Charlotte Newcomer Guide 2009 by Atlantic Publication Group LLC

charlotte 2009

NEWCOMER RESOURCE / CHAMBER MEMBER DIRECTORY

AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE

WELCOME TO CHARLOTTE Residential, Corporate & Commercial Relocation Services 800.373.0301 | 704.392.7057

FINDING YOUR DREAM HOME

LEARNING AT ITS FINEST

THE QUEEN SHOPS

Commitments Made. Commitments Kept.

WWW.GRAEBEL.COM

LOCAL | NATIONWIDE | WORLDWIDE Proudly serving the Charlotte community since 1983

HAVING ALL YOU AND YOUR FAMILY DESIRE ISN’T ASKING TOO MUCH.

We welcome you to choose exactly the lifestyle you’ve longed for, complete with all the comforts that come with a Crescent community. Homes from the $500s to over $3 million. Homesites fom the $60s to over $1 million. For information about any of our luxurious communities, please visit MyCrescentHome.com.

Where Southern hospitality meets golf-centric living.

A waterside haven inspired by the Sanctuary.

Simple pleasures come to life with active family living.

Life on The Farms is picnic perfect.

Where nature is nurtured.

Nantucket-style living on Lake Norman.

Some of the subdivisions at Lake James, Lake Keowee, Lake Wylie, and Lake Norman are registered with the ofﬁce of the Interstate Land Sales Registration of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Obtain the property report required by federal law and read it before signing anything. No federal agency has judged the merits or value, if any, of this property. This is not an offer or solicitation to residents in GA, NJ, NY, CT, PA, VA, or any other state where such an offer or solicitation is prohibited by applicable law. Crescent Communities is a trademark of Crescent Resources, LLC. Marketed exclusively by Crescent Communities Realty, LLC.

We Deliver Relocation Smiles! Around the globe, Graebel customers experience relocation services beyond compare. Our exclusive 24/7 toll-free WorldWatch® customer service and on-the-ground professionals are always ready to go the extra mile. From stateof-the-art, secure storage, to background-checked employees who perform professional moving services, Graebel brings you peace of mind. YOU CAN COUNT ON GRAEBEL:

» » » » »

Mention NEWCOMERS MAGAZINE for preferred pricing!

Complete corporate and individual relocation services Eco-friendly and cost-efﬁcient moving and storage standards J.D. Power & Associates rates among best U.S. movers, 2008 Charlotte’s ﬁnest household goods warehouse Exclusive mover for United Nations

For more information, or to schedule your FREE, no obligation in-home estimate, call Dan Colleran

704.392.7057 | 800.373.0301 dcolleran@graebel.com | www.graebel.com

Commitments Made. Commitments Kept.® Every Day. Everywhere.

Get in the conversation Get involved with community news, and information about schools, economic opportunities and fun things to do. Subscribe now

Every day $3.25/week. 800.532.5350 and charlotteobserver.com

www.carolinasmedicalcenter.org

Out of 5,453 U.S. hospitals, only 170 were named “Best in America.” And we’re the only one in the region to make the list.

hen you’re shopping for a new home, chances are you’ll know “the one” the

minute you see it. It’ll be the one that instantly captures your heart as well as your eye. However, at Niblock Homes we know there’s a practical side to homebuying as well. That’s the side that makes sure the home has ample closet space, room for the kids to grow and all of your belongings. The trick is matching the practical with the sentimental. And the result is your Ideal Home. With 15 communities in and around Charlotte priced from the $250’s to the $700’s, there’s a Niblock Home that’s perfect for you. To find your Ideal Home, visit us online at www.niblockhomes.com, or call 1-800-230-3940 for more information.

THE CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE Vol. XII - 2009

P.O. Box 32785 • Charlotte, NC 28232

Welcome!

(704) 378-1300 www.charlottechamber.com

On behalf of the Charlotte Chamber and its members, I am delighted you are considering a relocation to the Queen City.

Chairman - Tim Belk, Belk, Inc. President - Bob Morgan COO - Blair Stanford CFO - Mike Manning VP, Research - Tony Crumbley Editor - Melisa LaVergne Director, Info! Charlotte - Lindsay Alexander Interim Director of Info! Charlotte and advertising - Laura Meyer

Please look through the Newcomer Resource and visit our city. I’m sure you will find Charlotte a wonderful place. Charlotte is a growing city with a population of 696,000. It is seen nationally as one of the best cities in the country. Charlotte has received first-place honors in the America’s Most Livable Communities awards presented by Partners for Livable Communities. This program honored Charlotte for its exemplary quality of life. That quality can be seen in our job market, which was ranked fourth by Business 2.0 magazine for America's Best Jobs in the Hottest Markets.. Charlotte is the second-largest banking center in the country and has been ranked by

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Entrepreneur magazine as one of the best cities in the nation to start and grow a

Megan Dillard, Brandeis Price,

business. And it can be seen in our leisure activities. U.S. News & World Report

Josh Schroder, Anja Workman

ranked our city third in Best Retirement Place for Golfers. You’ll soon see that Charlotte has spirit. A spirit that makes the nationally

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHY Patrick Schneider Photography Charlotte Center City Partners Visit Charlotte

recognized achievements possible. A spirit that makes Charlotte an exciting and lively place to live. This spirit is most evident in our greatest asset — our friendly people. The U.S. Census indicates Charlotte ranks third nationally in in-migration of young, educated people. We welcome newcomers to the Queen City and look forward to having you become an active part of our community.

PRODUCTION & DESIGN BY:

Sincerely,

843-747-0025 www.atlanticpublicationgrp.com

Bob Morgan, President Charlotte Chamber PUBLISHED BY:

© Copyright 2009 by Chamber Services, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of the publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the Charlotte Chamber. The information in this publication is carefully gathered and compiled in such a way as to ensure maximum accuracy. The Charlotte Chamber and Chamber Services cannot and do not guarantee either the correctness of all information furnished to them nor the complete absence of errors and omissions. Hence, responsibility for same neither can be, nor is, assumed.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

a better way home.

5 4

Mecklenburg County Ardrey Chase Stone Creek Ranch Weddington Meadows Woodbury

Gaston County Willow Creek

1 2 3

3 6 2

Union County Fieldstone Farm Millbridge

Lancaster County, SC Edenmoor

Quality homes in all the best locations throughout Charlotte. From the $120s to $300s. Whether you’re looking for a starter home, a luxurious move-up home or the pefect place to retire, Centex offers a wide range of townhomes and single-family homes in popular communities throughout the Charlotte area. One is sure to be just right for you. Call 1.866.4.CENTEX or visit a Sales Center today. Centex. It’s a better way to a better home.

Find your new home at

.com/charlotte 1.866.4.CENTEX

Terms, prices, and availability are subject to change or withdrawal without notice or obligation. Additional conditions or restrictions may apply. See a Centex Homes sales representative for details. This material shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required or if void by law. ©2008 Centex Homes. All rights reserved.

contents

FEATURES

Charlotte NC - newcomer resource / chamber member directory

WELCOME TO CHARLOTTE

FINDING YOUR DREAM HOME

LEARNING AT ITS FINEST

THE QUEEN SHOPS

Winter, spring, summer or fall – the Queen City is a lady for all seasons.

Before you shop for your dream home, learn more about the region's distinct communities.

From preschool to postgraduate, education is a priority in Charlotte.

Charlotte and retail therapy go together like Jimmy and Choo.

DEPARTMENTS 7 Letter from Chamber President 21 Info! Charlotte 41 Retirement Living 45 Employment & Economy 51 Health & Wellness 78 Quick Reference Guide

63 Quality of Life: Professional Sports Collegiate Sports Outdoor Recreation & Fitness Arts & Culture Annual Events Day Trips Dining & Nightlife

D YO U K N O Loo W thro k for th ? ugho ese su ut

learn the p nburs ts ub in abou terestin lication t Ch to g fac a rlo ts migh t not tte you know .

80 Index of Advertisers 81 Chamber Member Directory

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

welcome Welcome to Charlotte, or as we sometimes call her, the Queen City. Charlotte is a progressive, growing, developing and redeveloping city, and as such, is always changing. She welcomes you in new ways each and every season, yet is always filled with interesting attractions, interesting people and Southern hospitality.

winter

ÂŠ PATRICK SCHNEIDER PHOTOGRAPHY 2006

The winter air in Charlotte is crisp and inviting. Snow rarely falls in Charlotte, even though many days do fall below freezing. But even in the cold, Charlotteans stay warm with plenty of wintertime activities. Charlotteans, in general, are passionate sports fans, and with numerous professional and collegiate teams in and around the area, screaming one's head off at a basketball, or hockey game is a great way to chase away the winter blues. Ski lodges and other snowy, mountain retreats are just a few hours away for those who enjoy snow and simply must have it in the winter.

spring Spring is breathtaking in Charlotte with a profusion of flowers and flowering trees. Drought conditions over the past year made landscaping more challenging, but Charlotte rose to the challenge with drought-resistant plantings and watering techniques that reduce evaporation and conserve water. Get outside and enjoy everything the spring has to offer: long walks down the county's greenways, home and garden tours, street festivals, Easter egg hunts, outdoor concerts, NASCAR races, gallery crawls and more.

summer

ÂŠ PATRICK SCHNEIDER PHOTOGRAPHY 2006

If you can't beat the heat, why not go out and enjoy it? The man-made lakes along the Catawba River are popular destinations in the summer. Boat and wave-runner rentals are available on both Lake Norman and Lake Wylie. And in addition to whitewater rafting and kayaking at the U.S. National Whitewater Center's man-made courses, the center offers kayak rentals for selfguided tours along the Catawba River. If water sports aren't your thing, perhaps you'll enjoy Summer Pops, fabulous outdoor dining, deathdefying roller coasters at Carowinds, Charlotte Knights or Charlotte Eagles games, shopping or exploring a museum instead.

fall

If you enjoy outdoor festivals, you're going to love autumn in Charlotte. Charlotte SHOUT!, Festival in the Park, the Yiasou Greek Festival, the UNC Charlotte International Festival, the Latin American Festival, the Renaissance Festival, Art & Soul of South End and the Novello Festival of Reading - each of these annual events brings new flavors and experiences. Fortunately, temperatures remain quite warm in Charlotte well into the fall, so you'll be able to enjoy the festivals and long walks necessary to work off the thousands of calories that come with delicious festival food.

Thanks to our temperate climate, most things to see and do in Charlotte can be enjoyed any time of year. Go out and explore. And make wonderful memories for every season.

ÂŠ PATRICK SCHNEIDER PHOTOGRAPHY 2006

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT CHARLOTTE

Ticket Master Hours of Operation Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

PHONE NUMBERS

330 South Tryon Street Charlotte, NC 28202 Located in the Chamber of Commerce building (corner of S. Tryon Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard).

DIRECTIONS From I-77 take the John Belk Freeway/277 Exit to College Street Exit (1E). Pass the Convention Center on your right. At the next stop light take a left onto Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. At the next light, cross over S. Tryon Street and you will see the Chamber of Commerce building on the right hand corner. Info! Charlotte, the Visitor Info Center and Dilworth Coffeehouse are located on the first floor.

For directions to Info! Charlotte – 704.331.2753 For relocation information – 704.378.1362 For visitor information – 704.331.2700

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

CHARLOTTE CHAMBER

W. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BLVD.

WE ARE HERE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

SOUTH TRYON STREET

HOURS OF OPERATION Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WEST THIRD STREET

ADDRESS SOUTH CHURCH STREET

hould we say welcome to Charlotte or welcome home? Whether you’re relocating to Charlotte or simply visiting, Info! Charlotte and the Visitor Info Center extend a warm welcome to you. Comprised of a winding road and storefronts sponsored by an array of Charlotte businesses, Info! Charlotte combined with the Visitor Info Center is Charlotte’s official resource for visitors, newcomers and even Charlotteans who have been around a while. You can find information on neighborhoods, schools, apartments, retirement resources, government services, restaurants, attractions, and the list goes on and on. As visitors walk through Info! Charlotte, they are welcomed by some of Charlotte’s prominent businesses that cater to newcomers. Through a joint partnership with Ticketmaster, Info! Charlotte is home to the only comprehensive Ticket Central. Ticket Central offers the opportunity to view schedules and purchase tickets for a variety of events including Panthers games at Bank of America Stadium, concerts at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre and plays at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center. More things are in-store for you during your visit, so please come take a walk through Info! Charlotte and experience all that Charlotte has to offer.

meet our welcoming committee! PREMIER SPONSOR

hen Julie Wagner moved to Charlotte, she and her husband searched to find a place where they could connect with real community and where their son Zack could grow. They eventually found it at the YMCA. “The Y has just been great for us because there’s something for me and for him. I have met so many moms from the step class, and some of them have kids in basketball, and they all come to the pool in the summertime. It’s a nice community,” Wagner says. Aaron Henderson, a young professional, joined the YMCA when he moved to Charlotte and found that he loved its diversity of services and many locations. “I use the Y for everything – sauna, steam room, basketball. I volunteer coach. I have the metro membership, so I go all over. I live in Matthews and spend time in the Mt. Holly/Huntersville area, so I use many locations. I love the Y,” he says. No matter where you work or live in the greater Charlotte area, you will likely be near a YMCA. The YMCA of Greater Charlotte offers its members 18 locations at which to build a healthy spirit, mind and body. As a YMCA member, you will enjoy: • Access to six outdoor pools and waterparks at no additional charge • Unlimited group exercise classes including Zumba, yoga, Pilates and kickboxing • Year-round indoor pools

YMCA of Greater Charlotte

• State-of-the-art strength and cardio equipment • Special interest groups including running clubs, cycling clubs, young professionals, adventure clubs, active older adults, Bible studies and adult sports • Opportunities for volunteering, networking and leadership development • Member rates on kids programs like summer day camp, sports, dance and afterschool • A range of health services and screenings provided by our on-site Carolinas HealthCare System nurses • Individual fitness assessments with our health and wellness staff • Member rates on personal training and massage therapy

• Member rates at our two YMCA overnight camps: Camp Thunderbird and Camp Harrison at Herring Ridge (www.campthunderbird.org, www.campharrison.org) Most people don’t know ... The YMCA of Greater Charlotte was first organized in 1874 by 23 young men. Today the YMCA is the largest social service not-for-profit organization in the region. The YMCA: • Serves approximately one in six people in its service area, making it the third most penetrating association in the U.S, behind only Houston and Los Angeles • Relies on the involvement of more than 5,000 volunteers who lead the association, as well as serve as coaches, committee members and tutors • Educates 300 rising first and second graders each summer through Starfish Academy, a summer literacy program targeting children who read below grade level • Employs six social workers who serve families in Charlotte’s most challenged neighborhoods • Is the area’s largest provider of youth sports, day camp and adult fitness Visit the YMCA’s Web site at www.ymcacharlotte.org to see locations in the greater Charlotte area and to find out how you can get involved.

PREMIER SPONSOR • Free area tours and neighborhood overviews • Personal relocation specialist to assist throughout the relocation process • Information on and appointments made for school tours and interviews at the schools of choice, both public and private • Free market analysis reports, which provide real estate statistics on specific neighborhoods or communities • Customized selling assistance and home buying assistance (including new construction) • Relocation resource library

elen Adams founded her company more than three decades ago in the growing city of Charlotte. Her goal was to create a company with the highest level of personal service and real estate expertise. Today, Helen Adams Realty is a thriving firm that handles a wide variety of services for individuals, families and corporations. The firm has branch locations near the Center City, South Charlotte and Lake Norman. Its agents cover all of Mecklenburg County and surrounding areas. Why choose Helen Adams Realty? • Experienced real estate professionals • The highest level of personal service • Exceptional reputation in Charlotte Helen Adams Realty’s Commitment to Ethical Standards Each step of the way, from the sale of your existing home to discovering Charlotte, Helen Adams’

Relocation Department will provide you with customized information and assistance. The firm’s market knowledge and personal service ensures a smooth transition for its clients. Some of its relocation services include:

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Visit the firm’s Web site at www.helenadamsrealty.com to search for properties in the entire Charlotte metro area. Search for homes based on your unique preferences, view virtual tours and receive e-mail updates on homes that meet your criteria. For further information, please call 800.851.5253.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

PREMIER SPONSOR lion active users. Bank of America is the No. 1 overall Small Business Administration (SBA) lender in the United States and the No. 1 SBA lender to minority-owned small businesses. The company serves clients in more than 150 countries and has relationships with 99 percent of the U.S. Fortune 500 companies and 83 percent of the Fortune Global 500. Bank of America Corporation stock (NYSE: BAC) is a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

ank of America is one of the world’s largest financial institutions, serving individual consumers, small and middle market businesses, and large corporations with a full range of banking, investing, asset management, and other financial and risk-management products and services. The company provides unmatched convenience in the United States, serving more than 59 million consumer and small business relationships with more than 6,100 retail banking offices, nearly 18,500 ATMs and award-winning online banking with nearly 25 mil-

Experience Charlotte DEPARTMENT STORE

FAITH COMMUNITY

Belk, Inc. - serving customers since 1988. Generations of Southern shoppers have come to rely on their local Belk stores to provide the latest merchandise, friendly service, fair prices and a satisfaction guaranteed policy that has made Belk the department store of choice in its markets. Some said founder William Henry Belk would surely fail when he opened a small bargain store in Monroe, N.C., in 1888 with the radical notion of selling goods for cash only at the lowest possible price. He succeeded, however, and 121 years later, Belk Inc. is the nation's largest privatelyowned department store company, operating more than 300 fashion department stores in 16 contiguous Southern states. Belk stores are now located throughout Mecklenburg County at SouthPark Mall, Carolina Place Mall and Northlake Mall. Another store is scheduled to open at The Bridges at Mint Hill in 2009. Belk stores are leading distributors of many top U.S. designer and national brands of cosmetics, apparel, accessories, shoes and home furnishings, and also offers exclusive lines of private brand merchandise. Belk has a strong tradition of community service and philanthropy through The Belk Foundation and volunteering time, talents and leadership to numerous civic and charitable organizations and community improvement efforts.

University Park Baptist Church is a dynamic ministry located in northwest Charlotte. With more than 8,000 members the church has evolved into a catalyst for spiritual growth and economic empowerment. Under the visionary leadership of Pastor Claude R. Alexander, Jr., University Park Baptist Church has grown dramatically both numerically and in terms of ministries. The Park Ministries, One Church in Three Locations, provides more than 80 ministries and services to its congregants and the Charlotte community. In 2001, the church moved into its current 83,000-square-foot sanctuary and Family Life and Wellness Center that sits on 54 acres in north Charlotte. In August 2004, the church dedicated the Park South location in Pineville, N.C. This sanctuary sits on 46 acres and also has a Family Life and Wellness Center. The Keller Avenue location in west Charlotte is home to the Outreach, Community Economic Development, and Pacesetters (Seniors) ministries. In November 2006, The Park Ministries completed the purchase of the Charlotte Merchandise Mart. The 519,000-square-foot complex will provide much needed room to expand existing ministries as well as to create new ones. Renovations are underway and once completed, “The Park” will be the new home of The Park Ministries. In addition to four live services each week, Pastor Alexander can be seen locally on My TV12 WMYT and nationally on The Word Network. Sermons are also streamed live via the church’s Web site at www.theparkministries.org as well as on streamingfaith.com.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

SENIOR SERVICES

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

CHARLOTTE SCHOOLS

All For Seniors is a comprehensive resource directory of Senior-related services in the Greater Charlotte area. With more than 50 distinctive service categories, it provides information to older adults, caregivers – both personal and professional – and senior industry professionals. These categories include how to access service providers, navigate senior information and connect with those dedicated to serving seniors. All For Seniors is published three times a year and is available through the Charlotte Chamber as well as the resource and referral network of senior-related providers. To learn more about All For Seniors or to request your free copy, contact 704.366.1410 or visit www.allforseniors-charlotte.org.

