Montcross Chamber Welcome Magazine by Biz Well

Dr. Travis Nixon received his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2002. He has completed a series of courses at the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education. This has enabled Dr. Nixon to stay up to date with emerging technologies as well as expand upon his knowledge. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, North Carolina Dental Society, Gaston County Dental Society and Gaston Study Club. Dr. Nixon and his wife, Dr. Stephanie Nixon are proud parents of 5 year old Alexandria, 3 year old Beckett and 2 years old Luke. They are active members of Parkwood Baptist Church in Gastonia.

CARING FOR YOUR FAMILY’S COMPLETE DENTAL NEEDS

Dr. Manish Sheladia received his DMD degree from Temple University. He has trained at the Dawson Academy where he advanced his skills in TMJ and occlusion. He has practiced dentistry in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, North Carolina Dental Society, Gaston County Dental Society and Gaston Study Club. Dr. Sheladia and his wife, Alpa Sheladia re-located from New Jersey to the Charlotte area where they are happily raising their 6 year old daughter Kira and their 3 year old son Avi.

You and your family deserve advanced dental care. That’s why Christmas Town Dentistry in McAdenville offers you comprehensive, state-of-the-art preventive, restorative and cosmetic dentistry in one convenient location. Our professional and friendly staff will ensure that your dental visit is comfortable and pleasant from start to finish. Dr. Nixon and Dr. Sheladia work to establish a customized treatment plan for each patient. It is our intent to know and educate our patients to enable them to make comprehensive decisions regarding their dental needs. FILLINGS / RESTORATIONS • DENTAL SEALANTS • DENTURES BRIDGE • DENTAL IMPLANTS • CROWNS • TOOTH EXTRACTIONS GUM DISEASE LASER THERAPY • NON-SURGICAL ROOT CANAL TEETH WHITENING • SEDATION DENTISTRY BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

131 MAIN STREET P.O. BOX 520 McADENVILLE, NC 28101 704.824.4311

WWW.CHRISTMASTOWNDENTISTRY.COM

FAX: 704.824.8128

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On The Cover >>> This stunning aerial photograph, taken by Brett Osborne of Clear Sky Images is looking west into Gaston County from the I-85 Catawba bridge.

Neil Brock & Assoc Inc Neil Brock brockg3@nationwide.com 9 N Main St Belmont, NC 28012 (704) 829-6868

William K. Gary & Assoc Inc Bill Gary garyw1@nationwide.com 124 S Main St Mount Holly, NC 28120 (704) 827-3151

CITP Carolina IT Professionals, Inc. 100% Woman Owned

Certified Women’s Business Enterprise

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243 West Catawba Ave. • Mt. Holly, NC 28120

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Phone: 704-827-8102 • Fax: 704-827-0199 Toll Free: 877-827-8102 • Fax: 877-825-0199 www.citpinc.com

335 E. Catawba St. • Belmont, NC 28012 • 704.461.1844 www.TheGlassGuruofGaston.com - F R E E E S T I M AT E S -

www.montcrossareachamber.com

contents

4 5 5 6

Gaston County Gaston County Visitors Center

Chamber Launching Major Entrepreneur Initiatives in 2012 of Chamber Plan

8 Montcross Chamber Board of Directors and Staff Forward Together Campaign Honor Roll All Roads Lead To One Belmont Belmont Information Fire Departments Police Departments Post Offices

This universally accessible fishing pier is at the newly constructed lake at George Poston Park. The lake is stocked with an assortment of popular fish species so come out and throw your line in.

Attention and Sets New Standards

Gaston County Economic Development

8 Business Recruiting Key Part

9 10 11 15 15 15

15 Libraries 16 Mount Holly Captures National

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

17 18 19 19 20 24 25 28 29 31 32 34

Mount Holly Information Recycling Centers Transportation Drivers License & Registration

35 37 37 38 39 39 40

McAdenville Information

41 42 43 44

Stanley Information

10 Fun-Filled Attractions The Cramerton Boom Cramerton Information Lowell Steps Into The Future Lowell Information Local Parks Local Schools McAdenville Combines The Future and Past

Holy Angels Sisters of Mercy Healthcare Gaston County Health Dept. Department of Social Services Harper Park Revitalizes Community Ties to Stanley

Phone Numbers & Links Board of Elections Area Map

www.mattamyhomes.com www.montcrossareachamber.com

gaston county Gaston County is located in the South-Central Piedmont section of North Carolina. On it’s east border is the Catawba River and Mecklenburg County, towards the west is Cleveland County, on the north is Lincoln County and the south is bordered by York County, South Carolina. Gaston was formed from a lower portion of Lincoln County in 1846. With its proximity to the bustling city of Charlotte, Gaston County residents and visitors truly enjoy the peaceful suburban lifestyle the area offers. Beautiful neighborhoods, extensive shopping areas, top-rate educational institutions, high-quality healthcare services and a steady economic environment are just a few reasons Gaston County continues to attract new residents and businesses.

Gaston County

Town Land Areas in Eastern Gaston County Belmont

8.52 square miles

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Cramerton

3.83 square miles

The County has a temperate climate characterized by moderate temperature variations and moderate humidity. The average temperature is about 60° ranging from an average winter temperature of 43° to a summer average in the 80’s. The average annual precipitation is 44 inches, and the average relative humidity is 54 percent. The Catawba River with its South Fork provides the major natural drainage for the area.

Lowell

2.69 square miles

McAdenville

1.49 square miles

Mount Holly

8.50 square miles

Stanley

2.27 square miles

There are countless reasons why so many people call Gaston County home and the real estate market is just one of them. Gaston County offers a diverse selection of housing. Residents can choose among historical neighborhoods, golf course developments, lake communities, apartments, condominiums and rural housing developments. Neighborhoods with meticulously manicured lawns, gardens in bloom with colors accentuated by the sun and tree-lined streets all add to the allure of living here. Gaston County is home to a diverse, vibrant and growing business community. The Montcross Area Chamber works proactively to develop many partnerships and initiatives with the local towns. These efforts have created a positive and inviting environment necessary to attract new investments, as well as support established businesses. The local business community continues to grow each day, offering residents and visitors more and more services all done with a smile. 4

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Total County

364 square miles

Town Populations in Eastern Gaston County Belmont ........................................................... 10,461 Cramerton ........................................................ 4,165 Lowell ................................................................... 3,526 McAdenville ......................................................... 651 Mount Holly ................................................. 13,656 Stanley ................................................................. 3,556 Total County .............................................. 210,477

620 N. Main Street Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4044 www.visitgaston.org The best place for first-time visitors to begin learning about Gaston County is the Visitor Center operated by Gaston County Travel and Tourism at 620 North Main Street in Belmont. That's at I-85 Exit 26 (Belmont Abbey College). There you'll find friendly folks to answer your questions and supply all the maps and brochures you need. The Visitor Center is open 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays.

Gaston County Economic Development Commission P.O. Box 2339 Gastonia, NC 28053 704-825-4046 www.gaston.org The Gaston County Economic Development Commission (GCEDC) is dedicated to attracting and retaining desirable employers to continue improving and diversifying economic opportunities in the County.

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Gaston County Visitor Center

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21 E. Woodrow Ave Belmont , NC 28012

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A new era is dawning in the 52-year history of the Montcross Area Chamber. After almost two years of planning and fund-raising, the Chamber is launching major initiatives in 2012 to grow jobs in Gaston County by helping existing small businesses succeed and grow, promoting the establishment of new small businesses and recruiting businesses to the Montcross Area of eastern Gaston. Thirty-one businesses, foundations and individuals have invested in the Montcross Area Chamber’s five-year vision called Forward Together, committing to date more than $372,000 to fund programs in support of small businesses here. “Ours is a small business Chamber,” said Montcross Area Chamber President Ted Hall, “and we are convinced it will be small businesses like those in eastern Gaston County that will lead our region and our country out of the recession and back to economic prosperity.” Chamber staff member Teresa Rankin has assumed a new role as Vice President of Business Services. She is the Chamber’s leading resource for small businesses, helping them find and utilize the help they need to survive and succeed in difficult times. Collaborating partners in this effort are the Small Business Center at Gaston College, the Gaston County Economic Development Commission, the Center for Teresa Rankin Entrepreneurship at Belmont Abbey Vice President of College, the Ben Craig Center at UNCC Business Services and the Small Business Administration.

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Chamber launching major entrepreneur initiatives in 2012 Presenters at the first Entrepreneurs Roundtable were (from left) Rebecca Johns of Creative Travel, Vince Hill of Caravan Coffee, Scott Toal of Short Run Pro and D.J. Toal of Bisque Imports and Slumpy’s.

Entrepreneurs Roundtable “The Montcross Area Chamber will become a champion of entrepreneurship in this area,” Hall said. An Entrepreneurs Roundtable established early this year is a key strategy for achieving that objective. Hall describes an entrepreneurs roundtable as a support group for new small businesses and those with dreams of starting businesses. “Through the roundtable, experienced and accomplished entrepreneurs become mentors for the next generation of entrepreneurs,” he said. The first public meeting of the Entrepreneurs Roundtable on March 27 attracted 50 people either already in business or with an interest in starting a business. A panel of four successful local entrepreneurs candidly discussed their business successes and failures and responded to questions. Large public meetings are planned at least quarterly, with smaller group sessions between. The volunteer leader of the Entrepreneurs Roundtable initiative is Marc Burns, a Montcross Area Chamber Board member and owner of Carolinas Computer Solutions in Belmont. Business Services VP Teresa Rankin provides Chamber staff Marc Burns support for the Roundtable. Volunteer Leader of the Entrepreneurs Roundtable

GEKEEPER W W.C O T TA

S O N L IN E .C

www.awenmarketing.com

Entrepreneur Institute

www.awenmarketing.com

Growing out of the Roundtable will be an Entrepreneur Institute that will bring noted entrepreneurs to eastern Gaston County to speak and lead workshops. “The institute will provide opportunities for budding entrepreneurs in our area to learn from those who have experienced the trials and tribulations of starting new and innovative businesses and growing them to become important employers and contributors in their communities,” Hall said. “Promoting the Roundtable and Institute will help brand the Montcross Area of eastern Gaston County as a leading environment for entrepreneurial development,” he said. “The quality lifestyles offered by our inviting small communities combined with close proximity to the financial and technological capital of the region in Charlotte makes eastern Gaston County the ideal location for visionary entrepreneurs to start and grow new businesses.

