May '16

MAY 2016

Concord Regional Airport: It’s Taking Off

Travel and Tourism Week: It’s for Locals, Too.

County Tourism: Full Speed Ahead

What’s Happening:

May’s Full Calendar of Events

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May 2016 3 n

Word on the Street May 2016 Volume 16 n Issue 5 President Pam Tolen Publisher Jason Huddle

Advertising Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle Contributing Writer Kim Cassell Contributing Photographers Michael A. Anderson Photography Cabarrus County CVB charlotteflying.com Concord Regional Airport InTown Suites The Silverman Group

Rachel Fesko

Managing Editor/Art Direction Kim Cassell

In the past, Cabarrus County has seen textiles, tobacco, banking, telephone service and coffee act as staples of our local economy. Today, only S&D Coffee and Tea remains.

In the early ‘90s, local officials came to the realization that if Cabarrus County was going to survive the exodus of these heavyweights, then restaurants, retail and hotels needed to be enticed to build here. In 1999, Concord Mills opened and the proverbial tourism snowball had been pushed.

Today, we’re home to two of the top 10 tourist attractions in the state: Concord Mills (no. 1) and Charlotte Motor Speedway (no. 5).

In this issue, you’ll become more familiar with the partnerships the Cabarrus County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) has with local businesses and how they affect our tourism industry. Read about what’s on the horizon for Concord Regional Airport, especially in terms of commercial travel. And the CVB shares a new travel and tourism program for local residents.

When you look at the number of people coming to live in and visit our area, it’s hard not to get excited. Perhaps, for this year’s vacation, you’ll wonder, if there’s so much to do right here in Cabarrus County, why leave?

Safe travels,

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. ©2016, Comfort Publishing Inc., 296 Church Street N., Concord, NC 28025. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without permission is prohibited. Products named in these pages are trademarks of their respective companies.

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

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Jason Huddle

Giving Credit In our April issue, the following photo credits were omitted from the SCC Interiors article.

Our sincere apologies.

Cover photo, before and after photos of bathroom on pages 12-13, and pantry and under-cabinet storage on page 17: Remodels were completed by Gerald Loftis with GCL Development. GCL Development, SCC Interiors, and homeowners Josh and Erica Phillips worked together to complete this project.

Barn door photo on page 5, kitchen on page 8, under-stairs powder room and marble tile floor on page 14, and bathroom appliance storage and outdoor living area on page 17: general contracting and design execution were completed by Tim and Wes Furr of Corban Homes of NC.

This Issue...

Destination: Cabarrus 6

Concord Regional Airport: It’s Taking Off

12

County Tourism: Full Speed Ahead

18

Paw Prints: Cabarrus’ Adoptable Dogs

20

Travel and Tourism Week: It’s for Locals, Too.

24

Cabarrus Business: On the Go

27

Breaking Bread: Daniel Garmon Dishes

28

What’s Happening: A Very Full May Calendar of Events

May 2016 5 n

Concord Regional Airport’s new ramp is complete.

The adjacent terminal and parking deck are slated to be finished in July.

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By Kim Cassell

Concord Regional Airport: It’s Taking Off The large aerial photos hanging on the conference room wall at Concord Regional Airport narrate how far the county has come in air travel in a short period of time.

Concord Regional was built in 1994 after a politically heated debate between Cabarrus County government (for growth) and a segment of the local citizenship (against growth) in an election year. We all know how that ended. The City now owns and operates the airport and hired Rick Cloutier as its aviation director in 2012.

Coming to Concord from Auburn-Lewiston Municipal Airport in Maine, Cloutier served as airport director there for six years. During his four years in Concord, he’s already witnessed the addition of Allegiant Airlines, which introduced commercial flights to and from Orlando and St. Petersburg, FL, in December of 2013. Fort Lauderdale followed in May 2014 and has become very popular, according to Cloutier. Allegiant has increased its number of flights since that time, now flying into and out of Concord every day of the week except Tuesday.

“Fifteen-thousand people flew on Allegiant in March alone,” Cloutier shares. "

Rick Cloutier

May 2016 7 n

Terminal construction as of mid-April: The new building will accommodate commercial aviation at Concord Regional.

“The flights were, on average, at 97 percent capacity compared to 91 percent normally.”

Spring breakers accounted for those particular numbers, but the steady increase of destination vacationers taking advantage of Concord’s commercial flights has prompted

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the City of Concord to expand for Allegiant with the construction of a new ramp, terminal and parking deck. The last large-scale project at the airport took place 10 years ago with the extension of the runway from 5,500 feet in length to 7,400 feet.

The ramp expansion – funded with

a $4.37-million grant awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), along with City airport monies – cost $4.9 million. The 250,000-squareyard, two-foot-thick block of concrete can accommodate three large planes – 737s and larger – and sits completed and adjacent to the new terminal

The two-level parking deck will hold 650-plus vehicles and sits adjacent to the new terminal.

construction site at the southern end of the airport. It will help traffic flow for taxiing aircraft and allow Allegiant to park their planes next to a terminal that will offer restrooms and fresh food vending. At a cost of $6.7 million, 95 percent of the funding has come from the federal and state government.

The other 5 percent is basically being divided between the City of Concord and a financing agreement.

Since the current Allegiant terminal is temporary – walls and all – this new, still-basic 30,000-square-foot terminal is a definite improvement. It’s also likely to entice expanded destinations on the part of Allegiant and/or other commercial carriers to enter the race.

