Cm march15web

MARCH 2015

Picking:

The Thrill of the Hunt... and the Find

Re-purposing Old Buildings: Glory Days

Crime Stoppers:

The Rushco Convenience Store Case

Breaking Bread: Chef Ferguson Dishes

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March 2015 3 n

Word on the Street March 2015 Volume 15 n Issue 3 President Pam Tolen

Managing Editor/Art Direction Kim Cassell Advertising Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle Contributing Writers Kim Cassell NC Research Campus Contributing Photographers Michael A. Anderson Photography Scott Cassell Camilla Ferguson Cabarrus Magazine is published by: Comfort Publishing Inc. 296 Church Street N. Hidden Plaza Concord, NC 28025 For editorial inquiries, call 704-782-2353 or email them to Kim Cassell at kcassell@ cabarrusmagazine.com. For advertising inquiries, call Jason Huddle at 704-907-7847 or Kimberly Brouillette at 704-305-7599.

Visit us at www.cabarrusmagazine.com.

All rights reserved. ©2015, Comfort Publishing Inc., 296 Church Street N., Concord, NC 28025. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without permission is prohibited. Products named in these pages are trademarks of their respective companies.

The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Cabarrus Magazine or Comfort Publishing Inc.

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Rachel Fesko

Publisher Jason Huddle

With the popularity of shows like History Channel’s American Pickers, the hobby of “picking” has become more and more mainstream in the past few years. I must admit, I don’t know a lot about picking beyond what I’ve learned from watching TV. Sometimes to me, it seems to be a combination of Hoarders and Antiques Roadshow, yet, at the same time, it is strangely captivating. In any case, we know there are many in Cabarrus County who enjoy picking, collecting and re-purposing, and we thought we’d make this issue about them.

Not only that, but we’re going inside Gibson Mill and The Old Creamery at Church and Peachtree. Both were once sad testaments to the demise of some bygone industries. Now they – and others – have proven to be successful in another life, serving as a home to offices, retail, restaurants and warehousing.

The history geek inside me loves this kind of stuff! I love imagining the item or building in its original condition. I imagine the people that would have used it. What were they like? What was their world like? What kind of history unfolded in their day? I hope, this month, we instill a little of that inquisitive passion inside you.

Historically yours,

Jason Huddle

This Issue...

Hidden Treasures 6

Picking: The Thrill of the Hunt...and the Find

13

Crime Stoppers: The Rushco Convenience Store Case

14

Restoring Our Old Buildings: Glory Days

22

Give Me Shelter: Adoptable Dogs in Cabarrus County

23

Breaking Bread: Chef Ferguson Dishes

24

Cabarrus Businesses: On the Go

26

NCRC: Can Polyphenols Get You Fitter Faster?

27

March Events: What’s Happening?

March 2015 5 n

By Kim Cassell

The Thrill of the Hunt... and the Find Due in large part to popular television shows like American Pickers, Storage Wars and Pawn Stars, picking has become a phenomenon. The common denominator is love of the collectible.

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Whether it’s done on a part-time basis for purely personal reasons or full-time as a business, picking means the rejuvenation of Americana. Items that have sat unrecognized in family attics or back yard sheds for possibly decades are being unearthed. These finds shed light on a lifestyle – one that’s rich with history.

For those picking for profit, what dictates something of value? It’s agreed that mass-produced items like collector plates, Beanie Babies and Franklin Mint coins will not likely gain much in value over the long term. The real finds are the rare and unusual. This prompts pickers to go the extra mile, literally.

Concord’s Chet and Michele Shirah have owned Bargain Basement Antiques since 2008. “Not long compared to a lot of people,” Chet says. “It is a full-time job that we do as a second job. We plan to do this as our full-time job in 2016 (for Michele) and 2017 for me. I guess I always had it in the back of my head to do something like this.”

The Shirahs’ story is one of life imitating art. They’ve seen their business move out of their basement (the namesake), selling items they already owned but "

Chet and Michele Shirah own Bargain Basement Antiques. They have a passion for the pick.

chose not to keep for themselves; that temporarily evolved to yard sales and flea markets.

Like others with a passion, they’ve chosen to take their own road…one that now leads to estate sales and travels to better treasures (hopefully).

Those travels include regular treks to Springfield, OH, and Brimfield, MA. Estate sales are often found through estatesales.net as well as a valuable network of wholesalers and fellow pickers.

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Referring to estate sales, some are free-for-alls. “One woman we know sells to dealers. She holds tag sales; every item has a tag,” Chet explains.

“About 45 to 60 people line up at the door. We have stickers with our name on them and when she opens the door, we go through and put our stickers on big items and put others in bags we bring in ourselves.”

Today, the Shirahs sell their finds in a number of locations, including The Depot, at the Metrolina Tradeshow

Expo, on eBay and directly to other wholesalers. They’ve been able to establish a national network where other pickers they’ve come to know and do business with are always on the lookout for items they know the Shirahs will buy; Chet and Michele will even provide a list. Price point and reputation precede them, making for smooth transactions and longterm business relationships.

An obvious key to a picker’s success is knowing what will sell.

“Generally, an antique is 75 years or older; vintage is about 50 years. A collectible can be even newer,” Chet says. “But old does not always mean more value/money. Some handmade are done by craftsmen and are very valuable (furniture or duck decoys are examples). Some handmade are made with old materials/wood.

“It’s a constant challenge to keep up with what’s popular: magazines, other vendors, Pinterest. With some themes, you’ll have a run and a bunch will sell. You’ll buy a bunch more and then it sits.”

The Shirahs have some positive constants in their inventory: tools, advertising, military. “This might be due to men being huge collectors,” Chet says. “For women, vintage kitchen is always popular. Industrial and architectural have been, and will remain, very popular in 2015.

One item that is trendy right now is records. We sell a lot of them.

Magazines, linens, trunks, vintage

Christmas. These are all things that are found in attics and are tried and true sellers.”

