Cm may15web

MAY 2015

Flying to Florida: A Roller Coaster Weekend

LYNX:

Making Connections

The Kannapolis Train Station: Back on Track

2 Cabarrus Magazine n

May 2015 3 n

Word on the Street May 2015 Volume 15 n Issue 5 President Pam Tolen

Managing Editor/Art Direction Kim Cassell Advertising Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle Contributing Writers Kim Cassell Jason Huddle NC Research Campus Contributing Photographers Michael A. Anderson Photography Scott Cassell CATS Camilla Ferguson Jason and Kristy Huddle 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.

4 Cabarrus Magazine n

Rachel Fesko

Publisher Jason Huddle

One of my favorite things to do is travel. Maybe it’s the fact that, as a missionary kid, my family never spent too much time in one place for the first decade of my life. Maybe it’s the fact that I love seeing new places and experiencing different cultures. Whatever the reason, it’s a commonality I share with many people around the world.

Last year, Cabarrus Magazine featured all there is to do in and around Cabarrus County, but we’ve come to realize that this area is a destination, and the growth of various modes of transportation to get here is a testament to that.

With Allegiant Air now flying into and out of Concord Regional Airport, I was given the assignment of checking the airline out firsthand to “research” an article. (I know, but somebody’s got to do it!) We were able to book a flight that took us non-stop from Concord to sunny Orlando, Florida, for a fun-filled long weekend without emptying our wallets!

We’ll also update you on the construction of the LYNX light rail line that is making its way to the UNC Charlotte campus. It won’t be long before the public can park in uptown Charlotte and take a ride to the University area...or vice versa.

Speaking of trains, did you know that North Carolina has seen a resurgence in recent years of the high-speed rail system? Maybe instead of a road trip to see the museums in Raleigh, next time you could take the train out of Kannapolis.

We live in a wonderful region where the expansion of transportation options is coming to us. And, yes, it’s great to be able to travel, but, at the end of the day, there’s still no place like home.

Sincerely,

Jason Huddle

This Issue...

A Ticket to Ride 6

Flying to Florida: A Roller Coaster Weekend

11

Breaking Bread: Chef Ferguson Dishes

12

The Kannapolis Train Station: Back on Track

16

The LYNX Extension: Making Connections

22

Cabarrus Businesses: On the Go

25

Give Me Shelter: Cabarrus’ Adoptable Dogs

26

NCRC: New Approaches to Cancer Prevention

28

What’s Happening: May Calendar of Events

May 2015 5 n

By Jason Huddle

A Roller Coaster Weekend In 2013, Allegiant Air was introduced to Cabarrus County. Flying out of Concord Regional Airport, it offers low-cost flights to destinations in Florida: Orlando/Daytona and St. Petersburg/ Clearwater. And on the 8th of this month, Allegiant will fly to Ft. Lauderdale. What a coup – to have a commercial airline fly out of our local airport.

The objective of this article – to showcase the affordability, fun and convenience of taking a non-stop flight from Concord to Orlando for a long weekend – unfortunately, evolved into frustration. Up until about 10:55am on April 10, everything was going to plan. I remember thinking, “This will be great! When we get back, we’ll only be ten minutes from home and we parked for free!”

Allegiant Air graciously provided me with two round-trip tickets for the purpose of writing about my experience, but note that everything – from checked bags (and carry-ons) to in-flight snacks – is extra. For a quick weekend getaway on a short flight, however, it’s likely less luggage and fewer snacks would be needed.

Everyone was on the plane, and all the pre-flight safety speeches had been made. Just when we should have begun to taxi out to the runway, the entire plane went dark. There was no electricity, not even in the cockpit. What followed was several hours of miscommunication (or none at all) between the gate crew and the passengers, some of which were on a deadline to make other destinations.

It wasn’t the gate crew’s fault; the problem was that there doesn’t seem to be a contingency plan if something like this happens. I was lucky. I was able to communicate directly with my contact at Allegiant’s corporate office. While she didn’t have any more information than we did, I greatly appreciated her help.

Lesson 1: ALWAYS have a contingency plan when traveling. No matter what airline you’re using, realize that delays and cancellations happen. Know your options. " 6 Cabarrus Magazine n

Up, up and away with Orlando Balloon Rides

May 2015 7 n

Only by happenstance, I learned that Allegiant also flies out of Asheville, and there was a flight leaving that night at 7:30. Several of us knew that if we switched our reservations (no charge), we still had time to drive to Asheville and make that flight. Keep in mind, they had yet to cancel the Concord flight at that point. That happened 20 minutes after we left; I received a text.

“Unfortunately, we did not have aircraft or crew available to send to Concord and perform a rescue that day,” an Allegiant spokesperson later

explained. “We ultimately rescheduled the flight to the next day, as the crew at Concord were close to timing out for the day by the time the equipment to repair the aircraft arrived at the airport.”

All this juggling and a late departure meant we missed La Nouba – the Cirque du Soleil – Friday night. Thankfully, it was the only casualty of the weekend.

We found our accommodations in Orlando by researching discount websites such as Hotels.com and Hotwire.com. Through them, we

Disney attractions like Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life and Epcot await those visiting Orlando.

were able find a room normally valued at $250 per night for $96. We also booked our rental car through Priceline.com, which proved to be considerably cheaper than any other option we could find – by about 25 percent.

Other money-saving options include the Orlando “Eat and Play” card (eatandplaycard.com), which offers discounts to several area restaurants, accommodations and attractions for one small fee. You can also save gas and money by purchasing one-, three-, five-, seven- or 14-day tickets on the I Ride Trolley (www.iridetrolley.com).

This trolley ventures between many of the area highlights and attractions around town, including Sea World, but not Disney or Universal. You are free to get off and on as you please for the duration of your ticket.

Lesson 2: As long as you are not traveling during peak summer months, you can usually find numerous discounts in Orlando and other tourist-oriented cities, especially last-minute deals. Going during these times also means less crowded parks.

Our first day was spent at Walt Disney World. Your costs may vary here. We had a one-day park hopper ticket that allowed us to visit as many of the four Disney parks as we wanted during that day. These are valued at $330 each; however, if you want to visit just one park, you can go for about a third of that cost per ticket. We enjoyed a sampling of three of the four parks.

