March, '17

MARCH 2017

Your Dream Job: Ready, Set, Go!

Mike Anderson: Hey Now!

Beth Troutman: Her Year of Saying Yes

The Experiential Jay Howard Cabarrus Business: On the Go

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Word on the Street When I was about six years old, my parents decided to leave the life we had known here in North Carolina and head out onto the mission field. Overnight, I went from a typical American kid to a young boy in a foreign land who could only marginally speak the language and knew none of the customs.

My parents knew we would have to depend on the kindness of others to make it. But they also knew it was what they were supposed to be doing at that time. It was their purpose and nothing was going to deter them from their mission. They

March 2017 Volume 17 n Issue 3 President Pam Tolen Publisher Jason Huddle

Advertising Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle Elaine Marlowe Contributing Writers Kim Cassell Jason Huddle Jason Huddle and David Line Contributing Photographers Michael A. Anderson Photography Jack Chapman Jay Howard Beth Troutman Cabarrus Magazine is published by: Comfort Publishing Inc. 296 Church Street N., Hidden Plaza Concord, NC 28025

Rachel Fesko

Managing Editor/Art Direction Kim Cassell

stepped out in faith.

It takes a lot of courage to step out in faith. Perhaps that’s why it’s an action that is so highly revered in our society. To leave the nest, change careers or even sacrifice your own security for the betterment of others are things that not everyone has the fortitude to do.

Mike Anderson, Jay Howard and Beth Troutman are prime examples of what it means to believe in yourself enough to step out and do what it is you feel you were meant to do...love to do. We share their stories. We also provide some useful information on what should be thought about financially before making a radical life change, whatever the circumstances.

We hope these stories will inspire you to follow your dreams or, at the very least, to quote the late Casey Kasem, ‘Keep your feet on the ground and keep reaching for the stars.’

Best regards,

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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Jason Huddle

This Issue...

Going For It 6

Your Dream Job: Ready, Set, Go!

8

Mike Anderson: Hey Now!

14

Beth Troutman: Her Year of Saying Yes

19

Breaking Bread: Chef Bouali Dishes

20

The Experiential Jay Howard

24

Crime Stoppers: The Harrisburg Hit and Run Case

25

Paw Prints: Cabarrus’ Adoptable Dogs

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By Kim Cassell

Your Dream Job: Ready, Set, Go! As children, we typically had an answer when someone asked us what we wanted to be when we grew up: teacher, doctor, astronaut, president of the United States.

Then, regardless of the educational path taken – or not – we as adults end up working a nine-to-five not only to pay the bills, but to afford us the luxury of purchasing the American Dream: a house, a nice car, a Saturday night steak dinner at a local restaurant.

But what happens if the path you chose isn’t the one you’re happiest at having taken? What if you dread waking up at the crack of dawn to work for a not-solikeable boss and perform mundane tasks that give you no personal satisfaction?

You have a hobby that you just love, but can you make a living at it? Opinions are divided.

Fastcompany.com shares some viewpoints for the “ayes.”

• Make time for your passion: Go back to school and earn a degree in a field you’ve always wanted to pursue. This can be done on a part-time basis while you still work.

• Expand your network outside the workplace: Besides networking for your employer, talk with those who are already working in the field you’d like to pursue. Word of mouth could lead to opportunities.

• Get your finances in order: If you’ve been working in corporate America for some time, you’ve probably established a certain lifestyle. To follow your dream, have you lowered your debt; built up enough savings to cover at least six months worth of expenses; do you have a spouse or partner whose income will help offset expenses; and, the big question, will following your passion bring in enough income?

• Accept emotional and financial support: Making such a career change will undoubtedly affect you and your family. It’s important to make sure everyone

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Before making a career move, make sure you have built up enough savings to cover at least six months’ worth of expenses.

is on board and supportive of your decision.

• Don’t worry about status: Whether they be friends or co-workers, those who truly care about you will stick around and be supportive.

• Plan ahead early on: Implement an action plan. Set goals with planned accomplishment dates; establish a realistic budget.

• Leave benefits behind: Bonuses, stock options, paid vacation and personal days are a thing of the past and it’s okay. You may be able to time your corporate departure advantageously.

• Remain motivated: Create your own mission statement in your new endeavor and stick to it.

Then there are the points presented by the “nays,” brought to you tongue in cheek by Kathy Caprino, a contributor at Forbes.

• You don’t have a sound strategy: “You can’t leave your corporate job without a strong financial plan that will effectively fund your transition.

Wishful thinking just doesn’t cut it.

You have to understand exactly what doing meaningful work in the way you want to will require of you, your family and your bank account – financially, emotionally and behaviorally. To make it work, you need a sound, well-

developed strategic plan that covers all bases.”

• You follow bad advice: “Don’t follow bad advice that tells you you’ll get rich quick. You won’t, and you’ll lose all your money looking for that quick pot of gold that just won’t come.”

• You lack true commitment: “People who want to move out of their careers into something more satisfying often don’t realize how long it will take, and how much effort it requires.

But when you’re doing what you’re passionate about, it doesn’t feel like hard work – it feels exciting, juicy and life affirming.

