AUGUST 2015
The Traditionals: Doing More With Less
Baby Boomers: Work to Live, Not Live to Work
Generation Y: Gen X: Latchkey Kids?
Life in Real-Time
Generation Z: Digital Natives
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Word on the Street August 2015 Volume 15 n Issue 8 President Pam Tolen
Managing Editor/Art Direction Kim Cassell Advertising Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle Contributing Writer Kim Cassell Contributing Photographers Michael A. Anderson Photography Camilla Ferguson
Cabarrus Magazine is published by: Comfort Publishing Inc. 296 Church Street N. Hidden Plaza Concord, NC 28025 For editorial inquiries, call 704-782-2353 or email them to Kim Cassell at kcassell@ cabarrusmagazine.com. For advertising inquiries, call Jason Huddle at 704-907-7847 or Kimberly Brouillette at 704-305-7599. Visit us at www.cabarrusmagazine.com. All rights reserved. ©2015, Comfort Publishing Inc., 296 Church Street N., Concord, NC 28025. 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.
Rachel Fesko
Publisher Jason Huddle
“Youth is wasted on the young...Don’t trust anyone over 35...If it’s too loud, you’re too old!” These sayings, and many like them – set to disparage the members of a different generation – have been repeated for years. One generation always thinks it has the most knowledge, wisdom and know-how than the others. It’s human nature. In today’s culture, some of the younger generations might believe Baby Boomers’ ideals to be outdated and obsolete, while older members of our society may see generations X and Y as reckless. And Generation Z? Well they’re just too young to know what’s good for them yet, right? The truth of the matter is that everyone has something to contribute to our community. We need the experience of the ‘greatest generation’ to couple with the innovation of Generation X to work together to build a better society. It is with this idea that we present this month’s issue, aptly entitled, The Generation Gap. We took people from all walks of life and asked them the same questions so that our readers could see that each one of them has relevant points of view. We hope you’ll use this issue as a means to start a discussion with your own family and friends – especially ones of a different generation – and open your mind to how they think. I’d also like to take a moment to let you know that our new and improved website is now up at www.cabarrusmagazine.com! Check it out to view the online edition of the magazine, lots of extra articles, find a Cabarrus Magazine distribution location near you, and see what’s up and coming on our community calendar! You can even create your own business listing or post your upcoming events for free! Check it out and come back every day for more articles and events.
Best regards,
Jason Huddle
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This Issue... The Generation Gap 6
The Traditionals: Doing More With Less
10
The Baby Boomers: Work to Live, Not Live to Work
15
Breaking Bread: Chef Ferguson Dishes
16
Generation X: Latchkey Kids?
20
Generation Y: Life in Real-Time
23
Give Me Shelter: Cabarrus’ Adoptable Cats
24
Generation Z: Digital Natives
26
Cabarrus Businesses: On the Go
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By Kim Cassell
The Traditionals: Doing More With Less
Generation gap – a term that came about in the 1960s – can be defined as “the difference in attitude or behavior between young and older people that causes a lack of understanding.” What began as teens and young adults bucking their parents’ system of authority and values has repeated itself over and over as each new generation comes of age. And with human life expectancies riding the longevity wave of advancements in medicine and nutrition, it’s interesting to compare five generations that are alive and well. Cabarrus Magazine developed a set of questions and posed those questions to a Cabarrus County resident representing each generation. The questions run the gamut – from family and career/retirement to technology and social issues. This allows us to compare apples to apples as well as achieve insight into how we as individuals view the world we live in. Traditionals are those persons born between 1922 and 1945. Also called the Silent Generation and the Greatest Generation, these are your World War II military veterans and those who lived through the Great Depression. According to valueoptions.com, “These older Americans hold three-quarters of the nation’s wealth and are the executive leaders of some of the most established and influential companies in America. They are responsible for " 6 Cabarrus Magazine n
Shirley Ames is a member of the Traditional Generation. She lives in a senior community in Kannapolis.
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The Traditional VALUES • Believes in conformity, authority and rules • Believes in logic • Very defined sense of right and wrong • Loyalty and respect for authority ATTRIBUTES • Disciplined • Views an understanding of history as a way to plan for the future • Dislikes conflict • Detail-oriented WORK STYLE • Consistency and uniformity • Seeks out technological advancements • Past-oriented • Command-and-control leadership reminiscent of military operations Source: valueoptions.com
developing today’s space program, creating vaccines for many diseases, including polio, tuberculosis, tetanus and whooping cough, and laying the foundation for today’s technological environment.” Shirley Ames is 83 and lives with her two cats at The Villas at Forest Park in Kannapolis. Even though she suffers from arthritis, has poor vision and has had more than one heart attack, she is vibrant and has a great sense of humor.
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CM: Where is your hometown; how long have you lived in Cabarrus County? Shirley: Cato, New York. I’ve lived in Cabarrus County for seven years.
press terminology prior to the digital era) but I didn’t call it that in public. I’d still be working if the plant hadn’t closed. I started out at $1.25 and made $8 (an hour) when I left.
CM: How would you describe your personality? Shirley: x Outgoing q q Introverted q Structured/Disciplined x Independent q q Outgoing and independent
CM: How important is education to you? How far did you go in school? Shirley: I graduated from high school – there were 500 in my graduating class in New Jersey – but I was the oldest of five children and didn’t have the privilege of going any further. The ‘40s were hard.
CM: What is your definition of family? Shirley: That’s a hard one because I think about what I experienced growing up with my family. Lots of love, respect, being very trustworthy and being here for me when I need them.
CM: Are you married, single, divorced? Shirley: Widowed. I was married the first time 17 years and had three children. Then I was married 30 years and had a daughter.