The Shirahs admit that the thrill is in the find…like a golden needle in a hay stack. “We found an armadillo basket in an estate a few years ago.

It was an actual armadillo shell.

Apparently they were popular in the early 1900s,” Chet shares. “The most valuable was a 45 RPM record that was one of the top 100 rarest northern soul records in the world. We didn’t know that when we found it – also in an estate sale. The record, we sold on eBay, and the basket we sold to a customer.”

And to show the importance of knowledgeable colleagues…”We had a big, tall vase marked $80,” Chet says. “A guy we know saw it and knew what it was; it sold for $400. You learn to get in touch with folks who know the value of certain items.”

Ruffin’s Roost Tiffany Ruffin is owner of Ruffin’s Roost in Mount Pleasant. A product of 1980s California, she scoured thrift shops and flea markets as a teenager, looking for Madonna-inspired clothing. “I loved vintage slips, old tuxedo jackets, rosaries, cowboy boots, etc.,” Ruffin says. “My desire for vintage grew from there and it has been a full-time job for me since I opened my first shop in California at 24 years old.”

In fact, one of her favorite finds has

Ruffin’s Roost’s niche is primitive country.

traveled cross-country with her. “The coolest piece I’ve found, and I mean that literally, was in the dumpster by my shop in Los Angeles. I drove by

and took a double take, drove around again and there it was on the top of the pile! A petite French Florentine cabinet with the perfect chippy "

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“For women, vintage kitchen is always popular. Industrial and architectural have been, and will remain, very popular in 2015.

- Chet Shirah cream and gilt gold patina! I boldly climbed the dumpster and rescued this beauty. It remains with me in front of a window in our historic farmhouse in Cabarrus County!”

Ruffin’s shop is filled with similar

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finds. “I like to use the word ‘vintage’ to describe a lot of what the style of our shop carries. Primitive antiques definitely have long-term popularity and retain their value, from what I’ve seen in our shop. Many people love

collecting old crocks, graters, wood tureens, pottery, linens, and furnish their homes in this style. It seems very popular in this area and we have encountered many individuals looking for original Cabarrus Countymade furniture and collectibles.

“Everything vintage has some value. There are collectors of so many different things out there – from old cameras and records, to soda bottles and cutting boards, to flatware and dishes. You just never know, so, before throwing it away, do some research!

In her experience, Ruffin sees more value in older items rather than newer, handmade ones – she considers a true antique to be at least 100 years old. However, she says, “I was taught many years ago by an old picker that the value of an item is only what someone is willing to pay for it when it gets into the shop.”

Whatever a buyer’s taste might be, Ruffin sees it stemming from some sweet memory or experience from their past. “I hear so many times at the shop, ‘We had one of these growing up,’ or, ‘I remember that from my grandma’s house.’

“I’m not sure if it’s where our shop is located, but our customers seem

For a lot of pickers, the “chippier,” the better.

to really love farmhouse-type items.

Wood breadboards and dough bowls are items that are desired. I definitely see people restoring their old homes and looking for architectural items such as old doors, windows and moldings. If they have newer homes, they are adding pieces of the past to create a vintage style and warmth in their home. The more timeworn – like rusty metal and chippy painted things are – the better!

Pickin’ & Grinnin’ Pam Cooper has been collecting her entire adult life. Two years ago, she and her family took the next step and opened Pickin’ & Grinnin’ in Concord. Unlike some other pickers, Cooper and her son, Ben Davis, buy storage units.

“I’ve always loved to pick, but that was more for myself. My husband refinished furniture, Cooper says.

“Then we started buying storage

lockers about four years ago. We would then sell the items on Craigslist. We really like the vintage and the old and the antique, but we just recently came into a set-up with newer stuff and that’s bringing more people in to buy the vintage and the antique.”

Cooper sees their male customers buying more for nostalgia, while the women buy for the value, or to re-purpose an item. “Re-purposing is around to stay for a while, and I am glad. I hate to throw away anything. We have become a wasteful nation and I am always happy to see something used in a new way,” she says.

Cooper has seen success in reselling old comic books, sports cards, antique furniture, artwork, Fiestaware and pottery (depending on who it’s made by). “We have found that vintage signs, antique tools, old auto and gasoline advertising, and "

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March 2015 11 n

Pickin’ & Grinnin’ gets its items by way of storage units.

antique railroad items sell well,” she says. “Old metal toys and guitars do well also. Shabby chic is still popular.”

Cooper considers anything 100 years or older an antique, but says, “As always, price is determined by many things. It is hard to compare antiques to homemade; it’s kind of like comparing apples to oranges.”

Placing a winning bid on a storage unit and hoping to discover a real find inside is truly a stab in the dark, but

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it does happen…a $5,000 pool table, solid brass General Electric signs, even an ATM machine.

At the end of the day, Cooper enjoys the “shop local” aspect of her business. “These shops are local, we’re buying local and, nine times of out 10, we’re selling local. You have to start from the home, workplace, then community.”

The future of picking and what it will look like is somewhat uncertain.

Many pickers agree that travel outside of the region is now often necessary because so much has been “picked over.” It also takes an experienced eye to spot something that may be covered in dirt and buried under years of clutter. Regardless, don’t discard what you might find in Grandma’s attic as junk. Get ahold of a reputable local dealer that can tell you exactly what you have. You might be pleasantly surprised! n

March 2015 13 n

By Kim Cassell

Glory Days No one enjoys seeing blight; empty buildings tend to reflect the economic stability of a city.

While some represent business and industry of a bygone era, they also represent the unique architecture and character of a period.

They were looking for Rhode Island and found California; from left: Tom Cotter, George Liles Jr. and Joe Liles

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The Preservation Green Lab of the National Trust for Historic Preservation conducted a study in 2012 and produced a report from its findings. Entitled, The Greenest Building: Quantifying the Value of Building Reuse, it found that, “Each year, approximately 1 billion square feet of buildings are demolished and replaced with new construction. Reusing existing buildings is good for the economy, the community and the environment.”

