May, 2018

MAY 2018

The American Dream?

Emily Francis: Perseverance Personified

Cinco de Mayo: The Battle of Puebla

Breaking Bread:

Slow-Cooked Pulled Chicken Tacos

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May 2018 3 n

Word on the Street May 2018 Volume 18 n Issue 5 President Pam Tolen

Managing Editor/Art Direction Kim Cassell Advertising Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle Contributing Writers Amanda Buck Kim Cassell Contributing Photographers Michael A. Anderson Photography Associated Press Cabarrus County CAMAC/Flickr Wikipedia YouTube

Cabarrus Magazine is published by: Comfort Publishing Inc. 296 Church Street N., Hidden Plaza Concord, NC 28025 For editorial inquiries, call 704-743-7498 or email them to Kim Cassell at kcassell@ cabarrusmagazine.com. For advertising inquiries, call Kimberly Brouillette at 704305-7599 or Jason Huddle at 704-907-7847.

Visit us at www.cabarrusmagazine.com.

All rights reserved. ©2018, Comfort Publishing Inc., 296 Church Street N., Concord, NC 28025. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without permission is prohibited. Products named in these pages are trademarks of their respective companies. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Cabarrus Magazine or Comfort Publishing Inc.

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Rachel Fesko

Publisher Jason Huddle

I spent part of my childhood in Latin America.

As a missionary kid I had the privilege of living in Mexico, Costa Rica and southern Texas.

Needless to say, I have a unique perspective on the current debate of illegal aliens, DACA Dreamers and the like. I know what it’s like to not have anyone else that looks like you, or even speaks your language, on your block. I have seen true poverty.

By that, I don’t mean a family living on welfare in a run-down apartment. I mean entire families living in a 10’x10’ shack, with a mud floor, made from tin and aluminum scrap. I mean families who literally have nothing and have no choice but to scrape together and fight every day to have just a fraction of what even the poorest in America have. Where these people live, there is no welfare or entitlements. There are no shelters or soup kitchens and few even care.

I say this to give you a true understanding of why so many people are desperately trying to come into this country, both illegally and legally. I also have experience with the system to come into this country that is so expensive and bogged down in bureaucracy and red tape that it serves as the primary deterrent for anyone trying to enter the U.S. the right way. Does that mean we should just let everyone in who desires it? Of course not. But the system must be fixed. Walls won’t solve everything.

Regardless of your position on the issue, the fact remains that the Hispanic population in Cabarrus County has grown exponentially over the past two decades. As of 2015, one in every 10 people in Cabarrus County is of Hispanic descent and that number continues to climb. This is why we decided to dedicate this issue of CM to celebrating Hispanic culture in our region, as well as those in our community – like Emily Francis – who are truly making a difference. They may not have been born here, but our county is certainly better for them being here.

So, take a moment and immerse yourself in a culture that puts family above all else, embraces its heritage and, frankly, creates some of the best food known to man, in my humble opinion.

Hasta Luego!

Jason Huddle

This Issue...

Cultural Diversity in Cabarrus 6

The American Dream?

11

Breaking Bread: Slow-Cooked Pulled Chicken Tacos

12

Emily Francis: Perseverance Personified

17

Crime Stoppers: The Pizza Hut Case

20

Cinco de Mayo: The Battle of Puebla

24

Cabarrus Business: On the Go

27

Paw Prints: Cabarrus’ Adoptable Dogs

May 2018 5 n

President Trump still hopes to have a border wall built between the U.S. and Mexico. It could come with a price tag of more than $20 billion.

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By Kim Cassell

The American Dream?

THE UNITED STATES CENSUS BUREAU ESTIMATES CABARRUS COUNTY’S 2017 POPULATION TO HAVE NEARED 207,000 PEOPLE. OF THAT NUMBER, JUST UNDER 19,000 ARE HISPANIC – ALMOST 10 PERCENT.

For years, there’s been an ongoing debate over the large numbers of Hispanics entering the U.S. And while so many have assimilated here, there’s a renewed unrest among documented and undocumented alike.

Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that tracks American trends and issues. Its research shows that, in 2015, 43.2 million people living in the U.S. – 13.4 percent of the country’s population – were not born here. Seventy-six percent of that 43 million entered the country legally.

As of 2015, Mexicans topped the list of people living in the U.S.: 11.6 million and 27 percent of all immigrants in this country. Reasons for Mexicans entering the U.S. are varied. They leave behind poverty, drugs and crime hoping for employment opportunities, better medical care and a good education for their children here.

Other Latin American countries seeing their citizens exiting are El Salvador, Dominican Republic, Guatemala and Honduras. “Today, more non-Mexicans than Mexicans are apprehended at the border. In fiscal 2016, the apprehensions of Central Americans at the border exceeded that of Mexicans for the second time on record,” according to Pew Research. “The number of apprehensions at the U.S.Mexico border has sharply decreased over the past decade, from more than 1 million in fiscal 2006 to 408,870 in fiscal 2016.”

This could be attributed to a new trend – more Mexicans leaving the U.S. to go back to their home country. Prior to the recession of 2007 Hispanics earned more in the U.S., bringing what is termed low-skill labor like construction, hospitality and landscaping to the American workforce. By 2010, the recession had created a reduction in the need for low-skill employees.

In addition, some families planned on remaining in this country only until they could save enough money to return home. If they were undocumented, the rise in border patrols and immigration restrictions intensified this.

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Border Patrol agents take a family from El Salvador into custody for illegally entering the U.S. by crossing the Rio Grande River. The family was fleeing the rampant gang violence in their country.

Pew Research adds, “Not all lawful permanent residents choose to pursue U.S. citizenship. Those who wish to do so may apply after meeting certain requirements, including having lived in the U.S. for five years. In fiscal year 2016, 971,242 immigrants applied for naturalization. The number of naturalization applications has climbed in recent years, though the annual totals remain below those seen in previous years.

“Generally, most immigrants eligible for naturalization apply to become citizens. However, Mexican lawful immigrants have the lowest naturalization rate overall. Language and personal barriers, lack of interest and financial barriers are among

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the top reasons for choosing not to naturalize, cited by Mexican-born green card holders.”

In the late 19th century, when there was such an influx of western Europeans sailing to ports like New York, first- and second-class passengers were free to simply walk into the country at the Hudson or East River piers without inspection.

