Dec. '20: Cabarrus Then and Now

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DECEMBER 2020

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Cabarrus Then and Now

Breaking Bread | Healthy Living | Cabarrus Business | Business Resources

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t n o r F Up with

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December 2020 | 3

[ Publisher’s Notes ]

Word on the Street

W

ell, my friends. We made it. It is finally the end of 2020, the year that will go down as one of the worst in recent memory for many people. However, for all the turmoil and frustration we have all endured over the past 12 months, I’m willing to bet you can count a few blessings along the way as well.

As much as we don’t want to realize, or even admit it, we still live in a country that allows us freedoms many do not enjoy, and privileges others only dream of. Despite that fact, many of us still find something to complain about.

Has someone offended you? Blast them on social media. Disagree with another’s politics? Be sure to ruin their reputation by any means necessary. Someone used incorrect grammar in a social media post? They need to be publicly corrected and shamed for such an unforgivable mistake.

When did we lose the ability to be kind to one another? When did we stop accepting people’s faults, and when did we start expecting everyone to do and say everything right 100 percent of the time? When did it get so acceptable to throw stones from glass houses?

I get it. We are all frustrated. We all hate this pandemic. We all hate what it has done to our society and livelihoods. We all hate wearing masks. We miss our friends and family. But maybe – just maybe in 2021, we start lifting people up instead of breaking them down. Perhaps we try to supporting someone in their time of need rather than kicking them as they cry out for help. And, if we’re really feeling generous, we just keep scrolling.

Will it solve all our problems? Of course, it won’t. But I will say it is hard for animosity and divisiveness to fester when people aren’t doling it out as if it were water.

This month, we wanted you to enjoy some pictures, new and old, of Cabarrus during my favorite time of year, the holidays. We have included pictures from recent times and from simpler times, decades ago. In many ways we have changed, but I believe we have also stayed the same in our core belief that the holidays are something to be celebrated, and they are also a good time to reflect on the blessings we have.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Cabarrus MAGAZINE

December 2020 Volume 20 | Issue 11 PRESIDENT Pam Tolen PUBLISHER Jason Huddle ADVERTISING Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle DESIGN SPARK Publications CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jason Huddle CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Lawson Bonds City of Concord City of Kannapolis Cabarrus County Michael A. Anderson Photography Rowan Cabarrus Community College

Cabarrus Magazine is published by: CabCo Media Group 1025 Concord Parkway N Concord, NC 28027 PO Box 6265 Concord, NC 28027 For editorial inquiries, call 704-782-2353 or email them to Jhuddle@cabarrusmagazine.com.

For advertising inquiries, call 704-782-2353.

Visit us at cabarrusmagazine.com.

Jason Huddle

4 | Cabarrus Magazine

All rights reserved. ©2020, Comfort Publishing, Inc., 1025 Concord Parkway N, Concord, NC 28027.

Reproduction, in whole or in part, without permission is prohibited. Products named in these pages are trademarks of their respective companies. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Cabarrus Magazine or Comfort Publishing, Inc.

[ December 2020 ]

A Cabarrus Christmas 9

FEATURES 6

Cabarrus Then and Now

REGULARS 18

Breaking Bread: Overnight Walnut French Toast with Cranberry Walnut Ginger Compote

19

Cannon Pharmacy: Older Drivers Safety Awareness

16

20

Cabarrus Business: On the Go

30

Business Resources: At a Glance

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Cabarrus Then&Now C

abarrus County has always been a place of wonder and delight around the holidays. From long-held traditions like parades and pageants, to more recent ones, such as the lights at Charlotte Motor Speedway and the holiday train in Kannapolis, this community has always known how to bring out the best in holiday spirit. Here are some pictures from yesteryear and of more recent times to demonstrate how far we’ve come, and, in many ways, we haven’t changed at all.

Editor’s note: The most recent pictures were from 2019, prior to the COVID pandemic.

December 2020 | 7

[ Feature ]

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The Concord Christmas Parade has been an annual tradition for 92 years.

It is one of the oldest and largest parades in the Carolinas.

December 2020 | 9

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[ Feature ]

Although the participants have changed throughout the years, the support for Cabarrus County’s holiday parades has remained consistent. Even with this year’s virtual parade, participation remained high.

December 2020 | 11

[ Feature ]

If it is one thing that is synonymous with the holidays, it’s lights, and Cabarrus County has many to offer.

