembly established a limited number of rural public high schools, placing a free high school education within the reach of all students. Matthews and Huntersville were chosen in Mecklenburg County.

The class of 1911 – a group of 12 students who completed tenth grade – was the first to graduate from the school. By that time, the still-modern building was growing inadequate for the thriving Matthews community. To fund additional classrooms and an auditorium, the school board sold

bonds on the New York bond market, and the expansion was completed in 1912.

The second expansion to the building was completed between 1921 and 1924, when three primary classrooms were added. A science department and library were established, and in 1924, Matthews High School became an accredited secondary school.

By 1928, the school had been enlarged again. This time, six classrooms were added and the façade changed, adding the columns that distinguish the building today. The building continued to be used as a school and eventually was operated by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school system.

$1 building + $4 million renovation = One priceless Community Center

In 1983, CMS sold the building to the town of Matthews for $1. The Matthews Community Club maintained it for several years and Matthews Elementary used it for

Celebrating a Rich HeritageGroups commemorate Matthews history month in October BY PAulA lEsTER

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The Matthews School, pictured here in an early postcard, was built 100 years ago.

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some classes and programs until 1997. In 1997, The Matthews Town Council

approved a $4 million restoration project, which preserved as much of the original building as possible, including the hardwood floors. The building was modernized with safety and accessibility features and outfitted with an elevator. The project remodeled classrooms, added a multi-purpose room and expanded the auditorium. A new, state-of-the-art stage was installed, along with a control room for lighting and sound, new dressing rooms and 358 new seats.

In 100 years, the old Matthews School has come full circle. It was renamed the Matthews Community Center and dedicated November 12, 2000. As it was a century ago, the building is still a very vital part of the fabric of Matthews, not only as an educational venue but also as a performing arts center.

Matthews Historical Foundation marks two decades of service

The Matthews Historical Foundation celebrates its twentieth anniversary this year. Founded by a group of local citizens interested in preservation, the MHF today is a non-profit organization comprised of dedicated volunteers who serve the community through historical programs and preservation of the Reid House. The foundation took ownership of the Victorian-era Queen Anne-style home at 134 West John Street, in 1987.

The group will host a 1900 Day event to celebrate its anniversary on October 20. The Reid House will be decked out in 1900-era finery and open to the public. See “Matthews History Month Events,” for details.

The Reid House: Matthews landmark was once home to a prominent family

At the age of 117, the Reid House is a lovely feature of the downtown Matthews landscape. It was built in 1890 by Matthews businessman Edward Solomon Reid, who sold the house to his sister Ellen in 1893, the same year she married Dr. Thomas Neely Reid. Dr. Reid began practicing medicine in 1889 and faithfully tended to the needs of his patients until his death in 1946.

Dr. and Mrs. Reid’s youngest daughter Nancy was born in the house in 1898 and grew up to become a teacher. She taught in the Charlotte Mecklenburg School system for 35 years and lived in the Reid House until she passed away in 1986. A year later, the foundation took ownership of the home and its members have been proud caretakers since. MMHM

Matthews History Month Events>> at the Matthews community center, Saturday, october 6The public is invited to an open house from 1 – 4 p.m. to celebrate the hundredth anniversary of the building. A tour of the building is slated for 1 p.m., and at 2 p.m., the original play “When the Whistle Blows” will debut in the auditorium. The play brings the history of Matthews to life with the help of local actors. Planned for 3 p.m. is an alumni reception. For more information, visit www.matthewsfun.com or www.matthewsplayhouse.com.

>> at the Reid House, Saturday, october 20 To commemorate the twentieth anniversary of the Matthews Historical Foundation, the organization will host 1900 Day at the Reid House, 134 West John Street, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The home will feature 1900-era displays, including Halloween, entertainment, food preparation, clothing and a medical display provided by Mint Hill Historical society. There will also be period music and activities on the lawn. Details are at www.matthewsreidhouse.org.

At the age of 117, the Reid House is a lovely feature of the downtown Matthews landscape.

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This postcard of the Reid House depicts the home, built in 1890 and now under the stewardship of the Matthews Historical Foundation.

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September Visit www.MatthewsMintHill.com for details on these events and more.