“Instead, these passengers underwent a cursory inspection aboard ship, the theory being that if a person could afford to purchase a first- or secondclass ticket, they were less likely to become a public charge in America due to medical or legal reasons,” libertyellisfoundation.org explains.

“The Federal government felt that these

more affluent passengers would not end up in institutions, hospitals or become a burden to the state.”

Those having purchased a third-class or steerage ticket spent nearly two weeks in the crowded and dirty bowels of the ship.

“The steerage and third-class passengers were transported from the pier by ferry or barge to Ellis Island where everyone would undergo a medical and legal inspection,” libertyellisfoundation.org adds.

Today, according to the U.S. Government, “A foreign citizen seeking to immigrate generally must be sponsored by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, immediate relative(s) or prospective U.S. employer, and have an approved petition before applying for an immigrant visa.”

An immigrant visa interview is conducted at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s home country, with approval or denial determined at that point. Approved applicants receive a sealed immigrant packet to be presented to U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon arrival in the U.S. A visa typically has a six-month lifespan, and a payment of a USCIS Immigrant Fee is required before entering the U.S. An immigrant becomes naturalized by filing an Application for Naturalization when he or she is 18 or older. They also have to have been a green card holder for at least five years.

(A Permanent Resident Card – green card – allows immigrants to live and

work in the U.S. permanently.) Some people wait years to receive their green card.

While the U.S. continues to rebound economically and development is evident in just about all areas of Cabarrus County, the Brookings Papers on Economic Activity published a year ago point to a reduction in the lowskilled labor force in Mexico and Latin America. So, if they’re needed in their home country and can make a similar wage relative to that of the U.S., they are less likely to come here.

“Whereas the U.S. baby boom came to a halt in the early 1960s, Latin America’s baby boom didn’t abate until two decades later, in the late 1970s,” the Brookings Papers say.

“This means there were more workers coming into working age in Latin America than there were in the U.S. These demographic changes mean the labor market supply of workers in Latin American is shrinking, and we can expect to see far fewer young people immigrating to the U.S.” The number of “young, low-skilled workers will continue to slow until it reaches zero in 2050 – even without the implementation of Trump’s border policies,” they add. “The U.S. government has also intensified immigration enforcement in the interior of the country, which has led to an increase in deportations of noncriminal undocumented immigrants from 116,000 individuals in 2001 to an average of 226,000 individuals per year over 2007 to 2015.”

The Brookings Institution also points to the fact that the undocumented worker population in the U.S. is getting older, saying, “In 1980, Mexican-born individuals in the U.S. were most likely about 22. Today, that number is 40 – and will be almost 70 by 2040.

Looking ahead, the Latin Americanborn population over 40 will grow by 82 percent in the next 15 years, while the under 40 population is projected to shrink by 6 percent.”

As the ages of undocumented individuals increase, we’re looking at more of them eventually needing Medicare or Medicaid because they have no health insurance. Add to that, the numbers of births.

“In 2015, the percentage of women giving birth in the past year was higher among immigrants (7.4 percent) than among the U.S. born (5.8 percent),” Pew Research reports.

Brookings reports that U.S. citizens’ opinions about immigration vary and are often based on political party affiliation. Sixty-three percent feel

that immigrants work hard and bring a certain set of job skills to the table (Democrats). Twenty-seven percent say immigrants infringe on employment, housing and health care (Republican).

Looming on the horizon? A possible border wall that could cost as much as $21.6 billion and the repeal of DACA (The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals).

DACA was introduced by the Obama Administration in 2012. Meant to protect those who entered the U.S. as undocumented minors, it allowed these individuals to remain in this country another two years without fear of deportation and with work permit eligibility. It does not aid them in attaining citizenship here.

“As of 2012, approximately 800,000 individuals were enrolled in the program created by DACA. DACA recipients must pay a fee and undergo an extensive background check every two years. Undocumented immigrants with a criminal background do not qualify for DACA,” Wikipedia says.

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CitizenPath provides interesting insight into what applying for DACA entails – a process that takes five to nine months and results in an employment authorization card (work permit).

• File I-821D (DACA Application); • Receive e-notification about one week later, then a letter in the mail that confirms receipt of your applica- tion two to three weeks after filing; • Receive a biometrics appointment date four to six weeks after filing

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your application; • Go to a biometrics appointment six to eight weeks after filing. (This will include background checks.); • Receive Form I-821D adjudication 10 to 16 weeks after filing – this is your approval or denial.

The DREAM Act (Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act) was the predecessor to DACA. U.S. senators Dick Durbin and Orrin Hatch sponsored the 2001 act that was to aid undocumented minors in

obtaining a conditional residency, then permanent residency. Conditions under the act included entering the U.S. before turning 16; proof of residency since that entrance date; graduation or GED from an American high school; good moral character; and background checks.

For permanent residency, add attendance at an institution of higher learning or at least two years of service in the U.S. military with an honorable discharge. Deportation would be enforced if all conditions were not met.

The DREAM Act went through extensive changes, was reintroduced, voted on and re-voted on without ever passing.

After President Trump took office, he announced his intention to end DACA. He gave Congress until March 5, 2018, to legalize DACA and, when they didn’t, he announced it was “dead.”

However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is allowing Dreamers to renew their DACA status – to reapply for a two-year extension – until further action is taken.

The immigration picture is murky.

Poverty breeds desperation, but those equally as hungry to live in the land of opportunity immigrate through legal channels. Those who are undocumented contribute toward the health of America’s economy, but also tax our country’s welfare and medical systems. As American-born, we cannot understand until we’ve walked in the shoes of others. Still, there are no clear answers. n

Breaking Bread Slow-Cooked Pulled Chicken Tacos (5 Servings)

INGREDIENTS 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs 1 bottle (8 ounces) Ortega Chipotle Taco Sauce 1/2 cup chicken stock 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 package (10 shells) Ortega Good Grains White Corn with Chia Taco Shells, warmed Taco toppings DIRECTIONS In a medium pan, combine the chicken, taco sauce, chicken stock, salt and pepper, and cook on low, covered, approximately two hours or until internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165ËšF. Remove the chicken from the pan and shred using two forks.

Turn the heat to medium-high and reduce the cooking liquid into a thick sauce, cooking three to five minutes and stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and combine the sauce with the shredded chicken. Serve in taco shells with desired taco toppings.

When time is of the essence, look for delicious recipe ingredients that are convenient and easy to prepare while also offering great taste and health benefits.