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[ Feature ]

The City of Kannapolis boasts a beautiful array of lights and holiday events each year as well.

December 2020 | 13

[ Feature ]

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[ Feature ]

“Silent night, holy night. All is calm.

All is bright...�

December 2020 | 15

[ Feature ]

From the immaculately decorated houses on Union Street, to the lights in downtown, Concord offers its share of holiday spirit every year.

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[ Feature ]

Tree lightings have become a holiday tradition unto themselves. Perhaps next year, we can gather together in person to watch.

December 2020 | 17

[ Breaking Bread ]

Overnight Walnut French Toast with Cranberry Walnut Ginger Compote 2. In medium pot over medium heat, combine toasted walnuts, cranberries, orange juice, syrup, ginger and orange zest. Bring to boil and stir frequently 12-15 minutes until cranberries pop and liquid starts to reduce.

3. Transfer to container and refrigerate once cooled.

Total time: 1 hour | Servings: 12 CRANBERRY WALNUT GINGER COMPOTE: • 1/2 cup California walnuts • 2 cups cranberries • 1/2 cup orange juice • 1/2 cup maple syrup • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger • 1 orange, zest only OVERNIGHT WALNUT FRENCH TOAST: • 8 slices Texas Toast or 1-inch thick slices French bread

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• 1/4 cup butter, melted, plus additional for baking dish, divided • 2 1/2 cups milk or walnut milk • 1/2 cup sugar • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 1 teaspoon cinnamon • 6 eggs TO MAKE CRANBERRY WALNUT GINGER COMPOTE: 1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Place walnuts on baking sheet and toast 8 minutes. Remove from heat and chop coarsely.

TO MAKE OVERNIGHT WALNUT FRENCH TOAST: 4. Preheat oven to 350° F. 5. Place bread on baking sheet and bake 5 minutes, or until lightly toasted on outside but still soft on inside. Butter 13-by-9-inch baking dish.

6. In large bowl, whisk milk, sugar, 1/4 cup butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon and eggs. Dip each bread slice in mixture and let soak about 15 seconds on each side. Place in prepared baking dish, overlapping slices slightly, if necessary.

7. Cover and refrigerate a few hours or overnight.

8. Preheat oven to 350° F. Bake 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown and somewhat firm to touch. Serve immediately topped with Cranberry Walnut Ginger Compote.

Older Drivers Safety Awareness

S

afety on the road is a serious matter. Some motorists can drive safely into their nineties, for others medical conditions, problems with eyesight, sleep, tremors, or memory can make driving more dangerous.

Many older people take multiple medications, whether prescribed or overthe-counter. Unfortunately, some of these drugs, or a combination of drugs, can impair judgement, or affect reflexes and the alertness necessary for safe driving.

Older drivers, in particular, need to be aware of this fact.

There’s more than one way to be under the influence. Impaired driving is generally associated with alcohol, prescription drug abuse, or illegal drug use. However, many legally obtained and commonly used over-the-counter and prescription drugs can affect a user’s ability to drive safely. Cold and allergy medicines, antidepressants, opioids, and sleep aids can cause side effects, including drowsiness, nausea, and blurred vision, all of which can put motorists at risk.

An older driver’s primary care provider or pharmacist can determine if an older driver’s medications can affect their driving.

There are many commonsense safety steps a smart defensive driver should take, including keeping windshield and headlights clean, watching for hazardous weather, and limiting digital distractions from phones and GPS units.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, (NHTSA), has designated December 7-11 as Older Driver Safety Awareness Week. It is a fact of life that people grow older every day. With increasing age come changes in physical, mental and

[ Healthy Living ]

BY GEORGE VELTRI SPONSORED BY CANNON PHARMACY

sensory abilities that can challenge a person’s continued ability to drive safely. But there are a variety of safe travel options for people of all ages.

The real need is a broader awareness of the solutions, rather than a narrow focus on the problem.

Here are the top Driver Safety Tips as listed by AARP: • Mind your medications • Get your vision and hearing tested regularly.

• Sit up behind the wheel.

• Be mindful that your reflexes and reaction times may be slowing down.

• Take a defensive driving course. You can find safe-driving classes near you through AAA or with an AARP Smart Driver Course • Learn your car’s safety technology … but don’t rely on it.

• Make a driving retirement plan.

