October '16

OCTOBER 2016

The Vote 2016: Meet the Candidates

Healthy Living: Medicare Enrollment 101

Cabarrus Business: On the Go

Events Calendar: What’s Happening?

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October 2016 3 n

Word on the Street October 2016 Volume 16 n Issue 10 President Pam Tolen

Managing Editor/Art Direction Kim Cassell Advertising Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle Elaine Marlowe Contributing Writers Kim Cassell Jason Huddle Contributing Photographers Michael A. Anderson Photography Karen Goforth

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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Rachel Fesko

Publisher Jason Huddle

I’m proud to be an American, no matter who resides in the White House. I have the utmost respect for anyone who has served in our military and I believe that one of the ways you show that respect is by exercising the right many have fought and died to preserve – your right to vote.

By now, you probably already know whom you want for president. But what many fail to realize is that it’s not the presidency that will most directly affect your daily life. People need to educate themselves on the races from the state level on down; local politicians directly affect how much of your money will come out of your pocket and where that money will go.

They will choose what services you may need and get funding. They will be your advocate at the state and federal levels to ensure the betterment of life for all their constituents.

It is for this reason that we have resurrected the idea to interview each of the candidates from the Cabarrus County School Board races, all the way up to the U.S. Senate contest. We asked all candidates the same questions and have printed their answers – verbatim – only editing for brevity.

Unlike some of my journalistic colleagues, I don’t believe that because I buy ink by the barrel I have the right to tell you how I think you should vote. Rather, we, as a staff, agreed that we can put the information out there and allow you, our readers, to make up your own minds for whom to cast your vote. The important thing is that you do just that – no matter which side of the aisle you lean towards.

At the end of the day, we all want what’s best for our country, our state and our communities. Do your job as a citizen and vote. There’s no excuse not to.

Sincerely,

Jason Huddle

This Issue...

Your Vote, Your Voice 6

Elections 2016: Meet the Candidates Impacting Cabarrus County

18

Paw Prints: Cabarrus’ Adoptable Cats

19

Breaking Bread: Chef Bailes Dishes

27

Cabarrus Business: On the Go

31

Healthy Living: Medicare 101

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By Kim Cassell

Board of Elections The Cabarrus County Board of Elections is located at 369 Church Street N., in Concord, providing information about voter registration, precinct polling places, absentee voting, etc.

The general election takes place on November 8 and polling places will be open from 6:30am to 7:30pm.

The last day to register to vote or change your address is October 14 at 5:00pm; one-stop voting begins October 20 at 8:30am, ending on November 5 at 1:00pm; the last day to request an absentee ballot is November 1 at 5:00pm; and all absentee ballots are due on November 8 by 5:00pm.

Call 704-920-2860​or send an email to elections@cabarruscounty.us for more information.

Source: Cabarrus County Board of Elections

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Meet the Candidates: 2016 “Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education.”

- Franklin D. Roosevelt

In this all-important election year, Cabarrus Magazine reached out to political candidates running for positions that impact our county.

Our approach was a little different this time around, in that questions pertaining to the state of our nation in general were posed, we well as prevailing topics that concern each of us as citizens: terrorism and immigration.

These Q&A sessions make for valuable tools in familiarizing each of us about who will potentially run our state and local government, and our school system, before we place our vote. We’re also providing a website, facebook page or email address so that readers can delve even more deeply into candidates’ goals and convictions.

UNITED STATES SENATE Six-year Term

Richard Burr Age: 60 Party Affiliation: Republican (Incumbent) www.burr.senate.gov CM: Do you believe the economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago?

Richard Burr If not, what would you do to change it?

Burr: This has been the slowest economic expansion in nearly 70 years.

While the unemployment rate appears low, it hides the harsh truth that many Americans are so discouraged that they’ve just given up looking for work.

Those Americans who do have jobs are frustrated to watch their paychecks stay the same while their cost of living continues to go up. Over the last eight years, the typical American household has seen their household income shrink by almost $1,700 when you account for inflation.

I believe turning our economy around and creating jobs involves several crucial ingredients. First, we must reform the federal income tax system. Our current system is unfair, punishes work and is overly complex. We also need to make it easier – not harder – in America to start a business and to hire and keep workers.

That means reining in the regulations that are needlessly hurting our economy and jobs with higher costs and red tape.

We need to ensure employers have an educated, competitive workforce from which to draw talent, and that means having better schools and career development opportunities at all levels.

It also means making college and day care more affordable so that North Carolinians are able to pursue career opportunities.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to do to make our society safer?

Burr: As chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I am briefed regularly on the growing number of terrorist threats to our nation. The threats to America are real, and the enemies we face are unlike any that we have seen. Terrorists have no regard for the rules of war, the nuances of diplomacy or the lives of innocents.

The current policy of ‘containing ISIS’ has failed. We must devise and execute a comprehensive strategy that clearly identifies our enemies and the resources required to eliminate their capabilities and intent to attack. We also need to take the fight to where the terrorists recruit and train so that they cannot bring the war to our shores. And we must equip our law enforcement and intelligence community with the tools they need to thwart terrorist plots and keep America safe.

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Burr: While immigration reform is a divisive issue, there are common sense changes that I think we can all agree on.

For example, we need to make sure that job vacancies are filled by Americans first, and when farmers and employers cannot fill positions with U.S. citizens, we need to improve the system that allows legal, noncitizen workers to come here to work temporarily. We also need to secure our borders and make sure that those who commit crimes are not able to stay in the United States.

Burr: Ensuring a strong national defense is the federal government’s number one responsibility, and at no other time in our history has the fulfillment of this responsibility been as critical. If re-elected, I will continue working to ensure our military, law enforcement and intelligence professionals have the support, tools and leadership they need to defend us.

I have a strong record of reaching across the aisle and delivering real results for North Carolina. In 2013, I worked with senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Angus King (I-ME) to write and pass the Bipartisan Student Loan Certainty Act, a law that has allowed college students to take advantage of today’s low interest rates, saving them $46 billion in student loan costs over the last three years.

In 2014, I partnered with Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) to pass the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act. And in 2015, I worked with Senator Claire McCaskill (D-MO) to write and pass legislation that strengthened the National Sex Offender Registry.

But my work is far from done. Solving the serious problems we face requires leadership and an ability to work together. As the senator for North Carolina, I will continue working in a bipartisan fashion to restore the strength of our economy, to expand opportunity for all Americans and to keep our country safe.

Deborah Ross

Age: 53 Party Affiliation: Democrat www.deborahross.com CM: Do you believe the economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago?

If not, what would you do to Deborah Ross We need a legal immigration change it? process that is understandable Ross: For many, the economy is in better and consistent – that is the only way we shape than it was eight years ago during can ensure the legal process for coming the economic crisis, but even today, to America is followed. far too many North Carolinians work hard but are unable to gain economic CM: Please tell our readers why you security. We need to grow the economy should get their vote. and make sure it works for all of us, "

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not just those with the most money and advantages. To do that, we need to do three important things.

First, we need to make sure working people can earn more, and keep more of what they earn. When I was in the State House, I passed legislation to return taxes to working people and voted to raise the minimum wage. That money is then invested back into our economy, which helps us grow jobs and support businesses.

Second, we need to end tax breaks for companies that ship jobs overseas. We can use that money to train workers and invest in companies that create jobs here at home.

this state that don’t have access to the Internet. Improving our infrastructure creates jobs and makes our state more attractive to businesses.

Third, we need to invest in infrastructure. That’s an issue I worked on in the State House and as an attorney, and one I’ll work on in the U.S. Senate. Our water and sewer systems, roads, bridges and highways are crumbling – and there are parts of

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to do to make our society safer?

Ross: Nothing is more important to me than keeping our families safe. We need to destroy ISIS where they are, and prevent them from attacking us here at home. This starts with declaring war on them.

To defeat ISIS we need to increase the quality and quantity of our air strikes; increase the number of well-armed allies on the ground; and eliminate their finances. To stay ahead of ISIS, we must make sure our law enforcement officers and members of our intelligence community have all the tools they need at their disposal.

And, finally, we cannot continue to allow suspected terrorists to buy guns.

My opponent has voted against closing this loophole. I will work to keep guns out of the hands of suspected terrorists.

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Ross: Our immigration system is broken, making our country less safe, holding back our nation’s economy and forcing millions to live in the shadows.

I support the sensible, bipartisan comprehensive immigration reform bill that passed the Senate with 68 votes more than two years ago. It would have required undocumented immigrants to pay a penalty, pass a background check, learn English and pay taxes. It would have also helped North Carolina’s farmers by ensuring they have a legal, stable and reliable workforce, which is why the North Carolina Farm Bureau supported the bill.

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In the Senate, I will work to pass tough and fair comprehensive immigration

reform that secures our borders, makes our country safer, grows our economy and offers families an earned path to citizenship.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Ross: Washington is not working for the people of North Carolina and we need a change. I hear it every day from voters I meet on the road.

a job that pays a fair wage, see the doctor when you need to, send your kids to college when they’re grown and save for retirement.

Sean Haugh

Age: 56 Party Affiliation: Libertarian www.seanhaugh.com CM: Do you believe the economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago?

Sean Haugh If not, what would you do to change it?

Haugh: The economy is certainly I’ve talked with people who had good different than it was eight years ago. jobs, jobs they took pride in. They were Prices have risen considerably, while tough jobs, but they paid the bills and wages stagnate for many people. put food on the table. But then those However, there are many new kinds of jobs got shipped overseas or downsized, or their money just doesn’t go as far as it jobs that give people more freedom to make money. used to.

I’ve heard from folks who’ve taken on extra hours to make ends meet, but they’re still living paycheck to paycheck.

They aren’t able to keep enough of what they earn.