8 Cabarrus Magazine n

I recommend Kiliminjaro Safari and Expedition Everest in Animal Kingdom, the new Seven Dwarves Mine Coaster in Magic Kingdom, Soarin’ and the newly-revamped Test Track in Epcot, and Aerosmith’s Rockin’ Roller Coaster and the Tower of Terror in Disney’s Hollywood studios.

Disney has set the standard when it comes to family entertainment and that has not changed; the amount of construction both in and around the parks is evidence of that. Downtown Disney will soon be renamed Disney Springs, with a re-vamped look and feel. Besides the free shopping area onsite, there will be more parking, stores and nightlife.

New attractions on the horizon include an Avatar-themed land (with a new coaster) in Animal Kingdom, a new Frozen-themed ride in the Norway Pavilion (where the Maelstrom ride was located) and a rumored expansion at Hollywood Studios where the back lot tour was formerly located. To plan your visit or vacation to Disney, go to DisneyWorld.com.

On Sunday morning we awoke before the sun in order to fly high with the folks from Orlando Balloon Rides. In business for about 30 years, this company run a safe and fun ship.

They only fly once a day – at sunrise – when conditions are safest and most predictable. Whether or not we

Some Free Advice • There are no Allegiant aircraft in reserve at Concord Airport. Therefore, if your plane is unable to depart and repairs cannot be made, your flight will be cancelled. Be sure you know what your alternate flight options are in advance.

• It is always best, no matter what airline you choose, to allow yourself plenty of time for delays in traveling to your destination, especially if you are on a deadline.

• Allegiant Air is not responsible for any additional expenses incurred due to delays or cancellations, even if your flight is diverted to another city.

• Allegiant’s flight from Concord to Orlando lands at the Orlando-Sanford airport (SFB), not Orlando International (MCO). About 30 minutes away from downtown Orlando, you will need to book a rental car. Disney’s “Magical Express” does not service this airport.

• When flying from Orlando, the extra $5 for priority boarding is worth it in order to avoid the long lines. *Special thanks to Allegiant Air©, Disney© Parks, Orlando Balloon Rides, Sea World©, Orlando Eat and Play Card, I Ride Trolley and The Spa for the complimentary use of their services afforded to Cabarrus Magazine for the purposes of this article.

would go up that morning was under debate until the last minute because of weather conditions, a safety precaution appreciated by the guests.

General Manager Damien Mahoney was our pilot, a 15-year veteran from Ireland. He kept everyone laughing as he reacted to changing conditions

in the sky. “Every day is a new flight path,” he explained. Because balloons are at the mercy of the wind, flights can take you over different areas. I must say I never felt unsafe or as if the pilots were unsure about anything before, during or after our flight. This adventure should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Once in the air, the ride lasts about an hour; however, an early-morning safety briefing at the main office, loading into the vans, traveling out to the launch site, "

May 2015 9 n

Sea World’s Shamu, and The Spa near downtown

preparing the balloons for flight, actually flying in the balloon, and then packing up the balloons and loading the baskets back on the trailers and driving back to the home office takes about a half-day.

Costs per person range from $195 to $225 for adults and $99 to $109 per child, depending on the day you’d

10 Cabarrus Magazine n

like to fly. Discounts and coupons can be found fairly easily online.

If you think you’d like to fly, visit OrlandoBalloonRides.com.

Our next stop that day was Sea World. Single tickets for this popular marine park run $75 on weekdays and $85 on the weekends, although there are several promotions currently being offered that will allow you to get more for your money, including a two-day ticket for $99. Sea World parks are currently celebrating their 50th anniversary and are randomly giving free gifts to patrons just for visiting the park. These can range from free

apparel or food to free park tickets. For information on ticket prices and the park, visit SeaWorld.com.

Sea World is more about the shows and less about thrill rides, although they have added another roller coaster and other rides in recent years. The draw is and has always been, Shamu, the killer whale. The new show, One Ocean, demonstrates how we can help preserve our oceans and marine life. A new sea lion show opened last month, plus be sure to also catch the Blue Horizons dolphin show. Seeing all the Sea World shows and enjoying the rides can take two days.

After an evening spent dining and shopping at Downtown Disney, we were exhausted and ready for the trip home, but one more stop awaited us.

Lesson 3: Try not to plan too much for one day. Orlando traffic and other factors may keep you from doing everything you wish, so it’s best to prioritize and decide what you care about experiencing most. " continued on page 31

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!

Beef Sirloin in Peanut Sauce INGREDIENTS 2 Tbsp. cornstarch 3/4 cup water or chicken broth . Tbsp. peanut butter 3 4 Tbsp. soy sauce, divided evenly 1 1/2 lbs. beef sirloin, sliced thin 2 Tbsp. canola oil (olive oil burns too quickly)

1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips 1 onion, sliced 8 oz. baby bella mushrooms, sliced 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced 1/4 cup cashew halves Prepared brown or white rice

DIRECTIONS In a small bowl, combine cornstarch and water/chicken broth until smooth.

Stir in peanut butter and 2 tablespoons soy sauce; set aside.

In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry the beef and remaining soy sauce in oil until meat is desired temperature or no longer pink; remove and keep warm. Add the peppers, onions, scallions and mushrooms, stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender and onions are translucent.

Stir cornstarch mixture and add to the pan. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 1 minute or until thickened and glossy. Return beef mixture to the pan, stir in cashews. Remove from pan immediately. Spoon over prepared rice. Serves 4-6.

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

May 2015 11 n

The Piedmont runs between Charlotte and Raleigh twice daily, making stops at the Kannapolis Train Station.

12 Cabarrus Magazine n

By Kim Cassell

Back on Track The railroad will be forever linked to this country’s history, first as a means to reach the unrealized west, then as a luxurious mode of travel.

In the U.S., the first railroad tracks were laid in the east in the first half of the 19th century. In 1869, the Central Pacific Railroad was completed in the west.

This milestone meant people and freight could be transported cross-country.

Shortly thereafter – from the 1880s to 1920s – the American railroad experienced its “Golden Age.” Eventually, however, car and plane transportation dominated and rail travel hit bottom in the 1960s and ‘70s.