December 2020 | 19

[ On the Go ]

WHAT’S NEW IN CABARRUS COUNTY

RCCC Offers Solutions for Students Wanting a Jump-Start on College during COVID

A

s many new and returning college students wrestle with decisions about higher education, they are also dealing with safety concerns about living on large university campuses. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College abounds with opportunities for students who would prefer a fully-virtual format. Rowan-Cabarrus offers a high-quality option with a great faculty-to-student ratio, and can be an ideal solution for students who want to start or continue their education.

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College is a leader in college transfer programs, giving students a jump-start on their four-year degrees without ever leaving home. The college has hundreds of courses that transfer into North Carolina’s 16 universities and dozens of independent (private) colleges and universities. Rowan-Cabarrus offers quality online classes and degrees, as well as individualized transfer advising support to help students every step of the way.

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“The expert faculty and their commitment to both their students and to their respective fields is one of the most rewarding parts of attending college at Rowan-Cabarrus,” said Executive Director of Transfer and University Partnerships Jenn Selby. “Our instructors are top-notch, with faculty holding degrees from some of the most esteemed graduate programs in the country. They conduct research, publish articles and books, and regularly contribute to their professional fields while leading students into the future through education. In fact, many of our part-time faculty members teach the exact same courses at universities that they do at Rowan-Cabarrus, which is something people often do not realize.”

“My concern is for the students who are choosing to stay home instead of following their original plan to move away to college. I don’t want them to lose their interest in

[ On the Go ] earning their college degree,” said Vice President of Academic Programs Dr. Michael Quillen. “Although now is certainly a difficult time, it is also the perfect time to work toward that baccalaureate degree without having to move away. Our team at RowanCabarrus is here to help students in that exact situation, be they recent high school graduates, or current university students taking off a semester, or who are unsure of their spring plans due to the pandemic. We are poised to welcome these students, support them, and help them achieve their goals.”

Many of these online degrees are fully transferrable, and RowanCabarrus has staff members who are dedicated solely to working with transfer students and the universities that accept them to ensure a smooth and seamless journey. Transfer courses are not just for recent high school graduates or current university students. There are also many adults who have used the past few months to revisit their personal goals, and some are realizing they want to earn their four-year degree. Rowan-Cabarrus can assist these adult learners in getting back into the swing of being a student.

“In the past, people used to think of the community college as the technical college – the place where you learned a trade. We still excel in technical education, but what people are realizing is that we are also a leader in transfer programs for students who want to go on to a four-year university,” said Selby. “By beginning their academic careers with us, students save tremendous amounts of money while receiving personalized levels of instruction and student support, and it prepares them for a strong transition when they are ready to transfer.”

In recent years, North Carolina’s community colleges have worked closely with public and private universities across the state to ensure that students can take courses at the same level of rigor and expertise,

but at a fraction of the cost, and then successfully transfer to a fouryear university when the time is right for them. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College has a growing emphasis on serving the transfer student, from dedicated one-on-one transfer advising to a new virtual Transfer Center and a Transfer and University Partnership team that is focused on forming relationships with universities and making sure those credits transfer.

In 2019 alone, almost 300 students from the community transferred into UNC system schools. That does not include students who transferred to private or out-of-state colleges. UNC Charlotte, UNC Greensboro, and UNC Wilmington are three of the most popular transfer universities for students at Rowan-Cabarrus. One of the most exciting recent partnerships is the new Learn Local, Grow Local transfer partnership that ensures over 50-plus degrees seamlessly transfer from Rowan-Cabarrus to Catawba College, with some students eligible for large scholarships.

“Working with the folks at Catawba College has felt like working with family, and I am so proud that our colleges are working together to help students in our community,” said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of

Rowan-Cabarrus. “Our next initiative is to create a transfer agreement with Livingstone College so that students can stay right here in their hometown and have their choice of transfer options.”

It’s not too late to sign up for a class, or an entire program at Rowan-Cabarrus this spring.

Applying is always free, and the college’s spring semester begins on January 8. Rowan-Cabarrus offers fully-transferable degrees in Liberal Arts, Science, Engineering, Visual Arts, Early Childhood Education, Nursing, and more. This spring, courses are being offered in a variety of ways – including online at the student’s own pace, online with set meeting times, and limited in-person courses. For more information about Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, please visit www.rccc.edu or call 704-216-RCCC (7222).

Community Members Complete First Virtual Concord 101 Program Concord city leadership recognized 65 community members in November as they completed the first virtual Concord 101 Program.

These active community members met together online in a virtual classroom for 14 consecutive weeks.