Recognized as a national leader in workforce development, CPCC is producing leaders each and every day. In 2002, the National Alliance of Business named CPCC the Community College of the Year for its response to the workforce and technology needs of local employers and job seekers. CPCC instructors have that rare combination of academic credentials, real world experience and boundless enthusiasm. So while you’re getting a degree or certificate that will advance your career, you’re also getting it from people who know the business. The college offers hundreds of degree, diploma and certification programs; customized corporate training; market-focused continuing education; and special interest classes to meet the education needs of this community. From degrees in geospatial technology to simulation and game development; from non-destructive examination to motorsports; from arts education to business administration; and from criminal justice to engineering and surgical technology, CPCC is this community’s career college. CPCC serves more than 70,000 people on our six campuses with more than 100 degree, diploma and certificate programs. You can earn your career, start your career, change your career or get the courses you need to transfer to a four-year school. Visit www.cpcc.edu or call 704.330.2722 for more information.

The British American School of Charlotte is a premier international school in the educational landscape, providing a world-class education in a fun and caring environment. The school adapts its practice to meet the individual needs of each student, leading him to become successful lifelong learners, with high academic outcomes and the social aptitude that prepares him well to maximize the opportunities that his future holds. The personalized outcomes for each child occur by taking the best of the British education system, together with the world renowned International Primary Curriculum and create a learning journey for children that develops their skills, knowledge and understanding of the world that is truly world-class. The British American School of Charlotte takes its understanding of child development and translates it into excellent classroom practice, taking account of differences in learning styles and the individual’s pace learning making the experience vivid and exciting. The school offers challenge and support in equally measures that ensures every child, no matter what stage in their development, goes onto achieve success.

SENIOR SERVICES

COLLEGES & UNIVERSITIES

CHARLOTTE SCHOOLS

The Carriage Club Charlotte is a unique full-service rental retirement community. Our residents have the comforts of home, in a beautiful residential setting, while enjoying the peace of mind and convenience of a continuing care retirement community. You have conveniences such as housekeeping, full maintenance, security and a wellness program allowing you to live life to its fullest. If health care is required, as a continuing care retirement community, you will find a full continuum of services available, including assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing/rehabilitation. The community is nestled among 44 acres of mature trees, natural landscaping and two lakes, providing opportunities for daily walks on winding walking trails. Perhaps the most important characteristic of the Carriage Club is the people. It is a place where you can catch up on old friendships and easily begin new ones. Our residents tell us that the moment they walked through the front door, they felt welcome. An attitude of caring and professionalism is evident in the dedicated and energetic staff.

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte) is a dynamic place of collaboration and learning for students and the entire campus community. Combining its reputation for outstanding undergraduate education with its meteoric rise in graduate and research programs, UNC Charlotte is a place electric with the spirit of discovery. UNC Charlotte is the single greatest source of intellectual capital in the Charlotte region. Its students, faculty and staff engage with scores of community groups to help make life better for everyone in the region. A public research university, UNC Charlotte is the fourth largest campus among the 17 institutions that comprise the University of North Carolina system. It is the largest institution of higher education in the Charlotte region. As of fall 2007, the university offers 18 doctoral programs, 61 master’s degree programs and 89 programs leading to bachelor’s degrees. Enrollment exceeded 22,000 in fall 2007 including more than 4,400 graduate students. More than 43,000 alumni live in the Charlotte metro area. Students from more than 80 countries attend UNC Charlotte, where diversity and inclusion is highly prized. UNC Charlotte is home to several research centers and institutes with concentrated expertise in areas such as bioinformatics, motor sports engineering, optoelectronics, precision engineering, transportation policy, visualization technology and many more.

Discover life at Charlotte Christian School. Recognized as a 2006 Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, Charlotte Christian has been cultivating students for more than half a century to have a love for learning. They are prepared to be extraordinary thinkers and Christ-honoring decision makers. The school helps them discover a deeper knowledge in academics; discover teamwork in athletics; discover a creative side in fine arts; and discover God’s truth in spiritual life. Charlotte Christian nurtures and educates the whole child: mind, body and spirit. Its faculty and staff instill the vision and practice of excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts and Christian character. It partners with parents to prepare students to excel in college and in life. As a college preparatory school for junior kindergarten through 12th

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

grade students, it emphasizes equipping and developing students while integrating Biblical truth and learning into their daily lives. For more information, please visit www.charlottechristian.com or call the Charlotte Christian School admissions staff at 704.366.5657, ext. 6503

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

CHARLOTTE SCHOOLS

Charlotte Latin is an independent, coeducational, nonsectarian, college preparatory day school that enrolls 1,370 students in transitional kindergarten through grade 12. Latin provides opportunities to support students’ academic achievement, character development, leadership qualities and life-long love of learning. Latin’s challenging yet nurturing environment is created by a balance of academic excellence, a strong athletic program, an exceptional commitment to the arts and an educational approach that is traditional in design yet progressive in implementation. Charlotte Latin fosters a close relationship between its faculty and students. With their teachers’ guidance, students of all ages study and serve the neighborhoods that surround them and the world that beckons them in preparation to care for and succeed in the global community. Extracurricular activities, an age-appropriate community service program, and an extensive international exchange and study abroad program are offered. Latin is a school where families of diverse backgrounds, races, religions and nationalities share the common values of honor, integrity and mutual respect, as well as an enduring dedication to their children’s educational journey and moral development. Charlotte Latin is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools and is jointly accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Southern Association of Independent Schools.

Charlotte Preparatory School provides an extraordinary educational experience founded on academic excellence, character development and leadership in a culturally diverse community. Charlotte Preparatory School is a private, non-denominational school for children from age three to eighth grade with a Montessori Early School for the preschool child and a college preparatory curriculum for kindergarten through eighth grade. Charlotte Preparatory School – where tomorrow’s leaders are nurtured today. Drop-in tours are offered every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. No appointment is necessary. For more information, visit www.charlotteprep.com.

MACS is a system of eight schools located throughout Mecklenburg County with six elementary school (five kindergarten through fifth grade and one through eighth grade), as well as a high school and a middle school. Faith, tradition and academic excellence are a part of all eight schools. Faith – giving students the opportunity to experience what a faith-based education can mean to them. Tradition – Charlotte Catholic Schools date back more than 75 years providing a quality education in the Catholic tradition. Academic Excellence – all Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools have a strong tradition in academic excellence, consistently exceeding national, state and local standardized test results. Admission information is available at 704.370.3273 or www.charlottediocese.org/macs.

CHARLOTTE SCHOOLS

Since 1970, Providence Day School has fostered in each student a passion for learning, a strong sense of social responsibility and a commitment to personal integrity. A school is only as good as its teachers. Providence Day School has assembled one of the nation’s finest pre-collegiate faculties. Our teachers are well educated, with 42 percent holding advanced degrees. With more than 700 networked computers on campus, technology is a highly regarded educational tool. Teachers use wireless laptop computers, document cameras, SMART Boards and Senteo technology, as well as video and digital cameras for instruction. Providence Day School is committed to helping students acquire the knowledge, insight, and first-hand experiences needed to live in our global society. Our Global Studies Diploma Program, the first of its kind in the country, allows students in grades nine through 12 to choose a curriculum and set of experiences focused on developing successful and responsible global citizens. Our campus is beautiful, our facilities are warm and inviting, our curriculum is rigorous, and our teachers are enthusiastic and nurturing. Providence Day School is an independent, coeducational, pre-kindergarten through 12th grade college preparatory school, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence.

Founded in 2000 with 102 students, Trinity Episcopal School (TES), an independent kindergarten through eighth grade school, now enrolls 415 students for the 2008-2009 year. Our location in the Garden District of Uptown Charlotte’s First Ward neighborhood allows our educators to use the entire Center City as an extended classroom for cultural and spiritual enrichment, hands-on learning and opportunities to serve. The TES curriculum encourages students to think creatively and critically. Our honor code holds them to the highest standards of personal conduct and our unique programs and service learning partnerships provide lessons that light the way to a noble, productive and Godly life. Our school community is one of socioeconomic, racial and ethnic diversity, creating a mutual sense of belonging, respect and acceptance. Trinity is a place of pride and passion, where both teachers and students are fully engaged, our distinct approach to education is embraced and the energy, excitement and sense of belonging radiate throughout. For more information contact Trinity Episcopal School at 704.358.8101 or visit online at www.tescharlotte.org.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

HOME SERVICES

Carolina Buyer’s Agent specializes in buyer representation only, giving buyers the negotiating advantage throughout the home purchase process! We’re one of the only real estate firms in the Charlotte area that doesn’t take listings or represent sellers, so you’ll benefit from our negotiating expertise without ever risking dual or designated agency at any time. Carolina Buyer’s Agent can be your exclusive buyer’s agent on any home for sale in the Charlotte area, including for-sale-by-owner homes! Every advantage counts, so choose Carolina Buyer’s Agent to represent you! If you are considering new construction, we will help you compare builders and find out who is offering special incentives, discounts on inventory homes, and close-out specials. We’ll do a “Comparative Market Analysis” of the other homes in the neighborhood that have recently sold to make sure you’re not paying too much for your home. And best of all, the builder or seller will pay our fee on your behalf! Search the full range of homes for sale, including for-sale-by-owner homes, at www.charlotte-eba.com, and put the expertise of an exclusive buyer’s agent to work for you!

Crescent Communities develops award-winning master planned communities throughout the southeast and southwest. With site plans subordinate to the land, innovative programming, thoughtful architectural identities and meticulously landscaped entrances and common areas, Crescent has repeatedly created communities of enduring value and unparalleled lifestyles. Each of Crescent’s Charlotte-area communities offers its own unique mix of amenities and activities for every member of the family, ranging from championship golf courses and clubhouses to nature trails, community parks, tennis courts, swimming pools and full-time activities directors who plan events year-round for the young and young at heart. Throughout its more than 35-year history, Crescent has exemplified a strong commitment to the greater communities it serves, as well as to the natural environment. In its many lake communities, for example, it is routine to exceed the stringent setback standards established by regulatory agencies. Trees are saved, sometimes at high costs, and bridges are built so as not to interfere with streams and the wildlife they serve. You will find no more highly respected developer in the Charlotte area than Crescent Communities. More information is available at www.MyCrescentHome.com.

For more than 50 years, McCar Homes has been developing a reputation for expert craftsmanship and innovative design. McCar Homes builds exceptionally crafted single-family homes and townhomes in the most sought-after locations in Charlotte. Unsurpassed in construction quality and customer service, McCar Homes adds value to your life in more ways than just through great prices. Ranging from the $140s to the $320s, we offer two- and three- story homes with a variety of enhancements including large wooded homesites, finished basements and three-car garages. Our beautiful neighborhoods feature a diverse selection of floorplans designed for individual homeowners, couples and families with children. The creative layouts include first floor masters, third floor suites, bonus rooms and private studies. Our 10 Charlotte-area communities feature an array of activities and amenities that include swimming pools, playgrounds, residents’ clubs, sports courts and walking trails. For the active family or a leisure lifestyle, McCar Homes has a neighborhood for every buyer. McCar Homes’ Charlotte communities demonstrate the quality and value you expect from one of the nation’s top home builders. Visit mccarhomes.com to view virtual tours, browse floorplans and available inventory, and to learn about our homeowner warranty and finance options.

please stop by and visit all our sponsors: All for Seniors

Charlotte Christian School

McCar Homes

Apartment Finder Magazine

Charlotte Latin School

Mecklenburg Area Catholic Schools

Bank of America

Charlotte New Home Guide

Providence Day School

Belk

Charlotte New Home Journal

Resale Home Guide

Berewick

Charlotte Preparatory School

Shads Landing

British American School

Charlotte Sister Cities

Senior Villages

Carolina Buyers Agent

Crescent Resources

Trinity Episcopal School

Carriage Club of Charlotte

Dore Academy

University of North Carolina- Charlotte

Center City Partners

Gentle Giant Moving Company

University Park Baptist Church

Central Piedmont Community College

Helen Adams Realty

WTVI

Charlotte Apartment Guide

Latin American Chamber of Commerce

YMCA/Carolina Medical Center

Mayors International Cabinet

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

New friends. New job. New City.

Same dream.

You’ve already decided to live in Charlotte. Now where will you call home? For more than 30 years, we’ve remained dedicated to outstanding customer service, innovative design, quality construction and premium locations. So you get a chance to make a new start on a dream you’ve had for a while.

Stop by one of our communities today to see the M/I Difference. 8

CHARLOTTE/ DOUGLAS INT’L AIRPORT

273 BELMONT

4 3

EAST CHARLOTTE Applegate From the $180s 704-567-8338 FORT MILL Massey From the $280s 803-396-2991 MINT HILL Brighton Park From the $220s 704-573-4440 Morgan Run From the $260s 704-573-4440

HUNTERSVILLE Carrington Ridge From the $200s 704-766-0090 Centennial From the $200s 704-766-0801 LAKE NORMAN/ MOORESVILLE Byers Creek From the $250s 704-658-0511 Northbridge From the $270s 704-660-8280

WAXHAW Cureton I & II From the $200s 704-243-3962 III From the $390s 704-243-4900

From the $200s 704-847-5210

10 Cureton

CONCORD From the $200s 704-721-7812 12 Christenbury

LAKE WYLIE AREA Village of Abernathy From the $280s 704-583-9048

14 Berewick

11 GlenGrove

Mews From the $280s 704-971-5015

Talk to a New Home Consultants today or visit mihomes.com CHAR690 NWCMR AD 10-08

STALLINGS 13 Callonwood

FINDING YOUR

DREAM

HOME

WHETHER YOU WANT TO RENT OR OWN; WHETHER YOU LOVE THE BUSTLING URBAN SCENE OR QUIET TREE-LINED STREETS; WHETHER YOU SEEK AN APARTMENT, CONDOMINIUM, LOFT OR SINGLE-FAMILY HOME, YOU’LL FIND WHAT YOU WANT IN CHARLOTTE. Plan to spend some time exploring the possibilities, either alone or with the help of a real estate agent. The maps and descriptions on the following pages will acquaint you with the different sections of Mecklenburg County, including areas within Charlotte’s city limits and other towns outside of Charlotte, and with the surrounding counties. In July 2008, Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s average single-family home closing price was $198,355. In this buyers’ market, you are practically assured of finding your dream home at a reasonable price.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

30 32 32 34 36

Mecklenburg County Finding a REALTOR® Finding a Builder Apartment Living Contiguous Counties

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

115

IREDELL

Lake

Norman

CAB

DAVIDSON

115

ARR

le y

Ba i

Lake Sam 77

rc hR d

Asbury

k Cree

Amity

d R

g sb ur

ll R d Mi nt

INDIAN TRAIL

e Ke

i r v i ew Fa Rd

HEMBY BRIDGE

LAKE PARK

ut t C

Commons

Trail

WEDDINGTON

Rd Wa xhal l

WESLEY

MONROE

Ind ian

Rea

d R W

Tra

or Sh

Elm Ln

MARVIN

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

we r

rri

Sam

Ma tthe ws -

Newell Rd

485

STALLINGS

P kw y

La wy er

I UN

MATTHEWS

st cre Se

s to

y w R rH TE ste AS NC LA

160

MINT HILL

me l

Ca r

St Dr Eastw ay

aro

ar Sh

am Gr ah

Se lw Ave yn

R d on

Rd Park

Blvd South

218

521

Providenc

d R

Rd M

ck y R iver Rd

Statesville

le vil

lly Ho

r ve Ri

a awb

Fo r Rd d

ce en

s ew

tth

ve Rd ro ilg Hill t in M

ils

Id l e w i l d

id ov

Ballantyne

ve ro G on Rd

La wy ers

N. Sardis

llow

Nations

Alb

is Sard

ail Qu

521

e arl

Idlewild

M Lo EC KL CAB EN ARR CAMP STE WA BU US RT RG Rd C 485 CO O

Monro

d h R

olp

Yo rk

Pe nc e

Eastland Mall

le evil

Hood Rd

Rea

Plaza

Col

on y

d o c ky River R t

E. Har ris

Ave

River

cky

mroc k

Old

Sha

en ce B lv d

Stee le

Creek Rd

Cat

k Cree Back h Rd Churc

Sug

Park

Shopton

rity pe os h Pr hurc d R C

PINEVILLE

R YO

Fairv iew

HARRISBURG 49

Plaza

St .

LOWE'S MOTOR SPEEDWAY

tral

Myers Park

Carolina Place Mall

L an

2 4 kilometers

SouthPark Mall

Cen

7th

FORT MILL

hda

521

485

Ind st

Ma 85 Ch llard Ck urc h Rd

NoDa

Plaza Midwood

Tyvola

Arc

77 TEGA CAY

Wood lawn

n so

vid e Da Th

NC SC

277

n yo Tr

Wylie

d owin C ar

Lake

row oo

Blvd

160

Blvd

Sledge R d

ad Tr

la vo Ty

ho us e

Uptown on ry

Blvd

g tin es W

Dilworth

NC SC

Salle St

Park way

to nS m it

485

lla

521

601

CONCORD 29

Harris

Billy Graham

279

l kin son

t Wes

CONCORD REGIONAL AIRPORT

e's zell Roz ry Rd Fer

m Dr

CHARLOTTE / DOUGLAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Statesville

Reames Rd

rd Fo

Bv La

iel

tf as

W.T.

Washington Heights

Wesley Heights Fre e

601

wn Bro

ies

miles 2

273

485

BELMONT

ale

ro ok s hi

u Br

Kerns

att kd

Mt.