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8Labor Day Football: West Charlotte @

IndependenceAW Shucks!Corn Maze/Pumpkin PatchMarshville Through 11/18

Sibling Class & TourMaternity Center TourPresbyterian Matthews

9 10 11 12 13 14 15Mint Hill Women’s ClubFashion Show Mint Hill Town Hall

Introduction to BreastfeedingPresbyterian Matthews

Football: Vance @ IndependenceWest Charlotte @ Butler

Fall Consignment SaleMatthews UMC

Infant CPR & SafetyPresbyterian Matthews

16 17 18 19 20 21 22Mint Hill Women’s ClubSymphony Guild ASID Showcase (condos @ corner of Providence & Sharon Amity)Through 10/7

MOMS Support CenterPresbyterian Matthews

Football:Providence @ Weddington

Childbirth Preparation WeekendPresbyterian Matthews

Children’s Fall Consignment Sale, Arlington Baptist Church

Christian Music Day ‘07Carowinds

23 24 25 26 27 28 29Church Ministry Fair and BBQChrist Covenant


Scarowinds Carowinds

Football:Butler @ ProvidenceSouth Meck @ Indepen-dence


Yoga KidsCPCC Levine Campus

Matthews ArtFestOn the green @ Matthews Station

Mint Hill MadnessFairview Rd. Park

30Matthews ArtFestOn the green @ Matthews Station

Mint Hill MadnessFairview Rd. Park

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October Visit www.MatthewsMintHill.com for details on these events and more.

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 2 3 4 5 6Childbirth PreparationPresbyterian Matthews

Football: Myers Park @ ButlerEast Meck @ Weddington


Scarowinds Kids Howl-O-FestCarowinds

“When the Whistle Blows”Matthews Playhouse

100th Anniversary of Matthews SchoolOpen HouseMatthews Community Center

7 8 9 10 11 12 13Kids Howl-O-FestCarowinds

Football: Providence @ Independence


Kids Howl-O-FestScarowinds Carowinds

14 15 16 17 18 19 20Kids Howl-O-FestCarowinds

CPCC Fall Break CPCC Fall Break

MOMS Support GroupPresbyterian Matthews

CPCC Fall Break Football: Audrey Kell @ ProvidenceSouth Meck @ ButlerIndependence @ Weddington

Childbirth PreparationPresbyterian Matthews

“The Music Man”Matthews Playhouse


Kids Howl-O-FestCarowinds



Infant CPR & SafetyPresbyterian Matthews

21 22 23 24 25 26 27“The Music Man”Matthews Playhouse





Football:Weddington @ ButlerMyers Park @ Providence





28 29 30 31



Mint Hill Women’s Club Auction


Blood DriveCPCC Levine Campus


Blood DriveCPCC Levine Campus


Fall FestivalsArlington Baptist ChurchIdlewild Baptist Church


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Does your child have allergies, eczema, earaches, digestive issues, or problems

with attention, sleep or eating? Homeopathy can be a safe and effective treatment for these conditions.

Homeopathy is ideal for children as it is a gentle, yet highly effective, system of medicine. The mildly sweet pills, powders or liquids are easy to dispense and are more palatable than many conventional medicines. The highly diluted natural substances that form homeopathic remedies mean that they are safe to use in the very young. More than that, homeopathy can raise the immunity of your children to help deal with illness throughout their childhood.

Take John, a 10-year-old boy, who has been dealing with seasonal allergies that would often develop into a violent cough and eventually pneumonia. He also had stomach cramps that were unexplained by his pediatrician and nightly leg pains that prevented restful sleep. Dawn, his mother,

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Alternative MedicineHomeopathy and Children BY DR. MICHAEl sMITH

Homeopathy is ideal for children as it is a gentle, yet highly effective, system of medicine.

brought John in for homeopathy with me after the drugs he had been prescribed only made his symptoms worse. Shortly after being prescribed a homeopathic remedy, John’s symptoms began to improve.

What is homeopathic Medicine? It is a holistic medicine that recognizes

that mental and emotional symptoms coexist with physical symptoms. It can effectively alleviate childhood anxieties, fears, tantrums, hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder without side effects. Additionally, it helps children become more resistant to colds and flu.

How does it work? Homeopathy turns on the “self-heal”

switch. Chinese medicine calls it the “chi.” Naturopathic medicine calls it the “vis.” Homeopathy calls it the “vital force.” They all describe the energy inhabiting the human body that, when stimulated, moves the human system toward greater health.

Homeopathic medicines are individually selected based on the unique symptoms and presentation of the child. They are derived from plants, animals and minerals and are understood in the following way: A medicine that can cause symptoms in a healthy child can eliminate similar symptoms in a sick child.

Homeopathy addresses a body’s inherited weakness. For example, the triad of allergies, asthma and eczema runs in families. Strengthening a child’s body constitution means they will be less likely to express these familial diseases later in life. Homeopathy works

fast with children because they are usually full of vitality. Acute conditions such as ear infections, tonsillitis and flu can be resolved rapidly using the right remedies, often avoiding the need for conventional medicines.

Homeopathy is a gentle, holistic system of healing, suitable for everyone, young and old. Homeopathy focuses on you as an individual, concentrating on treating your specific physical and emotional symptoms, to give long-lasting benefits.