Cloutier would not elaborate on what other airlines and, as he’s told many others who have inquired, says, “Other

airlines are interested and we’ve had conversations with other airlines. We have a spring meeting with Allegiant later this month (April) and then will be able to announce other (Allegiant) destinations and frequencies.”

In 2014, the most current year for statistics, Concord Regional was the

fifth busiest airport in North Carolina; no private or corporate passenger numbers were included. And Allegiant accounted for 140,000 passengers in 2015 while charter flights accounted for 40,000. Cloutier expects Concord to rise to no. 4 when 2015 rankings are released. "

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Above, left: There are no plans to add a second runway to Concord Regional, although additional land is available between the airport and Concord Mills Boulevard; Above, right: Concord Business Park is currently under construction with industrial spec buildings.

Adjacent to the new terminal is a two-level parking deck that will hold 650-plus vehicles and cost $5.5 million. That is being paid for with airport parking revenue. When viewing the construction site, it appears to be in a hole, but the end-product will see

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the top parking deck sit level with the terminal ground floor. Completion of both the terminal and deck are on time and on budget at this point, and slated for completion this July.

This phase also allows Concord Regional’s general aviation and

commercial aviation to be separate – a Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) requirement. The two divisions have different security requirements and, “We are also separating them so we can continue to service and grow both parts,” Cloutier explains.

Along with the changes Concord Regional is seeing in commercial aviation is the facility’s move away from housing NASCAR teams’ aircraft.

Yes, some team owners still keep small planes that can carry them to race city sites, but team staff is now being transported on charter flights by the likes of Miami Air, Southwest and Xtra Airways. Hendrick, Joe Gibbs Racing and Stewart-Haas are a few of the exceptions but Roush Racing, whose older planes’ engine lives expired, now utilize charters. The cost savings is a given. Cloutier says that area sports teams, from the likes of UNC Charlotte and Davidson College, are also taking advantage of charter flights out of Concord.

That said, Allegiant Airlines announced in March that it has been named the official passenger airline of NASCAR. This first-of-its-kind multiyear partnership will afford NASCAR fans flights to 20-plus race cities, like far-away Las Vegas, Phoenix and

Los Angeles. It also goes back to the aforementioned spring meeting with Allegiant, so Cabarrus Magazine readers should know the outcome by the time this issue hits the streets.

Next door to Concord Regional Airport is corporate construction on a monumental scale. At the entrance to the facility, and adjacent to Amazon, the Silverman Group is constructing spec buildings on 56 acres as part of Concord Airport Business Park’s Phase I. In the hopes of attracting industrial lessees, phases II and III will follow.

In conjunction with the construction in this corridor of the county, the NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and Cabarrus Rowan Metropolitan Planning Organization (CRMPO) plan to widen the 2.6mile section of Derita Road between Poplar Tent Road and Concord Mills Boulevard. The end result will be a four-lane road with a 23-foot median and 14-foot bicycle lanes.

So, if Concord Regional is experiencing pivotal growth, will a second runway be added? Cloutier says no and stresses that one runway is able to handle a large number of planes. It’s all about coordinating air traffic.

“You need a plane to land every three minutes for a second runway,” he says, but adds that the airport has a large tract of undeveloped land between it and Concord Mills Boulevard. In the meantime, improvements continue in the form of customer service, runway strengthening, hangar construction and airliner approaches.

Yes, Concord Regional is a smaller airport with fewer amenities than Charlotte-Douglas International. That’s appealing to many, however, especially those who fly often. And it’s right here in Cabarrus County.

“Charlotte is a great airport with a lot of great destinations,” Cloutier says.

“We don’t want to compete. We’re an alternative to Charlotte.” n

5/4 7:05pm Hagerstown Suns Weenie Wednesday presented by Nathan’s 5/5 7:05pm Hagerstown Suns 60¢ wing night presented by Wing Street Pizza Hut, Thirsty Thursday presented by Buffalo Wild Wings, Social Media Night, Cinco de Mayo celebration 5/6 7:05pm Hagerstown Suns Freebie Friday: Bacon Giveaway (first 500 fans) presented by Smithfield, Cabarrus County Schools Reading All-Stars Celebration Game 5/7 7:05pm Lakewood BlueClaws Post-game fireworks sponsored by Cabarrus Eye Center & Cabarrus Magazine, 5K Fun Run during the game, Highland Creek Neighborhood and Mt. Pleasant Night 5/8 2:05pm Lakewood BlueClaws Kids Day presented by Cornerstone Church, Mother’s Day, Cabarrus County Schools Reading All-Stars Celebration Game 5/9 7:05pm Lakewood BlueClaws Belly Buster Monday, Kannapolis Citizens Appreciation 5/10 7:05pm Lakewood BlueClaws Two-for-Tuesday presented by Arby’s, BINGO presented by CEENTA, Senior Club Night 5/16 7:05pm Greensboro Grasshoppers Belly Buster Monday, Kannapolis Citizens Appreciation 5/17 7:05pm Greensboro Grasshoppers Two-For-Tuesday presented by Arby’s, Bingo presented by CEENTA, Senior Club Night 5/18 7:05pm Greensboro Grasshoppers Weenie Wednesday presented by Nathan’s 5/26 7:05pm Asheville Tourists Motorsports Night with giveaways, Thirsty Thursday presented by Buffalo Wild Wings 5/27 7:05pm Asheville Tourists Charity Spotlight Night presented by ACN, Freebie Friday, Get Healthy Kannapolis Night 5/28 7:05pm Asheville Tourists Faith, Family & Fireworks Night presented by Cornerstone Church, pre-game Christian concert, Military Appreciation presented by Yuengling 5/29 2:05pm Asheville Tourists Team Photo Giveaway presented by Kannapolis Parks & Recreation featuring pre-game autograph party, Kids Day presented by Cornerstone Church, Post-Game Kids Run The Bases 5/30 7:05pm Augusta GreenJackets Belly Buster Monday, Kannapolis Citizens Appreciation 5/31 7:05pm Augusta GreenJackets Two-For-Tuesday presented by Arby’s, Bingo presented by CEENTA, Senior Club Night 6/1 7:05pm Augusta GreenJackets Weenie Wednesday presented by Nathan’s

Buy One, Get One Free Reserved-Level Ticket!