You’ll find more recipes like this one at cabarrusmagazine.com!

May 2018 11 n

By Kim Cassell

Emily Francis:

Perseverance Personified ASTRID EMILY FRANCIS IS QUICKLY BECOMING A ROCK STAR. THE SUBJECT OF A PEOPLE MAGAZINE ARTICLE IN JANUARY, THEN AN APPEARANCE ON ELLEN IN FEBRUARY, SHE’S PUT W.M. IRVIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ON THE MAP.

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More importantly, Francis has drawn attention to the students there – many of whom have experienced a journey very similar to hers.

Francis was born in Guatemala, a Central American country bordered by Mexico to the north and west, Belize to the northeast, Honduras to the east and El Salvador to the southeast. Having endured dictatorships and civil war, it’s now a democracy that still struggles with poverty, drugs and crime.

The Hispanic family structure is steeped in tradition. It’s the patriarch that works, provides for his family and disciplines his children. Women are the caregivers, focusing on the children, cooking, laundry, ironing, etc.

Francis is the eldest of five, raised by a single mother. “We didn’t own a house and jumped from place to place,” Francis explains. “My mom had her own business selling fruit. I would help her at markets. I would be on one end; she would be on the other end. I am the oldest so I also changed diapers, and fed my brothers and sisters.”

This meant she attended school intermittently at best. Then, when she was 14, her mother made a decision to leave. “My mother thought she would go to the U.S. for a while to make money. We were left in Guatemala, all scattered – two of us here, two there. We really missed each other.

“My mom was undocumented and worked taking care of elderly people. She would send us money for shoes and food, but there was still the fact that we were unhappy, out of balance. People told us, ‘Your mom is going to forget you, she is never going to come back for you,’” Francis says.

Emily Francis has her degrees, awards and childhood photos displayed in her classroom as positive reinforcement for her ESL students.

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Emily Francis reacts to seeing W.M. Irvin Elementary students when she was surprised on “Ellen” in February. While there, she was presented with a check for $100,000 by Hamdi Ulukaya, CEO of Chobani, for the school’s Bilingual Immersion program.

Upon getting word about her children being so unhappy, Francis’ mother came home after spending a year in the U.S. “We built a hut in a neighbor’s back yard made of wood and cardboard,” Francis shares.

“My brother was three and always called me Mom because I was the mother he knew. I learned life skills, but we grew up dreaming about the golden streets in America – jobs, opportunities for school. We watched the TV shows.”

A year later, Francis’ mother decided to go to the U.S. again. People told her to bring her kids. “Smugglers picked up me and my two sisters in November 1992,” Francis says. “The two little ones had a different dad so they stayed. We took little book bags with some photos and little kid things. We traveled for two months – walking, taking carriages through Mexico.

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“On January 23, 1993, we took a plane from Mexico City to New York City. I remember the last placed we stayed before leaving Mexico. There was a picture framed in the house that said, ‘I am the truth, the life, the way.’ It gave me so much hope.”

A stranger played the girls’ father, presenting passports to Customs agents in New York. When they were taken into a small room, they knew something was wrong. “It turned out our passports were illegal,” Francis, then 15, says. “There were hours and hours of questioning, we were crying for Mom. Then we saw the guy who came on the plane with us handcuffed and ankles shackled.”

As luck would have it, Francis’ mother had reconnected with her own mother and sister in the U.S. a few years prior. Those women – documented – walked into the room at the airport,

claimed the girls and promised to take care of them in the U.S. “We got our little fingerprints taken and walked out of the airport. We were given three years to get legal documentation; I got my green card in 1997,” Francis says. “With lawyers, Immigration appointments and a lot of money, I missed a lot of school.

But when I saw the interpreter at the Immigration office, that’s when I was inspired first. She was switching back from one language to another. I wanted to do that!”

Three grades behind, Francis enrolled in public school, but because she was 15 years old she couldn’t be enrolled in middle school. That meant she had to catch up in an environment that didn’t speak Spanish. She checked out a dictionary from the library, staying up late at night to make sure she understood her homework. She faced teachers and classmates that didn’t empathize and treated her like she was stupid when the actual obstacle was English.

“It took me 1 1/2 years to learn English,” Francis shares. “As soon as I passed the test, I could register for core courses and get the credits I needed to graduate from high school. I went to a.m. school, p.m. school, summer school. In Economics, I started reading a book about supply and demand.

I think I read that entire book. It was an amazing moment that I was understanding another language. I got 42 credits; I was able to make it.”

But she didn’t make it. Even after having photos taken of her in her cap and gown, Francis was unable to pass the American History Regents Exam – a requirement in New York State.

“On the last day, I walked into the guidance counselor’s office. She told me to go home, study for the test and come back. But I had given it my all. I kept thinking, ‘Why would you give up on a kid?’ You say, ‘Here, just go and come back.’ What was I going to tell my mom, my brothers and sisters? I couldn’t graduate.”

Francis took a job as a cashier to help her mother pay household bills. It actually benefited her English because she was having conversations with customers. She also found Spanish and English alphabets and words were similar, which helped.

Meanwhile, Francis’ aunt had moved to Cabarrus County and, in 2000, invited her down. “I enrolled at RCCC; it took me six months to get my GED,” she says. “I met so many people like me.”

She got a job at Bass Pro Shops at Concord Mills, but knew she wanted more. She applied with Cabarrus County Schools but didn’t hold out much hope for anything in the classroom. She was shocked when she actually got called in to Mt. Pleasant Elementary School for an interview for a 1st grade teacher’s assistant position.

Francis didn’t feel the interview went well but; however, the teacher whose class she interviewed for was shopping at Bass Pro the next day and got stuck at checkout when the register malfunctioned. Francis went over to help and a happy reunion took place.

The teacher stepped up for Francis with school administration and she was hired in 2004. She spent eight years in that classroom, not just as a teacher but as a student. She found herself learning proper English along with her 1st graders.

One obstacle preventing Francis from becoming certified as a teacher was the Praxis test. Required by the state, it “measures the academic skills and subject-specific content knowledge needed for teaching,” according to the Educational Testing Service (ETS).

She took the test six times – given only in English – before being told by her advisor that she could earn her bachelor’s degree in another area, then return for her masters. Besides earning an Associates degree in Art at RCCC, she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Spanish at UNC Charlotte and a Master’s degree in English as a Second Language (ESL), also at UNC-C.