Northlake Mall

Hunt ers

m b r i g ht

Mountain Island Lake

115

Old

Chapel R d

HUNTERSVILLE

Ra m a

d lea

N e ck

Concord

ll Huntersvi

R Beatties Ford

LINCOLN CO GASTON CO

hu hC Rama

MOUNT HOLLY

Furr

Norman

273

Ro Riv cky er Rd

CORNELIUS

Ballantyne KANNAPOLIS Center City Ring 29 North Mecklenburg KANNAPOLIS Eastside Rd e l l esvi Moor South Mecklenburg 3 Mountain Island 29 Southeast Westside Southwest 73 73 University City Uptown 29

MONROE AIRPORT

CHAPEL C simpson maps 2008 simpsonmaps.com

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

MECKLENBURG COUNTY UPTOWN Uptown Charlotte is one of the trendiest residential areas, with glitzy condominiums, rehabbed lofts, new single-family homes, town homes and elegant Victorian homes within blocks of each other. Nearly 13,000 people currently reside within the Uptown loop, the area encircled by I-77 and the John Belk and Brookshire freeways. By 2028, approximately 100,000 people will reside here. Charlotte was originally divided into four districts, or “wards,” with Trade and Tryon Streets serving as the inner boundaries. The city still uses the terms to identify areas Uptown. Fourth Ward was the first to be revitalized, starting in the 1970s. Today, it includes homes, condominiums and apartments in a Victorian atmosphere, within walking distance of the cultural district and office towers. Third Ward has experienced a resurgence in recent years, thanks to its proximity to Bank of America Stadium (home of the Carolina Panthers) and the development of offices, shops, restaurants and the cultural facilities campus expected to open this year. Another addition is Johnson & Wales University, which revolutionized Third Ward when it opened its doors in 2004. First Ward is the home of Time Warner Cable Arena, ImaginOn, several museums, restaurants and night life. It has a range of housing options, from apartments to single-family homes. And the LYNX Blue Line (light rail) originates at 7th Street in First Ward. Formerly an area devoted to government buildings, Second Ward is also becoming a residential area. The luxurious Ratcliffe on the Green condominiums includes an interactive park with fountains and walkways. The EpiCenter is quickly becoming a nightlife Mecca with several clubs and lounges. A movie theater, restaurants and other retail are also planned, as well as a condo tower that is still under construction.

CENTER CITY RING If you’d like to live close to Uptown but not in the direct shadow of the skyscrapers, you have a huge range of options, both in terms of price and type of housing. Charlotte’s Center City Ring, sometimes called urban ring neighborhoods, surround the Uptown area. They can be divided roughly into two categories: the historic streetcar suburbs sometimes known as “Old Charlotte” and the transitional neighborhoods that were built out

primarily in the post-World War II housing boom. Old Charlotte – Compared to most cities, old Charlotte doesn’t look old at all. These neighborhoods were Charlotte’s first true suburbs. They began to emerge in the late 1800s thanks to streetcar routes. Myers Park and Eastover are the grande dames of Old Charlotte with their stately homes and oak-canopied avenues. Dilworth, created in 1898, experienced a revival during the 1980s and is now a comfortable, elegant neighborhood. SouthEnd, located next to Dilworth near South Boulevard, has recently redeveloped into a hot spot, drawing people from all over the city to its restaurants, nightclubs and businesses. And new apartments and condos continue springing up along the LYNX Blue Line, which runs through the heart of SouthEnd. Cherry (adjacent to Myers Park), Biddleville and Washington Heights (off Beatties Ford Rd.) are among Charlotte’s oldest historically black neighborhoods. They’ve declined quite a bit from their former glory, but commercial developments in and around these neighborhoods are attracting investors that will likely turn these neighborhoods into residential hot spots in a few short years. Some other neighborhoods in “Old Charlotte,” each in various stages of revitalization, include the Wesley Heights local historic district (northwest of Center City between W. Morehead and W. Trade Streets), Wilmore (off South Tryon Street), Elizabeth (area around East Seventh Street), Crescent Heights (off Randolph Rd.), PlazaMidwood (along Central Avenue and The Plaza), and Belmont (off 12th Street near Alpha Mill, Charlotte’s oldest textile mill now renovated into trendy, upscale apartments). Transitional Neighborhoods – Much like Old Charlotte, transitional neighborhoods vary widely in housing prices and level of revitalization. Several of them, such as Chantilly and Sedgefield, are nestled near Old Charlotte neighborhoods, enjoying a certain level of prominence by association. Housing prices in these neighborhoods have climbed rapidly over the last decade. But if you’re a bargain-hunting urban pioneer, one of the transitional neighborhoods in the early stages of revitalization may be the place for you. Many of these neighborhoods have their own fascinating histories, albeit more recent history. Camp Greene, for instance, is named after the World War I army training camp that operated there. Camp Greene brought thousands of soldiers to Charlotte in the 1920s, many of whom returned to Charlotte after the war. Development of the neighborhood continued into the 1950s, and it is now populated with bungalows, ranch houses and a beautiful canopy of mature trees.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Max Daetwyler Corporation Daetwyler Plaza 13420 Reese Blvd. W Huntersville, NC 28078

Weaverthorpe, LLC 11845 Vanstory Dr. Huntersville, NC 28078

• Easy & convenient access from I-77 at exit 23 • Located inside The Park Huntersville • .H\ 0DQ RI¿FH VXLWHV LQ YDULRXV VL]HV • N N VT IW RI QHZ RI¿FH ZDUHKRXVH ÀH[ VSDFH • World-class manufacturing facility delivering on-time, on-cost, on-spec large or small run engineering, machining, fabrication jobs and more Inquire today for availability & quotes! Property Contacts: Alice-Marie Darnell Daetwyler Plaza Manager 704-948-1232 Andrew Nicholson Weaverthorpe, LLC, AMR Commercial Real Estate amrrealestate@bellsouth.net

sales-all@daetwyler.com www.daetwyler-usa.com

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

Mecklenburg County continued

Finding a REALTOR

A good Realtor® is key to finding a home in Charlotte. Many real estate companies offer relocation specialists to help new residents get a feel for the city, discover the best area for a home and get settled in quickly. Your employer may have an arrangement with a local real estate professional to handle employees’ relocation needs. If you need to find your own agent, start by checking with Info! Charlotte at www.charlottechamber.com/infocharlotte or contact the Charlotte Regional Realtors® Association at www.carolinahome.com or 704.372.0911.

Finding a BUILDER For a list of builders in the Charlotte area, start at Info! Charlotte or with your real estate agent. If you can’t find what you want there, call the Home Builders Association of Charlotte at 704.376.8524 or visit it online at www.hbacharlotte.com. You can also access the National Home Builders Association online at www.nahb.org. Finally, the Charlotte Observer’s Home section, which appears every Saturday, includes advertising from area home builders.

SOUTHWEST NODA NoDa, a segment of North Davidson Street approximately two miles from Uptown, is a National Register Historic District in recognition of the part the area’s mills played in textile history. The last mill shut down in the 1970s, and the area began attracting artists who envisioned and created an arts community. NoDa is now home to a variety of funky galleries, restaurants, live music venues and housing options.

EASTSIDE Some of the earliest residential movement outside of the city headed east along Independence Boulevard, Central Avenue, Albemarle Road and Monroe Road. These roads continue to support this area, which is full of older, established neighborhoods and many apartment complexes. Central Avenue is known for its diverse shops and restaurants, and Eastland Mall, located in East Charlotte, features an indoor ice-skating rink.

SOUTHEAST CHARLOTTE When the city started expanding rapidly during the 1960s and ’70s, most of the development headed south. The Cotswold neighborhood was one of the first areas, developed in the 1960s. SouthPark mall, established in 1970, became the catalyst for a host of retail, business and residential development. Today, SouthPark feels almost urban. Throughout the area, you’ll find plenty of housing options, ranging from small brick ranches to new-home communities to mansions. South Charlotte continues to be the best place in town to find upscale shopping.

BALLANTYNE

WESTSIDE The Westside saw its first suburban growth in the 1950s and ’60s. The area is experiencing a new growth spurt with the completion of the western portion of the I-485 loop and the U.S. National Whitewater Center. And as home to the Charlotte/Douglas International Airport and with easy access to I-85 and I-77, the Westside is great area for frequent travelers who want to get in and out of town quickly. The Whitewater Center has the world’s only multi-channel recirculating whitewater river, as well as challenge courses, 11 miles of biking/hiking/running trails, climbing walls and a climbing school, guided kayak tours along the Catawba river, a conference center and event venues, and The Eddy restaurant and bar overlooking the whitewater course. The Whitewater Center will bring tourists from all over the world.

MOUNTAIN ISLAND

Ballantyne is a 2,000-acre master planned community in South Charlotte that was developed in the 1990s on farmland once owned by the Harris family, one of Charlotte’s oldest and most prestigious families. Combining all elements of life, the area has a wide range of housing, employment, shopping and entertainment options. The area’s crown jewel is the Ballantyne Resort, a AAA four-diamond hotel and spa and a par 71, five-star championship golf course.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

The southwest corner of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County is home to large business parks on Arrowood Road and Westinghouse Boulevard, as well as one of Mecklenburg’s largest parks, McDowell, along Lake Wylie. Airport expansion and the I-485 outerbelt are luring even more businesses. The widening of N.C. 49 through southwest Charlotte into South Carolina bolstered development in the area, including several expensive developments along the shores of Lake Wylie. Duke Power created Lake Wylie in 1904 and enlarged it in 1924. With 12,455 acres and 325 miles of shoreline, the lake provides water recreation to residents and visitors in three counties — Mecklenburg and Gaston in N.C. and York County in S.C.

Mountain Island Lake, which covers 3,235 acres, is bordered by Gaston County on the west and Mecklenburg County on the east. Duke Energy created the lake in 1924. Much of the watershed is protected from development, since the lake provides drinking water for most Mecklenburg and Gaston County residents. Once a small, farming village known as Shuffletown, the Mountain Island area has become a popular location for residential development. Numerous new housing developments are emerging along Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road, which runs parallel to I-485 in this area from I-77 to Mountain Island Lake, and in the Northlake Mall area.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

We chose what we wanted. And what we wanted to spend. Built to Order™ is built around you. Your individual style. Your way of life. And, most of all, your budget. It’s an experience that ensures you’ll have a home you truly love. ™

888-KB-HOMES kbhome.com ©2007 KB Home (KBH). See Built to Order™ options and upgrades offered at KB Home Studio. All options/upgrades require additional charges, may require ordering at predetermined stages of construction and are subject to change/discontinuation anytime by KB Home. KB Home is not a custom homebuilder and Built to Order™ only applies to appliances/options available at KB Home Studio. Exterior photo shows upgraded landscaping/options and may not represent communities’ lowest-priced homes. Interior photos show options/upgrades that may be available at predetermined stages of construction for an additional cost and decorator items/furnishings not available for purchase from KBH. Photo does not depict racial preference. See sales counselor for details. CHA-68389

Mecklenburg County continued

APARTMENT LIVING Charlotte residents who seek an apartment lifestyle will find a wide variety of options in the metropolitan area’s 100,000 apartments and condominiums. Renters may choose from a variety of sizes and floor plans in convenient locations all over Mecklenburg County. The market includes garden apartments with patios or balconies, townhomes with balconies, duplexes and “quads,” or four-unit buildings. Furnished apartments, often with short-term leases, can serve as temporary homes for executives transferring to the area.

Amenities vary depending on the age of the apartment complex, but some of the options include fireplaces, garages, alarm systems, washer/dryer connections, storage areas and eat-in kitchens. Many newer complexes also offer tennis courts, swimming pools, Jacuzzis, fitness equipment or social activities in the clubhouse. Pets are welcome at many apartment communities.

According to the American Chamber of Commerce Researchers Association (ACCRA), the average apartment in Charlotte rents for $725. Before signing a lease, most renters must pay the first month’s rent and a security deposit equal to the same amount. Apartment complexes and landlords must comply with applicable fairhousing requirements.

UNIVERSITY CITY University City, home to UNC Charlotte and University Research Park, began to blossom in the late 1980s. The area is one of Charlotte’s largest employment centers, with many technology and banking firms with offices in University Research Park and nearby business parks. Housing in this area is a great mix of single-family and multifamily choices. This area also has some of Charlotte’s best choices for apartments, condominiums, town homes and patio homes that serve college students and young professionals. Retail development is booming in this area, with more than 3 million square feet of stores centered on W.T. Harris Boulevard and I-85. The region’s largest outlet mall, Concord Mills, lies just over the Cabarrus County line along I-85. And Northlake Mall is located at the I-77 and W.T. Harris Boulevard junction.

SOUTH MECKLENBURG COUNTY Matthews – A rapidly growing town, Matthews is popular for its antique and craft shops, newhome developments and convenient location. With a population of approximately 25,000, the town is balancing new development with the preservation of historic buildings, some dating back to the 19th century. Mint Hill — Mint Hill is primarily a residential community, with about 20,000 residents. The town has a strong retail market, a historical society, an athletic association and a number of civic clubs. Pineville — Once a mill village, Pineville calls itself “the ‘biggest’ small town around” with a population of only 6,000 but more than 6 million square feet of retail space. Just 12 miles from Uptown Charlotte, Pineville is a dining and shop-

When you plan your move, you also may wish to purchase renter’s insurance, which can cover the contents of the apartment, home or condominium in case of theft, fire or other unexpected occurrence. Consult your insurance agent for more information.

Several publications, many of which are free, can assist with your search for the perfect rental apartment or house. Additional information on the Charlotte apartment market can be found on the Greater Charlotte Apartment Association’s Web

DID Y K OU

NOW ?

Bef “On t ore Charl es h repor e Road” f Kuralt w or CB ent ter fo S Raise r d in C The Char , he was gradu harlotte lotte New a , Kur ate s. Centr of Charlo alt was a tte’s al Hi ol gh Sc hool. d

ping Mecca with options ranging from quaint antique stores in Pineville’s historic downtown to national chains at Carolina Place Mall. The LYNX Blue Line terminates just outside of Pineville, linking it directly to Uptown Charlotte.

NORTH MECKLENBURG COUNTY North Mecklenburg County is home to Lake Norman and three bustling towns: Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville. With 520 miles of shoreline, Lake Norman is the largest body of fresh water in North Carolina. Duke Power Co., now Duke Energy Corp., created the lake in the early 1960s when it dammed the Catawba River at Cowans Ford to provide cooling for McGuire Nuclear Station. Mecklenburg, Lincoln, Catawba and Iredell counties border the lake. Residents and visitors enjoy boating, waterskiing, swimming, kneeboarding and fishing. And several golf-course communities have been developed at the edge of Lake Norman, so residents can enjoy the beauty of both the lake and golf course. Cornelius – As a gateway to Lake Norman, Cornelius has become an attractive residential location with 21,000 residents. The popular area around Lake Norman has spawned numerous residential and commercial developments to serve its growing population. Davidson – Just north of Cornelius is Davidson, the home of Davidson College. Residents enjoy cultural and sporting events offered by the college, as well as the amenities of Lake Norman and the town’s New England-flavored main street. The town has a little fewer than 10,000 residents. About 1,700 students attend Davidson College, one of America’s premier liberal-arts schools. Huntersville – Fifteen miles north of Charlotte and easily accessible by I-77, Huntersville is home to about 40,000 people. Birkdale, one of Huntersville’s most popular areas, is a 52-acre mixed use development modeled after a New England sea coast town. It offers apartments, single-family homes, shopping, dining, movies, live entertainment in warm weather and a splash fountain that will entertain the kids for as long as you can stand it. Huntersville is also home to several historic sites including Latta Plantation Park, a large nature preserve and home to the restored antebellum Latta Plantation.

site for renters at www.rentingworks.com. Info! Charlotte also has information on apartment communities.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

Our Best Price, Your Best Move! Charlotte’s #1 Homebuilder Offers An Unrivaled Value Exactly Where You Want To Be. • Over 45 Communities Throughout The Charlotte Metro Region • Condos, Townhomes And Single-Family Homes From The $100’s - $700’s

ryanhomes.com

IRDELL COUNTY

Statesville

40 Lake Norman

85 Lincolnton

LINCOLN COUNTY Concord

CABARRUS COUNTY

Gastonia

GASTON COUNTY

Charlotte

MECKLENBURG COUNTY

UNION COUNTY

York

Monroe

YORK COUNTY

NORTH CAROLINA SOUTHCAROLINA

77 Lancaster

OU DID Y

LANCASTER COUNTY

? W O N K

ent his cott sp ed on S h lp d liv ando ard an star R ing Movie in Fourth W ort time dur d h o s o a o childh ad for e heading t rth Ro r Dilwo 1920s befo ppeared ea the ood. H Hollyw 150 films. in

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

CONTIGUOUS COUNTIES Charlotte is the center of the nation’s fifthlargest urban area, with 6.9 million people residing within 100 miles of Uptown. As Charlotte has grown and prospered, so have nearby cities and counties. While in some respects they blend together as one metro area, in many ways each city and county retains its distinctive flavor.

CABARRUS COUNTY More than 150,000 people live in Cabarrus, just 20 miles northeast of Uptown Charlotte and is easily accessible by I-85. Concord, the county seat, is one of the state’s fastest-growing cities, with a population of 61,000. Concord is a major tourist destination with Concord Mills and Lowe’s Motor Speedway located just a few miles apart off I-85 exit 49. Kannapolis, with a population of nearly 30,000, was built by Charles Cannon in 1887. Once home to the historic Cannon Mills, it is now a center of biotech research and development as home to the N.C. Research Campus. Cabarrus offers plenty for residents and visitors to enjoy. Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site in Stanfield commemorates the first gold discovery in North Carolina in 1799. Other attractions include Cannon Village, the Bost Grist Mill, Historic Downtown Concord’s Shopping District and Memorial Gardens.

GASTON COUNTY Just west of Mecklenburg County is Gaston County, known for its history in the textile production and trucking industries. More than 198,673 people live in Gaston County, with 67,913 in its largest city, Gastonia. The county’s public school system is the sixth-largest in North Carolina. The county celebrates its heritage through a variety of museums, including the Gaston County Museum of Art and History in the original county seat of Dallas, the Schiele Museum of Natural History in Gastonia and the C. Grier Beam Truck Museum in Cherryville. The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden in Belmont is becoming a major tourist attraction. Gaston County is also home to Belmont Abbey College and the popular holiday tradition of the McAdenville Christmas lights. Each December the village lines its main streets with thousands of colored lights. Visitors come from throughout the region to enjoy the extravaganza.

IREDELL COUNTY Over 151,000 people live in Iredell County. Over 26,000 of them live in Statesville, the county seat and largest town. The greater Statesville area, at the intersection of I-40 and I-77, is home to a diverse range of industries, including plastics, transportation equipment, metal working, and distribution. Mooresville, 30 minutes north of Charlotte, is conveniently near Lake Norman on I-77. That location explains why the town’s population more than doubled in the last decade, to over 20,000 residents. Mooresville is home to several NASCAR race teams and related companies and calls itself “Race City, U.S.A.”

LINCOLN COUNTY Northwest of Mecklenburg County, also on the shores of Lake Norman, is Lincoln County. Because of its location on the western side of the lake, Lincoln County

is becoming a hot spot for those who prefer more secluded lakeside living. The county has a population of about 72,000. Lincolnton, the county seat and largest town with more than 10,000 residents, grew by nearly 50 percent in the past decade. The town has several industries and many historic structures. It also is home to the Lincoln Theatre Guild and the Lincolnton Apple Festival, which draws around 50,000 visitors each year. Denver, located in eastern Lincoln County, rests on the western shores of Lake Norman. Denver is a straight shot from Charlotte on N.C. Highway 16, making it easy for office workers to escape to the lake’s charms at day’s end.

UNION COUNTY Agriculture and manufacturing are important industries in the state’s fastest-growing county, just southeast of Charlotte. Farms producing livestock, corn, soybeans and cotton exist in

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

harmony with plants turning out textiles, electrical equipment and pharmaceutical capsules. Monroe, named for the fifth U.S. president, James Monroe, is home to more than 30,000 of the county’s 184,000 residents. Waxhaw, at N.C. 16 and N.C. 75, features numerous antique shops. Weddington, on the edge of Mecklenburg County, has become a prosperous suburb of Charlotte. Wingate University, nationally renowned for its international programs, is in Wingate and draws high-powered visitors thanks to the Jesse Helms Library located there.