The report says that, economically, re-purposing old buildings saw private investors bankroll $90 billion into projects between 1980 and 2012 on a national level. Much of this money benefitted local communities, spent on the 2 million jobs generated and necessary construction materials purchased.

Environmentally, reuse of original structural elements – brick, concrete, wood – saves natural resources. The Preservation Green Lab report says, “It can take up to 80 years for a new energy-efficient building to overcome, through efficient operations, the climate change impacts created by its construction. Renovation projects that require many new materials can reduce or even negate the benefits of reuse.”

On a community level, preserving the historical significance of our old buildings draws tourism, commerce and pride. Thankfully, there are visionaries in Cabarrus County who are compelled to save these buildings rather than tear them down and start from scratch. "

The main building in the Gibson Mill complex is now home to beautifully restored office and retail space while 28,000 square feet in an adjacent building is still untouched.

Gibson Mill In 1899, Gibson Manufacturing Company – now referred to as Gibson Mill – began operations under the ownership of the Cannon family.

Manufacturing towels and hosiery, the mill operated for more than 100 years, closing its doors in July 2003 when so much manufacturing went overseas.

In June 2004, George Liles Jr., Tom Cotter, Joe Liles and Trey Burnette of SouthPaw Investors purchased Gibson Mill. “That is an interesting evolution,” George Liles says. “I had an opportunity to work with Tom years ago. Cotter Communications built a facility and I had the privilege of doing that project. That company continued to evolve and he ended up selling the company.

“Joe and Tom decided they wanted to pursue an automobile storage facility. Everything they looked at had issues. Simultaneous to that going on, Pillowtex Plant 6 (Gibson Mill) came on the market through bankruptcy.

I contacted Tom and Joe one day to come over and look at this facility.

I’ll never forget, we were standing on the roof and Tom said we ‘d been looking for Rhode Island and found California.”

Liles is referring to the 660,000 square feet and 58 acres that make up the Gibson Mill property. Yes, the partners got their car storage space with AutoBarn Classic Cars and Collector Car Storage & Sales, and so much more…Vintage Motor Club (now City Club), Carolina Rustica and US Mattress. New life has been breathed into the old mill in the form of keyman executive office space, retail and the largest antique mall in the Southeast: The Depot.

Since Liles is president and founder of Liles Construction, he knew what to look for the day he and his partners toured the old mill. “The roof. It’s the maker or breaker of a deal. If you don’t have good roofs, you’re starting with a very strong hit. Some (rooftops at the mill) were practically brand new, none 16 Cabarrus Magazine n

were very old,” he explains. “There was very conscientious maintenance of this facility: economic clean-up of the property, underground storage tanks were removed.”

What Liles and his associates bought is about half the size of the original mill complex. “Where all the parking lots are was once original buildings, demolished in the mid-‘90s and covered up with grass,” he says. “We started putting in parking lots and exposed a couple of underground vaults; one still housed an old pump.”

Discoveries were not limited to the exterior. “The first time we ever visited this facility, it was like Armageddon,” Liles continues. “All the stations were still set up with personal effects, sodas, open snack packages, etc. Those are now in storage with the hopes of setting up a museum or kiosk someday.”

Liles Construction has served as contractor for the re-purposing of Gibson Mill, starting at the front door.

The current front entrance originally went into an electrical room and the vestibule was once a locker room with adjacent restrooms that are now part of City Club. Concrete floors have a highgloss seal, preserving the imperfections derived from so many years of use.

Exposed brick and original paint pepper the interior.

“We have some stained-glass windows in our break room. The lady who owned a stained-glass business (Yolonda Shimpock with Celestial Glassworks) walked around and gathered artifacts that she thought might be interesting,” Liles explains.

“She took those objects and glass from different parts of the building and used them as part of her design.

“The clock tower was/is an elevator shaft. It projects so high above the building because there used to be catwalks between the buildings that have been demolished. The elevator buttons are still on the wall.

“When Richard (Sexton of Carolina

Rustica) moved in, when we were going through the initial space with him, we had steel columns with chipped paint. We told Richard we could paint the columns. He said, ‘No, that’s shabby chic, that’s what we want.’

This space (Liles Construction), this entire area, the walls were all painted.

We sandblasted here. We had second thoughts because of the enormity of the job, but we’ve had no regrets.”

Another decision Liles doesn’t regret is the inclusion of The Depot, an 88,000-square-foot antique mall developed in 2010. “We stumbled into that,” he explains. “We had a tenant here that dabbled in the antique market; they approached us about the concept. We did that on a shoestring budget with minimal investment.

We already had the parking lot and restrooms so all we had to do was create an attractive storefront and add some heat. Our goal was to see it through to spring and see if it had potential. When we originally "

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Harris Morrison is in the process of revitalizing additional space within The Old Creamery into executive key-man office suites with shared common areas.

started, we only had the one room. We had to add Room 2 to the left before we even opened because Room 1 was already full.”

Today, The Depot houses more than 600 booths in five rooms. Liles actually looks stumped when asked why the antique mall concept has been so successful. “We’ve got a really sharp manager at The Depot,” he says. “Janna (Baker) knows this business inside and out, and has a sense of what will work.

It’s remarkable to hear her explain how she makes it work.”

As to what’s ahead for the rest of

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the mill property, it’s clear that more development is on the horizon.

Construction equipment sits adjacent to The Depot’s parking lot, in front of a 28,000-square-foot mill building toward the back of the property.

“We’re expanding the parking lot for The Depot – space is at a premium on Saturdays – and for the building in the back, some of the oldest space with the old, original clearstory (windows above eye level that bring in more light and/ or air). It makes for a lot of character,” Liles says. “It would make an awesome restaurant space or a market-type

environment, similar to the old slave market in Charleston. With the level of activity with The Depot, we would like something back there that would complement.”