Valid for any Intimidators home game in May and June 2016.

With this coupon, courtesy of Cabarrus Magazine

May 2016 11 n

There are nearly 3,000 hotel rooms in Cabarrus County, the bulk of which are located at I-85 exits 49, 58 and 60.

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By Kim Cassell with Berkeley Young

County Tourism: Full Speed Ahead On the second Tuesday of every other month, the Cabarrus County Convention and Visitors Bureau’s (CVB) Partnership Team conducts a Partners Meeting.

Partners are those in Cabarrus County whose products or services cater to visitors to our area. The CVB Partnership Team provides useful data and information about what business and leisure visitors are looking for while here, as well as what draws them here.

In March, Berkeley Young of Young Strategies Inc. spoke at the Partners Meeting entitled The State of Tourism, at the City Club at Gibson Mill. Young Strategies is a Charlotte-based firm that, in part, researches travel trends, educating and aiding travel and tourism businesses with how best to draw in and cater to destination travelers.

As the demand for leisure travel destinations increases – 37.8 percent of residents in the Southeast plan to travel more in 2016 – so does the demand for hotel accommodations, eateries, activities, etc.

“The greater Charlotte area is the hub of a 12-county metropolitan area with a 2014 population of 2.4 million residents,” according to Young. In that same year, Cabarrus County ranked 12th in the state (Mecklenburg: No. 1) in terms of visitor spending – at more than $400 million that fiscal year. Those visitors are offered 2,788 hotel rooms countywide with the bulk, not surprisingly, located at the I-85 exits 49 and 58/60 corridors. In fact, 198 new rooms have been added to these specific sectors since 2010. "

Berkeley Young

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“To thrive in 2016 you MUST embrace change without fear.

It’s an exciting dynamic travel economy, so jump in and go for it.”

Even more rooms are being added this year, about 125 of them with the construction of UpTown Suites off Weddington Road Extension, near Concord Mills. This $7- to $10-million hotel, which broke ground in February, is part of the InTown Suites brand and the first of its kind anywhere. It will have a more upscale vibe and hopes to cater to visitors staying here longer, whether that be for business, relocation or vacation. Amenities will include full-sized kitchens and

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appliances, big-screen televisions and comfy furniture. Additionally, existing InTown Suites will get a facelift.

Occupancy in our hotels has steadily increased since 2010 – with the exception of a slight dip in 2013 – to 65.5 percent in 2015, matching the national average. And that’s above the state’s average of about 62.5 percent.

The months with the highest occupancy rates are typical for destination travel: the summer months (May through July) and October when

- Berkeley Young Young Strategies Inc.

they reach nearly 70 percent. The average daily rate (ADR) for a room in Cabarrus County was $100.28 in 2015, up from $85.59 in 2010. This equated to annual lodging revenue of $55.7 million last year.

So, who travels to Cabarrus County and takes advantage of its accommodations? According to Young, individual business travelers make up the bulk while those here for conferences, sports tournaments, NASCAR, then group tours round out

InTown Suites is building the first-ever UpTown Suites in Cabarrus County, off Weddington Road Extension.

the field. Those here for NASACARrelated events and those visiting the area in general account for about 20 percent of all visitors.

Those in the county for a racingrelated trip stay an average of 4.12 nights; they spend more than $1,399 on an overnight trip and $533 for a racing daytrip.

Residents of Cabarrus County realize the positive impact NASCAR has on the economy. So how, in 2016, do businesses catering to destination travelers lure them in? Young provides eight important trends gleaned from Skift Magazine’s Megatrends Defining Travel in 2016: “1. Food is now the leading hook for travel; 2. Direct booking wars are in full bloom;

3. The rise of fast casual design in travel; 4. Video is the new language of brand communication; 5. Build your own passenger experience is the future of flying; 6. Messaging is the new language of the globe; are travel brands listening;

7. Partnership time for hospitality in the on-demand economy; 8. Smart travel agents adopt the concierge mindset.�

Young singled out messaging, social media and the Internet from this list, predicting that there will be some 4 billion Internet users by 2018, "

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Fans visiting Cabarrus County for racing-related events spend an average of $533 for a racing daytrip.

3.6 billion messaging users and 2.4 billion social media users. And travelers are already utilizing all these methods in planning their trips.

The most demanding are the Millennials – the generation born between 1981 and 1994. They make

up the largest group of leisure travelers, are digitally savvy and have high expectations. Case in point: According to Young, in the past 12 months 59.4 percent of those planning to travel have used user-generated content (UGC). This is anything from blogs,

to videos, to audio advertisements.

Within the social media arena, mobile phones are used to access travel information (49.4 percent), as well as a designated marketing organization (DMO) website (36.4 percent) and facebook (30.8 percent).

