February '17

FEBRUARY 2017

Big Brothers Big Sisters:

It All Starts With a Little

Adoption:

Breaking Bread: Chefs Bouali and Childers Dish it Out

Building a Family

Boys & Girls Club: A Melting Pot of Area Youth

Cabarrus Business: On the Go

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Word on the Street February 2017 Volume 17 n Issue 2 President Pam Tolen Publisher Jason Huddle

Advertising Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle Elaine Marlowe Contributing Writers Kim Cassell Jason Huddle and George Veltri Contributing Photographers Michael A. Anderson Photography Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County Cabarrus Big Brothers Big Sisters

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, Kimberly Brouillette at 704-305-7599 or Elaine Marlowe at 980-406-8035.

Visit us at www.cabarrusmagazine.com.

All rights reserved. ©2017, 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.

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Rachel Fesko

Managing Editor/Art Direction Kim Cassell

My pastor, Dale Jenkins at New Hope Worship Center, always says that the greatest investment we can make is into that of the next generation. While it is inevitable that they will one day think they know better than us, and will undoubtedly believe they are much smarter than the generation that comes after them, it is our duty now, in this time, to care for and nurture them the best we can.

One of the things I love about Cabarrus County is that I see investments being made all around us. That’s why we decided this issue should be all about those who are taking that extra step to make sure the next generation isn’t left behind.

We talked with the great people at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cabarrus County and the Cabarrus Boys & Girls Club, receiving a firsthand look at the way these organizations are not only helping to care for children, but also have a hand in raising them into adulthood.

We also learned more about adoption, whether it be private or through the Department of Social Services. There are numerous children in Cabarrus County that deserve to grow up in a happy and safe home, whether it be with their biological parents or a family seeking a child to love. My mother-in-law was adopted by her biological aunt, and I am so thankful that she loved her niece so much that she made her a daughter.

There is always a child in our community that is desperate for someone to take time with them – if only just to play or help them with homework. We can certainly step out of our own busy lives to make a difference as a volunteer, mentor or financial benefactor. If we’re not investing in the children of today, how can we expect a better tomorrow?

Sincerely,

Jason Huddle

This Issue...

Kid Stuff 6

Big Brothers Big Sisters: It All Starts With a Little

11

Breaking Bread: Chefs Bouali and Childers Dish it Out

12

Adoption: Building a Family

20

Boys & Girls Club: A Melting Pot of Area Youth

25

Paw Prints: Cabarrus’ Adoptable Cats

26

Cabarrus Business: On the Go

28

February Events Calendar

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By Kim Cassell

Big Brothers Big Sisters: It All Starts With a Little

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that, as of July 2015, persons under 18 years of age make up 22.9 percent of our nation’s population. And according to countyhealthrankings.org, 26 percent of children in Cabarrus County live in single-parent households.

Connie Rheinecker, Cabarrus County area director for Big Brothers Big Sisters

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Single parents often find themselves working long hours or more than one job to make ends meet. Besides giving rise to absenteeism at home, it can also affect the family’s financial stability. Cabarrus Health Alliance provides the latest available numbers: 2009-2013. While lower than the national average, as well as the state average of 24.9 percent, children living in poverty in Cabarrus County still measures 18.3 percent.

Enter mentoring. According to mentoring.org, one in three young people in the U.S. are growing up without a mentor. That can lead to truancy, dropping out of school, drug use and withdrawal from the community. Flip the negatives with mentoring and you have individuals that are more likely to attend college, participate in sports and become mentors themselves.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America is more than 100 years old and was initiated

by Ernest Coulter. As a court clerk in New York City, he saw the growing number of boys getting in trouble and coming through the legal system. He realized adult guidance could curb that.

Coinciding with Coulter’s efforts, the Ladies of Charity organization was taking girls under its wing by way of the New York Children’s Court. In 1977, Big Brothers Association and Big Sisters International merged and became Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Today, the mentoring organization has locations in all 50 U.S. states and 12 countries internationally.

The Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mission “is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported one-to-one relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.” "

Big Sister Karen Caulder enjoys Big Day at the Park with Little Sister Kaylee.

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A Sister Story How our relationship started Big: A friend, Sonja Rhodes, invited a representative from Big Brothers Big Sisters to speak at our church about BBBS’s Amachi program. I enjoy working with children and thought it was a great opportunity to give back to the community, so I signed up.

Little: The first time we hung out occurred about 10 years ago. My mom was getting me ready to go somewhere with Consuelo. She didn’t tell me where.

I just knew my brother wasn’t going. At first I was a little shy because I didn’t know her. She told me we were going to Carowinds. I was so excited. That was my second time ever going to Carowinds.

How our relationship grew Big: Our relationship has grown from me reaching out to her, to her reaching out to me. In the beginning, I would always reach out to her and ask, ‘Do you want to hang out, let’s do this, how are you, etc.’ Now it’s reciprocal. She texts me, ‘Guess what, are we hanging out today, can we go…., etc.’

Little: Our relationship grew because Consuelo continued to reach out to me.

We hung out at least once a week.

What kind of impact it has had on me Big: Mentoring Kemryn has allowed me to ‘pay it forward.’ My parents were functional addicts (alcohol and drugs). They were loved and revered at work and in the community, but at home they were absentee parents. God used several people from church, school, our neighborhood and community to mentor me. These people took me under their wings and exposed me to a positive environment: field trips, family outings/vacations, birthday parties for their children, community events, church services and activities, camp, etc. As a result, I’m a two-time college graduate, very involved in my church/ community and work for an amazing company. I wanted to help a child like I was helped.

Little: Having Consuelo as a mentor has had an amazing impact on me. All the time, she encourages me to try new things. When my mom was too scared to teach me how to drive, she gave Consuelo permission to teach me. Most importantly, my Big Sister encouraged me to get more involved in school and take more challenging classes. First, honor classes and then AP classes. She has helped me and guided me through applying to all of my choice colleges. For about four months, we met once a week to work on college applications and scholarships. I’ve been accepted to five (colleges). If it wasn’t for Consuelo, I probably wouldn’t be as focused in school as I should be.

What I enjoy doing with her Big: We met 10 years ago, and have shared so many great experiences with one another. It’s hard to narrow it down to one. Our most recent endeavor has been applying to colleges and for scholarships. I love how she lights up every time she gets accepted into a different college. Her heart is set on attending Spelman; we are still waiting to hear from them. Her second choice is NC A&T; she has already been accepted there. I’m looking forward to her making her final decision and attending orientation with her.

