Montcross Chamber Welcome Magazine 2014-2015 by Biz Well

Serving Our Community by Providing Excellent Dental Care

Travis L. Nixon, DDS, PA & Shanda T. Fangman, DDS Christmastown Dentistry is proud of our new state-of-the-art facility located in the heart of McAdenville. We've designed a whole new office with your comfort and care in mind. From spacious parking to expanded and enhanced services, every decision revolved around providing the best dental care for you and your family. We offer the latest technologies and procedures available in dentistry today including the ability to provide CEREC® same day cosmetic crowns and veneers. We’re also the area experts on sleep apnea dental appliance treatment. We look forward to seeing you, your family, and your friends in our new office soon!

BEFORE

AFTER

309 Wesleyan Drive McAdenville, NC 28101

BEFORE

www.ChristmastownDentistry.com

AFTER

704-824-4311 Fax: 704-824-8128

RESTORATIONS DENTAL SEALANTS DENTURES CROWNS & BRIDGES VENEERS DENTAL IMPLANTS TEETH WHITENING TOOTH EXTRACTIONS SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT NITROUS OXIDE (LAUGHING GAS) SEDATION LASER GUM RECONTOURING ROOT CANALS

phil@philchampionsf.com

2015 Chevrolet Malibu

2015 Buick Regal 2015 GMC Yukon

2015 Chevrolet Silverado

2015 Cadillac Escalade

www.mckenneychevrolet.com 831 South Main Street • Lowell, NC 28098 • Sales/Service: 704-823-1040 www.montcrossareachamber.com

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside 4 Location 5 Climate 5 Municipality Land Areas and Population

6 Area Attractions 9 Gaston County Visitor Center

10 Eastern Gaston County Prepares for Economic Growth

1 1 Top Area Employers 1 2 Small Businesses Play Big Role In Economic Development

1 4 City of Belmont 16 Growth & Progress Belmont

18 City of Mount Holly 20 Growth & Progress -

ON THE COVER 3 7 Post Offices 3 7 Drivers License

Mount Holly

2 2 The Town of Cramerton 2 3 Growth & Progress Cramerton

26 Town of Lowell 2 8 Growth & Progress Lowell

30 Town of McAdenville 3 1 Growth & Progress McAdenville

3 3 Local Parks 3 4 Town of Stanley 3 5 Growth & Progress Stanley

3 7 Libraries

& Registration

37 37 38 40 41 41 42

Recycling Centers Automobile Info Healthcare Local Schools Fire Departments Police Stations Montcross Chamber Membership Directory

4 7 Montcross Chamber Board of Directors and Staff

4 8 Important Phone Numbers & Links

4 9 Area Map

Pictured in front of the Stuart W. Cramer High School are (top row, left to right); Yates Collier, Grayson Phillips, Karan Mirchandani, Caroline Murphy, Grace Dodoo (bottom row, left to right); Jonathan Jordan, Malory Thomason, and Makayla Philyaw Opening in the fall of 2013 with grades 9 and 10, Stuart W. Cramer High School is Gaston Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest public school. At 268,000 square feet, this facility is a state-of-the-art wonderland, from the technical education wing with a 16 station welding area to the top-notch culinary kitchen classroom with stainless steel appliances. By the fall of 2015, the school will expand to grades 9 to 12.

The Catawba River provides the perfect place for numerous recreational activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The use of artwork, copy or information without the written consent of The Biz Well Corporation is prohibited. All of the information in this publication is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed. Every effort has been made to insure accuracy of this publication. The Biz Well Corporation and the Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce are not liable for any errors, omissions or products represented in this publication. For advertising information, questions or comments about the magazine, call 704-763-4087 or visit www.gobizwell.com. Special thanks to ImageMark for printing this publication.

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Local Expertise. REAL ESTATE SALES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Proven Results. RENTALS • RESIDENTIAL OFFICE • COMMERCIAL

If you’re seeking quality, local real estate services, you have come to the right place! Here at Cottage Keepers, a licensed real estate sales and property management company, we offer personalized sales, leasing, and management services to meet our clients goals. Whether you are looking for your first place to rent, your dream home, or the perfect place to operate your small business – we can help! Contact us today to make Cottage Keepers your choice in professional real estate services. We look forward to working with you soon.

CUSTOM, FULL BRICK HOMES CLOSE PROXIMITY TO DOWNTOWN BELMONT European Architecture, Tree-Lined Streets, Cobblestone Paved Drives Pre-sell and work with the builder to customize your dream home

Our Professional Team: Timothy Roberts | Greg Cline | Katie Goforth | Tally Roberts 34 EAST WOODROW AVE • BELMONT, NC 28012 • 704-829-0367 • WWW.COTTAGEKEEPERSONLINE.COM

www.BelmontAbbeyCollege.edu www.montcrossareachamber.com

Thousands of commuters travel through Gaston County on Interstate 85 every day

GETTING HERE BY CAR Three of North Carolinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five interstate roadways run through, or are minutes away from Gaston County: I-85, I-485, & I-77 Access to area highways include: US 74, US 321, NC 7, NC 27, and NC 273 among numerous others.

