The Connection Jan 2005

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CONNECTING Concord, Cornelius, Davidson, Harrisburg, Huntersville, Kannapolis, Lake Norman, Mooresville, Salisbury and University Area

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2005

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 1

Heirloom Jewelry Combines Beauty, History –––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Fish Tales –––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Lake Norman Fishing Forecast –––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Make Roadmaps Not Resolutions –––––––––––––––––––––––– 5 Business Spotlight ––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Blood Thinning Drug Complications Reduced –––––––––––––––––––––––––

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Best Investments In 2005 –––––––––––––––––––––––––

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HOME Show –––––––––––––––––––––––––

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JANUARY

Happenings & Events ––––––––––––––––––––

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New Year, New Look, New You –––––––––––––––––––––––

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Computer Mom –––––––––––––––––––––––

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Good Luck In The South 2005 –––––––––––––––––––––––

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Fat Eye For The Skinny Guy –––––––––––––––––––––––

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Worship Directory –––––––––––––––––––––––

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Jack Lalanne FITNESS KING –––––––––––––––––––––––

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Classifieds –––––––––––––––––––––––

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

WOMEN’S AUTOMOTIVE SOLUTIONS page 6

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2005

Heirloom Jewelry Combines Beauty,ByHistory Gail Martin Who says all jewelry has to be new? Heirloom—also called estate—jewelry can capture the romance of past and present together in one package. Heirloom jewelry is jewelry that has a history within the family of the giver. In antique terms, the word is provenance—in other words, a story. The piece itself need not be exceptionally valuable in its materials to have great sentimental or even historical value. A grandmother’s engagement ring, given as a graduation gift to the great-granddaughter who knows her only through family stories. A father’s pocket watch, passed down to a son. The strand of pearls worn at one wedding, now handed down to a new bride in the next generation. Such “regifting” is acceptable when there is an intimate connection between the giver and the recipient, such as parent to child or grandparent to grandchild. But there need not be a blood relation. A treasured piece of family jewelry can be given to a dear friend when one is certain the recipient will appreciate both the piece itself and the intent of the giver. In such cases, it is the sentimental value of the item and not its appraisal value which matters. Estate jewelry, on the other hand, is usually bought for its unique appearance, intrinsic value or provenance but does not

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carry personal sentimental value. This is a situation when it is useful to have a good jewelry appraiser involved, such as those on staff at Donald Haack Diamonds and Fine Gems, Ltd. Especially when the piece of estate jewelry is expensive or when it is being bought with an eye towards investment value, it is essential to know that the “find” is all it appears to be. The experts at Antiques Roadshow emphasize the condition of a piece of estate jewelry as being the most important determines for value. Start by turning the item over and examining its back. Some pieces have been refashioned from other pieces of jewelry— for example, creating a pendant out of one remaining earring. Other items may show signs of repair—traces of soldering done badly, evidence of old damage, even missing stones replaced by paste or glass. Joyce Jonas of Antiques Roadshow notes that the habit of keeping jewelry in a box with other items inevitably leads to damage. She expects that almost every pre-1850 piece of jewelry has been repaired at some point in its life. Well-made repairs, done with skill and using matching metals, may not detract significantly from value. Poorly done repairs using lead solder, which damages other metals and is often subject to

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breaking, or repairs that substitute inferior gems for missing stones, can be ugly and thus detract from value. If the item is a minor purchase and so unique as to assuredly bring joy to the intended recipient, these telltale signs may not matter. But if the piece is expected to appreciate over time, it is wise to have the sale contingent upon receiving a good appraisal by a third party. Many estate pieces include diamonds with European cuts and the better pieces are examples of fine craftsmanship. According to Nina Callaway at about.com, experts use “antique” and “estate” to mean different things. Callaway defines “antique” as being over 50 years old, while “estate” is used to describe an item of any age which is resold. She splits hairs further to describe “vintage” as being a piece from any era that is made in the style of an older fashion. Heirloom, estate or vintage engagement rings fascinate some brides-tobe with the idea of taking part in a grand historic saga with the ring linking past to future. Make sure the future bride’s feelings on the subject are well understood—for some, a “used” engagement ring conjures up different sentiments entirely! Estate jewelry can be purchased through select jewelers or discovered at auctions, estate sales, flea markets and

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antique shows. Heirloom jewelry lurks in the keepsake boxes of family members or in long-forgotten attic trunks in one’s own home. Funky and one-of-a-kind vintage and antique jewelry can express as much about the personality of the wearer as it does about the intentions of the giver. For those with an appreciation for the past, estate and heirloom jewelry offer the chance to relive history. Donald Haack Diamonds and Fine Gems Ltd. specializes in buying brokering, selling, appraising, evaluating and setting diamonds, precious gems and pearls. They also offer a wide variety of high quality estate jewelry, and provide free verbal evaluations (certain conditions apply). Their specially trained and educated team delivers highly personal service, ensuring the buying experience is unforgettably positive. Find them at www.donaldhaack.com or at their only location, 4611 Sharon Road, Charlotte, NC 28211. Gail Martin is a local freelance writer. Contact her at [email protected].

Office: 704.606.8648 500 Church Street Concord, NC 28025 email: [email protected] www.theCCconnection.com

The connection is published monthly by Cabarrus Charlotte Connection, Inc. dba Marketing a Difference Publications & The Connection. Entire concepts Copyright © 2005 by The Connection. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without permission from the publisher.

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FISH TALES

& OTHER STORIES/CATAWBA CAT.

The man holding court in the River City Tackle Shop was telling his tale to all who would listen. He stood between the spinner and crank bait sections where a small crowd was spellbound by his yarn. The storyteller was dressed from head to toe in camouflaged clothing, but the patterns didn’t match. His hat was two sizes too large, allowing the bill to partially cover both eyes. The faded pants he wore were tattered and torn. His almost new shirt was wrinkled and covered with gobs of stuff. River mud caked the soles of his boots and the tops glisPRO tened with silver fish scales. ANGLER It took a few minutes for me to put in all together, but I finally Gus Gastafson surmised that the camouflaged man was either a commercial fisherman or a paid-for-hire-get-a-guide. Nudging the fellow standing next to me, I asked, “Who is the dude spinning his yarn?” I was told to hush up and listen. So, listen I did. The man was a river guide who specialized in fishing for world record catfish. His handle was “Catawba”, short for “Catawba Cat”, his real nickname. The tale he expounded on was about a morning fishing safari with a world famous outdoor writer. It seems that the writer was doing a story about fishing for hundred pound plus catfish and Catawba had offered to show him how to catch them. The trip began with a cool ride upstream in a twenty-two foot flat-bottom boat. They stopped at a logjam on a sharp turn in the river and secured the boat with a brush hook attached to a line of small diameter. While the writer was taking pictures, Catawba lowered a king-sized blueback herring to the bottom. His heavy saltwater tackle consisted of a six-foot stand up tuna rod affixed with a 10/0 Penn International reel loaded with eighty pound test monofilament line. The drag on the big gold reel was wrenched as tight as it could be set, to prevent a fish from pulling off any drag. A twelve-ounce sinker and an 8/0 hook completed the rig. Catawba told the writer that a big catfish had to be reeled to the surface in less than two minutes. Any time longer than that, the fish would realize it was hooked and would tangle itself in a rock or in a tree top. He went on to say that while fighting a big cat, one of three things was likely to happen. First, the tackle could break from the strain of the fight. Next, by having the drag so tightly set, the fish could pull the angler out of the boat. And finally, the fish could make it to the surface, be manhandled into the boat and bring about another challenge, as a hundred pound catfish can wreck havoc with everything on deck. Having said that, Catawba raised his pant’s leg and showed the writer where a big cat had stuck a fin through the muscle in the calf of his leg. It wasn’t long before Catawba set the hook on a big one and the boat began to rock. He wound down on the reel as hard as he could and within a minute the fish was lying quietly on top of the water. Catawba’s voice began to tremble and his face turned grim as he related the remainder of the story to his tackle shop audience. He said he knew he had a world record cat when he saw its big head amid ship and its tail out past the engine and wrapped around the stern. Quick math told him that the fish was at least fifteen feet long and over two-hundred pounds. Catawba yelled to the writer to get the gaff and stab the monster cat. The writer didn’t move. His fallen jaw was evidence that he was in awe with the size of the fish. Catawba barked his order several more times, but the writer was frozen in place. Finally, the fish realized he was hooked, shook his head a time or two and headed south toward Davy Jones’ Locker. The tuna rod broke from the surge and the big one swam away to fight another day. Catawba ended his saga by blaming the writer for getting “Buck Fever” and costing him a world record. He vowed never to fish with the man again...be reminded that small fish have large tales. Gus Gustafson of Lake Norman Ventures, Inc. is an outdoor columnist and a full time professional striper fishing guide on Lake Norman, NC. Visit his web site, Striper Fishin’ With Gus! at http://www.lakenormanstriperfishing.com/ or call 704 489 0763. For additional information e-mail Gus at [email protected]