YORK COUNTY, S.C. With more than 199,000 people, York County continues to attract newcomers to its South Carolina suburbs. As a result, the city of Rock Hill, with more than 56,000 residents, is now South Carolina’s fourth-largest municipality. Just south of the N.C./S.C. border, Fort Mill is the home of Knights Stadium, the 10,000-seat headquarters for the Charlotte Knights, a Triple-A baseball team. With about 10,000 residents, Fort Mill is a high-growth area, particularly with the addition of Baxter Village, which includes single-family homes and condominiums as well as Baxter Town Center & Village Shops, a mixed-use development of parks, shops and restaurants. Opportunities for post-secondary education in York County include Winthrop University and York Technical College, which provides technical training and two-year associate degrees. For a different look at education, visit the Museum of York County, which contains one of the largest displays of African animals and arts in the Southeast. Lake Wylie provides York County plenty of water recreation. Tega Cay, a residential community just west of Fort Mill, boasts an 18-hole championship golf course and two waterfront parks.

LANCASTER COUNTY, S.C. Covering 549 square miles, Lancaster County is 35 miles south of Charlotte. The county, which has an estimated population of more than 71,000, includes Lancaster, Kershaw, Heath Springs and eight townships. The fastest growing area is Indian Land, which is becoming a Charlotte bedroom community. Andrew Jackson State Park, nine miles north of Lancaster, offers 360 acres of camping, boating, fishing and hiking.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

;QWÂśTG C 2CPVJGTU HCP 0QY 2TQXG +V )GV %CTQNKPC 2CPVJGTU $CPMKPI Â&#x2039;

Â&#x2039;

101 00-00/000

ÂŠClark e American

Date

PA Y

to the order of

Dollars

Fo r

0101

$CPM QH #OGTKEC 0 # /GODGT (&+% %TGFKV ECTFU CTG KUUWGF CPF CFOKPKUVGTGF D[ (+# %CTF 5GTXKEGU 0 # 8KUKV DCPMQHCOGTKEC EQO RCPVJGTU HQT FGVCKNU QP TCVGU HGGU QVJGT EQUVU CPF DGPGÂż VU QH WUKPI C /['ZRTGUUKQP ETGFKV ECTF 2NCVKPWO 2NWU KU C TGIKUVGTGF VTCFGOCTM QH (+# %CTF 5GTXKEGU 0 # $CPM QH #OGTKEC CPF VJG $CPM QH #OGTKEC NQIQ CTG TGIKUVGTGF VTCFGOCTMU QH $CPM QH #OGTKEC %QTRQTCVKQP Âł%CTQNKPC 2CPVJGTU Â´ Âł2CPVJGTU Â´ CPF TGNCVGF NQIQU CTG VTCFGOCTMU QH VJG %CTQNKPC 2CPVJGTU 8KUC KU C TGIKUVGTGF VTCFGOCTM QH 8KUC +PVGTPCVKQPCN 5GTXKEG #UUQEKCVKQP CPF KU WUGF D[ VJG KUUWGT RWTUWCPV VQ NKEGPUG HTQO 8KUC 7 5 # +PE Â&#x160; $CPM QH #OGTKEC %QTRQTCVKQP #NN TKIJVU TGUGTXGF

I wanted passion. I found it at Ferguson. No matter what look you are dreaming of, the consultants at Ferguson can bring it to reality. With their passion for customer service and a huge inventory of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest bath and kitchen products, high style becomes â&#x20AC;Ś highly personalized.

Delivering Your Dream

PLUMBING

APPLIANCES

CHARLOTTE:

9315 MONROE RD, STE E

(704) 814-7989

CHARLOTTE:

2000 S. BLVD., STE. 510

(704) 370-2020

GASTONIA:

2050 REMOUNT RD

(704) 865-2100

LAKE NORMAN:

185 RACEWAY DR

(704) 799-7999

ROCK HILL:

711 RIVERVIEW RD

(803) 329-5271

PASSIONATE PEOPLE

WWW FERGUSON COM

LIGHTING

FIREPLACES

CHARLOTTE RANKINGS #1 Best Place to Live (Relocate-America.com, May 2008)

#1 Best City for Black Families (BET Magazine, February 2008)

#1 Most Educated Workforce (Business Facilities, The Location Advisors, July 2007)

#1 Top Large Counties for Recruitment & Attraction (Expansion Management June 2007. Based on relocation rate and new branch rate.)

#1 America’s Most Livable Communities (Partners for Livable Communities)

#2 Economic Strength Ranking (Policom Corporation, July 2007)

#2 Best Cities for Entrepreneurs (Entrepreneur Magazine, Septemeber 2006)

#4 Americas Best Jobs in the Hottest Markets (Business 2.0, October 2007) #4 America’s Best Housing Markets (Forbes, August 2007)

#4 Best Walking Cities of 2007 (American Podiatric Medical Association, April 2007)

#5 Best Housing Market (Forbes, May 2007)

#5 North American Cities of the Future (rankings for large metros, FDIM Magazine, April 2007)

“Your Newcomer Resource!”

#6 Top Data-Center Markets

The Tull Team

(The Boyd Co. Inc, May 2006)

#7 America’s Most Wired Cities

“Helping Families Structure Mortgages to Build Wealth”

(Forbes, January 2008)

704.370.6055 www.tullmortgage.com 757 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28207

Left to Right:

#8 Best Place for Home Sellers

Janice Pollock, (ext 205) Brad Smith, (ext 204) Shannon Lyon Greene, (ext 202) Cantey Tull, (ext 201) Tad Godwin, (ext 206) Marian Cummings, (ext 203)

(Forbes, April 2008)

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

Ţhe Ultimate Lifestyle neighborhoods from the $300’s to $3 million anderson custom homes The Ranch arcadia homes Montage beacon builders Ashton Oaks carolina phoenix builders Ashton Oaks cyras homes Ashton Oaks, Montage dillon custom homes Ashton Oaks, Montage jas-am group Ashton Oaks jordan james builders Ashton Oaks, The Ranch, Westerham

kingswood custom homes

Treetops

lifestyle custom homes Montage mcnally homes Ashton Oaks niblock homes Crosshaven persis-nova builders The Ranch provident homes Ashton Oaks, Montage regal custom home builders Ashton Oaks ryan homes Briar Cliﬀ, Morningside ryland homes Rusty Creek, Whispering Pines se miller construction Ashton Oaks shea homes Bear Creek, Crosshaven, Turtle Point

simonini builders Montage stevens construction group Montage

st lawrence homes Eagles Landing, Morningside

taylor creek homes palisades realty

Marbella

Ashton Oaks, Bear Creek, Marbella, Montage, The Ranch, Treetops, Westerham

For current neighborhood inventory and builder contact information, please visit our website: www.ThePalisades.info

directions i-485 west to exit 1, travel south on n.c. 49 for 7 miles, left on grand palisades parkway to the information center. ©2008 Rhein Palisades LLC. The materials provided are strictly for information purposes and shall not be construed as an offer or solicitation to residents in any state where prior registration or other advance qualification is required, including, but not limited to, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Florida. These printed materials do not constitute an offer to sell real property. Offers to sell property and contracts for the sale of property may only be made and accepted at the sales centers at the individual communities of The Palisades. Illustrations are artists’ depictions only or may depict other locations and are just a representation of similar facilities or scenes and may differ from completed improvements. Any facilities labeled “proposed” or “future development” may still be in preliminary stages and there is no guarantee that they will be completed or developed in accordance with any plans or specifications, if at all.

a rhein medall community

RETIREMENT LIVING f ro m a c t i v e re t i re m e n t t o s k i l l e d n u r s i n g by Anja Workman

ore retirees are moving to North Carolina and specifically to the Charlotte area. Some are following their adult children who are attracted to our area’s growing progressive business opportunities. But many seniors are also drawn to the combination of favorable yearround climate, world famous golf courses, quality health care, shopping with leisure attractions and relatively close access to the beach and mountains. There are many ways for a senior to become involved within our community. Local senior centers offer bridge tournaments, classes, meals and travel opportunities with new friends. Many churches have active programs for seniors with calendars full of trips, education classes and mentoring programs. Several multi-cultural organizations, specifically the Charlotte Mecklenburg Senior Center’s Multi-Cultural Programs, offer information and fun for seniors from different countries. In addition, several organizations serve to link seniors with schools, companies and nonprofits in need of volunteer expertise.

HOUSING AND CARE CHOICES While some seniors choose to purchase a home or condo, some may be interested in exploring the benefits offered by area retirement communities. Some services provided by these communities include transportation, housekeeping and maintenance, daily meals, and planned activities and trips with other residents. One type of retirement community available in our area is the continuing-care or life-care community that offers a full continuum of care for residents, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Typically, a resident pays an entry fee with monthly fees to live in an independent-living apartment or patio home with the option to move later to a unit with higher care if needed. Some seniors who need assistance with daily tasks but do not need more intensive nursing care

may consider a domiciliary care or assisted-living community. These communities provide both housing and personalized care services to assist individuals requiring help with activities of daily living. Some of these assisted living communities also offer specific memory care for those residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. Nursing homes provide care for their residents with extended illnesses, ongoing skilled care needs and rehabilitation. As with assisted living, some nursing homes are free standing, while others are integrated into the retirement communities.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES In addition to housing and care choices, Charlotte offers a supportive, diverse array of organizations and services designed specifically to help seniors and their caregivers. These include (but are not limited to):

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

• Adult day care centers offering members socialization and programs while providing respite for caregivers • Disability services providing support and education through numerous agencies • Geriatric care and management groups offering professional help in assessing and identifying solutions for various senior needs and issues • Home health care, both medical and nonmedical, for personal safety and assistance within a senior’s personal home • Long term care insurance specialists • Meals and nutrition programs located throughout the community • Multi-cultural programs with a wide variety of local programs and education at specific sites • Transportation

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

retirement living continued

Just1Call 704.432.1111 or 877.889.0323 • www.just1call.org

REFERENCE CONTACT LIST Centralina Area Agency on Aging (AAA) 800.508.5777 • www.centralina.org Under the Council of Government, this agency covers Mecklenburg as well as eight other contiguous counties with education and services to help and support older and disabled adults and their caregivers. AAA provides family caregiver resources, long term care facility resources, caregiving information, and training and employment opportunities for those aged 55 and older. It also provides educational opportunities and advocacy related to long term care for residents, caregivers and facilities.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Council on Aging 704.391.5216 • www.charmeckcoa.org

Moving to Charlotte? Make Paxton Your First Choice. Quality Moving Service for Over 60 Years • Top Atlas Van Line Agent • Hauling Excellence and Superior Packing Awards • Certified Drivers and Crews

For more information, contact Steve Hunt today at 704.334.7971 or shunt@paxton.com.

U.S. DOT No. 125550 NC Cert. No C-372 W W W. PA X T O N . C O M

This organization is a non-profit information clearinghouse and advocacy group for all aging-related resources and information. It offers training, on-going education, senior programs and an annual conference in May.

Charlotte Mecklenburg Senior Centers Inc. 704.522.6222 • www.charlotteseniorcenters.org Provides resources for recreation, health and wellness programs, information and counseling, and employment services for seniors. Class subjects range from computers to exercise to line dancing. Local and outof-country trips are coordinated by the centers for participants.

This free, one-call resource provides information and assistance resources for seniors, adults with disabilities, and their families and caregivers. Services include information and assistance, assessment of need, referral and linkage, and advocacy.

North Carolina careLINK 800.662.7030 • www.nccarelink.org This site provides up-to-date information about programs and services across North Carolina for families, seniors, youths and everyone in-between. It is a collaborative effort of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and many other government and non-profit information and referral stakeholders across North Carolina.

RSVP (Retired Seniors Volunteer Program) 704.522.6222 • www.charlotteseniorcenters.org/rsvp Seniors aged 55 and better volunteer and use their experience to tutor children, counsel small businesses, assist at health clinics and hospitals, distribute food to homeless or volunteer at a variety of one-time community events. The RSVP Program has affiliations with more than 40 different non-profit agencies in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area.

Shepherd’s Centers With various locations in Charlotte, this organization strives to provide meaning and purpose for senior adults by sharing learning opportunities and social services through many faiths and the greater community.

Shepherd’s Center of Charlotte 704.365.1995 • www.shepherdscharlotte.org Shepherd’s Center South 704-365-1995 • www.shepherdscentersouth.org Shepherd’s Center East 704.338.1511

Anja Workman is editor of All For Seniors, a comprehensive resource and referral directory for the Greater Charlotte area. All For Seniors covers more than 50 topics of senior-related services, organizations and agencies including: Adult Day Care, Affordable Housing, Assisted Living, Elder Law, Government Agencies, Long Term Care Options, Senior Associations and Societies, Veteran’s Benefits and more.

To request your free copy of All For Seniors, call 704.366.1410 or visit www.allforseniors-charlotte.org.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

NATURAL GAS

BKD@M Ă&#x2DC;DEĂ&#x161;BHDMS Ă&#x2DC;QDKH@AKD clean Using natural gas for water heating creates less than half the carbon dioxide emissions as using electricity would.

FGĂŚDJFOU From energy source to end-user, a natural gas water heater uses half as much energy as comparable electric models; natural gas KLJK HIĂ&#x203A;FLHQF\ IXUQDFHV DQG SURJUDPPDEOH WKHUPRVWDWV KHOS FRQVHUYH energy while keeping you comfortable and warm.

SFMJBCMF When the lights go out, you can still rely on natural gas for many of your appliance needs.

XXX QJFENPOUOH DPN 1.800.752.7504

EMPLOYMENT & ECONOMY o n w a rd a n d u p w a rd

harlotte’s most surprising characteristic is that this midsize Southern city with small-town charm is home to some of the largest corporations in North America. Each year, a steady influx of new residents move to Charlotte, keeping the city’s business and social structure fresh and alive. While Charlotte, a growing Southeastern business hub, historically has been perceived as a textile center and more recently a banking center, it has outgrown that perception in recent years – by leaps and bounds. While Charlotte is justifiably proud of the industries with which it has been linked over the years, narrow characterizations sell this city’s economy short. Charlotte enjoys a balanced economy that encompasses many sectors, as well as companies that range in size from multinational to micro business. That variety helps make Charlotte’s economy one of the healthiest and strongest in the nation. Diverse business interests shelter the city from problems that can result from slowdowns in certain sectors, corporate mergers and buyouts, plant closures and other economic challenges. The solid base also facilitates exceptionally strong growth during economic upswings. While the economy’s strength is certainly a plus, companies and individual business people considering relocation to Charlotte will find other advantages in this broad-based economy. For example, suppliers and services are abundant and convenient. Employers’ costs for wages, benefits and labor overhead, such as worker’s compensation, unemployment and health insurance coverage, are significantly lower than in other regions. And Charlotte-Mecklenburg offers an unusually rich quality of life, with ample opportunity for companies and executives who wish to actively participate in making this city an even better place to live and work.

WELL-DISTRIBUTED EMPLOYMENT Growth in employment and labor force are two of the most important indicators of regional economic health. Employment growth reflects both the demand for workers and the success of local business, while labor force growth indicates the extent to which area population responds to changing labor market conditions. As the population in the area grows, a constant and predictable flow of workers are entering Charlotte’s job market. Much of Charlotte’s growth is through the in-migration of people from outside the region seeking the superior quality of life offered here. Locally, more than 700 of the graduates move directly into the job market, and many of the area colleges work well with local business by offering courses and internships responsive to the needs of business.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

According to 2007 Employment Security Commission figures, employment in Mecklenburg County is well distributed among all major business sectors. Of the 565,415 persons employed in the county, there are 54,303 in finance and insurance, 58,773 in retail trade, 37,059 in wholesale trade, 34,391 in manufacturing and 19,378 in information. Mecklenburg County has more than 63 percent of total employment in the Charlotte region. The Charlotte MSA claims 778,398 jobs, with more than 116,702 of those created since 1998. Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s largest employers represent many sectors, including health care, government services, education, banking and finance, transportation, retail, telecommunications and manufacturing. The city boasts many corporate headquarters, including Bank of America, Duke Energy, Sonic Automotive, SPX, Nucor and Goodrich Corp. Lowe’s and Family

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

employment & economy continued

RESOURCES Charlotte Chamber Resume Bank www.charlottechamber.com/resumebank Employment Security Commission of North Carolina 500 W. Trade Street Charlotte, NC 28202 704.342.6131 North Carolina Department of Labor 500 W. Trade Street Ste. 433 Charlotte, NC 28202 704.342.6163 Employment & Training Department City of Charlotte 600 E. Trade Street Charlotte, NC 28202 704.336.3380 Workforce Development Board Charlotte-Mecklenburg 700 Parkwood Avenue Charlotte, NC 28205 704.336.6270 Equal Employment Opportunity Commission 129 W. Trade Street, Ste. 400 Charlotte, NC 28202 704.344.6682 U.S. Department of Labor 800 Briar Creek Road, Ste. CC412 Charlotte, NC 28205-6903 866.4.USWAGE

Dollar are also headquartered locally. Charlotte ranks sixth nationally in the number of Fortune 500 headquartered companies. It also is home to operations for 325 companies listed in the Fortune 500.

tional flights, the pro-business local government, the highly productive workforce for manufacturing and services, state funded worker training programs, below-average cost of living, and excellent U.S. market access from a central Atlantic coast location.

OUR LARGE CITY

INTERNATIONAL The Charlotte chapter of the North Carolina World Trade Association, which promotes international trade, is one of the largest in the nation due to Charlotte’s high quality of life, below-average cost of living, world-class arts and major league sports, as well as abundant opportunities. These attract talented individuals from around the globe. Not long ago, Charlotte could fly under the radar of most international city watchers. Not anymore. This city with deep business roots and a rich economic base strengthened by diverse industry is now a magnet that attracts foreign-owned companies and valuable employees. Foreign-owned firms enrich our business community, cultural amenities and daily lives. In turn, Charlotte offers an environment that helps foreign-owned firms grow and makes foreign-born workers feel at home. More than 483 foreign-owned firms, representing 40 countries, provide jobs to nearly 60,000 workers in Charlotte-Mecklenburg County. Another 253 foreign-owned firms operate in the 16-county Charlotte region. Along with the foreign-owned firms more than one half of the 1,373 manufacturing firms in Mecklenburg County are involved with importing or exporting goods. The Charlotte Foreign-Trade Zone, which allows goods to be brought in from overseas duty-free and stored or manufactured into a product, is one of the largest in the state. Foreign-owned firms are attracted to Charlotte because of its large airport hub with direct interna-

The Employers Association 320 W. Arrowood Drive Charlotte, NC 28273 704.522.8011 Social Security Administration 5701 Executive Center Drive, Ste. 200 Charlotte, NC 28212 1.800.772.1213

In order for any business to be successful, it must have quick and convenient access to major markets. Charlotte offers that access. Charlotte is the largest city within the nation’s sixth largest urban region. This region had a 2007 population of 12.6 million. Only the urban regions containing New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and Dallas had greater populations. Thirty out of 50 major metropolitan markets lie within a 650-mile radius of Charlotte, which can easily be reached by 24 hour truck delivery or after two hours jet time. In fact, Charlotte remains the only major distribution center midway between the Northeast, Midwest and Florida markets.