December 2020 | 21

[ On the Go ]

“I know that our community has faced many challenges over the past eight months, including numerous adjustments. However, we still felt that it was important to offer Concord 101, and I am glad that we could do that virtually. I hope that you learned a great deal throughout the program about TEAM Concord and the processes.”

The first in-person Concord 101 course began in 2002, with graduates being a diverse community representation.

Numerous alumni now serve in leadership roles in their neighborhoods, city boards, and commissions. Including Concord Council Members Jennifer Parsley and John Sweat.

During the graduation event, City Manager Lloyd Payne encouraged the graduates to share feedback on city services and programs and connect with the city online.

Mr. Payne also shared the following words with the group.

“I know that our community has faced many challenges over the past eight months, including numerous

— City Manager Lloyd Payne Concord Mayor Bill Dusch and City Manager Lloyd Payne thanked participants for their involvement during the ceremony.

“On behalf of City Council, thank you for caring enough to devote your time and attention to learning how your government works. You decided to participate in Concord 101 during a time of many challenges in our community,” stated Mayor Bill Dusch. “It is good to see a diverse group of citizens with a vested interest in the City and a shared commitment to its well-being.”

Concord 101 further educates citizens regarding their local government. During the recent program run, participants met virtually on Tuesday evenings and learned the strategic why’s and how city services run, such as solid waste and recycling, public utilities, police, fire, parks and recreation, and more.

The course also included special sessions such as Concord’s history, economic development, and tourism.

The free 14-week course began in August.

22 | Cabarrus Magazine

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[ On the Go ] adjustments. However, we still felt that it was important to offer Concord 101, and I am glad that we could do that virtually. I hope that you learned a great deal throughout the program about TEAM Concord and the processes.”

2020 participants include: Victor Acosta, Martin Ardis, Willmarie Austin, Obafemi Balogun, Elizabeth Benton, Randy Berrier, Beth Boaz,

Dennis Bost, Patrick Brown, James Buford, Marion (Tony) Caldwell, Manuel Campbell, Thomas (Scott) Carroll, Chris Cavanaugh, Joanne Chesley, Annmarie Collins, Courtney Currie, Mark Davis-McCrary, Tristin Deal, Rachael Donner, DiOnna Edmond, Brittany Evans, Kenyetta Graham, Larry Grubka, Linda Hanson, Ken Herzer, Wendy Herzer, Michelle Joshua, Suseel

Kumar Kammara, Saumya Kothari, Carrie Kunder, Andy Langford, Germaine Lipscomb, Brian Little, Valerie Longstreet, John Lord, Kati McGinnis, MonaLisa Metellus, Harold Mills, Trudy Mills, Thomas Moore, Mark Murphy, Gillian Mvula, Safiya Nelson, Morrè Paul, Grant Phillips, Dorene Player, Emma Player, Andrea Prince, Alfonso Rattrovo, Vicky Reynolds, Genie Rivera , Jamala Sampson, Mary Sanders, Keshia Sandidge, Monique Sharpless, Matthew Sides, Natashia Stewart, Betty Stocks, Bernie Lee Thompson, Kasia Thompson, Christina Toscano, Danielle, Velazco, Leah Wade, Dena Wike, Julie Williams, Leonard Williams, and Nijah Wilson.

The next class will begin in the fall of 2021, with applications available in June. Learn more about Concord 101 at concordnc.gov/concord101.

City Dedicates First Permanent Public Artworks to Grace Greenway In celebration of its 80th anniversary in 2017, Atrium Health Cabarrus donated a generous gift to several local municipalities, including Concord. Their goal was to fund projects that would be of benefit to the cities and promote health and wellness. City leadership proposed the public artworks as

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“Atrium Health is excited to partner with the City of Concord for this very special initiative to add even more beauty to the Hector Henry II Greenway while celebrating the hospital’s 80th anniversary.”

—Chris Bowe, Atrium Health Senior Vice President and North Market President December 2020 | 23

[ On the Go ] an “Art on the Greenway” project to fulfill the hospital’s goal for the community project, and Atrium Health accepted. The Planning & Neighborhood Development Department and the Buildings & Grounds Department co-managed the project, enlisting ClearWater Arts Center & Studios.