2005

LAKE NORMAN FISHING FORECAST by JANUARY 2005asGustoldGustafson

The first week of the New Year has historically been one of the better weeks of the winter season for striper fishing. If the weather is moderate, fish will appear in popular haunts, including the hot spots on favorite river and creek runs. Should water temperatures fall into the mid to high forties, expect to find fish in the discharge chutes of Lake Norman's Marshall Steam Plant and the Nuclear Power Station. January is for hardy anglers who dress appropriately. Early morning anglers should look for diving birds at sunrise. Terns and gulls signal the presence of stripers feeding below the surface. Exercise caution when approaching the fray, as fish scatter when frightened by the noise of a boat. Casting spoons or bucktails to surface feeding fish should produce immediate strikes. Once surface feeding action slows, switch to using shad, herring or trout for bait. Savvy anglers use live baits pulled from planner boards towed slowly behind the boat. Boards come in various sizes and colors and are designed to spread baits to either side of the boat. The larger swath made by pulling the boards, allows an angler to cover up to three times more water. Lines can be fished with or without weights. Most action occurs early or late in the hot hole areas, but fish can be found throughout the day. The hot holes are a favorite location for spotted and largemouth bass. Hot water stripers tend to be smaller than those found in open water. They are lured to the discharge by the warm water and by millions of small forage fish. Ice flies, crappie jigs, small spoons and bucktails are popular artificial baits. Drifting live baits also produces good results. One can fish without a boat since bank fishing is permitted at both hot hole areas. If history repeats itself, Ramsey,

Mountain and Stumpy Creeks will see a large number of fishermen throughout the month. Anglers can expect to catch stripers twenty to twenty-four inches in length with an occasional fish of more than six pounds. Should the creeks become crowded, plenty of open water fishing is available. Lake Norman is the state's largest impoundment with thirty twothousand acres of surface water. January is an important month for Lake Norman tournament fishermen. One of the biggest tournaments of the year is hosted annually by the Lake Norman Striper Swipers. This year's event will be on Saturday, January 15, 2005 at a site to be determined. Past winter Invitational Tournaments have drawn as many as one hundred boats with anglers from all over the southeast. Proceeds from this event will support the programs that benefit Lake Norman's striper fishery. More information about this long-running event is available at http://www.lnssfishn.com/ . A Striped Bass Fishing Seminar will be conducted at the Bass Pro Shops in Concord, NC on Tuesday, January 18, 2005. The twohour program, beginning at 6:30 p.m. is free and open to the public. Lake Norman striper fishing guides Craig Price and Gus Gustafson will demonstrate methods used to catch stripers on area lakes and rivers. Sessions will include ways to effectively use electronics, how to throw a cast net, and how to rig live and artificial baits. See ya out there! Gus Gustafson of Lake Norman Ventures, Inc. is an outdoor columnist and a full time professional striper fishing guide on Lake Norman, NC. Visit his web site, Striper Fishin' With Gus!, at www.lakenormanstriperfishing.com/ or call 704 489 0763. For additional information e-mail Gus at [email protected]

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MAKE ROADMAPS, NOT RESOLUTIONS By Linda Barclay

When the hustle and bustle is over, the last holiday gift’s been opened, parties are a thing of the past and the last Christmas cookie’s been eaten, we’re left with an anti-climactic letdown, holiday bills and a list of New Year’s resolutions. If you haven’t made an actual written list, you’re like the majority of us who have a new resolve every morning when we catch our reflection in the mirror. But your mental list looks something like this: A. Quit smoking B. Lose Weight C. Start working out D. Leave your dead end job Or, (heaven, forbid!) all of the above. Your intentions are good and you truly want to stick to your guns this year. This year it’s going to be different. This is the year you’ll make it happen. Whoa, baby, back up and take a deep breath! It’s only going to be different this year if you have a plan. Let’s face it, you wouldn’t get ready for a road trip to a destination where you’ve never been without a roadmap, would you? Of course not, and making serious changes in your lifestyle requires a roadmap of it’s own sort. First of all, zero in on one or two (but no more) of your resolutions and get ready to make them a reality. That requires a change in your thinking. A “resolution” sounds nebulous, doesn’t it? Not quite solid, something that takes willpower to accomplish. Now let’s make that “resolution” a “goal.” A goal has substance. It’s something that you work toward a step at a time.

NOW LET’S ADD SOME SMARTS. LET’S MAKE YOUR GOAL: SPECIFIC: Get a small notebook that you’ll use just for your goals this year, or use a section of your planner. Take a few minutes to write your goal. Pinpoint exactly what it is you want to accomplish. Be specific.

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1. Brown-bag lunch at least twice a week if eating lunch our or ordering in tempts you to overeat. 2. Drink more water and less sugar sweetened beverages. 3. If you usually east dessert several times a week, pass it up once or twice in favor of fruit at the end of your meal. 4. Add low-fat or fat free creamer to coffee instead of regular creamer.

MEASURABLE: Make sure your goal is measurable. That means you must have a way track your progress. ATTAINABLE: You must feel capable of accomplishing your goal. REALISTIC: Be brutally honest about this one. If your goal is to quit your dead-end job and find another, for instance, are there jobs available in the market of your choice now? TIMETABLE: You must set a future date of completion for your goal. If you don’t, there’s no accountability factor. Share: Tell someone you know about your goal. Make sure that this person is supportive and has your best interests at heart. It’s not only a second measure of accountability but also a source of help and encouragement when you need it. Okay, you have the goal but so far that’s no different than a resolution. Here’s where the PLAN comes in. Let’s say, for example that your goal is to lose 25 pounds. Let’s look at the above acronym. It certainly is Specific and you can Measure it by checking the scale every so often. It is Attainable within a one year time frame and definitely Realistic since it’s less than a pound per week on your Timetable of one year. Great! Now it’s time to write out your plan. It might go something like this:

Notice that you are not creating a world of deprivation or giving yourself tasks that are unrealistic in order to reach your goal. No matter what your goal is, your plan must be one you can live with. Small lifestyle changes can make a huge difference over time. Use your notebook to jot down any obstacles that may prevent you from reaching your goal. Next to that obstacle write a solution or a suggestion on how you might handle it when it comes your way. For example, an obstacle to reaching your weight loss goal may be a tendency to feel that you must eat everything on your plate. A solution could be to use a smaller plate when eating meals at home and asking for a lunch portion when eating out. By recognizing obstacles in the beginning and planning in advance how to handle them, they are no longer deterrents to your goal. Use your SMARTS and watch what changes will come your way! Linda Barclay is a fitness professional and Certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant who owns “A Total You for Women” in Mooresville, NC. She has authored numerous articles on fitness and nutrition, conducts a weekly Lifestyles Class in her facility and is available for local workshops and lectures. Contact Linda at [email protected] or 704-662-6066.