• They don’t know how to handle money effectively: Most of us weren’t taught how to manage money well or effectively. To be financially successful,

you have to love and appreciate money, but not for money’s sake.

You’ve got to heal your relationship with money to learn how to manage it wisely and to have your money grow to support your passionate work.”

Imagine, total control. There will no longer be management dictating policy – you are management. You can set your own hours, expand your skill set and control your money. Beyond money, there’s a sense of personal fulfillment and empowerment.

It can be tough to leave the familiarity and security of a job where the employer is responsible for providing paid vacation, personal days and medical benefits. It’s a safety net. But for those ready to take the plunge, following your heart could be a decision you never look back from. n

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Mike Anderson took his childhood love of art and photography and turned it into a successful career.

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By Kim Cassell

Mike Anderson: Hey Now! Six years ago, Mike Anderson was a prime example of a restless spirit. Working in the food service industry, he worked his nine-to-five to pay the bills, but was miserable.

“When I grew up, I wanted to be a painter,” Anderson recalls from childhood.

“I sketched, doodled, entered contests and won all kinds of art awards in high school. I love landscapes and architecture and that’s what I took pictures of. It’s always been a hobby. I still have photos of my mom in Memorial Garden.”

After high school, Anderson admits that he partied, sowed his wild oats, met a nurse, became a father and got a grown-up job.

“I was just worried about paying the bills, working my Monday through Friday job,” he says. “One Christmas, I was at a party. I hated my job but I had friends who saw my landscapes, liked my pictures and told me I should get into photography.”

That got his wheels turning, so he pulled out his camera gear and started practicing. “It was a struggle for a good year, year and a half, because I didn’t have a style. My stuff looked like everybody else’s,” Anderson shares. “Then I found one picture that looked different from anything else I’d shot. The lighting was different and I knew it. And when I edited it, I started looking at the camera settings, how I set up my lighting. After about two weeks, I got it. I’ve been shooting that way for the past five years.” "

Anderson practiced his lighting techniques until his photos looked like no one else’s.

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Between 2015 and 2016, Anderson had made an indelible impression on Facebook, serving on both a discussion panel locally and as a member of the Small and Medium Business Council, garnering him more than one trip to California.

Anyone who knows Anderson can’t deny that he’s a Type A personality. “I couldn’t sit in an office,” he says. “I’m always looking for the next shot; it never turns off. How does the shadow fall? When I see it again, I’ll remember it and I’ll know what I need to do to get a really cool shot. I analyze and critique all images.”

What sets Anderson apart from other entrepreneurs – and could be attributed to that Type A personality – are his wicked self-marketing skills. He’s taken social media to a new level with regard to business promotion.

“Facebook was the first thing I did – on January 2, 2010,” he explains.

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“It’s all about building a brand, a style that separates you from the crowd. If you shoot and look like everybody else, then you’re going to be just like everybody else. Once I developed my style, then I was, like, how do I market this?

“Facebook travels to 50 cities each year and has seminars on how to grow your business. When they came to the Charlotte market in May 2015, they reached out to Congressman Hudson’s office. A staffer there told them about me and they approached me.”

As part of that seminar, Anderson was asked to sit on a discussion panel that fielded questions from the audience.

“They liked how I spoke, ranted, etc.

I even spoke over the Facebook rep, raising my hand and asking to answer a question. The video was replayed at Facebook.”

That event got Anderson noticed at the Facebook corporate office in Menlo Park, CA. Representatives there requested that he sign a marketing agreement that would see his story go national.

“Then they emailed me again and said they were having an event at their headquarters. They invited me out and spotlighted me. They displayed photos I’d taken, one being a photo of the old historic Cabarrus County Courthouse. I couldn’t help but think, wow, little old Cabarrus County, North Carolina.”

But that wasn’t the end of Anderson’s relationship with Facebook. Last year he was nominated for Facebook’s Small and Medium Business (SMB) Council; his placement had to be voted on.

“I got a phone call that said, ‘Michael, you’ve been selected.’ We’re talking 50 million businesses on Facebook worldwide…on the entire planet. I’m one of 24 businesses they picked and one of 12 nationally. They said, ‘We’re flying you out again for a summit.’ There were business owners from all over the country. I got to meet Sheryl Sandberg again (Facebook COO) and we met the heads of every department at Facebook.

Anderson is serving a temporary term on the SMB Council, which offers advice to Facebook about the development of their online tools.

Aside from the self-marketing, Anderson says the community is what built his business. “Jason Huddle (Cabarrus Magazine) gave me my first opportunity: Cyndie Mynatt in front of a yellow Camaro. From there, it was the Cabarrus CVB and being their photographer for the past four years…Special Olympics, BBBS Pancake Day, JoyProm, the Concord Police Department, Cabarrus County Government and the annual Christmas tree lighting.

Anderson describes the tree lighting photo as the one that changed his life. “It was the catalyst that made me known,” he says. “Concord Mayor Padgett called wanting to enter it in a statewide competition and we won. We beat 63 other cities.

“The one thing that brings me joy more than anything is the community.

I grew up in Harrisburg and have lived in Concord since I was 15. I like to help promote and enrich the community I live in.”

Anderson also did what financial advisors would call the right thing.