BY AIR Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) 5501 Josh Birmingham Parkway Charlotte, NC 28208 704-359-4910 www.charlotteairport.com Gaston County

BY RAIL Amtrak 350 Hancock Street Gastonia, NC 28054 800-872-7245 www.greyhound.com

BY BUS Greyhound 121 N. Oakland Ave Gastonia, NC 28053 704-866-6855 www.greyhound.com

Gaston County is connected to major highways that lead everywhere throughout North Carolina and the Southeast. They form a network that makes living in the Gaston County area advantageous to the business traveler, commuters and visitors.

Gastonia Transit

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.

Provides regular, fixed route bus service around Gastonia. Monday-Saturday. 704-866-6855 www.gastonmpo.org/gastoniaexpress.htm

Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Abbey Plaza Shopping Center - Route 85x 601 Park Street Belmont, NC 704-336-7433 (RIDE) www.ridetransit.org 4

esidents of Gaston County have a little secret - they live in one of the best areas of the state. Located in the South - Central Piedmont section of North Carolina, Gaston County is comfortably removed from the urban sprawl of Charlotte yet close enough to take advantage of urban amenities and resources. The Catawba River and Mecklenburg County set the border for the east side of the County, to the west is Cleveland County, on the north is Lincoln County and the south is bordered by York County, South Carolina.

MONTCROSS MONTCROSSAREA AREACHAMBER CHAMBEROF OFCOMMERCE COMMERCE

At the nearby Catawba River, you can boat, fish, water ski and jet ski. The headwaters of the Catawba River extend from the slopes of Grandfather Mountain, near Blowing Rock, to the mountains near Ridgecrest, North Carolina. The basin includes approximately 5,000 miles of waterways and it includes portions of 24 counties in two states (North Carolina and South Carolina).

CLIMATE 214

average sunny days per year

Gaston County enjoys four distinctive seasons. Moderate summer temperatures and humidity encourage numerous outdoor activities. Spring and fall are both spectacular with blooming flowers to majestic

golden leaves of the trees. The average annual precipitation is 43 inches, and the average relative humidity is 54%. The Catawba River with its South Fork provides the major natural drainage for the area.

average inches of snowfall per year

average inches of rain per year

The comfortable year- round climate is ideal for strolling the first-rate community neighborhoods, visiting the local stores and enjoying the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Gaston County offers an exceptional standard of living while retaining the hard-working, civic-minded mentality with which the area was built.

11%

90°

of days with temps higher than 90°

average temp in July

61.5°

40’s

annual average temp

average temp throughout winter

visitgaston.org

LAND AREAS ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Belmont

8.52 square miles

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

Cramerton

3.83 square miles

Lowell

2.69 square miles

McAdenville

1.49 square miles

Mount Holly

8.50 square miles

Stanley

2.27 square miles

Total County

364 square miles

POPULATION ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Belmont

10,076

Cramerton

4,165

Lowell

3,526

McAdenville

698

Mount Holly

13,656

Stanley

3,556

Total County

206,086

www.DSBG.org

*Town Populations based on 2010 US Census

www.montcrossareachamber.com

AREA

ATTRACTIONS There is a tremendous assortment of things to see and places to go. Throughout the county there are museums dedicated to preserving the past and present. In addition, modern and ancient marvels, both man-made and natural, will inspire and intrigue you. Here are some of the most popular and interesting sights that await you in Gaston County. DANIEL STOWE BOTANICAL GARDEN Located on 400 acres this botanical garden is located just south of Belmont. Features include lush gardens with sparkling fountains, a nature trail, gift shop, and much more. The orchid conservatory is devoted to displaying tropical plants. A broad variety of educational programs, classes and special events are also offered year-round. This is truly a must see for all ages. 6500 South New Hope Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4490 www.dsbg.org

GASTON COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART & HISTORY This attraction is located in the former Hoffman Hotel which was built in 1852. The museum holds over 5,000 objects, 20,000 documents, and over 400,000 photos which span the period from the 1500â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s through the 20th century. Admission is free. 131 West Main Street, Dallas, NC 704-922-7681 www.gastoncountymuseum.org 6