CM: Your parents are deceased? Shirley: Yes. They divorced and remarried each other. They were divorced only a couple years. When they divorced, my dad came and stayed with me; we had a big farm. My mom did remarry; she was very much ‘her way or the highway.’ My daddy loved her ‘til the day he died. We knew there was no one else for my dad. CM: How old were you when you got your first job? What was it? Shirley: I did babysitting from the time I was 12. I worked in a bank in Syracuse before I was married and then I worked as a layout artist for 27 years. I was a stripper (printing pre-
CM: How old were you when you got married? Shirley: Eighteen. And I was 18 years old when I had my first child nine months later. CM: How many children do you have? Shirley: Four: two boys and two girls. CM: What are your thoughts about children before marriage? Shirley: When I was in school, we wanted to grow up and get married; that was our main concern. We didn’t have the influences the girls have today. I still feel that marriage should come before children. Back in the ‘40s and ‘50s, it (having a child out of wedlock) wasn’t even considered.
CM: What has been your most radical fashion trend? Shirley: Poodle skirts and peasant blouses. I still like peasant blouses but not poodle skirts. There was a fashion when the slip would hang below the skirt; the slip was lacey. My mom made all our clothes and we lived for that. Now I live in jeans. I entered a fashion show in high school. My skirt was down to here (shin) and I wore a red blouse with sleeves to here (elbows). You didn’t show your arms then. CM: Do you rent or own (home, car)? Shirley: I had my own home in New York and I’m very sorry, sometimes, that I sold it. I rent now and don’t drive. CM: What do you do for fun? Shirley: I visit with my neighbors and grandkids. I participate in a lot that goes on here: karaoke, potluck dinners. We have so many memories to share. This next one (potluck dinner) is my theme: a picnic…hamburgers, hot dogs. We try to draw people out and we’re getting there. They call me ‘the queen of the 3rd floor.’ One day they bought me a crown and a cape.
your home? Shirley: My phone. I have a landline and not a cell phone. CM: With regard to the state of the world, please rank the following’s importance (1-7) to you, no. 1 being most important/of most urgency. Shirley: ____ 1 Economy ____ 3 Environment ____ 2 Healthcare ____ 6 Politics ____ 4 Religion ____ 5 Social Topics (abortion, gay rights, race relations, transgender, etc.) ____ 7 Terrorism CM: How old were you when you retired? Shirley: I was 62 and the only reason was because my husband was diagnosed with lung cancer and I felt like my priority was him. I was financially able to, so I did.
and I had some other income at the time. That was all gone by the time my husband passed away. My daughter knows I’m being cremated and she’s taking me back to New York. I hate the color pink and she knows that. She’s told me she’s going to buy me a pink casket and I’m going to be wearing a pink dress (laughs). CM: What is your retirement like? Shirley: Financially, I could be a lot better off. After I sold my home and lived with my other daughter in Florida for a while, I realized I didn’t want to get married again. I have a gentleman friend and I could shack up with him, but I’m not into that. I sometimes wake up in the morning and just sit on the edge of my bed because of the pain. But I thank God every day that I can sit on the edge of that bed. I count my blessings every day. n
CM: How did you prepare for it? Shirley: I took my social security early
CM: What is your definition of happiness? Of success? Shirley: Being with family, my friends, enjoying my animals and spending a lot of time with my daughter. Of success? My kids. CM: How often do you read a book? Physical, eBook or audio? Shirley: I can’t because of my eyesight. (Years of strenuous pre-press work took their toll.) CM: How important are the Internet and social media to you? How often do you use them? Shirley: I don’t use them at all and have no desire to. CM: What’s your favorite way to communicate with friends/family? Do you have a landline phone in
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By Kim Cassell
The Baby Boomers:
Work to Live, Not Live to Work Baby Boomers are those persons born between 1946 and 1964. These are the individuals that witnessed the first space exploration, and experienced the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights and Women’s movements. According to valueoptions.com, “With increased educational, financial and social opportunities, the Boomer Generation is often portrayed as a generation of optimism, exploration and achievement. Compared with previous generations, more young adults pursued higher education or relocated away from family to pursue career and educational interests.” Bobby Whitley is 55 and a familiar face in Cabarrus County. As owner of local residential and commercial property, his name and his pick-up truck are everywhere. In a sea of Roberts from his generation, Bobby is his given name. CM: Where is your hometown: Bobby: I grew up in Concord. I live right down the road, in Kannapolis. CM: How would you describe your personality? Bobby: x Outgoing ❑ ❑ Introverted x Structured/Disciplined ❑ x Independent " ❑ 10 Cabarrus Magazine n
A Baby Boomer, Bobby Whitley is a second generation entrepreneur, taking what his father started and continuing the success.
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The Baby Boomer VALUES • Individual choice • Community involvement • Prosperity • Ownership • Self-actualizing • Health and wellness ATTRIBUTES • Adaptive • Goal-oriented • Focused on individual choices and freedom • Adaptive to a diverse workplace • Positive attitude WORK STYLES • Confidence in tasks • Emphasizes team building • Seeks collaborative, group decision-making • Avoids conflict Source: valueoptions.com
CM: What is your definition of family? Bobby: Family is mother, father and children, but it’s also close friends. CM: Are your parents married, divorced or deceased? Bobby: My dad is deceased but my parents were married until my dad died. Dad has been dead almost four years and I don’t think Mom will remarry. CM: How old were you when you got your first job? What was it? Bobby: My first job was a paper boy for the Independent Tribune. I did that for two years. Then I worked for my dad’s car washes. He had two locations when I graduated from high school. I told him I wanted more car washes so we built one together. We built several together over the years and then I started buying him out when he got older. CM: How important is education to you? How far did you go in school?
Bobby: I graduated from RCCC with honors, with a degree in business administration. Those were the two best years of my life. We had a close group of friends that ran the Business Club. We made so much money…we went skiing, we had mixers. CM: Are you married, single, divorced? Bobby: I’ve been married for 30 years; I was 25 when I got married. I started dating my wife when she was 15 and we dated for six years. CM: Do you have any children? If so, how many? Bobby: Yes. We have two children. And one grandson…2 ½. CM: What are your thoughts about marriage before children? Bobby: I would rather not see it but I know situations happen. CM: What is your occupation? Bobby: I own five car washes; I own 28 residential properties…duplexes, condos; and I own one commercial property…Danny’s and Hidden Plaza. CM: How long have you been in business? Bobby: Thirty-seven years. CM: What has been your most radical fashion trend? Bobby: The short tennis shorts in the ‘70s. Then I switched to Levi jeans without a belt and that drove my dad crazy. I had one polyester leisure suit, a smokey grayish blue. CM: Do you rent or own (home, car)? Bobby: I own both. CM: What do you do for fun? Bobby: I like to travel; I like Lake Norman and Badin Lake, and I like sailing. I had a 16-foot Hobie (catamaran) years ago. That’s like a go-cart on the water. I also found a website where I could join a crew. We sailed from Chesapeake Bay to the Florida Keys on a 30-foot boat.