He initially retained his nine-to-five job while shooting part-time. Once he saw the photography business taking over, he felt confident enough to quit his job and take the plunge. And to go along with his marketing technique, he’s created a persona: his trademark fedora.

Anderson likes where his business is today, but still worries that he isn’t busy enough. And while he’s approached by soon-to-be brides from all over the

U.S. to shoot their weddings, he says, “Landscape will always be my first love because it never says to me, ‘Do I look fat in this dress?’ I love shooting cars, concerts, sports, anything that’s in the moment.”

That’s a fitting segue to the new UpTown Suites nearing completion in the Concord Mills corridor. Anderson

has been approached by local management there to put his photos in all of the hotel’s 125 rooms. Cabarrus Magazine will follow up with Anderson on that front.

If that’s not enough, Anderson recently leased the old Oxford Studios on Union Street in downtown Concord. Little did he know at the "

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When he’s not shooting, Anderson’s most recent project is going through the archives of the old Oxford Studios, his current studio space.

time that he’d walk into another dimension, as Rod Serling would say. Photographers Claude Oxford and Lawson Bonds were the last two photographers to occupy the studio space and left everything just how it had been…everything.

“It’s such a time capsule,” Anderson says. “I’ve found negatives, prints and old photo equipment. I’ve had photographers and camera stores from all over the country reach out to me wanting to buy it. I tell them it’s not for sale. I’ll get all this stuff into the right hands: the Historical Society, the library. Some of this stuff hasn’t been opened up since the ‘40s…the mall getting built, the parade, Raiford Troutman from 1964.”

Anderson has made it his mission to reunite as many people as possible with their old photos. He’s documenting the process by taking shots of the subjects with their reclaimed pictures. Many can be seen and appreciated on his Facebook page. He also urges those with an interest to see the space to send him a message via his Facebook page or website.

In the meantime, Anderson will continue doing what he does best, and loves. “I’ll never stop shooting,” he says. “I’ll be buried with a camera. I’m only as good as my last shot and my next one will be my best.” n

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Here Comes Allergy Season.

Be Prepared!

Due to this year’s relatively mild winter, allergy sufferers may already be feeling the effects of an early spring.

When that begins, it’s always best to seek the counsel of your local pharmacists.

They are a great resource and can help patients with allergy treatment.

Cannon Pharmacy’s David Line says that North Carolina, while a great place to live, is also ranked as one of the worst for allergy sufferers. This is due to its temperate climate and abundance of flora.

Line says there are several things sufferers can do to prepare for the season. “Reduce your exposure to allergy triggers,” he says. “Don’t hang laundry outside, wear a mask while doing outdoor lawn maintenance, make sure to shower and wash your clothes after being outside, and vacuum carpets frequently. If you have cats or dogs, make sure to bathe them frequently to reduce allergens brought into your house, and change your household filters frequently.”

Line also says to pay attention to projected pollen counts each day and monitor outdoor activities accordingly, and keep windows and doors shut at home when pollen counts are high.

But the key, he adds, is to be proactive with allergy medications. “Start taking your allergy medication before the season starts. Pretreating with your allergy medication will help arm your body with a proper defense to halt allergy symptoms before they start. Ask your pharmacist for the most appropriate allergy medication recommendation.”

Common allergies in this region during the spring (March-May) include trees (Hickory, Oak, Walnut, Willow Mulberry), weeds (Ragweed, Amaranth) and grass (Bermuda, timothy, fescue).

“Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are

recommended for people who have allergies more than three months a year,” Line says. “They are not a quick fix, and

By Jason Huddle and David Line

Sponsored by Cannon Pharmacy

typically require multiple injections spanning over months. They are available at your allergist’s office.” n

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Beth Troutman has given up a career in television broadcasting to join Give Hope Global in Cambry, Haiti.

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By Jason Huddle

Beth Troutman: Her Year of Saying Yes Nancy Elizabeth Troutman Whaley – known to us as Beth Troutman – has given up her career in broadcast journalism. This news is huge to those who have watched the Concord native grow up as a member of the iconic Troutman family, best known for its barbecue restaurants, real estate and business ventures.

In 2015, when Troutman was host of RightThisMinute, she disclosed that she’d be leaving the TV show to return home to Cabarrus County to spend time with her ailing mother. That initial life-changing event would forever alter her perspective on her career, her life and what kind of legacy she wants to leave. But, to understand where Beth Troutman is going, you need to understand where she’s been.

“Growing up in Cabarrus County was awesome,” Troutman recalls. “My grandfather (Raiford Troutman) built the homes we all grew up in – all on the same street. But (because of my family name), people also had assumptions about what being a Troutman meant. The truth is, we weren’t given anything. We were taught to work – and work hard – for what we wanted.”

After graduating from Concord High School, she went on to UNC Chapel Hill where she graduated with a degree in Political Science and Women’s Studies. She then made a move to Hollywood where she was hired as a production assistant for The West Wing. "

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Troutman served as host of the syndicated TV show “RightThisMinute” after filming the pilot in 2010. She also appeared in weekly segments on “The Today Show” (opposite).