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT WOMEN’S AUTOMOTIVE SOLUTIONS

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When It’s Time To Go Car Shopping... We Can Save You The Hassle,Time, & Money Too! o Auto Choice For W The

Office: 704.423.0458 Email: [email protected] Web: www.WomensAutomotiveSolutions.com

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The five most stressful times in a persons life are and not necessarily in order; buying a home/moving, career change, birth/death of a child, wedding/divorce and buying a car. This months spotlight is on a company who can help reduce some of the stress in your life, save you time and money. In 2004 a new concept in car buying was launched by Michelle Lundy, a woman coming from the automotive industry with 20 years of experience. Michelle launched Women’s Automotive Solutions, LLC with the concept of wanting to empower women in the automotive negotiation process. Allowing them to save time money and avoid the stressful process of car buying. In a short period of time Women’s Automotive has gone nationally allowing the company to reach levels that has even surprised Michelle. Because of the growth and demands Michelle has brought on Sandra Walsh to join the company. With Sandra's talents and successes she will work with Michelle in bringing to the table top customer service allowing the company to rise to the next level of service in a rapidly growing niche. Lundy, whose experience in the car business includes positions in sales, dealership management, financing and customer service, has formed Women’s Automotive Solutions, LLC. Her goal: to bring a unique buying experience to the traditional frustrating process of car haggling to women. For a modest fee, Lundy will help guide the entire car selection and buying process. She conducts a search for her client’s preferred make and model of new or used car with sought after options, negotiates price and financing terms that satisfy buyer and seller alike then arranges delivery. Her clients only have to show up for a few minutes to sign the contract and take the keys. This three step process will make the purchase of a new vehicle a pleasant one for each customer she works with. The nominal fee for the service is only $300.00. It is a flat fee and not a percentage based on the dollar amount of your purchase as in most cases when buying a home. So you are assured that you are getting the best value

for your dollar and not “bumped” into something you don’t want or need. Women’s Automotive Solutions has numerous testimonials from satisfied clients who have saved $1000.00’s on purchases had they made them without Women’s Automotive Solutions. One recent client helped saved over $9000.00. The service is more than worth it for even an inexpensive car. My daughter spent almost three months finding the right car in her budget. Had we know about Women’s Automotive Solutions she would have saved a lot of time and aggravation. “I want to make car purchasing an exciting and pleasant experience, and enable women to save hundreds to thousands of dollars” Lundy said. “A major part of that is making sure both parties can come together and agree on price and terms that each party walk away satisfied and feeling the process worked.” National statistics indicate women yield substantial influence over purchasing decisions across the American economy. According to the Federal Bureau of Economic Analysis, women make 60 percent of new car purchases and control 89 percent of all purchases of goods and services. The automotive industry has failed to recognize the importance of these stats. Women’s Automotive Solutions, LLC will not. Men can save time and money with the knowledge and experience found at Women’s Automotive Solutions too. Almost half of their clients are men who recognize the value of their time and the savings that can be found utilizing Women’s Automotive Solutions. Lundy said her industry experience will be a valuable resource for women who find themselves too busy to car shop because of the demand of their jobs, of their families or those who simply do not want to deal with the unpleasant experience of automotive negotiations. Give Michelle or Sandra a call today to make your next car buying experience a pleasant one with no hassle. Women’s Automotive Solutions can be reached at 704.423.0458 or visit the “The Auto Choice For Women” online at www.womensautomotivesolutions.com

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Blood Thinning Drug Complications Reduced NOVANT HEALTH & PRESBYTERIAN NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED Presbyterian Healthcare and Novant Health have received national recognition for an initiative to improve medical care that will have a positive impact on patients throughout the United States and beyond. The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations named Novant Health and its hospitals and clinics a 2004 winner of the annual Ernest A. Codman Award, which recognizes excellence in the use of outcomes measurement to achieve improvements in the quality and safety of health care. Novant Health established a system to reduce patient drug complications related to the use of the anti-blood clotting medicine Warfarin, which is more commonly known to consumers by the trade name Coumadin. Warfarin is the 11th most frequently prescribed drug in the United States. At Novant Health facilities alone, approximately 25,000 patients receive the medication, including 12,000 patients at Presbyterian facilities. “We’re being contacted by hospitals from around the country who want to learn from our patient care improvement project,” commented Paul Wiles, president of Novant Health. “Our initiative will also be featured on a national satellite network so that other hospitals can hear more about what our physicians and staff accomplished. It’s nice to be recognized by a national honor, but it’s even more rewarding to share what we learned about improving patient care with other hospitals and health systems.” Patients taking Warfarin can include those suffering from stroke, heart and vascular disease, blood conditions and arthritis. The medication helps prevent complications which might occur because a patient’s blood clots too easily. But the medication can also lead to complications such as bad bruising, nose bleeds, excessive bleeding from a recent wound or injury and more serious problems such as intracranial hemorrhage, stroke, other neurological deficits and even death. As a result of its project, Novant achieved a 38 percent reduction in Warfarin related complications for inpatients and a 51 percent decrease for individuals treated in outpatient settings. Three hospitals in the Charlotte region participated in the award-winning project: Presbyterian Hospital, Presbyterian Hospital Matthews and Presbyterian Orthopedic Hospital.

Novant initiated the Warfarin project after participating in a national collaboration among 13 health systems and hospitals that helped discover that one of the most common preventable adverse drug complications was related to Warfarin therapy. The organization also developed real-time, alert-based interventions, established better monitoring and education for patients and initiated overall better anticoagulation services for patients. Named for the physician regarded in health care as the “father of outcomes measurement,” the Ernest A. Codman Award showcases the efforts of healthcare organizations and individuals who improve the quality and safety of health care. A panel of national experts in quality measurement and improvement select one recipient from seven different award categories. Novant received the Codman award in the multi-organization category. Last year’s recipient of the same award was the Cleveland Clinics. “We applaud the winners of the 2004 Codman Awards for achieving improvements that are measurably advancing health care,” says Dennis S. O’Leary, M.D., president, Joint Commission. “These leaders are truly the vanguard of raising the bar for health care quality.” “We recognize the prestige associated with the Codman Award,” explained Wiles. “We also understand the real significance of this honor and its humbling message. Our physicians and staff improved the quality of care for a group of patients, whose lives are better because of this initiative. And we need to be relentless in improving the quality of medicine, for each and every person who entrusts their care to us.” Novant Health formally received the award in December at the Joint Commission’s national conference on Quality and Patient Safety in Health Care, held in Chicago. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations evaluates and accredits more than 15,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States, including more than 7,800 hospitals and home care organizations, and more than 7,300 other health care organizations that provide long term care, assisted living, behavioral health care, laboratory and ambulatory care services.

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2005

THE BEST INVESTMENT IN 2005 SET YOUR EXPECTATIONS HIGH

By Doug Scroggins

What will the best investments be in 2005? You can read countless financial magazines, newsletters and web sites. You can listen to just as many money based TV and radio shows. Each of them will tell you what the best investments are going to be in 2005. Few of them will be right. Even those that are right will rejoice over any investment that delivers double-digit returns this year. One reason for such low expectations (and results) is lack of control. After all, how much control do any of these sources have over the stock market? But what if you could get control over your investments? What if this control enabled more than a 1000% financial return while ALSO providing you with clarity, peace of mind and fulfillment? How valuable would such an investment be? David, a Financial Advisor in the Charlotte area made such an investment. His investment delivered a 1684% return. Rick, an executive in Rochester, NY made a similar investment and earned a 1778% return. Mary, a small business owner who also lives in the Charlotte area earned a 2500% return on her investment. The good news is; each person is expecting similar financial returns in 2005. The great news is; the return on their investment included clarity, peace of mind and fulfillment. What investment in 2005 could deliver these financial returns and a priceless list of personal returns? I’ll give you a hint: it is probably the place that you invest the least amount of money (and time and energy). The investment is you. By investing in themselves the individuals above took control over their greatest asset; one’s values, beliefs, purpose and vision. They used this asset to communicate acceptance to their superiors, peers, employees, clients, family members, friends, and even strangers. Given the priceless value of acceptance for who one is, these individuals were motivated to give in return. How motivated? David’s staff, clients and superiors were motivated enough to give him the commitment, confidence and support required to turn the worst performing office in his region into the best performing office in his region in one year.