With approval from the Concord Public Art Committee and the funding from Atrium Health Cabarrus, ClearWater commissioned resident artists Walter Stanford, Paul Keysar, and Gordon C. James to create images of birds found in the wetland near the Greenway. For fabrication, Jim Gallucci Sculptor, LLC, in Greensboro, gave consult on the refinement of the computer images of the designs, and also handled the cutting and finishing.

He provided an economical cost to complete two panels within the commemorative gift budget.

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[ On the Go ]

“As we invest in our community together for health, hope and healing for all, we find that these public spaces are an opportunity for us to gather safely, celebrate nature and celebrate Dr. Henry, who gave so much to the hospital, his patients and his community.”

— Chris Bowe, Atrium Health Senior Vice President and North Market President The large, rust-coated panels poetically depict two bird species: the soft flight of a Snowy Egret over water, by Paul Keysar; and the commanding gaze of a Barred Owl from tangled branches, by Walter Stanford. The third design, Great Blue Heron by James, should be funded soon via other sources.

These are the first works of public art for these artists.

Dignitaries from the City of Concord, Atrium Health

Cabarrus, and Cabarrus Arts Council officially dedicated the new pair of art works that were installed in November along the Hector Henry II Greenway. At the dedication, Concord Mayor Bill Dusch thanked all parties involved, with a nod to the work of the Public Art Committee. “We know what a powerful positive force public art is, for the economic and cultural life of a city. These artworks will withstand the

elements for many years while enhancing the experience for those on this Greenway. They signify the beauty of the wildlife living in the wetlands area.” He also congratulated the hospital for a “fine investment in citizen health.”

“Atrium Health is excited to partner with the City of Concord for this very special initiative to add even more beauty to the Hector Henry II Greenway while celebrating the hospital’s 80th anniversary,” said Atrium Health Senior Vice President and North Market President Chris Bowe.

“As we invest in our community together for health, hope and healing for all, we find that these public spaces are an opportunity for us to gather safely, celebrate nature and celebrate Dr. Henry, who gave so much to the hospital, his patients and his community.”

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December 2020 | 25

[ Feature ]

Susan Green Honored with 2020 Jo Atwater Continuous Core Values Award

“I knew Jo Atwater and everything she stood for, and it is an absolute honor to receive this award, which is named in her honor. I serve the community without a thought of recognition. It’s just a way of life for me.”

—Susan Green

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At the November 12 City Council Meeting, Assistant Aviation Director Susan Green was surprised with the news that she is the 2020 recipient of the Jo Atwater Continuous Core Values award, which is the city’s highest honor for coworkers. During the virtual City Council meeting, Customer Service Advancement Team co-facilitators Lesley Reder and Desmond Miller announced Green as the winner, while her family, friends, and aviation department colleagues filed in a large conference room at the Concord Padgett Regional Airport in a show of support.

Green is the Assistant Aviation Director at Concord-Padgett Regional Airport. She worked her way through customer service roles and into property/lease management until she became the Assistant Aviation Director in 2018. She has a unique understanding of the airport’s operations and a dedicated commitment to customers. Green was instrumental in the implementation of ISBAH – ensuring the airport follows the highest possible safety standards. She led renovations to the terminal building, including the addition of the Air Elite Welcome Center.

The Continuous Core Values Award was created in 2003 to annually recognize one coworker who embodies the organizational core values and commitment to serving others in the community. Jo Atwater, who was Concord’s Human Resources Director until she passed away in 2004, was the first recipient of the award that was named in her honor.

“Susan was selected from an outstanding pool of nominees last spring,” said Reder. “Susan demonstrates the city’s core values every day through her work at the airport and in our community. She has remained focused on helping our airport continue to grow, while

keeping our customers in mind.

Susan has had numerous roles over the last 25 years, starting as an aviation service worker fueling aircraft, parking planes and even serving as a ‘firefighter’ before there was an onsite fire station. Beyond her service to the airport, Susan is committed to her community through her service with her church and various nonprofit organizations.”

Green is very committed to her community. She has organized food and clothing drives through her church, is a member of the Cabarrus Visitor Bureau’s Women in Leadership group, helped with the Berlin Airlift Veterans Association C-54 Spirit of Freedom Tours, and helped plan the Grin Kids send-off and return from their annual Florida trip. She is always “going above and beyond to ensure that customers and coworkers are treated with dignity and courtesy is common practice for Susan,” stated Aviation Director Dirk Vanderleest.