In 2004, she decided to try her hand at real-life politics by returning to North Carolina and running against then-incumbent congressman, Robin Hayes. Although she wasn’t successful in her bid, Troutman says she learned a lot from the experience and it helped to shape her into the woman she is today.

“I’m much wiser now,” she explains.

“When I ran for congress, I had this Mr. Smith Goes to Washington-type mentality, but I was soon faced with the realities of the political system. It became all about fundraising.”

The process was eye opening, and Troutman says she considers it an important part of her growth as a person. “I needed to understand the importance of humility and trusting my own heart and instinct,” she says.

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She also learned that she loves a good challenge – still does. After the election was over and the rallies and media attention faded into memories, Troutman knew she needed to find employment and fast. She saw a job posting for Fox Charlotte looking for an “opinionated female.”

“I thought to myself, ‘I can do that!’” she chuckled. Fox producers met with her and, soon thereafter, her broadcast journalism career took off in the form of host of Fox News Rising.

“It was a trial by fire, but I was good at it,” Troutman regales.

Her talent was noticed right away and it wasn’t long before she was flying down to south Florida every week to co-host a morning show there and flying back home to her husband in North Carolina on the weekends.

This was the routine for two years until she was invited to film a pilot for a new local show in Phoenix, AZ: RightThisMinute.

“So, I went and filmed the pilot and didn’t really hear anything for a while,” Troutman remembers. “Then I got a call that the show had been picked up and off to Phoenix we went.”

The chemistry between Troutman and her co-hosts was immediate and it played well to the viewing audience.

Soon the show was syndicated internationally. In addition, Troutman found herself doing weekly segments on The Today Show for a time. Things were certainly headed in the right direction for her – or so she thought.

Then she got the phone call.

It was the kind of call no one wants to receive about a loved one, especially their mother. She was sick, very sick, and things did not look good. A terminal diagnosis had been given and Beth knew what she had to do. “My mother was dying of cancer. I needed to come home.”

As fate would have it, WCNC in Charlotte was looking to fill its coanchor position for its evening news slot at the same time, and Troutman got the job. Now she would be close to family and still work – or so she thought.

Troutman hadn’t been at WCNC for long when it became evident that her mother needed round-the-clock care to keep her comfortable. Without hesitation, Troutman went to her

new bosses and asked for a leave of absence. They didn’t hesitate either – to grant it. She was noticeably absent from the newscasts while she took on the role of primary caregiver.

“When I think of all she did to clothe, feed and take care of me growing up, this was the least I could do for her,” Troutman says proudly. “It was my honor.”

Troutman’s perspective on things began to change as she watched her mother’s illness progress. One day, the two of them were sitting on the couch discussing how she had always wanted to change the curtains in the living room but had never gotten around to it. That’s when her mother said something very profound to Troutman. “ ‘Beth, the only thing that matters is love. That’s the only thing you take with you. The rest is just junk.’” A few weeks later, she passed.

“I was holding her hand when she took her last breath,” Troutman says with a tear in her eye. “I was forever changed by it.”

Troutman soon returned to the anchor desk, but seeds of change had been planted. Only a few months later, she lost a close friend to breast cancer.

The conversation between Troutman

and her mother resonated even more with this most recent loss.

“I began to look at my life and my career in relation to what my mother had said,” Troutman shares. “I realized my purpose is to spread love and I couldn’t do that on the evening news.

It’s awfully hard to spread love when you’re talking about the latest murder or fatal car wreck.”

Even with this revelation, Troutman wasn’t sure where to begin, but the pieces fell into place soon enough. She’d been asked to emcee a fundraising event for a non-profit called Give Hope Global, a Christian organization that specifically works to help orphaned children in third-world countries. Troutman fell in love with the organization immediately and, at the event, she began to feel a pull she could no longer ignore. She knew the time for change had come.

Troutman initiated conversations with her producers about ending her 16-month employment at WCNC in order to begin her new mission in life. At the end of January, she made a public announcement on social media that she would be leaving the anchor desk and her reasons for doing so. Messages of support immediately came flooding in. "

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Left: Troutman served as caregiver during her mother’s fight against cancer. Above: Troutman and Jack Chapman, Troutman’s photographer/videographer, on a previous trip to Cambry, Haiti.

Last month, Troutman signed off for the final time and packed for her first mission trip to Haiti with Give Hope Global. Her eyes light up as she talks about it. “I’ve always known I wanted to change the world, but for the longest time I thought that had to be on a large scale. Then I realized that changing the world starts with changing hearts, not minds, and getting people to open up.”

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Troutman isn’t finished with the cameras, however. As this article is being written, she has left for Haiti and will be documenting her experiences while there. We hope to be able to share some of those with you soon on www.cabarrusmagazine.com.

You may still be asking how someone can leave an exciting and lucrative career, like Troutman has, to do volunteer work? Troutman says there are several factors.

“First of all, me and my husband are blessed that we are able to make these changes. He’s been so great to support me through all this. Secondly,

I’ve come to realize that this one life is all we get. I’ve said no to so many opportunities to make a difference along the way. This is my year of saying, ‘Yes!’ “I hope, a few years from now, that I’ve traveled the world sharing my story and listening to others’ stories.

I hope I’ve been able to spread love, compassion, kindness and tolerance – maybe even written a book.