“I fell in love with Latin American literature – poetry and authors I’d never heard of,” Francis shares. “And during my undergrad, I was able to take graduate courses.”

She proudly displays her degrees, certifications, even photos of herself as a child on a wall of fame in her classroom at W.M. Irvin, where she works as an ESL teacher to 70-plus children. She says it’s to show her students that anything is possible, no

matter where you come from.

Cabarrus County uses the Pull-Out and Push-In models for teaching ESL. “Students in kindergarten, 1st and 5th grade can be pulled out of their class for immersion. When the proficiency level is low, we use Pull-Out. “Language is not learned in isolation.

I look at what content they’re learning in their classroom. The only difference is, I use literature that grabs their attention. Little Red Riding Hood

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with a Spanish twist. They get a lot more opportunity to speak to each other. And I use my Spanish with newcomers.”

Francis uses the Push-In model with Irvin’s 4th graders, going into each classroom and working with the whole classroom, even if only a handful are Spanish.

“Both models are great,” she says.

I think Push-In is most effective.

There’s a negativity in a student getting pulled out, more acceptance in the mainstream classroom.”

What has catapulted Francis at W.M. Irvin is her inclusion of her students’ families at the school. With the language barrier, most Hispanic parents are fearful of coming to their children’s school. They were raised to provide family with a home, food and clothing.

Education was not a priority.

“That’s why we have workshops for our parents,” Francis explains. “It’s about respecting the families, teaching them how the U.S. system works, what

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our expectations are for them. Mom cooks, Dad watches TV, we bring them in and they unite.

“I don’t call it educating a parent. I value their parenting knowledge. I’m providing alternative resources. We honor the parents for what they are.”

An honor came back to Francis in 2016 when she was named Cabarrus County Teacher of the Year. As such, she held the position of teacher liaison to the county’s school board for one year. It gave her the opportunity to provide research to the board about the effectiveness of Irvin’s Bilingual Immersion program. (The board was on the verge of eliminating it.)

She embraces English as this country’s official language but says, “They were expecting results too soon.

Our kids learn Spanish their first five years and then they come here and, boom, they have to speak only English.”

This month, Francis will celebrate Cinco de Mayo with her students and

their families. Spanish food and a festive atmosphere put parents at ease.

So does meeting a Spanish-speaking teacher in a classroom bathed in both American and Spanish cultures.

Francis has seen a dramatic increase in the number of Hispanic parents attending her Spanish-language events.

With their support, she’s emphasizing the need for reading at home, even if it’s in Spanish. It’s all about embracing their culture while learning about another.

With the current state of immigration, Francis worries about the children – especially the ones that have been here a long time and are assimilated.

“Our kids here in the U.S. are having to go back. They’re missing school because they’re getting their passport.

Separating a family is the same thing as a death. They (Hispanic schools) don’t know how to serve them because the kids don’t know how to speak Spanish – only English.” n

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Don’t Ignore the Signs!

Blood vessels may be tiny parts in our body, but they make a huge difference in our health. There are many conditions and diseases that impact blood vessels, such as strokes, Deep Vein Thromboses [DVT], Pulmonary Embolisms [PE], Coronary Artery Disease and Heart Arrhythmias.

In honor of May being National Stroke Awareness Month, an employee of Cannon Pharmacy, Elma, wanted to share her journey and make others aware that it is VITAL to listen to your body’s warning signs.

Elma recalls that after having intense pain and extreme swelling in her leg, she spent 10 days in the hospital and was diagnosed with having a Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism. She was placed on blood thinners, and finally received a diagnosis of May-Thurner Syndrome (a genetic blood-clotting disorder).

Elma relays that those 10 days were filled with “pain, fear and uncertainty,” but was told by her doctor that there was nothing she did to cause it or could have done to prevent it.

Through this journey, she knows she has survived something that many people do not and has gained a new perspective and appreciation for life.

“I have a lifelong and complicated illness that leaves me uncertain, but I don’t have to give up the life I love or the things that make me happy,” she says. “I regret that I ignored my symptoms hoping I would feel better

instead of realizing that I was not feeling normal or well. It is wise to seek care as soon as something does not seem normal. You can be young or old, any body size or any body type.

DO NOT ignore any symptoms.”

As Elma encourages others, listen to

By Amanda Buck

Sponsored by Cannon Pharmacy your body and talk with your health care providers when something does not seem right. If your condition requires a new medication, consult with your pharmacist about use and potential side effects. After all, your life depends on it! n

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Today’s Cinco de Mayo celebrations are held all over the U.S.

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By Kim Cassell

Cinco de Mayo: The Battle of Puebla CINCO DE MAYO – MAY 5 – IS AN IMPORTANT DAY IN MEXICAN HISTORY. DO AMERICANS REALLY KNOW WHY? The Mexican-American War and the country’s own Reform War in the mid1800s left Mexico in deep debt to countries that had provided aid during the conflicts. Benito Juárez – a lawyer and member of the native Zapotec tribe – inherited this debt when he was elected president of Mexico in 1861.

“On July 17, 1861, Mexican President Benito Juárez issued a moratorium in which all foreign debt payments would be suspended for two years,” according to Wikipedia. That didn’t sit well with Britain, Spain and France, which sent naval military to force reparations. While Britain and Spain worked out an agreement with Juárez and Mexico, Napoleon III and France saw an opportunity to expand the French empire into what they would call Latin America. What resulted was a series of battles.

Veracruz was the landing spot for some 6,000 French soldiers led by General Charles Latrille de Lorencez that forced Juárez and his constituents to fall back.

On its way to Mexico City, the French army found itself fighting a Mexican army of about 4,000 – led by General Ignacio Zaragoza – near Puebla de Los Angeles, a small town in east-central Mexico and the site of forts of Loreto and Guadalupe.

Despite being poorly equipped compared to the French, the Mexican army won what would be called the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.

“The battle lasted from daybreak to early evening, and when the French finally retreated they had lost nearly 500 soldiers. Fewer than 100 Mexicans had been killed in the clash,” says history.com.