“I knew Jo Atwater and everything she stood for, and it is an absolute honor to receive this award, which is named in her honor,” said Green. “I serve the community without a thought of recognition. It’s just a way of life for me. It is good to know that I am appreciated by others. I am thankful for the experiences that I have had over the years and glad to have the opportunity to work with a great team at the airport and at the city.”

Green grew up in Vinton, Virginia then moved to North Carolina in 1986, and started her journey with the City of Concord Aviation Department in 1994. She graduated from Staunton River High School. She is the daughter of the late Paul and Della DeLancey.

Her hobbies include spending time with her family and especially her grandkids, reading, camping trips to the mountains, relaxing on the beach and walks with her dog.

[ Feature ]

Private Investment in Downtown Kannapolis Progressing Successfully The Kannapolis City Council’s goal to attract private investment in the downtown area continues to progress with the sale of two more parcels of property. At a recent meeting, the City Council approved the sale of 230, 234, 242, 246 and 250 Oak Avenue (Block 7) to Oak Avenue Partners, LLC. The properties currently have two tenants, including Pizza Hut, and is suitable for office and commercial space. The property, which is 0.56 acres and approximately 11,000 square feet, will be purchased for $930,000.

Oak Avenue Partners, LLC includes Neil Goolsby, a native of Kannapolis and Lisa Hoover, a native of Rowan County. Goolsby will be moving his company, ISU Gilmore Insurance, to one of the Oak Avenue properties, while Hoover will be locating her new company, Partner-Investing.com to another of the Oak Avenue Properties. Partner-Investing. com trains and coaches real estate investors.

The City Council also approved the sale of Block 1 (Phase 2 and 3) on Main Street which is approximately 115,000 square feet currently divided into 14 individual spaces to the Lansing Melbourne

“We have made tremendous progress in the last five years.

We developed a plan and then we took action to make that plan a reality.”

— Kannapolis Mayor Darrell Hinnant

December 2020 | 27

[ Feature ]

“Without our investments in the catalyst projects, we would not have private developers coming to us with their money and their ideas for businesses, restaurants and offices.

The City Council and I are excited to see what new businesses will be opening in our downtown and throughout our City in 2021.”

— Kannapolis Mayor Darrell Hinnant

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Group (LMG)/Kannapolis Retail Venture I, LLC, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for $1.2 million. This purchase includes 100,102, 104, 108-112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, and 128 Main Street. LMG has already purchased Block 1 West Avenue, Block 2 and Block 3 (VIDA and Old Armor Beer Company). They plan a significant investment in the Block 1 Main Street spaces as they need extensive utility and building renovations.

All of the properties were first purchased by the City of Kannapolis in 2015 as part of the Downtown Revitalization Project.

At that time the city acquired 50 acres of land and buildings in the downtown area and adopted a master development plan, which focused on investing in projects that would bring private investment to the downtown area.

The first three phases of the plan included three catalyst projects that would attract private investment: replacement of infrastructure and the construction of the West Avenue Streetscape (completed and opened in October 2019); the VIDA mixed-use district public parking deck (opening winter 2021); and the Atrium Health Ballpark (opened April 2020), the new home of the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers. The city invested $113 million in these projects. To date, the City of Kannapolis has seen an approximate investment by private developers of $80 million, with more investments coming in the next year.

“We have made tremendous progress in the last five years. We developed a plan and then we took action to make that plan a reality. Without our investments in the catalyst projects, we would not have private developers coming to us with their money and their ideas for businesses, restaurants and offices. The

City Council and I are excited to see what new businesses will be opening in our downtown and throughout our City in 2021,” commented Kannapolis Mayor Darrell Hinnant. “The sale of these properties and the anticipated property tax revenues, which we will collect in the future, will enable us to not only pay back the costs of our initial investments in the catalyst projects but we will garner the benefits of a having a vibrant downtown filled with business owners and residents in the apartments and surrounding housing areas.”

“Our interest in investing in Kannapolis properties continues because of the positive relationships we have established with the community and city leadership. We have already seen success with our purchase and renovation of Block 2 and 3 on West Avenue. We look forward to continuing to attract great new businesses to the city,” said Kent Gregory, partner of LMG and Kannapolis Retail Venture I, LLC. “We have three new businesses opening soon including Chophouse 101, 3 Gems Boutique and Lovely Lines Boutique.”

“Neil and I are very pleased to be a part of the revitalization of downtown Kannapolis. We have already received many calls from people who would like to be tenants in the remaining Oak Avenue spaces. We will work closely with the Cabarrus County Chamber of Commerce and several new business venture groups to help other small businesses get started or expand in the area. If there is a need, we will consider offering keyman office space at our location as well,” stated Hoover.