Rick’s superiors were motivated enough to give him the promotion that he had been passed over on the past two years: the same promotion that he did not believe that he would receive until at least the end of 2006. Mary’s clients were motivated enough to give her the deal she felt was all but lost. After more than 20 years in the business she knew a lost client when she saw one. By investing in herself she turned a lost opportunity into a closed deal and realized the 2500% return noted above. By making a decision to invest money in their greatest asset, David, Rick and Mary realized financial returns that are not only astounding one-time gains, but represent just the beginning of what they can expect for years to come. Add to these gains the priceless value of clarity, peace of mind and fulfillment and you have the hottest investment for 2005. How much are you willing to invest in you? Whether it is one hour of reading each week, sitting down for more family meals, going for walks with your spouse, spending more time with your children, or hiring your own personal or business coach, the return on these investments is unmatched anywhere. Why wouldn’t they be? Just think about what acceptance means to you. If an individual accepted you for who you are with no judgment, criticism or rejection, what would you be willing to give in return? If the individual worked for you would you promote him or her? If the individual was your boss, how hard would you work for him or her? If the individual was your sales rep, how much would you buy from him or her? Finally, if the individual was your husband, wife, brother, sister, mother, father, neighbor, or friend, how much would you love him or her? Doug Scroggins is the owner of The D&S Experience. The D&S Experience works with individuals, groups and organizations to fulfill their personal and professional potential. Formerly a Fortune 500 executive and CEO e-doc Group PLC, London, England, Doug now focuses his life on helping the life of others. For more information or to schedule a no-cost, no obligation consultation, please contact Doug at [email protected] or on 704 892 4982.

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HOME SHOW The Giant Home & Garden Show at the Cabarrus Arena seems to have something for everyone. At the first annual event you will find just about everything for your home and landscape needs under one roof... builders, developers, financing options, contractors, building materials, decks, pools, spas, entertainment systems, storage, plants, landscape displays/materials, window treatments, home accents and much more. As a recent home buyer I look forward to this chance to get a lot of great ideas and direction from exhibitors not to mention the time I will save trying to find such a wide variety home related business. If you are looking for a new or first time home there are scheduled to be people who can guide you in the best financing option for you. Then you too can start the fun part of home owning, decorating and accenting! You can spruce up a plain yard into a peaceful retreat or neighborhood showplace. Bring that dreary room to life with new paint and furniture. You can see how to up your homes value with an updated kitchen. Hope to see you at the show!

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JANUARY

HAPPENINGS & EVENTS Not responsible for schedule changes, errors or omissions

S AT U R D AY 1 HAPPY NEW YEAR

M O N D AY 3 ABA Basketball Carolina Thunder vs Gwinnett Cabarrus Arena tip off 7pm $

TUESDAY 4 Start Off The New Year With YOGA! Town of Cornelius Parks and Recreation is pleased to announce a new partnership with a popular yoga instructor from the area, Kelley Akin. Kelley will be teaching 4 new classes at Cornelius Town Hall beginning January 4th, 2005. With 16 years of teaching experience, Kelley’s style is dynamic and inspiring and appeals to both beginning and advanced students. Fees vary based on number of classes signed up for. Limited scholarships are available. Information and registration, contact Kelley through www.lakenormanyoga.com or by calling 704-655-8782. ABA Basketball Carolina Thunder vs Gwinnett Cabarrus Arena tip off 7pm $

W E D N E S D AY 5 Concord Opry Jam Cabarrus Senior Center Live Country Music 6:30-9pm Cabarrus Senior Center 331 Corban Ave, SE info 704.920.3484 FREE

T H U R S D AY 6 Country Music Jam Kannapolis Moose Lodge 6:30-9:30pm 990 Beatties Ford Rd Kannapolis FREE

F R I D AY 7 Home and Garden Show Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 9am-8pm Kid’s Super Fun Center, Plant and Garden Center, Carolina Raptors and special appearances by Andrew Dan-Jumbo with TLCs While You Were Out and Michael Payne with HGTVs Designing for the Sexes www.showtechnology.com

Prime Time Appraisal Group, Inc. 704-892-2060 Fax: 704-892-2080 www.primetimeappraisal.com

Live bands-Dugi light up the night at Quaker Steak and Lube on 7731 Gateway Lane NW off Speedway Boulevard in the Concord Mills area. Phone: 704-979-LUBE

Metro Opry Jam Cultural Center 109 Old Statesville Road Huntersville 7-9pm Featuring country music with Matt Cook & T. J. Too & Special guests FREE

S AT U R D AY 8

Bible History Bash 2005 Cabarrus Arena 6:30pm-10pm Featurning The Anchormen, The Gospel Enforcers, Faith Road, Earnest Lee, and, Second Touch $ Home and Garden Show Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 9am-8pm Kid’s Super Fun Center, Plant and Garden Center, Carolina Raptors and special appearances by Andrew Dan-Jumbo with TLCs While You Were Out and Michael Payne with HGTVs Designing for the Sexes www.showtechnology.com

S U N D AY 9

Home and Garden Show Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 9am-8pm Kid’s Super Fun Center, Plant and Garden Center, Carolina Raptors and special appearances by Andrew Dan-Jumbo with TLCs While You Were Out and Michael Payne with HGTVs Designing for the Sexes www.showtechnology.com

2005

“Business Before Hours” 8-9:30AM The Mooresville-South Iredell Chamber of Commerce morning networking event will be held at the Chamber Office, 149 East Iredell Avenue, downtown Mooresville. Chamber members, guests and prospective members are encouraged to take advantage of this great networking opportunity. Bring business cards and literature to distribute to others and promote your business. reservations are encouraged and appreciated, please call the chamber office to register 704-664-3898 or Email [email protected] FREE

T H U R S D AY 1 3 Health, Diet and Exercise Question and Answer Seminar 8:30-10:00am at the Fairfield Inn- Mooresville. The workshop is open to the public.Now is the time to start your New Years expercise program, how to prevent some of those startup injuries and what you should be eating. Seating is limited; please call 704-664-3898 to reserve your space. FREE

F R I D AY 1 4 KIDS OUT FUN DAY Jeepers/Concord Mills 8am–6pm for Youth grades K-5. Mom and Dad have to work and your kids need a fun place to be come join us for KIDS OUT FUN DAYS!! Activities include field trips, games, playground time and more! For information or to register, call us at The Waymer Center 704-766-2220. $20.00 per residents; $30.00 per non-residents

T U E S D AY 1 1

Adult Badminton Have fun while you exercise! At the David B. Waymer Center 10am-12pm All active adults (seniors) are invited to join this new program that offers adults in our communities an opportunity to bring out their competitive nature as they battle against each other in a friendly game of Badminton. Contact: Huntersville Parks and Recreation 704-766-2220 FREE

W E D N E S D AY 1 2

Live band- Kenny Floyd lights up the night at Quaker Steak and Lube on 7731 Gateway Lane NW off Speedway Boulevard in the Concord Mills area. Phone: 704-979-LUBE Home School Physical Education Starting 1/12/05-3/11/05 from 10–11:30am at Waymer Center Gym; 14200 Holbrooks Rd, Huntersville Parks and Recreation Department is pleased to announce the start of the home school physical education program. The Home school session will be open to home school children between the ages of 6-12 and is a good way to get exercise as well as learn teamwork and fundamentals in a variety of different sports. Please register at least one week in advance of the class. For more information or to register, please call us at 704-766-2220. $

Metro Opry Jam Cultural Center 109 Old Statesville Road Huntersville 7-9pm Featuring country music with Matt Cook & T. J. Too & Special guests FREE

S AT U R D AY 1 5 Live band- Swizzlelink lights up the night at Quaker Steak and Lube on 7731 Gateway Lane NW off Speedway Boulevard in the Concord Mills area. Phone: 704-979-LUBE Budweiser World Cup Ju-Jitsu Competition Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 10am-8pm Ju-Jitsu and Submission Grappling competition. $ A Symphony of Seasons at Keppel Auditorium, Catawba College 7:30 pm Locklair, Symphony of Seasons Haydn, Introduction to Winter from the Seasons

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2005

Vivaldi, Spring, from The Four Seasons Glazunov, The Seasons: Autumn Dan Skidmore, Violin and Teresa Radomski, Soprano. Contact Linda Jones [email protected] or 704.637.4314 for info.