Little: When I was younger, Consuelo used to always let me help her cook. I enjoyed those times a lot. I enjoy going to the movies with her and hanging out. Every year, we go to McAdenville to see the Christmas lights.

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Consuelo and Kemryn have remained friends for a decade, as Kemryn prepares to graduate from high school.

Connie Rheinecker is Cabarrus County area director for Big Brothers Big Sisters. With regard to how the Cabarrus County branch came to be, she says, “The Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Charlotte (BBBSGC) Board had a vision to expand their mentoring program, and Cabarrus County was determined to be the best community to bring that growth. So, in 2002, the BBBSGC Board approached Cabarrus County – specifically John Robbins – about starting a BBBS operation in Cabarrus County.”

Robbins accepted and quickly approached key community members, recruiting Diane Honeycutt, Dick Snyder, Pastor Anthony, Valerie Melton and Dakeita Vanderburg-Johnson.

These individuals became the Cabarrus BBBS Steering Committee; Carol Lee was named CEO. Together, they raised funds to hire a small staff and their doors opened in 2004.

Today, the Steering Committee is called the Cabarrus Leadership Council (CLC). The council took over its own fundraising and recruitment after the BBBSGC CEO merged Cabarrus County’s funds, fundraising and other roles into the BBBSGC organization in 2008. That merge negatively impacted this county’s program, so local action was taken.

“The CLC advocated for a Cabarrus County area director position,” Rheinecker explains. “Responsible for implementing and managing the strategic direction for Cabarrus County, including the cultivation of new

Above left: Big Brother Jim Perry and Little Brother Tumani at Big Day at the Park; above right: Big Sister Georgette Foster and Little Sister Sydni at the club’s holiday party.

donors, volunteers and community partnerships, as well as stewardship of existing relationships, this position has played a key role in increasing Cabarrus County’s awareness of the program, as well as increasing revenue and the number of children served.”

So, what does it mean to be a “Big,” the abbreviated term for big brother

and big sister? It’s basically being there for your “Little,” spending quality time together, maybe doing homework, going to a movie or simply talking.

The first step in becoming a Big is to apply. This includes a written application that requires three references, a copy of your driver’s license and printed proof of car

insurance liability coverage. It also includes a background check.

The next step is a Pre-match Orientation. You’ll be educated about the services offered by Big Brothers Big Sisters and trained on child safety and healthy youth/mentor relationships.

Once that’s completed, a match meeting is set up for you and your "

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Little Sisters Brianna, Sydni and Ashiya have fun at Movie Night.

BBBS enrollment and match support specialist. This interview is about you, your interests, background and personality. The enrollment and match specialists take that information, make a decision as to your acceptance in the program and use your information to determine a good match for you.

Once you’re paired with a Little, your match support specialist will be there for first introductions and to make suggestions on first activities that would suit you both. The specialist will be there as you get to know and make plans with your Little, answering any questions or concerns you may have.

The application and enrollment process typically takes four to eight weeks to complete.

“Children/Littles are most frequently referred to our agency by a parent or guardian,” Rheinecker says. “Ninetynine percent of the children we serve come from single-parent households, and the parent identifies that their child would benefit from a mentoring relationship. We also receive a

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significant number of referrals from the school systems’ staff. Teachers, social workers and counselors recognize the need through their daily interactions with the child and then recommend BBBS as a resource to the parent or guardian.”

As of January 1, 2017, Cabarrus County BBBS has served 150 children this fiscal year. Rheinecker says that number has surpassed the number of children served in all of fiscal year 2015/’16.

“It demonstrates not only the need for mentors, but the growing support Cabarrus County residents are showing the Big Brothers Big Sisters program through both volunteerism and financial giving,” she says. “We are only halfway through our fiscal year, so I anticipate that we will exceed our goal of 10 percent growth and 158 children served by year-end.”

As to who is needed most at this point, Rheinecker says, “We definitely need more men in our community to volunteer as Big Brothers for the young

boys in our program. Often our Little Brothers come from single-mother homes where there is no adult male figure to guide them and teach ‘guy stuff’ as they grow up to become young men.

“Last year, our Littles were 55 percent African-American; 27 percent Caucasian; 12 percent multi-ethnic; 5 percent Hispanic/Latino; and 1 percent other. Although our matches are not required to be the same race, there are parents who request to have a Big the same race as their child if at all possible. Overall, we have a shortage of volunteers so I would encourage and welcome men and women alike to consider becoming a ‘Big’ mentor.”

The national average length of a BBBS mentoring match is 20 months.

“Cabarrus County’s mentoring matches have an average length of about three years,” Rheinecker says. “Strong mentoring relationships can have a profound impact on a young person’s life. Many of our matches last much longer than three years, with some continuing their relationship outside of the BBBS program once a child graduates high school.

“Our primary goal is to successfully and safely create and support growing numbers of life-changing mentoring relationships in Cabarrus County,” she adds. “We also include strategic enhancements of our program activities so that they are clearly focused around literacy, reduction in truancy and workforce development. Finally, we aim to raise the necessary funds to support continued growth of our programming, so that we can reach and impact more children in our community.”

Do you have some extra time to devote to a child here in Cabarrus County? Would you like to donate toward the programs offered at Big Brothers Big Sisters? The Cabarrus County office is located at 200 Branchview Drive N.E. in Concord, or call 704-305-3411 for more information. n

Sponsored by Chez Francois

Breaking Bread Hachis Parmentier Ingredients 5 medium potatoes, peeled 2 lbs. ground beef 1 cup vegetable stock 2 Tbsp. tomato paste 1 cup Gruyere cheese, grated 1 cup bread crumbs 1 1/2 cups milk 2 cups heavy cream 6 Tbsp. butter 1 Tbsp. flour 1 large white onion, sliced thin 2 Tbsp. olive oil (one for the plate) 3 garlic cloves, Nutmeg, salt, pepper

Francois Bouali is an authentic French chef who makes his own bread, pastry, classic French dishes, and even his own cheese.

Lin Childers began his career at age 14 at Carolina Country Club, then went on to work in fine dining establishments and country clubs before joining Chez Francois.

Instructions Puree: Boil potatoes in salted water. Drain, then mash them while adding the milk and cream. When smooth, add the butter and mix. Add a pinch of nutmeg, salt and pepper. Keep the puree warm.