FINANCIAL SERVICES One of Charlotte’s many strengths as a leading business center is the concentration of financial institutions and resources that offer a wide diversity of size, expertise and organizations. Businesses have many options in dealing with firms ranging from large bank holding companies offering diverse financial services with operations throughout the world to small, locally operated companies often specializing in one particular financial service. The abundance of financial resources in Charlotte is certainly an advantage for companies who seek a ready source of capital, money management and investment advice services. The city ranks second nationwide in terms of banking assets headquartered here ($3.3 trillion, behind only New York). Four of the nation’s top 15 banks have operations in Charlotte, as do more than 354 mortgage bankers, more than 59 commercial finance and factoring firms, and 15 leasing companies. The city is also home to a branch of the Federal Reserve.

North Carolina Department of Commerce 8210 University Executive Park Drive, Ste 260 Charlotte, NC 28262 704.547.5750

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

COMMERCIAL MOVING & STORAGE SERVICES LOCAL • NATIONWIDE • WORLDWIDE

DON’T YOUR EMPLOYEES HAVE OTHER WORK TO DO? Keep your business running smoothly and your employees productive with high-quality, reasonable-priced, office moving services from Graebel – the only company with nationwide certification from the International Office Moving Institute (IOMI). We employ only highly qualified, background-screened professionals with years of hands-on, industry experience. And, no one else offers single source accountabilitiy from start to finish to ensure your office move will be on-time. within budget. • Office relocation • Systems furniture installation • Warehousing, distribution • Records storage • And more! AND, WHEN YOU RELOCATE YOUR EMPLOYEES, remember the same single source accountability applies to our world class household goods relocation services – across town or around the world. • Free, no obligation, in-home estimate - scheduled at your convenience Contact us for your next office or household goods move: • Company owned service centers - for uniform standards, nationwide GRAEBEL NORTH CAROLINA MOVERS • 24/7 Customer service • Experienced, certified crews 704.392.7057 | 800.373.0301 • Modern, secure storage facilities Ask for Dan Colleran | dcolleran@graebel.com | www.graebel.com © 2008, Graebel Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.

Metro Realty Charlotte Relocation Experts

800-726-1231 Serving South Charlotte Area

877-615-5175 Serving North Charlotte Area

Serving North & South Carolina with 2 convenient locations

economy & employment continued

Educating You on the Facts Your house isn’t the only thing you need to consider before you move.

• Public • Magnet • Private • Parochial • Catholic A B C • Special Needs • L.D. • Behavioral • Handicapped • Pre-Kindergarten • University Information When you’re moving it’s important to work with someone who is knowledgeable about the different school choices available to you. Barb Zavodny is a former teacher in addition to being a multi-million dollar producer. She can provide up-to-date information regarding schools in Charlotte and the surrounding areas. To combine EDUCATION & LOCATION, give Barb a call!

Barbara Zavodny Broker/Realtor ® — Allen Tate Company Licensed in NC & SC Voice Mail: 704-543-5859 barbara.zavodny@atcmail.com

Cell: 704-281-6177

MANUFACTURING Though much has been said in recent years about the decline of American manufacturing, the industry is alive and strong, even growing, in and around Mecklenburg County. North Carolina ranks as the nation’s 7th largest manufacturing state. This status has been achieved in part because of its high level of productivity. A University of North Carolina study, “The Earnings of North Carolina Workers,” has ranked North Carolina as the second most productive of the nation’s top 20 industrialized states. N.C. workers produce more output per wage than their counterparts do nationally. For each dollar of labor cost, $4.25 of value added is produced by N.C. workers. The Carolinas Piedmont Crescent, which arches across North Carolina and into part of South Carolina, is the nation’s fourth largest manufacturing region. The 9,435 firms here employ more than 485,000 workers, who produce more than $136 billion in goods. Only three other regions in the United States — the Great Lakes, New England and California — produce more goods than the Carolinas Piedmont Crescent. Within the Piedmont Crescent, the Charlotte region is North Carolina’s largest manufacturing region. Firms here produce $43.2 billion in goods. The Charlotte MSA has 2,093 manufacturing firms, which employed over 80,000 workers and paid $4.2 billion in payroll in 2006. These firms shipped $43 billion in products in 2002, according to the latest economic census. The 2007 Employment Security Commission counted more than 34,000 manufacturing workers in Mecklenburg County producing $8.4 billion in manufactured goods. At least half of the value of those goods was value added. This industry is part of the lifeblood that keeps Mecklenburg County operating.

YOU D I D

? W O KN

on ilkins ric W n o to d his ueen iry Q esignate Dairy a D The ard, a d he only t se in ev Boul , displays still in u imo site n Esk country. e e u Q the

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

LONG TERM GROWTH Perhaps most importantly, Charlotte’s robust economy is not a new phenomenon. This city has enjoyed extraordinary growth for the past decade in terms of new-business development. From 1998 to 2007, according to Chamber statistics, 7,531 new businesses created more than 69,335 jobs and absorbed 114.2 million square feet of floor area, representing a total investment of $12.5 billion. Investments ranged from downtown office towers to regional retail centers, manufacturing facilities to NFL and NBA expansion teams. According to new and expanded business indicators, Charlotte saw $2.3 billion in business investment during 2007. More than 14,648 new jobs were created by the 1,326 firms making the investment. The future for Charlotte continues to shine bright. Recent studies confirm the on-going national trend of population movement to the Sunbelt. In 2005, North Carolina ranked fifth nationally in total net migration of populat ion, and all four of the adjacent states are placed among the top 25.

Digital Cable High Deﬁnition Television Digital Video Recorder (DVR)

Home Security

High Speed Internet 24- Hour Local News

AREA’S TOP 10 LARGEST EMPLOYERS Charlotte and Mecklenburg County’s largest employers as of early 2007 are: 20,000-29,999 Employees: Carolinas HealthCare System Wachovia Corporation

Residential Phone Service

Helping you keep pace with a changing world. Time Warner Cable delivers the Charlotte

10,000-15,999 Employees: Bank of America Wal-Mart Stories Inc Adecco Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools City of Charlotte Duke Energy Food Lion North Carolina State Government Headquartered Fortune 500 Cities in Charlotte Area Bank of America Lowe’s Wachovia Corporation Duke Energy Nucor Sonic Automotive Family Dollar Goodrich Corp. SPX

region’s most advanced home entertainment and information technology available. We strive to deliver innovative and forward-looking services and products that inform, communicate, entertain and empower.

1.877.566.4892 www.twcarolina.com

Some services not available in all areas. Please call or see website for details. Channel lineup subject to change.

as of 10/08

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

www.carolinasmedicalcenter.org

No matter where you live, work or play in our region, chances are thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a Carolinas Medical Center facility or physician near you. Giving you access to more specialists, greater depths of expertise and our uncompromising excellence and commitment to care. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s who we are at Carolinas Medical Center. And where we are, is near you. Visit our website for more information on our outstanding physicians.

HEALTH & WELLNESS n o m o re e x c u s e s

ith rising obesity rates throughout the U.S. and as citizens of Charlotte grow more aware of the importance of healthy living, organizations throughout Charlotte have placed a growing emphasis on health, nutrition and wellness. Many employers have even begun using the LiveWELL Carolinas! Corporate Health program, a partnership of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte and Carolinas HealthCare System, to offer their employees extra resources and incentives to live healthy lifestyles. Local government got involved in the health and fitness trend several years ago by mandating sidewalks in new neighborhoods, expanding Parks and Recreation facilities, enhancing healthy choices in the public school system’s nutrition program, and creating a program called the Fit City Challenge. The Fit City Challenge offers encouragement, support and a wide variety of resources to help people exercise more, eat more fruits and vegetables, set goals and track their progress through its interactive Web site – www.fitcitychallenge.org. Charlotte is home to many fantastic farmers markets offering produce and homemade goods from local growers and merchants in the months of growing season. Many of the city’s top restaurants even use these markets to prepare their menus. Charlotte is also offering healthy eating options at groceries, as well as stores such as Earth Fare, Trader Joes and Whole Foods, which offer natural and organic foods at moderate prices. Adequate exercise, nutrition, health screening and stress management can prevent a wide array of diseases. If you’re not already living a healthy lifestyle, there’s no better time than the present to start. And Charlotte is a perfect place to do it!

E YMCA CHARLOTT COURTESY

Carolinas HealthCare System Physician Referral/Telehealth Services 704.355.7500 • www.carolinashealthcare.org

FINDING A PHYSICIAN Before someone in your family needs immediate care it is important to find a physician. In a new city finding the right doctor can be challenging, but looking at listings offered by your health insurer is the first step. In addition, asking neighbors, friends or co-workers if they can recommend any of the physicians, dentists, or other specialists on your list will be beneficial in choosing what is right for you. If you still need help, several local services are available to help you find a physician who is currently accepting patients: (see right)

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Mecklenburg County Medical Society Physician/Dental Referral Service 704.376.0847 Presbyterian Healthcare 704.384.CARE (2273) • www.presbyterian.org If you’re interested in the concierge medical practice mentioned above, contact Signature Healthcare at 704.554.8787 or visit it online at www.signaturehealthcare.org.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

tions and a “concierge medical practice” for those who would like extra special attention from their physicians. While the spectrum of medical services available to area residents has grown, the cost of health care remains below the national average.

Carolinas HealthCare System

Nearly 40% of adults get no free-time physical activity at all. Source: beactivenc.org

Carolinas HealthCare System (CHS) is the largest health care system in the Carolinas and one of the largest public systems in the nation. Its services cover the scope of health care, from primary care to trauma to long-term skilled nursing. Located near uptown Charlotte, Carolinas Medical Center (CMC) is the system’s flagship hospital. It is one of only five facilities in North Carolina designated as an Academic Medical Center and Teaching Hospital and a Level I Trauma Center. Located on the CMC campus, the Levine Children’s Hospital opened in late 2007. It offers 30 specialized pediatric services and state-of-the-art facilities that address the needs of patients and their families. Also within the CMC family are CMC-Mercy, CMC-Pineville and CMC-University – acute care hospitals strategically located throughout the county to bring CMC’s expertise to the suburbs – and Behavioral Health Center CMC-Randolf, a psychiatric medical center and emergency room. The system also operates several hospitals in surrounding counties, including CMCLincoln, CMC-Northeast and CMC-Union. Visit CHS online at www.carolinashealthcare.org.

Presbyterian Healthcare

Get active at your nearest YMCA! 21 locations in greater Charlotte! YMCA of greater charlotte w w w.y m c a c h a r l o t t e . o r g YMCA Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

OU Y D DI W?

KNO

e of th ent mber d i s e re Nov th p , 11 born on uth of k l o so can . P was iles , es K Jam States st 12 m city. You ju n ed r Unit , 1795, ’s cente og cabi l 2 e s t i t e. th rlo Cha till visi Pinevill s r a ne

Financial assistance available

health & wellness continued

MAJOR MEDICAL Major illnesses and injuries sometimes happen. Charlotte is a good place to be if it happens to you. Two major healthcare systems are located in the county along with a wide range of specialists, nationally renowned teaching and research institu-

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Presbyterian Healthcare is one of the founding members of Novant Health Inc. and represents its Southern Piedmont region with four hospitals, a network of primary care physician practices, outpatient surgery centers, urgent care centers, rehabilitation and community health outreach programs. Its flagship, Presbyterian Hospital, is one of the largest private community hospitals in the region. Established in 1903, it is also Charlotte’s oldest extant hospital. It offers an array of diagnostic, surgical and therapeutic services and several specialized treatment centers, including a women’s center, a children’s hospital and emergency department, a cardiovascular institute, a cancer center and a behavioral health center. Other hospitals in the system include the Presbyterian Orthopaedic Hospital, Presbyterian Hospital Huntersville and Presbyterian Hospital Matthews. The Orthopaedic Hospital is one of the few in the country dedicated solely to orthopaedic injuries and diseases and, as such, is nationally recognized for joint operations such as knee and hip replacements. Visit Presbyterian online at www.presbyterian.org.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

SALES CENTERS & MODELS OPEN DAILY:

CHARLOTTE

Mon. 1 - 6 p.m. | Tues. thru Sat. 10 - 6 p.m. | Sun. 12 - 6 p.m.

AREA COMMUNITIES MECKLENBURG COUNTY 1. BEREWICK From the $180s & $200s 704-588-9636 2. FAIRINGTON OAKS From the $320s 704-573-8889 3. MALLARD LAKE TOWNHOMES From the $150s 704-547-1773 MALLARD LAKE Final Opportunities From the Mid $200s 704-503-0777

4. MIRABELLA Models Now Open! From the $320s 704-644-4703 UNION COUNTY 5. BRIARCREST From the High $200s & $300s 704-644-4702 6. ANNANDALE From the $190s & Mid $200s 704-628-0300

CABARRUS COUNTY 7. MOSS CREEK TOWNHOMES Close Out! From the $150s 704-792-0211 MOSS CREEK SINGLE - FAMILY Final Opportunities From the Mid $200s 704-792-0211 LANCASTER COUNTY 8. ROSEMONT Located near Ballantyne From the Mid $200s & Mid $300s 704-644-4701

Preferred Lender

MARKETED

MCCAR REALTY INC.

*Incentives, prices, availability and information are believed to be accurate but subject to change without notice. Consult a McCar Homes sales agent for details. Photos shown are representative of DYDLODEOH KRPHV DQG P\ QRW EH VSHFLÀF KRPHV RIIHUHG Equal Housing Lender. SunTrust Mortgage, Inc., 901 Semmes Avenue, Richmond, VA 23224. ©2008, SunTrust Banks, Inc. SunTrust is a federally registered service mark of SunTrust Banks, Inc.

M cCARH OM ES.com

RESUME BANK

888/566-2227

LEARNING

at its

Finest FROM PRESCHOOL TO POSTGRADUATE WORK, EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION IN THE CHARLOTTE REGION – WHETHER IT’S WITH A PUBLIC INSTITUTION OR PRIVATE, CHARTER, HIGHER EDUCATION OR BEYOND – IS FIRST AND FOREMOST WITH RESIDENTS OF THE QUEEN CITY.

Charlotte boasts a wealth of K-12 educational choices. The city includes Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS, one of the nation’s best urban school districts), as well as a wide variety of private schools and charter facilities. To find the very best option, new residents should spend adequate time researching all options. Educators and administrators at all schools, both public and private, are happy to speak with newcomers and answer questions about a variety of unique programs.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

education continued

GOING PUBLIC: CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG SCHOOLS

inspire: passion for learning

CMS’ vision is to provide all students the best education available anywhere, preparing every child to lead a rich and productive life. Years later, significant work remains. But it IS true that a focus on equity and student success, coupled with unwavering commitment and hard work by many people and agencies, has brought the system excellence in many ways. Over the past decade, many national experts and observers have singled out CMS as one of the best school districts in America. The task CMS has chosen is not easy: Within the 167 schools to educate nearly 136,000 students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade – the largest school district in North Carolina – and do it better than anyone else. Success has been boundless – and continues annually.

Need proof? • In the 2007-2008 school year, 36 CMS seniors were chosen as National Merit semifinalists.

Nationally Recognized for Academic Excellence Co-educational • College-preparatory • TK - 12 5800 Sardis Road • Charlotte, North Carolina 28270 www.providenceday.org • 704.887.6000

Providence Day School exists to inspire in its students a passion for learning, a commitment to personal integrity, and a sense of social responsibility.

• CMS was the first school district in the state to offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. • CMS has 14 Honor Schools of Excellence and 23 Schools of Distinction. Also, 30 schools were identified as High Growth Schools by the North Carolina ABCs of Public Education. • 79 percent of all 2007 CMS graduates completed at least one Advanced Placement (AP) or IB course. • In 2007, 147 CMS students earned IB diplomas – a challenging two-year curriculum that leads to a qualification widely recognized by the world’s leading universities. • In 2007, CMS led the state and the nation in SAT scores for the top-tenth percentile of students, with CMS students averaging 1778, compared to a national average of 1757 and a state average of 1735.

Developing the inﬁnite potential within your child in a nurturing and culturally rich, individualized academic environment.

THE BRITISH AMERICAN SCHOOL

OF CHARLOTTE 7000 Endhaven Lane, Charlotte, NC 28277

www.britishschool.org

WELCOME TO CHARLOTTE! To schedule a tour, call 704-341-3236

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Listen and Learn from our radio show

“TEACHABLE MOMENTS” on Sundays at 8am-9am on 107.9 The LINK!

• The graduating class of 2007 earned a record $56.3 million in academic and athletic scholarships. More than 80 percent of that amount was for academics. Scholarships at 14 of the district’s 19 high schools topped the $1 million mark.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

O N C E - I N - A

- L I F E T I M E

E X P E R I E N C E .

E V E R Y

D A Y .

Visit the science lab. Learn French and Spanish. Perform in a play.

Something new every day ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSES

D I V E R S I T Y: O C T O B E R 1 , 7 P. M . J K / K : O C T O B E R 1 4 & 2 1 , 7 P. M . RSVP (704) 943-4500

Charlotte Country Day School

1440 Carmel Road Charlotte, NC 28226 (704) 943-4530 Grades JKâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;12 / Tuition assistance available. www.charlottecountryday.org

Where Teaching is Valued

LEARNING IS CELEBRATED

9502 Providence Road, Charlotte, NC 28277 Tel: 704.846.1100 Fax: 704.846.1712 www.charlottelatin.org

Charlotte Latin is an independent, non-sectarian, coeducational, college-preparatory day school serving 1370 students in transitional kindergarten through twelfth grade. Charlotte Latin does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, or national origin in the administration of its educational programs, admissions policies, financial aid policies, employment practices, or other school-administered programs.

education continued

Learners. Leaders. Individuals.

• Alexander Graham Middle students competed in the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals in 2007. The students tied for first place with a team from Poland. Teams of seven students tested their problem-solving skills against those of more than 800 teams worldwide. • CMS outpaced the state in 2006-2007 End-of-Grade writing scores in grades four, seven and 10. • Huntingtowne Farms and Statesville Road elementary schools in 2007 became the first schools in CMS to be named IB Primary Years Schools. They are among eight North Carolina schools to earn the primary years authorization.

PreK - 8th grade

Now Enrolling 212 Boyce Road | Charlotte, NC 28211 | 704/366-5994 | www.charlotteprep.com

experience charlotte! schools! higher education! seniors! moving here! fun charlotte!

Visit Info! Charlotte for information, resources and great ideas for Charlotte living.