S U N D AY 1 6 Budweiser World Cup Ju-Jitsu Competition Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 10am-8pm Ju-Jitsu and Submission Grappling competition. $ Celebrating Rowan County’s Young Artists High School Exhibition Young People’s Gallery Contact Candace Boyd at [email protected] or www.waterworks.org 704.638.1882

M O N D AY 1 7 Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Breakfast at Salisbury Civic Center, 315 S Boundary Street 6-8 am $5.00 each Contact Paul Moore at [email protected] or www.salisburync.gov 704.638.5275

W E D N E S D AY 1 9 Concord Opry Jam Cabarrus Senior Center Live Country Music 6:30-9pm Cabarrus Senior Center 331 Corban Ave, SE info 704.920.3484 FREE

www.theCCconnection.com

SATURDAY 22

4th Annual Carolina Classics Gymnastics Meet Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 1pm-10pm Competition levels from Prep-Op thru Elite, age range is from 6 to 16 representing teams from the East and Southeastern U. S. For more info www.weddingtonactivitycenter.com $

Professional Renovations Home remodeling FREE ESTIMATES

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ABA Basketball Carolina Thunder vs Philadelphia Cabarrus Arena tip off 7pm $

S U N D AY 2 3

4th Annual Carolina Classics Gymnastics Meet Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 1pm10pm Competition levels from Prep-Op thru Elite, age range is from 6 to 16 representing teams from the East and Southeastern U. S. For more info www.weddingtonactivitycenter.com $ The Wedding Affair Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 11am-4pm Free samples, live music, door prizes with something for everyone. For more information 704.782.8915 $

T H U R S D AY 2 0

W E D N E S D AY 2 6

Country Music Jam Kannapolis Moose Lodge 6:30-9:30pm 990 Beatties Ford Rd Kannapolis FREE

Concord Opry Jam Cabarrus Senior Center Live Country Music 6:30-9pm Cabarrus Senior Center 331 Corban Ave, SE info 704.920.3484 FREE Live bands-Dugi light up the night at Quaker Steak and Lube on 7731 Gateway Lane NW off Speedway Boulevard in the Concord Mills area. Phone: 704-979-LUBE

T H U R S D AY 2 7 The ODD Couple The classic play that launched the hit TV show. Oscar, a divorced bachelor slob, takes in newly separated Felix, the perpetual neat freak, to live with him. Contact Chris Blumenthal [email protected] or www.piedmontplayers.com Call 704.633.5471

F R I D AY 2 1

4th Annual Carolina Classics Gymnastics Meet Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 1pm10pm Competition levels from Prep-Op thru Elite, age range is from 6 to 16 representing teams from the East and Southeastern U. S. For more info www.weddingtonactivitycenter.com $ ABA Basketball Carolina Thunder vs Philadelphia Cabarrus Arena tip off 7pm $ Metro Opry Jam Cultural Center 109 Old Statesville Road Huntersville 7-9pm Featuring country music with Matt Cook & T. J. Too & Special guests FREE

ABA Basketball Carolina Thunder vs Jacksonville Cabarrus Arena tip off 7pm $ Young Olympians Cheerleading starts at Huntersville Elementary School Gym Cheer America is fun and exciting cheerleading program for children. This class promotes coordination, confidence and physical fitness. This program will teach the basic requirements for middle and high school tryouts. Registration: Thursday, January 20, 2005 Fee: $5/Registration $5/per class Contact Huntersville Parks and Recreation Department @704-766-2220 for more information.

Fax 704.947.8476

F R I D AY 2 8 ABA Basketball Carolina Thunder vs Jacksonville Cabarrus Arena tip off 7pm Metro Opry Jam Cultural Center 109 Old Statesville Road Huntersville 7-9pm Featuring country music with Matt Cook & T. J. Too & Special guests FREE The ODD Couple The classic play that launched the hit TV show. Oscar, a divorced bachelor slob, takes in newly separated Felix, the perpetual neat freak, to live with him. Contact Chris Blumenthal [email protected] or www.piedmontplayers.com Call 704.633.5471

S AT U R D AY 2 9 ABA Basketball Carolina Thunder vs Jacksonville Cabarrus Arena tip off 7pm $ The ODD Couple The classic play that launched the hit TV show. Oscar, a divorced bachelor slob, takes in newly separated Felix, the perpetual neat freak, to live with him. Contact Chris Blumenthal [email protected] or www.piedmontplayers.com Call 704.633.5471

Kritter Kare by Kara Pet Sitting Service Taking a trip without your pets? Don’t want to put them in a kennel? Overwhelmed at work & need to stay late? In-Home Care for Your Pet - Professional care in your home up to three visits daily - Plant care - inside and out - Theft dterrence while you are away - Transportation to and from the veterinarian - Midday walks for those individuals with simply not enough time in the day - Obedience training - Overnight stay available in your home For More Information Call:

Kara Lashley (704) 453-6308 Insured * Bonded Member of

S U N D AY 3 0

Pet Sitters International

The ODD Couple The classic play that launched the hit TV show. Oscar, a divorced bachelor slob, takes in newly separated Felix, the perpetual neat freak, to live with him. Contact Chris Blumenthal [email protected] or www.piedmontplayers.com Call 704.633.5471

Your Space Our Place

4th Annual Wedding Extravaganza Brides & Grooms - Get a head start on all of your wedding plans and ideas in one day. Contact Paul Moore [email protected] 704.638.5275

FREE

M O N D AY 3 1 Winter’s Flight 8 K To start at Catawba College at 2 pm. For details email [email protected], www.salisburyrunners.com 704.636.0111 Young Olympians Self Defense classes start This fun course for children is designed for self-defense purposes emphasizing child safety awareness. We do not teach ‘Bullying Tactics.” Self-discipline rather than aggressiveness is promoted. Registration: Monday, January 24, 2005. Huntersville Elementary

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NEW YEAR, NEW LOOK, NEW YOU!

at SALON PHD The New Year is upon us and everyone is looking for something new. A new diet to go on or a new exercise routine to jump into. But both of those things take time and effort to see any results. Well if you are like me I am as a results oriented person as you’ll meet, and I want to see the results yesterday. I have found a way to do that, and it is one of the best presents that I have ever had. A