Then, in 1970, the U.S. Congress introduced Amtrak. Strictly as passenger rail, Amtrak took the place of private railroad companies that had operated in the red for years.

“Amtrak is a federally-chartered corporation, with the federal government as majority stockholder. The board is appointed by the president of the United States and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, and Amtrak is operated as a for-profit company, rather than a public authority,” according to Amtrak.com.

While Kannapolis relied heavily on the railroad for its textile industry, both with passengers and freight, “more than 85 percent of North Carolina’s railroad stations have been demolished since World War II due to the decline of passenger rail traffic,” according to highpointnc.gov.

The 1980s saw state government support across the board for passenger rail and, in 1990, the Highway Trust Fund financially aided getting The Carolinian "

The Kannapolis Train Station is located on S. Main Street, near the NCRC.

May 2015 13 n

The old Southern Railway Station in Kannapolis

rolling from Charlotte to Raleigh, and on to New York City. The Piedmont followed five years later, offering a route that covered Raleigh to Charlotte and back; The Piedmont is state-owned while The Carolinian is state-financed.

The passing of the Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) in the 1990s meant restoration and new construction for train stations all over the state, and compliance with the Americans for Disability (ADA) regulations. In 1998, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) designated the stretch of tracks between Washington, D.C., and Charlotte as a high-speed rail corridor.

These advancements were followed in 2010 by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), an $8-billion fund for the revitalization of high-speed rail. North Carolina was named one of the recipient states, which meant improvements for the Kannapolis stop. The expanse between Charlotte and Raleigh alone was earmarked for $520 million; a Kannapolis platform canopy installed in 2013 to protect riders from the elements came from this fund as well.

“This new federal investment represents a major leap forward in making high-speed rail a reality in North Carolina. According to state and

Buy One Get One Free Reserved-Level Ticket Valid for any Intimidators home game in May and June 2015.

Redeem at CMC-NorthEast Stadium Box Office on game day.

14 Cabarrus Magazine n

federal officials, the project is expected to create or maintain 4,800 jobs in the state’s private sector,” kannapolisnc.gov said at the time.

Already in place when these improvements were made was a new Kannapolis station. Located at 120 South Main Street, it opened in December 2004. The NCDOT Rail Division provided 90 percent of the funding for the $3.1-million facility while the City of Kannapolis contributed $105,000; Cabarrus County, $60,000; and the Cannon Foundation, $75,000.

In 2014, 18,292 passengers took the train from Kannapolis to their destination. This amounted to $643,256 in station revenue. The 2015 schedule sees The Piedmont running two trains daily between Raleigh and Charlotte at a cost of $35 to $47 each way and with a travel time of three hours and 11 minutes. The Carolinian heads from Charlotte to New York each morning, and New York to Charlotte each evening; Wi-Fi® is available on The Carolinian. Amtrak trains typically travel at speeds of about 100m.p.h.

With the City of Kannapolis purchasing 46 acres of downtown property, the goal is a vibrant mixed use of business, retail and residential development. This could well enhance the need for passenger rail travel. The

North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) plays into that as well.

The NCRC is already home to researchers from Duke University, NC A&T, NC Central University, NC State and UNC Chapel Hill, among others.

High-speed rail provides a quicker and easier commute. “Employees and visitors to the North Carolina Research Campus (NCRC) will be the big beneficiaries of high-speed rail due to the strong education and research link between the Raleigh-DurhamChapel Hill (area) and Kannapolis,” kannapolisnc.gov says.

Amtrak brought in about $2.87 billion in revenue in fiscal year 2012, but had nearly $4.04 billion in expenses. In fiscal year (FY) 2013, the company, “covered 89 percent of operating costs with ticket sales and other revenue,” according to Amtrak. com. “Amtrak receives funding from 18 states under 19 operating agreements for financial support of 29 shortdistance routes (less than 750 miles).

“Fueled by Amtrak’s valued partnership with its state partners, state-supported routes posted their best-year-ever ridership in FY ‘13 with 15.4 million passengers. States that provide funding and the routes on which some or all service is statesupported during FY 2013: North Carolina – Carolinian (CharlotteWashington) and Piedmont service (Raleigh-Charlotte).”

The U.S. High Speed Rail Association cites “faster, more efficient mobility, enormous energy savings and reduced environmental damage” as reasons to support and utilize rail travel. If lines expand as hoped – possibly linking the U.S. to Mexico – thousands, if not millions, of jobs will become available.

Road traffic (and accidents) will be reduced, as will gas emissions and the consumption of oil.

So, the next time you plan a trip to our state capital or beyond, consider enjoying the scenery as a passenger on a train. For more information, visit www.ncbytrain.org n

May 2015 15 n

The LYNX Blue Line Extension’s retaining walls include panels of stamped concrete in a floral motif.

16 Cabarrus Magazine n

By Kim Cassell

Making Connections When the LYNX light rail system began operating in 2007, there were a number of Doubting Thomases that felt the Charlotte area wasn’t ready, predicting the venture would not succeed.

The doubters were quickly silenced. The original route – the Blue Line, with 15 stations – takes passengers from Pineville at I-485 to the Charlotte Area Transit Station (CATS) in uptown. Ridership surpassed projections from the start, and second quarter 2014 figures showed that some 16,500 commuters ride the light rail to their destinations each day.

LYNX was originally part of the 2025 Integrated Transit/Land-Use Plan, which utilizes rapid transit, buses and streetcars to transport citizens to shopping, activities and nightlife. And, as far back as 1984, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning Commission included a light rail line to UNC Charlotte in its 2005 Vision Plan. It never got to the study phase, though, because city council would not back Charlotte Mayor Harvey Gantt.

Additional LYNX lines were again studied in 1988, during Sue Myrick’s tenure as mayor. With the CATS station as the nucleus, routes would extend to key areas in the Charlotte-Metro region: the aforementioned UNC Charlotte; Fort Mill/ Rock Hill; and Matthews/Monroe.