>> Homeopathic treatment works with your body’s own healing powers to bring health and well-being.

>> Patients are treated as individuals, not as a collection of disease labels.

>> Homeopathy treats all your symptoms - mental, emotional and physical.

>> Homeopathic remedies are gentle, subtle and powerful.

How long has homeopathy been used? Homeopathy has been used for more than

200 years and has an honorable tradition

Micheal smith, N.D. is the founder of Carolina’s Natural Health Center in Matthews.

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dating back to ancient Greece. It was Samuel Hahnemann, a brilliant doctor working in 1796, who developed the scientific and philosophical foundations of this gentler way of healing. These scientific principles form the basis of successful homeopathic practice today.

What happens when you see a homeopath?

Your homeopath understands that establishing good health involves treating both mind and body, so time is taken to listen to your emotional and physical symptoms. To stimulate your body’s own healing process, a remedy closest to your individual symptom picture is prescribed. Healing begins from within your body, strengthening your health and immune system, without any danger of damaging side effects.

Dawn, John’s mother, is now happy to report that “John’s health has continued to steadily improve during the approximately nine months we have been seeing Dr. Smith.” MMHM

Sources: SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER, August 1, 2007, Nancy Mercer, N.D., naturopathic physician specializing in homeopathy and an adjunct faculty member, Bastyr University

Society of Homeopaths, representing professional homeopaths (www.homeopathy-soh.org)

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MiND/boDY/SPiRit

Blessed Assurance Adult Day and Health Care of Matthews serves adults in

Mecklenburg and Union counties. The center is under the direction of a Registered Nurse and allows adults to enjoy the day in a secure, friendly and supervised setting.

To commemorate September’s designation as Adult Day Care Month, here’s a look at some of the many activities the clients at Blessed Assurance enjoy throughout the year. MMHM

Blessed Assurance can be reached at (704) 845-1359 or www.BlessedAdultCare.org

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Blessed AssuranceProviding a safe and welcoming place for your loved ones

1 James Mallas gets a haircut from barber luke.

2 Martha Oldfield and Blessed Assurance employee latarsha Davis in the computer center.

3 Judy Cochrane, William strong and Frank Neil stay fit in the exercise area.

4 latarsha Davis visits with Pearly Wooley.

5 Hubert Hailey, Artie levien, the late Harold Chaney and William Green relax in rocking chairs.

6 Corey Evans and John May shoot some hoops.

7 seymore lewis and Dorothy Mickens enjoy a game of checkers.

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cEMatthews • Mint Hill Magazine • september/October 2007

I recently had the burning desire to expand my focus and become more interesting, at

least to myself. I felt it was time for a hobby. I looked at the choices I had and chose two that I thought would be fun: Photography and chess.

I soon discovered there is way more to this chess thing than first meets the eye.

There are 16 pieces, or figures, per side. The game is played on a board with 64 squares of alternating colors. The object of the game is to capture the opponent’s king. No bloodshed!

As I read and studied this game, an astonishing thing happened. It changed before my very eyes. This game morphed into the most simplistic, beautiful life lesson:

>> Before the game starts, there is a balance. It is the only time this balance exists. After the initial move, things are getting better or getting worse all the time.

>> Within this perpetual imbalance, we find strengths and weaknesses.

>> It is impossible to maintain your position by doing nothing.

>> With every move and position of the board, new opportunities arise as others are closed.

>> The current situation should dictate your next action.

>> If you do not have a plan – an overall strategy of your own – you will quickly become part of someone else’s.

>> It is wise to structure your plan around current resources and positive imbalances.

>> All of your resources should work together, in coordination, to execute the plan.

>> You must apply constant effort to improve your position by using what resources you have and maximizing the positive imbalances.

>> Do not fear mistakes. Learn from them and move on.

Wow. That’s a lot to ask of one game, huh? And perhaps the argument could be made that I need a new hobby. But what does this mean to you, gentle reader?

It’s your move! Currently, there are imbalances in your situation; some strong (positive), some weak (negative).

Here’s the list you knew was coming:1. Identify your goal. What do you wish

to accomplish? What the heck do you want to do? What’s worth some thinking and effort? Why in the world would you want to do that? If you are happy with your answer, celebrate and move on to the next step.

chuck Mobley is a regular contributor and a business development specialist

with the Sandler Sales institute.

My Next MoveA new hobby provides life lessons BY CHuCK MOBlEY

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2. List all of the strengths or assets you have and can use toward the goal. Do these strengths complement the goal? Identify the best use of your positive imbalances. Example: You may not have money (that’s a negative imbalance), but you may possess the ability to influence those who do (that’s a positive imbalance). Or, maybe you’re not very influential, but you have the ability to hire someone who is.