Cabarrus Magazine would like to thank its digital sponsors!

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When using offline methods to plan a trip, individuals rely most on the opinions of friends and family (46.2 percent), a travel or lifestyle magazine (18.4 percent) and direct mail pieces (15.6 percent).

In Young’s leisure visitor profile, respondents chose activities that would appeal to them while visiting a particular area. The top five are outdoor/drive-in movie theatres (39.1 percent); country/western concerts (30.8 percent); contemporary/pop/ rock concerts (27.3 percent); more nighttime entertainment (25.3 percent); and upscale, finer dining (17.8 percent).

The rest of the responses, in order of most requested, were an arts and antique district; unique boutique shopping; live theatre series; an upscale, unique hotel in downtown Concord; an upscale RV park resort; classical concerts; and a horse racing event center.

Those in Cabarrus County for a racerelated visit ranked their satisfaction with the experience highest – more than 4 out of 5 – in comparison to leisure or business/conference/ marketing visits (although those figures were close behind). This included the event itself; quality in, and value paid for, lodging; quality of dining; and their overall experience in Cabarrus County.

Broken down even more – into categories like variety of shopping and merchandise, ease of finding visitor information, and level of service and employee training – ease of traffic ranked lowest: about 3.75 out of 5.

(Stay tuned for the August issue of Cabarrus Magazine: Growing Pains.)

Young is very complimentary of Cabarrus County, in particular, the CVB. “The single most effective strategy to stretch your marketing budget is to tailgate on the methods of the Cabarrus County CVB and VisitNC,” he says, adding that this county is doing it right, and sets the bar high when he finds himself giving the same

In Young Strategies’ leisure visitor profile, upscale/finer dining was a request. However, visitors are also drawn to North Carolina’s barbecue, and local restaurants like the Smoke Pit cater to that.

kinds of presentations elsewhere in North Carolina…tooting our horn for us.

As Cabarrus County grows and becomes more of its own travel destination, Young urges area business to work in tandem to make it an even

more exciting and memorable place to visit. He uses a metaphor from NASCAR. “Drafting: Rear car fills the low-pressure area and reduces drag on the front car. Result: Cars work together to minimize resistance. Speed increases.” n

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

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

This is Freddy, a longhaired Chihuahua/Pomeranian mix about one year old. Handsome Freddy has a lot of energy. He is very loving once he gets used to you, but he can be picky about his human friends and needs to be introduced to strangers in a quiet setting. He would do best with a single person as, once he bonds with someone, he can become protective of that person. He cannot go to a home with children. If interested in Freddy, please come to our facility and bond with him and let him get to know you.

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

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Kelsey Lynn is 13-year-old Jack Russell Terrier mix, but don’t let her age fool you.

Small dogs, in particular, can live long lives.

Kelsey Lynn is housetrained, crate-trained and enjoying a foster home. She does well with other dogs and shows no real interest in cats other than to see what they are up to. She’s a sweet girl who just wants a lap to sit on and a nice bed to sleep in. She would do best in a home with children over 12.

Kelsey Lynn is spayed and up-to-date on her vaccines. She does have a weak bladder and is on medication for that two times daily.

Please give Kelsey Lynn a chance at a true forever home by contacting her foster mom at scootiemax@yahoo.com.

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

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By Kim Cassell

Travel and Tourism Week: It’s for Locals, Too. Each May, the Cabarrus County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) takes part in National Travel and Tourism Week. This year’s event takes place May 1 through 7.

Congress implemented Travel and Tourism Week by passing a resolution in 1983. The week is meant to recognize the importance and value of tourism to the U.S. economy and urges those in the industry to share that value with their local residents on a local level.

This year’s National Travel and Tourism Week theme is Travel ’16. “Our goal is to ensure that travel – and its positive impact – is part of the discussion amidst the 2016 election season,” ustravel.org says. “After all, travel is a primary industry in America. That’s why we’re having travel ‘hit the campaign trail’ for National Travel and Tourism Week 2016. There’s no debate about it – travel is a bi-partisan industry that works for America.”

According to the CVB, “In 2003, tourism’s estimated economic impact was $190.79 million. In 2013, the impact was $371.87 million. Each year, the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Division of Tourism, Film and Sports Development conducts economic impact studies to help determine the impact of tourism on each county. Metrics that are calculated include expenditures, payroll, employment, state tax receipts and local tax receipts.” "

Opposite page: The carousel in the food court of Concord Mills Mall. The mall is the state’s no.1 tourist attraction. Above: Leisure visitors to the area are invited to pan for gold at Reed Gold Mine in Midland.

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Top, left: Visitors to Cabarrus County will enjoy the four-wide NHRA drag races at zMax Dragway in Concord; Bottom, left: The Kannapolis Intimidators’ 2016 season just opened last month.

And there’s a way to measure the economic impact of a single event.

Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI) uses Tourism Economics’ “calculator” to determine

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an event’s return on investment in local taxes. Business sales, personal income, jobs supported, persons employed, and total federal, state and local taxes generated are converted into

data “which measure the difference in per diem costs by city,” according to the CVB, adding, “The calculator determined that the 2013 World of Outlaws World Finals at the Dirt Track at Charlotte Motor Speedway created a direct impact of $4,675,503 and a total impact of $7,740,170 for Cabarrus County. A total of 2,235 jobs were supported, and the event provided the local economy with $389,551 in local taxes.”