Years went by with construction costs continuing to rise, and support and funding remaining stagnant. These factors delayed the start of the LYNX project until, finally, in 1998, a half-cent sales tax was voter approved in CharlotteMecklenburg. That meant Charlotte could equal the funding provided by Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grants and financing could be obtained. "

May 2015 17 n

Now some exciting changes are taking place close to home. In 2011, the FTA awarded CATS a Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery III (TIGER III) grant in the amount of $18 million. And in July of 2013, the Blue Line Capacity Expansion Project – Blue Line Extension or BLE for short – groundbreaking was held.

Sayra H. Brynn is public and community relations specialist for CATS. She says, “The Blue Line Extension (Northeast Corridor) is one of the five corridors identified for rapid transit improvements in the 2025 Transit/Land-Use Plan that was created in 1998. In 2002 and 2006, the Metropolitan Transit Commission adopted the 2030 Transit System Plan, which included the LYNX Blue Line Extension light rail project in the northeast corridor.”

Still under construction, the Blue Line Extension is a 9.4-mile stretch that will take passengers from uptown to UNC Charlotte and offer 11 stations.

However, due to the recession, the original plan of bringing the extension to I-485 and Highway 29, along with two more stations, was nixed. So, instead of a $1.12-billion price tag estimated in 2010, the cost was lowered to $977 million and will end at the university campus.

The goal for this extension – besides more efficiently taking people where they want to go – is to alleviate some of the traffic congestion, especially on I-85. Stations will be located in key locations: Parkwood Avenue, 25th Street, in NoDa at 36th and Davidson streets; Sugar Creek Road and North Davidson; Old Concord Road; Tom Hunter Road; University City Boulevard; McCullough; the J.W. Clay Building; and UNC Charlotte.

“Station areas around the BLE are expected to see increased growth and development,” Brynn says. “The City of Charlotte has adopted Station Area Plans to guide the future growth.

Transit-oriented development policies call for more walkable, focused growth 18 Cabarrus Magazine n

The University City LYNX Station is one of the largest on the Blue Line Extension.

in the transit corridors. Cabarrus County residents will have the option to use a park and ride location for the BLE or to use connecting bus service.

Final planning for the route changes for bus services to connect into the rail stations will be starting in the next year, including public review and comment opportunities.”

This LYNX extension is no small feat.

The logistics of creating an effective route isn’t lost on those familiar with

the area. This includes relocating underground utilities like water and sewer mains. Existing railroad line rights-of-way are being used as available, such as the Norfolk Southern line near Parkwood Avenue. Other property has been purchased, like a scrap yard near Sugar Creek Road and private land from some not-so-happy owners. Bridges and overpasses are being constructed to deal with existing thoroughfares like Eastway Drive,

North Tryon near the I-85 connector and W.T. Harris Boulevard.

“At the completion of the project, North Tryon Street will have light rail in the median from Old Concord Road to UNC Charlotte (Institute Circle).

North Tryon Street is being widened out with the project to allow for light rail in the median, and improvements will include bike lanes, sidewalks and planting strips with street trees,” Brynn adds. "

May 2015 19 n

The 36th Street LYNX bridge in NoDa

Completion of the extension was slated for 2016, but factors like the utility relocation have moved that back to 2017. “There are construction crews working throughout the corridor: Segment A (from uptown to Old Concord Road) and Segments B/C (from Old Concord Road to UNC Charlotte),” Brynn explains. “Also, parking garage construction has started on the two of the largest parking garages at J.W. Clay Parking Garage and University City Boulevard Parking Garage.”

The economic development that’s anticipated along this line is predicted to bring an average of 24,500 weekday LYNX passengers by 2035. These riders will board 22 new rail cars (for a total of 42 in the fleet) and use four park and ride stations that will accommodate some 3,000 parked cars. If someone were to ride the LYNX all the way from Pineville to UNC Charlotte, the total travel time would be 47 minutes.

The type of development envisioned

$19.99 Manager’s Car Wash Special With this coupon

Regularly $24.99

Includes exterior wash & dry, interior vacuum/dusting, rain guard protectant, underbody wash, inside/outside window cleaning, air freshener, tire dressing.

Not valid with any other offers. Expires 6/15/15.

20 Cabarrus Magazine n

for this corridor is mixed-use and directly linked to the stations. For example, in NoDa, a transit-oriented development (TOD) study projects 25,000 multi-family units, 9 million square feet of office space and 2.3 million square feet of retail space will be constructed in the vicinity of its station by 2030. And the Rocky River Station envisions “transit-supportive development that focuses on creating compact neighborhoods with housing, jobs, shopping, community services

and recreational opportunities, all within easy walking distance of a transit station,” according to CATS. When asked what ridership demographic CATS sees for the Blue Line Extension, Brynn says, “People traveling to work – major employers include Center City employers, UNC Charlotte, Carolinas Medical Center Hospital-University, University City employers; students traveling to UNC Charlotte main campus or to UNC Charlotte uptown campus; people traveling for shopping, restaurants and other non-work trips (eg. NoDa and University City destinations); and people going to special events downtown as well as at UNC Charlotte.”

Those of us in Cabarrus County can’t help but wonder when LYNX will reach such hotspots as Charlotte Motor Speedway and the Concord Mills corridor. “There have been informal discussions of expanding light rail into Cabarrus County at some time in the future. No timeframe for this has been identified,” Brynn says.

Proponents of that goal, and members of the board of the Metropolitan Transit Commission, are Concord Mayor Scott Padgett and City of Concord Councilmember David Phillips.

Funding would be a key component to adding light rail to Cabarrus County’s landscape. “The current LYNX system is funded by federal and state grants and local funds,” Brynn explains. “The local funding comes from a half-cent sales tax for transit in Mecklenburg County. Funding for extensions into surrounding counties would need to be identified.”

In the meantime, trains on the Blue Line Extension will operate from 5:00am to 1:00am, seven days a week, stopping at stations every ten minutes during rush hour and every 15 minutes otherwise. CATS bus fares and LYNX fares are the same, currently $2.20 per adult. n

May 2015 21 n

HBN Holds Fundraising Golf Tournament The Harrisburg Business Network (HBN) is holding its 6th annual Charity Golf Tournament on May 15. Sponsored by CYA Plumbing, the tournament will be held at Olde Sycamore Golf Plantation in Charlotte with proceeds benefitting the Jackson Laskowski Keep HOPE Alive Fund.