There are also three to four acres of undeveloped property located on the other side of a stream. Liles and his partners are still in the thinking stages of what would best suit the spot. One concept sees modern, clear-span warehouse space. Clearspan is an energy-efficient fabric shell that eliminates the need for daytime lighting within, and is warm in the

winter and cool in the summer.

Regardless, Liles maintains a “We’re going to build it and wait for them to come” sentiment. “We had the ability to cover our investments from Day 1. We’ve generated enough revenue to cover the costs, which took all the pressure off of us that we had to immediately build out the property,” he says, adding, “There’s no way you can rebuild this building in today’s market for what we paid for it. And it has historical significance. Everyone who comes through here had an experience with Plant 6.”

Liles can visualize breathing new life into other historical buildings, saying, “We’re waiting to completely saturate this facility, and see that happening in the next two to three years. We’ve enjoyed the repurposing of old mills.

You don’t work off a set of drawings.

You have a budget, but you don’t know how funds will be distributed.

You constantly are figuring things out.

We’ve got old galvanized water lines.

Do we repair or replace? I’m a fixer. I love shooting from the hip.”

The enthusiasm is clear and Liles isn’t waiting to get his hands dirty again. He’s currently working with Harris Morrison on executive office suites in The Old Creamery at Church and Peachtree, another historical repurposing.

“Are we aiding and abetting the competition? No, there’s plenty of space for everyone,” Liles says. “The Concord Hotel did a cost study of redevelopment. My eye is on that next.”

The Old Creamery at Church and Peachtree The Cabarrus Creamery put down roots in the early 1900s on Union Street South as a cooperative dairy.

From that location, the Burrage family “bottled milk from local farmers and distributed it throughout the region,” according to thecreameryconcord.com.

“After starting a successful ice cream brand called Cabarrus Ideal, they built the existing Church Street facility in 1940. The building was originally art-deco style architecture before being brick veneered later. Over time, the business evolved to include condensed milk, butter, milk powder and other dairy products.”

The Charlotte Coca-Cola Bottling Company moved in next door to the Creamery, operating in that location until 1972. While their relocation brought an end to a popular partnership, it opened the door for the Burrages to purchase the Coke building. They did that in 1974 to expand their own operations – their ice

cream business remained very popular – but closed for good in 2001.

Harris Morrison, CCIM, is principal manager of Harris Morrison Company (HMC), in Concord. As a commercial real estate developer native to Cabarrus County, he’s seen the changes in the business landscape. In December 2006, he purchased the old Cabarrus Creamery and Coca-Cola buildings.

“I had a vision for something special; it had a landmark status,” Morrison says. “It’s a lot easier in some cases to tear down and start over, but if you find a building with a good superstructure, you take what you have. It’s what gives it its flavor and character.”

Morrison also saw valuable existing infrastructure: sewer, water, sidewalks and bus stops. “You don’t have to go to a green field and start over,” he says. “It reduces blight. It’s on a main street so there’s certainly commercial viability.”

When HMC purchased the property, it was from a Charlotte developer that had already made some changes to the facade. Morrison then had to make "

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March 2015 19 n

Governor’s Visit On January 30, N.C. Governor Pat McCrory visited the Concord Hotel to announce his support of reinstating historic tax credits. His plan was to reintroduce the program in his budget, which was presented to legislators on February 4 as part of his State of the State speech.

The Historic Tax Credit Program provides tax incentives to those wanting to restore historic buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The tax credits ran out at the end of 2014 and were not extended by the legislature, a move that threatens to stall what are considered vital projects that affect tourism and jobs statewide.

McCrory urges North Carolinians that support the credits to contact their state representatives and make their voices heard in Raleigh.

some tough decisions about the rest of the property, which sits on seven acres.

“I hated to tear down a garage located behind the Coke building, but I had to. I’m environmentally conscious so we decided to bury it on-site. We actually dug a deep hole further back in the parking lot and buried the debris.

We then moved the dirt to the garage ground.”

This leveled the land and allowed for easier development of the parking lot. Inside, Morrison found, among other things, water on the floors and a collapsed ceiling. Along the way, plumbing, electrical, windows and the roof have been replaced where needed.

“We preserved the Coca-Cola entrance, the octagonal windows, brickwork, the buttresses. And the Board of Elections (in the Creamery building) did a fantastic job, taking inspiration from the old bowstring trusses,” Morrison explains. “The

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Independent Tribune used to be a loading dock. There were 15 to 20 inches between floor levels, so we took out a wall, built a retaining wall, and used the brick from the old wall and buried it to raise that part of the floor.

“The initial plans were for office and retail and, by and large, it’s come in like that. There’s probably more office than I was anticipating. We saw the Creamery building as a large retail center, but the Board of Elections wanted to buy it.”

Adding to that office space is a number of executive key-man suites taking shape in the Coca-Cola building. HMC is working with Liles Construction in creating multi-office suites with common lobby, kitchen/ break room, restroom and conference room spaces for its lessees. Care has been taken to preserve as much of the structure’s character as possible, with exposed brick, large windows, old

United Way of Central Carolinas – Cabarrus County resides in Old Creamery office space that combines rustic industrial with state-of-the-art.

paint, etc. It has a modern industrial vibe that many of today’s professionals find motivating and inspirational.

A courtyard runs between the two buildings, adding cohesion for other tenants that draw patrons to that space for events or to enjoy their purchases.

These include Cougar Run Winery, Ritchie Hill Bakery and The Peachtree Market.

Lisa and Brian Perry of Perry Productions are working with HMC to market the office space…and become tenants. “We had pretty pictures, but people couldn’t see it,” Morrison says, referring to the space pre-construction.

“We were fortunate enough to find some folks who were willing to buy in to the story early on. That’s probably the hardest thing about a project like this – people can’t visualize. The collapsed roof is now Lisa’s space. For five years, that space sat empty and I couldn’t sell anybody else on it. I did it myself and now we have Lisa and several other tenants.”