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CM: What is your definition of happiness; success? Bobby: A close group of caring family and friends. I want to be financially comfortable. CM: How often do you read a book? Physical, eBook or audio? Bobby: I enjoy reading travel & leisure magazines. If I can’t read it in 15 or 20 minutes, I won’t. I like a physical book. CM: How important are the Internet and social media to you? How often do you use them? Bobby: Pretty important. I use them every day. (He does have a Facebook page.) CM: What’s your favorite way to communicate with friends/family? Do you have a landline phone in your home? Bobby: By cell phone. Yes, I have a landline. I want to get rid of it but my wife likes to have it. All we get are marketing calls. CM: With regard to the state of the world, please rank the following’s importance (1-7) to you, no. 1 being most important/of most urgency. Economy Environment Healthcare Politics Religion Social Topics (abortion, gay rights, race relations, transgender, etc.) Terrorism Bobby: They’re all no. 1. Without "
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good health, what good is a great environment? CM: Have you thought about your retirement? Bobby: Yes, but I don’t know if I do want to retire. I enjoy working. But I do want to slow down. My business is less structured. My phone rings all the time and I have guys at the car washes all the time, but I can take off for the lake if I want to. And the rental properties have been very good to me.
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CM: Have you started preparing for retirement? Bobby: Yes. Retirement funds, the stock market, etc. CM: What do you anticipate your retirement will be like? Bobby: I would like to travel and sail, and hang out with family and friends....knowing if I want to go on vacation, I can afford it. n
Breaking Bread cabarrus magazine is happy to feature personal CHEF CAMILLA FERGUSON. she WILL BE BRINGING ONE OF HER OWN RECIPES TO CABARRUS MAGAZINE READERS EACH MONTH, so Bon Appetit!
Black-Eyed Pea Salad INGREDIENTS 2 containers fresh black-eyed peas (in produce section) 1/2 red onion, diced 1 4-oz. jar diced pimento 1/4-cup olive oil 1/4-cup red wine vinegar 1/4-cup fresh parsley Salt & pepper to taste (Can also add diced bell pepper if desired) DIRECTIONS Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and gently blend together. Refrigerate up to one hour before serving. This is a great summertime side dish with grilled meats...very high in protein!
Cami Ferguson has a passion for food that was developed at an early age. As a child, she watched her grandmother make homemade Italian specialties as well as her dad cooking “Southern soul food.” Between the two, she learned a lot about different culinary styles. Her horizons were further broadened and tweaked by her exposure to a large variety of global cuisines during her extensive travels. She has turned all of those experiences into one joyous profession. As a personal chef, Ferguson performs a variety of services for individuals, couples, families and small groups. She encourages everyone to enjoy quality time over intimate dinners with family or friends without the stress of planning, shopping, preparing, pick-up or cleanup, and can design menus – from basic to elegant – to satisfy many individual tastes, needs and budgets. Chef Ferguson can be reached at 704-330-9321, CamillaFerguson@ gmail.com or at her website: www.CuisineByCami.com. n
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Marjorie Brown is a Gen Xer, practicing attorney, wife and mom. Family comes first.
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By Kim Cassell
Generation X: Latchkey Kids?
Generation Xers ARE individuals born between 1965 and 1980. Also called the Boomerang Generation because some found themselves having to move back home after college, theY saw the increasing divorce rate, Watergate and the recession of the ‘80s. Marjorie J. Brown is 46 and lives in Concord. A graduate of NC State University and UNC Chapel Hill Law School, she has her own practice locally, specializing in estate planning and administration, and elder law. According to valueoptions.com, “Generation X was pushed toward adulthood at an age earlier than any other recent generation. This generation found themselves home alone and taking care of themselves and their siblings while their parents worked. They were not coddled for every emotional need and want. Autonomy and self-reliance, rather than respect for authority, was a natural byproduct of the Generation X childhood.” CM: Where is your hometown; how long have you lived in Cabarrus County? Marjorie: I say it’s Durham because my dad worked for IBM; I went to 11 schools in 13 years. I have been in Cabarrus County since 2002. My husband was in the Navy and he’s a physician. He applied for a position at, then, NorthEast Medical Center. CM: How would you describe your personality? Marjorie: x Outgoing q q Introverted x Structured/Disciplined q q Independent CM: What is your definition of family? Marjorie: In my profession I see all sorts of blends of people. I’ve seen the worst of people and the best. Family is a loving unit of people that honor and cherish each other. CM: Are your parents married, divorced or deceased? Marjorie: Married. They just celebrated their 50th anniversary. "
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The Gen Xer VALUES • Contribution • Feedback and recognition • Autonomy ATTRIBUTES • Adaptability • Independence WORK STYLE • High-quality end results • Productivity • Flexible work hours/job sharing • Free agent • Sees self as a marketable commodity • Comfortable with authority but not impressed with titles • Technically competent • Internal promotion • Ethnic diversity Source: valueoptions.com
CM: How old were you when you got your first job? What was it? Marjorie: I babysat (in Florida) on a regular basis when I was 14. Jump ahead to high school – I went to a Science/Math school and worked in the cafeteria. Then IBM provided me with a job each summer…in the library, warehouse for office supplies and then as a receptionist. I say I worked in a glass bubble. They had to install a glass enclosure after someone shot up the place. I worked three jobs in college. Back then, credit cards were offered to
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students all the time. I accumulated a lot of credit card debt but wouldn’t tell my parents. CM: How important is education to you? Marjorie: Extremely important. I grew up where no college was not an option. And my kids are growing up where no college is not an option. CM: Are you married, single, divorced? Marjorie: I’ve been married for 20 years. CM: How old were you when you got married? Marjorie: Twenty-six, right after I graduated from law school. CM: Do you have any children? If so, how many? Marjorie: Two sophomores – one in high school and one in college. CM: What are your thoughts about children before marriage? Marjorie: I believe in marriage before children. It may sound old-fashioned, but it’s how I was raised and what I believe. I’m raising my children to believe the same thing. In my mind, it’s basically your life and I can’t impose my judgment upon anybody. If you’re in your 20s and you decide you want a child and you’re financially stable, that’s your decision. CM: Tell us about your law practice. Marjorie: I have been practicing for 20 years. I worked for a non-profit trade association for the first five years in the DC area. The military moved us and I started my own practice.