3. List your weaknesses, along with strategies to minimize their dark power. This one is for all you Star Wars fans: Luke Skywalker had a lot of talent, but very little experience. He hooked up with a great coach for talent development, became a Jedi, saved the galaxy – and so on, and so on.

4. Plan. How could you make your advantages work together to magnify their potency? Peter Parker takes photos for the newspaper. Spider Man gets around really fast. Spidey covers a lot of ground, finds the bad guys (and some great photo opportunities) and Peter and Spidey grow in fame and fortune. Together, they are truly a force to be reckoned with!

5. Move. You’ve got your goal; it’s centered on your strengths. You have all your positive imbalances working in one coordinated effort to deliver your hopes and dreams. Reach out and move! You must take action. First things first.

6. Play with gusto. Have no fear! I promise, the worst thing that will happen is that the position of your board will change. New opportunities will open as old ones begin to close. That’s as bad as it gets!

To summarize – for all you bottom-line folks – we are not victims. We all have challenges and strengths. Inventory what you have, come up with a plan and get on with it. Take failure as a learning experience. Add the new knowledge to your bag of tricks and make your next move. MMHM

Contact Chuck at (704) 363-9131 or [email protected]. Also visit, www.Heidrich.Sandler.com

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Rich FerrettiBusy Realtor finds time to serve the community BY CYNTHIA CONROW

I t’s no secret that new people are moving to the Matthews and Mint Hill community

almost every day. It takes most folks a while to learn their way around, make friends and business contacts, and get involved in the community. But not Southern Winds Realty Realtor/Broker Rich Ferretti. He moved from New Jersey to Mint Hill in 2003 and jumped headfirst into community service.

Recently Rich was elected President of the Mint Hill Lions Club and is on the Board of Directors of Lions Services. The local chapter of the Lions, like the Lions worldwide, is a community service organization that helps address challenges like blindness, drug-abuse prevention and diabetes awareness. Rich and the Mint Hill Lions will be out in force at Mint Hill Madness, selling brooms to support the group’s charitable efforts to help the visually impaired. The Lions will also provide free vision screenings.

Along with his colleagues at Southern Winds, including owner Frank Pixley – Rich says you’ll find Frank’s picture in the dictionary under “Nice Guy” – Rich supports Camp Chameleon, a camp for autistic children run by the Siskey Family YMCA.

Then there’s the Bainbridge Home owners Association, of which Rich is president. And since he offices in Ballantyne, he’s active in the Ballantyne Business Network – he’s the president of that organization, too.

Rich decided to make Mint Hill his home and real estate his full-time career five years ago. This came after a lifetime of living in New Jersey and working for AT&T and later, the AT&T spin-off, Lucent Technologies. Like many empty nesters who relocate to Charlotte, Rich and Carol Ferretti followed on the heels of their sons, Rick and Mike, who moved to Matthews to attend the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.

“We had been here many times to visit,” Rich says. “So we knew we liked the area.” And the part of the area they like best is Mint Hill. He says the friendliness of the people here won him over. When asked what’s his favorite aspect of Mint Hill, Rich sums it up: “It’s the small-town atmosphere. Mayberry meets the 21st century.”

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As a real estate agent, Rich is licensed in three states: North Carolina, South Carolina and New Jersey. He loves helping people relocate and find the home that’s right for them. As a part of that process, he encourages them to investigate every neighborhood.

“I’ll say, ‘go to Pineville and have lunch. See Matthews and Mint Hill at dinnertime. Go to different parts of town at different times of day.’ This area has so much to offer and each town is unique,” he says.

When he deals with those moving here from up North, he lets them know that they’ll be welcomed warmly – as he was – and he advises them to keep an open mind, try new things and to get involved.

That advice has served him well, not only as a newcomer to Mint Hill but as a young Air Force sergeant during the Vietnam war. The transition from New Jersey to North Carolina was not quite as dramatic as what

he experienced when he landed in places like Pakistan, Taiwan, the Philippines and Vietnam. But by the time he moved to North Carolina, Rich had already experienced that rite of passage for Northerners: He had eaten grits. Though he first mistook them for mashed potatoes when he was in boot camp, Rich is now a 30-year veteran grits lover.

Rich looks forward to his year as president of the Mint Hill Lions, and to what the coming years hold for his much-loved adopted hometown.

“Mint Hill is and will continue to be a great place to live, to raise a family, and to just be a part of the community,” he says. “My hope for the future is that the town will continue to have great leadership and that it will continue to grow and prosper, with an eye on the future.” MMHM

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Rich Ferretti is the new President of the Mint Hill lions Club.