And I’ve met people who have worked hard their whole lives, but are putting off retirement because they don’t know if they or their families can afford it.

They don’t know if Social Security will get cut or Medicare will get privatized.

And they don’t have the money to take that gamble.

And if those hard times weren’t enough on their own, we have politicians who make things worse. They give huge tax cuts to millionaires and special tax breaks for corporations that ship our jobs away. They try to give Medicare to insurance companies at the expense of our seniors. And then they turn around and say it will somehow help us.

North Carolina deserves better representation. I got into public service because I care about people. As your next U.S. senator, I can promise you that I will put you first. I will work for you and your families. And I will fight every day to make sure that if you work hard and play by the rules, then you’ll have the security and the opportunity to find

I want to drastically reduce the size and scope of government so that you can keep more of the money you earn.

Currently, all government consumes 38 percent of the Gross Domestic Product. The federal government alone accounts for 22.5 percent. Reducing those excessive numbers means more money is kept by those who earned it, which will improve the quality of life for everyone.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to make our society safer?

Haugh: We must stop all war! Our warfare in the Middle East has destabalized the entire region. One of the main sources of weapons and material for ISIS are those we left behind in Iraq or have been more recently giving to so-called ‘moderate Syrian rebels’ or other allies in the region. More war and more bombing is only making matters worse. We should have noticed by now that we cannot bomb our problems out of existence.

This is the main reason I am running for U.S. Senate, to stop this insane and counterproductive war. We can achieve a diplomatic solution that ostracizes "

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ISIS and their allies without continued warfare. We could also do a better job sharing intelligence with our allies to prevent ISIS-inspired attacks in our own countries.

With or without international cooperation, the first thing we must do is stop flooding the region with weapons and other military aid, and bring our troops home. War has failed. Only through peace can we find a solution.

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Haugh: Our war is also at the root of the imbalances of immigration. Our war on drugs and our meddling in the affairs of other nations are responsible for a lot of the instability in our neighbors to the south, particularly Mexico and Honduras. If we stopped the war on drugs, we could immediately break the power of the violent Mexican drug cartels and help put Mexico back on the path to peace and prosperity. That

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would give more people the incentive to build a life for themselves and their families at home.

I personally favor open borders. America is enriched and made stronger by immigration, just as my family on both sides came here in the late 19th century.

Even so, I do think it is important to recognize we currently have imbalances in the number of people moving to America, and to address the basic reasons why people are so motivated to leave their home countries.

politicians what you want. I give voters the chance to tell our government that we want peace, prosperity and freedom, not more war, more debt and more regulation.

UNITED STATES CONGRESS – 8th DISTRICT Two-year Term

Richard Hudson

Age: 44 Party Affiliation: Republican (Incumbent) www.hudson.house.gov CM: Please tell our readers CM: Do you believe the why you should get their economy is in better shape vote. than it was eight years ago?

Haugh: Whether I win this Richard Hudson If not, what would you do to election or not, every single change it? vote for me counts. The more votes I Hudson: As representative of the Eighth receive, the louder the message you are District, my top three priorities are jobs, sending to both the Democrats and the jobs and jobs. We have a tremendous Republicans that you want them to be opportunity to accelerate economic more peaceful, to be more Libertarian. growth, but we have to get several things Your ballot is your way to tell the right and ensure our government creates an economically friendly environment that empowers businesses to grow and hire people. Here are my principles for job and economic growth: • End Washington’s addiction to spending; • Get big government out of the way by cutting unnecessary red tape; • Invest in the American people to get this economy moving.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to do to make our society safer?

Hudson: Our government’s first responsibility is to keep Americans safe – and that’s exactly what I’m focused on doing. To this end, my legislation to protect our country from the threat of radical Islamic terrorists posing as refugees from Syria and Iraq passed the House of Representatives with an overwhelming bipartisan, veto-proof majority. While our hearts break for these refugees, our first priority must be

defending America – and, as far as I’m concerned, if we don’t know who you are, you are not getting into our country.

In addition, I’ve fought to keep dangerous terrorists – including key architects of the September 11 attacks – locked up at Guantanamo Bay. President Obama is focused on closing Gitmo, transferring and releasing prisoners and putting our security at risk. We don’t want these terrorists in our backyard or in other countries that lack top-notch security to keep them from returning to the battlefield. That’s why I authored, and the House of Representatives passed, legislation to prohibit the administration from transferring any detainees out of Gitmo.

The most important step is for the president to admit that his strategy to deal with ISIS is failing. America needs a commander-in-chief who will put forth a comprehensive, long-term plan that will successfully degrade and destroy this enemy.

We must empower our military and law enforcement agencies with the tools they need to keep us safe, and we must secure our borders first so that we can make intelligent decisions as to who and what come into our country.

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Hudson: During any consideration of immigration legislation, I have three key principles that I plan to stick to.

1. Any effort to fix our immigration

system must first start with securing our borders as part of a common sense, step-by-step approach that focuses on a long-term solution.

2nd Amendment rights, reduce taxes, rein in wasteful government spending, protect our homeland and create jobs.

That’s the only way we’re going to turn this country around, and that’s why I’m asking for your vote on November 8.

Thank you and God bless.

2. Any reforms must contribute to the American economy and enrich hardworking Americans. Part of staying competitive is making sure that we’re attracting the best and brightest people from around the world. That’s the American tradition, and it’s why we need immigration reform that reflects the needs of our employers and job creators.

Thomas Mills 3. Any reforms must recognize that we are a nation of immigrants, but we are also a nation of laws. Granting amnesty to illegal immigrants would be an affront to the millions of legal immigrants and to the citizens of our great country. We cannot continue to have an immigration system that rewards people who break our laws while punishing those who want to follow them.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Hudson: I will continue to fight for a smaller, more limited federal government that empowers the economy in North Carolina to grow and provide good-paying jobs for folks across the state.

I’m running for re-election to continue to be a conservative, common sense voice for the people of North Carolina’s 8th District. I’ll continue to protect our

Thomas Mills

Age: 53 Party Affiliation: Democrat www.thomasmillsnc.com CM: Do you believe the economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago?

If not, what would you do to change it?

Mills: Yes. Over the last eight years we’ve seen unemployment almost cut in half, the value of the Stock Market double, the cost of energy has gone down and now wages are finally beginning to rise. But there is still a lot of work to be done, and securing jobs in North Carolina’s 8th District must be a priority of our elected officials. Much of our infrastructure and roads either need to be rebuilt or maintained, and we need to provide high-speed Internet to rural America. Not only are these vital to the economic growth of the district, but the jobs will help rebuild America’s middle class.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to do to make our society safer?

Mills: We need to continue to work with our international allies to isolate "

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and neutralize the threat of non-state actors abroad. We must fix our broken immigration system so we better understand who is coming in and out of this country and we can stop terrorism before it arrives. In efforts to prevent tragedies like those in Chattanooga and San Bernardino, background checks need to be in place to screen gun purchasers.

N.C. STATE SENATE – 36th DISTRICT Two-year Term

Paul R. Newton

Age: 56 Party Affiliation: Republican www.newton4senate.com CM: Do you believe the economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago?

If not, what would you do to Paul Newton change it?

CM: What is your stance on Newton: After a slow start under immigration reform? If you feel Democrat Governor Bev Perdue, our changes are needed, how would you local and state economies are far better go about making them? off today after five years of Republican Mills: It is unfortunate to have 11 leadership and successful economic million people living in the country development pursuits. For example: illegally. We need to integrate them 1. North Carolina’s unemployment rate into society to get people paying taxes has dropped from 10.3% to 4.9%. and participating in everyday civic life.

2. North Carolina has gone from the Our government must work to create highest taxed state in the Southeast to a standardized pathway to green cards one of the lowest taxed states. for people already living in the U.S. 3. When Republicans gained the We must support the laws that are in majority in the Legislature, they the books to deport criminals and inherited a $2.25-billion budget deficit. make sure ICE (U.S. Immigration and Today, North Carolina enjoys a $425Customs Enforcement) is fully funded million budget surplus. to carry out their jobs. Additionally, 4. The Legislature has increased state we need to further crack down on investments in public education by employers who hire illegal immigrants. more than $1 billion since 2011.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Mills: We have a broken political system that puts special interests ahead of the people of this country. As a congressman I will always put the interests of the people of the 8th District first. I will work to improve and modernize our nation’s infrastructure, raise the minimum wage, provide family medical leave and equal pay for equal work. I will reach across the aisle to find ways to make Congress work again. We have big problems facing us and we need to fix Washington before we can address those problems. We won’t fix Congress if we keep sending the same people to Washington. It’s time for new leadership.

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The impact of these improvements?

1. North Carolina has had the fastest growing economy in the nation since 2013.

2. North Carolina has added more than 300,000 new jobs since 2013.

3. CEOs ranked North Carolina the third best state in the nation for business in a poll done for the May issue of Chief Executive Magazine.

4. Forbes magazine ranked North Carolina second in its most recent annual Best States for Business.

Under Republican policies, North Carolina is better off. Most importantly, Republican leadership has laid the groundwork for sustainable future growth.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under

attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to make our society safer?

Newton: Radical Islamists and other terrorists have a world view that is incompatible with the freedoms we enjoy here in the United States. For example, a radical Islamist will never agree to assimilate within a culture that permits freedom of religion, freedom of speech and one that works hard to ensure equal rights for all. Recognition of this problem leads to an effective solution.

We must take seriously early indicators of antisocial behaviors. The current administration’s policy to usher in potential terrorists without proper screening – even without notifying the governors of the states where the refugees/immigrants are placed – defies common sense and violates the higher duty to keep America safe.

Domestic ‘terrorism’ is typically a product of poor mental health. Our mental health system needs to be improved to permit early diagnosis and treatment.