A Battle of Puebla reenactment depicting Mexican troops against the French

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Area Cinco de Mayo Celebrations CINCO DESSERT TASTING May 4 | 7:30-9:00pm | $12 Hygge Coworking at Camp North End 1776 Statesville Avenue, Charlotte Dessert tasting, complete with Spanish decor, music and games; four Mexicaninspired desserts: Dulce De Leche Donut, Mexican Chocolate Brownie, Tres Leche Cake, Margarita Ice Cream Float TRAP CINCO May 4 | 8:00pm $10 entry online/$15 at the door NC Tavern 8225 University City Blvd., Charlotte The hippest happy hour party in town; two shots of tequila with every ticket purchased DERBY DE MAYO May 5 | 11:00am-7:00pm | Free entry Epicentre 210 East Trade Street, Charlotte Join us for a Kentucky Derby watch party all while celebrating Cinco De Mayo; mint juleps, beer specials FINN FIESTA IN THE VILLAGE May 5 | 12:00noon-11:00pm | $10 Blackfinn Ameripub - Ballantyne 14825 Ballantyne Village Way, #100 Charlotte Margarita tasting, Chihuahua costume contest, taco eating contest, food and drink features, live music

2018 QUEEN CITY CINCO DE MAYO CELEBRATION May 5 | 1:00-5:00pm | Free entry The Carole Hoefener Center 615 East 6th Street, Charlotte Crafts, culture, food, art, vendors; free giveaways, discounts, coupons; free swag bag to the first 100 attendees THE #KINGDAYPARTY CINCO DE MAYO May 5 | 4:00-8:30pm | $10 & up Vault 210 East Trade Street, Charlotte Blend of young professionals, great music and premium cocktails; scenic views of the city from Vault’s rooftop THE MUSIC YARD’S SPRING CONCERT SERIES May 5 | 6:00-11:00pm | Free entry (registration required) The Music Yard 2433 South Boulevard, Charlotte The main act will be Swift Technique.

SouthBound’s Taco Stand and full bar will be open for purchase.

CHARLOTTE’S BIGGEST CINCO DE MAYO PARTY May 5 |10:00pm | Free entry La Revolucion 900 N.C. Music Factory Blvd., Charlotte DJ Locorious, DJ Jimmy, DJ Manyc, DJ Glyde; taco eating contest; $2 tacos, $5 tequila shots, margaritas; complimentary sombreros, glowstick, party favors Source: Eventbrite.com

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Children of Mexican descent take part in Cinco de Mayo.

“A year later, with 30,000 troops, the French were able to defeat the Mexican army, capture Mexico City and install Emperor Maximilian I as ruler of Mexico,” Wikipedia says. “The French victory was itself short-lived, lasting only three years, from 1864 to 1867.”

That’s because, by this time, the Civil War in the U.S. had ended and troops could be sent to Mexico to aid in their fight against the French. Napoleon III didn’t like the prospect of a conflict with the U.S. and initiated a retreat from Mexico in 1866.

“The Mexicans recaptured Mexico City, and Maximilian I was apprehended and executed, along with his Mexican generals,” Wikipedia explains. “On June 5, 1867, Benito Juárez finally entered Mexico City where he installed a new government and reorganized his administration.”

In today’s Mexico, the Battle of Puebla Day or Battle of Cinco de Mayo, as it’s called, is not a national holiday and is scarcely recognized.

Still, all public schools are closed on May 5 and the states of Puebla and Veracruz celebrate it as an official holiday. Festivities include battle

reenactments, parades, food and traditional dress.

“Every year the city (Puebla de Los Angeles) also hosts the Festival Internacional de Puebla, which gathers national and international artists, traditional musicians and dancers,” Wikipedia adds.

In 1863, Cinco de Mayo was celebrated in the U.S. for the first time – in California. Its origins here were to show support of Mexico against French rule. Over the decades, events have grown as a display of Mexican pride, culture and traditions. Today, it’s an opportunity for anyone to enjoy cerveza, tequila, margaritas and traditional food like Mole Pablano, chalupas and chiles en nogada.

Americans like a good party so, Mexican or not, enjoy this annual celebration. There are several parties scheduled for the Charlotte area (see sidebar). It’s a happy event that can be shared among us all. n

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On the Go Concord Native Serves with the U.S. Navy Half a World Away U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Dontre Posey is an operations specialist serving with Commander, Task Force 70, forward-deployed to Yokosuka, Japan. He’s also a Concord native and 2011 Northwest Cabarrus High School graduate.

A Navy operations specialist is responsible for operating the communications, radar and navigation equipment that tracks ships, aircraft and enemy missiles, U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Dontre Posey and communicates tactical information to supervisors and other operators.

Posey is proud to serve in the Pacific and fondly recalls memories of Concord.

“My parents taught me to respect others and to take care of myself,” he says. “It was an easy transition for me being in the Navy because I was taught these values.”

With more than 50 percent of the world’s shipping tonnage and a third of the world’s crude oil passing through the region, the United States has historic and enduring interests in this part of the world. The Navy’s presence in Yokosuka is part of that long-standing commitment, Navy officials explain.

Posey is also proud of advancing in rank. He has junior sailors who he mentors.

He says that it has made him into a better leader.

“I enjoy being stationed here as well as being in the Navy because of the friends I’ve met,” Posey says. “I hope to keep those friends for a lifetime. I really don’t know where I’d be today if it wasn’t for joining the Navy and meeting the people I’ve met.”

Seventh Fleet, which is celebrating its 75th year in 2018, spans more than 124 million square kilometers, stretching from the International Date Line to the India/Pakistan border; and from the Kuril Islands in the north to the Antarctic in the south. Seventh Fleet’s area of operation encompasses 36 maritime countries and 50 percent of the world’s population with between 50 and 70 U.S. ships and submarines, 140 aircraft and approximately 20,000 sailors.

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Headliners Announced for Circle K Speed Street Commemorating the May races at Charlotte Motor Speedway with family-oriented events, the 600 Festival has drummed up Judah & the Lion, Chase Rice, Easton Corbin, Dustin Lynch and Brett Young to perform in uptown Charlotte May 24-26 for the 24th annual Circle K Speed Street presented by Coca-Cola. Tickets may be purchased at 600festival.com.

Performing on the Coca-Cola stage on May 24 at 8:45pm is one of Nashville’s most genre-bending bands, Judah & the Lion. Featuring a new genre of music dubbed Folk Hop, their gold single Take It All Back topped the Alternative radio charts at No. 1. Judah & the Lion were named iHeart Radio’s Best New Alt/Rock Artist at the 2018 iHeart Radio Music Awards.