“My husband and I worked from home for 20 years and we looked at

the space when it was a shell,” Perry says. “Then Harris started with the month-to-month office leasing. It’s not feasible for us to lease an office for three years. This type of shared environment has certainly given us an opportunity. I think, in a lot of ways, for small businesses, it levels the playing field. I can compete with bigger businesses and have the same benefits and amenities. When you talk about a marketing company, I want them to stop by my office and say ‘wow.’ ” There is room – and preliminary plans have been drawn up – for future

buildings on the property…three, at this point. However, that expansion will not take place in the foreseeable future. “If we had a strong tenant/ buyer who wanted to take one of the new buildings, we’d move forward,” Morrison says. “But we need to secure this space first.”

Regardless of the end-uses or the timeline, seeing these historical old structures come back to life is a longterm investment in Cabarrus County that can now be enjoyed by the next generation of movers and shakers. n

March 2015 21 n

Give Me Shelter THERE ARE SEVERAL ANIMAL RESCUES IN CABARRUS COUNTY, USUALLY PAST CAPACITY, FILLED WITH ADOPTABLE DOGS, CATS AND MORE!

GILBY is the epitome of patience, and it’s definitely time to reward him for that! A resident of the Humane Society for some two years, Gilby, five, is a very sweet Hound mixed with maybe Boxer or Retriever. He gets along well with other dogs and would love to have a big yard to run in; he also enjoys taking walks on a leash.

He would be better suited in a home where there are no small children, but would do great with older kids.

Please come visit this handsome boy with the silky-soft coat at Ruth’s Memorial Shelter.

Humane Society of Concord & Greater Cabarrus County Ruth’s Memorial Shelter 2010 Wilshire Court, Concord 704-784-7387 www.cabarrushumanesociety.org 22 Cabarrus Magazine n

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.

TRIXIE is a female Jack Russell mix, approximately three years old and weighing about 15 pounds. She is up-to-date on vaccines, spayed, microchipped, house-trained and cratetrained. Trixie is great with people, including children, but absolutely cannot live with cats.

She does well with other dogs as long as she is introduced carefully and given a chance to get to know them a little. The Jack Russell is typically a high-energy breed that requires stimulation and exercise. They make great joggers, agility dogs and hikers. Come meet Trixie; she’s ready for her next big adventure!

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

Breaking Bread cabarrus magazine is happy to feature personal CHEF CAMILLA FERGUSON. she WILL BE BRINGING ONE OF HER OWN RECIPES TO CABARRUS MAGAZINE READERS EACH MONTH, so Bon Appetit!

Soba Noodles with Eggplant and Mango INGREDIENTS 1/2-cup rice vinegar (or white wine vinegar) 3 Tbsp. white sugar 1/2 tsp. salt 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1/2 fresh red chili (if you like spicy) 1 Tbsp. toasted sesame oil Juice of 1 lime

1/2-cup sunflower oil (use more if necessary on second batch) 2 small eggplants, diced 8 to 9 ounces soba noodles (in Asian section) 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced 1 cup basil leaves 1/2 red onion, very thinly sliced

DIRECTIONS In a small saucepan, gently warm the vinegar, sugar and salt for up to one minute, just until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and add garlic, chili, sesame oil and lime juice. Heat the sunflower oil in a large pan and saute the eggplant in batches. When golden brown, drain in a colander, sprinkle with salt and allow to drain. (Eggplant will sweat if not salted.) Cook the noodles in boiling salted water, stirring occasionally. Do not overcook, as they will become mushy; five minutes should do it. When cool enough to handle, press between paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a large bowl, toss the noodles with the dressing, mango, eggplant, herbs and the onion. Serves six.

Cami Ferguson has a passion for food that was developed at an early age.

As a child, she watched her grandmother make homemade Italian specialties as well as her dad cooking “Southern soul food.” Between the two, she learned a lot about different culinary styles. Her horizons were further broadened and tweaked by her exposure to a large variety of global cuisines during her extensive travels. She has turned all of those experiences into one joyous profession.

As a personal chef, Ferguson performs a variety of services for individuals, couples, families and small groups. She encourages everyone to enjoy quality time over intimate dinners with family or friends without the stress of planning, shopping, preparing, pick-up or cleanup, and can design menus – from basic to elegant – to satisfy many individual tastes, needs and budgets.

Chef Ferguson can be reached at 704-330-9321, CamillaFerguson@ gmail.com or at her website: www.CuisineByCami.com. n

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On the Go Raleigh Neurology Associates Enrolls 100th MS Patient in Groundbreaking Study

Dr. Bradley J. Robottom, general adult neurologist with Raleigh Neurology Associates

Simon Gregory, PhD, principal investigator for the MURDOCK Multiple Sclerosis Study

Sarah Maichle, clinical research coordinator for Duke’s MURDOCK Study

Sean Walsh, director of clinical research for Raleigh Neurology

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Raleigh Neurology Associates has reached the 100-patient milestone for the MURDOCK Multiple Sclerosis Study, a long-term health research project based at the North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) in Kannapolis. Raleigh Neurology partnered with Duke in July 2014 to help recruit 1,000 people with multiple sclerosis and 100 people with Primary Progressive MS. Simon Gregory, PhD, is principal investigator for the MURDOCK Multiple Sclerosis Study and associate professor at the Duke Molecular Physiology Institute at Duke University School of Medicine. He and his team are working to identify the genetic underpinnings of complex diseases like MS and understand disease development and progression at the molecular level.

While Duke recruits MS patients at several locations in North Carolina, Raleigh Neurology is the only independent enrollment site for the MURDOCK Study and enrolls between six and eight patients per week.

Gregory’s team wants to generate biomarkers – measurable molecular indicators in the body – that would allow researchers to reclassify MS and lead to the development of tests that physicians would use to diagnose the disease and determine which treatments are best based on a patient’s genetic profile.