Removing firearms from law-abiding citizens is not the answer. The root cause of terrorism is never the firearm.

Just look at recent examples of terrorist use of vehicles, knives and bombs as weapons across the globe.

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Newton: First, we must secure our border. An unabated flow of undocumented immigrants precludes a rational conversation about those who are already here. Many Americans will not consider immigration reform until they feel national sovereignty is protected. No American wants to lose the things that made this country great.

Does that mean we need to build a physical wall? Perhaps in some areas.

Regardless of how big or small the physical wall is, we must secure our borders.

What I hear from others is that undocumented immigrants are not asking for the right to vote, or even for citizenship. Most are hard-working, good people. They are asking for residency, with an I.D. that allows them to drive and work without fear of deportation. They are often fleeing oppressive and dangerous conditions in their country of origin.

Our guiding principles on such tough issues should always be, what is constitutional? What is in the best interest of our nation and its citizens?

I am running to serve you as state senator because YOU matter. I understand what it means to sacrifice, lead and to represent others. If elected, I will represent you with tested, proven, sound judgment and a 100 percent commitment to excellence and integrity.

I ask you for your vote!

Robert Brown Party Affiliation: Democrat Every effort was made to offer Mr. Brown an opportunity to participate in this issue.

Unfortunately, there was no reply our requests.

Robert Brown

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Newton: You should vote for Paul Newton if you want a common sense, real-world conservative who is business minded. I will work hard to create new and better jobs in our state.

I am a husband, married 30 years; I have four children. I attend The Refuge church in Kannapolis. I earned business and legal degrees at UNC-Chapel Hill.

I practiced law for several years before becoming a business leader at Duke Energy. I retired as North Carolina State President in 2015.

I served on the Cabarrus County Advisory Board for Big Brothers, Big Sisters. I participated in various churchrelated ministry outreaches. I served on the boards of the N.C. Center for Non-Profits and the N.C. Chamber of Commerce.

them; dramatically reduced regulations on business; and invested a great deal into education, including encouraging families to make choices about education that best fit their children’s needs to prepare them for work.

We need to keep creating a climate that is good for business and let the free enterprise system function as it should, without government interference.

We need to stop wasting taxpayer funding on things that are none of the government’s responsibility – such as giving financial incentives to big corporations – and get out of the way to let businesses create jobs, not the government.

N.C. STATE GENERAL ASSEMBLY – 82nd DISTRICT

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what Two-year Term do we need to make our society safer?

Pittman: First, we need Larry G. Pittman a president who will Age: 62 acknowledge these problems Party Affiliation: Republican for what they are and set (Incumbent) our armed forces and law www.electpittman.com enforcement free to attack CM: Do you believe the them, rather than weakening economy is in better shape our military and making law than it was eight years ago? enforcement out to be the Larry Pittman If not, what would you do to problem. We also need to change it? uphold the right of our law-abiding Pittman: North Carolina’s economy is citizens to keep and bear arms so certainly better because of the changes that they can defend themselves from we have made since 2011. We have terrorists and criminals, and encourage drastically cut unemployment, paid off citizens to get good training in firearm over $2 billion in debt to the federal use and safety. government’s unemployment system; It would be good if business owners lowered income taxes, both corporate would realize that they are much safer " and personal, in an effort to eliminate

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with armed citizens on their premises than with little stickers on their doors that stop those citizens from carrying into their buildings, who might even have saved the lives of business owners and customers otherwise, when criminals and terrorists ignore those stickers and the law in general.

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Pittman: We could begin by enforcing the laws that are already on the books and deporting illegals who slip through our defenses or overstay their visas. We need to overturn the court ruling from years ago that requires us to educate the children of illegals in our public schools, and take away every other incentive they have for coming here illegally. We need to put teeth into our immigration laws, and stop hindering border patrol agents and state and local law enforcement from enforcing those laws. We need to stop pandering to the interests of big business wanting cheap labor and actually punish them if they hire illegals to take jobs from Americans.

be no other rights. I may be part of the government, but I don’t work for the government. I work for the people.

I am a small church pastor, and was a forklift operator in the Shipping Department and company chaplain at a local business before I went to Raleigh.

I put legislation in Raleigh to a fourpoint test. First, will this legislation put man’s law in conflict with God’s law? If it does, I will not vote for it. Second, will this legislation uphold the rights of our citizens, or will it violate their rights? If it violates those rights, I will fight to stop it. Third, is it any of the government’s business in the first place? If it isn’t, I won’t support it because I go to Raleigh to try to limit government to the actual responsibilities of government.

Fourth, can I justify to the taxpayers any expenditure of their money that this legislation would involve? If I can’t, I oppose it.

Earle Schecter

Age: 72 Party Affiliation: Democrat www.facebook.com/Earle Schecter for NC House CM: Do you believe the economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago?

Earle Schecter On the other hand, I have a If not, what would you do to friend from Mexico who did change it? everything the right way, according to Schecter: The economy is most the law. Yet he had to be here seven definitely in better shape than it was years before he could bring his wife and eight years ago. Eight years ago, our children to live with him here. He only economy was losing 800,000 per got to see them about twice a year for month, the banking system was near all that time. That is outrageous. If his collapse, the auto industry was bankrupt wife was eligible to come here legally, and the Stock Market was down around as he did, she and the children should 600. Today, the Stock Market has have been allowed to be with him rather tripled, the banking system is making than keeping that family apart for seven record profits, the auto industry (and years. That is inhumane. It needs to be all its thousands of jobs) is doing quite changed. well and every month since eight years ago, we have added jobs. In fact, the CM: Please tell our readers why you unemployment rate is below 5 percent should get their vote. today; eight years ago, it was around 10 Pittman: As I have always said, I don’t percent. have all the answers. What I do have is a commitment to the God-given rights CM: From radical Islamic to domestic of our citizens, beginning with the terrorism, our nation has been under right to life, without which there can

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attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to make our society safer?

Schecter: First, we need to end the endless war in Afghanistan. This only serves as a recruiting tool for the terrorists. Next, we must find a way to engage the Middle Eastern nations to involve themselves – on a massive military level – in the war against the terrorists. Once we and our allies regain the territory lost to the various terrorists groups in the region, we must return to a policy of, ‘nation building.’

On the home front, instead of shouts by politicians such as Donald Trump to demean and insult Muslim Americans, we must ask for their help in providing the intelligence needed in their respective communities. This will greatly help the federal agencies devoted to stopping homegrown terrorists within our country.

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Schecter: President Obama’s amnesty program was the correct approach for the millions of undocumented immigrants and their families who have lived in America for many years.

Rounding up 11 million people is totally absurd and totally impractical. Next, we must realize that Mexican people have virtually stopped coming across the southern border looking for jobs.

The fact is that Mexico’s economy is booming. The idea of building, ‘a wall and having Mexico pay for it’ is only a sound-bite and not a rational thought.

Congress, which has passed almost no legislation in the past eight years, must finally, and seriously, tackle this difficult problem.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Schecter: I am the Democratic candidate for the 82nd District for the North Carolina General Assembly.

My opponent, Larry Pittman, is the Republican candidate who has embarrassed his own Republican Party

to the degree that he is receiving little support from them.

On the issues, I support public education; my opponent does not. I support job creation and economic development; my opponent does not.

I support equal pay for women; my opponent does not. I believe every citizen in North Carolina should have the right to vote; my opponent does not.

I am a veteran who cares about veterans; my opponent is not and does not. I believe all North Carolinians should have healthcare; my opponent does not.

House finance. This allows me a total picture of our state in both revenue and appropriations.

When appointed to these positions, our state was in debt a total of $5 billion with no plan to recover. I am proud to say, today, our state has reduced taxes and has balanced our budget while bringing in more than 300,000 jobs, increasing teacher pay, increasing educational funding and having a $1-billion savings account should we have unforeseen problems.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to make our society safer?

Johnson: North Carolina has and should continue to do all we can for our citizens’ safety. These procedures include our security efforts for our state, some efforts are securing our research facilities, preparing evacuation routes, improving school safety efforts, police support and securing our technology. If elected, I will continue to improve our safety efforts. "

And, finally, just like Ronald Reagan, I believe in the Second Amendment to the Constitution, including background checks for the purchase of a gun, as do 70 percent of gun owners. My opponent steadfastly believes one has the right to purchase ANY GUN, and TAKE IT ANYWHERE (schools, churches and bars) without first obtaining a background check.

N.C. STATE GENERAL ASSEMBLY – 83rd DISTRICT Two-year Term

Linda P. Johnson Age: 71 Party Affiliation: Republican (Incumbent) www.facebook. com/linda.p.

Linda Johnson johnson1 CM: Do you believe the economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago? If not, what would you do to change it?

Johnson: Eight years ago we were in the middle of a national recession, which hit all our states very hard, and for that reason we have to be better off nationally. In 2011 there was a change in leadership in North Carolina and I was appointed a House chief budget writer.

I have served in that position the last six years and also serve as vice-chair of

October 2016 15 n

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Johnson: This, too, is mainly a federal issue but I would continue to do all I can to support our citizens with state efforts to remove sanctuary cities and support our state’s law enforcement efforts with training on federal laws.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Johnson: I ask for your vote because I believe I have a proven record of accomplishments and service to the people of North Carolina, and am proud to represent my district. I serve on numerous state and national committees and boards and always try to give 150 percent. Thank you for your consideration of my continued service.

Jeremy Hachen Age: 25 Party Affiliation: Democrat www.hachen 2016.org CM: Do you believe the economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago?

If not, what would you do to change it?