We sometimes work from home and we have summer hours. My phone is on vibrate during meetings with clients but if I see the school’s phone number on my phone, I’ll excuse myself. Family comes first. CM: What has been your most radical fashion trend? Marjorie: I don’t think I have any; I didn’t have big hair in the ‘80s. My mom made our clothes and had my sister and I matching. When I reached my teens, I went out and bought my own but I don’t think I was radical. CM: Do you rent or own (home, car)? Marjorie: I own both. I see people who lease and trade in their car regularly, but I don’t like having a car payment. CM: What do you do for fun? Marjorie: I love to read. And I’m a Girl Scout leader. CM: What is your definition of happiness; success? Marjorie: My success equals happiness. Happiness is knowing who you are. I don’t equate it to finances or to ‘stuff.’ CM: How often do you read a book? Physical, eBook or audio? Marjorie: When we lived in DC, I always had a book in my car with me. If there was a traffic jam, I could pull it out and read because I knew we weren’t going anywhere for a while. When my kids were younger, we did books on tape so we all could listen to them. But my kids and I still love the feel of turning the pages.
CM: How important are the Internet and social media to you? Marjorie: I use social media primarily to stalk my kids. I post important information on Facebook but I don’t post a lot. I do other social media because I’m a mom of two daughters and I want to make sure they don’t put out anything inappropriate. Same with my Girl Scouts (6th to 12th graders). I don’t have my own Instagram account, but my youngest daughter does. CM: What’s your favorite way to communicate with friends/family? Do you have a landline phone in your home? Marjorie: Phone first, then I can bluetooth, email and text. I text to get those really quick messages out. Landline? Yes, I do. CM: With regard to the state of the world, please rank the following’s
importance (1-7) to you, no. 1 being most important/of most urgency. Economy Environment Healthcare Politics Religion Social Topics (abortion, gay rights, race relations, transgender, etc.) Terrorism Marjorie: I want to rank all of them as no. 1. They’re all so interconnected. Politics impacts religion. Terrorism spawns from all of them except maybe the environment. It’s hard to pick one. CM: Have you thought about your retirement? Marjorie: I work in estate planning, so yes, yes, yes. In all sorts of aspects that I don’t think most people think about it.
CM: Have you started preparing for it? Marjorie: Yes, because of my work. I know the importance of it because you reach that age…in my world, I help apply for Medicaid. Then a health issue arises and the family is scrambling, trying to figure out how to pay for it. CM: What do you anticipate your retirement will be like? Marjorie: Sitting down with a book, traveling would be nice. It depends on what’s going on with my family. My daughter always thought I worked for her school (there a lot), but I want to meet the teachers, make sure they know who my kids are. My career path is different. I went from part-time to full-time just a few years ago. I can see my husband cutting back and I’m still going. My husband wants to be 60ish when he retires. n
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By Kim Cassell
Generation Y: Life in Real-Time
Generation Y members were born between 1981 and 1994. Also called Echo Boomers, the Millennial Generation and Generation Next, they’ve experienced the Persian Gulf War, 9/11 and the infiltration of modern technology.
According to valueoptions.com, “Generation Y’s Baby Boomer parents have nurtured and protected them, providing for their every emotional, educational, and physical need and want. They have praised and rewarded their children for minimal effort and have increased the expectations of school and community in educating, entertaining and protecting their children. In some respects, this group is opportunistic and will job hop to meet their immediate wants, needs and goals.” LeAnna Kim Smith turns 22 this month, is a college student at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College and is a huge advocate of animal rescue, particularly cats. CM: Where is your hometown? LeAnna: I’m from Concord. CM: How would you describe your personality? LeAnna: x Outgoing q q Introverted q Structured/Disciplined x Independent q CM: What is your definition of family? LeAnna: Family to me are the people who love you unconditionally. It doesn’t have to be by blood. CM: Are your parents married, divorced or deceased? LeAnna: They divorced when I was 15. I live with my grandmother, more as a caregiver. I make her breakfast, help her get ready in the morning. CM: How old were you when you got your first job? What was it? LeAnna: I tutored when I was 14 and I got paid; I worked at Stein-Mart when I was 16. Now I volunteer at the hospital and I get paid to work here (Princeton’s Meow). " 20 Cabarrus Magazine n
LeAnna Kim Smith is from Generation Y. She’s taking a nursing career path while cat rescue is just as strong a passion.
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Generation Y
really want a pair of twins, even if that sounds crazy!
VALUES • Self-expression is more important than self-control • Marketing and branding self is important • Violence is an acceptable means of communication • Fear living poorly – related to lifestyle enjoyment, not wealth • Respect must be earned
CM: What are your thoughts about children before marriage? LeAnna: Today it’s very common to have children before marriage, but I think I might be old-fashioned. I like the ideal of marriage before children. I think it lets you be stable and grounded before you have children. You’ve planned more for that and you’re not surprised. You’re not being trapped into it. You’ve made a decision that you’re financially, emotionally and socially prepared for.