KNO

the ote novel, r w irst llers cCu of her f unter,” M H on se rs Cars chapte Lonely dinghou a r g oa t Is nin ope e Hear g in a b evard l h n i u T “ sid Bo le re n East 937. i h w o in 1

Formerly known as Main Street Charlotte, Info! Charlotte is located in the Charlotte Chamber, at the corner of MLK Blvd. and Tryon Street. info parking sign.

www.charlottechamber.com/infocharlotte

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Within the public schools, families have the opportunity to choose the school that best meets their needs under the school assignment plan. Students can also apply to 14 magnet programs offered in 49 schools. The magnet programs focus on specific subjects or teaching techniques while integrating the North Carolina Standard Course of Study offered in all schools. As a parent, you are encouraged to review the magnet options with your child and look for the learning environment that will best suit his or her needs. Both magnet and non-magnet schools offer quality education. Take time to consider the strengths of your child and visit the schools. Any student can apply to any magnet program within CMS, but they must meet the program’s eligibility requirements prior to applying and must

YOU ? D I D W

330 South Tryon Street • 704.331.2700

Look for the

• The 2007 Newsweek magazine ranking of the 100 Best High Schools in America placed two (Myers Park and Harding University) CMS high schools in the top 100 (out of 27,000 high schools across the nation). Thirteen CMS high schools also ranked in the top 900.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

agree to fulfill program requirements to remain enrolled. Application to theme schools will be considered just like other schools throughout the district. Priority will be given to those students who have a guaranteed seat in the choice theme school. Students may select schools outside their choice zones, but transportation will not be provided. Other standout programs within CMS include Advanced Placement classes, arts education, character education, English as a Second Language, exceptional children, after-school enrichment programs, and a strong emphasis on literacy and science. The system is also currently undergoing a decentralization process. Under the plan, CMS has been reshaped into six geographic learning communities and a seventh area, called the Achievement Zone, to deliver education more efficiently and effectively. Each school will become more closely aligned with the community it serves. The plan puts resources and administration closer to parents and other members of the public. The superintendent has also implemented a much-anticipated plan for CMS for 2010 to reach global achievement using a variety of goals that range from higher academic achievement to unequaled parental involvement. For more information, visit CMS online at www.cms.k12.nc.us.

PRIVATE AND CHARTER OPTIONS More than 20,000 students are enrolled in approximately 75 independent non-public and charter schools. Among them are a growing number of elementary, middle and high school schools in a variety of denominational and non-church related institutions. Many are state accredited and/or accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Parents look to area independent schools for their reputation for holding students to high standards and encouraging excellence in both academics and personal development. Teachers also have the freedom to be creative and develop flexible teaching methods to accommodate individual learning styles. The size, quality of teaching staff, and unique mission of independent schools enable them to develop students with critical thinking and problem solving skills. The overall educational program extends beyond the classroom to include athletics, the arts and myriad opportunities for leadership. In addition, students are regularly exposed to real-life learning experiences through field trips, expert guest speakers, and the opportunity to participate in community service activities.

Go beyond. Two simple words that say everything about a Cannon School education. They go right to the heart of our passion for excellence and commitment to building a caring community in which students are eager to learn and inspired to give their best - in everything they do.

Go Beyond.

Visit us and see all the ways that we ...

5801 Poplar Tent Road | Concord, NC 28027 | 704-721-7199

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

www.cannonschool.org

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 â&#x20AC;˘ W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

education continued

CMS: At a Glance Schools

Students

Total number of schools Elementary schools Middle schools High schools Special programs New schools opened in 2007-2008

167 95 32 31 9 7

Total number of students enrolled (excludes Pre-K) 132,281 Pre-kindergarten 3,291 Kindergarten-grade 5 65,455 Grades 6-8 29,456 Grades 9-12 37,370 Self-contained Exceptional Children* 2,837 Limited English Proficient* 17,035

14 49

*Special education students, Exceptional Children and Limited English Proficient are included in each grade level as indicated above.

Magnet Schools Number of magnet-school programs Number of magnet schools

Graduates Total number of 2007 graduates Percentage of 2007 graduates who took the SAT Top 10% of 2007 CMS graduates – average SAT score Top 10% of students in state Top 10% of students in nation

6,587 67 % 1,778 1,735 1,757

Student Ethnic Distribution American Indian/multiracial Asian African-American Hispanic White

4% 4% 42 % 15 % 35 %

Diversity in CMS Scholarships Received by CMS Students (06-07) Academic/Althletic Students earning scholarships

$56.3 million 2,444

Native languages spoken by students in CMS 120 Countries represented in CMS 151 Students enrolled in ESL 12,443

Child Nutrition Employees Total number of employees Total number of full-time teachers Total number of student support staff Total number of administrative/office staff Total number of certified teachers Total number of teachers with advanced degrees Total number of teachers with national board certification

17,061 8,860 7,283 918 8,860 2,819 1050

Breakfasts served daily Lunches served daily Percentage of 2007-2008 students who qualify for free or reduced lunch

Meal Cost Pre-kindergarten breakfast/$1.00 & lunch/$1.75 Elementary, middle, high school breakfast/$1.25 & lunch/$2.00 Adult breakfast & lunch/a la carte

25,000 106,000 47.2 %

Because choices vary greatly, parents who are interested in this route for their children will want to research the options. Consider the needs and interests of your child and your family. As you review information from schools, consider the following: • Is the school co-ed? • Is there an emphasis on the arts? • What is the average class size? • What types of extracurricular activities are offered? • What about transportation to and from the facility? • Is there a dress code? • What about parental involvement • Is religion part of the curriculum? • What are the teaching techniques • How is discipline handled? • What is the cultural diversity of the school • What are the tuition and fees, and are scholarships available? Additional information on private schools and how to select an independent school, visit the North Carolina Association of Independent Schools at www.ncais.org or the North Carolina Division of Non-Public Education online at www.ncdnpe.org. For a comprehensive list of private and charter schools within the city of Charlotte, visit www.charlottechamber.com or call 704.378.1300. For additional information on tuition and enrollment openings, contact individual schools directly.

REACHING EVEN HIGHER In addition to public and private secondary schools, Charlotte offers a wide variety of postsecondary educational opportunities. Whether you’re seeking an undergraduate or graduate degree, training for career advancement, or enrichment courses through continuing education, you’ll find schools to meet your needs. Besides traditional weekday programs, many institutions offer evening or weekend programs for adult students with full-time jobs.

OU DID Y

? W O KN

is arlotte le, Ch ty, N.C., p o e p il un nds u deta urg Co For yo Mecklenb tes, 44 seco inu d in s, locate rees, 13 m 80 degree g d e n st d a e 5 e at 3 onds w latitud north tes, 45 sec et above e nu 50 mi e, at 749 f d u t i e g v l. lon sea le

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

A list of the institutions in the area is below. Schools in bold are Charlotte Chamber members. Art Institute of Charlotte Belmont Abbey College Brookstone College of Business Carolinas College of Health Sciences Central Piedmont Community College Charlotte School of Law Davidson College ECPI College of Technology Gardner-Webb University at Charlotte Gaston College Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary ITT Technical Institute Johnson & Wales University Johnson C. Smith University Keller School of Management and DeVry University Kings College Lee University Mercy School of Nursing Mitchell Community College Montreat College New Life Theological Seminary N.C. Center for Applied Textiles Pfeiffer University at Charlotte Queens University of Charlotte Reformed Theological Seminary Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Southern Evangelical Seminary Southern Piedmont Community College Stanly Community College Strayer University Union - PSCE at Charlotte University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of Phoenix USC – Lancaster USC Professional MBA Program Wake Forest University – Charlotte MBA Programs Wingate University Winthrop University York Technical College

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

“Your Peace of Mind” Here are 10 more reasons why Dan King’s One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating will make you smile today: 1. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee 2. Drug Free, Background Checked Technicians 3. Always on Time... Or You Don’t Pay A Dime!® 4. Convenience - You Choose Your Appointment Time 5. 24 Hour Service Available 6. Up Front Straight Forward Pricing 7. Saturday & Sunday At No Additional Charge 8. Senior Citizens Discounts 9. 2 Year Guarantee on All Repairs 10. Simple, Easy Financing Available

ARE YOU THROWING MONEY AWAY? Did you know thousands of cubic feet of dirty air pass through your air conditioner every day? When your coils are dirty, your A/C or Heat Pump has to work harder and harder to cool your home and this puts a giant strain on your compressor. As a result, the dirt can not only increase your electric bill by 30 to 40 percent but also cut the life span of your system in half.

SO CALL TODAY!

704-814-7283 or 704-814-SAVE www.OneHourAir.com

QUALITY OF LIFE p l a n y o u r f re e t i m e

hether you prefer the hustle and bustle of city life or the peace and quiet of a suburban neighborhood ... an evening with the Charlotte Symphony or riding backward down the rapids at the U.S. National Whitewater Center ... rooting for your kid’s soccer team or watching very large professional athletes battle it out ... eating a hamburger and fries or dining on exotic cuisine...dancing until the wee hours of the morning or snuggling by the fire at home ... Charlotte is the place for you. The following section offers a sampling of activities and resources to enjoy Charlotte’s high quality of life. More complete listings are available at charlottesgotalot.com, findyourcenter.com and charlottecultureguide.com. You can also visit Info! Charlotte and the Visitors Info Center to gather brochures and ideas.

61 62 62 66 66 66 67 68 69

Professional Sports College Sports

RESOURCES

Outdoor Recreation & Fitness Arts & Culture Dining & Nightlife Day Trips Wildlife Must See Cities Annual Events

DID KN YOU

OW ?

And r Unit ew Jack ed S son, just t sout ates, w ninth pr h e a bord st of as born esident er, in of C wag on Marc harlotte the Wax the eaf o h h n 1 t 5 he N aws, riend , 176 .C ly 7 exac feud ov . Both s ./S.C. t t bir thpla er Jacks ates on’s ce.

PROFESSIONAL SPORTS Cats and sports seem to go hand in hand in Charlotte. The NFL’s Carolina Panthers and the NBA’s Charlotte Bobcats both proudly and graciously compete in front of thousands of adoring fans. Carolina Panthers supporters are delighted with the $187-million state-of-the-art facility that can seat up to 73,258 excited fans. The Panthers’ claims to fame include reaching the Super Bowl in 2003 and reaching three NFC Championship games in the franchise’s first 11 years. The 2003 Super Bowl journey earned the Panthers the nickname of “Cardiac Cats,” which has stuck with them throughout the seasons. This young football team has great potential with strong new recruits and a wide, growing fan base.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Baseball – Charlotte Knights (AAA) www.charlotteknights.com Basketball – Charlotte Bobcats (NBA) www.nba.com/bobcats Football – Carolina Panthers (NFL) www.panthers.com Golf – Wachovia Championship www.wachoviachampionship.com Hockey – Charlotte Checkers (ECHL) www.gocheckers.com NASCAR – Lowe’s Motor Speedway www.lowesmotorspeedway.com Soccer – Charlotte Eagles/Lady Eagles (USL) www.charlotteeagles.com

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

quality of life continued

The Bobcats’ future also looks bright. Founded in 2004, the Charlotte Bobcats broke new ground with the first African American majority owner – Robert Johnson, founder of Black Entertainment Television. The Bobcats play in the $264-million Time Warner Cable Arena before 19,026 energetic fans. Hockey in Charlotte has come to life in the last few years as the ECHL’s Charlotte Checkers has skated past opponents. The Checkers have recently moved into the spotlight, having set a record high attendance in 2007. With a growing city and optimism in the air, the Checkers look forward to many more wins to come. NASCAR is quickly racing to the pinnacle of professional sports in the United States, behind only the NFL in ratings. Charlotte is considered the birthplace of this quickly growing sport. Lowe’s Motor Speedway, the largest sports facility in the Southeast, brings fans from all over the region to Charlotte. Lowe’s Motor Speedway hosts three series: the Nextel Cup, Busch Series and the Craftsman Truck Series. Charlotte recently became the home of the NASCAR Hall of Fame, a $154.5-million dollar facility in Uptown Charlotte. Baseball and soccer are not left behind. The Charlotte Knights, a Chicago White Sox AAA affiliate, play in a $15-million, 10,000-seat facility opened in 1990 just south of the border in Fort Mill, S.C. Work is underway to bring the Knights to Uptown Charlotte in a few years. Charlotte soccer teams include both a men’s team, the Charlotte Eagles, and a ladies’ team, the Charlotte Lady Eagles. The Eagles play in the A league USL (United Soccer Leagues), while the lady eagles play in the W leagues. In 2001, their first year of play, the Lady Eagles won the W-2 Championship.

OU Y DID W?

O N K

as ew e hom y ston r e r d o st n t e a s .5lex old h A . The 2 unty’s lotte a i k r e o 4 Cha Hez 177 he c The ted in se is t t of the us in e u r l o a p mp h com tation ow is p tory ca s . n n i a pl e and f H arlotte mo hom useu ast Ch e M

Finally, Charlotte gives a strong showing in golf as well. Charlotte hosts the Wachovia Championship, part of the PGA tour. Played early in May at the Quail Hollow Country Club, this championship hosts many of the world’s best players, including Tiger Woods, Vijay Singh and David Toms. The course is considered to be one of the toughest on the tour.

RESOURCES CIAA Men’s Basketball Tournament www.ciaatournament.org Davidson College www.davidson.edu Johnson C. Smith University www.jcsu.edu Meineke Car Care Bowl www.meinekecarcarebowl.com Queens University www.queens.edu UNC Charlotte www.charlotte49ers.com Wingate University www.wingate.edu Winthrop University www.winthrop.edu

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

COLLEGE SPORTS The Charlotte area is home to three ambitious, up-and-coming men’s basketball teams – the Davidson Wildcats, the Winthrop Eagles and the UNC Charlotte 49ers. The 2008-2009 season looks strong for all three teams. The Wildcats had an amazing NCAA tournament showing this year, defeating the Gonzaga Bulldogs, Georgetown Hoyas and Wisconsin Badgers to advance to the Elite Eight. Stephan Curry, son of former NBA player Dell Curry, was second-leading scorer nationally among college freshmen last year. He won more awards this year, including being picked as the Most Outstanding Player of the Midwest Region of the 2008 NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship Tournament and being named to the Associated Press’ All-America Second Team. The Charlotte 49ers’ program is also looking up as men’s basketball Head Coach Bobby Lutz announced that 6’ 6” forward Shamari Spears will transfer into the 49ers program from Boston College. Spears was the third-leading scorer for the Boston College Eagles, averaging 9.6 points per game. Four straight Big South Championships shows promise of yet another successful year. The Winthrop Eagles have unlimited potential with their two new prospects – Matt Morgan and Cameron Stanley. The Eagles believe that these players will help them to build on their past success. Finally, the CIAA men’s basketball tournament returns in Charlotte in 2009. More than simply a tournament, this event brings a wide variety of entertainment and well-known celebrities to town.

OUTDOOR RECREATION & FITNESS Thanks to our mild climate, golf, disc or “frisbee” golf, boating, tennis, running, horseback riding and other outdoor recreational activities are popular year-round activities in the Charlotte area. The area’s many gardens, parks and greenways also remain well-used throughout the year. North and South Carolina are two of the nation’s most revered golf destinations. Golf in the Carolinas includes the rolling parkland courses of the piedmont, spectacular mountain tracks and soothing beach courses. Pinehurst, with more than 30 golf courses, is just a two-hour drive and is one of the nation’s top golf destinations. For more information on golf right here in Charlotte, check out the Visitor Info Center's online database of area attractions.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

quality of life continued

RESOURCES Carowinds Amusement Park www.carowinds.com Charlotte Disc Golf Club www.charlottedgc.com Clubs and Organizations Database www.plcmc.org/services Crowders Mountain State Park www.ncparks.gov/Visit/main.php Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens www.dsbg.com Kings Mountain National Military Park www.nps.gov/kimo Latta Plantation www.lattaplantation.org Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation www.parkandrec.com North Carolina State Parks www.ils.unc.edu/parkproject/ncparks.html UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens gardens.uncc.edu U.S. National Whitewater Center www.usnwc.org Visitor Info Center www.charlottesgotalot.com YMCA of Greater Charlotte www.ymcacharlotte.org

The Catawba River and its system of manmade lakes provide many activities for water lovers. The river is home to the U.S. National Whitewater Center, which serves as training grounds for Olympic athletes as well as a busy recreation center for the public. Located just 30 minutes north of the city, Lake Norman has 520 miles of shoreline and is the state’s largest man-made lake. Mountain Island Lake and Lake Wylie lie south of Lake Norman on the Catawba. Sailing, wind surfing, power boating and fishing are just a few of the activities to be enjoyed on this water system. Athletic associations for children and adults organize team sports including football, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, swimming, tennis and rugby. To find athletic organizations, check Mecklenburg Neighbors in the Sunday edition of The Charlotte Observer. You can also find a searchable database of clubs and organizations in the “Services” section of the Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County’s Web site at www.plcmc.org/services. If you like physical activity but would rather not do it outdoors, you still have many options. The YMCA of Greater Charlotte is one of the largest YMCA facilities in the country with 19 facilities and more than 150,000 members. It offers a wide array of activities for members of all ages. The Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation department also operates several indoor facilities, including Ray’s Splash Planet (a family-oriented water park), the Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center (MAC) in uptown Charlotte, several fitness centers, and several recreation centers with indoor gymnasiums. And finally, Charlotte is home to a wide variety of private gyms, indoor rock walls, inline and ice hockey rinks, and more.

Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary www.winghavengardens.com

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

POWER LUNCHES OR SAILS MEETINGS

and everything in between!

INDIVIDUAL & CORPORATE MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE Special Corporate Membership Program

Meeting & Event Facilities z Corporate Outing & Event Packages

704-892-9858 /

WWW.PENINSULAYACHT.COM

quality of life continued

GETTING AROUND Maps of the area are available in Info! Charlotte. Below are the public transportation options.

LYNX November 2007 marked a very important first for Charlotte with the opening of the LYNX Blue Line, Charlotte’s light rail service, which runs between uptown Charlotte and 1-485 at South Boulevard. This 9.6-mile route has 15 stations, connects with seven park and ride locations, and is timed to connect with bus routes in the area. Easy to use, consistent and congestion free, the train has served more than 2 million people since its opening. This convenient addition to Charlotte is great for getting to work, shopping, dining or entertainment anywhere along the South Boulevard corridor.

Hours of Operation Weekdays: 5:27-1:26 a.m. Saturdays: 5:55-1:26 a.m. Sundays: 6:39-12:12 a.m. Time between trains Weekday rush: 7.5 minutes Weekday during non-rush hours: 15 minutes Weekday evenings: 30 minutes Weekend during the day: 20 minutes Weekend late night: 30 minutes

Finally, Crowders Mountain State Park is a short, 40-minute drive away in Kings Mountain, N.C. Hike to the top for a magnificent view of the Charlotte skyline. Fishing and boating around the nearby lake is also available.

ARTS AND CULTURE Art and culture lies at the heart of worldclass cities, and in Charlotte, that heart is very much alive and vibrant. Charlotteans heavily support arts and culture in the belief that its benefits overflow into business, education and the economy. The Charlotte arts community supports 2,100 jobs and contributes a vast $130 million to the local economy. More than 65,000 local cultural events attract 700,000 visitors from outside Mecklenburg County. A major champion for the cultural community is the Arts and Science Council of CharlotteMecklenburg (ASC). The ASC is a non-profit organization that offers the community many services, including grants, events and programs. The success of the organization is evident through the $14 million awarded annually to arts education, cultural organizations and neighborhood cultural projects. The ASC provides a comprehensive, online directory of performances, ongoing events, attractions and venues at www.CharlotteCultureGuide.com.

DINING AND NIGHTLIFE

Gold Rush The Gold Rush is a free service that operates only in the Center City from Monday to Friday.