On May 6 at Great Wolf Lodge, the Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce, Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation (EDC) and the CVB will join together for the third consecutive year to host Celebrate Cabarrus. This formal event will see the release of such figures as those above as well as recognize those who have gone above and beyond in promoting Cabarrus County tourism. Those attending will enjoy dinner, an awards presentation and dancing.

What’s new this year is that the CVB is getting the general public involved in Travel and Tourism Week, and beyond. Called BRR, or Book Friends & Family, this program is geared toward familiarizing Cabarrus County residents with its lodging options while, at the same time, making it a contest of sorts.

“Visit Cabarrus (CVB) is teaming up with local hospitality and tourism industry partners to host a special hotel Open House just for locals,” Julie Hinson, the CVB’s communications manager, says. “Drop in for a hotel tour and become the family expert on where to stay! So when school is out and summer vacation plans are taking shape, or it’s time to host your relatives over the holidays, you’ll be armed with all the information you need to find your BFFs the perfect home away from home.”

Great Wolf Lodge is a real draw for both locals and families visiting the area.

If a participant reserves a room for friends or family, they can log on to VisitCabarrus.com and register the confirmation number to be entered to win special prizes. As of press time, program details were being finalized and the official launch date had not been announced. You can go to VisitCabarrus.com for more information.

Stay tuned for the June issue of Cabarrus Magazine where we’ll share the Celebrate Cabarrus award winners, and facts and figures from the event. n

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On the Go The Salvation Army Renames Homeless Shelter On May 10 at 10:00am, The Salvation Army of Cabarrus and Stanly Counties’ Advisory Board, Women’s Auxiliary and community partners are hosting a ribbon-cutting and shelter blessing for The Salvation Army Center of Hope.

The shelter, formerly known as Samaritan House, is the only emergency shelter in Cabarrus County.

At full capacity, it houses 16 men, eight women and one family.

The Salvation Army divisional commander of North and South Carolina, Lt. Colonel Eddie Hobgood, and Concord Mayor Scott Padgett will be part of the ceremony.

The community is invited; light refreshments will be served afterward.

The Salvation Army Center of Hope Shelter is located at 216 Patterson Avenue S.E. in Concord. For more information, call 704-782-7822.

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Duke Energy Investment In RCCC Tops $1 Million Duke Energy and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (RCCC) announce a $50,000 investment as part of Duke Energy’s 2016 workforce development grants. The latest grant from Duke Energy puts the company’s total investment in the college at more than $1 million.

The funds will enable equipment enhancements for engineering technologies programs. These enhancements include two MechLab Systems and four AB CompactLogix Programmable Logic Controllers, as well as associated supplies and software.

The MechLab Automated Training Systems equipment will assist in learning objectives in the engineering technology programs. In conjunction with the MechLab Systems, the Programmable Logic Controllers will give students insight into one of the most significant fields of application for automation technology: production technology.

Today, manufacturers across the country are facing a skills gap between the technical skills their employees need and the skills they find in applicants.

Rowan-Cabarrus is working diligently with manufacturers to do its part in addressing the gap that prohibits employers from filling these high-tech, highwage jobs, and the Duke Energy grant will help the college to further that.

The grant was given to the Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Foundation’s Building a More Prosperous Community Major Gifts Campaign. The campaign is centered on four key initiatives that address specific needs for the college, including advanced technology, healthcare education, an outdoor learning and amphitheater space, and STEAM scholarships for students pursuing science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics.

For information on the Rowan-Cabarrus Community College Foundation, visit www.rccc.edu/foundation.

Ben Franklin Crafts Becomes Creative Home & Floral Patrons of Ben Franklin Crafts, located in Kannapolis’ Cloverleaf Plaza, were heartbroken when the store closed its doors last winter. But there’s been a renewal, and it’s located at the former Troutman’s Barbecue location at 1388 Warren C. Coleman Boulevard in Concord.

Creative Home & Floral opened its doors last month, even before fully stocking its shelves in its much larger new location. Many of the Ben Franklin employees have moved with the store, which has changed its focus somewhat – away from crafts.

According to the store’s website, “We are an outdoor living store with a heavy emphasis on floral and home decorating. We aim to value price each and every item with no gimmicks and no games. Our store may not be for everyone, but everybody will find something they like in our store.”

Local Author to Host Book Reading Vincent James, writing as Jackson Badgenoone (pronounced Badge-No-One), is hosting a book reading at the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society Museum on Sunday, May 22, at 2:00pm. At the event James will share passages from the soon-to-be-released audio book version of his debut novel, The Hidden Treasure of Dutch Buffalo Creek.

Layered in historical fiction, the story is framed in Vincent James current-day Cabarrus and Rowan counties, but unfolds with a series of flashbacks that lead the central character back to Buffalo Creek. The book contains 10 translucent memoirs that explore the cause and consequences of conflict encountered by a tightly knit clan.

Print versions of the book are available locally at several retail establishments in Concord and Mount Pleasant, and at all four branches of the Cabarrus County library system. Print and eBook versions are also available online at Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble resellers.

The Hidden Treasure of Dutch Buffalo Creek is the first of several works scheduled for publication. More about the series and the book can be found at www.hiddentreasurenovels.com.

Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society Museum is located at 1100 N. Main Street in historic downtown Mount Pleasant. "

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Senior Center Celebrates Grand Reopening The Cabarrus County Senior Center in Mt. Pleasant has hosted a grand reopening celebration with refreshments and door prizes. The center closed for renovations in midFebruary and reopened in March.

The Cabarrus County Senior Center offers free and low-cost services and programs that support wellness and socialization for area seniors.