ATTRIBUTES • Adapts rapidly • Craves change and challenge • Creates constantly • Exceptionally resilient • Committed and loyal when dedicated to an idea, cause or product • Accepts others of diverse backgrounds easily and openly • Global in perspective WORK STYLE • Wants to know how what they do fits into the big picture • Exceptional multi-tasker – needs more than one activity happening at a time • Seeks active versus passive involvement • Seeks flexibility in work hours and dress code Source: valueoptions.com
CM: How important is education to you? LeAnna: Really important, especially higher education. I’m studying nursing and I graduate in 2017. I either want to work in forensic medicine, the ER, trauma or I want to work in the NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit). I’m also thinking about working in pediatric oncology. CM: Are you married, single, divorced? LeAnna: Single. I would like to get married one day and have children. I definitely think it is in the picture. I 22 Cabarrus Magazine n
CM: What has been your most radical fashion trend? LeAnna: I just kind of wear jeans and t-shirts. I’m not a fashionista. CM: Do you rent or own (home, car)? LeAnna: Neither. I live with my grandmother and my mom helps pay for my tuition. It’s my father’s car but he lets me use it! CM: What do you do for fun? LeAnna: I inline speed skate (shows me bruised legs). A lot of people don’t realize that it’s a really intense sport. I am just starting so I won’t compete for a while. I’m really into it. We practice at Frye’s. There are regionals, nationals and world. It’s done in age groups; I’m in the senior age group. I’ve been in marching band, all types of dance, track…I’ve done a little bit of everything. CM: What is your definition of happiness; success? LeAnna: To me it’s being content in your life, whether that is flipping burgers or living with your entire family. Whatever makes you content and feel joy. You wake up in the morning and like doing what you’re doing. Not everyone is going to be the CEO of Microsoft. My friend wants to stay home and be a mom. I will be happy when I’m a nurse.
CM: Aside from school, how often do you read a book? Physical, eBook or audio? LeAnna: Frequently. I like physical books. I have a Kindle and I have an iPad, but I like the feel of physical books. CM: How important are the Internet and social media to you? How often do you use them? LeAnna: My phone (which she’s holding) is pretty much attached to my hip. Everyone knows that if they text or email me, I’m going to respond right away. Social media is important to me besides being social…amber alerts, missing children…if someone’s dog is lost. I homed a cat by social media. CM: What’s your favorite way to communicate with friends/family? LeAnna: Texting or Facebook texting. Since I help take care of my grandmother, I text with my aunt, uncle and mom. CM: With regard to the state of the world, please rank the following’s importance (1-7) to you, no. 1 being most important/of most urgency. LeAnna: ____ 2 Economy ____ 6 Environment ____ 1 Healthcare ____ 5 Politics ____ 7 Religion ____ 4 Social Topics (abortion, gay rights, race relations, transgender, etc.) ____ 3 Terrorism CM: Have you thought about retirement? LeAnna: It’s a little scary – the thought that there might not be social security. I like the idea of buying a house and having that when I retire, and a reliable car. CM: What do you anticipate your retirement will be like? LeAnna: I want to retire from fulltime nursing earlier than most (at 55) because I want to foster cats more. And I want to volunteer at Princeton’s. n
Give Me Shelter THERE ARE SEVERAL ANIMAL RESCUES IN CABARRUS COUNTY, USUALLY PAST CAPACITY, FILLED WITH ADOPTABLE DOGS, CATS AND MORE!
The saying goes, “People that say money can’t buy you happiness have never paid an adoption fee.” These are the faces of the abandoned, neglected and abused, and they’re looking for that second chance. If you’re looking for a furry family member, please consider pet adoption. CAESAR, with those beautiful green eyes, is not a warrior, but he certainly is a regal cat! This sweet adult boy simply wants peace and quiet, and maybe another cat or two for a friend. He will make a terrific companion for anyone. Caesar is litter trained, neutered and current on his vaccinations. Come visit him at Kitty City today! Kitty City 36 Union Street S., Concord, NC 28025 (historic downtown Concord) 704-795-5219 • www.kittycityconcord.org
Marilyn is a sweet five-year-old. Despite being a quiet and laid-back girl who gets along with other cats and even small kids, she has drawn the short straw twice in adoptive homes through no fault of her own. Okay, so maybe she needs a little dieting guidance to regain her girlish figure, but this lovely cat deserves a true forever home. Marilyn is litter trained, spayed and current on her vaccinations. Come see her at at Princeton’s Meow. Princeton’s Meow – Cabarrus Humane Society’s Cat Facility 29 Brookwood Avenue N.E. Concord, NC 28025 704-721-6369 www.cabarrushumanesociety.org
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By Kim Cassell
Generation Z: Digital Natives
Because those belonging to Generation Z are so young – born between 1995 and 2012 – Cabarrus Magazine was concerned that many of its questions would not be answerable and made the decision not to interview this age group. Generation Z members have never known a world without computers and cell phones.