To learn more or start the enrollment process, call Raleigh Neurology at 919782-3456. In the Durham area, call Sarah Maichle at 919-695-6413. In the Charlotte area, call 704-250-5861 or visit www.murdock-study.org. This is not a drug study, so participants will not receive any form of treatment. Enrollment takes about 90 minutes, and volunteers are compensated.

JOYPROM 2015 to be Held March 21 This year’s JOYPROM – an event coordinated by Harrisburg non-profit Joyful Hearts – will be held at Jay M. Robinson High School on Saturday, March 21.

As a full-scale prom for those with cognitive and physical impairments – both in high school and adults – the goal is to honor the guests with a firstclass event that gives them an evening to remember. The experience recognizes the individual guest first and then their disability, while providing a positive environment free of judgment or negativity.

Guests enjoy their experience along with their peers in a protected, safe, controlled and comfortable environment. The JOYPROM experience empowers guests to be confident, fosters inclusion, builds self-esteem and inspires friendships.

JOYPROM begins with invitations to our guests. Guests are not only invited to the JOYPROM, but are also invited to select a formal gown, suit and accessories at our JOYPROM Closet. All clothing has been donated by friends, family and the community.

On the night of the prom, the guests drive up to the curb where car doors are opened and volunteers provide assistance with unloading the guest while their parents/caregivers park the car. Then they are taken to check-in and receive their name tag. After this process, it’s time for Glitz & Glamour. The ladies are escorted to an area where they are treated to make-up and hair touch-ups and the men get their shoes shined. The women then receive a tiara and the men a boutonniere.

If you would like more information on how to volunteer for JOYPROM or know someone that could benefit from JOYPROM, please contact Sherry Peele at speele@joyfulheartsnc.org. Also visit our website at www.joyfulheartsnc.org.

Learning Rx Celebrates with Open House Learning Rx is celebrating its oneyear anniversary in Concord with an Open House. The public is invited to stop by the center on Thursday, March 5, from 4:00-7:00pm. Located at 30010 Edison Square N.W. in Concord, the Open House will include a ribbon-cutting with the Chamber of Commerce, a free tour and brain training, door prizes, food and drinks, Bingo, and an opportunity to bring From left to right: Laura Ward, Erin Morris, and donate a new “board book” for David Henderson, Brenda Henderson, Will Bright Blessings, a non-profit serving Henderson, Victoria Fernandez and Stephanie Holbrook homeless and impoverished children.

During the month of April, Learning Rx will be conducting free workshops on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at Discovery Place Kids in Huntersville. For more information, call Learning Rx at 704-499-8888 or send an email to charlottenorth.nc@learningrx.net.

Alevo Appoints Director of Sales & Field Operations Alevo Group has appointed Jeff Gates as director of sales and field operations. An acknowledged leader in the energy industry, Jeff Gates he will head Alevo’s energy storage deployment and operations out of the company’s Concord manufacturing headquarters.

Gates will be responsible for GridBank customer sales and helping strengthen Alevo’s position as the driving force in the energy storage industry.

Gates joins Alevo after a 14-year career at Duke Energy, where he specialized in energy storage. His knowledge also stems from his role as vice-chair of the Energy Storage Association.

Kennedy Joins Law Firm of Moretz & Skufca Moretz & Skufca, PLLC, announces the addition of Diana Kennedy as community associations practice manager.

Kennedy, a Diana Kennedy respected leader in homeowner association (HOA) law, plans to expand the firm’s service and expertise in the flourishing field.

Kennedy brings more than17 years of experience as an HOA paralegal to the firm. She previously launched and developed community association practices for other area law firms and has served on three local HOA boards as a resident, providing her with a wide range of insight. Moretz & Skufca currently represents many homeowner associations throughout the Charlotte metro area and statewide. n

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Contributed by the N.C. Research Campus

NCRC to New Zealand, Scientists Ask: Can Polyphenols Get You Fitter Faster?

In the Exercise and Sports Science Laboratory at Queens University in Charlotte, two students pedal stationary bicycles rotating between one-minute intervals of heavy exertion and 75 seconds at a slower, resting pace.

These students are just two out of a total of 60 who will endure these workouts three times a week for four weeks to help an unprecedented consortium of scientists answer one question: can polyphenols, which are health-promoting compounds in plants, get you fitter faster?

“Our theory is that taking these polyphenols one hour before exercise will help the students’ bodies adapt to the high-intensity training better,” David Nieman, DrPH, director of the Appalachian State University (ASU) Human Performance Laboratory at the NC Research Campus in Kannapolis (NCRC) explains. “If polyphenols are at high levels in the body while the students train, there could be more stimuli to increase mitochondrial function and get fitter faster. This has never been tested in humans before.”

Nieman is leading the study in collaboration with Queens University and Plant & Food Research, a New Zealand Crown Research Institute that conducts research and development to add value to fruits, vegetables, cereals, marine 26 Cabarrus Magazine n

Does consuming polyphenols an hour before exercising enhance the workout?

fishes and native plants as food products and nutritional supplements.

The collaboration also involves NC State University Plants for Human Health Institute (PHHI) and Dole Foods, both at the NCRC. Funding from Plant & Food Research and Dole made the study possible.

ASU, Dole and NCSU are frequent NCRC collaborators, most often working with trained athletes. This study employs young, healthy, yet relatively unfit men and women who attend Queens. The first two cohorts of the study trained in the fall of 2014, and the third will train this spring.

Each cohort of students trains for four

weeks, with fitness testing during the week before and after the training period. They are given blackcurrant polyphenols in a capsule, blueberry powder or placebo as controls.

“There are two arms to the study: blackcurrants and blueberries,” Mary Ann Lila, PhD, PHHI director, explains. “Plant & Food Research is looking at a particular New Zealand blackcurrant extract and a particular anthocyanin (a type of polyphenol).