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SCHIELE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY & PLANETARIUM Exceptional opportunities for visitors of all ages to see the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rocks and minerals, hill and rivers, plants and animals. Includes the largest collection of land mammal species in the Southeast. Visitors can see rotating planets, moons, galaxies, comets, asteroids and black holes across the domed ceiling in the planetarium. 500 E. Garrison Blvd., Gastonia, NC 28054 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. There is an abundance of collections displayed, including railroad memorabilia, sports memorabilia and military memorabilia. There is also the Research and Genealogy Center for visitors to look through genealogy and family records. Open 10 AM to 4 PM Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Admission is free. 112 Main St. Stanley, NC 28012 704-263-9801 www.brevardstation.com

BELMONT HISTORICAL SOCIETY, INC. Historical exhibits, records and a 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. Displays tell the story of early times in the greater Belmont area from the indians who traveled through here to the once thriving textile industry. There’s even a Sports Hall of Fame with lots of memorabilia housed here. Behind the center, a 1920’s mill village house has been restored as well as an outdoor kitchen. Open Friday, Saturday & Sunday 1PM to 5PM. Admission is free but donations are accepted. 40 Catawba Street Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4848 www.belmontnc-hs.org

MOUNT HOLLY HISTORICAL SOCIETY Explore the people, places and history of Mount Holly such as photographs and items from the textile, chemical, trucking and railroad industries that once thrived in this town. Rediscover a time gone as you browse past yearbooks from the Mount Holly High School. Monthly meetings are held on the 4th Tuesday (August to May) and are free and open to the public. Typical meetings include an interesting historical program and light refreshments and fellowship. Historical exhibits are on display before and after the meeting for meeting attendees to enjoy. Open every Saturday from 10AM to 1PM. Admission is free but donations are accepted. 131 South Main Street Mount Holly, NC 28012 704-827-7552 www.facebook.com/MHHSNC www.montcrossareachamber.com

Photo provided by Steve Rankin

CHRISTMASTOWN USA With almost a half-million lights decorating some 400 trees throughout town, McAdenville is a popular local attraction each December. Thousands of visitors drive or walk the nearly two mile route through town to view this spectacular holiday display. There’s live entertainment as well as scheduled appearances by Santa. www.mcadenville-christmastown.com

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

CROWDERS MOUNTAIN STATE PARK This 126 acre State Park is located on the western outskirts of Gaston County. The two peaks, Crowder’s Mountain and The Pinnacle are remnants of an ancient mountain range which formed some 400-500 million years ago and was gradually worn down by the elements. This is a popular destination for many outdoor enthusiasts such as hiking, rock climbing, backcountry camping, fishing, canoeing, picnicking, and bird watching. 522 Park Office Lane Kings Mountain, NC 28086 704-853-5375 www.ncparks.gov 8

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

DISCOVER YOU! CaroMont Health’s interactive health and wellness center has 17 stations designed to encourage visitors to maintain or retain their health. Admission is $5 adults, $4 seniors 60 and older, $3 children ages 5-18, and free for children 4 years old and younger. 420 E. Central Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-6770 www.discover-you.org

VISITOR CENTER

MUDDY RIVER DISTILLERY If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re over the age of 21 and looking for a fun and informative tour then this is a great opportunity. As the first legal rum distillery in the state, Muddy River Distillery is located in Belmont NC along the banks of the Catawba River. During an approximately 45 minute tour, visitors learn about the award winning products and see where everything is distilled, aged and bottled. Visitors receive a taste of each product and a Muddy River shot glass to take home. Visit the website to see tour times and rates. Reservation required, please. 1500 River Drive #100 Belmont, NC 28012 (336) 516-4190 www.muddyriverdistillery.com

The best place for first-time visitors to begin learning about Gaston County is the Visitor Center operated by Gaston County Travel and Tourism. Located at I-85 Exit 26 (Belmont Abbey College). Here 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 am- 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, and 10:00 am - 4:00 pm on Saturdays. 620 N. Main Street, Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-4044 www.visitgaston.org

GASTONIA GRIZZLIES The Gastonia Grizzlies, known as Gaston Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hometown team, are a collegiate summer baseball team playing in the Coastal Plain League. Entering their 13th season in 2014, the Grizzlies play their home games at Buddy Lewis Field at Sims Legion Park in Gastonia. 1001 N. Marietta St. Gastonia, NC 28054 704-866-8622 www.gastoniagrizzlies.com

For more information about Local Attractions & Events: www.visitgaston.org www.visitbelmontnc.org www.visitmounthollync.com

www.BelmontNCRealty.com

www.montcrossareachamber.com

Eastern Gaston County Prepares for Economic Growth [ Rebecca T. Dickinson ]

Donny Hicks, Executive Director of the Gaston County Economic Development Commission, said that Norfolk Southern’s new intermodal facility is projected to attract many jobs. It could add as many as 5,000 jobs by 2025 and is expected to generate $7.6 billion in regional economic development.