Eight-year-old Jackson, who lives in Harrisburg with his family, has been fighting cancer since 2010. While celebrating periods of remission, Jackson has gone through extensive rounds of chemo and radiation.

The Keep HOPE Alive Fund was created to help offset the medical bills the Laskowski family faced. It has since expanded to help other families in their personal battles against cancer and the services not covered by insurance: deductibles, prescriptions, living expenses, etc.

To contribute raffle or door prize items, or for more information, contact Maggie Laskowski at 704-6513405 or mlaskowski1@ymail.com.

22 Cabarrus Magazine n

On the Go Concord Auto Body Recognized and Certified Concord Auto Body is now part of an exclusive group of best-in-class collision repair businesses located across the United States, certified by Assured Performance – a non-profit consumer advocacy organization – and officially recognized by Chrysler, Nissan, GM and Enterprise.

These Certified Collision Care Providers have passed a rigorous certification process that inspects and audits the business to ensure they have the required tools, equipment, technical training, facilities and customer satisfaction services.

“Concord Auto Body is a collision care provider that has made the investment to meet strict auto manufacturer requirements to become certified," Scott Biggs, founder and CEO of Assured Performance, says. “They represent the standard by which all others are measured.”

Cannon School Student Receives Prestigious Scholarship Cannon School senior Jack Amoroso has earned the Morehead-Cain scholarship to the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill. The four-year scholarship provides full tuition, fees, housing, meals, books, a laptop and supplies.

Jack has been at Cannon School since 2012, when his family moved to Charlotte from Maine. He won the Ginger R. Holloway Interdisciplinary Research Paper Award in 2014, is president of the Model United Nations, and is a member of the math, history, French and English honor societies.

Jack is the son of Michele and Greg Amoroso of Charlotte.

Owner of Hwy 55 Co-authors New Book Kenny Moore is founder and president of Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries, formerly known as Andy’s. He’s also the author of a new book: Behind the Drive: A Story of Passion, Dreams, Demons and Hwy 55, the World’s Next Favorite Burger Joint.

The restaurant is expanding at a historic rate, having sold rights to 1,000 franchise locations around the world in just the last two years, but Moore has been fighting banks, bad franchisees and himself to keep from losing everything.

So, collaborating with co-author, Brandon Sneed, Moore said he agreed to the project because he wanted to share his story and inspire people to believe in the American Dream again, although it may look slightly different than what they’ve been taught.

“I remember seeing a presidential campaign commercial in 1984 that said, ‘It’s morning again in America,’ and being inspired by it,” Moore says. “I believed that I could do or be whatever I wanted. And I just don’t hear that anymore. I don’t hear our leaders talking about, ‘Go get the American Dream.’ That’s the sad part.

The rhetoric you often hear from politicians and you get from the media now, it’s almost like that American Dream is dead. And it’s not.”

Behind the Drive is available on amazon.com and in bookstores.

For more information, visit www.behindthedrive.com.

Cabarrus CVB Welcomes Beasley to Destination Services The Cabarrus County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) welcomes Stephanie Beasley as destination services coordinator. In this role, Beasley works closely with the destination services manager to support the operational and hospitality needs of visiting clients requiring services from the Cabarrus County CVB and our local community partners.

Beasley joined the Cabarrus County CVB in October 2014 as a travel counselor in the Visitor Information Center. Prior to becoming part of the Visitor Services team, she joined her sister in a business venture with EvanGrace Events and Bridal in downtown Concord, working with up to 118 events and clients per year.

Beasley graduated from Western Carolina University in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration for entrepreneurship, with a concentration in hospitality and management.

Ritchie Hill Celebrates Grand Opening Ritchie Hill, located at 391 Union Street S. in Concord, celebrated the completion of construction and the opening of its doors in March. Joining the family, dignitaries and guests were Concord Mayor Scott Padgett and Cabarrus Regional Chamber CEO Patrick Coughlin. Together, they flanked Ritchie Hill CEO Keith Alm as he cut the ribbon.

The grand opening also included a Chamber CEO Patrick Coughlin and Concord Mayor Scott Padget join the Ritchie family, staff and guests tour of the new event facility, which at the grand opening of Ritchie Hill. has been upfitted to host wedding receptions, corporate functions, family reunions, clubs, etc., and a catered dinner on the expansive covered front porch that’s been upgraded with inset lighting and stereo speakers.

The Queen Victoria home includes a music room, living room, library, dining room and restrooms downstairs, as well as a catering kitchen. Upstairs provides rooms for the bride, her bridesmaids, a groom’s lounge and a private restroom.

If you’d like to book an event or get more information, contact Jessica Eudy, director of operations, at 704-975-5088 or Jessica@ritchiehill.com. "

May 2015 23 n

Haulers on Union to Roll Through Downtown Concord Haulers on Union will take place May 14, starting with a Fan Fest from 1:004:00pm at Ride Now (254 Concord Parkway S.), the site of the hauler parade staging. Fans can stop by for free t-shirts, autographs, music, food trucks and more. At the end of the festival, fans will be invited to continue the celebration in downtown Concord. At 5:00, local heroes will be recognized in a Vietnam Veterans 50th Anniversary Commemorative Program. Around 5:45, the haulers

will make their appearance as they parade down Union Street en route to Charlotte Motor Speedway. As the last truck exits downtown, fans will be serenaded with the sounds of Route 66. Come out and welcome the teams to Charlotte while honoring our local veterans!

This event is brought to you by the City of Concord, Cabarrus County and the Cabarrus County CVB as part of the 600 Festival Association’s May event lineup.

For more information, visit www.600festival.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter @600festival and Instagram @600festival #HaulersonUnion.

Sticky Fingers Ribhouse and Social Music App Rockbot Invite Customers to “Choose The Blues” Sticky Fingers Ribhouse, on Concord Mills Boulevard in Concord, announces a partnership with Rockbot, a social music service that allows their restaurants’ customers to pick the music playing at Sticky Fingers locations right from their smartphones.

All it takes is a free download of the Rockbot mobile app and Sticky Fingers customers are well on their way to personalizing their dining experience by choosing their own music. Customers may choose from both classic and newer songs on a curated playlist of literally hundreds of songs with a heavy influence of blues, soul and bluesy rock that makes up the distinctive “Sticky Sound.”