We are looking at whole blueberry freeze-dried into a powder. So the study is not pitting blackcurrants against blueberries.”

The study is combining resources

and focusing the efforts of groups with complementary research goals.

Plant & Food Research studies polyphenolic content and bioactive compounds and their effect on human performance, as do PHHI and ASU, respectively. The collaborators are looking for results with practical applications. Blackcurrants in New Zealand, like blueberries in the U.S., are a profitable crop with untapped market potential.

But can polyphenols get you fitter faster? The answer will be known after the last cohort of Queens University students completes the study and the data is analyzed later this year. n

March 2015 27 n

What’s Happening Interactive Lines March 2-6 The Galleries 65 Union St. S., Concord • Various forms and styles of drawings with an interactive twist • www.cabarrusartscouncil.org Brand New Opry March 5 • 7:30-9:30pm • $15 Davis Theatre 65 Union St. S., Concord • Traditional bluegrass featuring Jeff Whittington, John Culbreath, Pete Corum, Mike Wood and Jason Wood • 704-920-2753; www.cabarrusartscouncil.org Charlotte Elite men’s minor league basketball March 7, 14, 21, 28 • 3:00-5:00pm Cox Mill High School 1355 Cox Mill Road, Concord • A new minor league basketball team playing in the Tobacco Road Basketball League (TRBL) • Cabarrus and Mecklenburg County high school and college stars who have gone on to play professionally, domestically and abroad • www.elite.trblproball.com Piedmont Farmers Market March 7, 14, 21, 28 • 9:00am-12:00pm 518 Winecoff School Road, Concord • Open year-round. Fresh local produce, honey, free range eggs, antibiotic- and hormone-free beef, chicken and pork • www.piedmont-farmersmarket.com 28 Cabarrus Magazine n

The Cabarrus Quilt Guild March 9 • Doors open at 6:00pm Forest Hills Methodist Church 265 Union Street N., Concord • Guest speaker: Susan Brubaker Knapp, host of Quilting Arts TV • March 10 workshop entitled Buttons, Beads and Stitching Fun instructed by Renee Hoagland

Charlotte Hamfest Computer & Tech Expo March 13-14 Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 4571 Hwy. 49 North, Concord • 80 commercial booths, informative forums, build your own 2/440 dual band antenna, Bingo, 35,000 square feet of flea market shopping

chamber Business After Hours March 10 • 5:30-7:00pm Everything Billiards Charlotte 7730 Bruton Smith Blvd., Concord • Members are FREE; non-members are welcome three times per year: first visit is free, second and third visits are $10.

• Danielle Sumrell: 704-782-4000; dsumrell@cabarrus.biz

Concord on Canvas March 13 • 7:00-9:30pm Historic Downtown Concord • Original paintings by local artists and high school art students are on display throughout downtown Concord for four weeks. The artwork is then auctioned off at a live auction. Funds raised support the professional artists, the high school art departments and the CDDC. • 704-784-4208; www.concorddowntown.com

Senior Health & Wellness DaY March 11 • 9:00am-1:00pm Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 4751 Hwy. 49 South, Concord • Mammography van (appt. required at 704-403-1729), blood pressure, hearing, vision, skin screening, cholesterol, blood sugar & A1C (no fasting required) • Door prizes, exhibits, medication disposal, interactive & educational sessions, lunch • www.cabarruscounty.us/ activelivingandparks

Kannapolis Arts Showcase March 13, 28 • 7:00-9:00pm • FREE Sunshine’s Asian Cuisine 215 West A Street, Kannapolis • Artists are invited to come out with two to three pieces of their work. Share and discuss your work with other local artists. Please be ready by 7pm.

• Michael Knox: 828-231-5037; mknox@modernfilmsine.com; www.kannapolisarts.com

Advance Care Planning Workshop March 14 • 10:00am-12:00pm Mt. Mitchell United Methodist Church (Fellowship Hall) 6001 Old Salisbury-Concord Rd., Kannapolis • Chaplain Ric Durham, spiritual care director for Hospice and Palliative Care of Cabarrus County, will be conducting the workshop, which is open to anyone interested.

• Notaries public will be present, and no fee will be charged for anyone wishing to prepare a Living Will or Healthcare Power of Attorney.

• Mission Project for a Canned Food Drive • 704-933-0155 Kannapolis Cruise-In March 14 • 3:30-9:00pm Downtown Kannapolis • This family-fun event is free to the public and brings out thousands of show cars and spectators.

• 704-932-3808; www.downtownkannapolis.org KCS Spring it on 5K March 14 • 8:00am-12:00pm North Carolina Research Campus 150 N. Research Campus Dr., Kannapolis • Open to all ages. Proceeds benefit the Kannapolis Education Foundation.

• 704-938-1131; www.downtownkannapolis.org Cabarrus Christian Women’s Connection March 19 • 9:30am • $15 Cabarrus Country Club 3247 Weddington Road, Concord • Second Chance Fashion Show: We welcome anyone who wants to purchase a complete outfit from any one of our charity clothing stores to show at our meeting. We will have prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners. Welcome Rebecca Moffit,

assistant director of CVAN. • Guest speaker: Mandy Lawrence • Special Brunch Music: Libby Morrison • Complimentary nursery • For reservations (March 16 deadline) and information, contact Barbara at 704-786-2722 or barb1960@ windstream.net.

Sponsored by the Cabarrus Christian Women’s Connection, an affiliate of Stonecroft Ministries Good Morning Cabarrus March 20 • 7:45-9:00am Connect Christian Church 101 Davidson Highway, Concord • This fast-pasted networking and educational event will include monthly updates from the Chamber and EDC, the County and one of our five municipalities, and executives from successful local businesses who will discuss how they are addressing challenging issues for today’s businesses.