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www.montcrossareachamber.com

Business recruiting key part of Chamber plan

Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Staff EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Delta Sanders Habitat for Humanity

Written by Ted Hall President, Montcross Area Chamber

Helping businesses prosper and expand is one way to create desperately needed jobs in Gaston County. Starting new businesses is another. And a third way to generate new jobs here is to recruit needed businesses to move to the area. As part of its five-year Forward Together plan, the Montcross Area Chamber has assembled and is leading a team dedicated to identifying community needs and attracting new businesses to meet the needs. President Ted Hall represents the Chamber on the team. A Business Recruiting Council has been formed through a partnership between the Montcross Area Chamber, the City of Belmont, the Town of Cramerton and the Town of McAdenville. These towns adopted a service Ted Hall agreement, contracting with the President, Montcross Chamber to assist the municipal Area Chamber governments in economic development by working to support existing businesses, helping start businesses and recruiting new businesses. Representatives appointed by the governing boards in each town serve on the business recruiting panel along with others identified by the group because of their relevant skills or knowledge. The opportunity to contract with the Chamber in this project was offered to all six towns in the Montcross Area of eastern Gaston County. Belmont, Cramerton and McAdenville accepted the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proposal and became investors in the Forward Together program. Representing Belmont on the panel are Mayor Pro Tem Ron Foulk, Councilman Bill Toole, Sam Stowe of Pinsto Properties and Shannon Thomas of Creative Solutions. Town Manager Michael Peoples represents Cramerton, and Mayor Farrell Buchanan represents McAdenville.

Brad Burns Duke Energy Jeff Stanton Stanton Enterprise

Timothy Roberts, Chair Cottage Keepers

DIRECTORS (1-Year Terms) Leeanna London Hannon Orthodontics

Marc Burns, Treasurer Carolinas Computer Solutions

Drew Jones NC Farm Bureau Insurance

Joe Keith, Secretary Gaston College

Porter Rhoton Fletcher & Rhoton, P.A.

Julie Roper, Past-Chair PSNC Energy DIRECTORS (3rd Year) Lynn Peppler Hampton Inn - Belmont @ Montcross

Michael Peoples Cramerton City Manager Danny Jackson Mount Holly City Manager

Paul Lowrance McKenney Family Dealerships

Frank Guida Mayor of Stanley

Sherry Collins The Gaston Gazette

Farrell Buchanan Mayor of McAdenville

Walter Payner ImageMark Business Services

Ben Blackburn Lowell City Manager

DIRECTORS (2nd Year) Vince Hill Caravan Coffee

Chad Brown Gaston County Commissioners

Peter Cassidy Carolinas RehabilitationMount Holly

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ADVISORY DIRECTORS Barry Webb Belmont City Manager

Mitchell Johnson BB&T - Belmont

Shannon Prince Holy Angels

Doug Luckett CaroMont Health

Brian Herre, Chair-Elect Citizens South Bank

Greg Botner Wilbert Plastic Services

PO Box 368 â&#x20AC;˘ Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5307 www.MontcrossAreaChamber.com

DIRECTORS (1st Year) Brad Thomas Creative Solutions

Candi Lethcoe Stress Free Home Care

Dick Cromlish Gaston County Economic Development Commission STAFF Ted Hall President Teresa Rankin VP Business Services Deborah Ray Benton Office Manager

7204 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-6444

CAMPAIGN HONOR ROLL Platinum Division Investors ($50,000 +) City of Belmont CaroMont Health

Gold Division Investors ($25,000 - $49,999) Citizens South Bank First National Bank Keith Hawthorne Ford The Kimbrell Foundation Ron & Katherine Harper & Stress Free Home Care

Silver Division Investors ($5,000 - $24,999) Carolinas Computer Solutions Cottage Keepers McKenney Family Dealerships PSNC Energy Watson Insurance Robert Lee Stowe, Jr. Foundation Wilbert Plastic Services Town of Cramerton Maya Hotels – Holiday Inn Express of Mount Holly Belmont Federal Savings & Loan Town of McAdenville

Bronze Division Investors (<$5,000) Caravan Coffee Dr. Joe Keith – Gaston College Chick-fil-A of Belmont Empire Ceilings & Floors Creative Solutions Charlie & Dot Martin Advanced Copier Technologies Enterprise Rent-A-Car of Belmont Sherry Collins Mr. & Mrs. Gene Sanders Todd & Noelle Van Der Meid Dick & Sandra Cromlish Ted & Freda Hall

s • Honeymoons • Business Travel • Groups • Missiona e s i u r C • r y Trav ions el Vacat

ktabelmont@gmail.com www.kingtigercharlotte.com People of all ages, physical fitness, and backgrounds will enjoy and benefit from the practice of Tae Kwon Do. Call or email to schedule your FREE Trial Class. COURTESY • INTEGRITY • PERSERVERANCE S E L F C O N T R O L • I N D O M I TA B L E S P I R I T OTHER CHARLOTTE LOCATIONS: KING TIGER N. CHARLOTTE 3016 B Prosperity Church Rd. Charlotte, NC 28269 704.717.0903

KING TIGER S. CHARLOTTE 4321 Park Rd. Charlotte, NC 28209 704.561.8532

KING TIGER LAKE NORMAN 16525 Birkdale Commons Pkwy Huntersville, NC 28078 704.892.1880

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KING TIGER MINT HILL 6904-510 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. Mint Hill, NC 28227 704.545.0757

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32 N. MAIN STREET Belmont, North Carolina 28012

1 Room and Larger Offices for Lease at Historic Wachovia Building in Downtown Belmont, NC. $400 per month all-in Rent, Move-In Ready. “Virtual tour on www.youtube.com search 32 N Main Belmont”

32 North Main Office Building

Rebecca Johns President

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David Dorsch

704-825-1865

P.O. Box 242222, Charlotte, NC 28224

www.creativetraveler.com 34 W. Myrtle St. • Belmont, NC 28012

We are travel educators who go the extra mile to make business travel pleasant and vacation travel extraordinary

704-608-8978 daviddorsch@gmail.com www.montcrossareachamber.com

Adrian Miller, Assistant City Manager and Barry Webb, Belmont City Manager

All Roads Lead To One

Belmont Written by Rebecca T. Dickinson

Belmont set the standard for urbanized small towns to pump personality back into downtown buildings. “Belmont was one of the first cities to adopt a zoning code that used what they call ‘new urbanist-type philosophies’ incorporating a lot of design elements in the housing options; encouraged more density in some areas to provide a range of housing options for people coming in, because traditionally you had the big nice houses for mill management, and the little mill

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

village houses for all the employees,” said Belmont City Manager Barry Webb. A connection to Charlotte drives up the population and business growth in Belmont since it set out on its journey to become an embodiment of a modern town with ties to its past. City administration has taken groups from other cities and towns on guided tours. Representatives from Spartanburg will soon look at what Belmont has accomplished.

Belmont is out to achieve more. Since its inception, communities within Belmont have identified themselves as “North Belmont,” a student at Belmont Abby College, or from “East Belmont.” Interstate-85 and Wilkinson Blvd. separate North Belmont from the central part of the city. City council and administration plan to raise the bar once again by bringing together its diverse communities through parks, business, and history. It seeks to unite and show all cities surrounding Gastonia and Charlotte it has even more to offer.

“It is a quality of life not offered in every town,” said Adrian Miller, Assistant City Manager

Incorporated in 1895 Population 2010 Census: 10,076

Tax Rate $0.4750 per $100 valuation

City Hall 115 N. Main Street Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday ....................... 704-825-5586 www.cityofbelmont.org www.visitbelmontnc.org

City Manager: Barry Webb Mayor: Richard Boyce

Photo by Rebecca T. Dickinson

Belmont Rail Trail is a planned greenway to connect Belmont Abby College and Sisters of Mercy to the downtown. Miller said it will make life easier for students who don’t have a car to access Belmont shopping and restaurants. It also allows for residents and business owners to attend events at Belmont Abby College. The Rail Trail will replace the inactive railroad tracks that run from North Main St. to the college. Physical activity and connection will extend beyond the new rail trail. In addition to Belmont’s five current parks with fields, the parks and recreation department and city council have planned for more. Participating children need more space. Each department presents its annual needs to city council through Belmont’s Capital Improvement Plan. It is for high dollar projects, and city council discusses priorities at a yearly retreat. “The parks have been at the forefront of that discussion for several years,” Webb said. In 2007, city council put a $12 million bond referendum on the voting ballot.

City Council Ron Foulk, Mayor Pro Tem Charles B. Flowers, Sr. Charlie Martin Martha Stowe Bill Toole City Council meets at 7:00 pm the first Monday of each month at City Hall. All meetings are open to the public.