Hachen: Although the economy of North Carolina is larger than it was eight years ago, many North Carolinians find themselves working as hard as they can without making any progress. The wage gap has widened and upward mobility has slowed. North Carolina working families can be helped by providing tax reform that is actually helpful to all of us, not just those at the top. The earned income tax credit must be reinstated and the added taxes on services that our state government has placed on all of us should be lifted to relieve the taxpayer and make life just a little easier.

Investment in our future will also help grow the economy. We need to make a serious commitment to growing both our public schools and our state’s infrastructure. Better public schools will provide North Carolina with an educated workforce and an environment

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that is enticing to businesses looking to bring in jobs. Investment in North Carolina, through public education and infrastructure, is the best way to ensure economic prosperity for the future.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to make our society safer?

Hachen: Let’s be honest, the North Carolina House of Representatives can do very little to stem Islamic or domestic terrorism. What is possible is to improve our law enforcement system to make all of us safer. The best way to keep North Carolinians safe is to provide our law enforcement officers with more training to handle the wide range of issues we expect them to deal with.

Representatives is to fund and regulate our public school system. I am a public school teacher here in Cabarrus County and I am telling you we have an education problem right here at home.

Thirty-five students in a class, a third of a school being taught in mobile units, limited supplies and a workforce that knows they are not valued. I know what our schools need to succeed and we desperately need the perspective of a teacher, not a politician, when dealing with our schools.

North Carolina Governor Four-year Term

Pat McCrory

Age: 59 Party Affiliation: Republican We expect our law enforcement (Incumbent) officers to handle www.patmccrory.com everything from Every effort was made to offer underage drinking Mr. McCrory an opportunity at high school to participate in this issue. parties to active Pat McCrory Unfortunately, there was no shooter scenarios in reply our requests. schools and malls. We must increase the training we provide so that those who choose a life of service can be prepared to handle what we expect them to handle.

Jeremy Hachen

Roy Cooper

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Hachen: Once again, immigration is handled at a federal level. Our state government does not have the means or authority to put our own immigration standards in place. We do need immigration reform, but asking Congress to do anything about it seems futile.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Hachen: One of the largest responsibilities of the North Carolina House of

Dan Forest

Roy Cooper

Age: 59 Party Affiliation: Democrat www.roycooper.com Every effort was made to offer Mr. Cooper an opportunity to participate in this issue.

Unfortunately, there was no reply our requests.

North Carolina Lieutenent Governor Four-year Term

Dan Forest Age: 48 Party Affiliation: Republican (Incumbent) www.ltgov.gov CM: Do you believe the economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago?

If not, what would you do

to change it?

Forest: While the economic recovery has been slow nationwide over the last eight years, the same cannot be said for North Carolina over the last four years. We have witnessed the creation of 300,000 new jobs, exceeded the nation’s rate of GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth, and cut individual and corporate income taxes. We have paid off $2.8 billion in unemployment debt to the federal government to save businesses money on unemployment insurance taxes and turned the Medicaid deficit around to a surplus.

National organizations have recognized how North Carolina’s economy is growing at a faster rate than the rest of the country. We’ve gone from 44th to 15th in business tax climate as rated by the Tax Foundation.

I would continue working on these policies to continue to decrease the tax burden of businesses and individuals in North Carolina and remove more regulatory red tape. We need to stay the course if we want to see continued economic growth.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to do to make our society safer?

Forest: I firmly believe that protecting our society has to begin at the local level. We need better information sharing between federal government intelligence sources, the state and local law enforcement. For instance, as we have Syrian refugees being placed by the federal government and NGOs (non-governmental organizations) into North Carolina, the federal government does not allow the state to be involved in the vetting process. Intelligence that the federal government has that may show that a North Carolina resident has sympathy towards a terror group such as ISIS must be shared with our state and local law enforcement so that these agencies can be on the lookout for suspicious activity and make the

proper call on what to do with such an individual in the event of an arrest or other contact with law enforcement.

Unless and until the vetting process is fixed, I am opposed to locating any refugees from Syria or other ISIS-infiltrated areas in North Carolina.

am asking for your vote to continue the great strides we have made.

Linda Coleman Age: 67 Party Affiliation: Democrat www.lindafornc.com Every effort was made to offer Ms. Coleman an opportunity to participate in this issue.

Unfortunately, there was no reply our requests.

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you Linda Coleman feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Jacki Cole Jacki Cole Forest: Before we can even Age: 50 discuss immigration reform, Party Affiliation: Libertarian we must secure our border. www.facebook.com/ If illegal immigrants are JackiCole4NCLG allowed to continue to cross CM: Do you believe the over our borders by the economy is in better shape millions, it will not matter than it was eight years ago? what immigration reforms If not, what would you do to are made. I oppose and will continue to change it? oppose amnesty for illegal immigrants Cole: I think the Stock Market is better in any form. When President Obama, by off, but the government is deeper a stroke of his pen, granted amnesty to in debt and wealth inequality has illegal immigrants, I filed a brief in the increased. So, no, we are not in better United States Supreme Court arguing shape economically. that the president’s actions were clearly Libertarians believe in reducing unconstitutional. As a result of that government interference to create more lawsuit, Obama’s executive amnesty jobs and a more equal playing field was stopped. We need more local law for entrepreneurship by eliminating enforcement agencies in North Carolina government licensing, reducing taxes to participate in the 287(g) program – specifically federal income tax – and to make sure that illegal immigrants ending corporate welfare. that are arrested for committing crimes in North Carolina are turned over to CM: From radical Islamic to domestic federal immigration authorities for terrorism, our nation has been under deportation. attack of late. In your opinion, what CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Forest: Over the last four years, we have put North Carolina back to work.

We have erased billions of dollars in debt. We have cut taxes for all North Carolinians. We have increased teacher pay to an average of over $50,000.

We have invested more money in the education of our children than at any other time in the history of North Carolina. I will continue to stand up for what is right in every decision that I make as your lieutenant governor, and I

do we need to make our society safer?

Cole: We need to stop attacking other countries – end the drone strikes and bombing of innocent people on the other side of the globe. The U.S. has the right to defend its people and land, but regime change has proven to not be a viable foreign policy strategy or guarantee of peace.

Domestically, we need to stop militarization of law enforcement, asset forfeiture of people not charged with a crime, and decriminalization of drug use. "

October 2016 17 n

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

Peanut is four years old and has lived at our shelter for about a year, waiting for that perfect home where she can be the only pet. Found as a stray and looking like she had been attacked by another animal, Peanut understandably prefers the company of people over anything else. Once she bonds with you, she is very loving and likes to rub noses. She’s also had needed dental work done, which makes her feel so much better. There is no adoption fee for Peanut, as she has been sponsored; she just needs her special person to love. Please call Karin at 704-701-5441 to make arrangements to meet this sweet girl.

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

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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.

Reeses is a beautiful five-year-old who is sweet and lovey, but knows what she likes and what she doesn’t. She was left at Animal Control with her sisters Amber and Gracie after her person got a new puppy and they were no longer wanted.

Reeses has definitely been dealt a raw deal, but we are committed to finding her the perfect forever home this time. We feel she would do best as an only cat or with one of her sisters, and probably in a home without very small children. Reeses is spayed and up-to-date on her vaccines. Please give her a chance, come visit her at Princeton’s Meow.

Princeton’s Meow – Cabarrus Humane Society’s Cat Facility 29 Brookwood Avenue N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-721-6369 • www.cabarrushumanesociety.org

Sponsored by Union Street Bistro

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

Rosemary Gnocchi Amatriciana ingredients Amatriciana Sauce: 5 oz. diced raw bacon 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes 3 oz. heavy cream 5 oz. dried fennel 3 oz. diced yellow onion .75 oz. fresh basil (rough chopped)

1 Tbsp. dry Italian seasoning 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper 1 Tbsp. minced garlic 1 tsp. fennel powder 1/4 cup white cooking wine 2 Tbsp. grated Romano cheese

Gnocchi: 2 cups cooked mashed potatoes 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour 3 whole eggs

3 Tbsp. fresh rosemary (destemed/minced) 1.5 tsp. garlic salt 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS Amatriciana sauce: Cook bacon in saute´ pan until brown. Remove bacon, leaving the grease in pan. Return pan to medium heat; add fennel and onion. Cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic, red pepper, fennel, Italian seasoning and basil. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring often. Add white wine and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked bacon, crushed tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and reduce heat to low, stirring occasionally.

Gnocchi: Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Mash until all lumps are broken and potatoes are smooth. Refrigerate until cool. In large mixing bowl, add cooled potatoes, flour, eggs, rosemary, garlic salt and pepper. Knead until dough forms a ball. On a floured surface, roll small portions of dough into “ropes” and cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Drop in gnocchi and cook for 3-5 minutes or until gnocchi rises to the top. Drain water and toss in Amatriciana sauce along with Romano cheese. Plate, serve and enjoy!

Chef Skyler Bailes has been executive chef at Union Street Bistro for more than three years and has 15-plus years of professional cooking experience.

His previous cooking styles – other than American – have included French, Italian, Low-country, Asian and South American. Chef Bailes always enjoys the challenge and personal gratification of creating new dishes and exceeding customer expectations. n

October 2016 19 n

CM: What is your stance on immigration reform? If you feel changes are needed, how would you go about making them?

Cole: This is really a federal issue, not a state one; however, we need to make it easier for immigrants to get work visas to be here legally. By and large, immigrants are not taking jobs away from Americans or threatening our safety. They are providing services that many Americans need and value. We are getting hardworking people who want to be here, who, in many cases, have risked life and limb or financial hardship to come here. Yes, there should be background checks, but if there are no red flags and they have work lined up, they should be issued work visas.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Cole: I ask that people vote for me and the other Libertarian candidates to bring change that can only happen from a different perspective. In North Carolina and at the national level, the ‘big two’ have both increased government regulations and spending. The career politicians are out of touch with the people. If you want the government out of your personal life, and for local issues to be left to be resolved at the local level, please give us a chance.