Stuffing: Saute the onion in one tablespoon of olive oil. Add the flour and two garlic cloves, thinly minced, and mix. Add vegetable stock, two tablespoons of tomato paste, a pinch of salt and pepper, and mix. Sautee for 4 minutes, add the ground beef and a pinch of pepper. Take the remaining garlic clove and brush the inside of a baking dish, followed by a tablespoon of olive oil. Put a layer of meat into the baking dish, then cover with a layer of puree. Cover the plate with grated cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake at 350Ëš for 35 minutes. Serves 8.

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By Kim Cassell

Adoption: Building a Family “Adoption has the dimension of connection – not only to your own tribe, but beyond, widening the scope of what constitutes love, ties and family.

It is a larger embrace. By adopting, we stretch past our immediate circles and, by reaching out, find an unexpected sense of belonging with others.”

– Isabella Rossellini

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There are various avenues that prospective parents can take in approaching adoption here in Cabarrus County. One is private or direct placement while the other is through Cabarrus County Human Services (DHS).

Unfortunately, adverse familial situations and events are what ultimately bring children into the foster care system. Cheryl Harris is child welfare services program administrator for Cabarrus County Social Services. When asked the average number of children typically in Cabarrus County’s foster system at any given time, she says there are approximately 90. About 55 percent of those children with a permanence goal of adoption are adopted by their foster families. (Visit fosteringperspectives.org.)

“There are probably 30 foster families in Cabarrus County and the need is between 40 and 50,” Harris says. “Since many of our foster parents adopt, we are always in need for more to meet our continued need for placement resources for children. Having enough foster parents locally helps us keep children in their home school with service providers they already know, and increases the ability to stay connected to family and their community.”

When DHS ascertains that a child is not safe in his or her own home, it will go to court and ask a judge to allow DHS to assume custody of the child. And while substance abuse, homelessness and physical or sexual abuse are often the precursors to children entering foster care, social workers work with birth families whose issues are surmountable. So, depending on the specific situation, a child "

In North Carolina, the number of children in foster care increased every month in 2016 compared to the corresponding month in 2015, with more than 2,400 children eligible for adoption.

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may be in foster care only a few days or he/she may eventually be adoptable.

Brian Maness is president and CEO of Children’s Home Society of North Carolina. As the state’s largest private foster care and adoption services provider, it offers statistics regarding the number of children placed in the foster care program continuing to increase.

A press release issued last month by the Children’s Home Society says, “In North Carolina, the number of children in foster care increased

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every month in 2016 compared to the corresponding month in 2015, with over 2,400 children eligible for adoption.

“About five years ago, we had just over 8,000 children in foster care in our state,” he adds. “Today, there are about 10,500 children in foster care, an increase of more than 25 percent in the last five years.”

For those interested in becoming foster parents, Cabarrus County Department of Human Services offers

10-week (30 hours) training programs two to three times a year. Training covers child abuse and neglect and birth parent relations, as well as how to best provide support and healing to the child.

“The period of time from submitting an application to becoming fully licensed can take up to six months,” Harris says.

In North Carolina, foster parents must be at least 21 years of age; maintain a stable home and income level, as well as a drug-free environment; submit fingerprints and pass a criminal records check; and complete the aforementioned training and obtain licensure from the state. Foster parents are compensated financially to cover the child’s room, board and living expenses. That amount is determined by the state.

“We are also involved in numerous state and county initiatives; the focus is always to improve our practice of helping children and families of Cabarrus County,” Harris says.

They include: • Project Broadcast: Enhances the knowledge and practice of the agency and community in their response and treatment of trauma • Assisted Guardianship: Allows greater potential for relatives to provide permanency for children through financial compensation that has not previously been available • Enhanced services for foster children ages 18-21: Strongly encourages the county to continue to provide services

“There are probably 30 foster families in Cabarrus County and the need is between 40 and 50.

Since many of our foster parents adopt, we are always in need for more to meet our continued need for placement resources for children.”

for children who were in foster care when they became 18. Placement and support services are now available with court oversight.

• The Public/Private Community Partnership: Better ensures that children placed with our private placement partners have their needs met.

There are also continued shortcomings. “State Mental Health Reform is, and has been, a challenge both for professionals and for families,” Harris explains. “The State Mental Health system needs to be assessed for efficiency and service outcomes. If operating as it should, families would have ongoing case management services to manage the mental health crises as they occur. It will be a consistent person managing the ongoing needs of the family.

Cabarrus County has been a strong advocate for families and children to have their mental health needs met by our present state system.”

Another is the fact that a large portion of children with particular needs are having to be placed in foster homes outside Cabarrus County. “It

- Cheryl Harris Welfare Services Program Administrator, Cabarrus County Social Services

complicates the ability to visit with their family members. Sometimes, it also complicates the ability to get needed services for our children,” Harris says.

Additionally, DHS would like to see State Medicaid services extended for parents of children in foster care.

Without it, reunification is delayed and behavioral changes are challenged.

The department also looks to reestablish the North Carolina Child Welfare Education Collaborative.

“This program fed the county child welfare agencies with potential employee candidates who had been exposed to the demands of the program. Many seen today have no experience or exposure to this program, resulting in high turnover. Turnover, in turn, affects the ability to provide families and children quality services.

Cabarrus County is aware of the challenge created when state funding was ceased,” Harris explains.

Even with a list of ongoing challenges, Harris says, “We are very fortunate to have a community that is supportive of the child welfare program, and the services and work

done by it. This community is a true partner to the child welfare program and assists us by supporting staff and families involved with our program.

Not many communities step forward when a child requires a bed, or a family needs a washer or a refrigerator. This community does.”

Cabarrus County Social Services is located at 1303 S. Cannon Boulevard in Kannapolis. For more information about the foster care program, call 704-920-1400 or send an email to foster@cabarruscounty.us.

Direct or Private Placement Amy Davis is an attorney who whose practice concentrates on the areas of adoption and immigration law. With her firm in Concord, she spent more than a decade aiding other families with the legal process of adoption before she and her husband experienced it firsthand, bringing home their son and daughter.

“There are essentially two ways to proceed with adoption,” she shares.

“One is to use an adoption agency where a birth mother gives her legal rights over to the adoption agency, "

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Free Seminar Adoption 101: Understanding the Basics of Adoption Date: Saturday, February 25 Time: 10:00am Location: Panera Bread 8034 Concord Mills Boulevard, Concord This free informational seminar is being hosted by Concord’s Step by Step Adoption Consultants and attorney, Amy Davis. Join them for a continental breakfast and fill your cup full of valuable information to ensure your adoption is a success.