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new haircut! But isn’t that what all the other haircuts, styles, color or perms are supposed to do? Instead they end up blah two days afterwards. It is so hard to get the same look the hair dresser achieved. Well I found that there is a new method of hairstyling out there that can give you so many options. It is called the Helix method of hairstyling. I had personally never heard of this and being a little skeptical about it, I jumped right in head first. I had my hair done at Salon PHD in Kannapolis by Mike Gentle. Mike has been cutting hair for over 25 years and has had his PHD in hairstyling for 2 years. He was the first male in the state of NC to have their PHD in hair care. Mike is on a mission to change the beauty business and make it more hair stylist and customer friendly, through his experience and ambition as a stylist. The Helix method is very unique in the way it is done. Mike was one of the first to step outside of the box of traditional styling and cutting and perfect this new method. I have natural curly hair that does what it wants to do. Well Mike decided to use the method on the top section of my hair to add more body to it. This was done using no brushes, chemicals or hot rollers, or curling irons. The creation of the hair is actually cut into the hair using the C shaping method. At first the twisting of my hair and cutting was scary but it wasn’t cutting, it was molding and shaping of the hair. The easiest way to

describe it is similar to the way a lumber jack cuts a small part of the tree away to get it to fall into the desired direction. That is the basic part of the hair designers’ actions of shaping with the Helix method. The hair designer directs the hair to go into the optimum position and then simply removes the excess hair. This can do a number of things. It is not meant to replace a perm but can be an alternative to one. It will add volume to the hair for men and women alike. Mike can actually double the volume of the hair. Most women that have the Helix hair cut have to have a few things accomplished first to get the end results that they want. First you need a healthy head of hair to begin with, if you do not have healthy hair Mike will teach you what to do and how to get it. Then he tries to create the perfect oval for you. He will start with a sketch first to give you a good idea of what your hair will look like after the Helix method. Everyone will experience a different result depending on the style and the condition of the hair. The cutting process will add a spiral texture to the hair, and this is achieved by using as many as 6 different shears because they all do a variety of different things. The Helix method of hairstyling can only be done by someone that is trained to use the special shears that it takes to achieve the results that you get with the Helix method. Before you have this done make sure to ask for credentials and also make sure that the correct products are being used. This is a very important step in getting the correct cut/style and avoids having to wear a hat for weeks when the wrong shear was used and lopped off a huge chunk of hair from the middle of your head. Dealing with the Helix experience and Mike was a definite good experience for me but it was also a step outside the box as far as my hair care was concerned. So if you want those immediate results for your hair call Mike today at Salon PHD 704.938.7420 or for more info about the Helix method visit his website at www.mikegentle.com. If you are a hairstylist and who isn’t afraid to step outside the box, wants to help people improve their image and hair and wants to learn more about this new method give Mike a call today.

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2005

www.theCCconnection.com

COMPUTER HELP From Your Computer MOM

Happy New Year to all of you computer users! This is a sincere greeting, unlike a recent email making the rounds, sent out under the guise of a friendly holiday greeting (sometimes in another language), which turned out to be a virus (W32.Erkez.D@mm, also known as W32/Zafi.D@mm). I hope you didn’t receive that holiday “non-greeting!” Make it your New Year’s resolution to always verify before opening an email attachment, and to keep your antivirus program up to date. With that warning, let’s move on to some questions from our mailbag. Dear Computer MOM: I got a great new computer for Christmas, and just love it. Now I want to get rid of my old one, but I don’t know what I should do with it. Can I just throw it in the trash? LR Hello LR: Enjoy that new computer! No, you really cannot just toss your old computer in the trash, as satisfying as that might be! Both computers and monitors contain a number of dangerous chemicals, which can cause damage as they seep out into the ground and water supplies if they are disposed of in a landfill. You have a couple of other options to get rid of it. First, if your old computer still works well and is not too old, there may be a charitable organization or school that could use it. Area newspapers, as well as charitable organization websites, often include holiday “wish lists” this time of year, and you might find someone who could use your old computer. But keep in mind, that although they might really need a computer, most such organizations do not have staff that can fix and maintain older or problematic computers. As the cost of technology has come down (now didn’t that new computer cost way less than your old one, while providing you more power and features?), if a computer is too old (and, I’m not trying to be harsh, but in computer terms, 4-5 years old is likely “too old”), it could actually cost the organization less to buy a brand new computer than to refurbish and fix up your older one. While recycling your used computer to a charitable organization might provide almost as much personal satisfaction as taking a hammer to it, you might find your old computer won’t be wanted by anyone else. In this case you need to carefully dispose of it. Mecklenburg County residents should be pleased to learn that they can now take old computers and monitors to one of the coun-

ty’s full-service recycling centers. Other counties in our area usually have one or two “electronics disposal days” each year, on which county residents can drop off their old computer equipment at a designated location and know it will be safely disposed of. As another option, some computer manufacturers will take your old computer and safely dispose of it, usually as part of a sale transaction or for a small fee. The charge for this service varies, and although they generally provide a shipping box, you often have to bear the cost of shipping the computer to them. Check the website of the company you bought your new computer from to see if this is an option. There are also salvage companies who take used computers, retrieve the parts they can reuse and properly dispose of the rest. They might even pay you a small fee for it, although they may only be willing to accept a large number of computers, such as when a business replaces all their laptops or desktops. So please, don’t just throw your old computer away, use one of these options to properly dispose of it. Dear Computer MOM: I am getting a new computer and need to move all my stuff from my old computer to the new one. Is there an easy way to do that? CC Hi CC: There are a couple of ways to do this. If you do not have a lot of data to move – perhaps your email address book, Internet favorites and some documents, the easiest way is often to copy these files to a floppy disk or a flash disk (one of those key-chainsized data storage devices) or burn them to a CD, and then just transfer them to the new computer.

PRO ANGLER Gus Gastafson If you have too much data to fit on one of these disks, you can either set up a simple network, attaching the two computers with a cable that allows data files to be transferred from one computer to the other, or remove the hard drive from the old computer and install it in your new one, either temporarily (just to move the data between hard drives) or permanently, using the old hard drive as a second hard drive in the new computer. I’ve even helped people back up data from their old computer to an online data backup service, and then download the data to their new computer through the backup restore option. Please note that most software cannot simply be transferred, it is usually best (and often required) that you install the software on the new computer from their original disks. When software is installed, it often makes changes to your system registry, adds icons, etc. If you just copy over the files, you may miss items that are crucial for the software to function properly. Also, note that some software can only be installed on one computer, so always check the user agreements before you attempt to install on another computer, even if it is your own, to ensure you are not violating the terms of use. Dear Computer MOM: I’m giving my old computer to my aunt and uncle, who plan to use it mainly for emailing. I have a lot of files on the computer, including my online banking information and I want to delete it before I give them the computer. But I don’t want to remove the programs, because they will need to use those. Help! OU

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Hello OU: You’ve asked a very good question, something everyone should think about before giving away a computer. There is usually a great deal of personal information on your computer. In addition to banking information, your computer may have stored passwords and user ids, a history of websites you visited, email addresses of your friends and business associates – lots of things you probably don’t want others to have access to. While you can simply delete each file or folder, clear your internet history and temp files, and then empty your recycle bin, this is not a very secure option. If your aunt and uncle’s son-in-law, the computer geek, visits and uses their computer, it might not be too difficult for him to get to those files you thought you had deleted. Even reformatting the hard drive doesn’t erase the data from your computer – it basically marks the area as available to be used, so the next time you save something, it would replace what is currently located there. The average user won’t be able to access your information, but a pro could. You can buy utility software (or hire someone to do this) to write characters to every segment of your hard disk, over and over again, until the data you originally had there is eradicated. If you are really concerned about your data, make sure the software used to do this meets DOD standards. Of course, you will have to reinstall the operating system (as well as any programs you want to give your aunt and uncle) because everything is deleted in this process. Or you might just want to remove your hard drive and replace it with a new one, and just hand on to the old one (with all your secrets). Again, you’ll have to install an operating system and any software on the new clean hard drive.