Stop in anytime – no appointment is necessary – to try out the fitness room, join a beginning fitness class or give line dancing a spin. Learn about monthly veterans’ breakfasts, daily LunchPlus Club activities, book swaps, card games and more.

Hours at the Mt. Pleasant location are 9:00am to 5:00pm, Monday through Friday, and new class sessions are underway. Sign up now to reserve your space. Call 704-920-3484 to connect and find the right fit for you.

Town of Harrisburg Hires New Town Manager Bobby Williams is the new town manager for Harrisburg.

With more than 10 years of local government experience with the Town of Huntersville, he was involved at every level of that organization during his tenure. His experience covers public information, civic engagement, community and legislative affairs, HR/risk management, economic development, emergency preparedness, transportation and Bobby Williams strategic planning. He is also a graduate of the International City and County Management Association’s Emerging Leaders Development Program.

In 2011, Williams was recognized as Huntersville’s employee of the year for creating Huntersville 101, the town’s citizens academy.

“We feel that Bobby Williams is an excellent choice to lead the town of Harrisburg forward,” Mayor Steve Sciascia says. “His experience in a rapid-growth municipality bordering Charlotte will be of great benefit to our community as we continue to manage smart growth and focus on quality of life in Harrisburg.”

Kannapolis Charter Academy Hires Founding Principal Kannapolis Charter Academy has hired its founding principal, veteran educator Katrina Samuels.

Samuels has worked in the field of education for 14 years, beginning her career as an educator in New York City’s Department of Education where she implemented the teacher’s college reading and writing curriculum, Chicago’s Everyday Mathematics curriculum and NYCDOE’s science and social studies curriculum. She most recently served as founding assistant principal at Renaissance Charter School at Katrina Samuels West Palm Beach and is currently enrolled in Charter Schools USA’s well-recognized Leading Edge program.

Kannapolis Charter Academy is a proud member of the CSUSA family of schools. CSUSA, the first education management company to receive corporation system-wide accreditation through AdvancED, is one of the nation’s leading charter school management companies. In the 2015-2016 school year, CSUSA manages 76 schools in seven states and serves more than 60,000 students in Kindergarten through 12th grade.

Kannapolis Charter Academy is governed by the North Carolina Charter Educational Foundation. n

Cabarrus Magazine would like to thank its digital sponsors!

| Prominent position on homepage | Categorized business website listing | Logo placement with hotlink on every page of website | Company profile page To find out more about all of our great print and digital marketing opportunities, please call us at 704-782-2353.

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Breaking Bread cabarrus magazine is happy to feature CHEF DANIEL GARMON. he WILL BE BRINGING ONE OF HIS OWN RECIPES TO CABARRUS MAGAZINE READERS EACH MONTH, so Bon Appetit!

Fruitful Catering has been a full-service caterer for Cabarrus and surrounding counties in the Carolinas since 2001.

They have more than 25 years experience planning events from elegant dinners in homes to large events catering to thousands. They will come to your location or you can plan your event at the Copperfield Room. They offer specialty menus for all types of occasions, are open to requests and ready to meet your individual needs.

There is no initial consultation fee so call today at 704-467-3062 or email us at fruitfulcatering@cs.com. n

Layered Mexican Veggie Dip Ingredients One 16 oz. container Yucatan guacamole One can black beans, drained and rinsed Two cups salsa One 8 oz. container sour cream Four Roma tomatoes, diced One bunch green onions, finely chopped One 16 oz. can refried beans Two cups shredded Mexican-style cheese blend One 2.25 oz. can black olives, drained and finely chopped Directions In a 9�x 13� dish or on a large serving platter, spread the refried beans. Top with sour cream. Spread on guacamole, black beans and salsa. Top with tomatoes, green onions, Mexican-style cheese blend and black olives.

This is a great, quick appetizer fix-ahead. Store in refrigerator before using. Serve with tortilla chips and your favorite drink.

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What’s Happening Run Kannapolis: Jiggy with the Piggy 5K May 3 • 6:30pm Downtown Kannapolis • Part of the Run Kannapolis Series, the City’s Discover a Healthy Life brand • To register or for more information on the series, visit runkannapolis.com.

Kannapolis Farmers Market May 5, 12, 19, 26 • 4:00-7:00pm • Corner of Vance Street and Dale Earnhardt Boulevard • Support local growers and enjoy fresh produce, dairy products, baked goods, honey and crafts • WIC vouchers, SNAP/EBT and credit cards accepted • www.kannapolisnc.gov Celebrate Cabarrus May 6 • 6:30-10:30pm Great Wolf Lodge Charlotte/Concord 10175 Weddington Road Ext., Concord • The Chamber partners with Cabarrus Economic Development Corporation and the Convention and Visitors Bureau to recognize outstanding individuals and organizations in areas of both business and tourism. This formal evening event will include the presentation of awards followed by a night of dancing.

• Chemin Duffey: 704-260-8110; coordinator@cabarrus.biz Jiggy with the Piggy BARBECUE competition & Festival May 6 (5:00-10:00pm) May 7 (9:00am-5:00pm) Downtown Kannapolis • More than 80 barbecue competition teams; sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society • Movies on the Campus (Friday), carnival rides for children, Kids Zone activities, arts & crafts vendors, live musical entertainment, fireworks • www.jiggywiththepiggy.com

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Customer Appreciation Day/ Annual Open House May 7 • 2:00-6:00pm Five Elements of Healing 151 Church Street N.E., Concord • Tour the facility, meet the therapists, enjoy free services • Demos, prizes, contest, food...a full afternoon of fun!!