Please RSVP by February 18 to melanie@stepbystepadoption.com, or call Melanie Moore at 855-787-7837 or Amy Davis at 704-784-9440. which then places the baby with an adoptive family. The other is to do a direct or private placement, where the birth parents give their rights directly to the adoptive parent(s).

“If a prospective adoptive parent(s) needs help finding a baby, they can sign on with an agency licensed to

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find birth mothers and take custody of children for adoptive placement. Or, depending on the laws of the state, an adoptive parent can hire an adoption facilitator, advertiser or even an attorney to assist in finding a child that a birth parent will place directly with them. Sometimes an adoptive parent(s)

from North Carolina adopts children from other states, and adoptive parents from other states adopt children born to North Carolina birth parents. In those cases, not just the laws of North Carolina will apply so it can be tricky.”

Agencies seek out birth mothers, providing them with services that may include counseling, and legal and financial assistance for maternityrelated needs. They may also give them the decision-making power to choose who they want to adopt their child.

That decision may be based on the adopter’s age, religion, personality... even appearance.

“Agencies will often do designated adoptions where the birth mother gets to pick the adopter,” Davis says. “The typical waiting period is between 12 and 24 months.”

Which way a prospective adopter turns depends on the circumstances of the adoption. If a child is being adopted by a relative, direct placement is the way to go. If an adopter needs help in finding a birth parent, an agency adoption provides the means to match a family to a child based on an application, profile and home study.

However, the agency may also choose not to accept a potential adopter as a client based on the results of those.

“Prospective adoptive parent(s) are asked to prepare a profile, which is a story that basically all sources of babies for adoptions ask for,” Davis says. “It includes who they are and why they want to adopt. It will usually have a picture of them – with or without kids – pictures of their house, what they like to do, their family values, pictures of a baby’s room. It’s an advertisement of ‘why you should choose me.’ ” According to parents.com, “The home study is an evaluation (required by state law) of you as a prospective adoptive family and of the physical and emotional environment into which the child would be placed. It consists of a series of interviews with a social worker, including at least one interview in your home.

“Many of the questions asked in the home study are personal and may seem intrusive. These questions are necessary for the social worker’s evaluation of you as a prospective parent. Some of the questions are about your income, assets, health and the stability of the marriage (if married) and/or family relationships. Physical exams to ensure that you are healthy are usually required. Some states require that prospective adoptive parents undergo a fingerprint and background check to ensure that they do not have a felony conviction for domestic violence or child abuse. A home study is usually completed in a few months.”

If a potential adopter is unfamiliar with the process of adoption, Davis also works separately as an adoption consultant. Adoption consultants have become more common and basically walk an adoptive family through the adoption process.

Davis is a big advocate of adoption consultants because of the many issues that arise during the adoption process, like, How do I make a profile? Where should I get a home study? Should I use an agency or pursue a private adoption? Can I pay living expenses to a birth mother? Am I willing to take a baby when the mom has used drugs?

Davis points out that, along with the general population, there has been an increase in the use of opiates among birth mothers.

Fees and expenses are attached to each step of the adoption process, including obtaining a home study,

pre-natal care of the birth mother, and those charged by the agency, facilitator, advertiser or attorney. In North Carolina, facilitators cannot charge a fee, but in South Carolina, for example, attorneys can charge a fee to recruit birth mothers, along with fees for legal services. Believe it or not, back in the day, couples would advertise in newspapers hoping that a birth mother would see it and contact them.

With regard to the cost to adopt a child in Cabarrus County, Davis says, “A good range is between $25,000 and $45,000.”

For those less inclined to go through a potentially long waiting period, there are facilitators.

Different groups have sprung up called facilitators,” Davis says. “They recruit birth mothers. They don’t have agency licenses, and all states rule on whether there can be facilitators – some states don’t allow them – and whether they can charge money. In North Carolina, you can facilitate an adoption all day long, but you can’t charge for it.

Attorney Amy Davis of Davis Nardone in Concord

Other states can charge a hefty fee, like $25,000.”

Adoption facilitators are defined as “unlicensed and unregulated companies that match prospective adoptive families with women considering adoption,” according to americanadoptions.com. “Most "

February 2017 17 n

adoption facilitators advertise to locate a birth mother on behalf of their adoptive clients. Once a birth mother selects a family, the facilitator will refer both the adoptive family and birth family to a local professional (a law firm or licensed adoption agency) and remove themselves from the rest of the adoption process.”

“In the past, facilitators would normally find a birth mother and stick with her through the whole process,” Davis adds. “Today, there are advertisers – not facilitators – who find them and charge the adoptive family an advertising fee but do not stay on once the match is made.”

There are legitimate facilitators that are proficient at locating potential birth mothers, and the process typically moves along faster. However, being unlicensed means facilitators aren’t governed or required to have their files inspected. Adoption agencies are required by law to have their marketing information, and case and personnel files reviewed.

The face of adoption has also changed over time. Communication between adoptive parents and the child’s birth parents is no longer taboo, and children are often given the option of contacting their birth parents once they’re grown, if they and the birth parents so choose.

“Today’s open adoptions are more like emailing and setting up photosharing websites. Birth mothers typically don’t choose to see the child; it’s more like a birthday card or updates a couple times a year,” Davis shares.

Davis urges prospective adopters to not get mired down in the modus operandi. She realizes how many families would prefer to adopt a baby or toddler, so if direct or agency placement is what you seek, there are practical ways to go about it. She says, “People need to decide how they want to find a baby, and do their research on who has a good reputation and who doesn’t.” n

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Flu Shots: It’s Not Too Late!

Although it is usually recommended that people be vaccinated for the flu in early fall, “as long as the flu virus is still active and causing illnesses, it’s not too late to be vaccinated,” according to The Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

George Veltri, director of immunization programs and a pharmacist with Cannon Pharmacy, agrees. “We are still seeing several patients coming into our stores with prescriptions for the flu vaccine,” he says.

“Over the years, I have asked a number of our patients who come in with the flu why they did not get a shot. The major reasons are, no. 1, I am afraid of needles; no. 2, The flu shot that I had in the past gave me the flu; and, no. 3, I had the flu in the past and the symptoms weren’t that bad.”