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2005

GOOD LUCK IN THE SOUTH IN 2005 The celebration of the New Year is the oldest of all holidays. It was first a ring is good luck, because it symbolizes "coming full circle," completing a year's cycle. For that observed in ancient Babylon about 4,000 years ago. Around 2000 BC, the reason, the Dutch believe that eating donuts on New Year's Day will bring good fortune. Babylonian New Year began with the first New Moon after the first day of spring. The Cabbage is a good luck vegetable that is eaten by many on New Year's Day. Cabbage leaves celebration lasted for 11 days. are considered a sign of prosperity, representing paper currency. In some regions, rice is also The Romans continued to observe the New Year in late March, but various emperors contina lucky food. ually altered the calendar so that it soon became out of sync with the sun. In order to set the calWe, here in the South, celebrate the New Year by eating black-eyed peas, usually accompaendar right, the Roman senate, in 153 BC, nied by greens and either hog jowls or ham. declared January 1 to be the beginning of the The reason we eat black eyes and collard New Year. But calendar tampering continued greens is to ensure good luck and fortune for until Julius Caesar, in 46 BC, established the the year. The black eyes are said to represent Julian calendar. It again established January 1 coins and the collard greens folding money. (Yield 8-10 servings) as the New Year. But in order to synchronize The hog, and thus its meat, is considered lucky the calendar with the sun, Caesar had to let the because it, too, symbolizes prosperity. 1 tablespoon olive oil previous year drag on for 445 days. To cover most of our bases, we think Hoppin • Heat oil in a large soup pot 1 large ham hock January 1 has been celebrated as a holiday John is a perfect New Year’s choice. Serve it 1 cup onion, chopped • Add the ham hock and sear on all sides for four minutes by Western nations for only about the past with greens and you’re sure to have a prosper1/2 cup celery, chopped • Add the onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic 400 years. ous year. If you didn’t have this healthy, deli1/2 cup green pepper, chopped • Cook for four more minutes Traditionally, folks thought that luck cious recipe on New Years day this year, please 1 tablespoon chopped garlic • Add the black-eyed peas, stock, bay leaves, thyme, and seasonings throughout the coming year could be affected save this article for 2006. It just might make all 1 pound black-eyed peas, soaked • Bring to a boil by what they did or ate on the first day of the the difference! In the meantime, it makes a overnight and rinsed • Reduce the heat and simmer for 40 minutes, year. For that reason, it has become common great Sunday dinner. 1 quart chicken stock to celebrate the first few minutes of a brand or until the peas are creamy and tender Bay leaf new year in the company of family and friends. • Stir occasionally Be sure to listen to chef Jeff on 105.7 FM, 1 teaspoon dry thyme leaves It was once believed that the first visitor on • If the liquid evaporates, add more water or stock. WFMX on Thursdays at 4:20pm. The show Salt, black pepper, and cayenne New Year's Day would bring either good luck is called ‘Cooking With Edd. Whoever • Adjust seasonings, and garnish with green onions. 3 tbs finely chopped green onion or bad luck the rest of the year. guesses the recipe that Jeff has brought for • Serve over rice. 3 cups steamed white rice the DJ (Edd) to taste and will give hints So, what foods are considered lucky? Many about, wins five days dinner for two. cultures believe that anything in the shape of

Hoppin John with Hog Jowl

EXPIRES 12/31/04

The #1 source for connecting and promoting women and their businesses. Thursday, January 6

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Januar y

2005

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FAT EYE FOR THE SKINNY GUY Straighten Up and Fly Right! The holiday season took its toll this past month on the skinny guy trapped in a fat guy’s body looking out with his eye on the world. As I noted in last month’s column I have read that a lot of people gain an average of 10 pounds between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I said I was going to at least maintain if not better. Well I fell short of the goal. With all the office baskets of cookies, candy, chips, crackers, cakes, holiday lunches and the like I regained almost five pounds. Good thing I had a goal at least, who knows how many pounds would have been packed on had I not had some conscious thought going on. Another factor was the sore throat and the out of town guest. Does this sound like valid reasons or just excuses? Keep your answers to yourself but remember them the next time you give “reasons” for no taking care of yourself. The biggest factor to the pound packing addition was last month I exercised 85% of the time and this month only 50%. I am glad I went at least half the time though. My performance during my workouts is good and still improving overall. Oh! I forgot to mention that almost half a pound of the five I gained was lean muscle. Gotta count the good weight in with the bad. Before I continue… I am not a doctor or personal trainer and you should consult a doctor or other qualified person with any questions or before beginning an exercise program or special diet program. Ok now that the legal disclaimer is out of the way let’s go to what I have found that I plan to put into place and hope will help me and maybe some of you readers too. First and foremost like my mom used to say when I was growing up “Straighten up and fly right”. I had no idea what she was talking about at the time but I knew it meant I needed to get into my best behavior mode or else… Believe me you didn’t want to see the “or else” side of this otherwise sweet and loving five foot two inch woman. So in this case I need an “or else” incentive to straighten up and fly right. What works for me may be different for you but search and you can find it. No I am not telling my “or else”. It could cause all sorts of havoc in the wrong hands.

1) Create Accountability and Support Group… My sweet tooth and love of fried foods are my two greatest weaknesses. So to help overcome these two foes I am seeking the aid and support of my family, friends, readers, associates and anyone who knows me to help. These wonderful people will challenge me and cheer me on. 2) Implement a Rewards system… Since I know giving up sweets and fried foods completely is an unrealistic goal I am going treat myself once a week to each as long as I exercise at least five times that week. 3) Get Plenty of Rest… Ok here is a third weakness; I never seem to get enough sleep. In everything I have read or seen they all say to get enough sleep, about eight hours. This will help your body. The negative impact lack of proper rest has on the body is well documented and very eye opening (pun intendedJ).Take it for fact, it will help. 4) List Positive Points and Post… I will make a list of the many ways cutting back (Notice I did NOT say out) sweets and fried foods and increasing regular exercise will impact my life and put it where it will be seen throughout the day. I was very pleased that even though the five pounds this month crept back on, someone that had not seen me in a couple months came by and noticed I had lost weight especially in my stomach. Those were just the positive words I needed to hear. Write us and let us know what works for you. We would love to share your tips with others. No reason for us to reinvent the wheel. That is one of the reasons we are here is to help each other. If you have a health or exercise tip that you think can help someone send it to us at: FAT EYE FOR THE SKINNY GUY C/O The Connection 500 Church St., Concord, NC 28025 or email to: [email protected] Have a safe Happy New Year!

by Jerry Balcerak

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If you would like to have your church or worship service included in the Worship Directory, please email [email protected] or call 704.606.8648 for more information.

ALL DENOMINATIONS & CITIES WELCOME! EAST CABARRUS CHURCH Meeting at The Cabarrus Arena & Events Center (Intersection of Hwy. 49 & Old Airport Rd.) Pastor Craig Scott 704-788-1116 Worship Sunday 10 am Small group Bible Studies in homes (call for info.) www.eastcabarruschurch.com 9:30am Sunday worship (Member of the PCA) NORTH KANNAPOLIS UNITED METHODIST 1307 N Main St Kannapolis, NC 28081 704.932.5358 Sunday School 10:00 am Worship Service 11:00 am www.NKUMC.com UNIVERSITY CITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 3835 West WT Harris Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28269 704-596-4092 www.ucumc.org Sun Worship 8:30am(traditional) 9:45 (blended) 11:00 (contemporary) Sunday School 8:30am, 9:45am, 11:00am

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH KANNAPOLIS "Building a Community of Disciples for Christ" 101 N. Main Street (across from the Gem Theatre) 704-938-4697 www.firstbaptistkannapolis.com Sunday School 9:45am Worship 10:55am ARK Preschool Ministry (ages 1-4) GRACE CHURCH “Passionately Proclaiming the Gospel of Grace!” Stallings Rd at Rocky River Rd. Harrisburg, NC 28075 Pastor/Teacher – Doug Agnew Stacey Cox – Assistant Pastor Youth & Young Adults 704-455-9312 www.graceharrisburg.org SUNDAY-Sunday School 9:45 Worship 11 am & 6 pm WEDS – Small Group 7 pm Youth, Childrens Groups 7 pm Hear 9:00 am WRKB/WRNA 1460/1140 AM 9:45 am WHVN – 1240 AM LIGHTHOUSE PENTECOSTAL CHURCH 106 Homestead AvenueKannapolis, NC Sunday School 10am - Sunday Worship 11am Sunday Evening 6pm -Wed Evening 7pm Everyone Welcome ! ! !