• 877-825-8740; www.fiveelementsofhealing.com Nate Randall Live May 7 • 6:00-9:00pm • Free High Branch Brewing 325 McGill Avenue N.W., Ste. 148, Concord • Acoustic lounge rock • 704-706-3807 Piedmont Farmers Market May 7, 14, 21, 28 • 8:00am 518 Winecoff School Road, Concord • Open year-round. Fresh local produce, honey, free-range eggs, antibiotic- and hormone-free beef, chicken and pork • 704-425-5559; www.piedmont-farmersmarket.com The Cabarrus Quilt Guild May 9 • Doors open at 6:00pm Forest Hill United Methodist Church 265 Union Street N., Concord • Meet & Greet/refreshments: 6:15-6:45pm • Guest speaker: Wendy Butler Berns, quilt artist, teacher and lecturer • www.CabarrusQuiltersGuild.com chamber Business After Hours May 10 • 5:30-7:00pm Eastwood Homes at Parkview Estates 166 Central Heights Drive, Concord • Members are FREE; non-members are welcome three times per year: first visit is free, second and third visits are $10.

• Chemin Duffey: 704-260-8110; coordinator@cabarrus.biz

Small Business Counseling May 11 • By appointment (second Wednesday of each month) Harrisburg Town Hall 4100 Main Street, Harrisburg • Free, confidential counseling for advice on business planning, growth, problem solving, funding, marketing • Complete the Request for Counseling form and you will be contacted within 48 hours: www.rccc.edu/sbc • Sponsored by RCCC: SBC • Barbara Hall: 704-216-7222 The Listening Room at the Davis May 12 • 7:30-9:00pm • $5 at the door Davis Theatre 65 Union Street S., Concord • Local talent takes the stage the first Tuesday of each month for fun, G-rated entertainment.

• 704-920-2787; listenroom@yahoo.com Kannapolis Arts Showcase May 13 • 7:00-10:00pm (second Friday of each month) Sunshine’s Asian Cuisine 215 West A Street, Kannapolis • Artists are invited to come out with two to three pieces of their work. Share and discuss your work with other local artists. Please be ready by 7:00pm.

• mknox@modernfilminc.com; www.kannapolisarts.com 2nd Saturday Open Studios at CLEARWATER ARTIST STUDIOS May 14 • 10:00am-4:00pm 223 Crowell Drive N.W., Concord • Several art studios on premises will be open with resident artists present to talk to, watch work, etc. Newly-paved, free parking on-site. Concord’s Historic Downtown and eateries close by.

• 704-784-9535; clearwaterartists.com

Run Kannapolis: Rhythm & Run 5K May 14 • 8:00am Downtown Kannapolis • Part of the Run Kannapolis Series, the City’s Discover a Healthy Life brand • To register or for more information on the series, visit runkannapolis.com.

SPRING INTO ARTS FESTIVAL May 14 • 10:00am-4:00pm • Free Historic Downtown Concord • Juried art show, musical entertainment, fantastic food and a children’s area that inspires the artistic side in all of us!

• Celebrate the art of wine-making and brewing by enjoying a tasting of area wines and beers from select wineries and breweries!

• 704-784-4208; www.concorddowntown.com Memory Cafe´ May 18 • Free (third Wednesday of each month) Faith Coffee & Sweets 5040 NC Highway 49, Harrisburg • Open to anyone experiencing dementia, their loved ones and/or their care partners.

Share time, stories and journeys together while having fun in a social setting.

• No preregistration is required.

• Michelle Marciniak: 704-698-6324; michelle.marciniakcarillonassistedliving.com CABARRUS CHRISTIAN Women’s Connection May 19 • 9:30am • $15 Cabarrus Country Club 3247 Weddington Road, Concord • Premier Designs: Classic wardrobe staples to the latest must-have trends in jewelry • A Cracked Pot by guest speaker, Becky Dollinger. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, she will share her story of life as a twin and a control freak who finally turned loose.

• Brunch Music: Chris Roe • For reservations (May 16 deadline) and information, contact Barbara at 704-7862722 or barb1960@windstream.net.

Sponsored by the Cabarrus Christian Women’s Connection, an affiliate of Stonecroft Ministries

Haulers on Union Parade and Fan Fest May 19 • 5:00-9:00pm • Free Union Street, Historic Downtown Concord • NASCAR Sprint Cup Haulers will parade through downtown on their way to CMS for two weeks of racing.

• Fan activities, show cars, mascots, live bands • 800-848-3740; www.visitcabarrus.com

Circle K & Kangaroo Speed Street May 26-28 • 12:00 noon-11:00pm Uptown Charlotte • Live entertainment, access to racing’s brightest stars and interactive displays • Sol Fusion, The Voltage Brothers, Montgomery Gentry, Chris Young, Kellie Pickler and The Band Perry • www.600festival.com/speed-street

NC Education Lottery 200 May 20 • $26.75+ Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • The stars of the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series take on the high banks under the lights. Plus, see the fender-bending 40lap Sprint Showdown: the last chance for Cup drivers to race their way into the Sprint All-Star Race!

• 800-455-3267; www.charlottemotorspeedway.com

LiftMaster Pole Night May 26 • $12.84+ Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers take to the track in a three-round knockout qualifying format to determine who will go and who will go home as the field is set for the Coca-Cola 600.

• 800-455-3267

NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race May 21 • $52.43+ Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • Sparks will fly in this checkers or wreckers non-points event with $1 million for the winner.