Utilities Pay water and sewer bills at City Hall, 115 N. Main Street during normal business hours or mail to P.O. Box 431, Belmont, NC

Garbage, Recycling & Yard Debris Service Waste Pro ............................ 704-792-0800 or visit www.cityofbelmont.org

Other Frequent Numbers Police ..................................... 704-825-3792 Fire ........................................ 704-825-0502 ........................................ 704-825-2771 Post Office ............................. 704-825-6139 Library ................................... 704-825-5426 Parks & Recreation ................ 704-825-8191

www.montcrossareachamber.com

Belmont

Seventy percent of voters approved it, but the slow economy stalled all park projects. Now the city is moving on with the soccer and a riverfront park designed primarily as a walking park. The city has taken out a bank loan for the soccer park. Council and Parks and Recreation are not working alone. The Parks and Recreation Citizens Advisory Board, composed of 12 Belmont residents, come up with priorities for the projects through its talks with other city citizens. “The demand for mixed-use sports is exceeding our ability to serve it,” Webb said. According to Miller, the soccer program has grown by 50 percent in four years. The city is running out of room as to where teams might play, because soccer and baseball are played in the same season. “We’ve been using fields outside of Belmont, and we’re trying to find every field we can,” Miller said. The city is focused on all events and parks beyond the downtown. “You’ll find some people who grew up here, historically, don’t like those kind of changes,” Webb said. “If Belmont hadn’t changed, adapted, and encouraged new growth, the town would’ve just died.” Highway 273 separates East Belmont and Main Street. The new soccer park will be located one block away from the East Belmont downtown on Brook Street, and the riverfront park will attract new traffic on foot, bikes, and in cars. “There still is enough land right around there for infield development whether that be new residential development, townhomes, mix-use or some retail,” Miller said. “With the closing of the Chronicle Mill here on Catawba Street, what

The Belmont Parks and Recreation Department provides many athletic opportunities for youth ages 3 - 15 in basketball, baseball, golf, soccer, fast pitch softball, tennis, and volleyball ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

River Park 8-acre park, will include walking trails, two picnic shelters, natural playground, parking lot, dock for fishing and non-motorized water craft, and restrooms. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Brook Street Park 7-acre soccer field complex, will include two large soccer fields that can be turned from playing adult games to smaller fields for youth play; plus a walking trail, restrooms, and parking. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Belmont Mayor, Richard Boyce, attends the Juneteenth Celebration held at Stowe Park in downtown Belmont

Vendors line Main Street for the annual Fall Festival event

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ranuccis.com

Tervis Tumblers • Tyler Candles Mud-Pie • Caswell-Massey Outdoor Bird Houses Door Mats • Lotion Candles Bird Baths • Fire Pots w/Fuel Car Tags with Decals • Baby Gifts • Taggies • Wedding Gifts Wine Accessories • Seasonal Gifts • Old Fashion Candies and Nuts Coffee • Republic of Tea • Hostess Gifts • And Much More Special order Tervis Tumblers with names, dates or messages

Ink Pens made from the wood of demolished mills in the area

Poochie Dotson Owner

Laser Engraving Available

Scott Keuthan Store Manager

132 N. MAIN STREET • BELMONT, NC • 704-825-1116

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HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 10AM-6PM • SATURDAY 10AM-4PM

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www.montcrossareachamber.com

Belmont

The Historical Society renovated a mill house behind its headquarters on Catawba Street, which it uses to educate Belmont citizens. “We’re in a good position to handle the road that is going to come, and we have an attractive community, so we will have growth,” Miller said.

happens with that will help bridge the gap between downtown Belmont and East Belmont.” Belmont is hoping to see a mixed-use neighborhood in its future. The neighborhood would feature more room for retail and families. According to Webb, Belmont has been fortunate with its core business community. Despite rough economic waters in 2008 and after, businesses have survived. The streets are full of parking beyond Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The Belmont Merchants Association catches the attention of everyone with concerts such as the Friday Night Live events in the summer. Webb said the Merchants Association knows what is good for one business is good for another.

32 N. Main Street • Belmont, NC

www.BelmontNCRealty.com Dancing the night away at one of the fun-filled Friday Night Live events in downtown Belmont

The Belmont Historical Society keeps the city – at the heart of its business center – connected to the community’s roots. “They want to preserve and be sure people understand where this community came from, why it developed, why it is here, and what created it,” Webb said.

26 North Main St. Belmont, NC 704-825-5987 www.happydogcafe.net www.facebook.com/happydogcafe

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Fire Stations

Police Stations

Belmont Fire 301 Keener Boulevard Belmont, NC 704-825-0502

Belmont Police 201 Chronicle Street Belmont, NC 704-825-3792

Community Volunteer Fire 1873 Perfection Avenue Belmont, NC 704-827-8249

Cramerton Police 155 N. Main Street Cramerton, NC 704-824-8943

Cramerton Volunteer Fire 140 Eighth Avenue Cramerton, NC 704-824-3915

Lowell Police 101 W. 1st Street Lowell, NC 704-824-8540

East Gaston Volunteer Fire 108 Arrowchem Way Mt. Holly, NC 704-827-8861

Mount Holly Police 125 East Charlotte Avenue Mount Holly, NC 704-827-4343

Lowell Volunteer Fire 202 Groves Street Lowell, NC 704-824-3357

Stanley Police P.O. Box 279 Stanley, NC 704-263-4778

Lucia Riverbend Volunteer 14124 Lucia Rivervend Hwy. Mt. Holly, NC 704-827-5206

Gaston County Police Department 420 West Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 28053 704-866-3300 www.gastongov.com/ departments/police

McAdenville Volunteer Fire 144 Wesleyan Drive McAdenville NC 704-824-3922 Mount Holly Fire & Rescue 6433 Killian Avenue Mount Holly, NC 704-822-2927 New Hope Volunteer Fire 4804 S. New Hope Road Belmont, NC 704-825-7019 South Point Volunteer Fire 2300 South Point Road Belmont, NC 704-835-3166 Stanley Fire & Rescue 224 S. Main Street Stanley, NC 704-263-4777

Post Offices Belmont Post Office 208 Glenway Street Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-6139 Cramerton Post Office 111 Center Street Cramerton, NC 28032 704-824-7411 Lowell Post Office 206 E. First Street Lowell, NC 28098 704-824-1101

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Gaston County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office 425 North Marietta Street Gastonia, 28053 704-869-6800 www.gastongov.com/ departments/sheriff

Libraries Individuals who live, work, attend school, or own property in either Gaston or Lincoln County may obtain a library card at no charge. One form of official identification valid driver's license, utility bill, etc., is required to obtain a library card. Out-of-Region Card Fee: $10.00/yr. www.glrl.lib.nc.us Main Library 1555 East Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-868-2164 Belmont Branch 111 Central Avenue Belmont, NC 704-825-5426

McAdenville Post Office 111 Main Street McAdenville, NC 28101 704-824-0915

Lowell Branch 203 McAdenville Road Lowell, NC 704-824-1266

Mount Holly Post Office 806 W. Central Avenue Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-6415

Mount Holly Branch 245 W. Catawba Avenue Mount Holly, NC 704-827-3581

Stanley Post Office 301 Old Mount Holly Road Stanley, NC 28164 704-263-2058

Stanley Branch 205 N. Peterson Street Stanley, NC 704-263-4166 www.montcrossareachamber.com

Mount Holly Captures National Attention and Sets New Standards Danny Jackson, City Manager

Written by Rebecca T. Dickinson

Photo by Rebecca T. Dickinson

Mount Holly knows what it takes to plan. The city council understands what it means to take on large and small goals and break them down in a full scale vision plan. According to City Manager Danny Jackson, the city council has encouraged citizens to express their thoughts for Mount Holly’s future. “That pretty much sets the future for Mount Holly in terms of how we grow,” Jackson said. “It was a very engaging and public process.” The Mount Holly Community Planning Project, otherwise nicknamed the strategic vision plan, is an overall proposal which contains several detailed projects, visions and goals to mold Mount Holly into a future leader. It encompasses development, environmental and commercial ideas. Mount Holly worked with a team from the University of North Carolina-Charlotte to create the plan. The council adopted the strategic vision plan in 2008.

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“The quality of life would be better,” Jackson said. “The impact, economically, would be better.” One manufacturing plant in Mount Holly has already made an impact in 2011 and 2012. According to PR Newswire, Daimler Truck Plant on N. Main Street - with the new standards of its parent company Daimler Trucks North America - is part of a “first ever program to reduce heavy and medium duty truck greenhouse gas emissions.” The plant, in the city since 1979, has sold freightliner trucks that run on natural gas and with less noise.

It was enough to capture President Barack Obama’s attention when he came to speak at Daimler in Mount Holly on Wednesday, March 7, 2012. “I hear you sold your one thousandth natural gas truck last November—the first company to reach that milestone,” Obama said to a crowd at Daimler. “And it was made right here in Mount Holly. And last year, this plant added more than one thousand workers, hiring back a lot of folks who were laid off during the recession.”

Incorporated in 1879 Population 2010 Census: 13,656

Tax Rate $0.5300 per $100 valuation

City Hall Office 400 East Central Ave. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday ....................... 704-951-3000 www.mtholly.us

City Manager: Danny Jackson Mayor: Bryan Hough Photo provided by Bill Ward www.bwasap.com

President Barrack Obama made an apprearance at the Daimler truck plant in Mount Holly to speak about the importance of improving the economy and energy.

The city did not have long to prepare for the president’s arrival. According to Jackson, the city received a call from Secret Service on the Thursday before Obama’s visit. “The recognition locally and nationally has been good, because you have the President of the United States come to your town,” Jackson said. “That is a huge accomplishment in my mind. We’re thankful he did come and recognize Mount Holly.” City council and other organizations, such as the Mount Holly Community Development Foundation, have worked to promote their own environmental initiatives to further improve the city’s growing green reputation. In the South Gateway Plan—part of the strategic vision plan—Mount Holly prepares for higher standards of development in both industry and neighborhoods so the city can maintain clean resources in Mountain Island Lake and in other water supplies. The lake provides drinking water for Mount Holly, Gastonia, and Charlotte. “When people develop along that water source, the restrictions are greater,” Jackson said. “When we increase the buffer in that area, as an example, at one point was thirty feet from the water source. We increased it to one hundred feet. That exceeded the state standards for development along the waterways.” According to the MHCDF, more than 90 miles of trails will be part of the Carolina Thread Trail in Gaston County. The Greenway Plan is one of the newest projects in action. Jackson said the city hopes to complete it this year.