Hours of Operation: Red Line (up and down Trade Street) 6:45 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. with 7 minute frequency 6:30-10 p.m. with 12 minute frequency Orange line (up and down Tryon Street) 7 a.m.-6 p.m. with 7 minute frequency

Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) CATS bus system has been a part of Charlotte since 1995. Today CATS operates the largest transit system between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta. Each year more than 18 million passengers travel the more than 30 local routes and 12 express routes provided by CATS. With the ever-rising prices of gas CATS is an economical way to save money and help the environment.

Hours of Operation: Monday-Saturday: 4:49-2 a.m. Sunday: 5:25-2 a.m.

Charlotte has dining and nightlife choices to suite every taste. The following Web sites can help you plan your culinary adventures and evenings on the town.

Carolina Nightlife www.carolinanightlife.com This site provides information on bars, clubs and restaurants in North and South Carolina. Information is grouped by cities to make it easy to find something local.

Charlotte Center City Partners www.charlottecentercity.org This informational site provides everything you could ever need to know about the urban core of Charlotte, including keeping you up to date with a calendar of events.

Charlotte Observer www.charlotte.com/living

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Full of all things entertainment, this edgy, weekly newspaper and Web site makes sure Charlotte residents are kept up-to-date on musical events, featured places for food and drink, arts, film and more.

Elevate www.elevatecharlotte.com Elevate offers an informative and easy-to-navigate Web site and mini-magazine that connects Charlotteans to events in the area. (When we say “mini,” we mean it literally. It can fit your jacket pocket. Look for it on stands in restaurants and clubs.)

Find Your Center www.findyourcenter.com Information on dining, nightlife and culture can be found here. Categories are listed for types of food and nightlife, so it is easy for everyone to find what they are craving.

Historic South End www.historicsouthend.com Here is your link to what is happening in Historic South End, from funky gallery crawls to its annual street festival.

NoDa historic arts district www.noda.org Find information on restaurants and entertainment in the NoDa historic arts district. Don’t miss the NoDa gallery crawl every first and third Friday from 6 to 9:30 p.m.

Charlotte’s Got a Lot www.charlottesgotalot.com “The official travel resource for Charlotte” introduces visitors and new residents to overnight accommodations, area attractions, events, entertainment and more.

DAY TRIPS

In addition to restaurant reviews, The Charlotte Observer offers information on farmers markets and pick-your-own farms, recipes, meal planners and more.

For more information, route maps, and fares for any of these modes of transportation visit www.ridetransit.org.

Creative Loafing charlotte.creativeloafing.com

Charlotte is ideally positioned between the coast and the mountains. Several popular destinations in the mountains can be reached within a two or three-hour drive, and the beaches near Charleston, S.C., can be reached in a little more than three hours. Below are some resources to help you plan a delightful day trip.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

COOL OFF IN THE MOUNTAINS

Chimney Rock Park, Chimney Rock, N.C. The Appalachian Mountains offer much to see www.chimneyrockpark.com

and do – hiking, camping, biking, sightseeing, shopping and more.

Biltmore Estate, Asheville, N.C. www.biltmore.com America’s largest home is just a short drive away. While visiting the Biltmore Estate be sure to see the gardens, winery, restaurants and shops.

Blue Ridge Parkway, N.C. www.blueridgeparkway.org This scenic stretch of highway makes for a perfect Sunday drive.

OU ? Y s DID Wecklenbtuiorgneor f

O N K

, ra 775 tM tha Decla 10, 1 a m e y i l g a a r u s cl nbu on M itish r r rian ckle f ”) isto n Me k Dec from B tion o y h l c a l loca eir ow “Me dence eclar orted e e h D p Som ned t ce (th depen ional ent re royed t sig nden eir in e nat cum des do th th fire epe Ind laring before e. The when me of dec year ndenc 1800 on ho in r. tati epe Ind ished e plan keepe n h a t its v

Pack a picnic and head to this park which offers hiking trails for all ages, a 404-foot waterfall, a variety of special events and much more.

Grandfather Mountain, Linville, N.C. www.grandfather.com This is the highest peak in the Blue Ridge mountain range, a subrange of the Appalachians.

EDUCATIONAL DAYS Spice up learning with expeditions to historic locations. These trips will expand your knowledge while a great time is had by all.

Linville Caverns, Linville, N.C. www.linvillecaverns.com Explore the inside of a mountain. The caverns present naturally-formed underground art and carvings made by flowing water.

Reed Gold Mine, Midland, N.C. www.nchistoricsites.org

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, N.C. and Tenn. www.nps.gov/grsm “America’s most visited national park.”

This is the site of the first documented gold find in the United States.

Pisgah National Forest, N.C. www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc

Old Salem, Winston-Salem, N.C. www.oldsalem.org

Pisgah is the home of Cold Mountain, the setting for the eponymous best-selling novel by Charles Frazier. Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the Appalachian chain, lies just outside Pisgah’s boundary

America’s most comprehensive history attraction.

Tweetsie Railroad, Blowing Rock, N.C. www.tweetsie.com “A place for old-fashioned fun.”

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Historic Brattonsville, McConnells, S.C. www.chmuseums.org This attraction offers a step back into the 18th and 19th century lifestyles of our early settlers and the workings of a southern plantation.

Lost Colony, Roanoke Island, N.C. www.thelostcolony.org America’s longest running outdoor drama chronicles the mysterious fate of the first colonists of Roanoke Island.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

quality of life continued

:KHUH +LVWRU\ +DV $ +RPH

WILDLIFE A day at the zoo will open your eyes to new creatures and the ways of the wild.

North Carolina Zoological Park, Asheboro, N.C. www.nczoo.org Take a stroll through this zoo with 500 acres of animals in their natural habitats. The N.C. Zoological Park features everything from polar bears to local endangered species.

1/3Sq C

Riverbanks Zoological Park and Botanical Gardens, Columbia, S.C.. www.riverbanks.org

Charlotte Museum of History

If animals arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t your thing, how about 70 acres of beautiful vegetation? They have it all.

(museum section)

MUST SEE CITIES

&ROOHFWLRQV 0XVHXPÂ&#x2021;/LYLQJ +LVWRU\ 7RXUV

+H]HNLDK $OH[DQGHU +RPHVLWH 6KDPURFN 'ULYH Â&#x2021; &KDUORWWH 1& 3 Â&#x2021; ZZZ FKDUORWWHPXVHXP RUJ

Offering more than a full day of fun, these cities are sure to provide all you are looking for when it comes to shopping, exploring, learning or simply relaxing.

Charleston, S.C. www.charlestoncvb.com Downtown Charleston offers numerous tours of the historic homes and cemetaries, as well as dining, shopping and entertainment. Nearby are numerous beaches and resorts for playing in the sand and surf.

1-800-637-3148

sales@telware.com

x x x x x x

Business Telephone Systems Voice Over IP Voicemail / Auto Attendant Structured Cabling Systems Fiber Optics

Myrtle Beach, S.C. www.myrtlebeachinfo.com The Myrtle Beach area offers dozens of beaches and hundreds of entertainment options.

The Village of Pinehurst, N.C. www.villageofpinehurst.org

Loudspeaker Paging

Of course, golfers will think Pinehurst is heaven on earth. But even non-golfers can enjoy a day relaxing at the resort.

Business Solutions

www.telware.com For more resources to plan an excursion, visit the N.C. Division of Tourism (www.visitnc.com) and and S.C. Division of Tourism (www.discoversouthcarolina.com).

DID YOU

KNOW?

Charlotteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first foray into auto ra cing took place on Octobe r 24, 1924, when the first Charlotte Speedw ay opened on th e townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s south side. The wooden track ho sted a 250-mile race on October 24, 1924 , and drew nearly 50,000 spectators.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 â&#x20AC;˘ W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

ANNUAL EVENTS

The Charlotte area is home to festivals and events that celebrate the arts, our community’s cultural diversity and more. Following is a sampling of special events. Mark your calendar now!

Carolinas Carrousel Parade

Festival in the Park

Yiasou Greek Festival

www.carolinasthanksgivingparade.org

www.festivalinthepark.org

www.greekorthodoxclt.org

The Carolinas Carrousel Thanksgiving Day Parade and Festival is held annually in Charlotte.

Held in late September, Festival in the Park includes arts and crafts, live entertainment, activities for children, and plenty of food, all displayed in the inviting surroundings of the lake at Freedom Park.

The Yiasou festival, held each September, celebrates Greek culture, including arts, crafts and entertainment. The selections of Greek food are always crowd pleasers.

Latin American Festival

UNC Charlotte International Festival

600 Festival Association events www.600festival.com The 600 Festival Association sponsors several events each May to celebrate the Coca-Cola 600. Speed Street, held Uptown in late May, turns several blocks of Tryon Street into a center filled with musical entertainment, interactive games, NASCAR driver appearances, show cars, simulators, food and children’s activities.

Charlotte Shout! www.charlotteshout.org Charlotte Shout! held each September, is a month-long celebration of art, culture, and community, incorporating more than 200 performances and events in more than 40 venues throughout the Charlotte region.

www.festivallatinoamericano.org The Latin American Festival is an annual a one-day fiesta, attracting more than 15,000 individuals to the lawn of the Mint Museum of Art for dancing, music, art and food native to 20 countries in Latin America.

www.uncc.edu/ifest UNC Charlotte’s annual International Festival held in late September features the sights, sounds and tastes of Charlotte’s international community.

Carolina Renaissance Festival

Loch Norman Highland Games

www.royalfaires.com/carolina

www.ruralhillfarm.org Held in April in historic Rural Hill, just south of Lake Norman, this celebration of the region’s strong Scottish heritage includes games, music, exhibits, food and more.

This event is held off Poplar Tent Road between Davidson and Concord for seven weekends each autumn.

Novello Festival www.novellofestival.net

Art & Soul of South End www.artandsoulofsouthend.com This two-day arts fest began in the spring of 2002 as a grassroots festival produced by the galleries and businesses on the 1500 block of Camden Road. Held annually every spring, this street festival features the work of hundreds of local artists in a variety of media, a children’s area and several music stages featuring local talent.

Charlotte Chamber Signature Events www.charlottechamber.com/events The Chamber presents several signature events throughout the year – some that offer family fun and others that offer networking with representatives from the Chamber's more than 3,700 member companies. Visit the Web site for more information.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Held each October since 1991, the Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County’s award-winning Novello Festival of Reading is a celebration of reading and books including presentations by best selling authors and other readingrelated activities.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

ny article about shopping in the Charlotte region must begin with SouthPark and Concord Mills, both run by Simon Property Group. SouthPark is home to everything from high-end retail chains to one-of-a-kind boutiques. And Concord Mills is the number one tourist attraction in North Carolina. The Charlotte Chamber SouthPark Chapter recently embarked on an effort to brand the SouthPark area nationally as a destination for those who love fine dining and fabulous shopping, as well as a wide range of residential choices and a thriving business district. Two of South Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest additions, Morrison Place and Piedmont Town Center, feature the ultimate in luxury living with the added bonus of fine restaurants and specialty shops on the ground floor.

the

by Brandeis J. Price

Queen

SHOPS SouthPark Mall, for which the area is named, is home to Louis Vuitton, Nordstrom’s, Belk, Neiman Marcus, Hermès, Burberry, Kate Spade, Lacoste, Tiffany, Apple and much, much more. And for the hard-core shopping addicts, The Residence at SouthPark offers apartment living with easy pedestrian access to the mall. “Elegance Defined” perfectly describes Phillip’s Place. Spend a Saturday morning learning to prepare a delectable meal of the freshest seafood at one of Upstream’s demonstration cooking classes. After your appetite has been satiated, wander into some of Charlotte’s finest clothing boutiques. Stylish home furnishings are plentiful at Smith & Hawken, Bedside Manor and Restoration Hardware. One of the best places to people watch is at an outdoor table at Dean & Deluca Wine Bar, or you

can select an array of gourmet delights from Dean & Deluca to enjoy a picnic for an evening of music at nearby Symphony Park. Concord Mills, off Interstate 85 at Exit 49, is designed to mimic the layout of the nearby speedway. More than 200 retailers, consisting mostly of outlet stores, a NASCAR-themed fun park and a 24-screen AMC theatre are all here. If “the great outdoors” is your thing, then Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World is for you! (You ladies can leave your hubbies there while you check out the other shops). And you can surprise the NASCAR enthusiast with a gift certificate to a driving school at Lowe’s Motor Speedway, located just down the road from the Mills.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

Beyond those two powerhouses of shopping, Charlotte’s neighborhoods differ vastly in style and taste, but each has much to offer. You’ll find that shopping is fabulous throughout the Queen City. Finding the best shops can be a daunting, especially if you’re new to town. But they’re out there waiting for your discovery. Below are a few suggestions. Venture out and explore the city. Meander. You never know what adventure awaits.

Happy shopping!

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

Rack Room Shoes is proud to call Charlotte home.

From Charlotte we operate over 375 stores across the country,

providing footwear at affordable prices for the

For five years we have celebrated our customers through the Models Wanted Program. Our exclusive program provides our customers with the opportunity to be featured in our advertising, seasonal displays and promotional materials used in our stores. Doug - Charlotte, NC

entire family. Rack Room Shoes carries name brand shoes including Nike, Skechers, Dockers, New Balance, Rocket Dog, Puma and many more.

Rack Room Shoes is also

committed to serving the communities it does business in through our partnership with Shoes That Fit and internationally through Word and Deed. To learn more about Rack Room Shoes visit us at rackroomshoes.com

8310 Technology Drive, Charlotte, North Carolina 28262 704.501.4777

To find a store location near you go to rackroomshoes.com

excellent choice for educational children’s toys. The new Bechtler Museum of Art, set to open in 2009, may also offer unique finds in its gift shop. Panthers and Bobcats sports memorabilia also make excellent gifts.

shopping continued

CENTER CITY Uptown, or Center City, is not a true shopping destination – yet. It is a haven for the banking industry and the culture, dining and nightlife scene. But with the growing number of residents calling Uptown home, retail is only a matter of time. Michael Smith and his colleagues at Charlotte Center City Partners are diligently working to lure several categories of retail to the area. Smith said, “Charlotte Center City Partners is committed to this effort over the next decade, and we have already begun working with our major employers, retailers and developers.” So stay tuned for further developments. In the mean time, The Shops at Founders Hall, Overstreet Mall and Latta Arcade are all convenient for the uptown executive. Although mostly restaurants and services, the occasional boutique can be found. The Blossom Shop’s fresh, floral bouquets are magnificent works of art. Museum gift shops are excellent places for unique gifts. The Mint Museum of Craft+Design’s and The Levine Museum of the New South carry objets d’art from local artists. Discovery Place is an

SOUTH CHARLOTTE Historic South End is a Mecca for design enthusiasts. Situated just south of Uptown, its streets abound with art galleries, antiques shops and warehouses full of furniture at wholesale prices. The Lynx Blue Line runs through the heart of South End. Metropolitan at Midtown is a new mixed-use development located at the intersection of Charlottetown and South Kings Drive. A much needed destination for residents of the Center City and ring neighborhoods. Its tenants include Target, the Home Depot Design Center, Trader Joe’s Marshall’s and Best Buy. The Home Depot Design Center is unlike any Home Depot you’ve ever seen. It is immense without a warehouse feel, and its target demographic is women. Not a bad idea. This is the place to go when remodeling your kitchen or bath. The Kings Drive Farmers Market, on the corner of Kings Drive and Morehead Street just down the street from Metropolitan, is an excellent place to go for the freshest seasonal produce. Locally

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

grown silver queen corn, sweet-as-sugar watermelons, vine-ripe tomatoes, South Carolina peaches and more. Elizabeth is home to Presbyterian Hospital, Carolinas Medical Center-Mercy and medical offices galore. There you will also find the Junior League Warehouse with its ever-changing assortment of clothing items. All Junior League members must donate items once a year to meet quota, so one can find quality clothes. The money generated supports local charities – a good cause is always a plus! In the heart of Dilworth, numerous of interesting shops, restaurants and coffee hangouts line East Blvd. Each September, the Greek Orthodox Church holds its annual Greek Festival, and thousands turn out for the food and festivities. Paper Skyscraper is an enjoyable place to spend an hour perusing the outstanding selection of greeting cards, stationery, books and gifts. Myers Park and Eastover are two of Charlotte’s most affluent neighborhoods. Many streets are lined with lofty oak trees and gorgeous, historic homes. Designer boutiques and antique shops, along Selwyn Avenue and Providence Road, satisfy the most sophisticated tastes.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

Park Road Shopping Center, on the corner of Park Road and Woodlawn Road, is one of Charlotte’s oldest, extant shopping centers and has tons of character. Blackhawk Hardware is the place to go when Home Depot or Lowe’s simply will not do! Find unusual decorative drawer pulls, hardware, unique kitchen and bath accessories, and other household items. Cotswold’s main shopping center, Cotswold Village Shops, located at the intersection of Sharon Amity and Randolph Roads, is an established, neighborhood spot for everyday purchases, with the exception of David’s Ltd. For more than 30 years, David’s has brought a distinct level of sophistication to the Charlotte jewelry scene. The shopping center is also home to Pigtails & Crewcuts, a hair salon that caters exclusively to children. Residential communities and office parks along I-485’s southern outer loop have spurred the growth of retail establishments. Avoid the expanse from South Boulevard to Ballantyne during rush hour. Otherwise you will waste precious shopping time! Pineville’s retail scene thrives with Carolina Place Mall and distinctive furniture showrooms. Historic Pineville is a quaint section to peruse antique shops for beautiful estate pieces. Spend the afternoon wandering the aisles of Black Lion’s enormous showroom. More than 150 individual retailers have set up vignettes showcasing their wares: upscale gifts, home accents, furniture, art, children’s items, interior design and more. It’s a fantastic place not only to purchase items, but also to get wonderful ideas. It’s hard to imagine that a decade ago, Ballantyne Corporate Park, Ballantyne Resort & Spa, and Ballantyne Village were non-existent. Ballantyne is becoming a city within a city. Residents of the Ballantyne area can leave their cars at home and walk to fashionable shops, savor a glass of Bordeaux, eat dinner al fresco, and/or watch a foreign film at the theater. Stonecrest at Piper Glen is quite the popular destination, especially in the summer when people gather around the fountains to eat ice cream and listen to live music. It has a good mix of stores, and the independent ones are noteworthy. Blakeney is a new retail hot spot located south of Stonecrest on Rea Road. This multi-use office/retail destination is meeting the needs of this area’s growth explosion. Pay attention to Marshall’s Home Goods – fabulous finds for the home at discounted prices. The Atlanta-based, Swoozie’s “Presents, Paper, Printing, & Pizzazz” is one-stop

Choose your style. Pick your color. Get it in days, not weeks. Decorating made even easier. Only at Rooms To Go!

PEAR

CARDINAL

ESPRESSO

PEAT

HYDRA

PINE

6 BEAUTIFUL COLORS TO SUIT YOUR STYLE! THE METROPOLIS COLLECTION.Combine the Sofa, Chaise and Armless Loveseat to create a cozy sectional or separate the pieces to create a contemporary livingroom. MicroFiber Plush fabric.

WHY SHOP ROOMS TO GO? WE GIVE YOU home fashions at a great price. Up to date styles on quality furniture at prices you can afford.