Veltri says the needles used today are very thin, and most of his patients report “hardly feeling a thing.” He also says it is a myth that the flu shot can cause the flu.

“The CDC has repeatedly proven this,” he explains. “It is an inactivated, dead, vaccine…it can take up to two weeks for the antibodies in the flu vaccine to become effective.”

According to Veltri, it is more likely that some patients wait until several people they have been in contact with become sorely ill, then they come in for a shot.

Two days later, they come down with the flu and then blame the shot. “I always say, ‘It’s not the shot that gave you the flu, it was Harry at work who is to blame.’

Finally, Veltri says that many of those who say they had the flu in the past and it “wasn’t that bad” most likely had a bad cold or upper respiratory infection. “Ask those who have really had the flu and they will tell you, ‘It’s the same as a bad cold, times 10,’ ” he says.

While influenza virus symptoms are severe, the CDC reports that less than 50

percent of Americans got the flu vaccine in 2016. While most consider the flu as an inconvenience, it kills thousands each

By Jason Huddle and George Veltri

Sponsored by Cannon Pharmacy

year, especially the very young and elderly.

Veltri stresses, “I urge you to come and see us and get your shot – it’s not too late.” n

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By Kim Cassell

Boys & Girls Club:

A Melting Pot of Area Youth In 2015, the Afterschool Alliance released a survey that stated that 15.1 million U.S. children had no adult supervision after school; that was a 6 percent increase from 11 years prior. More than 50 percent of those children were from middle- and upper-class families.

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The N.C. Department of Health & Human Services says, “Although there is no age specified in juvenile code that addresses the age a child may be left home alone, North Carolina fire code states that a child under the age of eight shall not be left alone without appropriate supervision due to the risk of danger by fire. Parents and caretakers must look at the child’s maturity, the safety of the community and access to emergency assistance. A child may be mature enough to stay alone, but not to care for younger siblings.”

The Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County was formed in 1946 by W.M. Waterfield, long before the economic stresses of today’s families started seeing both parents working outside the home. In fact, the original club was open to boys only and was called Concord Community Boys Club. Its temporary home was in the Concord Armory on Church Street until the Boys Club opened on Spring Street with a membership of 700. The facility was rebuilt at the same location in 2002. "

The club’s playground is an important part of the facility, the goal being to keep kids active physically. Opposite page: The Learning Center provides daily homework help for youth as part of the Afterschool Program.

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Top: Children line up to come into the club after arriving on one of its buses. Transportation is provided every day after school from 17 elementary and middle schools. Bottom: The Tarheel Keystone Club is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Jim Helms (shown) has served as its director for the duration.

Over the decades, girls and minorities were admitted to the club whose mission is “to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential

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as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”

Valerie Melton has been executive director of our county’s club since 1994. She says, “The Boys & Girls

Club of Cabarrus County provides services and programs to help boys and girls make positive life choices.

From education and career programs to health and life skills, our staff and volunteers help inspire youth by providing an opportunity to belong, succeed and serve their community.

“One out of four kids leaves school every day with no place to go. These hours serve as the essential link between school and home, offering the greatest opportunity to influence the future of our youth, our communities and our country. Boys & Girls Club programs give youth the resources and support they need to do well in school, choose healthy lifestyles and become great citizens. We offer our program to all school-age youth in our community.”

In the 1970s and ‘80s, the club’s Keystone Club sponsored a variety of athletic teams, from football to lacrosse. When Melton took the helm, the club was steered more toward afterschool, teen and summer programs but the Keystone Club is still alive and well today.

“Keystone is a Boys & Girls Clubs of America national program in which high school-age youth participate – both in and out of the club – in activities in three focus areas: academic success, career preparation and community service” Melton explains.

“Located in the Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County, The Keystone Room is open daily with weekly meetings on Sundays and service projects throughout the year. With the guidance of Jim Helms, Keystone members aim to have a positive impact on members, the club and community.”

Helms serves as the club’s senior program director and has been part of the club for more than four decades. As founder and director of the Keystone Program, he has had a significant influence on thousands of Cabarrus County teenagers.

“Members of the Keystone Program organize and implement several special

events throughout the year, including an annual blood drive and Veterans Day program,” Melton says. “Members also volunteer as tutors in the club’s Afterschool Program, and at special club events such as Pancake Day and the Festival of Trees. Our Athletic programs include basketball, football and volleyball for boys and girls ages five to 12. Our team sports teach kids good team-building skills and game fundamentals. Each program’s ultimate goal is to ensure that all youth have an enjoyable experience every time they step onto the field or court.”

Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County has an annual membership of about 2,000 youth with more than 400 kids from kindergartners to high school seniors participating in club activities daily.

“We currently transport kids from 17 area schools with our buses,” Melton adds.” Last year we enrolled over 1,000 youth in our Afterschool and Summer programs, providing close to 1 million hours of services. Our Athletic Program serves an additional 700 youth, and the Keystone Teen Program serves another 200 youth.”

The Boys & Girls Club Afterschool Program operates through the academic year, Monday through Friday, from 2:30 to 6:30pm. Afterschool programs include the Learning Center, Technology Center, three gyms, a middle school room, and Games, Life Skills, Performing Arts and Arts & Crafts rooms.

The club’s Summer Program runs Monday through Friday, 7:30am to 6:30pm, from June through August.

Offered to rising 1st through rising 9th graders, breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack are included at no extra cost. Besides the aforementioned club amenities, kids take weekly field trips and spend a few weeks at Camp Spencer.

Camp T.N. Spencer Park is located off Rimer Road in Concord. A private summer camp for the Boys & Girls Club since the 1940s, it was "

Success Stories Monisha was five years old when her mother signed her up for the Boys & Girls Club’s Afterschool Program.

Monisha admits that she was shy and it was hard for her to make new friends.

Now, seven years later, however, she is a confident middle school student and feels right at home at the Boys & Girls Club. She is a leader among her peers and enjoys playing with all of the friends she has made over the years.

Melisa, Monisha’s mother, says, “The Boys & Girls Club has made a difference in me and my daughter’s lives by offering low-cost programs and a safe environment for my daughter to play and to do homework. She has positive male and female role models. To me, this is priceless.”

Monisha makes good grades in school and already has a plan for herself for when she grows up. “I would like to say ‘thank-you’ to the staff at the Boys & Girls Club,” she says. “When I grow up and become a famous WNBA player, my first check will be written to the Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County!”