City Council David Moore, Mayor Pro Tem Jerry Bishop Carolyn Breyare J. Jason Gowen Jim Hope Perry Toomey City Council meets at 7:00 pm on the 2nd Monday and 6:30pm on the 4th Monday of every month. The 2nd Monday is the monthly business meeting and the 4th Monday is the council roundtable worksession. Meetings are open to the public and are held at City Hall.

Utilities Water and sewer billing at City Hall, 300 East Central Ave. ............. 704-827-3931

Trash Service The city offers curbside garbage pickup. Residents are assigned a collection day by street routes. .......................... 704-827-9726

Other Frequent Numbers Police ..................................... 704-827-4343 Fire & Rescue ........................ 704-822-2927 Post Office ............................ 704-827-6415 Library .................................... 704-827-3581 Parks & Recreation ................ 704-951-3005 www.montcrossareachamber.com

Mount Holly

The Catawba River Greenway has cost Mount Holly’s taxpayers nothing. MHCDF continues to raise money to construct the trails. The city will build it. It is a ten to eleven mile stretch connecting Tuckaseege Park to Mountain Island Lake Park. Another scheduled project also thinks of city residents’ health. Jackson said the state regulators approved a certificate for CaroMont Health to build an emergency services center across the street from city hall.

a part of this community because of what it has to offer.” Mount Holly has made improvements with its land use and building regulations. In 2007, Mount Holly renovated a former textile mill and turned it into a state of the art city hall. The two-story structure became an example of the crossbreed of history and the modern building standard. “The city adopted design standards in particular for downtown, and that was extended when we created a new plan to extend our downtown from what it normally was,” Jackson said. Quality development looks for places where standards are high, he added. The city wants to capture the old architecture and A rendering of CaroMont Health’s $22 million MedPlex improve it. In order to attract emergency facility to be built on Highway 27 in Mount Holly. new businesses to older buildings, the city developed a marketing plan “We hope to increase the quality along with the new standards. It did not of life; to affect the quality of life whereby have any architecture standards prior to we can be sustainable, self-contained,” the city’s new planning. Jackson said,“… to make it a place where Hair salons, small stores, coffee the people that already are here would shops and restaurants make up most enjoy and would be a place where people of the businesses Mount Holly has from abroad would want to come and be

welcomed in its city limits. “We as citizens have to understand we need to patronize these businesses so they can remain here for the long run,” Jackson said.

Browse and purchase the work of local artisans at the Catawba River Artisan Art Gallery. Choose from beautiful pieces such as pottery, jewelry, stained glass, photography, painting and more.

Recycling Centers The following sites accept all materials, including garbage & yard waste. Hours: Monday - Saturday 7:30am - 5:30pm Sunday 1:00pm - 5:30pm Crowders Creek 1120 CP Groves Road, Gastonia .................................................. 704-866-4794 Hardin 3155 Philadelphia Church Road, Dallas .................................................. 704-922-5343 New Hope 235 Lake Wylie Road, Belmont .................................................. 704-825-1252 Riverbend 146 Mountain Island Road, Mt. Holly .................................................. 704-827-5327 Tryon 2755 Tryon Courthouse Rd / Hwy 274, Bessemer City ............................ 704-629-4326 The following site accepts only limited materials for recycling (this includes aluminum cans, plastic bottles, glass bottles, steel cans, newspaper, cardboard, and mixed paper) Hours: Monday - Saturday 7:30am - 5:30pm Closed Sunday Farmer's Market Recycling Center 410 E. Long Ave., Gastonia ........ 704-853-8411

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Transportation Gaston County provides access to many transportation options including air, highway and rail systems. With over 78,000 miles, North Carolina has the largest statemaintained highway system in the U.S.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport • Sixth busiest airport in the world (in aircraft movements) • 11th nationally in passenger numbers • As the second largest hub on the east coast, CLT offered nonstop service to 138 destinations and averaged 673 daily departures in 2011. 5501 Josh Birmingham Parkway Charlotte, NC 28208 704-359-4900 www.charlotteairport.com

Bus Service Gastonia Transit ..................................................... 704-866-6855 Provides regular, fixed route bus service Monday thru Saturday. There is no service on Sundays. Call for schedules and details.

Park and Ride Looking for a way to save on gas? Check out the Charlotte Area Transit’s Park and Ride. Park at any Park and Ride location around the region and catch your bus, vanpool or carpool.

robertblackinsurance.com bobby@robertblackinsurance.com

Abbey Plaza Shopping Center 601 Park St., Belmont, NC • Routes: 85x

Railroad Service Amtrak - Gastonia Station Building 350 Hancock Street • Gastonia, NC 28054 1-800-872-7245 www.amtrak.com

Drivers License & Registration Driver's License Office 2560 W. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 28052 704-853-5372

Driver's License Office 785 West Charlotte Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-9486

NC Motor Vehicle License Plate Agency Catawba 300 Prince Street Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-7458

The Cloisters 801 South Main Street Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-822-6366 www.southwoodrealty.com

Riverfront 3012 Riverchase Drive Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-820-0205

1471 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 28054 704-864-4856 www.ncdot.org/DMV www.montcrossareachamber.com

fun-filled attractions

Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Located on 400 acres this botanical garden is located just south of Belmont. Features include an orchid conservatory, nine theme gardens, 1-mile nature trail, gift shop, and much more. This is truly a must see for all ages.

2 Gaston County Museum of Art & History Located in the former Hoffman Hotel, built in 1852. The museum holds over 5,000 objects, 20,000 documents, and over 400,000 photos which span the period from the 1500’s through the 20th Century. Admission is free.

6500 South New Hope Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4490

131 West Main Street Dallas, NC 704-922-7681 www.gastoncountymuseum.org

Belmont Historical Society, Inc. Historical exhibits, records and a rather large collection of photo’s, videos, books, and artifacts fill one of Belmont’s oldest homes, which is called a Cultural and Heritage Learning Center. Behind the center, a 1920’s mill village house has been restored. Admission is free but donations are accepted.

40 Catawba Street Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4848 www.belmontnc-hs.org

Catawba River Artisans A group of regional artisans who have collaborated and pooled their talents, energy and financial resources to create an outlet to display and sell their art. This gallery is located in downtown Mount Holly and features medias such as stained glass, photography, pottery, jewelry, baskerty, sculpture and more!

128 S. Main Street Mount Holly, NC 28120 www.catawbariverartisans.com

Schiele Museum of Natural History & Planetarium Exceptional opportunities for visitors of all ages to see the region’s rocks and minerals, hills and rivers, & plants and animals. Includes the largest collections of land mammal species in the Southeast. Visitors can see rotating planets, moons, galexies, comets, nebulae, asteroids and black holes across the domed ceiling in the planetarium.

500 E. Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, NC 704-866-6908 www.schielemuseum.org

Brevard Station Museum Visitors can browse numerous historical artifacts and information pertaining to the region around the town of Stanley, NC. There is an abundance of collections displayed, as well as an area for visitors to look through genealogy and family records. Admission is free.

112 Main Street Stanley, NC 28012 704-263-9801 www.brevardstation.com

American Military Museum Located in the Memorial Hall in downtown Gastonia. This museum houses a large collection of military and war-related memorabilia. Featured items include uniforms, medals, flags weapons, photos and other memorabilia from all wars and services. Models of ships, planes, tanks and other military vehicles can be seen by visitors. Hours are Sundays from 1:00pm-5:00pm and by appointment. Admission is free.

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109 W. 2nd Avenue Gastonia, NC 28052 704-866-6068

US National Whitewater Center

Located on the banks of the Catawba River across from Mount Holly. This state-of-the art facility offers a wide variety of outdoor recreation and fun such as whitewater rafting, rock climbing, eco trekking, as well as 14 miles of biking, hiking and running trails.

820 Hawfield Road Charlotte, NC 28214 704-391-3900 www.usnwc.org

Abbington Woods

9 Photo provided by Steve Rankin, McAdenville, NC

Christmas Town USA With almost a half million lights decorating some 400 trees throughout town, McAdenville is a popular local attraction each December. Ranked as #7 in Yahoo’s Top Ten Christmas Attractions in 2011, thousands of visitors drive or walk the nearly two mile route through town to view this spectacular holiday display. Starting in 2011, live entertainment has been added to the event as well as appearances by Santa.

This quiet 51 lot neighborhood is conveniently located in beautiful Belmont. Gordon Builders can customize one of their many ranch plans, you can bring your own floor plan or let Guy Gordon do a design build for your dream home. There are lots available for sale and you can bring your own builder.

Belmon t Living a t it’s finest!

• Convenient Access to Belmont, Mt. Holly & McAdenville • Spacious & Innovative Ranch Plans CONTACT: • Homes Priced From The $180’s Sandra Gellner Realtor / Broker • Granite Tops & Hardwood Floors Century 21 Murhpy & Rudolph • Ask About 100% USDA Financing 704-913-0119 • Large Wooded Lots

www.abbingtonwoods.com

www.mcadenville-christmastown.com

Crowders Mountain State Park

Located on the western edge of Gaston County. The two peaks, Crowder’s Mountain and King’s Pinnacle, are remnants of an ancient mountain range. Activities include hiking, rock climbing, backcountry camping, fishing, canoeing, picnicking, bird watching, educational programs, and much more!