Cabarrus County Commission Four-year Term

Steve Morris Age: 62 Party Affiliation: Republican (Incumbent) www.stevemorrisfor commssioner.com CM: Do you believe the Steve economy is in better shape Morris than it was eight years ago? If not, what would you do to change it?

Morris: Absolutely! Looking at Cabarrus County and the opportunities that we’ve had, we’ve probably had more projects to consider and that actually

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relocated here in the past four years than in the seven years that preceded them. Our unemployment rate is also lower. But there’s always room for improvement and that’s why communication between the municipalities and local businesses is so important.

Elizabeth Poole

Age: 58 Party Affiliation: Republican (Incumbent) wwwfacebook.com/Liz-PooleCabarrus-County-Board-ofCommissioners CM: Do you believe the Elizabeth Poole economy is in better shape than it was eight years ago? If not, CM: From radical Islamic to domestic what would you do to change it? terrorism, our nation has been under Poole: Some people are better off; attack of late. In your opinion, what however, many are not. In Cabarrus do we need to make our society safer?

County, we have been blessed with a Morris: I truly believe that the best thing strong hospitality and tourism industry Cabarrus County can do is to know your that has helped with our recovery from neighbor and provide opportunities the recession. for people to meet and understand The county has also grown in our each other. If we will truly do that, we number of businesses, which has can avoid all that here. I think some increased job opportunities. The Board people are scared of things they don’t of Commissioners has worked to understand. attract new businesses and to expand CM: Cabarrus County is growing at a rapid pace. Considering current infrastructure, is it too fast? How would you encourage positive growth, what are some of the challenges you face and how would you address them?

Morris: In some regards, we are growing too fast. Sometimes I fear we can’t keep up with the infrastructure, especially in relation to the schools. We have to start building the schools before the kids are of age to fill them. We have to predict that need. There’s very little we can do about that. The county tried some things in the past (to limit growth), but they were ruled illegal. Is it a crisis?

No. Would it be nice if we could regulate it? Yes. But we are able to keep it in balance right now.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Morris: If you look at my record for the past four years, and what we’ve been able to accomplish, the record speaks for itself. The reason I do it is because I love my community and I want to continue to serve it.

current businesses. Over the last eight years, Cabarrus County has seen capital investments of more than $955 million, more than 5,600 full-time jobs and more than 700 part-time jobs. We need to continue those programs to make Cabarrus County an attractive place to locate or to expand.

We also need to continue to preserve farmland, support our farming community and enhance our standard of living. The construction of Wallace Park and expanded library hours are examples of efforts to provide for our citizens.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to make our society safer?

Poole: Culture trumps strategies. As long as we are willing to listen to other people and talk, we can solve any problem. We have to have a culture of respect and a desire to work together. A strong educational system is important to support such a culture.

From a county perspective, we have to support those who work every day to truly make this place safer: law enforcement, fire departments,

emergency medical services, etc. The county also needs to make building a new courthouse a priority and provide appropriate facilities for our courts, district attorney, probation and all the people who work out of that facility.

want to inspire people to leave their mark. The good thing is, that process never ends and I’d like to continue to do what I love with the support of the voters.

dollars, and Wall Street reforms providing protection for consumers, continue to make a positive impact on the economy.

CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our Age: 67 nation has been under attack Party Affiliation: Democrat of late. In your opinion, CM: Do you believe the what do we need to make economy is in better shape our society safer? than it was eight years ago?

Miller: We can make our If not, what would you do to society safer by every citizen’s change it? commitment to be vigilant of Evelyn Miller Miller: I believe our economy their surroundings as they go is in better shape, but continues to be about their everyday lives. They should sluggish due to the 112th Congress report any suspicious activities or being the least productive in history. behaviors, no matter how minute it may They have refused to pass legislation appear, to local authorities. Our federal, on job bills despite initiatives to raise state and local government should wages and lower unemployment that ensure freedom for individuals: equality, could stimulate the economy. Growth respect, tolerance and a strong sense in employment and the housing of mutual trust as core values. When might be stronger if the job markets there is a reputable threat – domestic or were more robust. However, better Islamic – it should be taken seriously, fiscal responsibility by government analyzed and shared with all local, state eliminating waste and abuse of federal and federal authorities. "

Evelyn Miller CM: Cabarrus County is growing at a rapid pace. Considering current infrastructure, is it too fast? How would you encourage positive growth, what are some of the challenges you face and how would you address them?

Poole: We have been very fortunate to be a growing county vs. some counties in the state that are dying. Bring on the challenges. The county must continue to work with the municipalities to encourage growth in all areas of the county and, as best we can, anticipate any challenges, be it rail, roads, water, sewer, schools, law enforcement, etc.

As the vice-chair of the Cabarrus Rowan Metropolitan Planning Organization – the roads and bridges group – we have worked to secure state and federal funding for roads and bridges. The widening of I-85 is painful now, but will be wonderful once completed. Likewise, changes to Derita Road and Concord Mills Boulevard will improve those areas. I have been championing the extension of George Liles Boulevard to Highway 49. A number of distribution centers have opened in Cabarrus County and mobility is very important to their success.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Poole: Serving in a local elected office is not for everyone, as my friends continually tell me. There is a song, I Was Here that says: ‘I want to do something that matters, say something different, something that sets the whole world on its ear. I want to do something better with the time I was given, and I want to try to touch a few hearts in this life. Leave nothing less than something that says I was here.’

I want to do just that; I want to make this small part of the world better; I

October 2016 21 n

CM: Cabarrus County is growing at Cabarrus County Board a rapid pace. Considering current of Education infrastructure, is it too fast? How Four-year Term/Non-partisan would you encourage positive growth, what are some of the Tom Clark challenges you face and how Age: 62 would you address them?

CM: From radical Islamic Miller: Cabarrus County to domestic terrorism, our infrastructure continues to grow nation has been under at a rapid pace. The biggest attack of late. In your challenge our county presently opinion, what do we need faces is commuter traffic into to do to make our schools Tom Clark surrounding counties. I would safer? encourage a task force to study the Clark: Administrators and teachers need consideration of light rail into Cabarrus to develop a conversational relationship County to help decrease traffic and with parents and guardians. Teachers commute time to surrounding counties. should make it a goal to speak with the parents of all their students within CM: Please tell our readers why you the first month of school. Suspicious should get their vote. behavior at home, on campus, over Miller: Yes! Vote for Evelyn Miller social media channels and in overheard for Cabarrus County Commissioner. conversations should be reported to law I will bring to the board my interest enforcement and/or school authorities. in making Cabarrus County mean ‘See something, say something’ should business in developing the powers and be a common practice for everyone with responsibilities of the County Board. assured anonymity when requested.

I will ask our constituents to make their concerns known, share them with CM: Cabarrus County is growing at the board and seek viable solutions " a rapid pace. Considering current about public safety, county needs and infrastructure, is it too fast relative to state requirements that will enhance the the number of school-age children vs. lives of all our citizens. the number of available schools?

Clark: We can find communities across the nation which succeeded in dealing with this problem. We will study their models and use the best practices from them that fit within our budget and structure resources. If we find ourselves pioneers in dealing with this problem, then we will become the model to be

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used by others facing this dilemma. We will rise to the level of the challenge.

CM: Teachers often have to dip into their own pockets to provide classroom materials and tools.

What changes are needed to reduce/ eliminate this?

Clark: We are smart enough to develop a system to reimburse teachers for justifiable out-of-pocket expenses not covered in existing programs. This should be part of a compensation package that includes a pay raise and some added benefits. This is a concept that should be developed by teachers and administrators to ensure that the primary beneficiary is the student.

CM: Please tell our readers why you should get their vote.

Clark: After 22 years living in this county, teaching in its schools, attending its churches and observing its people, I believe there are new approaches to take to involve more of our citizens and businesses in building tomorrow. The challenges of growth will need every citizen to discover the part they will play to ensure all agencies of county/ city government are empowered to meet the challenge of a fast-growing society with a diversity of needs. These agencies include schools, law-enforcement, infrastructure, facilities management‌ and the list goes on.

I have no criticism of the way things have been handled, but my military experience (22 years, U.S. Air Force officer) and 21 years teaching middle

CM: Teachers often have to dip into their own pockets to provide classroom materials and tools.

What changes are needed to reduce/ eliminate this?

Fertenbaugh: There is a Cindy Fertenbaugh finite amount of Age: 58 funding which must www.facebook.com/ be shared across cindyfertenbaughcabarrus technology, supply CM: From radical Islamic and often textbook to domestic terrorism, our spending. In the nation has been under attack mid-1990s, I worked of late. In your opinion, Cindy Fertenbaugh with Communities In what do we need to do to Schools on what we believe was make our schools safer? the first School Tools drive in Fertenbaugh: Safety measures initiated Cabarrus County, in cooperation with or enhanced during my prior service the Chamber of Commerce. I would on the board, including the design like to re-ignite the partnership with and remodeling of the main entrances chamber members and other local to schools to force visitors to enter groups to adopt schools for basic supply through the office, and the expansion needs and to contribute to the growth of of the School Resource Officer program technology tools. need to be continued. We should also continue to engage with local law CM: Please tell our readers what your enforcement on new safety measures, including training for staff since they are Board of Education goals are and why you should get their vote. the daily eyes and ears on each school Fertenbaugh: Advocating for public campus. education has been my passion for nearly three decades, through CM: Cabarrus County is growing at volunteerism at individual schools, with a rapid pace. Considering current Communities in Schools and with Junior infrastructure, is it too fast relative to Achievement, in addition to previously the number of school-age children vs. serving on the Board of Education for the number of available schools?

14 years.