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Business leaders gathered at Jimmie¹s Restaurant in Mint Hill recently for a

networking breakfast sponsored by Matthews-Mint Hill Magazine.

Magazine staffers Somiah Muslimani, Art Director (top right) and Rick Dillsworth, Sales Executive and Todd Whitehurst, Publisher (below) were among the attendees. MMHM

sightingsMatthews-Mint Hill Magazine Business Breakfast

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Call Tim today to set an appointment!


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Right in the middle of Mint Hill, you can find the authentic heart of Mint

Hill. Because for many folks, the town isn’t defined by growth, new shopping centers, or other recent additions. Instead, Mint Hill has always been about people. You can find the real Mint Hill at Penny’s Place.

I spent a few hours asking people about Penny’s. I asked 17 people where it was. All 17 knew the exact location, and each happily gave me directions. I asked ten others if they had ever eaten there. Again, a perfect 10 out of 10 said “yes.” And each gave it a glowing recommendation as a “great place” or a spot with “great people.” Big chain restaurants would kill for this kind of familiarity.

Penny’s Place lives in an unassuming little building on Highway 51. Almost every inch of wall space inside Penny’s is covered with

gas station signs, vintage automobile ads, car memorabilia, and more. As current owner Billy Kiser tells it, the restaurant’s association with automobiles comes honestly.

H.M. “Penny” Mullis opened Penny’s Place in 1936. Mullis loved fast cars, and while running his restaurant, he was also running racecars. He drove until an injury forced him to stop, but he didn’t get out of racing. In the 1950’s, Penny was a stock car owner. His 1954 Oldsmobile was piloted by legendary driver Buck Baker. They had success, too – one year they won the pole at Daytona.

Through all the racing excitement, Penny’s main business was always the restaurant. Originally, Penny’s Place was housed on the current site in a white building – a former Esso service station. It was a place for Mint Hill neighbors to gather. Penny’s had pool

tables and was known for burgers, hot dogs, and ice-cold beer.

Folks who came to restaurant in the 1950’s might not recognize the place today. The Esso building was replaced by a new structure and pool tables are gone. Visitors from any era, though, would feel right at home.

Certainly, the food is good, but it’s the people that make Penny’s Place. Billy Kiser and his wife Shirley bought the restaurant from Penny Mullis’ sons in 1992. But the restaurant is still in the family; Shirley is Penny’s daughter.

When you talk to Billy Kiser, you instantly know that he loves his restaurant, his customers, and his staff. It is a close-knit group. Linda Simpson and Judy Lance are there every day, serving customers. Zoe Hough runs the grill.

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Penny’s PlaceGood food and good times since 1936 – it’s a Mint Hill Classic BY RICH lANGE

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Penny’s Place founder Penny Mullis, right, poses with one of his early stock cars, along with driver Buck Baker and mechanic Joe Rump.

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Then there are the regulars. Billy speaks fondly of his customers: There’s George Digh and his dog Tag. They drive one of Billy’s cars in the Mint Hill parade every year. George’s dad Reverend Julius Digh officiated at the Kiser’s wedding. Then there are the Dulin brothers, Hamp and Hood, both born on August 24, but seven years apart. They run H&H Plumbing, and eat at Penny’s most every day. Harry Hood is also a regular. His brother Spark was Billy Kiser’s good friend until Spark passed away, but Spark’s image lives on at Penny’s – there is a pencil drawing of him on the wall.

Politicians, business owners, construction workers and retirees all make Penny’s Place a regular part of their week. If you know even a little about Penny’s, you know a lot about Mint Hill. If you have never been – or haven’t been lately– you should make a point to drop in on Billy and the gang at Penny’s Place soon. MMHM

Want to go?Penny’s Place is in Mint Hill on Highway 51 at N.C.

218. It’s open Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; they close at 2 p.m. on Saturday.

Above: Owner Billy Kiser with employees linda simpson, Beth Johnson, Zoe Hough and stephanie strong.Below: Penny’s Place draws a devoted crowd of regulars who come for the food, the camaraderie and the atmosphere.

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Matthews • Mint Hill Magazine • september/October 2007PH

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The heat of summer begins to mellow, the kids head back to school, and everyone

seems to be back on a regular schedule. The month of September ushers in the fall season, which in some communities brings a local fair or small festivals held in schoolyards. But around here, it means some of the largest annual events return to Matthews and Mint Hill.

Coming on the heels of Matthews Alive!, the major festival in Matthews that draws nearly 200,000 attendees over Labor Day weekend, Mint Hill Madness and ArtFest of Matthews fill the last weekend of the month with festivities.