522 Park Office Lane, Kings Mountain, NC 28086 704-853-5375 www.ncparks.gov

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For more information about local attractions visit these websites: www.visitgaston.org www.co.gaston.nc.us www.visitbelmontnc.org

801 Park St. • Belmont • 704-825-8600

Choose Chick-fil-A® Catering For Your Next Business or Social Event Our Catering Menu Offers Many Choices For Small To Large Groups. Enjoy One Of Our Packaged Meal Options Or Choose From Our Popular Chick-fil-A® Trays. Don’t Forget Your Gallon Of Tea or Lemonade!!

www.montcrossareachamber.com

www.visitgaston.org

Michael Peoples, Town Manager

The Cramerton Boom Photo by Rebecca T. Dickinson

Written by Rebecca T. Dickinson

The Cramerton Police Department operated from a three bedroom apartment for more than one year. Most officers chose to work inside their cars instead of checking into the small office space. The department was waiting for the $1.44 million renovation completion of town hall. “We’re ecstatic to be back in the building,” said Greg Ratchford, Cramerton Chief of Police. “We spent the last eighteen months in a three bedroom apartment … It’s been a challenge, but we made it back here and we are very happy with our facilities.” Ratchford added it is the first time in 20 years the police department has had hot water on the top floor. The new police department has more. With 7,500 square feet of new space, Cramerton police have state of the art offices, a large training room, an interview room, and men and women’s locker rooms. After the Cramerton Board of Commissioners and town staff worked in the community center, administration reopened the doors of its restored home in March 2012 and hosted a ribbon cutting on April 5, 2012. A USDA Rural Development loan paid to repair the backbone of the former mill 24

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Cramerton’s Town Hall after a $1.44 million renovation to bring the historic building up to modern standards including adding an elevator for easy access.

headquarters, an upgrade of conference rooms and the board’s meeting room. Today, this building which Peoples calls and asset to the town and it’s unique history, is the joint home of Cramerton Police Department and Town Hall.

Cramerton town staff and community organizations stayed busy in 2010 and 2011 as they worked with Gaston County Schools to plan for the first new high school in 20 years. Stuart W. Cramer High School is positioned on Hubbard Street and Lakewood Road where the North Carolina Department of Transportation is currently working to make improvements. Between morning school traffic, extracurricular activities, the regular traffic on Wilkinson Blvd., and a new mix use neighborhood; Cramerton is booming. “Your traffic counts are getting ready to explode on Wilkinson Boulevard, because the new high school opens in August of 2013,” Town Manager Michael Peoples said. “We really do think the high school is going to be a catalyst for commercial and residential development.”

Founded in 1915 as Cramerton Incorporated in 1967 Population 2010 Census: 4,165

Tax Rate $0.4750 per $100 valuation

Town Hall

A rendering of the new $60 million Stuart W. Cramer High School that is being built near Wilkinson Boulevard.

According to Peoples, shared use of the three-story facility with the public would maximize GCS’ investment in the project. Cramerton Middle School and Cramerton Christian Academy share sports fields with the parks and recreation department. It also uses C.B. Huss Recreation Complex. In a town with a population of 4,500, parks and recreation signs up 400 children seasonally for sports. “We don’t have a whole lot of facilities that the town owns, but we are able to work with all these other folks to be able to get the facilities that you need to continue to grow your parks and rec. program,” Peoples said.

The town takes pride in cooperating with GCS and Stuart W. Cramer High School. Cramerton hopes GCS and the high school will share something else; something the town craves and never had. “If the town can and chooses to partner with Gaston County Schools, we hope to share their media center after hours,” Peoples said. “It was constructed in a way that would allow that. There are issues there that would have to be reconciled such as staffing and funding.” Stuart W. Cramer High School is constructed to house 1,200 students and will accommodate up to 1,500 in future growth. Cramerton feels proud of the school’s connection to the community. It honors the town’s history in name, and it features 2 miles of the Carolina Thread Trail. For more about the new high school, visit www.mbaj.com/gcs/. Not far from the school, Cramerton is working with developers to watch another dream come to life. A private investment group purchased part of the Village of South Fork project in December 2011 to ensure the mix use neighborhood would not become another subdivision with a paved road and grass growing on empty lots because of a bad economy. The town planned for a neighborhood that incorporated business development, multifamily units and residential houses.

155 N. Main St. Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday ..................... 704-824-4337 www.cramerton.org

Town Manager Michael Peoples

Mayor: Ronnie Worley Town Commissioners Houston Helms, Mayor Pro Tem Sam Carpenter Will Cauthen Tammy Lawrence Sandra Ware Town Commissioners meet the first Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm and the third Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm at Town Hall

Utilities Two Rivers Utilities (TRU) Billing Questions or to Start/Stop Service .................... 704-866-6716 24/7 Emergency .................... 704-866-6843 Automated Service Line ........ 704-866-6714

Trash Service Trash service is Wednesdays & Fridays by Waste Management ............... 704-853-7852

Other Frequent Numbers Police ..................................... 704-824-7964 Fire ........................................ 704-879-4231 Post Office ............................. 704-824-7411 Parks & Recreation ............... 704-824-4231 www.montcrossareachamber.com

Cramerton

“The town is really lacking multifamily opportunities,” Peoples said. “We have one apartment complex here. We have Hampton Meadows. It has probably been here for over twenty years.” The original plan incorporates 714 units and about 130,000 square feet of commercial space. The neighborhood will border the South Fork River, and part of the Carolina Thread Trail. Miller Architecture has designed the first phase of the project. Cramerton, Miller Architecture and investors plan for 300 multifamily units and a small part of the commercial space. According to Peoples, businesses in this area will be on the

lower level with apartment space on the top. The apartments will also have a clubhouse and four and six car garages as shown on the plans designed by Miller Architecture. “It comes in and doubles the available multifamily offerings in the town,” Peoples said. The boom in Cramerton does not stop with a renovated town hall, new school or neighborhood. Peoples said since Cramerton is a small town and knows its borders on Wilkinson Blvd., the town must look at how it grows with the available space. There is land ripe for industrial and business development in Cramerton and the board of commissioners and Peoples are working to show how the landowners’ available land could assist the town in future economic and community life development. Cramerton owns a special piece of property. The town purchased Goat Island - a 30-acre island in the middle of the South Fork River in 2006 for $3,000. “It runs almost from where the North Main Street South Fork River Bridge is all the way to the C.B. Huss parks and recreation facility,” Peoples said.

A rendering of the proposed Village of South Fork

Cramerton Town Hall 155 N. Main St. Cramerton, NC 28032 www.cramerton.org

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ArGtalolenry &CGeifntster 113 Center Street Cramerton, NC 28032 704-824-8477

Voted Best of Gaston Award 2011 • Salon 202 • Gaston Gazette

s a l o n

Cramerton applied for and received a NC Parks and Recreation Grant. Plans include a 181 foot bridge from the Lakewood Community to the island, picnic shelters, playground equipment, an observation pier, two canoe landings, and an 18-hole disc golf course. Parking will be added. In the second phase, construction is planned for another bridge that will connect the island to the Town Center. “If you look real hard, it looks like Stonehenge,” Peoples said. “They’re building this super cool playground.” The island will also feature part of the trails in association with the Carolina Thread Trails. “Its North-South corridor will eventually connect to Spencer Mountain and to Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden,” Peoples said.

2 0 2

202 Market St. Ste. E Cramerton, NC 28032 704-824-1093 Salon-202.com Hours Monday - Friday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Extended Hours By Appointment

Cramerton’s part of the Carolina Thread Trail connects the town.

Everything the town board, planning and zoning, the police department and parks and recreation has accomplished together has meant looking at the future. Cramerton will not sit back and become a big fish in a small pond. It wants to become something even bigger. Within the next 20 years, Peoples said the town knows where and how it can grow with its land use plan. It hopes to attract more industry and partner with landowners and developers who want to maximize those opportunities with Cramerton. www.tammytaylorinteriors.com

www.montcrossareachamber.com

Ben Blackburn, City Manager

Photo by Rebecca T. Dickinson

Lowell Steps Into The Future Written by Rebecca T. Dickinson

Light Up Lowell is more than an annual festival. The name expresses Lowell’s enthusiasm and hope for a future that recaptures some of the independence it once had as a textile town by attracting a diverse economic community. While Lowell has predominantly become a bedroom community to Charlotte, Lowell City Manager Ben Blackburn said business owners have found success with the Lowell Merchants Association. The unified group seeks to organize and 28

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

devise strategies to raise the eyebrows of larger industries in search of a location. The merchants association, which formed in 2010, has worked with city council to create a zoning ordinance that does not read like complicated Web programming language. “We’ve already adopted the unified development ordinance, which makes it very user friendly both from the staff perspective as well as for the property owners,” Blackburn said.

The ordinance prepares Lowell for industrial development off the Interstate 85 interchange exit 22, on Wilkinson Blvd., and for small business growth within the city limits. Much space is available for large manufacturers. “We have recognized the areas ripe for development,” Blackburn said. “That goes into aspects of zoning. We want to make sure the property is properly zoned.” City Council also works with the zoning department to examine the best use of available land. The Merchants Association takes the information and looks at the keys to attracting a new company. It begins with reader friendly codes. When the textiles shut down, the lights in the buildings on Main Street turned off—it was believed—for the last time.

Now Lowell City Council and its teams pour brains, sweat and heart into how to make the city more attractive to both businesses and residents. Blackburn said the council plans to update water and sewer needs and add extra protection to the police department. “We want to be a vital community within Gaston County and the greater Charlotte area providing a mixture of job opportunities, residential growth, and balance it with commercial and industrial businesses,” Blackburn said. Lowell Merchants Association, the zoning board and city council are also making improvements to the downtown. Lights have turned back on, and since the emergence of the Merchants Association, small retail and service-based businesses have found a home on Main Street. Bright colors of paint and clothes stand behind storefront windows.