By hand-selecting the songs available to their guests, the restaurant group is able to provide great music that is appropriate for casual dining and also block songs with explicit lyrics in keeping with the restaurant’s family-friendly appeal.

S&D Coffee & Tea Names Ging Vice Chairperson of World Coffee Research Tracy Ging, vice-president of sustainability and strategic initiatives for S&D Coffee & Tea, has been named vice-chairperson of World Coffee Research (WCR), a non-profit, collaborative research and development program of the global coffee industry. Ging has been active in WCR from its inception, helping to shape it into the fully operational global research institute it is today.

Ging will serve a three-year term on the organization’s executive committee, initially as vice-chairperson. She previously served on the WCR board of directors, in addition to supporting its communication strategy and fundraising initiatives.

WCR works to develop coffee varieties, genetic resources and accompanying technologies, and disseminating them strategically and collaboratively in producing countries to alleviate current and future constraints to the supply chain of fine Arabica coffees.

“The critical, ground-breaking work done by WCR could not be completed or funded by a single company,” Ging says. “It is a true collaboration focused on positively impacting the supply chain and providing long-term value to our industry.” n

Get the Word Out! Contact Kimberly Brouillette for advertising opportunities.

704-782-2353

Support our advertisers and you support Cabarrus Magazine!

24 Cabarrus Magazine n

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

The saying goes, “People that say money can’t buy you happiness have never paid an adoption fee.” These are the faces of the abandoned, neglected and abused, and they’re looking for that second chance. If you’re looking for a furry family member, please consider pet adoption.

Petey is a handsome Pit Bull that is three years old and weighs a strong 64 pounds. This good-natured guy likes people, loves children, but is picky about his doggy friends. Petey is up-todate on his vaccines, is microchipped and neutered. Please come meet him at the Cabarrus County Animal Shelter off Highway 49 today!

Humane Society of Concord & Greater Cabarrus County 244 Betsy Carpenter Place, Concord Just south of Highway 601, off Highway 49 and General Services Drive www.cabarrushumanesociety.org

Clara is a beautiful German Shepherd mix, about two years old.

She is up-to-date on vaccines, spayed, microchipped, house-trained and crate-trained. Clara is very friendly with people but would do best in a home that does not have any small dogs. She loves to play, has a lot of energy and would make a great pet for an active family or for someone who runs or jogs. We know the pefect forever family is out there for Clara!

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

May 2015 25 n

Contributed by the N.C. Research Campus

NCRC Scientists Find New Approaches to Cancer Prevention Cancer is a complex process that occurs over numerous years. Believe it or not, that’s good news because that gives scientists more opportunities to find ways to prevent the disease and stop its progression at earlier stages.

Nutritional Perspective Polyphenols, health-promoting compounds in plants, and gut microbiota may be a starting point.

With a new grant from the National Institutes of Health, Shengmin Sang, PhD, with the NCA&T Center for Excellence in Post-Harvest Technologies at the NC Research Campus (NCRC) in Kannapolis, is studying how tea polyphenols, which are health-promoting compounds in plants, are metabolized by gut microbiota and develop properties that can fight colitis-associated colon cancer and other diseases.

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the 26 Cabarrus Magazine n

Shengmin Sang

United States. Research already links consumption of tea to the reduction of heart disease, obesity, diabetes and some cancers, but just how tea is transformed during digestion into a health-promoting food is not fully understood.

“The mystery is that black tea polyphenols have poor systematic bioavailability,” Sang explains.

“However, there are in vivo studies that found that black tea has beneficial health effects. So I am interested in figuring out how these compounds that are not bioavailable are still bioactive in the human body.”

Scientists with the UNC Nutrition Research Institute are also looking at cancer from a nutritional perspective, studying the effects of the vitamin folate and diet-gene interaction in terms of both prevention and treatment.

Breast Cancer Research TinChung Leung, PhD, with NC Central University’s (NCCU) Nutrition Research Program, breeds zebrafish as a research model to help him answer some of the most fundamental questions about cancer: how tumors grow and metastasize, and how they hijack the human immune system in the process.

Collaborating with other NCCU scientists, the zebrafish model was

TinChung Leung

used to find a gene variation that could be a potential therapeutic target for triple negative breast cancer. Triple negative breast cancer is diagnosed in one out of ten cases, and does not respond to common cancer therapies.

“People don’t know exactly what this genetic variation does,” Leung says, “but they know that it is predominantly in African Americans.

So our research is important to find out how the genetic variation influences the outcome of breast cancer. The process is visible and more easily studied in the zebrafish model.”

NCCU’s Xiaohe Yang, MD, PhD, took another approach to cancer prevention. He studied the effect of the diabetes drug Metformin on tumorinitiating cancer cells and identified a potential mechanism for preventing HER2/neu producing breast cancer.

The American Cancer Society reports that up to 30 percent of all breast cancer patients are HER2/neu positive.

Treatments are available, but there is not an effective means of prevention.

“This finding will facilitate the development of novel strategies for breast cancer prevention,” Yang says.

Visit www.ncresearchcampus.net to learn more or find the campus on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or YouTube. n

Xiaohe Yang

May 2015 27 n

What’s Happening Celebrate Cabarrus May 1 • 6:30pm-1:59pm Embassy Suites Charlotte-Concord 5400 John Q. Hammons Drive N.W., Concord • The Chamber will partner with Cabarrus Economic Development and the Convention & Visitors Bureau to host a night of celebration and fun, recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations in our community in areas of both tourism and business.

• VIP Reception for sponsors followed by the main event.

• Chemin Duffey: 704-260-8110; coordinator@cabarrus.biz Mac Arnold and Plate Full O’ Blues May 1 • 8:00-10:00pm • $26 Davis Theatre 65 Union St. S., Concord • Mac Arnold’s first band had James Brown on piano. He followed that up by recording with Muddy Waters, Otis Spann and John Lee Hooker. Now, by popular demand, the blues legend and his band are back.