Easton Corbin appears on the Coca-Cola stage on May 25. Corbin is known for his signature hits, A Little More Country Than That, Roll With It, Lovin’ You Is Fun, and Baby Be My Love Song. His latest top-5 single was A Girl Like You. Co-headlining on May 25 is country music singer and former NASCAR pit crew member, Chase Rice. The Tar Heel native released his sophomore album, Lambs & Lions, to critical acclaim late last year. Rice’s first album, Ignite the Night, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums and No. 3 on the all-genre chart.

Headlining Circle K Speed Street presented by Coca-Cola on May 26 is country star, Dustin Lynch. His latest album, Current Mood, features I’d Be Jealous Too, Seein’ Red and Small Town Boy. Special guest, Brett Young, will capture the hearts of guests starting at 8:00pm.

The newly-named 2018 ACM New Male Vocalist of the Year’s self-titled, goldcertified debut album features Like I Loved You, Sleep Without You and In Case You Didn’t Know.

All these concerts will take place in Romare Bearden Park.

From noon to 8:00pm each day on Tryon Street, all other Circle K Speed Street presented by Coca-Cola’s activities remain free to the public, including access to racing’s brightest stars, musical entertainment, a variety of food and beverage vendors, a kids’ zone and interactive displays from sponsors.

For more information on all five 2018 600 Festival Association events, visit 600festival.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Town of Harrisburg Conducts Flag Contest For the first time in the town’s history, Harrisburg will soon have a flag to serve as a unique icon that represents its people and culture.

Fourteen-year-old Jonathan Andrus proposed the idea of holding a contest to create a town flag during the public comment section of the March Town Council meeting. During his comments, Andrus said he has gotten more than four dozen of his peers’ signatures to support having a town flag.

Town Manager Haynes Brigman announced details of the contest at the Town Council meeting in April and residents are submitting their designs. The Town will accept submissions until June 1. Submitted designs will be reviewed by Town staff, Council members and Andrus. After three rounds of narrowing down submitted designs, residents will be able to vote on the final three. The flag with the most votes will become the official Town of Harrisburg flag.

The winning flag design will be sent to a flag shop for production and will be displayed at Town Hall. For more information, visit harrisburgnc.org/news/townof-harrisburg-flag-contest.

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Cabarrus County Veterans Services Office Relocates to The Old Creamery Cabarrus County Veterans Services Office has relocated to The Old Creamery complex, 363 Church Street N., Suite 180, in Concord. The office operates Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm.

The County selected the site for its first-floor, corner location and convenient, accessible parking options.

It’s located across the breezeway from the Cabarrus County Board of Elections Office, which includes a community room that will serve both departments.

A food pantry is among the services that will benefit from the new location.

Donors and recipients will have the opportunity to park near the door and, with the assistance of staff, conveniently drop off or load items.

The County’s accredited Veterans Services Officers provide veterans and their family members with FREE assistance navigating U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs programs, including Compensation; Veterans pension; Survivors pension; Appeals; Veterans health care; Survivor benefits; Education; Home loan guaranty; Employment; Transportation; Adult and Aging Services; and Senior resources.

For more information about Cabarrus County Veterans Services Office, visitcabarruscounty.us/vets. To schedule an appointment, call 704920-2869.

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The Progressive Storybook Comes to Downtown Concord As families venture to downtown Concord, they will find a new activity being offered absolutely free.

A story walk displayed in business windows along Union Street lets visitors read Bear Sees Colors, a children’s book by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman, and learn literacy tips. The page-by-page display begins at Downtown Donuts (21 Union Street N.) and ends at the Chocolatier Barrucand (1 Union Street S.).

To get a souvenir of your interactive adventure, families are encouraged to first visit the Concord Library (27 Union Street N.) or Downtown Donuts and pick up a bookmark. Walk along Union Street to read the entire book and collect color-coded stickers along the way from locations highlighted on the back of the bookmark.

After reading the entire book and collecting at least one sticker of each color (five colors total), return to the library for a special sticker to complete your personal bookmark. The Cabarrus County Public Library System plans to keep readers engaged with new book selections and display locations that update several times a year.

The Progressive Storybook is a co-sponsored project of the CDDC, the Cabarrus County Library and participating downtown businesses.

Concord’s JCPenney Receives Company’s Highest Distinction

JCPenney Company Inc. honored its top performing stores with its Founder’s Award at a special ceremony. With more than 870 JCPenney stores across the country, General Manager Sabrina Girgenti was one of 90-plus store leaders recognized for outstanding performance in 2017.

Marvin R. Ellison, chairman and chief executive officer; Joe McFarland, executive vice-president and chief customer officer; and Tony Hurst, senior vicepresident of stores were in attendance to recognize the leaders’ achievements.

“I’m proud of our dedicated associates at JCPenney in the Carolina Mall who received this special recognition,” Hurst says. “The Founder’s Award is the company’s highest honor, recognizing top-performing leaders that significantly contribute to the success of JCPenney and provide customers with an unmatched shopping experience. We look forward to another exceptional year serving the customers in Concord.”

The Company’s Founder’s Award is presented to general and district managers for leading teams that deliver strong results in the areas of financial performance, customer and client service, and business expertise. n

Have a business announcement? Added a new hire?

Hosting a community event?

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

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.

ABBY, a 41-pound Boxer mix about three years old, was a stray surrendered to the shelter with her puppy. You can tell she has had a rough life. Her ear has been ripped, her leg was possibly broken at one point, but she still is extremely gentle and sweet; she loves to cuddle. She’s not food aggressive, sleeps through the night on the floor next to you and is doing very well with potty training. She gets along with other dogs but is very curious about cats, so we would suggest no cats in the home.

Abby is spayed, microchipped and upto-date on vaccines.

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

ANGEL is a 12-year-old Collie (maybe Spaniel?) mix. This beauty is a sweet, calm girl that would be an asset to anyone’s home. Even at her age, she does not act like an older dog. Angel would be great as a therapy dog.

Currently in foster care, please email CabarrusHumaneSociety@gmail.com or call us at 704-784-7387 to meet her.

Angel is spayed, microchipped and upto-date on vaccines.

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

KOBE is a male Chi-Weenie, about seven months old. This sweet boy is full of energy and loves attention and being held. He has a cherry eye that needs to be surgically removed at a cost of $200 to $300.

Applications for Kobe’s adoption are being accepted as well as donations for his surgery. Donations may be be sent through PayPal or email mtpleasantanimalrescue@aol.com for more information.