Incorporated in 1879 Population 2010 Census: 3,526

Tax Rate $0.4000 per $100 valuation

Town Hall 101 W. First Street Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday ..................... 704-824-3518

www.lowellnc.com City Manager Ben Blackburn

Mayor: Judy Horne City Council Martha Burris, Mayor Pro-Tem Chad Hawkins Terry Benson Rickie Bush Sam Mitchem City Council meets at 7:00 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at City Hall

Utilities Pay water and sewer bills at City Hall, 101 W. First Street, Lowell

Trash Service Trash containers are scheduled for collection on Monday thru Wednesday according to street location. 704-824-3518 or 704-824-1072

Other Frequent Numbers Police ..................................... 704-824-8540 Fire ........................................ 704-824-3357 Post Office .............................. 704-824-1101 Library .................................... 704-824-1266 Parks & Recreation ................ 704-824-0099

www.montcrossareachamber.com

Lowell

“Some businesses have been here for a number of years,” Blackburn said. “Then we’ve gotten new businesses in the past couple of months.” Small additions in the downtown give Lowell a safety and beauty facelift. The city council, zoning and merchants association have increased offstreet parking in the downtown. Sidewalk improvements encourage more foot traffic. Handrails, street lighting and trees offer the warm hometown feeling while also promoting small business. “These improvements have taken place in the past two years,” Blackburn said. Lowell offers a variety of gracious homes and quiet neighborhoods City council plans to provide sidewalk access from the downtown to to fit every taste and preference. the residential neighborhoods and to George Poston Park on North Main Street. The sidewalk project will connect residents to its commercial center and encourage health in the community. In the last ten years, residential growth has increased. Construction of close to 500 lots in three major subdivisions addresses the need for FURNITURE ~ ACCESSORIES housing. CUSTOM FRAMING CUSTOM UPHOLSTERY “With our access to I-85, we see commercial QUICK SHIP DRAPERIES growth along Wilkinson Blvd., and on exits 22

Fine Things Consigned, Inc.

Lowell holds it’s annual Freedom Festival in early summer which features crafts, children’s rides, games, live music and food vendors.

and 23,” said Blackburn adding the growth encourages more people to move to Lowell.

Whether it’s Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner we serve fresh, home-cooked goodness Daily Specials Available Weekdays & Sundays APPETIZERS • SANDWICHES • BBQ • CHICKEN • FISH SALADS & COLD PLATES • KIDS MENU • DESSERTS Carryout • Catering • Senior Menu Private Banquet Room Available • Large Group Menu

Let us host your meetings or seminars We can provide Wi-Fi, Sound System, Microphone and much more

www.125nmain.com

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106 E. First St. • Lowell 704-824-3312 10am-5pm Tues.-Fri. 10am-3pm Sat. Closed Sun. & Mon.

Local Parks Crescent Park 611 E. Catawba Street Belmont Davis Park 204 Park Drive Belmont Gaston County Park at Belmont Central Elementary School 310 Eagle Road Belmont Gaston County Parks & Recreation ....704-922-2160 www.co.gaston.nc.us/parksandrec/index.HTM •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Belmont Parks & Recreation .............. 704-825-8191 www.belmontparksandrec.com •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Cramerton Parks & Recreation .......... 704-824-4231 www.cramerton.org/departments/parks-recreation •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Lowell Parks & Recreation ................. 704-824-0099 www.lowellnc.com/parksandrecreation.htm •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Mount Holly Parks & Recreation ........ 704-951-3005 www.mtholly.us/departments/parks-recreation •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Stanley Parks & Recreation ................ 704-263-4000 www.townofstanley.org •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Gaston County Park at Catawba Heights Elementary School 101 Ivey Street Belmont Linford Park Cason Street Belmont Gaston County Park at North Belmont 3110 Hickory Grove Road Gastonia Reid Park 305 Sacco Street Belmont Rodden Ballfield 135 Vine Street Belmont

TridentBuilding, Inc. RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL R E N O VAT I O N S R E A L E S TAT E

Zach Horne - 704-913-6441 PO Box 217, Lowell, NC 28098 www.tridentbuildinginc.com 704-824-1256 Office 704-824-2065 Fax

Stowe Park 24 S. Main Street Belmont Central Park High Street Cramerton Lakewood Park Lakewood Subdivision Cramerton

Gaston County Park at Cramerton Middle School 601 Cramer Mountain Road Cramerton Riverside Park & Greenway Riverside Drive Cramerton

River Street Park 330 N. River Street Mount Holly Tuckaseege Park 165 Broome Street Mount Holly Woodlawn Park 521 Woodlawn Avenue Mount Holly

George Poston Park 1101 Lowell-Spencer Mtn. Rd. Lowell Harold Rankin Park 715 N. Main Sreet Lowell

Veterans Park 127 E. Glendale Avenue Mount Holy Catawba Heights Neighborhood Park 613 Summerrow Road Mount Holy

Joe Hudson Park South Main St. - Lowell Legacy Park Elm Street McAdenville

Mountain Island Park at Mount Holly 613 Summerrow Road Mount Holy

McDonald Field 149 Park Drive McAdenville

Community Park East Parkwood Street Stanley

Pharr Park Main Street McAdenville

Community Park Plum Street Stanley

Central Park 127 E. Glendale Avenue Mount Holly

Harper Park Blacksnake Road Stanley

Gaston County Park at East Gaston High School 1744 Lane Road Mount Holly

R.M. Thompson Park College Street Stanley

Gaston County Park at Pinewood Elementary 1925 N. Main Street Mount Holly

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3rd Generation of Clock Makers 118 North Main Street • Lowell, NC 28098

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CHAUFFEURED TRANSPORTATION L i m o u s i n e s • M i n i - b u s e s • S u v ’s S t re t c h S u v ’s • S e d a n s • H u m m e rs Belmont / Charlotte, NC 1-877-779-7909 w w w. c l t e x p re s s. c o m

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Local Schools in Eastern Gaston County Gaston County Schools Administration Offices 943 Osceola Street Gastonia, NC 704-866-6100 www.gaston.k12.nc.us

Public School Hours Elementary Schools Opening time between 7:45 a.m. and 8:20 a.m. Closing time between 2:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Elementary Schools Belmont Central (2-5) 310 Eagle Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-8479 Catawba Heights (K-5) 101 Ivey Street Belmont, NC 28012 704-827-3221 Kiser (3-5) 311 East College Street Stanley, NC 28164 704-263-4121

Middle and High Schools

Lowell (K-5) 1500 Power Drive Lowell, NC 28098 704-824-2264

Opening time between 7:55 a.m. and 8:20 a.m. Closing time between 2:40 p.m. and 3:10 p.m.

McAdenville (K-5) 275 E Weslyan Drive McAdenville, NC 28101 704-824-2236

Highland School of Technology

New Hope (K-5) 137 Stowe Road Gastonia, NC 28056 704-824-1617

Opening time is 8:40 a.m. Closing time is 3:30 p.m.

www.gaston.edu

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Total Number of Schools in County

Elementary Schools in County

North Belmont (K-5) 210 School Street Belmont, NC 28012 704-827-4043 Page Primary School (K-1) 215 Ewing Drive Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-2614 Pinewood (K-5) 1925 N Main Street Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-2236 Ida Rankin (K-5) 301 W Central Avenue Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-7266 Springfield (K-2) 900 South Main Street Stanley, NC 28164 704-263-4091

Middle Schools in County

High Schools in County

Other Schools in County

31,619

Total Enrollment of Students in County for 2011-12

Middle Schools

HighSchools

Belmont Middle School (6-8) 110 N Central Avenue Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-9619

East Gaston High School 1744 S Lane Road Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-7251

Cramerton Middle School (6-8) 601 Cramer Mountain Road Cramerton, NC 28032 704-824-2907

South Point High School 906 South Point Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-3351

Holbrook Middle School (6-8) 418 S Church Street Lowell, NC 28098 704-824-2381

Colleges

Mt. Holly Middle School (6-8) 124 S Hawthorne Street Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-4811 Stanley Middle School (6-8) 317 Hovis Road Stanley, NC 28164 704-263-2941

Belmont Abbey College 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-6700 1-888-222-0110 www.belmontabbeycollege.edu Gaston College Kimbrell Campus 7220 W Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-3737 www.gaston.edu

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704-825-9635 www.OakRidgeDentalArts.com

Building Young Minds, Expanding Horizons Infants thru Private Kindergarten & After School

201 S. Central Avenue • Belmont, NC 28012 www.NewBridgeChildrensAcademy.com

704.829.7400

www.montcrossareachamber.com

Town council, Mayor Farrell Buchanan and Town Manager Gene McCombs applied for the grant in 2010. According to McCombs, the grant is invested in restoring five 19th century buildings on Main Street. “The construction of the Main Street structures has been going on for about six months,” McCombs said. The grant requires the buildings to be used for low to moderate income families. It entails Pharr Yarns to spend no more than $40,000 per unit. The company that has helped shape McAdenville spends more than its obligation to the grant.

A piece of wood is cut by a construction worker for the restoration of one of the five buildings.

Gene McCombs, Town Manager Photo by Rebecca T. Dickinson

McAdenville Combines The Future and Past Written by Rebecca T. Dickinson

The tradition of the mill town will incorporate modern essentials to create a McAdenville with a kick. A community block grant, known as the Town of McAdenville Main Street District Community Development Block Grant Project, awards McAdenville $1 million. 34

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

“The grant was a group consensus with the full cooperation of Pharr Yarns,” McCombs said. “Pharr Yarns is putting in more money than the grant allows for revamping these units so McAdenville could retain the quality of the building structures and their interior.”

By the end of the project, the five buildings will have ten multi-family units. McCombs said restoration is set for completion within 2012. “Since the grant built the houses, there’s going to be some clauses about who can live there, what income bracket they have to be in to live there, and what they can afford,” Buchanan said. The restoration of the buildings is not the first time McAdenville has found a way to encourage a new quality of life within the small town’s limited space. In the last decade, the town approved a new subdivision called McAdenville Village. Original construction of the houses combined history, tradition and modern building codes.

“It’s a natural occurance to have a group of people who want to improve the lives and opportunities of the people who live here,” McCombs said. “That same goal is available with the industry here. I think those two factions together with the people, who live here, create an energy, and I think it helps maintain a small town atmosphere.” In 1957, McAdenville began a new tradition. People drive through Christmas Town, USA every December. Cars crowd the streets turning the mill town into a Charlotte 5 p.m. parking lot. For the first time in its history, McAdenville not only showed decorations and light; it put on a show in 2011. Pharr Yarns, CaroMont Health, Husqvarna, a volunteer committee and city council planned the Inaugural Christmas Town Festival. New residents and people who A majority of the old mill houses that stood for decades have lived in Christmas Town, USA have been replaced with upscale single-family homes. for their entire lives made up the committee. It worked with leadership in the city to host an outdoor festival on three of the Saturday nights before Christmas, according to Gent Simmons committee leader and council member.