Fertenbaugh: The county commissioners have been supportive During my previous tenure, I took my with recent school construction funding, responsibility seriously by studying so school capacity continues to grow materials, asking detailed questions along with the expanding population. and engaging with the community The updated magnet school program is on the topics. Each decision and vote ensuring that available seats are being came after thoughtful and informed used without constant redistricting. consideration. The other board It is important for the board to be members came to rely on my research responsible with taxpayers’ money and and comments on many agenda topics. be creative with using all available space. Often, I was the mediator between Likewise, county and municipal leaders dissenting views, explaining the pros may need to adjust their processes for and cons of situations. granting new construction permits and In addition, I was fortunate to engage slow down construction, especially in advocacy for public education at the with apartments, which provide a local, state and national levels, including higher density of students in a smaller lobbying for educational needs. I was geographic footprint. appointed to two state-level committees involving education and technology, school through college will help our county face challenges that were a normal part of the dynamic world of military management.

and recognized as a member of the All State School Board in 2012. With the support of the voters in November, I will continue to be a dedicated and wellinformed board member and advocate for Cabarrus County schools.

David Harrison Age: 59 www.facebook.com/David Harrison Cabarrus School Board member CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our David nation has been under attack Harrison of late. In your opinion, what do we need to do to make our schools safer?

Harrison: In a midwestern state a few years back, a tornado devastated a school one morning. Many of the children were not hurt, but… how?

Where were the children? Under the bodies of teachers, who risked their own safety to shield the children from harm.

That’s just what teachers do. In whatever circumstances, they do all they humanly can to care for children’s safety.

Hire passionate, dedicated, trained teachers; support them with county deputies and municipal police officers; make sure fire and EMT resources are ready at all times; ensure clean and wellmaintained buildings; and earn the trust and full confidence of parents and the community. That keeps children safe, so they can learn.

CM: Cabarrus County is growing at a rapid pace. Considering current infrastructure, is it too fast relative to the number of school-age children vs. the number of available schools?

Harrison: Look outside of Cabarrus for counties and areas that, after six to seven years of recession, still have scant economic activity, few companies employing people, a disproportionate number of low-wage opportunities and long lines for what rare jobs there are.

The challenges of Cabarrus’ growth (32,000 students) are ‘good problems’ to have. Growth means we are a "

October 2016 23 n

desirable place to live, where selling/ buying homes and building bridges and roads prove our economic vitality, which translates to a strong tax base, which itself is a sustainable source of funds for school capital needs and local teacher supplements.

Cabarrus’ strong current economy is the direct result of the foresight of the county’s leaders over the last 20 to 30 years, and our responsibility today is to make sure we keep our current attractive environment for living and doing business – and having great schools – reliable for future generations to inherit.

CM: Teachers often have to dip into their own pockets to provide classroom materials and tools.

What changes are needed to reduce/ eliminate this?

Harrison: It’s often said teachers spend $500 annually of their own family income for school supplies for kids whose families are unable to meet these needs. That figure is wrong. It’s low.

The N.C. General Assembly should implement a $2,000 personal income tax credit for teachers who purchase classroom supplies.

CM: Please tell our readers what your Board of Education goals are and why you should get their vote.

Harrison: It’s been my honor and privilege to serve Cabarrus, and I humbly ask voters to continue working for you. In the next years, we need to unleash teacher creativity to achieve graduate rates of 95 percent by 2020; keep math and reading programs rigorous; challenge kids with competitive IB, STEM and Academy offerings; add counselors to work with children distracted by poverty and family dysfunctionalities; pay and treat staff fairly; use county and state resources wisely; manage growth by planning for it. Fix problems.

Jeffrey King Age: 42 www.facebook.com/Jeffrey-King-for-

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Cabarrus-County-School-Board Every effort was made to offer Mr. King an opportunity to participate in this issue. Unfortunately, there was no reply our requests.

Jeff Phillips

county. We have purchased land and started the process to build a new high school to relieve overcrowding at that level, and we are building replacements for two of the oldest schools in our district: Royal Oaks Elementary and Mt. Pleasant Middle School.

Age: 58 www.facebook.com/ JPhillipsCCSBoard CM: Teachers often have to CM: From radical Islamic dip into their own pockets to to domestic terrorism, our provide classroom materials nation has been under attack and tools. What changes are of late. In your opinion, what needed to reduce/eliminate Jeff Phillips do we need to do to make this? our schools safer?

Phillips: As someone who is married Phillips: We are very focused on keeping to a teacher, I know only too well how our schools safe for our students and much teachers spend out of their own staff. In the four years I’ve served on the pockets. Part of this is simply because board, we have significantly upgraded they are so passionate about helping our security systems, added police children. Another part is that the state officers in every school, added fencing drastically cut back its contribution for around our schools with multiple buying instructional supplies when the buildings where students go outside to recession hit in 2008-’09. That funding get from one building to another, and is yet to return. Our board will continue implemented rigorous safety audits to to lobby our legislators to increase verify that our schools are ready in case funding for supplies, but the people danger strikes. they really listen to are the voters.

CM: Cabarrus County is growing at a rapid pace. Considering current infrastructure, is it too fast relative to the number of school-age children vs. the number of available schools?

Phillips: While keeping up with rapid growth is a challenge for our school system, I would rather have that challenge than the one which many school systems in the eastern part of our state are facing: declining population.

Growth can be painful at times, but it also brings new jobs and more resources to our county.

When I ran for the school board in 2012, I said we needed a master plan to address our growing student population while also addressing the need to renovate or replace many of our aging schools. I’m happy to say that we now have a 10-year capital plan, which has the support of our county commissioners. We have built a new elementary school to address overcrowding on the western side of the

CM: Please tell our readers what your Board of Education goals are and why you should get their vote.

Phillips: I am a product of the public schools of Sherman, TX. The education I received there gave me the foundation to obtain a PhD in mechanical engineering from Stanford. For that I owe a debt of gratitude to my parents’ and grandparents’ generations. I cannot repay them, but I can pay that debt forward by seeing to it that today’s generation of students receives at least as good an education as I received. That is why I ran for the school board four years ago, and it is why I would like to continue to serve on the Cabarrus County School Board.

During the next four years I would like our district to produce the most techsavvy students in our region so they will be able to thrive in today’s job market.

Also, we must find ways to reach our students who currently struggle in school. If we fail in that effort, all of us

will be paying for it for the rest of those students’ lives.

As Frederick Douglass once said, ‘It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.’ If you share that conviction, I need your support and your vote.

is to make sure we utilize the building resources that the local taxpayers have provided and to minimize the impact on the students. To accomplish this, it is important to maintain diligence and sensitivity to growth by revising the 5- to 10-Year Capital Plan each year.

Barry Shoemaker Age: 63 www.facebook.com/BarryShoemaker-Cabarrus-CountyBoard-of-Education CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to do to make our schools safer?

Shoemaker: Safety and security in each of our schools is a top priority and should remain so. Over the past four years, physical security on each campus required additional investments in campus and building fencing, campus entry structures meant to limit direct access to the interior school campus, camera systems and ID technology.

Cabarrus County Schools (CCS) took advantage of state grants and increased local expenditures to assure that school resource officers (SROs) were allocated for each school.

A safety committee of staff and emergency response personnel work to audit safety processes and responses to various emergency scenarios at each school. This assures improved understanding by staff and even students on how to respond in emergencies.

CM: Cabarrus County is growing at a rapid pace. Considering current infrastructure, is it too fast relative to the number of school-age children vs. the number of available schools?

Shoemaker: There is very little CCS can do to influence the continued growth in our district. Based on recent estimates, the average growth of our student population will range from 1.5 percent to 3 percent. As elected officials, our task

Barry Shoemaker

It is important that our county public schools provide quality education and prepare our students with skills that will allow them to go on to successful pursuits of education or productive individuals sought out by businesses. Businesses are drawn to communities with strong educational structures.

CM: Teachers often have to dip into their own pockets to provide classroom materials and tools.

What changes are needed to reduce/ eliminate this?

Shoemaker: The General Assembly (GA) is attempting to help districts with this problem, but the amount offered is very small and is sometimes countered by other budget changes that result in very little real money actually focused on supplying the classroom.

during this time a new superintendent was named, our relationship with the county commissioners has improved dramatically, new schools are completed or being built and our district continues to perform at high levels.

Keisha Villatoro lamone78@yahoo.com CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to do to make our schools safer?

Villatoro: We need to have terrorist attack drills in every school, including day cares, public, private, charter colleges and universities. We need to educate students, parents and community on the need and importance of the drills, so that everyone understands the why. We should survey the students, staff and teachers and get their input on what would make them feel safe. "

CCS collects fees to support local classroom expenses, but they do not begin to cover all classroom needs. CCS provides opportunities to give directly to the schools using the Student Supply Fee Fund, but the school system is not actively soliciting for donations of this kind. Another method is through support of the PTAs, PTOs or PTSOs. We must depend on ourselves rather than the different government groups if we want to make a difference for the teacher in the classroom.

CM: Please tell our readers what your Board of Education goals are and why you should get their vote.

Shoemaker: I am fully prepared to continue to represent the citizens of Cabarrus County as a member of the Board of Education. Over the past two years I have served as the chairman, and

October 2016 25 n

CM: Cabarrus County is growing at a rapid pace. Considering current infrastructure, is it too fast relative to the number of school-age children vs. the number of available schools?

Villatoro: Yes. A practical, quick, less expensive solution might be to add more modulars that house entire grade levels to accommodate the rapid growth.

CM: Teachers often have to dip into their own pockets to provide classroom materials and tools.

What changes are needed to reduce/ eliminate this?

Villatoro: Local businesses could help with that cost every year. Teachers patronize these businesses weekly and it would be nice for the local businesses to consistently offset teacher costs by donating a portion of their profits yearly to help with yearly teacher supplies – businesses that count on teachers to help with their profit (Walmart, Food Lion, McDonald’s and Harris Teeter just to name a few).