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Also called Generation Edge, “Gen Zers have been born into the crisis period of terrorism, the global recession and climate change. They are predicted to spend their young adult years in a time of economic and social renewal. They are also living in an era of changing household structures, and are the students of today, and university graduates, employees and consumers of tomorrow,” generationz.com says. Diverse defines this generation. Deeply entrenched in visual technology more than any other generation – technology that provides seemingly limitless possibilities – they view life personally and professionally on a global scale. “They are motivated to serve, particularly through volunteerism, but appear to be following Generation Y’s trend of political disengagement,” says teammates.org, adding, “Today, we live in a postponed generation. They (Generation Z) push the button on responsibility. While they are good at multitasking, they may find it harder to have old-fashioned, face-to-face conversations. With each new generation…1. Time becomes more valuable; 2. Expectations of
convenience matter; 3. The demand of work meaning intensifies; 4. The hunger of options grows; 5. The sense of entitlement increases; 6. The need for speed and space goes up.” “They are the most connected, educated and sophisticated generation ever. They are the up-agers, with influence beyond their years. They are the tweens, the teens, the youth and young adults of our global society,” generationz.com says. “They are the early adopters, the brand influencers, the social media drivers, the popculture leaders. They comprise nearly 2 billion people globally, and they don’t just represent the future, they’re creating it.” Fashion – and marketing it to Generation Z – is constantly being reevaluated as popular trends a few years ago go by the wayside and new fads hit the scene: colorful hair dyes and makeup, unisexuality, and the resurgence of the mohawk (or feauhawk) and continued popularity of piercings and tattoos. Athleisure is a new term that sums up what a lot of Gen Zers prefer to wear. While enjoying what’s trendy, these young people want comfort and functionality – activewear that you don’t work out in. A report released by NPD Group – a market research company – says that “activewear made up 16 percent of all apparel purchases from 2013 to 2014, totaling $33.7 billion.” “In the 1990s, a super-thin, waiflike body was idealized; now the focus seems to be on thin and toned bodies,” Huffington Post adds. While the sale of jeans decreased by some 6 percent in 2014, yoga pants and leggings flew off store shelves, and continue to. And brands like Abercrombie & Fitch, Aeropostale and American Eagle are scrambling to catch up or potentially lose an important piece of the retail pie. Even Gucci and Christian Dior have added sneakers to their collections. Taprootfoundation.org predicts that
in less than five years the American workplace will look very different as well. Currently, Gen Zers makes up less than 10 percent of the American workforce. However, “By 2019, they will account for nearly 20 percent of all working adults in the States,” the site says, adding, “This knowledge-hungry group will require employers to provide them with professional engagement and satisfaction, and continuing education. In return, they bring to the table: • Technological Prowess: Generation Z members are often called ‘digital natives,’ as they have never known a world without computers and cell phones. Generally, they are quick, efficient and adept at multi-tasking. This will be an asset in today’s fastpaced, technology-reliant workplace. • Global Perspective: Having been raised during a time of global connectivity, they are more aware of current events, social causes and diverse perspectives. As companies become more global, members of Generation Z are likely to be more open to connecting with others who have a different background or perspective from their own. • Flexibility: Generation Zers acknowledge and are generally open to change. Because Gen Zers thrive in environments of near-constant stimulation, they’re natural multitaskers who can fluidly move from one assignment to the next. Companies are demanding work be completed quickly, high levels of innovation and the ability to collaborate with coworkers with a variety of work styles, and Generation Z should be up for the challenge. Next, the challenges with Generation Z. Despite these positive attributes, which will likely bring heightened levels of innovation, tolerance and flexibility into the workplace, members of Generation Z are likely to have a dramatic gap in skills required to be successful in today’s work environment.
So where are the gaps? • Risk-Taking: Due to growing up in a post-9/11 America and during an economic recession, Generation Z is characterized by being risk-adverse and having lowered expectations for themselves. • Critical Thinking: Finally, while this new generation may be adept at gathering information from a multitude of online sources, there is evidence to show that it has come at a cost of their critical thinking skills. Rather than thinking through a problem and offering an original solution, individuals of Gen Z may be more comfortable searching for a solution online. • Personal Skills: Potentially due to the reliance of technology, some personal or social skills may be lacking. As one researcher notes, ‘The basics of personal responsibility, problem solving, time management and interpersonal communication are often missing’ in Generation Z.” •
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The interview process for this issue of Cabarrus Magazine clearly revealed that members of each generation cannot be pigeon-holed. While sets of characteristics might be determined by those who consider themselves experts, reality lies within each of us. Upbringing definitely factors into one’s priorities – parental involvement, parents’ job stability and their goals for their children – as well as the state of the country at the time. But the lines between generations are blurred and, at the end of the day, there’s a sense of commonality. Cabarrus Magazine would like to thank the four individuals who took the time to sit down and let us “pick their brains.” They’re all successes in their own right...no matter their birthdate. n
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On the Go PHHI Welcomes New Researcher Dr. Massimo Iorizzo has joined NC State University’s Plants for Human Health Institute (PHHI) at the NC Research Campus in Kannapolis. An assistant professor in the Department of Horticultural Science, Iorizzo’s research will focus on genetics, genomics, germplasm improvement and breeding of small fruits (strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, etc.) and vegetable crops. Dr. Mary Ann Lila, director of the Plants for Human Health Institute, says, “In addition to the contributions Dr. Iorizzo will make benefiting the berry industry in North Carolina through his research, he will be an enormous asset to our campus-wide Plant Pathways Elucidation Project (P2EP). He will interface with NC State and UNC Charlotte faculty as well as Dole Foods and General Mills scientists in this expanding program, and will mentor and guide the P2EP graduate students and interns.” Iorizzo earned his Ph.D. in plant breeding and plant genetics from the University of Naples, Italy, in 2009. He most recently held an assistant scientist position at the University of Wisconsin Madison.
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Aquesta Bank Hires Concord City Executive Aquesta Bank President & CEO Jim Engel announces the hiring of Michelle Riley as the city executive of Concord. She will help develop and grow the commercial relationships in the Concord area. Riley has been in banking for 20 years, has served as a commercial lender for the last 10 years and was most recently employed by Bank of North Carolina. As a resident of Concord, Riley is extremely involved in the community – the The Boys and Girls Club of Cabarrus County; Concord Rotary; Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Michelle Riley Commerce; the United Way Campaign Cabinet; and the Cabarrus Chamber’s Women’s Conference. “We are fortunate to have Michelle join Aquesta to spearhead our entrance into the Concord market,” Engel adds. “She has a solid banking background, and as a Concord resident she knows the community extremely well. Michelle’s experience will help us deliver the top-notch service that has made Aquesta successful.”
Klicpera Joins Galvan Industries as Customer Service Representative Galvan Industries Inc. announces the hiring of Stephanie Klicpera as customer service representative. She will work with Galvan’s growing list of hot-dip galvanizing customers in the steel fabrication, construction and manufacturing industries to ensure they receive the highest level of service in order processing, shipping, invoicing and customer relations. She brings to the position more than 12 years experience in customer support and office administration. Prior to joining Galvan, Klicpera served five years as customer service administrator at Century Brass, a plumbing Stephanie Klicpera brass fitting distributor in Holbrook, NY. Before starting her career, she attended Adelphi University in Garden City, NY. “I’m very excited about the opportunity to join an industry leader like Galvan,” Klicpera says. “I look forward to working closely with Galvan customers to make sure that their needs are met.”