David has been in the care of his godmother, Jackie, since infancy. When Jackie went back to work two years ago, she faced a dilemma. David was starting kindergarten and she needed to find a safe and affordable place for him to be after school. Jackie had become disheartened with daycares and other programs that were too expensive. She also found that it was hard to depend on babysitters and other parents to look after David.

Once she registered David for the Boys & Girls Club’s football program, she found out about the club’s Afterschool Program. Jackie’s problem was solved.

“The Boys & Girls Club presents a safe environment and encourages positive attitudes,” Jackie says. “It provides a clean atmosphere. It teaches David to be the best he can be in sports and in everyday life.”

For two years, David has enjoyed playing in the club’s football program and has attended the Afterschool and Summer programs and Camp Spencer. “I get special attention from the staff and coaches,” David, six, says. “They love me. They want me to be a good boy always.”

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dedicated as a public county park in 2003 but still serves as part of the Boys & Girls Club Summer Program.

As a non-profit, the club relies on donations, grants and volunteerism to continue to offer our county’s children the programs and activities under its umbrella. One of the most popular fundraisers is Pancake Day, being held on March 16 this year. From 6:00am

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to 7:30pm, club board members, staff and volunteers cook pancakes and sausage for some 5,000 hungry appetites at the facility.

And there is always a need for help.

“If you are interested in inspiring, motivating and impacting young lives, you can become a Boys & Girls Club volunteer,” Melton says.

“We offer a variety of volunteer

opportunities, including tutoring, mentoring, coaching, special events, administrative assistance and more. To become a volunteer, contact the club to schedule volunteer orientation. Most importantly, we need the financial support to be able to continue to provide our programs to the increasing number of youth in our community.

“Our mission clearly states, ‘all young people.’ We are committed to this mission. The results can be seen in the diversity of all areas of our membership. We are often referred to as a ‘melting pot’ of youth in Cabarrus County. Our current membership includes a cross-section of the youth population in terms of gender, age, and socioeconomic and ethnic backgrounds. We are serving youth who are most in need.”

The Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County is located 247 Spring Street N.W., in Concord. For more information, call 704-721-2582. 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.

My, what big eyes you have! ZIVA is a sweet five-year-old girl who is sometimes a bit nervous in new situations. But who could blame her?

She survived a hurricane, a trip halfway across the country in a tractor-trailer, and then found herself plopped in a facility surrounded by strange people and lots of other cats. Ziva has a lot of love to give and has shown us that, with patience, she will shower you with it. While initially a bit shy, she has come a long way already. Come see this quiet girl 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

Simba, about five months old, was found in the middle of the road; she had been hit by a car and her back leg was dangling. She was taken to a veterinarian where they reset the leg and put a pin it it. The pin has since been removed and Simba is, thankfully, using the leg. This baby is full of energy and, although she has a slight limp, gets around fine. She is up-to-date on vaccines and her adopter will be given a spay voucher. We held off on her spay so she’d have more time to get the use of her leg back to normal. This sweet thing is now ready for adoption and waiting for her “forever” home.

HS Cabarrus Animal Rescue 590 Crestmont Drive, Concord 704-701-5441 cabarrusanimalrescue@all2easy.net www.cabarrusanimalrescue.org

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On the Go Duke University Names Director of Operations for MURDOCK Study Julie Eckstrand, R.Ph., has been named the new director of operations for Duke University’s Translational Population Health Research Group, which includes the MURDOCK Study and Duke’s other clinical research studies based at the North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) in Kannapolis.

In her new role, Eckstrand will manage operations for the “TransPop” Group for the new Duke Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI).

The research portfolio includes the MURDOCK Study and related research projects involving biomarkers, longitudinal registries, risk modeling of data and community-engaged research at the Duke-Kannapolis office.

TransPop serves as an academic hub for accelerating the translation and implementation of scientific discoveries into health benefits for patients and communities.

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Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Earns Digital Learning Innovation Award Rowan-Cabarrus Community College has earned the 2016 Online Learning Consortium’s Digital Learning Innovation (DLI) Award for advancing undergraduate student success through the adoption of digital courseware. The awards program, funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Postsecondary Success Program, is a prestigious honor.

Rowan-Cabarrus was one of only three institutions and five faculty-led teams selected from among 106 submissions in this first year of the Online Learning Consortium’s Digital Learning Innovation Award competition.

Jenny Billings directed the Rowan-Cabarrus faculty-led team, which was awarded $10,000 for their innovative and creative program dedicated to accelerating the adoption of digital courseware for general education or gateway courses.

The Rowan-Cabarrus model has been successful and well received. Compared to traditional textbooks, students save 25 to 50 percent on course materials.

For more information about Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, please visit www.rccc.edu/apply2017 or call 704-216-RCCC (7222). The college has another set of classes beginning on March 15.

Have a business announcement? Added a new hire?

Hosting a community event?

We’d like to hear from you!

Send copy and photos to Kim at kcassell@cabarrusmagazine.com.

Kannapolis Honors 2016 Run Kannapolis Participants The City of Kannapolis and Carolinas Healthcare System honored the 2016 Run Kannapolis participants during a special ceremony last month.

Thirty-five people completed all eight of the 5K walks/runs in 2016, easily doubling the number of 15 people who completed all seven Run Kannapolis events in 2015.

Congratulations to Linda Bohrer, Corey Clawson, Chad Drake, Keith Eagle, Bryan Edwards, Gabe Edwards, Sarah Edwards, Brandon Farabee, Tucker Farabee, Ian Fongemy, Linda Griffin, Wayne Hall, Abby Hamlin, Jenny Hamlin, Scott Hamlin, Christy Honeycutt, Jadyn Jackson, Kahlen Kuddie, Kearsten Kuddie, Randy Mann, Matt March, Connor Mikoski, Michelle Mikoski, Troy Mikoski, Kollin Petty, Angie Richardson, Brianne Rucker, Bob Scott, Sandi Scott, Terri Shaffer, Chelia Spencer, Crystal Turney, Marie Wagner, Candy Waller and Ken Webb.

The “Beasts” completed all eight 5ks in 2016!

“We enjoy hearing the stories of people who went from being on the sofa, to walking, to now running. To hear stories of losing weight, feeling better and having less medical issues – all because they are participating in Run Kannapolis – is wonderful,” Kannapolis Mayor Darrell Hinnant says.

Kannapolis launched Run Kannapolis as part of the City’s Discover a Healthy Life brand. Ninety-two people completed at least five events and a total of 1,230 people ran at least one of the races.