NORTH KANNAPOLIS UNITED METHODIST 1307 N Main St Kannapolis, NC 28081 704.932.5358 Sunday School 10:00 am Worship Service 11:00 am www.NKUMC.com HOSANNA! Lutheran Community Church Meeting at Cox Mill Elem. School, on Cox Mill Road Rd. off Poplar Tent. Dr. Gil Gilbert, Pastor 704-875-3300 Sunday Worship @10 AM Learning Hour @ 9 AM Small Groups, Fellowship Groups, Bible Study Groups, Men's Ministry, Women's THE REFUGE Currently meeting at Cannon School (Poplar Tent Road in Concord, Exit 52 off I-85) Sundays, 10:00 am Nursery and Children's Ministries available each week. 704.788.2400 www.TheRefugeOnline.net Lead Pastors Jay and Melanie Stewart

Saint James Episcopal Church 851 Shinnville Road Mooresville, 28115 parish office: 704-664-7115 www.geocities.com/stjamesmvl Rev. Rachel Haynes Holy Communion each Sunday at 10 am and on 2nd & 4th Tuesdays at 10:30 am. Christian education for all ages every 2nd and 4th Sunday after worship. PROVIDENCE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 551-C Pitts School Road Concord NC 28027 704.788.8899 www.ppcnet.net 9:30am Sunday worship (Member of the PCA) CHRIST UNITY CHURCH 7300 Mallard Creek Rd. (University Area) Charlotte, NC 28269 Reverend: Julie McKay Wilkinson 704-599-1180 Sunday Celebration : 10:30-11:45 Childcare & Sunday School Several weekly classes available. (Call for info)

2005

JACK LALANNE FITNESS KING By David Brandon

You’ve got to admire Jack LaLanne. The original guru of fitness has been touting his brand of physical fitness for more than half a century, and at age 90 it seems that it’s worked out pretty well for him. An intense regimen of a strict diet (don’t eat anything artificial) and exercise (he works out 2 hours a day) has helped the man remain in great physical condition. Yet you know what? Mr. LaLanne is old. His body, no matter how well he has taken care of it, has just a few more years of functionality. I don’t know what his spiritual condition is, but wouldn’t it be sad for a man to spend an entire lifetime taking immaculate care of his mortal body—a shell that has no ultimate destination but death—without doing what is necessary to care for his immortal being? All the carrot juice and sit-ups in the world will do none of us any good when our physical life ends. At that point, the only thing that matters is our spirit and how we have prepared it for eternity. Jack LaLanne is absolutely correct in asserting that we should take care of our bodies. He is right in saying we should eat right, exercise, and avoid practices that damage our bodies. But his emphasis on taking care of the body is only a temporary answer to a question with forever implications: Where will my spirit—the real me—spend eternity? Consider that question. It needs to be answered before that unknown day when your heart beats for the last time. Only in this life can we prepare for the next, and that happens when we trust Jesus as our Savior. This body is temporary, and caring for it—while the right thing to do—cannot prepare us to stand before God. While we’re getting in shape physically, let’s make sure we spend time getting in shape spiritually. That’s the ultimate fitness test. The real question - is your soul in shape for the long haul?

Januar y

2005

www.theCCconnection.com

FULL SERVICE FLORIST 704.786.9438

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609 Church Street North, Concord www.adaisypatch.com

IRRESISTIBLE P O R T R A

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“Flowers for Every Occasion”

Free Delivery to Hospital & Funeral Homes Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5pm, Sat 9am-1pm

Being the Church, Not Just Doing Church January 9 & 23

Cell Groups Meeting Meet Every Sunday at 10am · Nursery · Children · Youth · Activities Available

1030-B Central Drive (Formally Nikita’s Gym) Concord, NC

704-788-2400 Lead Pastors Jay & Melanie Stewart

www.TheRefugeOnline.net

Follow Me.

-GOD

• Fruit & Gourmet Baskets • European Design Baskets • Silk & Fresh Cut • Balloons • Cards • Sympathy Designs • Delivery Available • Stuffed Animals • Church Arrangements • Walk-Ins Welcome

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Januar y

2005

Januar y

2005

www.theCCconnection.com

CLASSIFIEDS

WANTED

REAL ESTATE

FOR SALE

WANTED TO BUY! Older US & Canadian Coins/Currency Turn old cash into new. 704.281.7407

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE Space Available Downtown Concord 704-784-2802

Moving Sale: Mooresville Dewalt Power Tools $150.00 Office Furniture (3 desks) & Supplies Black Iron Canapy BedroomSet $500.00 Home Decore Contact Theresa: 704-663-1985

JEWELRY WANTED: We Buy Estate Jewelry & Gold PERRY'S GOLD MINE: 704-375-GOLD (4653) Books Sell, Buy & Trade THE BOOK CONNECTION: 500 Church St Concord, NC 704-606-8648

NETWORKING THE 3 M CLUB Meets every Tuesday In Concord No Membership Dues FOR MORE INFO: Denise: 704-791-3779 Marty: 704-786-4422

FOR SALE 1163 Rachel Ln., Salisbury, NC New Home with 2,052 heated SF, 4 BR, 2 full baths, includes garden tub, walk in closets, brick underpinning, fireplace, city water &sewer, flexible financing terms available with up to 100% for qualified borrowers, PRICED BELOW TAX VALUE Call Randy Watson 704-575-0128 for appointment www.mdletico.faithweb.com I BUY HOUSES CASH! QUICK CLOSE CALL DIANE (704-467-3941) FOR SALE BY OWNER Lovely 3BR, 2Bath 838 Loch Lomond Circle, Concord Includes Lg Master BR with Garden Tub, Flexible Seller, Flexible Terms, $ 751 PNI, UPTO 100% financing CALL Randy 704-575-0128

PLACE A CLASSIFIED WITH US TODAY! 704.606.8648 Get Results

REAL ESTATE I BUY BROKEN HOMES NO REALTOR NEEDED CLOSE WITHIN 15 DAYS 704-575-0128

FOR SALE FOR SALE HIGH END COSTUME JEWELRY-ALL STYLES CALL 704.791.3779

SERVICES Handyman Plus... No job too small AFFORDABLE -Pressure wash -Grass cut -Roofing-LotsMore! 704-363-9707 Love’s Lawn & Landscaping Seed, Fertilize, Aerate, Lawn Care, Weekly Maintenance Available, and LOTS MORE! 704-506-6022 Drain Cleaning and Plumbing Repair 704-938-2102 WILL DO LAWN & YARD WORK Reasonable Rates 704-455-6389 HELP WANTED Look Great & Feel Great While helping other do the same and make money too! Be your own boss. For more info call 704-575-0128 for appointment

First Premier Mortgage, Inc. Specializing in 100% financing your new home . We Ê offer fixed, ARM, and Interest only loans.

RD O NC O C

$604.01* mo.

For FREE prequalification and approval

Call:

704-795-2120

838 Loch Lommand, 3BR, 2ba, Central H&A, Immaculate condition, Great for the first time home buyer qualifies for 3% Down Payment Assistance and seller to pay 3% in closing costs.

*Payments listed can vary depending on escrow and tax amounts. Beautiful, 3 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath Home, 1800+ Square Feet Double Car Garage with Storage Area +, Large “Family” Kitchen, Garden Tub in Master Neat, Clean, Ready for Immediate Occupancy!! Refrigerator, Stove to convey with property!! Qualifies For VA, FHA, or Conventional Financing

$779.51* mo.

CONCORD

Seller will pay $2000 toward buyers closing When using First Premier Mortgage Home shown by Appointment Only 704-305-0992

This is a great home for the First Time Home Buyer!!! Established, Well Maintained Home, Very Quiet Neighborhood, and Convenient to I-85, Schools and Shopping. This home has: 2 Bedrooms New Central Heat & Air New Chain Link Fence Covered Porch

IS

1 Bath 1,000 HLA Wood Deck Extra Large Lot Maintenance Free Siding and Windows Double Car Carport

Ready to move in now, bring me an offer. Seller is willing to assist with closing costs. Please call 704-795-2120 for prequalification and approval. Home shown by appointment only, must have bank pre-approval letter. Qualifies for FHA, VA, and Conventional Financing. Seller willing to assist buyer with Closing Costs and Down Payment Assistance. Financing provided by First Premier Mortgage, Inc.

N KA

$392.75*

“Cute & Cozy”

mo.

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