“Henry David Thoreau once told people to ‘live the life they’ve imagined,’ ” she adds. “That’s exactly what I want to inspire people to do.” n

Sponsored by Chez Francois

Breaking Bread Napoleon (Mille-Feuille) Ingredients 1 box puff pastry dough sheets (in store freezer section) ¼ cup cornstarch 4 cups whole milk (no substitutions) ½ cup cake flour 1½ cups granulated sugar 3 large eggs, separated ½ tsp. orange zest 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter 2 tsp. vanilla extract 1/2 cup confectioners sugar 1 Tbsp. lemon Juice (fresh-squeezed) AS NEEDED: 1 small jar apricot jam, semi-sweet chocolate chips for melting, granulated sugar for pastry dough Instructions Preheat oven to 400˚ F. Roll out three sheets of puff pastry to 1/8-inch thickness.

Prick with a fork, sprinkle with granulated sugar and place on baking sheets. Bake until golden, about 12 minutes. In a medium bowl, combine cornstarch and 1/2 cup milk with whisk until smooth. Stir in cake flour and half the sugar and orange zest. Beat in egg yolks. Set aside. In a saucepan over medium heat, bring remaining milk and remaining sugar to a rolling boil. Stir in egg yolk mixture; continue stirring and bring to a boil again. Remove from heat and stir in butter and vanilla. Let cool. In a small saucepan or in the microwave, heat the jam until runny. Place one sheet of pastry on a board. Spread with cooled pastry cream to a thickness of 1/2-inch. Place a second pastry sheet over the cream. Brush with fruit glaze. Spread remaining pastry cream over glaze. Top with final pastry sheet and gently compress layers, using a baking sheet to press. To make icing, beat together confectioners sugar and lemon juice with enough of the egg whites to make a creamy consistency like that of a cream soup. Now melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe container until smooth and able to pipe. Frost the top and sides of the assembled pastry with white icing. Pipe parallel lines of chocolate sauce on top of dessert, then draw a pick or knife crosswise through icing to make the traditional design. Let icing set before cutting into bars. (Must be below 45˚.)

Francois Bouali was born into two cultures that are drenched in French cuisine: Tunisia on his father’s side and France on his mother’s side. Now an authentic French chef, Bouali makes his own bread, pastry, classic French dishes, and even his own cheese – selections that will be offered at Chez Francois.

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By Kim Cassell

The Experiential Jay Howard Cabarrus Magazine has spotlighted Jay Howard and his company – JHE Production Group – in the past, covering the company’s cutting-edge NASCAR-related live shows. But how did Jay Howard, the man, get here?

Howard and his son, Jay Jay, circa 1997

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“When I was young, I wanted to work for my dad who owned an electrical construction business, or own my own business like my dad,” Howard explains.

“My dad took over the business from his dad, so it was reasonable to believe it could become a third-generation, family-run business.”

A Concord native, Howard got a taste of his father’s business early on, working for him during his summer vacations starting when he was 13. “Then, when I turned 15, it was expected that I work with him after school,” Howard adds.

However, professional family pursuits took a detour when Howard was a freshman studying business administration at Appalachian State University. His father had arranged for him to run errands – be a gopher – for Humpy Wheeler, then president of Charlotte Motor Speedway, during that one Race Week. He knew little to nothing about racing.

That internship, however, ended up lasting the duration of Howard’s college career. Upon graduation, he was hired full-time by Wheeler. “He put me in "

Bert, Howard’s German shepherd mix, has his own nameplate outside Howard’s office.

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Humpy Wheeler hired Howard to run Performance Racing Network in 1984; this shot was taken during a driver interview in 1985.

charge of opening ceremonies, live entertainment and running PRN (Performance Racing Network),” Howard says. “It was challenging, and they gave me room to try new things, and I enjoyed it. That’s where I fell in

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love with the idea of live events.”

PRN had just been formed in 1981, and still airs NASCAR races and racerelated shows today. PRN’s studios are located at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

“The people at Charlotte Motor

Speedway were great to work with and for, but I saw the opportunity to do more,” Howard says. “The speedway was where I experienced my first professional goose bumps, assisting at the World 600 in 1981. It was my first experience of a big event that was the epicenter of a big event. I had the chance to start out in the center of the activity, seeing everything up close and personal.”

Maybe Howard had inherited his father’s entrepreneurial spirit because, by 1987, he’d caught the bug. “With only Charlotte Motor Speedway as a client, I took a leap of faith and started what was then called Jay Howard Events,” he shares. “I took the main skill that the speedway taught me – producing live events – and turned it into a marketable offering.”

With a consulting contract, and working out of his basement for JH Events’ first eight years, Howard produced live entertainment for Charlotte Motor Speedway. He was a

one-man show until 1996 when he hired his first employee, but during that time he never gave up.

In 2002, JH Events became JHE Production Group, widening its focus to anything race show-related.

This included the mobile stages and sets; pre-race introductions of the drivers; pre-race concerts; the National Anthem; and flyovers.