WE WANT YOU TO BE COMFORTABLE when you shop. Our sales associates are trained to assist you, not annoy you.

WE MAKE IT EASY to shop with our original custom room packages. Great value by the piece, greater value by the room.

UNBEATABLE LOW PRICES EVERY DAY...No phony sales or fake 50% off discounts.

Can’t visit our Charlotte showroom? Shop on our website roomstogo.com Affordable delivery from Florida to Maine. America’s largest inventory of the furniture you want.

3 Locations to serve you in Charlotte: Charlotte Carolina Place Mall (704) 541-2881 Charlotte Independence Boulevard (704) 563-3350 Charlotte University Place (704) 593-0444

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

BELK.COM

shopping continued

shopping for the perfect party. Choose from a variety of invitations and have them printed. Don’t forget party favors, cocktail napkins, tasty nibbles and thank-you notes. It’s all here!

NORTH CHARLOTTE NoDa is a funky little neighborhood full of art galleries, inexpensive eateries, wine bars, and trendy shops. Gallery crawls occur the first and third Friday of each month, showcasing the creations of local artists. The University City area (near UNC Charlotte) will soon be home to IKEA, the Swedish-based furniture and home furnishings company. It will open a 345,000-square-foot store in 2009. The Charlotte Antiques & Collectibles Show at Metrolina Expo (off Interstate 77 at Exit 16) is held the first weekend of every month. A definite must! The April and November shows are deemed the “Antiques Spectacular.” More than 1,500 dealers sell antiques, sterling silver, china, paintings, vintage jewels, Oriental rugs and other collectibles. A lot is junk, but a lot more is treasure!

Northlake Mall (off Interstate 77 at Exit 18) has the standard assortment of retail chains, but also a few gems you won’t want to miss: Secret Ingredients, a gourmet specialty store, and the ultra chic Z Gallerie, a more upscale version of Pottery Barn. And Anthropologie’s storefront at Northlake is much larger than one typically finds for this chain. Birkdale Village (off Interstate 77 at Exit 25) is another well-done conglomeration of apartments, retail shops and dining establishments. Its outdoor, main street ambiance provides a perfect weekend excursion. Walking from boutique to boutique or sitting at an outdoor café to while away the afternoon is such a pleasure! And bring along the kids to play in the splash fountain.

EAST CHARLOTTE Plaza-Midwood, a revitalized neighborhood, has a number of eclectic shops. The Clearing House South, Inc. on Central Avenue is the ultimate place to search for consigned antiques, china, silver, paintings, framed art, glassware, in top-notch condition that changes frequently! Each item has three dates with prices, the longer it sits, the less it is!

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

While not a top shopping destination at the moment, Eastland Mall was the mall in its heyday. The city is working to revitalize the area and envisions a destination for arts, culture, recreation, dining, living and shopping. So stay tuned for further development on this front as well. If there’s anything you should know about your new city, it’s that when Charlotte sets its mind to something, positive results are inevitable. Brandeis Price has been a Charlottean for eight years. She can be reached at brandeisprice@yahoo.com.

DID YOU

KNOW?

e led by ritish forc leave War, a B to ry g a n in o d ti ci e Revolu rlotte, de . Cornwallis During th wallis held Cha ls ca lo y b rn s Co and ttack General ornets,” noying a nest of h l, the uring an eritable a after end “v se a ty e n tt cou harlo ent uck. The called C Departm ription st rg Police the desc u b d n n a le s ck e am e-Me s other n Charlott d variou rate n o a rp ia co n in g insi wn round to images a ’ nest. a hornets

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT CHARLOTTE

QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE c o m m u n i t y & re l o c a t i o n i n f o r m a t i o n AUTO REGISTRATION AND LICENSE PLATES

CHILDCARE Childcare Resources Inc. (CCRI) provides a wide variety of information to help parents and families find early learning and school-age child care services. Main phone: 704.376.6697 Child care search: 704-348-2181 Web site: www.childcareresourcesinc.org

DRIVING DRIVER’S LICENSE • Newcomers must obtain a North Carolina driver’s license within 60 days of establishing a permanent residence. • You will be required to provide proof of your full name, age and social security number; proof of liability insurance coverage; and proof of residency. • N.C. has a graduated licensing program for drivers age 15 to 18. After age 20, licenses are renewed every five years. • For a list of acceptable documentation (for proof of identity, liability coverage and residency) and DMV locations, please visit the N.C. Department of Transportation, Division of Motor Vehicles’ Web site at www.ncdot.org/dmv or call: DMV directAccess: 919.715.7000

OU Y D I D

? W O KN

is a raham Billy G angelistic t s li e v evang s to ham E wned e Billy Gra adquarter for -reno h he s li s o it p World native. T d e ea Minn ) mov tte ary Charlo tion (BGEA er being in aham Libr r t ia f G c a o e ly 1 s As 200 of th he Bil tte in ars. T he grounds e Charlo han 50 ye nt f th f o o t 7 d 0 e 0 te mor d in 2 s loca way. opene A’s campu e m fre a h BGE a r Billy G

• Newcomers must obtain an N.C. driver’s license before registering a vehicle. There are some situations under which you can use a driver’s license from another state. • Newcomers must register motor vehicles. Vehicle registrations from other states usually remain valid for 30 days, but this time period varies depending on your prior state of residence. • You must provide the title (unless the title is held by a lien holder) and a valid registration card from the state of prior registration. • Fees for private passenger vehicles include a $35 title fee and a $20 registration fee. • Registration must be renewed annually. • Vehicle must receive an annual safety and emissions inspection that costs $30. Inspection stations are usually found at service stations, car dealerships and auto repair shops.

EMERGENCIES & RELATED SERVICES Police/Fire/MEDIC (emergencies) ............................911 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (non-emergency).......................................................311 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fire Department (non-emergency).......................................................311 Children & Family Services Center ..........704.943.9400 Crime Stoppers.........................................704.334.1600 Crisis Counseling......................................704.358.2800 Dangerous Dogs .......................................................311 FBI.............................................................704.377.9200 N.C. Highway Patrol.................................919.733.7952 Mecklenburg EMS Agency.......................704.943.6000 Mental Health Information ......................704.366.6404 Poison Control ..................704.355.4000, 800.222.1222 Rape Crisis................................................704.375.9900 Shelter for Battered Women....................704.332.2513 United Way information & referral services ...........211

DRIVING RULES & REGULATIONS • Charlotte citywide speedlimit is 35 mph unless otherwise posted. Speed limit in school zones is 25 mph. Statewide speed limit is 55 mph unless otherwise posted. • Seatbelts are mandatory for all front-seat passengers. • Child restrain devices are mandatory for children less than eight years old and lighter than 80 pounds. Children between 40 and 80 pounds can be secured with a belt-positioning booster seat. They must also sit in the back seat if the vehicle has an active passenger-side air bag and a rear seat. • Children under age 16 must use a seat belt or child passenger restraint system at all times, whether in the front or back seat. Placing the shoulder belt under the child’s (or adult’s) arm or behind the back is illegal. • Vehicles must stop for school buses loading or unloading. • Drivers must burn their headlights when using windshield wipers. • Motorcyclists must wear helmets and burn head lights at all times. • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs carries severe penalties, including imprisonment, fines and the loss of driver’s license.

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

GOVERNMENT NORTH CAROLINA • North Carolina government is based on the federal structure, with executive, legislative and judicial branches located in the state capital, Raleigh. For more information on state government or services, visit www.ncgov.com.

CHARLOTTE-MECKLENBURG • The City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County are each governed by councils elected every two years in partisan elections – the Charlotte City Council and the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners. • The city manager is appointed by City Council and oversees day-to-day operations of the city. The city’s mayor works with City Council to establish general city policies. • The county manager is appointed by the Board of County Commissioners and oversees the day-to-day operations of the county. • City Council and Board of County Commissioners meetings are open to the public and televised live on cable channel 16.

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

• For all questions relating to Charlotte and Mecklenburg County government or services, visit www.charmeck.org or call: From inside Mecklenburg County........................311 From outside the county ......................704.336.7600

LIBRARY The Public Library of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County (PLCMC) operates 24 branches, including several regional libraries with advanced computer and business services and ImaginOn, an interactive learning facility with state-of-the-art technology, performance spaces, classrooms and a teen center. Most locations are equipped with WIFI access. Main phone ..............................................704.336.2725 ImaginOn...................................................704.973.2780 Online ....................................................www.plcmc.org

PETS Newcomers must obtain animal licenses for their dogs, cats and ferrets within 30 days of establishing residency. All dogs, cats and ferrets more than four months old must be vaccinated for rabies, and proof of vaccination is required to purchase a license. License fees are discounted for pets that have been neutered or spayed, and a discount is available for senior citizens. Pet owners must keep pets on a leash or within a fence, and dog owners are required to clean up after their pets.

PHILANTHROPY Charlotte is well known for its philanthropic spirit, and newcomers often find that getting involved is a great way to meet people with similar interests. In addition to helping those in need find services to help them, the United Way of Central Carolinas offers an information service to help people find volunteer opportunities to give back to the community. Cell phone callers can reach the United Way toll-free at 1-866-744-7778. United Way of Central Carolinas .............................211

AME Zion..................................................704.599.4630 Advent Christian.......................................704.545.6161 Baptist ......................................................704.375.1197 Catholic.....................................................704.370.6299 Christian & Missionary Alliance ..............704.543.0470 Church of God...........................................704.364.5003 Church of the Nazarene ...........................704.540.8300 Church of Religious Science ....................704.531.7993 Episcopal ..................................................800.448.8775 Greek Orthodox .......................................704.334.4771 Hindu Center of Charlotte........................704-607-8412 Islamic Society of Greater Charlotte........704.536.2016 Jewish ......................................................704.366.5007 Lutheran....................................................704.372.7317 Mecklenburg Ministries ...........................704.347.2404 Moravian ..................................................704.334.1381 Presbyterian (USA) ...................................704.535.9999 Seventh-Day Adventist.............................704.596.3200 Unitarian ...................................................704.549.0750 United Methodist Church .........................704.525.3395

Call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) or go to www.usps.gov to fill out a change of address form or to find the post office nearest you.

RELIGION & SPIRITUALITY Charlotte, which has more than 1,000 houses of worship, is often known as the “City of Churches.” Religious and spiritual organizations often form the nucleus of community life for Charlotte residents and offer a variety of activities and opportunities for members of all ages. And Mecklenburg Ministries coordinates interfaith activities to build understanding and cooperation across Charlotte’s diverse spiritual community. Assistance finding a spiritual community near you may be available from one of the denominational headquarters located in the area.

For help finding child care, call today! Free child care referrals from a trusted community resource Cabarrus.................(704) 786-1024 Mecklenburg..........(704) 348-2181 Union......................(704) 238-8800 www.childcareresourcesinc.org

TAXES PROPERTY TAX • Real property tax rates are based on 100 percent of the fair-market value and are due on September 1 each year. Interest accrues beginning January 1. Property values are reassessed every four to eight years with the next revaluation occurring in 2009. • Property located within the corporate limits of the City of Charlotte is taxed by both the city and county. The state does not levy a property tax. • Property tax statements for car owners are sent out within three months of registration renewals and are due by the first day of the fourth month following renewal. • Property taxes fund police protection, public transportation, parks, public schools, libraries, restaurant inspections, and health and welfare programs. • For more information, call Char-Meck..................311

SALES TAX

POSTAL SERVICE

A Service of Child Care Resources Inc.

• A 4.25 percent state tax plus a 3.0 percent local tax makes up the 7.25 percent Mecklenburg County sales tax. Prepared food purchases carry an additional 1 percent tax, and hotel room occupancy rates carry an additional 6 percent tax.

Child Care Search is a service of Child Care Resources Inc. made possible with funding from United Way of Central Carolinas, Mecklenburg County, NC Division of Child Development & Smart Start

OFF on your next service call.*

INCOME TAX • All N.C. residents are subject to personal income taxes. The state’s individual income tax rate is based on the taxpayer’s taxable income as determined under the Internal Revenue Code. For more information, visit the state government Web site or call: N.C. Department of Revenue (toll-free) ..............................................877.252.3052

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

* With Coupon Only. Limit one coupon per customer. Valid 8am-6pm. Not valid with other offers. Expires 11/30/09

704-814-7283 or 704-814-SAVE www.OneHourAir.com

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

quick reference guide continued

TRANSPORTATION

UTILITY CONNECTIONS

AIR TRANSPORTATION

Making arrangements for utility and other services for your new home is a fairly simple process. A letter of credit or information about your former utility services may help you avoid paying deposits.

CHARLOTTE/DOUGLAS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.......................704.359.4000 • Provides non-stop service to 129 destinations, including 27 international destinations. • Serves around 30 million passengers a year. • The Wilson Air Center serves corporate and general aviation needs. • The airport offers shuttle and taxi service, public transit service, courtesy vehicle pick-up for motels, hotels and rental cars.

GROUND TRANSPORTATION • For the most part, Charlotte was not built on a grid system, and several streets change names multiple times. A good street map is a vital tool for newcomers to the city. One is available by calling the Chamber at 704.378.1300 or by visiting Info! Charlotte. CHARLOTTE AREA TRANSIT SYSTEM (CATS) ........................704.336.RIDE • The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) has an extensive transportation system in the Charlotte area. Local fare is just $1.30, while fares for express routes are $1.75 within the county and $2.60 to neighboring counties. • The LYNX Blue Line, Charlotte’s first light-rail transit system, extends from 7th Street in Center City Charlotte to I-485 at South Boulevard. Additional lines to Lake Norman, UNC Charlotte and the airport are planned for the future. • The Gold Rush, a free shuttle service, operates within the uptown area during weekday office hours. • While the entire fleet is wheelchair accessible, CATS Special Transportation Services provides additional services for those with certified disabilities. • Visit www.ridetransit.org for routes, fares and additional information.

OU DID Y

? W O KN

more sume any n o c s nian idents of t Caroli s North ies than re t 10 percen P u o n b o a o M — old state llion s other the 150 mi r. ea of each y

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS Alan Gordon Immigration & Naturalization Law ....................76 Allen Tate Company ................................................................48

ELECTRICITY

Atlas Van Lines/Paxton of Charlotte........................................42

Duke Energy..............................................800.777.9898 or online at www.duke-energy.com ElectriCities (parts of Cornelius and Huntersville) .......704.948.0550 EnergyUnited ............................................704.892.0278 Union Power Cooperative (serves several area counties) .................800.922.6840 Pineville Electric Company .......................704.889.2291

Bank of America ......................................................................38 Belk, Inc. ..................................................................................76 British American School of Charlotte ......................................56 Cannon School..........................................................................59 Carolina Buyer's Agent ............................................................31 Carolinas HealthCare System ..............................................2, 50 Centex Homes ............................................................................8 CENTURY 21 Hecht Realty, Inc. ..............................................39

WATER AND SEWER From inside Mecklenburg County ............................311 From outside the county...........................704.336.7600

Charlotte Christian School ......................................................59 Charlotte Country Day School..................................................57 Charlotte Latin School..............................................................57

GAS

Charlotte Preparatory School ..................................................58

Piedmont Natural Gas ..............................800.752.7504 PSNC Energy (Cornelius and Davidson) ...877.776.2427

Child Care Resources, Inc. ......................................................79

TELEPHONE

Ferguson Enterprises................................................................38

AT&T .........................................................888.757.6500 Town of Pineville (parts of Pineville)........704.889.2001 Windstream (Matthews) ..........................704.847.4828

Graebel Van Lines ..........................................................FC, 1, 47

CABLE TV

KB Home ..................................................................................33

Time Warner Cable...................................704.377.9600 or toll-free at 877-566-4TWC or online at www.timewarnercable.com

Lowe's Motor Speedway ........................................................65

Crescent Resources, LLC ..................................................IFC, 61

Helen Adams Realty ................................................................53 John Wieland Homes ................................................................6

M/I Homes................................................................................27 Majestic Tours, Inc. ..................................................................69 Max Daetwyler Corporation ....................................................31

TRASH & RECYCLING

McCar Homes ..........................................................................53

Charlotte CURB IT!...................................................311 BFI (Davidson)...........................................704.393.6900 R.C.S. Inc (Mint Hill).................................704.376.9359 Town of Matthews (in town limits) .........704.847.3640 Town of Pineville......................................704.889.2291 Waste Management (Cornelius and Huntersville).....................800.927.8362

Niblock Development Corporation ............................................5 Dan King’s One Hour Heating & Air ..................................62, 79 Pappas Properties, LLC ............................................................BC Piedmont Natural Gas Company..............................................44 Providence Day School ............................................................56 Rack Room Shoes, Inc. ............................................................74 RE/MAX Metro Realty..............................................................47

The following companies provide residential recycling services for unincorporated areas of the county: Allied Waste Services..............................704.393.6900 Republic/GDS of Charlotte.......................704.596.2077 Signature Waste Systems, Inc.................704.714.9400 Waste Management ................................704.824.2011

Rooms To Go ............................................................................75 Ryan Homes..............................................................................35 Shea Homes ..............................................................................4 Standard Pacific Homes ............................................................3 TelWare Corporation ................................................................70 The Charlotte Museum of History............................................70

VOTER REGISTRATION

The Charlotte Observer ..............................................................1

You must be a resident for 30 days and must register to vote 30 days prior to the next election. North Carolina also provides for same-day registration during early voting, which typically is available for two weeks prior to an election. For more information visit www.meckboe.org or call: Mecklenburg County Board of Elections 704.336.2133

The Charlotte Traveler..............................................................48 The Palisades ..........................................................................40 The Peninsula Yacht Club ........................................................67 Time Warner Cable ..................................................................49 Time Warner Cable Media Sales/News 14 Carolina ..............61 TradeStreet Realty....................................................................43 Tull Mortgage,LLC ....................................................................39 Wingfoot Residential, Inc. ......................................................IBC YMCA of Greater Charlotte................................................52, 77

2009 CHARLOTTE NEWCOMER RESOURCE GUIDE

7 0 4 . 3 7 8 . 1 3 0 0 • W W W. C H A R L O T T E C H A M B E R . C O M

Southwest Charlotteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fastest Growing Community

L I F E

I N

B E R E W I C K

BELLA SERA VILLAS 704-900-7605

CALLOWAY HOMES 704-841-1277

D.R. HORTON 866-591-4965

GANDY COMMUNITIES 704-897-1117

McCAR HOMES 704-588-9636

M/I HOMES 704-583-9048

SHEA HOMES 704-588-2118

ST LAWRENCE HOMES 704-892-7700 Directions: From I-77 take I-485 to Exit 4, Steele Creek Road (Hwy. 160). Turn left at top of the ramp onto Steele Creek Road (Hwy. 160). Right onto Shopton Road West. The main entrance to Berewick is approximately one-half mile on your right.

New Elementary School To Open 2009

Berewick, a new master-planned community in southwest Charlotte encompasses a collection of Scottish-themed residential villages in a park-like setting. With a TownCenter, corporate office park, and location just off I-485, Berewick offers a variety of lifestyle choices featuring single family homes, villas, town homes, and condos. Priced from the $180s through the $500s.

E R E W I C K

L O C AT I O N , L O C AT I O N , L I F E S T Y L E