Incorporated in 1881 Population 2010 Census: 651

Tax Rate $0.3000 per $100 valuation

Town Hall 125 Main Street Office hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday ....................... 704-824-3190 Email: mcadenville@aol.com www.mcadenville-christmastown.com

Town Administrator Gene McCombs

Mayor: Farrell Buchanan City Council Blair Rector, Mayor Pro Tem Jesse Bachman Darrell Ethridge Photo provided by Steve Rankin, McAdenville, NC

One of the many beautiful houses decorated for the thousands of visitors to view during Christmas.

“We wanted to make sure we honored the legacy of Christmas Town,” Simmons said. “We did it well. We wanted to make sure we didn’t dishonor all those who made Christmas Town what it is today.” McAdenville began with the idea to put lights on a few trees. The idea expanded to include red, green and white lights to warm up the holiday spirit, and it placed a glowing spot on the map for McAdenville. For eight months, the volunteer committee planned for the new

Gent Simmons Jim Robbinette City Council meets the second Tuesday of each month at 5 p.m. at Town Hall

Utilities Pay water and sewer bills at Town Hall, 125. Main Street during normal business hours ...................... 704-824-3190

Trash Service Harrison Sanitation, Inc. ........ 704-263-2340

TruliantFCU.org

Other Frequent Numbers Fire ........................................ 704-824-3922 Post Office ............................. 704-824-1509 McAdenville Community Center/ William J Pharr Family YMCA ... 704-824-1131

www.montcrossareachamber.com

McAdenville

festival. It had to recruit sponsors and volunteers. The committee arranged different themes and programs for each Saturday festival. “We looked to add something new and different and to get some folks out of their cars and have something different to do,” Simmons said. On December 3, 2011, choirs from Gaston County Schools performed holiday songs. Each school choir sang for 45 minutes to one hour. Church choirs put on a show December 10, 2011. The grand closing on December 17, 2011 featured a live nativity scene from 6 to 9 p.m. Narroway Productions, based in South Carolina, performed a musical play. If music was not enough, the committee, city and sponsors gave 1,000 participants free hot chocolate and kettle corn in the brand new Legacy Park. City Council and the Parks and Recreation Department have worked together to give McAdenville something it never had; a park. “We were the only town that had no park that I know of,” Buchanan said. “Every town that surrounded us had some kind of park, and now we do.” Part of the grant given to McAdenville covers the cost for the first phase of Legacy Park. It features a concrete pad that serves as a stage for performances. According to Buchanan, the next phase will provide playground equipment. Construction of the playground is scheduled for the spring. According to McCombs, McAdenville’s future rests partially in the hands of Pharr Yarns. It is a company embedded in the town’s history,

www.caromonthealth.org

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Legacy Park is located in downtown McAdenville just off Main Street on Elm Street.

residents’ memory, and in the construction of new projects. Despite the demise of the textile industry in most towns and cities, Pharr Yarns continues to make specialty yarns for the military. McAdenville, Christmas Town and the local economy began with Pharr Yarns—and like a strong marriage—it will stay with the company.

Holy Angels Holy Angels is a private, nonprofit corporation that was founded in 1956 by the Sisters of Mercy. They provide innovative programs and services for its residents - children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities some of whom have physical disabilities and are medically fragile and require round the clock care. Holy Angels operates vocational programs in downtown Belmont called Cherubs CafĂŠ and Candy Bouquet. 6600 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012-2796 704-825-4161 www.holyangelsnc.org

Sisters of Mercy Sisters of Mercy are women who commit their lives to God, deepening their relationship with God and serving Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people, especially those who are sick, poor and uneducated. They minister in pastoral care, healthcare, canon law, social work, education, art, music, and bereavement. In addition, their ministries provide transitional housing & services for those with AIDS, homeless women and children and those with significant mental retardation who are also physically fragile. 101 Mercy Dr. Belmont, NC 28012 704-829-5260 www.sistersofmercy.org

www.clearbrookadvisory.com

www.forestpointe.org

www.montcrossareachamber.com

Healthcare Peace of mind depends on timely access to high-quality healthcare. Area families take comfort in knowing they have excellent medical services close by. The healthcare needs of all ages are met with the availability of quality healthcare providers and facilities. A number of diverse medical practices ensure the health of the area’s residents through a wide spectrum of services and programs. Led by two major healthcare networks as well as an abundance of private physicians’ practices offering everything from allergists to acupuncturists; pediatricians to podiatrists; and sports medicine centers you will find medical assistance right here in Gaston County. With two major healthcare networks in the area – CaroMont Health and Carolinas HealthCare System, there are also hundreds of medical and dental specialists who have offices conveniently located throughout the county. CaroMont Health offers area residents Gaston Memorial Hospital which has 435-beds and Gaston Memorial’s The Birthplace, which is one of the largest and most advanced facilities of it’s kind in the nation. This 52-suite family birthing center creates an environment that is non-medical and the expecting mother stays in the same room throughout labor, delivery, recovery and postpartum. Carolinas HealthCare System is the largest health care system in the Carolinas. Carolinas Rehabilitation-Mount Holly is an exceptional medical faciility located just west of the Catawba River in Mount Holly. This 40 bed rehabilitation hospital offers inpatient and outpatient services for people who have had accidents, head injuries, cancer, amputation and other debilitating conditions. Several levels of care services are available in Gaston County as well: Home health, assisted living, intermediate and long-term care, and skilled nursing care, as well as Hospice, Inc. Whatever your needs, there is someone here to care for you! Medical center staff, physicians, dentists, chiropractors, mental health professionals, optometrists and physical therapists are here to serve your needs. Big-city services with hometown personalization sums up the healthcare variety for Gaston County.

FAMILY ~ COSMETIC ~ GENERAL DENTISTRY

When you visit our office, your smile is our first priority. Our

entire team takes pride in offering the highest level of dental care and the best in dental technology and treatment options. • Comprehensive Dental Exams

• Preventative Cleanings

• Periodontal Treatments

• Custom Whitening

• Composite (White) Fillings & Silver

• Custom Crowns

• Attractive Dentures

• Custom Bridges

If you are searching for a family-friendly dentist with skillful hands and a warm heart, look no further than Dr. Gary McCord and his team of dental experts.

SOUTH POINT FAMILY DENTISTRY Gary McCord, D.D.S.

1215 Spruce Street • Belmont, NC 28012

704-825-5111 www.SouthPointSmiles.com www.hannonorthodontics.com

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Caring For Our Neighbors For Over 15 Years! CaroMont Family Medicine - Belmont is large enough to offer services such as on-site x-ray and lab tests, but small enough to know each member of your family by name. Our physicians are board certified and will provide care for your entire family from physicals to sudden illness.

Pictured left to right: Ann Marie Watts, Nurse Practitioner; Dr. M. Jay Petruska; and Dr. Cristian Pantea

209 Park Street • Suite 100 • Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4750 • www.caromontfamilymedicine.org/belmont

Gaston County Health Department 991 W. Hudson Blvd. Gastonia, NC 28052 704-853-5000 www.gastonpublichealth.org Hours: Monday, 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Tuesday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Other Health Department Phone Numbers Child Health Clinic .......................................... 704-853-5010 Communicable Disease ................................. 704-853-5002 Dental Health ................................................. 704-853-5191 Environmental Health Lab ............................. 704-853-5212 Environmental Health Program ...................... 704-853-5200 Family Planning ............................................. 704-853-5009 Gaston Diabetes Center ............................... 704-853-5140 Health Education ............................................ 704-853-5118 Laboratory ...................................................... 704-853-5070 Maternity Clinic .............................................. 704-853-5008 Maternity Care Coordinators .......................... 704-853-5107 Tuberculosis (TB) ........................................... 704-853-5007 WIC Program ................................................. 704-853-5100 East Gaston Health Center ............................ 704-827-1351

Department of Social Services

Our

care is built around

something very important.

You. MEDICATION REMINDERS • PERSONAL HYGIENE • DOCTOR APPOINTMENTS DRESSING • VITAL SIGNS & MONITORING • LIGHT HOUSEKEEPING • L AUNDRY CHANGE LINENS • GROCERY SHOPPING • PRESCRIPTION PICK-UP • ERRANDS SITTER/COMPANIONS • DINE OUT FOR MEAL • ATTEND CHURCH SERVICES

The Gaston County Department of Social Services administers federal, state and county programs focused on improving the well-being of our citizens. Through the delivery of these programs, the Department exists to protect, care and empower children and adults who are temporarily or permanently unable to care for themselves. 330 North Marietta Street Gastonia, NC 28053 -1578 704-862-7500 Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm, Monday - Friday Children and Family Services .................... 704-862-7530 (8:00-5:00) to report child abuse, neglect or exploitation and for information regarding services for children and families. HOTLINE ....................................................... 704-862-7555 For after hours reports on child abuse, neglect, exploitation or emergency situations

Bringing Love and Care to Your Home.

HOTLINE ....................................................... 704-852-6000 For the Domestic Violence Shelter (24 hours)

Our team of trained employees understands the care

Information regarding available services and public assistance programs (8am-5pm) ......... 704-862-7500 Adult Medicaid & Child Day Care Services ..... 704-862-7515 Employment Center (JTPA and Work First) .... 704-862-7525 Child Support Enforcement ........................... 704-862-7520 Children and Family Services ......................... 704-862-7530 Food Stamps .................................................. 704-862-7510

you or a loved one wish to have while remaining independent in your own home. We know that no two people are the same so we get to know you and what your needs may be. The better we know you the better care we can provide. And that’s what matters to us.