• 704-920-2753; www.cabarrusartscouncil.org Movies in the Park May 1 • FREE Harrisburg Park 191 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg • A family-friendly event hosted by Venture Church. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets so you can stretch out, relax and enjoy the feature presentation, which will begin at sunset. Movies to be shown are TBD. • www.harrisburgnc.org

28 Cabarrus Magazine n

The Robert F. Phifer Art Collection May 1, 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, 26-29 6:00-9:00pm Concord Museum 65 Union Street S., Concord • On loan from the NC Museum of Art • Mr. Phifer (1849-1928) was a prosperous planter, cotton buyer and the first benefactor of the NC Museum of Art. This exhibition includes 19th and early 20th century paintings that were last on public display in 1973.

• www.hisotriccabarrus.com Carolina Rebellion May 2-3 Rock City Campgrounds 7301 Bruton Smith Boulevard, Concord • Two days of live rock music on three stages • Food/drink vendors, band merchandise • 704-455-3200 Piedmont Farmers Market May 2, 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 518 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 RELAY FOR LIFE OF CABARRUS COUNTY May 2 • 11:00am Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 4751 Highway 49 N., Concord • Fundraising event to end cancer. It unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all.

• www.relay.acsevents.org

Rotary Square Farmers Market May 2, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30 120 Union St. S., Concord • Fresh local fruits and vegetables, freerange eggs, antibiotic- and hormonefree beef, chicken and pork • 704-425-5559; www.piedmont-farmersmarket.com Spring Into Arts Festival May 2 • 10:00am-4:00pm • FREE Union St., historic downtown Concord • A family fun-filled day with artisans, children’s activities, juried art show, street performers and much more!

• 704-784-4208; www.concorddowntown.com HARRISBURG FARMERS MARKET May 4, 11, 18, 25 • 3:00-6:00pm 6960 Robinson Church Road, Harrisburg • Fresh local produce, free-range eggs, honey, hormone- and antibiotic-free beef, chicken and pork • 704-425-5559; www.piedmont-farmersmarket.com Thursdays on Main May 7, 14, 41, 28 • 11:30am-1:00pm Veterans Park 119 North Main Street, Kannapolis • Free performances by various musicians, ranging from bluegrass to classical to country and rock music.

Held under the oak trees, lunch will be available or attendees can bring their own.

• 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov

JIGGY WITH THE PIGGY May 8-9 113 West 1st Street, Kannapolis • Live musical entertainment, 5K, car cruise-in, movies on the campus (Cars: PG), arts & craft vendors, food vendors, People’s Choice wings and pork tasting, BBQ competition • 704-932-3808; www.jiggywiththepiggy.com Kannapolis Arts Showcase May 8 • 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.

• mknox@modernfilminc.com; www.kannapolisarts.com 4th Annual BrickMagic LEGO Festival May 9-10 • 10:00am-5:00pm Embassy Suites Charlotte/Concord • Custom LEGO creations, build in the free build room, learn new building techniques and get hands-on experience with Mindstorms robots, view animated LEGO films non-stop in our theater, enter the Cool Car Building Contest and win prizes, and shop for hard-to-find LEGO parts and sets.

• 919-449-0344; www.brickmagic.org Wings of Eagles Ranch 16th Annual blue ribbon rider Horse Show & Fundraiser May 9 • 9:00am-5:00pm Wings of Eagles Ranch 4800 Faith Trails, Concord • Horse show presentations by our riders • Silent auction • Lunch • 704-784-3147; www.wingsofeaglesranch.org chamber Business After Hours May 12 • 5:30-7:00pm M/I Homes: Blume Development Harrisburg • Members are FREE; non-members are welcome three times per year: first visit is free, second and third visits are $10.

• Chemin Duffey: 704-260-8110

HAULERS ON UNION May 14 • 5:00pm Union Street, Downtown Concord • A parade featuring haulers of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams enroute to Charlotte Motor Speedway for the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race – arrival time around 5:45.

• 704-455-5555; www.600festival.com Friends of Midland Library Book Sale May 16 • 8:00am-12 noon Bethel Elementary School 2427 Midland Road, Midland • Mary Ann: 704-888-0977; mae1049@aol.com NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race May 16 Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • The sparks will fly in this checkers or wreckers non-points event with $1 million on the line.

• 704-455-3200; 1-800-455-3267; www.charlottemotorspeedway.com Cabarrus Christian Women’s Connection May 21 • 9:30am • $15 Cabarrus Country Club 3247 Weddington Road, Concord • Welcome Sherry Peele, founder and executive director of 501c3, Joyful Hearts. JoyProm is a full-scale prom for individuals 16 and older with intellectual and/or physical disabilities.

• Guest speaker: Janis Price, member of National Board of Directors for Stonecroft Ministries • Special Brunch Music: Libby Morrison • Complimentary nursery • For reservations (May 18 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 Union Street Live!

May 21 • 6:00-9:00pm • FREE Union Street, Downtown Concord • Outdoor summer concert series featuring regionally recognized musical entertainment in a family-oriented environment, plus a block party!

• Featuring The Tams • www.concorddowntown.com

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY May 23 • 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.

Coca-Cola 600 May 24 Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • The stars of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series do battle in the longest race of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

• 704-455-3200; 1-800-455-3267; www.charlottemotorspeedway.com Movies in the Park May 29 • 8:30-10:30pm • FREE Village Park 700 West C Street, Kannapolis • Showing Big Hero 6 (PG) • Music and entertainment before the movie. Movie starts at dusk.

• 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov The Color Run Charlotte May 30 • 8:00am-12:00pm Charlotte Motor Speedway 6570 Bruton Smith Blvd., Concord • New course elements this year, including a SHINE ZONE! • 248-470-9485; www. thecolorrun.com Kaleidoscope Cultural Arts Festival May 30 • 12:00-4:00pm • FREE West Avenue, Downtown Kannapolis • Dancers, musicians, painters, authors, pottery makers, craft makers, poets, clowns, jugglers, artists and more in a fun, family-friendly street festival • 828-231-5037; www.facebook.com STories Under the Stars May 30 • 7:00-8:00pm • FREE Kannapolis Branch Library • Featuring Blue Moon Puppets • Join us for this unique literary performing arts event. Programs are geared toward families with children of all ages.