• 800-455-3267; www.charlottemotorspeedway.com State of the Region, Transportation Summit May 24 • 7:45-10:30am Embassy Suites 5400 John Q. Hammons Drive N.W., Concord • We welcome NCDOT Secretary Nick Tennyson for an update on how the new Strategic Transportation Investments (STI) law is allowing projects to get done.

• NC Ports Authority CEO Paul Cozza • Speakers will address the FAST Act (Fixing America’s Surface Transportation) federal legislation.

• Deb Carter: dcarter@cabarrus.biz Realbusiness seminar May 25 • 12:00 noon-2:00pm Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce 3003 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Suite 2, Kannapolis • Retirement Planning • Video-based seminar featuring stories shared by real business owners • Sponsored by Marc Shepherd of MassMutual Carolinas and Warren Williams of TurningPoint Business Coaching • Warren Williams: 704-707-4333; www.TurningPointBizCoach.com

The Breakfast for the arts May 27 • 7:00-8:30am • Free Embassy Suites 5400 John Q. Hammons Drive N.W., Concord • Enjoy a hot breakfast while supporting the work of the Cabarrus Arts Council at this annual fundraiser.

• Reservations required by May 20: 704-920-ARTS (2787) or email Natasha@CabarrusArtsCouncil.org.

• 704-920-2787; www.cabarrusartscouncil.org PNC Speed Street 5K May 28 • 8:00am Uptown Charlotte • Young runners can enjoy a 600-yard fun run starting at 8:45am.

• www.600festival.com/speed-street-5k SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY May 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.

• 704-784-4208; www.concorddowntown.com Coca-Cola 600 May 29 • $63+ Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • See an amazing pre-race show honoring our Memorial Day military heroes.

• 800-455-3267

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At a Glance

Antiques & Collectibles The Depot at Gibson Mill Page 31 325 McGill Avenue N.W., Concord, NC 28027 704-787-9351 www.depotgibsonmill.com

Automotive Sales Ben Mynatt Family of Dealerships Page 10 281-289 Concord Parkway S., Concord, NC 28027 704-786-2151 (Cadillac) 704-788-2121 (GMC) www.benmynatt.com

Banking/Financial Institutions Bank of North Carolina Page 23 3890 Main Street, Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-455-1070 271 Copperfield Blvd., Concord, NC 28025 704-723-6300 www.bankofnc.com

Book Publishers Comfort Publishing Page 23 296 Church Street N., Concord, NC 28025 704-782-2353 www.comfortpublishing.com

Caterering Services Fruitful Catering 704-467-3062 fruitfulcatering@cs.com www.fruitfulcatering.com

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Churches New Hope Worship Center Page 2 452 Brookwood Ave. N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-0155 www.newhopewc.org

Civic Organizations Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce 3003 Dale Earnhardt Blvd., Suite 2 Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-782-4000 www.cabarrus.biz

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Land Sales

Cabarrus Country Club Page 31 3247 Weddington Road, Concord, NC 28027 704-786-3104 www.cabarruscc.org

American Land Corporation - Charlotte Page 15 21031 Catawba Avenue, Suite 105 Cornelius, NC 28031 704-535-4100 www.americanlandcorporation.com

County Parks Cabarrus County Active Living & Parks www.CabarrusCounty.us/ALP

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Credit Unions Charlotte Metro Credit Union Page 32 718 Central Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28204 704-375-0183 www.cmcu.org

Event Venues The Laureate Center Page 17 401 Laureate Way, Kannapolis, NC 28081 704-920-4300 www.kannapolisnc.gov Rocky River Golf Club 6900 Bruton Smith Boulevard Concord, NC 28027 704-455-1200 www.rockyrivergolf.com

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Computer Sales, Service and Repair

Funeral Homes Hartsell Funeral Homes Page 22 460 Branchview Dr. N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-1161 13575 Broadway Avenue, Midland, NC 28107 704-888-5571

Carolina CompuTech Page 15 850 Union Street S., Concord, NC 28025 704-785-8066 • 704-785-8076 tech@carolinacomputech.com www.carolinacomputech.com

Wilkinson Funeral Home Page 25 100 Branchview Drive N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-3168 www.wilkinsonfuneralhome.com

General Contractors GCL Development, LLC 1110 North NC Highway 153 China Grove, NC 28023 704-856-1114 cj@gcldevelopment.com

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General Surgeons The Piedmont Surgical Clinic, PA Page 16 431 Copperfield Boulevard, Concord, NC 28025 704-786-1104 www.piedmontsurgical.com

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Painting/Home Maintenance AMP Indoor/Outdoor, LLC Page 9 127 Stonecrest Circle S.E., Concord, NC 28027 704-737-5011 www.ampindooroutdoor.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

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Print & Technology Services

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

Cleaning Services – Office Blue-J 51 Union Street S., Concord, NC 28025 704-589-3148 www.bluejsmallofficecleaning.com

Country Clubs

Modern Impressions Page 25 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

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Racing Events The 600 Festival Association Page 3 6427 Saddle Creek Court, Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-361-5230 www.600festival.com/speed-street

Rugs – Retail Rug Gallery at Concord Mills 8455 Pit Stop Court N.W., Suite 125 Concord, NC 28025 704-979-7847 www.ruggalleryoutlet.com

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Theatres – Live Old Courthouse Theatre Page 14 49 Spring Street N.W., Concord, NC 28025 704-788-2405 www.oldcourthousetheatre.org

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