Ewart Named to Old Courthouse Theatre Board of Directors Mary Kathryn Ewart has been named to the Old Courthouse Theatre’s (OCT) Board of Directors. She will serve a three-year term that began last month. Mary Kathryn Ewart “I’m honored to represent an organization deeprooted in the area’s arts community,” Ewart says, referring to OCT’s 40th season. As a two-time NAWBOCharlotte Rising Star finalist and a three-time AFLAC Founder’s Award winner, Ewart plans for her contribution to be backstage in the wings. OCT is no stranger to the Ewart name. Ewart’s mother, Becky, served as a board member in the 1990s while brother, Jonathan, is a two-time Metrolina Theatre Association award winner and a recipient of OCT’s Mary Snead Boger Lifetime Achievement award. “I have some big shoes to fill,” Ewart says. “But that’s what is so cool about the timing. I’m following in my family’s footsteps, but I’ll have my own contribution to the organization. That’s what OCT and theatre is all about – contributing in your own way.”
Harrisburg Town Hall Named Passport Acceptance Facility Harrisburg Town Hall has become a permanent passport acceptance facility. Citizens are now able to apply for passports at the Town Hall Customer Service Department located at 4100 Main Street, Suite 101, Monday through Friday, from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Both first-time applicants and renewals will be accepted and no appointment is necessary. Those applying for passports can save time by visiting travel.state.gov to print applications, and review the list of required documents and fees prior to applying in person at Town Hall. “The Department of State requested that the Town of Harrisburg provide this service to fill a need in our area,” Finance Director Lee Connor says. “Residents will benefit from the convenience and the program expands services the town can offer residents. The town is pleased to be able to step in and provide this service.” n
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What’s Happening Piedmont Farmers Market August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 • 8:00am 518 Winecoff School Road, Concord • Open year-round. Fresh local produce, honey, free-range eggs, antibiotic- and hormone-free beef, chicken and pork • 704-425-5559; www.piedmont-farmersmarket.com Rotary Square Farmers Market August 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29 120 Union St. S., Concord • Fresh local fruits and vegetables, freerange eggs, antibiotic- and hormonefree beef, chicken and pork • 704-425-5559; www.piedmont-farmersmarket.com Summer Concert Series August 1, 15 • 7:00-10:00pm Village Park 700 West C Street, Kannapolis • Each event is a free night of family entertainment that will help unite the community. Presented by the Kannapolis Parks and Recreation Dept. • 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov HARRISBURG FARMERS MARKET August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 • 3:00-6:00pm 6960 Robinson Church Rd., Harrisburg • Fresh local produce, free-range eggs, honey, hormone- and antibiotic-free beef, chicken and pork • 704-425-5559; www.piedmont-farmersmarket.com Science Focus Program: pin, Pop Boom! August 5 • 10:30-11:30am Village Park 700 West C Street, Kannapolis • Kids of all ages will enjoy these free performances in the park! • 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov 28 Cabarrus Magazine n
Piedmont Farmers Market August 6, 13, 20, 27 • 3:00-6:00pm Les Myers Park 338 Lawndale, Concord • Fresh local produce, dairy, baked goods • 704-425-5559; www.piedmont-farmersmarket.com Movies in the Park: KANNAPOLIS August 7 • 8:30-10:30pm Village Park 700 West C Street, Kannapolis • Featuring Monsters University (PG) • Most nights begin at 7:30pm with music and entertainment before the movie. Movie starts at dusk. • 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov SUMMER CONCERT SERIES August 7 • 7:00-10:00pm Village Park 700 West C Street, Kannapolis • Featuring Face to Face (tribute to Billy Joel & Elton John) • 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov Circle K Back to school Monster truck Bash August 8 The Dirt Track 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • Grab a photo beside the machines, meet the drivers and enjoy all the prerace festivities at The Dirt Track. After the destruction on the track, meet all the drivers at the concourse autograph party. • 704-455-3267; www.charlottemotorspeedway.com
KANNAPOLIS CRUISE-IN August 8 • 3:30-9:30pm Downtown Kannapolis • Classic car show • 704-920-4343; www.downtownkannapolis.org The Cabarrus Quilt Guild August 10 • Dinner at 6:45pm Forest Hills Methodist Church 265 Union Street N., Concord • Annual picnic meeting: each member is asked to bring a dish. • Guild Challenge quilts presentation chamber Business After Hours August 11 • 5:30-7:00pm Ritchie Hill 391 Union Street S., Concord • Members are FREE; non-members are welcome three times per year: first visit is free, second and third visits are $10. • Chemin Duffey: 704-260-8110; coordinator@cabarrus.biz Messy Mingle August 11 • 10:00am-2:30pm 35 Union Street South • During this experience you will be given the opportunity to get your hands dirty and experience downtown in an intimate way. You will receive professional artistic direction in creating something special to take home at Trashed Studio, enjoy a private lunch at Gianni’s, and end the day creating your very own pretzel at Not Just Franks. Time will be provided between every activity to allow for shopping or browsing in our variety of shops and galleries. • 704-784-4208; www.concorddown.com
New Teacher Appreciation Event August 12-13 • 11:00am-1:30pm • August 12: Cabarrus County Schools New Teachers J. M. Robinson High School 300 Pitts School Road S.W., Concord • August 13: Kannapolis City Schools New Teachers A.L. Brown High School 415 E. 1st Street, Kannapolis • Join us in welcoming the newest superheroes of 2015-’16 in Cabarrus County and Kannapolis City Schools to our community. Teachers will be treated to lunch, door prizes and goody bags as well as an introduction to local businesses. • dsumrell@cabarrus.biz Thursdays on Main: Evening August 13 • 6:00-9:00pm Veterans Park 119 North Main Street, Kannapolis • Featuring Too Much Sylvia • Free performances by various musicians: bluegrass to classical to country and rock music • 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov Kannapolis Arts Showcase August 14 • 7:00-9:00pm Sunshine’s Asian Cuisine 215 West A Street, Kannapolis • Artists are invited to come out with two to three pieces of their work. Share and discuss your work with other local artists. Please be ready by 7:00pm. • mknox@modernfilminc.com; www.kannapolisarts.com