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

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MAY SELF-GUIDED HISTORIC WALKING TOUR Daily Downtown Concord • Take a step back in time with the touch of a button when you download the Concord Downtown NC App to your Bluetooth-enabled device.

• More than 50 historic sites; follow along at your leisure.

• 704-784-4208; concorddowntown.com A VET TOGETHER May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 • 9:00-11:00am Carm’s Cafe 42 Union Street S., Concord • Join Cabarrus Veterans Coalition for free coffee and conversation.

• 704-960-4394 NORTH CAROLINA IN WORLD WAR I TRAVELING EXHIBIT Through May 12 • Free • Tuesdays-Saturdays: 9:00am-5:00pm Reed Gold Mine 9621 Reed Mine Road, Midland • North Carolinians served in all the major battles of the Western Front in 1918. Join us to learn about North Carolina’s role during World War I. • 704-721-4653; reed@ncdcr.gov RUN KANNAPOLIS - JIGGY WITH THE PIGGY 5K May 1 • 6:30pm 150 N. Research Campus Drive, Kannapolis • In conjunction with the Jiggy with the Piggy, a KCBS-sanctioned barbecue competition • 704-920-4343; runkannapolis.com JIGGY WITH THE PIGGY May 3-5 • Downtown Kannapolis • Join us for this free, family-friendly event featuring a KCBS-sanctioned barbecue competition, live concerts, carnival rides, arts & crafts, movies and fireworks!

• jiggywiththepiggy.com MOVIES IN THE PARK May 4 • Sunset • Free Harrisburg Park 191 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg • Screenings of family-friendly feature films on a huge inflatable screen. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to relax, and arrive early to enjoy free popcorn and children’s activities before the show.

• 704-455-0724; smarble@harrisburgnc.org

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YOU CAN’T TAKE IT WITH YOU May 4, 5, 11, 12 • 8:00pm May 6, 13 • 2:30pm • $20 Old Courthouse Theatre 49 Spring Street N.W., Concord • A madcap, idealistic comedy that reinforces the idea that you can only live life to the fullest by doing whatever makes you happy.

• 704-788-2405; info@octconcord.org PIEDMONT FARMERS MARKET May 5, 12, 19, 26 • 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; piedmont-farmersmarket.com JAZZ SERIES May 6, 13 • 1:00-3:00pm • Free Veterans Park 119 N. Main Street, Kannapolis • Jazz music will fill the air for everyone to enjoy.

• Brian Burton Trio on 5/6; Booker Wilson Band on 5/13 • kannapolisnc.gov CABARRUS CHAMBER BUSINESS AFTER HOURS May 8 • 5:00-6:30pm Hilbish Ford 2600 S. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis • Premier networking event for business professionals • Free for Chamber members; nonmember guests are welcome to attend up to three times.

• Alison Paladino: 704-782-4000, x101; apaladino@cabarrus.biz ADVANCE DIRECTIVE WORKSHOP May 10 • 5:00-7:00pm • Free Concord Library 27 Union Street N. Concord • Review and complete your North Carolina healthcare power of attorney and living will forms.

• Have your advance directive forms notarized free of charge.

• Learn what to do with your completed advance directive.

• CarolinasHealthCare.org/ YourCareYourChoice

THURSDAYS ON MAIN EVENING: JIM QUICK & COASTLINE May 10 • 6:00-9:00pm • Free Veterans Park 119 N. Main Street, Kannapolis • Performances by various musicians – bluegrass to classical to country and rock music. Held under the oak trees, dinner will be available or attendees can bring their own picnic.

• kannapolisnc.gov RUN KANNAPOLIS - RHYTHM & RUN 5K May 11 • 6:30pm Downtown Kannapolis • An annual fundraiser event for the N.C. Music Hall of Fame & Museum • runkannapolis.com 2ND SATURDAY OPEN STUDIOS AT CLEARWATER ARTIST STUDIOS May 12 • 10:00am-4:00pm 223 Crowell Drive N.W., Concord • Several art studios on premises will be open with resident artists present to talk to, watch work, etc.

• 704-784-9535; clearwaterartists.com KANNAPOLIS CRUISE-IN May 12 • 1:00-7:00pm • Free N.C. Research Campus, Kannapolis • This family-fun event brings out thousands of show cars and spectators.

• 704-932-3808; cabarrusevents.org ROCKIN’ THE BURG CONCERT SERIES May 12 • 6:30pm • Free Harrisburg Park 191 Sims Parkway, Harrisburg • Featuring Kids in America - ultimate ‘80s tribute band; food trucks; beer & wine garden • 704-455-0724; smarble@harrisburgnc.org SPRING INTO ARTS FESTIVAL May 12 • 10:00am-4:00pm • Free Downtown Concord • Showcases and promotes the visual and performing arts • Enjoy the juried art show, musical entertainment, locally crafted beer and wine, food and a children’s area.

• 704-784-4208; concorddowntown.com

THE CABARRUS QUILTERS GUILD May 14 • Doors open 6:00pm Forest Hill United Methodist Church 265 Union Street N., Concord • Meet & Greet/refreshments: 6:15-6:45pm • Speaker: Victory Junction Camp • cabarrusquiltersguild.org VETERANS BRUNCH May 14 • 10:30am Mt. Pleasant Senior Center 8615 Park Drive, Mt. Pleasant • All military veterans and their spouses are invited.

• Call 704-920-3484 to RSVP. HAULERS ON UNION PARADE & FAN FEST May 17 • 5:00-8:30pm • Free Downtown Concord • More than 30 MONSTER Energy NASCAR Cup Series car haulers will make their way down Union Street en route to Charlotte Motor Speedway.

• The Tim Clark Band, activities for children, food, giveaways, race cars on display and so much more • concorddowntown.com TACO TUESDAY COOKING CLASS May 17 • 6:00-7:30pm • $10 May 19 • 10:00-11:30am • $10 Cabarrus Health Alliance 300 Mooresville Road, Kannapolis • Well, class is not on a Tuesday and will be held after Cinco de Mayo, but there is always a reason to enjoy Mexican and other Latino-inspired dishes.

• Classes are open to all adults and children ages five and older.

• To register or for more information: 704-920-1324; Meghan.Charpentier@CabarrusHealth.org THURSDAYS ON MAIN LUNCH May 17, 24, 31 • 11:30am-1:00pm • Free Veterans Park 119 N. Main Street, Kannapolis • Performances by various musicians – bluegrass to classical to country and rock music. Held under the oak trees, lunch will be available or attendees can bring their own picnic.