• 704-920-4343; www.kannapolisnc.gov n

May 2015 29 n

At a Glance

Automotive Sales

Ben Mynatt Family of Dealerships Page 21 281-289 Concord Parkway S., Concord, NC 28027 (704) 786-2151 (Cadillac) • (704) 788-2121 (GMC) www.benmynatt.com

Automotive Spas/Maintenance

Splash Auto Spa/Certec Automotive Page 20 2215 Roxie Street, Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-795-2426 • 800-264-6823 www.splashautospa.net www.certecautomotive.com

Business Coaching

CVC Coaching Page 31 184 Academy Avenue, Concord, NC 28025 704-425-0217 jerry@cvccoaching.com • www.cvccoaching.com

Business Development

Concord Downtown Development Corporation Page 21 30 Cabarrus Avenue W., Concord, NC 28025 704-784-4208 • 704-784-2421 (f) www.concorddowntown.com

Churches

New Hope Worship Center Page 18 452 BrookwoodAvenue N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-0155 www.newhopewc.org

Cleaning Services – Office

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

Page 20

Day Care

New Life Kids Care Page 31 4160 Zion Church Road, Concord, NC 28025 704-793-9055 • 704-793-4075 (f) www.nlcjc.org

Dentists

Ferguson & Associates, DDS Page 9 244 LePhillip Court, Concord, NC 28025 704-786-8317 www.demandforced3.com/dentist/12865 Zsambeky, Chaney & Associates, P.A. Page 3 220 Branchview Drive S.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-782-2214 5000 Highway 49 S., Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-455-3333 www.mzdds.com

Economic Development

Cabarrus Economic Development Page 32 3003 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Suite 2 Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-260-8107 www.cabarruseconomicdevelopment.com

Entertainment/Hobbies

Battleground Games Page 23 112-6 Morris Drive, Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-454-7705 Kannapolis Cruise-In May 8 at Jiggy With The Piggy 704-932-3808 www.cabarrusevents.org

30 Cabarrus Magazine n

Page 3

Funeral Homes

Hartsell Funeral Homes Page 9 460 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 24 100 Branchview Drive N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-3168 www.wilkinsonfuneralhome.com

General Surgeons

The Piedmont Surgical Clinic, PA Page 3 431 Copperfield Boulevard, Concord, NC 28025 704-786-1104 www.piedmontsurgical.com

Health/Fitness

Cannon Memorial YMCA Page 10 Harrisburg Branch 4100 Main Street, Ste. 200, Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-454-7800 Kannapolis Branch 101 YMCA Drive, Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-939-9622 West Cabarrus Branch 5325 Langford Avenue, Concord, NC 28027 704-795-9622 www.cannonymca.org

Hotels

Hilton Garden Inn Page 15 7831 Gateway Lane N.W., Concord, NC 28027 704-979-2900 • 704-979-2901 fax www.charlotteconcordhgi.com Wingate by Wyndham Page 15 7841 Gateway Lane N.W., Concord, NC 28027 704-979-1300 • 704-979-1301 fax www.wingateinnconcord.com

Meat Markets

The Stock Market Page 2 796 Concord Parkway N., Concord, NC 28027 704-787-9015 www.stockmarketnc.com

Office Space for Lease

Synergy Office Suites Page 19 The Old Creamery at Church and Peachtree 363 Church Street N., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-8888 www.harrismorrison.com

Organic Grocery Stores

Peachtree Market Page 8 363 Church Street N., Ste. 180, Concord, NC 28025 704-788-1423 peachtreemarketconcord@gmail.com

Outdoor Living Area Supplier

IBD Outdoor Rooms Page 31 184 Academy Avenue, Concord, NC 28025 704-960-4530 sheryl@ibdodr.com • www.ibdodr.com

Pharmacies

Harrisburg Hometown Pharmacy Page 8 5006 Highway 49 S., Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-454-RX4U (7948) www.harrisburgpharmacy.com

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

Page 22

Print & Technology Services

Modern Impressions Page 27 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

Page 14

Racing Collectibles/Model Trains

Lionel Racing/Lionel Page 15 6301 Performance Drive, Concord, NC 28027 704-454-4162 www.lionelracing.com • www.lionel.com

Research & Education

North Carolina Research Campus Page 18 600 Laureate Way, Ste. 101, Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-250-5436 www.ncresearchcampus.net

Restaurants/Catering

The Smoke Pit Page 2 796 Concord Parkway N., Concord, NC 28027 704-786-9015 • 704-795-7573 www.thesmokepitnc.com

Testing & Research

Spectrum Discovery Center Page 19 222 Oak Avenue, Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-250-1200 www.spectrumdiscoverycenter.com

Theatres – Live

Old Courthouse Theatre Page 10 49 Spring Street N.W., Concord, NC 28025 704-788-2405 www.oldcourthousetheatre.org

Travel & Tourism

Cabarrus County Convention and Visitors Bureau Page 2 10099 Weddington Road, Concord, NC 28027 704-782-4340 www.visitcabarrus.com n

continued from page 10

Our final stop on Monday was a Friday reschedule. The Spa, near downtown Orlando, offers massages, reflexology, manicures, pedicures, body scrubs and more. A tour of the facility was a lead-in to our hour-long treatment session.

My masseuse, Nicole Gray, gave me strict orders to get a massage at least once a month...I am obliged to comply. For more information on The Spa, visit TheSpaLLC.com.

Now relaxed for the trip home, it was off to the airport.

As there was some bad weather in North Carolina, we were handed a piece of paper at Allegiant check-in. It briefly explained that, because of the weather, our flight may be delayed, cancelled or diverted to an alternate location.

Thankfully, none of these things happened.

The paper also stated that, had any of those options – delay, cancellation or diversion – been taken, Allegiant Air was not responsible for any additional costs incurred as a result. Again, always have a contingency plan.

Lesson 4: If you don’t have a contingency plan for the return trip home, see Lesson 1.

We arrived safely home having both enjoyed ourselves immensely and become a little wiser in the process. And the bottom line remains the same: If you want to get away for a few days without flying out of Greensboro or Charlotte, the option is here for you. Even if funds are limited, you can have a weekend for the record books. Safe travels! n

May 2015 31 n