First Impressions Family Dentistry Celebrates New Location First Impressions Family Dentistry held its official grand opening last month with the Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce and the local community, debuting its new state-of-the-art facility at 1408 South Main Street in Kannapolis.

Dr. Jennifer Wells and her Left to right: Barbi Jones, Ryan Dayvault, Viviana Martinez dental team have been providing Campos, Deneen Sellers, Dr. Jennifer Wells, Zach Wells, Kim Powell, Tori Burchett, Amy Daniel, Warren Williams, dental care for the Kannapolis, Katie Wagner, Cheryl Dearmon, Doug Wilson and Jeanie Concord and surrounding area Williamson for more than three years and look forward to providing patients with such office amenities as a beverage bar, Wi-Fi and a kiddie play area.

“I am so excited to have a new facility that reflects my personality as well as the family feel that we take pride in providing our patients,” Dr. Wells says.

Dementia Care Conference Coming to Crossroads Church The Cabarrus County Dementia Caregiver Conference is being held at Crossroads Church, 220 George Liles Parkway, Concord, on March 3 from 8:30am to 3:30pm.

The conference will provide an excellent opportunity for personal and professional caregivers to receive education and support on an intimate level.

This informative and insightful day will bring experienced speakers together to share innovative strategies for care success. Visit with sponsors at our dementia care fair tables to learn more about resources available in our community.

Special focus will be given to you as the caregiver, including stress relief door prizes! All proceeds benefit the Remembering Kay foundation. To register, visit www.dementiacaregiverconference.eventbrite.com.

Intimidators to Host Job Fair The Kannapolis Intimidators are preparing for the 2017 season by hosting a job fair for game-day staff positions. Join us on February 18, from 10:00am to 12:00pm. Interested applicants can fill out an application at the job fair, which will take place in the stadium conference room, located on the second floor of Intimidators Stadium.

Applications will be accepted for bat boys, grounds crew, concessions, mascot, merchandise sales, parking attendants, promotions team, suite servers, ticket sellers/takers and ushers.

Applicants must be at least 16 years old, and any applicant under 18 years old must provide a worker’s permit. Interested applicants who are unable to attend the job fair can download the Game Day Employment Application from the “About” section of IntimidatorsBaseball.com, and submit it to the Intimidators front office in person or via fax by Friday, February 17. Intimidators Stadium is located at 2888 Moose Road in Kannapolis, off I-85 at Exit 63. n

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FEBRUARY CABARRUS CHRISTIAN Women’s Connection February 2 • 9:30am • $15 Cabarrus Country Club 3247 Weddington Road, Concord • Ladies – Be Safe: Cabarrus County Sheriff Brad Riley talks about his commitment to make our community a safe place to work and live.

• The Prodigal Come Home by guest speaker, Kevin Clemmons. He tells about his life as a hippie and then a business professional.

• Brunch Music: Martha Campbell • For reservations 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 Jim Avett at The Davis Theatre February 2 • 7:30pm • $20 Davis Theatre 65 Union Street S., Concord • Folk, country and gospel songs and Avett’s original ballads that tell stories.

See where Scott and Seth of The Avett Brothers got their first inspiration!

• 704-920-2753; www.cabarrusartscouncil.org TODDLER Story Time February 2, 9, 16, 23 • 10:30am Mt. Pleasant Branch Library 8556 Cook Street, Mt. Pleasant • Children from walking age to three years old with caregiver. Songs, stories, finger plays followed by playtime for toddlers and networking for parents.

• 704-436-2202 Brown Bag Coloring for Adults February 3, 10, 17, 24 11:00am-12:00pm Mt. Pleasant Branch Library 8556 Cook Street, Mt. Pleasant • Coloring books aren’t just for kids anymore. Bring your lunch and color your stress away. We provide the materials, or bring your own.

• 704-436-2202

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Black Gold: NC Slavery and Reed Gold Mine February 4, 11, 18, 25 3:00-4:00pm • $2 Reed Gold Mine State Historic Site 9621 Reed Mine Road, Midland • Focuses on the enslaved population of this area and its role in North Carolina’s gold mining history.

• 704-721-4653; www.nchistoricsites.org Piedmont Farmers Market February 4, 11, 18, 25 • 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 Exceptional Glam Events Winter Bridal Show February 5 • 1:00-5:00pm 508 Event Center 508 Cook Street, Kannapolis • Amazing selection of professionals ready to help you find the perfect gown, invitations, photographer, music, menu, honeymoon destination and much more!

• www.exceptionalglameventshows. yapsody.com A Vet Together February 7, 14, 21, 28 • 9:00-11:00am Carm’s Cafe 42 Union Street S., Concord • Join Cabarrus Veterans Coalition for free coffee and conversation.

• 704-960-4394 Art Walk February 10 • 6:00-9:00pm Historic Downtown Concord • Organized in conjunction with Cabarrus Arts Council’s exhibitions • Visual art displays, artists’ demonstrations, interactive displays, live music and refreshments • 704-920-2787; www.cabarrusartscouncil.org

Concord on Canvas Banner Launch February 10 • 6:00-9:00pm Downtown Concord • Forty-two original paintings created by area professional artists and high school art students • On display throughout downtown Concord with online-bidding continuing up to Concord on Canvas party and auction on March 10 • 704-784-4208; www.concorddowntown.com 2nd Saturday Open Studios at CLEARWATER ARTIST STUDIOS February 11 • 10:00am-4:00pm 223 Crowell Drive N.W., Concord • Several art studios on premises will be open with resident artists present to talk to, watch work, etc.

• 704-784-9535; www.clearwaterartists.com Ben Sollee February 11 • 8:00pm • $25 Davis Theatre 65 Union Street S., Concord • Genre-bending cellist, composer and storyteller • 704-920-2753; www.cabarrusartscouncil.org The Princess and Her King Daddy/Daughter Dance February 11 • 6:00-9:00pm $40/couple Kannapolis City Hall Laureate Center 401 Laureate Way, Kannapolis • This program is designed for girls ages 5 and up to be accompanied by their dad, stepdad, grandpa, big brother, uncle or other special guy.

• Dressy (suit/slacks/jacket/tie) to casual (khakis/polo) attire • 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov

Memory Cafe´ February 15 • Free (third Wednesday of each month) Faith Coffee & Sweets 5040 N.C. Highway 49, Harrisburg • Open to anyone experiencing dementia, their loved ones and/or their care partners. Share time, stories and journeys together while having fun in a social setting.