• Member registration JEff Little Trio March 20 • 8:00-10:00pm • $25 Davis Theatre 65 Union St. S., Concord • Jeff Little’s distinctive two-handed style, much influenced by the mountain flat-picked guitar tradition, is breathtaking in its speed, precision and clarity. He is joined by Steve Lewis, a two-time National Banjo Champion and MerleFest Guitar Champion, and Josh Scott, a highly sought-after bassist.

• 704-920-2753; www.cabarrusartscouncil.org Art Walk March 27 • FREE Historic Downtown Concord • Artists gather throughout downtown Concord at The Galleries and in participating shops, restaurants and private galleries.

• More than 100 artists participate.

Chamber Legislative Breakfast March 27 • 7:45-11:30am Hotel Concord 4 Union Street N., Concord • Join the Chamber for a frank discussion of the issues and legislation that affects your business on the docket for the session. Be informed and speak one-on-one with our legislators before they go to Raleigh.

• Registration: required. Danielle Sumrell: 704-782-4000; dsumrell@cabarrus.biz NHRA Four-Wide Nationals March 27-April 2 • $99 and Up zMax Dragway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • The NHRA’s top categories – Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle – break from conventional two-wide racing to go four-wide! Event will include Pro Stock Motorcycle.

• 704-455-3267; www.charlottemotorspeedway.com Annual Egg Drop March 28 • 11:00am Covenant Classical School 3200 Patrick Henry Drive, Concord • For children aged 1 year through 5th grade, and their parents • More than 10,000 eggs will be dropped from a helicopter.

• Bounce houses, door prizes, hot dog sale • Hosted by Connect Christian Church: www.connectchristianchurch.org SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY March 28 • 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. n

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At a Glance Antiques & Collectibles The Depot at Gibson Mill Page 2 325 McGill Avenue N.W., Concord, NC 28027 704-787-9351 www.depotgibsonmill.com

Automotive Sales Ben Mynatt Nissan Page 8 629 Jake Alexander Boulevard (I-85, Exit 75) Salisbury, NC 28147 (704) 633-7270 • (800) 264-6823 www.benmynattnissan.com

Automotive Spas/Maintenance Splash Auto Spa/Certec Automotive 2215 Roxie Street, Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-795-2426 • 800-264-6823 www.splashautospa.net www.certecautomotive.com

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Learning Rx Page 11 10030 Edison Square N.W., Concord, NC 28027 704-499-8888 • 719-550-8263 www.learningrx.com/charlotte-north

Churches New Hope Worship Center Page 16 452 BrookwoodAvenue N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-0155 www.newhopewc.org

Cleaning Services – Office Page 17

Cleaning Services – Residential The Maids Page 9 308 Church Street N., Concord, NC 28025 704-793-1982 www.themaidsofconcordnc.com

Construction Companies Liles Construction Company Inc. Page 2 325 McGill Ave. N.W., Suite 120, Concord, NC 28027 704-786-3450 • 704-784-3320 f www.lilesconstruction.com

Dentists Ferguson & Associates, DDS 244 LePhillip Court, Concord, NC 28025 704-786-8317 www.demandforced3.com/dentist/12865

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Dentists – Pediatric Concord Pediatric Dentistry Page 12 5641 Poplar Tent Road, Ste. 201 Concord, NC 28027 704-795-2300 • 704-795-2301 www.doclong.com

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Organic Grocery Stores

Battleground Games Page 19 112-6 Morris Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-454-7705

Peachtree Market Page 21 363 Church Street N., Suite 180, Concord, NC 28025 704-788-1423 peachtreemarketconcord@gmail.com

Kannapolis Cruise-In March 14: Downtown Kannapolis 704-932-3808 www.cabarrusevents.org

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Personal Injury Attorneys Personal Injury Attorney Network 800-807-7316

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Funeral Homes

Pharmacies

Hartsell Funeral Homes Page 24 460 Branchview Dr. N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-1161

Harrisburg Hometown Pharmacy Page 10 5006 Highway 49 S., Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-454-RX4U (7948) www.harrisburgpharmacy.com

13575 Broadway Avenue, Midland, NC 28107 704-888-5571 522 N. Second Street, Albemarle, NC 28001 704-983-1188 www.hartsellfh.com

Brain Training

Blu-J 51 Union Street S., Concord, NC 28025 704-589-3148

Entertainment/Hobbies

Wilkinson Funeral Home Page 11 100 Branchview Dr. N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-3168 www.wilkinsonfuneralhome.com

General Surgeons The Piedmont Surgical Clinic, PA Page 31 431 Copperfield Boulevard, Concord, NC 28025 704-786-1104 www.piedmontsurgical.com

Health/Fitness Cannon Memorial YMCA Page 27 Harrisburg Branch 4100 Main Street, Suite 200, Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-454-7800 Kannapolis Branch 101 YMCA Drive, Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-939-9622

Photographers 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 20 5029 West W.T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28269 800-840-2554 www.modernimpressions.com

Research & Education MURDOCK Study 147 West Avenue, Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-250-5861 www.murdock-study@duke.edu www.murdock-study.org

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North Carolina Research Campus Page 16 600 Laureate Way, Suite 101, Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-250-5436 www.ncresearchcampus.net

Testing & Research

West Cabarrus Branch 5325 Langford Avenue, Concord, NC 28027 704-795-9622 www.cannonymca.org

Spectrum Discovery Center 222 Oak Avenue, Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-250-1200 www.spectrumdiscoverycenter.com

Nonprofit Healthcare Assistance

Theatres – Live

Community Free Clinic Page 20 528A Lake Concord Road N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-782-0650 www.communityfreeclinic.org

Old Courthouse Theatre Page 18 49 Spring Street N.W., Concord, NC 28025 704-788-2405 www.oldcourthousetheatre.org

Office Space for Lease

Valet Dry Cleaning Services

The Old Creamery at Church and Peachtree Page 8 363 Church Street N., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-8888 www.harrismorrison.com

A Cleaner Delivery 704-641-0152 acleanerdelivery@gmail.com www.acleanerdelivery.com n

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