CM: Please tell our readers what your Board of Education goals are and why you should get their vote.

Villatoro: To give parents, students and teachers a real voice, and help them find real solutions to their real concerns. To bring fresh, new insight to the table from the point of view of a teacher, mother and veteran of the United States armed forces who was awarded a leadership award by her commanding officer.

Robert Walter Age: 46 www.voterobwalter.org CM: From radical Islamic to domestic terrorism, our nation has been under attack of late. In your opinion, what do we need to do to make our schools safer?

Walter: I have supported the added security entrance vestibules to most all of our schools, upgraded camera and security locks, added security fencing and, most importantly, added police

26 Cabarrus Magazine n

officers to each of our schools. We also invested in a visitor check-in program and volunteer and staff background checks systems. We have set up a School Safety Committee and opened our schools to emergency response agencies to conduct active shooter and other drills with our staff over the summer.

I think more focus can be done on behaviors to look for and teaching on the subject for students and staff. I also think that the efforts to add school counselors, mental health professionals, and having our SROs available for students to be able to talk to and express their concerns will also make a difference.

CM: Cabarrus County is growing at a rapid pace. Considering current infrastructure, is it too fast relative to the number of school-age children vs. the number of available schools?

Walter: I am an advocate for growth because growth means lots of new jobs resulting in a positive economic impact for businesses, and increasing property values and tax revenues. However, that growth does not come without its challenges and infrastructure concerns.

One big one is the overcrowding and reaching student capacity at our existing schools in these high-growth areas.

Since I have been on the board we have added magnet and academy programs, and made smart, small redistricting decisions that helped reduce populations in highest growth schools.

This is, however, only a short-term solution as growth continues.

The good news is the County Commission realizes this as an important issue and has committed to funding some new schools. Even with this commitment, there is still a $100-million need in just Rob Walter the next couple of years to add new schools to meet the growth of students and a $100-million need for replacing old schools.

CM: Teachers often have to dip into their own pockets to provide classroom materials and tools.

What changes are needed to reduce/ eliminate this?

Walter: The state has reduced instructional supply budgets for the last several years and our teachers have had to be extremely resourceful, taking advantage of technology in creating classroom materials.

There are several local organizations working on this issue. My church, for example, is sponsoring several teachers this year and will provide supplies and encouragement throughout the year. The Cabarrus Education Foundation gives thousands away each year to teachers with their mini-grant program. Several businesses run school supplies drives.

We as a school system can help share the specific needs and coordinate to make sure those teachers that have a need get those resources before they have to dip into their own funds.

CM: Please tell our readers what your Board of Education goals are and why you should get their vote.

Walter: My passion for serving is to ensure a strong, individualized, engaging education is provided for all of our students in a safe, welcoming environment; parents are informed and involved in their child’s education; and our school system maintains a partnership with and reflects the values of our community as a whole.

I’m a strong believer in quality teachers and will continue to support arts education, career and technical education programs (language immersion, academies, STEM, ROTC, FFA), and extracurricular leadership development or service activities for students and athletes.

I would be grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve and make a positive difference for our students and community, and ask for your support and vote. n

On the Go Meals On Wheels Invites You to Sip Some Soup The 13th Annual Sunday Soup Sampler is taking place on November 6 at the City Club at Gibson Mill.

Presented by Shoe Show, this all-you-can-eat event sees more than 20 signature soups prepared by local restaurants, as well as desserts, breads, S&D coffee and tea, as well as a large silent auction.

The Soup Sampler is a fundraiser to support the efforts of Cabarrus Meals on Wheels’ feeding our needy local population. It will be held from 11:30am to 2:00pm, and City Club is located at 325 McGill Avenue N.W., in Concord, in the old Gibson Mill. Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased online at www.cabarrusmow.org before October 31. For more information, call 704-932-3412.

A Look Back at Depression-Era Baseball On October 9 at 2:00pm, Robert Billinger Jr., Ph.D., will present Playing for Empowerment: Mill Town Baseball During the Depression Era at the Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society.

During the dark days of the Depression, the rural South had little to hang its hopes on: God, family and baseball. Mill owners sought enthusiastic workers and loyal mill town citizens; players sought self-esteem and personal glory; and fans pursued excitement and group identity.

This event is open to the public with complimentary admission. Eastern Cabarrus Historical Society is located at 1100 N. Main Street in Mt. Pleasant. Call 704-783- 5240 for more information.

Innovation Day Comes to Concord Create the Connection is one of many initiatives by the Concord Downtown Development Corporation (CDDC) to reinforce the brand of the downtown business district as the regional location for unique and exciting shopping, dining, entertainment and living.

As part of this effort, creative artists, inventors and members of the greater community have submitted ideas and developed inventions that will be placed along Union Street for a one-day viewing by the public, on October 22 from 10:00am to 3:00pm.

The top designs, as selected by the public who come out the day of the event, will be awarded cash prizes, ($1,000, $500 and $250) with the potential for one design to be built out for permanent installation in downtown Concord. Come out and vote for your favorite! n

Penny’s Sweetz Cents Comes to Harrisburg ARTwalk Penny’s Sweetz Cents, located at 357 Queens Drive S.W. in Concord, has area bakeries and coffee shops adding its home-baked cakes, brownies and cookies to their retail cases. Now owner and baker, Penny Vaughn, announces she will be showcasing her home-baked desserts at the Harrisburg ARTwalk starting on October 15. She invites everyone to come pick out their favorite treat!

Have a business announcement?

Added a new hire?

Hosting a community event?

We’d like to hear from you!

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

October 2016 27 n

OCTOber 23rd Annual Carolina Renaissance Festival October 1-November 20 (weekends) 10:00am-5:30pm 16445 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville • Entertainment and pageantry as history comes alive with hundreds of costumed characters re-creating a 16th Century European Marketplace.

• www.carolina.renfestinfo.com

Bojangles’ Pole Night October 6 Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • Qualifying to set the field for the Bank of America 500. Also features the Better Half Dash, NASCAR Whelen Southern Modified Tour, and early afternoon Sprint Cup and XFINITY Series practice sessions.

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

kannapolis Fire Department 100th Anniversary Parade & Open House October 1 • 10:00am-3:00pm Kannapolis City Hall 401 Laureate Way, Kannapolis • Fire truck parade, Quiet Time TouchA-Truck, birthday ceremony, fire truck awards, food, games, inflatables, mascots, music and more!

• www.kannapolisnc.gov

TODDLER Story Time October 6, 13, 20, 27 • 10:30am Mt. Pleasant Branch Library 8556 Cook Street, Mt. Pleasant • Children from walking age to three years old with caregiver. Songs, stories, finger plays followed by playtime for toddlers and networking for parents.

• 704-436-2202

Piedmont Farmers Market October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 • 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

Brown Bag Coloring for Adults October 7, 14, 21, 28 11:00am-12:00pm Mt. Pleasant Branch Library 8556 Cook Street, Mt. Pleasant • Coloring books aren’t just for kids anymore. Bring your lunch and color your stress away. We provide the materials, or feel free to bring your own.

• 704-436-2202

Rotary Square Farmers Market October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (9:00am-12noon) October 4, 11, 18, 25 (10:00am-1:00pm) 120 Union St. S., Concord • Local fruits and vegetables, free-range eggs, antibiotic- and hormone-free meat • 704-425-5559; www.piedmont-farmersmarket.com Splash of Color Quilt & Fiber Show October 1 • 9:00am-4:00pm • $7 Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 4751 N.C. Highway 49, Concord • Quilts; raffle prizes; white elephant sale; silent auction; Quilts of Valor booth; Featured Quilt Artist: Dr. Carolyn Sweet • 980-521-0005; www.cabarrusquiltersguild.org

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cABARRUS COUNTY FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY October 7, 14, 21, 28 • 5:00-9:00pm 363 Church Street N., Concord • Created for local food trucks to come and showcase their food and talent while promoting the closeness of families • 704-910-9612 Concord Pedals & Pints October 7, 14, 21, 28 • 6:00-8:30pm • A free cycling club that holds weekly rides around Concord; all types of bicycles accepted.

• Breweries donate $1 per rider each week to the Cooperative Christian Ministry.

• 603-831-1671; www.highbranchbrewing.com

2nd Saturday Open Studios at CLEARWATER ARTIST STUDIOS October 8 • 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. Paved, free parking on-site. Concord’s Historic Downtown and eateries close by.

• 704-784-9535; www.clearwaterartists.com Bank of America 500 October 8 Charlotte Motor Speedway 5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord • The only Saturday night race in the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup • 800-455-3267; www.charlottemotorspeedway.com Guided Historic Walking Tour October 8 • 10:30-11:45am • $10 • Downtown Concord was ground zero for events that shaped life for those throughout Cabarrus County and the entire South!

• Join local author and historian, Michael Eury, through a guided historic walking tour of downtown Concord.

• 704-784-4208; info@concorddowntown.com Harrisburg Food Truck SATURDAY October 8 • 5:00-9:00pm 4100 Main Street, Harrisburg • Choose from a variety of food options from trucks offering different cuisines.

Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Leashed dogs welcomed. No alcohol allowed.

• 704-545-7823; www.eatfromatruck.com KANNAPOLIS CRUISE-IN October 8 • 1:00-7:00pm • Free Corner of West Avenue and First Street, downtown Kannapolis • This family-fun event brings out thousands of show cars and spectators.