Over time, JHE has delved into corporate projects, with a growing client list that includes Sprint, Wells Fargo, Lowe’s, Coca-Cola, Bank of America, Ford and Chevrolet, as well as IndyCar, the NBA and NFL, in addition to NASCAR. “JHE has evolved in countless ways, but from a business perspective, we started out with live shows as a service offering, added special events, added experiential (events or marketing displays directly engaging audiences, creating hands-on experiences) and, most recently, added corporate production,” Howard says. “Our four core service offerings were added in that order over a 29-year span.”

In Howard’s case, a career – unplanned as it might have been early on – presented itself and evolved into something he still enjoys today.

And on February 6, JHE became CSM Production. A year ago, the company was purchased by CSM Sport and Entertainment, which is based in London and was looking to expand its North American market reach. The name change goes along with new branding.

“JHE has accomplished a lot in 29 years, and I’m proud of what this exceptional team has done,” Howard shares. “The people I work with make me happy and fulfilled, but it is my family that gives me the greatest joy. I am so fortunate to have a wonderful, supportive wife and two children who are figuring out what their impact will be on the world.” n

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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.

Foxy is a one-year-old Pomeranian/ Chihuahua mix, weighing 20 pounds.

This sweet girl was abandonded on the property of Cabarrus Pets Society.

Scared and not understanding what she had done wrong or why her family didn’t love her anymore, one of our loyal foster families was able to take her in. She has since blossomed and is loving life. She is wonderful with other dogs, and toddlers as well. She is just such a sweet soul, and would make a wonderful addition to any home.

Felix Fenton looks to possibly be a Hound mix, maybe with some Boxer.

He was born around June of 2016 and currently weighs about 30 pounds.

This friendly, happy boy is very active, so would do best in a home with a fenced-in yard where he can get plenty of exercise. Felix’s adoption includes all his vaccinations, neuter and microchip. Come visit this sweet boy!

Cabarrus Pets Society P.O. Box 5042, Concord, NC 28027 704-786-7729 petpals@cabarruspets.com www.cabarruspets.com

Humane Society of Concord & Greater Cabarrus County Ruth’s Memorial Shelter 2010 Wilshire Court, Concord 704-784-7387 www.cabarrushumanesociety.org

DAISY is a nine-year-old Terrier mix whose owner has passed away, leaving Daisy homeless. This very sweet girl is people-friendly, dog-friendly and housetrained. She is up-to-date on vaccines, spayed and microchipped.

All she needs is a special someone to lay on the couch and watch TV with her. Please consider the adoption of a senior dog. They’re typically more mellow, have had some training and are so thankful for a loving home.

Mt. Pleasant Animal Rescue P. O. Box 1076, Mt. Pleasant 980-439-6505 mtpleasantanimalrescue@aol.com

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On the Go Trashed Studio Has Moved and Rebranded Introducing hive!

Trashed Studio has moved to 3 Union Street N., next to The Bead Lady. As part of its rebranding, it also changed its name but retains the same ownership.

Patrons will find that hive still offers the same great handmade retail and art workshops, like the Air Plant Wreath Workshop on Thursday, March 3, at 6:30pm. For $25, all materials are included but the class is limited to eight people so hurry and register today!

Hive is also booking parties. Its workshop room is ready for those who want to celebrate and create.

To book your date, send an email to hiveconcord@gmail.com or visit www.hiveandco.com.

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Kannapolis Fire Department Personnel Recognized The Kannapolis Fire Department held its annual Awards and Appreciation Banquet at the Laureate Center last month. More than 260 fire personnel, family members and guests attended.

Top honors were given to Senior Captain Greg Summitt, recipient of the Larry C. Phillips Fire Officer of the Year Award, and Senior Firefighter Stephen Overcash, recipient of the Danny E. Scott Firefighter of the Year Award.

Senior Captain Summitt is a nine-year veteran of the fire department and has served as a captain for four years. He serves as a training captain and as a member of the Special Operations Team. He is currently assigned to Ladder 14, C Shift.

Senior Firefighter Overcash has been with Kannapolis Fire Department for four years and is currently assigned to Engine 31 in the Royal Oaks area.

An official badge pinning Senior Captain Summitt ceremony was conducted to honor new firefighter recruit class graduates and those promoted during the past year. Recruit class graduates include Jeremi Carter, Cody Harrison, Tyler Karriker, Michael Lanning, Jonathan McCaskil and Kris Reeder.

Promotions went to senior firefighters Dan Brown, Don Gray, Daniel Jenkins and Ben Preddy; engineers Blake Overcash and Clay Sellers; senior engineers Ashley Armstrong and Jonathan Corriher; captains Chris Barbee, Scott Smith and Luke Osborne; and senior captains Craig Miller, Chris Morris and Greg Summitt.

Senior Firefighter Overcash

Habitat Cabarrus to Build its 150th Home Habitat for Humanity Cabarrus County was created to serve as part of a solution to a housing need in Cabarrus County.

In the fall of 1989, Habitat Cabarrus became a chartered affiliate with the first Habitat Cabarrus home completed in the summer of 1990.

In 1998, the first Collegiate Challenge was hosted in Cabarrus County. It saw college students from across the U.S. spending their spring break building a home for a local family. Churches and other community organizations worked with Habitat Cabarrus to provide accommodations and meals for the out-of-state students.