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES August 15 • 7:00-10:00pm Village Park 700 West C Street, Kannapolis • Featuring Trick Pony with fireworks • 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov Union Street Live CONCERTS & BLOCK PARTY! August 20 • 6:00-9:00pm Union Street, Downtown Concord • Free outdoor summer concert series featuring regionally recognized musical entertainment in a family-oriented environment, plus a block party! • Featuring Jim Quick & Coastline on Main Stage at 6:00; Pluto for Planet on North Stage at 7:00 • 704-784-4208; www.concorddowntown.com Women’s Connection August 20 • 9:30am • $15 Cabarrus Country Club 3247 Weddington Road, Concord • Medicare Simplified workshop. David Cooper will provide an easy-tounderstand overview of the complex insurance program – Medicare. • Guest speaker: Susan Ely, former chef and now freelance writer. She prefers to write about food rather than cook it herself. Her idea of exercise is picking up a pen and journal writing. • Special Brunch Music: Libby Morrison • Complimentary nursery • For reservations (August 17 deadline) and information, contact Barbara at 704-786-2722 or barb1960@ windstream.net. Sponsored by the Cabarrus Christian Women’s Connection, an affiliate of Stonecroft Ministries
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY August 22 • All Day Historic Downtown Concord • Make a purchase at any participating business and enter into a drawing for $100 in Downtown Concord Dollars to be spent in participating businesses. • 704-784-4208; www.concorddown.com Stories Under the Stars: ShakesCollage August 22 • 7:00-8:00pm Kannapolis Branch Library 850 Mountain Street, Kannapolis • Join us for this free unique literary performing arts event geared toward families with children of all ages. • 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov Movies in the Park: harrisburg August 28 Harrisburg Park 191 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg • A free family-friendly event hosted by Venture Church. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets so you can stretch out, relax and enjoy the feature presentation (TBA), which will begin at sunset. • 704-455-5614; www.harrisburgnc.org CAROLINA BRIDAL FAIR August 30 • 12:00 noon-5:00pm Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 4751 Highway 49 N., Concord • A wide variety of the region’s finest wedding and reception items and services • Guest tickets $10.00 and available at the door only. • Registered brides and grooms are admitted FREE but must pre-register. • www.carolinabridalfair.com n
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At a Glance
Automotive Spas/Maintenance
Splash Auto Spa/Certec Automotive Page 13 2215 Roxie Street, Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-795-2426 • 800-264-6823 www.splashautospa.net www.certecautomotive.com
Banking Services
Wells Fargo Page 13 400 Ashdale Court, Concord, NC 28027 1501 S. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis, NC 28083 50 Union Street, Concord, NC 28025 984 Concord Parkway N., Concord, NC 28027 5075 Highway 49S., Harrisburg, NC 28075 704 N. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis, NC 28083 216 West Avenue, Kannapolis, NC 28081 868 Church Street, Concord, NC 28025 1-800-946-9524 www.wellsfargo.com
Dentists
Business Development
Time to Shine Stables Page 2 3700 Penninger Road, Concord, NC 28025 704-699-7972 timetoshinestables@yahoo.com www.timetoshinestables.com
Concord Downtown Development Corporation Page 12 30 Cabarrus Avenue W., Concord, NC 28025 704-784-4208 • 704-784-2421 (f) www.concorddowntown.com
Charter Schools
Carolina International School Page 2 9545 Poplar Tent Road, Concord, NC 28027 704-455-3847 www.ciscomets.com
Churches
New Hope Worship Center Page 14 452 Brookwood Ave.N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-0155 www.newhopewc.org
Cleaning Services – Office
Blu-J Page 27 51 Union Street S., Concord, NC 28025 704-589-3148
Community Relations
Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce 3003 Dale Earnhardt Boulevard Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-782-4000 www.cabarrus.biz
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Ferguson & Associates, DDS Page 18 244 LePhillip Court, Concord, NC 28025 704-786-8317 www.demandforced3.com/dentist/12865
Digital Satellite Programming dish 1-800-997-7965
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Events/Entertainment
Financial/Lending Institutions
Southern Select Community Credit Union 169 Dale Earnhardt Blvd. Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-734-2300
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275 Branchview Drive S.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-795-0088 www.SouthernselectCCU.com
Funeral Homes
Wilkinson Funeral Home Page 18 100 Branchview Drive N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-3168 www.wilkinsonfuneralhome.com
General Surgeons
The Piedmont Surgical Clinic, PA Page 2 431 Copperfield Boulevard, Concord, NC 28025 704-786-1104 www.piedmontsurgical.com
Organic Grocery Stores
Peachtree Market 363 Church Street N., Suite 180 Concord, NC 28025 704-788-1423 peachtreemarketconcord@gmail.com
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Orthodontists
Turner Orthodontics 319 Coddle Market Dr. N.W., Suite 130 Concord, NC 28027 704-793-1414 • 704-793-1594 (f) www.turner-orthodontics.com
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Pharmacies
Harrisburg Hometown Pharmacy Page 9 5006 Highway 49 S., Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-454-RX4U (7948) www.harrisburgpharmacy.com
Photographers
Michael A. Anderson Photography Page 30 38 Union Street S., Concord, NC 28025 704-701-5908 mike@michael-a-anderson.com www.michael-a-anderson.com
Print & Technology Services
Modern Impressions Page 14 5029 West W.T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28269 800-840-2554 www.modernimpressions.com
Professional Sports
Kannapolis Intimidators P.O. Box 64, Kannapolis, NC 28082 704-932-3267 www.intimidatorsbaseball.com
Testing & Research
Spectrum Discovery Center 222 Oak Avenue, Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-250-1200 www.spectrumdiscoverycenter.com
Theatres – Live
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Old Courthouse Theatre Page 29 49 Spring Street N.W., Concord, NC 28025 704-788-2405 www.oldcourthousetheatre.org n
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