Mint Hill MadnessMint Hill Madness is Mint Hill’s largest

annual event. “Madness” was established in 1983, and last year drew more than 65,000 to the park on Fairview. The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce operates the festival, which depends heavily on community volunteers.

Mint Hill Madness includes arts and crafts, food vendors, games and rides, a beauty pageant, fireworks, and more. The Lions Club will offer free vision screenings, and the Mecklenburg County Sheriff ’s Dept. will have several displays and demonstrations, including K-9 units.

New this year is a children’s area with a separate stage and food vendors geared toward children. The highlight for many, though, is the Saturday morning parade. The parade brings out police cars, fire trucks, politicians, colorful floats, and beauty queens. It also features dozens of classic cars owned or borrowed by Mint Hill residents, who then show them off in the ride along the parade route, which begins on Evans Rd. near Lowe’s foods, takes a left on Matthews-Mint Hill Road and ends at Mint Hill Baptist Church.

Mint Hill Madness happens September 28-30, at The Mint Hill Park on Fairview. Festival hours are Friday, 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. See “Let the Madness Begin” for additional information.

left: Children have the opportunity to learn crafts like pottery at Matthews ArtFest.Above: scenes from a past Mint Hill Madness.

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Here’s a list of events scheduled for Mint Hill Madness:

Saturday9:30 a.m. Parade1 p.m. Pet Show3 p.m. Dachshund race9 p.m. Fireworks

Sunday10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Praise and worship1 p.m. Beauty pageant*

*with special guest Miss North Carolina

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Fall FestivalsMint Hill Madness, Matthews ArtFest share top billing in September BY RICH lANGE

Art Fest of MatthewsThe 22nd edition of the ArtFest of

Matthews takes place in downtown Matthews on September 29 and 30. Organized by the Matthews Chamber of Commerce , ArtFest is held outdoors, with white tents dotting the festival area. Artisans travel from across the Southeast to sell their works in this well attended show. Since its beginning in 1986, the attendance at ArtFest has grown steadily; more than 10,000 are expected to visit this year’s event. Shoppers can browse many different types of arts and crafts, including oils and watercolors paintings, prints, photography, pottery, jewelry, woodwork and more. The event is a juried show with artists competing for more than $2,500 in cash prizes. Rising seniors from area high schools can enter their work for a chance at scholarship money. There’s also live entertainment planned, as well as hands-on children’s activities. MMHM

ArtFest of Matthews will be held September 29-30 on the square at Matthews Street Station. Hours are Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday. noon to 5 p.m.

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HoMEStYlES

It’s almost 10 a.m., and a line is already forming at the Habitat For Humanity

ReStore on Wendover Rd. in Charlotte. Through a window, the waiting bargain shoppers can see a sign that reads Home Supplies on a Budget.

This place is kind of a secret,” says Kevin Reed, who has come to pick up shutters for his mother. “And they have really great stuff.” The great stuff includes everything you would need to fix up a house and anything you might want to put inside it – all sold at a hefty discount. Plus, the ReStore salvages items that might otherwise end up in the landfill. With all of that going for it, the ReStore is a secret that needs to be discovered.

The two ReStore locations in Charlotte – one on Wendover Rd. and one on Wilkinson Blvd. – help fund Habitat for Humanity projects. Habitat is a non-profit group that builds houses for low-income people around the world. Since most of the materials are donated and the workers are volunteers, the cost of providing the homes is relatively low. Folks who move in also get a zero-percent mortgage.

The merchandise at the ReStore is all donated and comes from a variety of sources. “The merchandise comes from manufacturers that have overstocked. It comes from builders who order the wrong thing or a customer that changes their mind,” says Tim Murphy, General Manager of the ReStore on Wendover Rd.

The ReStore has just about everything for inside or outside the home, including sinks, doors, cabinets and other building materials. Garth Will is a real estate investor who has been shopping at the ReStore for six years. “They have saved me a lot of money,” he says. “When you have rental property it’s important to get supplies for a good price.”

The 3 R’s: Reuse, Recycle and ReStoreHabitat for Humanity ReStores help the environment and the community BY CHAY lEE

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ReStore customers David Zepeda and Stephanie Simon – assisted by Matthews store manager Norman belch – pick up furniture for their new business.

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And for Will, the ReStore is like one-stop shopping. “They have good prices and I like to contribute to Habitat. I have bought a ton from them over the years.”

For those who just want a price break on household items like vacuum cleaners, furniture or even coffee pots, the ReStore can help. Kane Geathers picked up a washing machine for $200. “They have very nice merchandise and it’s very reasonable, ” she says. Geathers and her family also live in a Habitat house. She is so impressed with the ReStore that she has told other people about it. “For anyone who is on a budget, it’s a good

place,” she states. “I have told my friends about this place. My mom now comes here too. She got a really nice sofa.”