For more information how your business can be part of the Kannapolis Revitalization Project contact Irene Sacks at 704.920.4326 or email isacks@kannapolisnc.gov.

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[ Business Resources ]

At a Glance Automotive Sales

Gutter & Leaf Protection

Pharmacies/Medications

Ben Mynatt Nissan..................................22 629 Jake Alexander Blvd Salisbury, NC 28147 704-633-7270 www.benmynattnissan.com

Leaf Filter Gutter Protection................. 29 1-877-649-7231

Cannon Pharmacies................................ 19 Multiple locations in Concord and Kannapolis www.cannonpharmacies.com

Bookkeeping Services Allison Bookkeeping & Tax Service......22 348 Manor Ave, SW Concord, NC 28025 704-788-8232 www.allisontaxnc.com

Churches New Hope Worship Center..................... 3 452 Brookwood Ave, NE Concord, NC 28025 704-786-0155 www.newhopewc.org

Funeral Homes Wilkinson Funeral Home....................... 23 100 Branchview Dr, NE Concord, NC 28025 704-786-3168 www.wilkinsonfuneralhome.com

Generator Sales Generac Home Standby Generator........ 3 1-877-384-4424

Gift Delivery Pittman & Davis...................................... 32 1-888-681-2740 www.pittmandavis.com/MN197

Graphic Design/Layout SPARK Publications.................................. 4 2116 Crowne Center Dr, Suite 300 Charlotte, NC 28227 704-844-6080 www.sparkpublications.com

30 | Cabarrus Magazine

Insurance Providers GEICO – Concord Mills............................. 2 7741 Gateway Ln, Suite 100 Concord, NC 28027 980-258-6340 www.geico.com/concord

Photographers Michael A. Anderson Photography..... 18 704-701-5908 www.michael-a-anderson.com

Marketing Services

Print & Technology Services

CabCo Media Group............................... 24 1025 Concord Parkway North Concord, NC 28027 704-782-2353 www.CabCoMedia.com

Modern Impressions.............................. 23 5029 West W.T. Harris Blvd Charlotte, NC 28269 800-840-2554 www.modernimpressions.com

Medical Facilities

Wineries

Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers.......................................... 2 • 202D McGill Ave. NW Concord, NC 28025 704-792-2297 • 308 E Centerview St China Grove, NC 28023 704-855-5200 • 298 Lincoln St, SW Concord, NC 28025 704-792-2313 • 300 N Salisbury Ave Spencer, NC 28159 704-216-2630 Plus, three new locations in Salisbury and China Grove! www.crchc.org

Cabo Winery............................................. 2 37 Union St, S, Suite A2 Concord, NC 28025 704-785-9463 www.cbowine.com

Carolina Digestive Health Associates..................................... 2 1084 NE Gateway CT Concord, NC 28025 704-372-7974 www.carolinadigestive.com

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4 (5 (4 oz.) Butcher’s Boneless Cut PorkTop Chops Sirloins Boneless Chicken Breasts (1 lb. pkg.)

4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops 8 Boneless (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers 4 Chicken Breasts (1 lb. pkg.)

(3 oz.) Gourmet JumboBurgers Franks 8 (4 Omaha Steaks (3.8 oz.)

Individual Scalloped 8 (3 oz.)

Gourmet Jumbo FranksPotatoes (4 oz.)

Caramel Apple TartletsPotatoes 8 (3.8 oz.)

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Caramel (1 Apple $298.87* separately(1 oz.)

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Photoslimitations. exemplaryCannot of product advertised.

Limit 2. 4off free oz.) pork chops and 4 free chicken breasts while supplies Items may be single substituted due to inventory be combined with other ers.(4Other restrictions may apply.

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Offer available acknowledge acceptance Terms ofthat Use. Visit omahasteaks.com/termsof-useOSI or call 1-800-228-9872 for added a copy.per Expires 1/31/21. while supplies last. Items may be substituted due to inventory limitations. Cannot be combined with other offers. Other restrictions may apply. All purchases acknowledge acceptance of Terms of Use. Visit omahasteaks.com/termsof-useOSI or call 1-800-228-9872 for a copy. Expires 1/31/21.

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Pittman & Davis, Harlingen, TX 78552

IC: PNVH-N197