In 2007, Habitat Cabarrus built its centennial home. This milestone propelled Habitat Cabarrus forward and helped to open doors for additional services to benefit a greater number of families. Since 1989, Habitat Cabarrus has been blessed to serve nearly 1,000 people in Cabarrus County through new builds, rehabs, critical home repairs and transitional housing.

Last month, Habitat Cabarrus began building its 150th home, also a Collegiate Challenge build, that is fully sponsored by Publix Supermarket.

Habitat Cabarrus is proud to work with community members to make the dream of homeownership a reality for so many deserving families. Habitat Cabarrus recognizes the importance of the collaborative efforts that have made it possible to build 150 homes and is looking forward to the next 150 and beyond!

To learn more about the 150th challenge, visit habitatcabarrus.org.

Pinnacle Financial Partners to Acquire BNC Bancorp Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc., the holding company and parent of Pinnacle Bank, and BNC Bancorp, the holding company and parent of Bank of North Carolina, announce the signing of a definitive agreement that will see BNC merging with and into Pinnacle. Upon completion of the merger, Pinnacle will merge Bank of North Carolina with and into Pinnacle Bank.

The proposed merger was approved unanimously by each company’s Board of Directors and is expected to close in the third quarter of this year. The merger will create a four-state footprint concentrated in 12 of the largest urban markets in the Southeast, including the Charlotte area.

Richard D. Callicutt II, BNC’s president and CEO, will be named chairman of the Carolinas and Virginia region once the acquisition is consummated and will join Pinnacle’s board along with three other BNC directors.

Pinnacle and BNC hosted a joint webcast conference call last month that discussed the financial and other aspects of the business combination. It has been archived on the investor relations page of Pinnacle’s website at www.pnfp.com and BNC’s website at www.bncbanking.com where it will remain until April 24. n

Have a business announcement? Added a new hire?

Hosting a community event?

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

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MArch Concord on Canvas Banner Display Through March 10 • Decorative banners along Union Street display prints of the 2017 painting collection.

• Paintings are the work of area professional artists and high school art students. Online-bidding continues through March 9.

• 704-784-4208; www.concorddowntown.com TODDLER Story Time March 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 Art on Tap: Lights & Libations March 3 • 7:00-9:30pm Cabarrus Arts Council 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.

• Take part in a hands-on photography activity while our mixologists create libations for you to enjoy!

• 704-920-ARTS (2787) Brown Bag Coloring for Adults March 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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Piedmont Farmers Market March 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

Seussical The Musical March 9-11 • 7:00pm Hickory Ridge High School 7321 Raging Ridge Road, Harrisburg • Watch the Hickory Ridge theatre students bring your favorite Dr. Seuss characters to life.

• www.cabarrus.k12.nc.us/ hickoryridgehs

Using Your Unique - DIY Artist Branding Workshop March 6, 13, 20, 27 • 7:00-8:00pm Kannapolis City Hall 401 Laureate Way, Kannapolis • Four-week course for artists on marketing and branding. Participants will learn to execute a brand and image that best represents their craft.

• Classes taught by Arsena Schroeder • www.apm.activecommunities.com/ kannapolisnc/Activity_Search/305

Charlotte Hamfest 2017 March 10-11 Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 4751 Highway 49 N., Concord • QSL card checking on Saturday; VE testing performed by WCARS: Saturday, 2:00pm • 35,000-square-foot flea market • Sponsored by W4BFB: Mecklenburg Amateur Radio Society Inc. • www.charlottehamfest.org

A Vet Together March 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 Senior Health & Wellness Expo March 8 • 9:00am-1:00pm Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 4751 Highway 49 N., Concord • Promotes local health resources and wellness education to the aging • Health screenings, interactive educational sessions and health and wellness-related exhibitors • 704-920-3488; www.cabarruscounty.us The Listening Room March 9 • 10:00am-2:00pm The Davis Theatre 65 Union Street S., Concord • Gives local talent the opportunity to perform in a casual atmosphere.

Performers must apply in advance; acts should be G-rated.

• 704-920-2787; listenroom@yahoo.com

Concord on Canvas Party & Live Auction March 10 • 7:00pm Bridge entrance beyond Depot at Gibson Mill 325 McGill Avenue N.W., Concord • Includes a Taste of Downtown Concord with samples of food from many of our great restaurants, complimentary locally-produced craft beer and wine, live music, a silent auction and the live auction.

• Bidding for the live auction begins at $100 per painting.

• 704-784-4208; www.concorddowntown.com Kannapolis Arts Showcase March 10 • 7:00-10:00pm Sunshine’s Asian Cuisine 215 West A Street, Kannapolis • Inviting artists to come out with three pieces of their work to be put on display at Sunshine’s Asian Cuisine.

• A stage is available for open mic performers.

• mknox@modernfilminc.com; www.kannapolisarts.com

2nd Saturday Open Studios at CLEARWATER ARTIST STUDIOS March 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 Kannapolis Cruise-In March 11 • 1:00-7:00pm • Free Corner of West Avenue and First Street, downtown Kannapolis • This family-fun event brings out thousands of show cars and spectators.