• kannapolisnc.gov NORTH CAROLINA EDUCATION LOTTERY 200 May 18 • 6:00pm 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 in 200 miles of exciting, tailgateflying action.

• Kids 13 and under get in free!

• 800-455-3267; charlottemotorspeedway.com

GUIDED HISTORIC WALKING TOUR WITH MICHAEL EURY May 19 • 10:30-11:45am • $10 Meet at CDDC office 30 Cabarrus Avenue W., Concord • Concord was ground zero for a plethora of events that shaped life not only for locals, but also for those throughout the South.

• Advance reservations needed • 704-784-4208; concorddowntown.com MONSTER ENERGY ALL-STAR RACE May 19 • 6:20pm Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • The stars of the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series battle under the lights.

• Kids 13 and under are just $10 for grandstand seats.

• 800-455-3267; charlottemotorspeedway.com RACE SHOP TOUR May 19, 26 • 9:00am-1:00pm • $49 • Sit back and relax as you travel from shop to attractions with no worries about traffic, directions or parking.

• No lunch stop. Please eat before tour begins and/or bring snacks for the bus ride.

• Departure locations: Tim Flock Camping Office; 4th Turn Campground Bathhouse; front of zMAX Dragway – Main Tower entrance • 800-455-3267; charlottemotorspeedway.com SPECTRUM POLE NIGHT ARCA GENERAL TIRE 150 May 24 • 7:10pm Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • Three-round knockout qualifying to decide which Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series drivers will “go” and who will “go home” prior to the legendary CocaCola 600.

• Kids 13 and under get in free!

• 800-455-3267; charlottemotorspeedway.com LAPS & TAPS May 25 • 12:00-4:00pm • $49 (Adults 21+) zMax Dragway 6570 Bruton Smith Boulevard, Concord • Tour two local breweries – Cabarrus Brewing Company and Twenty-Six Acres Brewing Company – before taking laps around the Charlotte Motor Speedway track.

• Tour includes transportation, escort, two brewery stops, behind-the-scenes tour of breweries, souvenir glasses, four beer tastings and laps around the track.

• 704-455-3223; charlottemotorspeedway.com

MOVIES IN THE PARK: CARS 3 May 25 • 8:30pm • Free Village Park 700 W. C Street, Kannapolis • Blankets, lawn chairs, picnics/coolers permitted; concessions available. Children under 18 must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

• kannapolisnc.gov OUTLAW SHOWDOWN May 25 • 6:00pm The Dirt Track - Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • Drivers will compete for prize money and prestige in winged, 850-horsepower open-wheel, sprint cars.

• Dirt Track must have a two-parent, notarized waiver completed for minors ages 14-17 in pit area. Ages 13 and under not admitted in the pits.

• 800-455-3267; charlottemotorspeedway.com ALSCO 300 May 26 • 1:00pm • Tickets $25+ Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • NASCAR XFINITY Series regulars battle against NASCAR Cup Series drivers.

• Kids 13 and under are free!

• 704-455-4479; charlottemotorspeedeway.com SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY May 26 • 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; concorddowntown.com COCA-COLA 600 May 27 • 6:00pm • Tickets $49+ Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • Eli Young Band pre-race concert; salute to our military heroes before the 59th running of the Coca-Cola 600 • Kids 13 and under are just $10 for grandstand seats.

• 800-455-3267; charlottemotorspeedway.com

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At a Glance 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 Wells Fargo Page 15 400 Ashdale Court, Concord, NC 28027 1501 S. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis, NC 28083 50 Union Street, Concord, NC 28025 984 Concord Parkway N., Concord, NC 28027 5075 Highway 49S., Harrisburg, NC 28075 704 N. Cannon Blvd., Kannapolis, NC 28083 216 West Avenue, Kannapolis, NC 28081 868 Church Street, Concord, NC 28025

Candy Companies Page 31

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

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Erectile Dysfunction

Print & Technology Services

Attention Viagra and Cialis Users Page 23 1-844-389-7687

Event Venues Chez Francois Music Hall 9 Union Street N., Suite 200 Concord, NC 28025 980-439-6602 www.chezfrancoismusichall.com

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Modern Impressions 5029 West W.T. Harris Boulevard Charlotte, NC 28269 800-840-2554 www.modernimpressions.com

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Racing Events

Funeral Homes

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

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Restaurants

12115 University City Boulevard Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-247-1722

73 & Main Page 3 1467 N. Main Street, Mt. Pleasant, NC 28124 704-436-2050 www.73andMain.com

13575 Broadway Av., Midland, NC 28107 704-888-5571

Chez Francois The Creperie

Wilkinson Funeral Home 100 Branchview Drive N.E. Concord, NC 28025 704-786-3168 www.wilkinsonfuneralhome.com Cannon Pharmacy 760 Cabarrus Avenue W. Concord, NC 28027 704-788-6337 1706 S. Cannon Blvd.

Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-933-6337 1402 N. Cannon Blvd.

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

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9 Union Street N., Concord, NC 28025 980-439-6602 www.chezfrancoisthecreperie.com

El Vallarta Bar & Grill

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1480 Concord Parkway N., Suite 305 Concord, NC 28025 704-792-2020 www.ElVallartaNC.com

Technology Providers

Pharmacies

Commercial & Residential Glass Services Kannapolis Glass & Glazing 2002 S. Ridge Avenue Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-938-5613 www.kannapolisglass.com

Michael A. Anderson Photography Page 9 38 Union Street S., Concord, NC 28025 704-701-5908 mike@michael-a-anderson.com www.michael-a-anderson.com

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

Cleaning Services – Office Blue-J Serving Cabarrus County and Greater Charlotte Metro 704-589-3148 www.bluejcleaning.com

Photographers

BCBS - Dental Charlotte Braces Page 2 10040 Edison Square Dr. N.W., Suite 104 Concord, NC 28027 704-810-1308 www.charlottebraces.com/meet-dr-matthewgidaly

Hartsell Funeral Homes Page 22 460 Branchview Dr. N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-1161

1-800-946-9524 www.wellsfargo.com Lang’s Chocolates www.langscaramels.com

Dentists/Dental Services

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AT&T 1-866-930-3970 www.att.com

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Theatres – Live Old Courthouse Theatre Page 3 49 Spring Street N.W., Concord, NC 28025 704-788-2405 www.octconcord.com

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