• 704-932-3808; www.cabarrusevents.org The Cabarrus Quilt Guild October 10 • Doors open at 6:00pm Forest Hill United Methodist Church 265 Union Street N., Concord • Meet & Greet/refreshments: 6:15-6:45pm • Guest speaker: Judy Lilly and The Joy of Landscapes • www.CabarrusQuiltersGuild.com

Chamber Brew N’ Cue October 11 • 5:30-8:00pm Cabarrus Brewing Company 329 McGill Avenue N.W., Concord • The Chamber Annual BBQ is back, complete with a great meal, beer and wine, and door prizes!

• 704-782-4000; cduffey@cabarrus.biz The Listening Room October 13 • 7:30-9:00pm The Davis Theatre 65 Union Street S., Concord 704-920-2787 • An open mic night to give local talent the opportunity to perform in a casual atmosphere; hosted by Davis Domingo of the Fuzzbucket Music Company.

• Performers must apply in advance and be approved. Acts should be G-rated.

• 704-920-2787; listenroom@yahoo.com Harrisburg ARTwalk October 15 4100 Main Street, Harrisburg • Features more than 100 artists: paintings, pottery, woodwork, metal work, stained glass, jewelry, crafts and more • Live music provided by Living Worship Group, The Buzzard Luck and The Greater Charlotte Ukelale Meetup • Vendor fees go toward scholarship fund.

• 704-458-0362; artwalkintheburg@gmail.com Memory Cafe´ October 19 • Free (third Wednesday of each month) Faith Coffee & Sweets 5040 N.C. Highway 49, Harrisburg • Open to anyone experiencing dementia, their loved ones and/or their care partners.

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

• No preregistration is required.

• Michelle Marciniak: 704-698-6324; michelle.marciniakcarillonassistedliving.com 2016 North Carolina Music Hall Of Fame Induction Ceremony October 20 • 7:00-11:00pm Kannapolis Performing Arts Center A.L. Brown High School 415 E. 1st Street, Kannapolis • Induction Ceremony takes place annually; 2016 inductees are: The Avett Brothers, Band of Oz, Chuck Brown, The Carolina Chocolate Drops, Percy Heath, David Holt, Kellie Pickler and Ron Tyson.

• 704-934-2320; www.northcarolinamusichalloffame.org

CABARRUS CHRISTIAN Women’s Connection October 20 • 9:30am • $15 Cabarrus Country Club 3247 Weddington Road, Concord • Challenge by Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge of Kannapolis • 90 Days to Live by guest speaker, Cherie Nettles, who draws from an abusive childhood, health crisis and ovarian cancer to inspire audiences to live an abundant life.

• Brunch Music: Martha Campbell • For reservations (Oct. 17 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 Christmas Made In The South October 21-23 • Fri.-Sat.: 10-6; Sun. 11-5 Cabarrus Arena & Events Center 4751 N.C. Highway 49, Concord • Pottery; graceful blown-glass oil lamps; one-of-a-kind personalized ornaments for your trees; floral centerpieces; astonishing gemstone enhancers; glass beaded jewelry!

• Bring your appetite too! Enjoy specialty coffees, Savannah Cinnamon, She-Crab soup and more!

• www.madeinthesouthshows.com SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY October 22 • 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 Hilbish Ford First Responders Day October 28 • 11:00am-1:00pm Hilbish Ford 2600 S. Cannon Boulevard, Kannapolis • An event to honor our local first responders for all they do for our community • Raffles, door prizes, family fun • 704-782-4000; cduffey@cabarrus.biz Positively Ballroom Annual Costume BALL Fundraiser October 28 • 8:00pm • $25 Cabarrus Country Club 3247 Weddington Road, Concord • An evening of dancing, performance of Michael Jackson’s Thriller, The Salisbury Swing Band • Benefits Cabarrus County chapter of Cooperative Christian Ministries • 704-858-1996; www.positivelyballroom.com

Trick or Treat in the Park October 28 • 6:00-9:00pm • $3 per child Stallings Road Park 4088 Stallings Road, Harrisburg • Costume contests, games, trick-ortreating and more. Businesses can participate by decorating a booth and giving out candy; best booth wins a prize!

• 704-455-7275; www.harrisburgnc.org/departments/ Around Town Scavenger Hunt October 29 • 10:00am-8:00pm Sponsored by Lollipop Central 21 Union Street N., Concord • Comb a one-mile radius of downtown Concord for scavenger hunt items.

• Cash prizes!

• $10 registration per team with proceeds going to Cabarrus County Animal Shelter/ Humane Society • www.lollipopcentral.com GOLD HILL GHOST TOUR 2016 October 29 • 5:00-8:00pm Gold Hill Mines Historic Park 735 St. Stephens Church Road, Gold Hill • Haunted hayride with stops so visitors can get out and listen to storytellers recall haunting tales from Gold Hill’s history; shorter walking tour also available.

• www.historicgoldhill.com Kaleidoscope Cultural Arts Festival & Food Truck Rally with CANDY CRAWL October 29 • 12:00-5:00pm Corner of West Avenue and First Street, Kannapolis • Vendors will be dressed in costume and passing out candy.

• Singers, musicians, belly dancers, poets, painters, pottery makers, arts & crafts, jugglers, clowns and other forms of arts and culture come to the downtown Kannapolis streets.

• www.kannapolisarts.com DOWNTOWN CONCORD CANDY CRAWL October 31 • 3:00-5:00pm • Local merchants provide trick-or-treating and family-friendly entertainment on Union Street in downtown Concord.

• 704-784-4208; www.concorddowntown.com

October 2016 29 n

At a Glance

Antiques & Collectibles

The Depot at Gibson Mill Page 32 325 McGill Avenue N.W., Concord, NC 28027 704-787-9351 www.depotgibsonmill.com

Banking/Financial Institutions

Bank of North Carolina Page 15 3890 Main Street, Harrisburg, NC 28075 704-455-1070 271 Copperfield Blvd., Concord, NC 28025 704-723-6300 www.bankofnc.com Wells Fargo Page 8 400 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 1-800-946-9524 www.wellsfargo.com

Carpet/Flooring

Carpet To Go & More Page 2 701 Concord Parkway N., Concord, NC 28025 704-956-2866 www.carpet2go.com

Charity Events

Positively Ballroom Annual Costume Ball Page 3 October 28 Cabarrus Country Club 3247 Weddington Road, Concord, NC 28025 704-858-1996; www.positivelyballroom.com

Churches

New Hope Worship Center Page 3 452 Brookwood Ave. N.E., Concord, NC 28025 704-786-0155 www.newhopewc.org

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Cleaning Services – Office

Blue-J Page 13 Serving Cabarrus County/Charlotte Metro Area 704-589-3148 www.bluejsmallofficecleaning.com

Computer Sales, Service and Repair

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

Events and Festivals

Carolina Renaissance Festival & Artisan Marketplace Page 21 16445 Poplar Tent Road, Huntersville, NC 28078 704-896-5555 www.renfestinfo.com

Furniture Stores

Kimbrell’s Furniture Page 2 929 Concord Parkway S., Concord, NC 28027 704-782-3174 www.kimbrells.com

Land Sales

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

Pharmacies

Page 11

Cannon Pharmacy Page 31 760 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

Harrisburg Hometown Pharmacy Page 22 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

Political Candidates

Richard Hudson for Congress P.O. Box 5053, Concord, NC 28027 704-795-2012 www.richardhudsonforcongress.com

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Print & Technology Services

Modern Impressions Page 9 5029 West W.T. Harris Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28269 800-840-2554 www.modernimpressions.com

Restaurants/Catering Services

Bistro Catering & Events 48 Union Street S., Concord, NC 28025 980-621-6333 www.bistrocateringandevents.com

Theatres – Live

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Old Courthouse Theatre Page 2 49 Spring Street N.W., Concord, NC 28025 704-788-2405 www.oldcourthousetheatre.org

Medicare 101 Medicare enrollment is confusing and unnerving for seniors. Fortunately, Cannon Pharmacy is helping people understand their options in picking the best plan for them.

Josh Young, a pharmacist at Cannon Pharmacy Concord, explains. “If you’re Medicare eligible and don’t have credible coverage, you have to pay a penalty for the time spent without it.”

Medicare Part A covers hospital expenses, Part B covers other medical expenses and Part D covers prescription drugs. Medicare typically pays 80% on parts A and B, leaving the payee responsible for the remaining 20% outof-pocket. With Part D there are multiple companies a payee can choose from with different coverage options and expenses.

Fortunately, a payee can purchase extra coverage, called a Medicare supplement, that covers the 20% not covered by Medicare. Another option is a Medicare Advantage plan, also called Medicare Part C. These plans combine parts A, B and D into one plan, with monthly premiums as low as $0.

Young says it’s important to note that Medicare is not one-size-fits-all and spouses can have different plans. “Some plans can increase premiums by more than 300% or increase deductibles and co-pays,” he says. “Then again, some may not offer the same coverage they did before. Many times we’ve saved people up to $2,000 annually by tailoring the right amount of coverage for them by not enrolling for coverage they don’t need.”

Young says avoiding the donut hole is the #1 way in which a patient can save money with Medicare counseling. “We do this by utilizing therapeutic substitutions, screening for federal assistance programs, and manufacturer and federal grant monies that can further cut patient costs.”

While in the donut hole, patients are responsible for 45% of brand name medication costs and 59% of generic costs.

“If we can keep the combined (patient and insurance) cost on prescriptions to

less than $275 per month, we can keep them out of the donut hole. Our goal is to explore all plans available and pick the coverage that is exactly right, at the best cost.”

So where to begin? Young says that Cannon Pharmacy offers free Medicare

By Jason Huddle

Sponsored by Cannon Pharmacy counseling. “Call any Cannon Pharmacy and speak with a pharmacist about your Medicare coverage. We’ll be happy to help guide you through any Medicare and open enrollment needs you may have.” Medicare enrollment is October 15 through December 7. n

October 2016 31 n