The rest of the items come from individual donations. The ReStore can send a truck to have things picked up or folks can drop things off. Diane Whorton has come to drop off a chandelier. “We just don’t use it anymore,” she says. “I figured I could help someone else out.”

Mother Nature has to love the ReStore as well. The store’s free deconstruction program takes salvageable things like cabinets, sinks, toilets, windows and other fixtures from

Last year the two Charlotte ReStores deconstructed 112 entire houses and 48 kitchens; that kept approximately 2.5 millions pounds of salvageable material from the landfill.

left: Doors are just a few of the items do-it-yourselfers and contractors can find at the Restore.

Below: staged room set-ups by a volunteer professional interior designer give Restore customers ideas and inspiration.

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HoMEStYlES

Renovating with products from ReStore

Real estate investor Garth Will has finished several projects with products from Restore.

Clockwise, from top: This Jacuzzi bath was a former home show display.

The island in this kitchen re-do came from the home of a NAsCAR driver.

Plantation shutters found a new life as a deck surround.

The tankless toilet by Kohler retailed for $700, but Will picked it up for $15 at the Restore.

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houses that are going to be torn down.And the deconstruction program has been

busy. Last year the two Charlotte ReStores deconstructed 112 entire houses and 48 kitchens; that kept approximately 2.5 million pounds of salvageable material from the landfill. “We are really trying to get the word out to contractors,” says Murphy. “We are quick, clean and efficient. We do it by the rules.” He says it’s a win-win situation. “We are happy because we get good materials and contractors don’t have to pay as much at the landfill.”

ReStore in MatthewsThe Matthews affiliate of Habitat for Humanity has a small ReStore in downtown Matthews. Though it doesn’t have the amount of fixtures and other merchandise that the larger Charlotte stores do, the Matthews Restore offers household items, furniture, lamps and small appliances. On a recent visit, we noticed a few cabinets and windows and lots of lighting fixtures, too.

Habitat Matthews has a deconstruction program, a truck for picking up items and accepts drop-off donations.

Visit the Matthews ReStore at 136 E. Charles Street in downtown Matthews; phone (704) 845-2509. For more information, see www.habitatmatthews.org.

Tim Murphy is manager of the Restore on Wendover Road in Charlotte.

So what kind of deal can you expect to get at the ReStore? On the high end, sofas are $100. Doors range from around $70 down to $5 for a closet door. Hardwood flooring is $1 a square foot. And sinks go for around $30.

The store is run mostly with the help of volunteers. Today Monisah Charakpani is working with a group from Wachovia. “We like to volunteer places where we will be needed,” she said. “We definitely are needed here. It feels good to know you are helping a good cause.”

The Wendover Rd. ReStore is right across the street from Home Depot, Murphy says that it’s no competition at all. “We actually refer people to them and they refer people to us. They may have a project in mind and may buy one thing here and then go over there to get something else.”

In the last 11 years the two Charlotte ReStore locations have helped fund the building of 20 Habitat houses, and this year the organization is on track to build 8 to 10.

The ReStore is the ultimate mix of everyone winning, even Mother Nature. “It’s easy to get up and go to work when you know that you are helping out your community as a whole,” says Murphy. So whether you want to save a few bucks on a home improvement project, buy something for your house, help save the planet, or want to volunteer, the ReStore has something for you. MMHM

Want to ReStore?Details, including store hours, directions, information

about the deconstruction team, how to donate and more – is available at www.charlotterestore.org.

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Return to the Front PorchToday’s homeowners value this neighborly Southern tradition BY sHARON MAsON

HoMEStYlES

The Mullis home in Mint Hill, which is approximately 200 years old, features a classic wrap-around front porch. Trends in new homes hearken back to styles like this from days gone by.

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Years ago, the front porch was as much a staple of Southern life as sweet tea

and Moon Pies. It was deep and wide, with plenty of room for extended families to gather and cool off after the evening meal. Neighbors out for a twilight stroll would stop a while. Couples courted on the porch swing, and the neighborhood busybody used hers as a place to keep an eye on the rest of us. Gradually air conditioning, televisions – and later, computers and video games – kept people indoors. Home designs kept pace with the indoor lifestyle, and the front porch eventually shriveled to nothing more than a covered entry just large enough to keep off the rain as someone rang the doorbell. A large, welcoming front porch became a place associated with days gone by.

But things are changing. Now baby boomers and generation-Xers are reclaiming the front porch, making it one of the hottest trends in the current housing market.

