Notable Locals
Get to Know Your Neighbors
Photos by Raymond J Photography
Faces introduces you to people who make Ballantyne lively and interesting. In this edition, meet David R. Lane, Tanisha Chea and Russ Watkins. Responses have been edited for clarity and brevity.
David R. Lane, M.D.
Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri
Job: Physician, Owner, Medical Director, Dermatologic Surgery of the Carolinas, LLC
Typical day
I perform Mohs surgeries in the morning. It’s a specialized technique where I remove skin cancers, usually on the head and neck. I also perform the reconstruction to make sure the area heals in the best way possible. My afternoons are filled with excisions of skin cancer, follow-ups, post-operative appointments and cosmetic treatments. My workday ends at 5 p.m., and I like to work out at Orangetheory Ballantyne, then go home and spend the evening with my wife and two daughters (ages 16 and 12).
Ballantyne resident?
I have lived in the SouthPark area since 2015 and in Charlotte since 2006.
Favorite beverage
During the day, a flat white (espresso drink). During the evening, an old fashioned.
Tanisha Chea
Hometown: Waterford, Connecticut
Job: President, Sir Grout Franchising
Typical day
I start my day going to the gym at 6 a.m. I work from home, so if I’m not traveling to meet with the board of directors or a franchisee, I’m on a virtual meeting. Sometimes I have events and appearances for Mrs. North Carolina. (Chea was crowned Mrs. North Carolina America earlier this year.) My twins are only 4, but they already have after-school activities, so that takes up my early evening before making dinner.
Ballantyne resident?
I live off Providence Road in Matthews, but we own a business in the Ballantyne area called IDEA Lab Kids.
Favorite beverages
Celsius Heat (pre-workout energy drink) and coffee.
Russ Watkins
Hometown: Farmingdale, New York
Job: Associate Vice President, Real Estate and Facilities, Sompo International
Typical day
As I support six locations coast to coast, my day has a lot of variety and challenges. I have a great team helping accomplish our projects and goals.
Ballantyne resident?
I have been a Fort Mill resident since 1999.
Favorite drink
Strong Welsh tea.