704-931-4997 www.stressfreehomecare.com

www.montcrossareachamber.com

Heath Jenkins, Interim Town Manager Photo by Rebecca T. Dickinson

Harper Park Revitalizes Community Ties to

Stanley Written by Rebecca T. Dickinson

Nothing will stop it. The enthusiasm for Stanley’s first park encourages town participation unlike any event in its past. “It would be our first and only park facility that would provide baseball facilities, a walking track and a number of other thing including a children’s playground,” said Heath Jenkins, Interim Town Manager of Stanley. The Parks and Recreation Department received $500,000 from a state grant. Gaston County Board of Commissioners voted and approved $5,000 for the park. Jenkins said Parks and Recreation has raised $1 million from private donations and grant money. Recreation Director Tug Deason has worked close to 10

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

years to raise money. Town citizens Ron and Katherine Harper donated money. Parks and Recreation, the Stanley Revitalization Committee and Town Council approved the name Harper Park. The goal is to open the park October 2012. One-third of it is completed. Park workers have finished curbs, guttering, paving the parking lots, and sowing the two baseball fields. Harper Park, located off Blacksnake Road, will also feature a basketball court, playground, paved walking path, bike and hiking trails, a concession stand and restrooms, a horseshoe pitch, and picnic area. “A lot of communities have had parks even though they’re building additional parks, walkways or greenways,” Jenkins said.“… When someone is thinking about moving into a community, they want a park. They want recreational facilities. They want their children to participate in recreation programs.” According to Jenkins, 2,600 children participate in the recreation programs. To accomRon Harper, who passed away on modate the baseball and other April 14, 2012, was a passionate sports programs, Stanley has used supporter of the new park in Stanley that is named in his honor. the old gymnasium—once part of

the old Stanley High School. There was an effort to take it down 12 years ago. Stanley worked with Gaston County Schools to save the gym because of the children who participated in the basketball program. The recreation department also shares sports fields with Kaiser Elementary School. Children, with the assistance of Deason and the revitalization committee, took the initiative to plan and host fundraising efforts. “I’ve never seen the community on fire as much as they are for this park,” Jenkins said. “They want a park of their own.” “The Biggest Loser” must have what it takes to whip a park into shape Stanley style. Parents and children coordinated a Biggest Loser event. Participants paid an entry fee and competed with a team of three to lose more weight than others. The event did more for the community than raise money for the park. According to Jenkins, Biggest Loser educated everyone in town about childhood and adult obesity. On May 28, 2012, the same partnership of parks and recreation, children and parents will host a donkey baseball game at Kiser field to raise more money. Another fundraiser includes a womanless beauty pageant. “This is a project that has really pulled the community together in such a positive way,” Jenkins said. For more information about Harper Park, visit www.harperpark.org. A community park attracts the minds of business and industry. Business owners look for a city that provides a quality of life for its employees. Prior to the dip in the economy, Stanley grew at a fast pace with subdivisions and building. Through the years, Stanley has — and continues to — worked with the Gaston County Economic Development Committee to locate facilities best suited for larger businesses. Stanley has old and new manufacturing facilities available. It looks for businesses that add to the community. Photo provided by Bill Ward - www.bwasap.com “We do have an industrial The annual Country Fest in October draws thousands of people to downtown Stanley and is one event your won’t want to miss. park,” Jenkins said. “Because of the vision of past business leaders and council, they put an industrial park on Highway 27.” Stanley is not waiting for industry to come to it or wander off to Charlotte. It has actively sought companies in the 2000’s and 2010’s. Buckeye Technologies invested the largest amount in Gaston County when it arrived to the industrial park between Stanley and Mount Holly in 2000. Other industries and investors have followed, many of which are active in the community. “Our vision is to continue to try to recruit new businesses to our town and help us grow,” Jenkins said. “The attraction of new industry and business is a very competitive process.” GCEDC assists towns like Stanley in making sure there is a quality of life, and water and sewer systems are updated. Stanley plans to update its current wastewater system. “We have a very old water and sewer system,” Jenkins said. “A lot of our water and sewer pipes are as much as fifty years or older.” He added town council has approved projects to replace lines. Jenkins describes the town as a business friendly community. By making improvements, the city hopes to compete and work with surrounding towns to attract business.

Incorporated in 1879 Population 2010 Census: 3,556

Tax Rate $0.5400 per $100 valuation

Town Offices 114 S. Main Street Office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday ....................... 704-263-4779 www.townofstanley.org

Interim Town Manager Heath Jenkins

Town Clerk Beth Usery

Mayor: Frank Guida Town Council Andrew Quinley, Mayor Pro Tem Bud Pate Jan Williams Danny Sparrow Town Council meets the first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at Town Hall

Utilities Pay water and sewer bills at Town Hall, 114 S. Main Street during normal business hours ...................... 704-263-4779

Trash Service Trash pickup by Advanced Disposal. .............. 704-596-9428

Other Frequent Numbers Police ..................................... 704-263-4778 Fire ........................................ 704-263-4777 Post Office ............................. 704-263-4166

www.montcrossareachamber.com

Important Phone Numbers & Links Utilities

FIRE • POLICE • AMBULANCE .... 911

Electric Duke Power .......................................... 800-777-9898 www.duke-energy.com Natural Gas PSNC Energy ......................................... 877-776-2427 www.psncenergy.com/en/ Telephone AT&T .................................................... 800-288-2020 www.att.com Windstream ........................... 1-866-971-WIND (9463) www.windstream.com Water Belmont Water Department ................... 704-825-0507 Cramerton Two Rivers Utilities ............... 704-866-6716 Gastonia Water Department .................. 704-866-6843 Mount Holly Water Department ............. 704-827-3931 Cable Time Warner Cable ................................ 877-566-4892 www.twcarolina.com Garbage Belmont Waste Pro ................................ 704-792-0800 Cramerton Waste Management ............. 704-853-7852 Lowell .................................................. 704-824-3518 McAdenville Harrison Sanitation, Inc. ..... 704-263-2340 Mount Holly Solid Waste ...................... 704-827-9726 Stanley - Advanced Disposal .................. 704-596-9428 Gaston County ..................................... 704-922-0267 www.co.gaston.nc.us/SolidWaste

Hospital Gaston Memorial Hospital ................... 704-834-2000 North Carolina Poison Control Voice/TDD/TTY ................................ 1-800-222-1222 American Red Cross ............................ 704-864-2623 Animal Control ................................... 704-922-8677 or 704-922-8678 Battered Women’s Shelter ................... 704-852-6000 Better Business Bureau ....................... 704-927-8611 or 1-877-317-7236 Births, Deaths and Marriages .............. 704-862-7680 Cancer Services of Gaston County .......... 704-864-1271 Cooperative Extension Service ................ 704-922-0301 Elections & Voter Registration ............ 704-852-6005 Gaston County Health Dept. ............... 704-853-5000 Gaston County Hospice ...................... 704-861-8405 Gaston County Property Tax ................. 704-866-3067 Gaston County Records & Real Estate .. 704-862-7684 Human Services .................................. 704-862-7530 Salvation Army .................................... 704-867-6145 Social Services .................................... 704-862-7500 United Way of Gaston County ............. 704-864-4554 Veterans Service Office ........................ 704-866-3606 42

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Gaston County Police Dept. ............... 704-866-3320 Gaston County Sheriff’s Dept. ............ 704-869-6800 Crime Stoppers .................................. 704-861-8000 Emergency Management .................... 704-866-3350 Gaston Emergency Medical Services (GEMS) .............................................. 704-866-3212 Fire Marshall ...................................... 704-866-3355 Highway Patrol .................................. 919-733-7952 North Carolina Road Conditions ......................... 511 Gaston County Parks and Recreation .......................................................... 704-922-2160 www.co.gaston.nc.us/parksandrec/index.HTM Belmont Parks and Recreation .......................................................... 704-825-8191 www.belmontparksandrec.com

Belmont www.cityofbelmont.org Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-825-3792 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-825-0502 City Hall .......................................... 704-825-5586

Cramerton www.cramerton.org Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-8943 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-3915 Town Hall ........................................ 704-824-4337

Lowell www.lowellnc.com Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-8540 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-3357 Town Hall ........................................ 704-824-3190

McAdenville

Cramerton Parks and Recreation .......................................................... 704-824-4231 www.cramerton.org/departments/parks-recreation

www.mcadenville-christmastown.com Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-3922 Town Hall ....................................... 704-824-3190

Lowell Parks and Recreation .......................................................... 704-824-0099 www.lowellnc.com/parksandrecreation.htm

Mount Holly

Mount Holly Parks and Recreation .......................................................... 704-951-3005 www.mtholly.us/departments/parks-recreation Stanley Parks and Recreation .......................................................... 704-263-4000 www.townofstanley.org Libraries Gaston County Regional Libraries www.glrl.lib.nc.us Main Branch - Gastonia ...................... 704-868-2164 Belmont .............................................. 704-825-5426 Lowell ................................................. 704-824-1266 Mount Holly ........................................ 704-827-3581 Stanley ................................................ 704-263-4166 Post Offices Belmont ............................................... 704-825-6101 Cramerton ........................................... 704-824-7411 Lowell ................................................. 704-824-1101 McAdenville ......................................... 704-824-0915 Mount Holly ......................................... 704-827-6415 Stanley ................................................ 704-263-2058

www.mtholly.us Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-827-4343 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-822-2927 City Hall .......................................... 704-827-3931

Stanley www.townofstanley.org Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-263-4778 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-263-4777 Town Hall ....................................... 704-263-4779 Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce ....................................................... 704-825-5307 www.montcrossareachamber.com Gaston County Department of Tourism ....................................................... 704-825-4044 www.visitgaston.org Gaston County Economic Development Commission ................................. 704-825-4046 www.gaston.org

Board of Elections 410 W. Franklin Blvd., Suite 50 Gastonia, NC 704-852-6005 www.co.gaston.nc.us/elections Hours of Operation: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM - Monday-Friday To become a registered voter in Gaston County a person must be a citizen of the United States, eighteen (18) years old, and a resident of the precinct for thirty (30) days before the next election. A person may register to vote at the Elections Office, any branch of the Public Library system, the Registerof-Deeds Office, or the Department of Motor Vehicles when attending to driver's license business.

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