According to the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB) 50 percent of all new single family homes are being built with front porches. And, looking to the future, the NAHB interviewed 500 architects, designers, manufacturers and marketing experts about what they expect to find in upscale housing by 2015 and found that 70 percent expect a front porch to become standard. According to the association’s research, the number of homes with front porches has increased 11 percent in the past decade.

When Charles and Clara Stering moved from California, they chose a home with a front porch in Mint Hill’s Brighton Park community. The Sterings are active, sociable people who are too young to be retired. “We didn’t want to be so isolated,” says Clara. “We were there in our house in California for 21 years and we never knew more than a few of our neighbors.” Sacramento was too hot, too buggy and too wet in the winter to sit outside, but Mint Hill’s climate and the rural feel of their community make it pleasant to sit outside on their shady porch almost every day.

“I want a town like Mayberry”Carol King of Keller Williams Realty

says that her customers are attracted to front porches. “People like other amenities, but they get excited about front porches.” King notes that many baby boomers are downsizing and a front porch offers more living space with very little upkeep.

Nowadays people are staying home more, and they like the sense of community and nostalgia a welcoming front porch provides.


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Double porches are a hallmark of the low country style home, popular in newer neighborhoods as well as historic ones.

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One of King’s customers told her, “I want a town like Mayberry.” Suburban new home communities featuring generous front porches and rear-entry garages aimed at “empty nesters” have sold briskly because people like a small-town feel without giving up the amenities of a larger city.

This isn’t your grandmother’s front porchToday’s front porch can take many shapes. Depending on the

community’s style, it can resemble the double-porch style of Charleston’s historic Rainbow Row homes. Or it can be a wraparound country porch, or a formal portico supported by columns. Today’s porches are often made of aluminum, vinyl, stucco, brick, or synthetics such as fiber cement siding products, for durability and low maintenance.

Traditional rockers, wicker settees and containers of flowers are still popular fixtures on the modern front porch, but outdoor decor has evolved. Outdoor areas often look more like open-air rooms than porches. High-tech fabrics designed for outdoor use look just like indoor fabrics but resist sun and mildew. There is even fringe and cording for pillows that gives a luxurious designer feel to casual furnishings.

On the horizon, brighter colors are expected to eclipse the muted colors that have been popular for the last few years. “We’re seeing brighter colors in outdoor fabrics, stripes, patterns, even polka dots,” says Amy Poole of Summer Classics, an outdoor furniture showroom near downtown Charlotte. Despite the brighter color palette, the furnishings themselves are more substantial than typical patio furniture.

Some homeowners are becoming even more daring. Sculptures, vibrant fabrics, art and eclectic furnishings are becoming popular as residents seek to add personality to their entryway and hint at what may lie inside. “We see more funky, colorful kinds of décor, especially in the very colorful Charleston types of homes. Thirty-somethings want a bright, fresh look and are willing to do something a little more fun,” says Poole.

The front porch unpluggedElegant or rustic, funky or formal, the front porch is making huge

impact on the housing market and the appeal is obvious. In a fast-paced world where we’re bombarded with media and tethered to cell phones, what would be better than to be able to grab a glass of fresh lemonade, set a spell on your front porch and say “hey” to all the neighbors? MMHM

Nowadays people are staying home more, and they like the sense of community and nostalgia a welcoming front porch provides.

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Spruce up your front porch

Here are some simple ways to make your front porch a more pleasant and welcoming place.

>> Restain or repaint the porch itself. It is a simple fix, but it can brighten up the space and create an inviting feel.

>> Add plants and flowers. Breathe a little life into your porch with beautiful annuals and greenery.

>> Remove excess, like mis-matched decorations or old metal railings. This will make your entrance more sleek and stylish.

>> swap out old furniture with something new. Relax in your rocker and enjoy your new porch. Don’t forget the lemonade!

Facing page: Kevin and Gina Mullis enjoy spending time on their front porch with their son Corey Mullis and dog Daphne.

Above: Georgia Miles and her daughter, sammie Miles, relax on their front porch in the Mint Hill neighborhood of Ellington Farms.

Your Home • Your Design • Your Lifestyle

Directions: Take Exit 44 from 485 (Highway 218),

go east one mile, Plantation Falls Estates is on the left.

plantation falls estatesFrom the $500’s 3 lots from .75 to 2.5 acres

Keith Johnson498 River HighwayMooresville, NC [email protected]

704.688.4719704.664.4455 fax704.213.2163 cell

Site Plan for Plantation Falls Estates

7908 Plantation Falls Lane 3 Mint Hill, NC 28227

Sales Model (704) 545-7575

Office (704) 841-2074 3 Toll free (877) 367-4292

Kathie McDowell

[email protected] 3 (704) 201-6257

www.thehomegroupinc.com

MMHM Sep 2007

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Transcript of MMHM Sep 2007