• No preregistration is required.

• Michelle Marciniak: 704-698-6324; michelle.marciniakcarillonassisted living.com Fan Fiction Writing Workshop February 17 • 7:00pm Kannapolis Train Station 201 S. Main Street, Kannapolis • Series of three classes: $20 per class • Create and share your fan fiction: beta teams, targeting audiences, procuring loyal readers, and earning revenue from advertising and sponsors.

• Taught by Lady Soliloque • www.kannapolisnc.gov/ Government-Departments/ParksRecreation/Programs-Events Carolina alpaca celebration February 18-19 Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 4751 Highway 49 N., Concord • Vendors, seminars, halter shows, fiber arts, silent auction • Annual event hosted by Carolina Alpaca Breeders and Owners • www.carolinaalpacacelebration.com Art on Tap: mARTY Gras Masquerade February 24 • 7:00-10:00pm • Free/$20 The Galleries 65 Union Street S., Concord • Young professionals group designed for and by young adults; members come from diverse backgrounds and share common interest in arts and making impact on our community.

• Celebrate Fat Tuesday: Create your own mARTY Gras mask and enjoy carnival refreshments!

• www.artontapcabarrus.wixsite.com/ art-on-tap

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY February 25 • 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.concorddowntown.com cabarrus chamber Business After Hours February 28 • 5:30-7:00pm Homewood Suites Concord-Charlotte 7200 Scott Padgett Parkway, Concord • Premier networking event for business professionals; held at various locations.

• Free for Chamber members and non-member guests are welcome to attend up to three times. Expected Attendance: 75+ • Chemin Duffey: 704-260-8110; coordinator@cabarrus.biz BOWL FOR KIDS’ SAKE February 28 • 4:30-9:00pm Dave & Buster’s 8361 Concord Mills Boulevard, Concord • A fundraiser for Cabarrus Big Brothers Big Sisters • Team and individual prizes for most funds raised, best costume and more!

• www.2017CabarrusBFKS.kintera.org Crafts for the Home with Jenny February 28 • 6:00pm Kannapolis Train Station 201 S. Main Street, Kannapolis • Five monthly sessions: $40 per session • All materials will be included, but participants may bring embellishments as desired to personalize each craft.

• www.kannapolisnc.gov/ Government-Departments/ParksRecreation/Programs-Events

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At a Glance Accounting Firms

Potter & Company 434 Copperfield Boulevard N.E Concord, NC 28025 704-786-8189 www.gotopotter.com

Attorneys

Davis Nardone, PC 235 Cabarrus Avenue E. Concord, NC 28025 704-784-9440 www.davisnardone.com

Automotive Maintenance

Certec Automotive 2215 Roxie Street Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-795-2426 • 800-264-6823 www.certecautomotive.com

Boutiques

Style One-11 4250 Main Street, Suite 107 Harrisburg, NC 28075 980-258-8455 www.styleone11.com

Carpet/Flooring

Carpet To Go & More 701 Concord Parkway N. Concord, NC 28025 704-956-2866 www.carpet2go.com

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Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cabarrus County Page 24 704-305-3411 www.facebook.com/BigBrothersBigSistersCabarrus www.bbbsclt.org New Hope Worship Center 452 Brookwood Ave. N.E. Concord, NC 28025 704-786-0155 www.newhopewc.org

Cleaning Services – Office

Blue-J Serving Cabarrus County and the Greater Charlotte Metro Area 704-589-3148 www.bluejsmallofficecleaning.com

Colleges & Universities

Rowan–Cabarrus Community College 1333 Jake Alexander Boulevard S. Salisbury, NC 28146 704-216-7222 www.rccc.edu

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Dula Real Estate 18145 W. Catawba Avenue Cornelius, NC 28031 704-895-1011 www.dularealestate.com

Computer Sales, Service and Repair

Carolina CompuTech 850 Union Street S. Concord, NC 28025 704-785-8066 • 704-785-8076 tech@carolinacomputech.com www.carolinacomputech.com

Dentists

Smile Cabarrus 5000 Highway 49 S. Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-455-3333 www.smilecabarrus.com

Child Advocacy

Churches

Commercial Real Estate

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Hartsell Funeral Homes 460 Branchview Dr. N.E. Concord, NC 28025 704-786-1161

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Chez Francois 9 Union Street N. Concord, NC 28025 980-439-6602 www.francoisfrenchcafe.com

Satellite TV and Internet Providers Page 17

Pharmacies Page 31

Cannon Pharmacy 760 Cabarrus Avenue W. Concord, NC 28027 704-788-6337 1706 S. Cannon Blvd.

Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-933-6337

Spectrum 1-800-595-4610 www.charter.com

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Student Learning Centers

Kumon Math & Reading Center of Harrisburg - Town Center Page 3 4200 Main Street, Suite 105 Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-312-5889 www.kumon.com/harrisburg-town-center

13575 Broadway Avenue Midland, NC 28107 704-888-5571

Wilkinson Funeral Home 100 Branchview Drive N.E. Concord, NC 28025 704-786-3168 www.wilkinsonfuneralhome.com

Modern Impressions 5029 West W.T. Harris Blvd.

Charlotte, NC 28269 800-840-2554 www.modernimpressions.com

Restaurants

522 N. Second Street Albemarle, NC 28001 704-983-1188 www.hartsellfh.com Page 14

Michael A. Anderson Photography 38 Union Street S. Concord, NC 28025 704-701-5908 mike@michael-a-anderson.com www.michael-a-anderson.com

Print & Technology Services

275 Branchview Dr. S.E. Concord, NC 28025 704-795-0088 www.cpcuonline.com

Funeral Homes

Harrisburg Hometown Pharmacy 5006 Highway 49 S. Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-454-RX4U (7948) www.harrisburgpharmacy.com

Photographers

Financial/Lending Institutions Southern Select Community Credit Union A Division of CPCU 169 Dale Earnhardt Blvd.

Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-734-2800

1402 N. Cannon Blvd.

Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-933-7948 www.cannonpharmacies.com

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Kumon Math & Reading Center of Concord - Speedway 3775 Concord Parkway S., Suite 124 Concord, NC 28027 704-784-5866 www.kumon.com/concord-nc

Theatres – Live Page 19

Old Courthouse Theatre 49 Spring Street N.W. Concord, NC 28025 704-788-2405 www.oldcourthousetheatre.org

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