• 704-932-3808; www.cabarrusevents.org The Cabarrus Quilt Guild March 13 • Doors open 6:00pm Forest Hill United Methodist Church 265 Union Street N., Concord • Meet & Greet/refreshments: 6:15-6:45pm • Lecture by Laura Blanchard: Tips & Tricks for Stress-Free Quilting • www.CabarrusQuiltersGuild.com Friends of the Harrisburg Library Annual Meeting March 14 Harrisburg Library 201 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg • Speaker: Author A.J. Hartley, international and New York Times bestselling author of mystery/thriller, fantasy, historical fiction and young adult novels; and UNC Charlotte’s Robinson Distinguished Professor of Shakespeare • Election of FOHL officers for ‘17-’18 • www.friendsoftheharrisburglibrary. webs.com Memory Cafe´ March 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 March 17 • 7:00pm Kannapolis Train Station 201 S. Main Street, Kannapolis • Series of three classes: $20 per class • Everything you need to know about using skills obtained through writing fan fiction to create and publish original work.

• Taught by Lady Soliloque • www.kannapolisnc.gov/ Government-Departments/ParksRecreation/Programs-Events Habitat Cabarrus St. Patrick’s Day Party March 18 • 6:00-10:00pm Great Wolf Lodge 10175 Weddington Road, Concord • Silent and live auction, raffle • Plated dinner, dancing, costume contest, photo booth • Tickets and sponsorships: www.habitatcabarrus.org/stpatricksday Run KannapolisSpring It On 5K March 18 • 8:00am Downtown Kannapolis • Part of the City’s Discover a Healthy Life brand in which eight running events are offered throughout the year • www.runkannapolis.com Daytime Adult Painting Class March 22 • 10:00am • $30 Kannapolis Train Station 201 S. Main Street, Kannapolis • Instructor will guide you step by step. All materials will be provided and no experience is necessary.

• You are invited to bring your own finger foods in case you get hungry during the break.

• Offered through Kannapolis Arts/ DKI and Kannapolis Parks and Recreation Department • www.kannapolisnc.gov

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY March 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 VW & Vintage Bicycle Social March 26 • 4:00-8:00pm Lil Robert’s Place Taps & Caps 25 Union Street S., Concord • Bring the family and friends. If you have a VW or bike, bring it too. Check out the rides, visit, eat and shop.

• 704-795-2337; www.lilrobertsplace.com cabarrus chamber Business After Hours March 28 • 5:30-7:00pm Location TBD • 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 Crafts for the Home with Jenny March 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 Antiques & Collectibles

White Owl Antique Mall & Design Center Page 3 8455 NC Highway 49 N., Mt. Pleasant, NC 28124 704-436-2063 www.whiteowlantiquemall.com

Automotive Maintenance

Certec Automotive Page 22 2215 Roxie Street, Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-795-2426 • 800-264-6823 www.certecautomotive.com

Automotive Sales

Ben Mynatt Nissan Page 12 629 Jake Alexander Boulevard (I-85, Exit 75) Salisbury, NC 28147 704-633-7270 www.benmynattnissan.com

Breweries/Event Venues

Cabarrus Brewing Company Page 32 329 McGill Avenue, Concord, NC 28027 704-490-4487 www.cabarrusbrewing.com

Carpet/Flooring

Carpet To Go & More Page 3 701 Concord Parkway N., Concord, NC 28025 704-956-2866 www.carpet2go.com

Caterering Services

Fruitful Catering 704-467-3062 fruitfulcatering@cs.com www.facebook.com/Fruitful Catering

Churches

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New Hope Worship Center Page 3 452 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

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Dula Real Estate Page 23 18145 W. Catawba Avenue, Cornelius, NC 28031 704-895-1011 www.dularealestate.com Carolina CompuTech 850 Union Street S. Concord, NC 28025 704-785-8066 • 704-785-8076 tech@carolinacomputech.com www.carolinacomputech.com

Event Venues

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

Cannon Pharmacy Page 13 760 Cabarrus Avenue W., Concord, NC 28027 704-788-6337 1706 S. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-933-6337

Commercial Real Estate

Computer Sales, Service and Repair

Pharmacies

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1402 N. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-933-7948 www.cannonpharmacies.com Harrisburg Hometown Pharmacy Page 22 5006 Highway 49 S., Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-454-RX4U (7948) www.harrisburgpharmacy.com

Photographers

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Funeral Homes

Hartsell Funeral Homes Page 30 460 Branchview Dr. N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-1161 13575 Broadway Avenue, Midland, NC 28107 704-888-5571 522 N. Second Street, Albemarle, NC 28001 704-983-1188 www.hartsellfh.com Wilkinson Funeral Home Page 7 100 Branchview Drive N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-3168 www.wilkinsonfuneralhome.com

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

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Print & Technology Services

Modern Impressions Page 17 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

Restaurants

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

Satellite TV and Internet Providers Spectrum 1-800-595-4610 www.charter.com

Theatres – Live

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Old Courthouse Theatre Page 3 49 Spring Street N.W., Concord, NC 28025 704-788-2405 www.oldcourthousetheatre.org

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Buy One, Get One Free Reserved-Level Ticket!

Valid for any home game in April or May 2017 With this coupon, courtesy of Cabarrus Magazine

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