Aerial view of Charlotte Douglas International Airport

“It is an integration of rail and truck traffic,” Hicks said. “They’ll take goods and they’ll ship them on the train. They’ll send them to this intermodal yard at the airport, and the trucking company will pick it up at the rail yard and drive it the last forty to fifty miles.” 10

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

town charm for workers are all things that attract companies looking to move into the area.

Towns in Eastern Gaston County are located close to the Charlotte Douglas Airport. Traffic and development has increased and become more expensive in Charlotte. Hicks said that the closer a town is to the intermodal yard the less it costs manufacturing companies and business owners to ship goods. Business owners could save money in manufacturing by being located in Gaston County.

The $92 million intermodal facility is expected to have a traffic flow of 1,331 trucks. Jobs provided by the integration of transportation and manufacturing will include truckers, suppliers, and jobs created because the terminal is located at the airport.

Photo by Rob McKenzie Photography

The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s NCDOT, 2011 “Seven Portals Study” found that a new intermodal yard for Norfolk Southern was needed because the current 40-acre facility near uptown Charlotte had “reached its peak capacity.” Once completed, the new 200-acre terminal at Charlotte Douglas International Airport will bring all four modes transportation together – air, rail, truck and sea. The seaports of Charleston, SC, Savannah, GA, and Jacksonville, FL are all within easy access.

Towns in Eastern Gaston County will benefit from the intermodal yard because most of the communities have attractive areas for manufacturing companies. Access to Charlotte, top - notch education choices, dependable healthcare facilities, numerous recreational amenities, and the appeal of small

“The facility should allow economic developers in Eastern Gaston to attract more warehouses and manufacturing companies,” Hicks said. Currently, East Gaston County has business parks in Belmont, Mount Holly and Stanley. According to Hicks, there are about 150 acres of developed business property. Manufacturing will play an important role in the economic development of Eastern Gaston County because, according to Hicks, the U.S. has experienced a resurgence in manufacturing since the start of the recession. He said that the “face of manufacturing” is different today because jobs associated with manufacturing are now white collar jobs associated with technology, automation, and computers. “When we recruit these companies now, they’re looking for a location where they can

recruit white collar employees,” Hicks said. According to Charlotte USA, Gaston County is the second largest county included in the Charlotte area, and the organization said that “the county has used its manufacturing strength, talented work force and top-notch educational centers to capitalize on a transitional economy.” Eastern Gaston County has already attracted new manufacturing companies to some of its business parks. In 2010, Wilbert Plastic Services relocated from Chicago to Belmont in the Oaks Commerce Center. They are one of the top 25 plastic producers in the U.S. and manufacture plastic injection and heavy gauge thermoform products and assemblies for many industries.

One of the business parks in Gaston County

The 250-acre Oaks Commerce Center has room for more facilities to in this manufacturing park in the future. Hicks said the location is also attractive because it is conveniently located off of Interstate-85. Another manufacturing company will be coming to Mount Holly in the near future. Porter’s Fabrications has announced its purchase of 12 acres in Mount Holly. The property will house Porter’s 265,000 sq. ft. manufacturing center as well as their headquarters. Porter’s Fabrications works with sophisticated metal parts. According to Hicks, an example of what the company makes includes more than 90 percent of ATM machines in the U.S. According to their growth plan, the company could be looking to hire 270 skilled employees to produce these high quality fabricated metal pieces. Effects of economic development will be felt in Mount Holly and in nearby areas because workers at Porter’s Fabrications provide what Hicks calls “a daytime population.” “The manufacturing employment brings people with disposable income,” Hicks said. Employees will need to buy lunch locally, and there will be a need for retail sales.

“You have multi-shift operations so people will be at Porter’s Fabrication at different times of the day, so I think it will create some additional spin-off retail sales,” Hicks said.

Part of a successful economic development includes the quality of life, and higher paying jobs with companies like Wilbert Plastic Services and Porter’s Fabrications. Another plus for companies, who are looking to relocate to Eastern Gaston County, is the access of health care facilities that will be available for their employees.

TOP AREA EMPLOYERS Company

Employees

Gaston County Schools

1,000 & over

Caromont Health

1,000 & over

Gaston County

1,000 & over

Wal-Mart Associates

1,000 & over

American & Efird

1,000 & over

Wix Filtration

1,000 & over

Freightliner Corporation

1,000 & over

City of Gastonia

500-999

Pharr Yarns

500-999

Gaston College Dole Fresh Vegetables

500-999 500-999

Century Employer Organization

250-499

Integrated Staffing Solutions

250-499

Barrett Business Solutions

250-499

TOP MANUFACTURING EMPLOYERS

Construction is underway for a new 37,000 sq. ft. emergency medical center in Mount Holly and will officially be known as CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Mount Holly. The facility is being built near the intersection of N.C. 27 and N.C. 273, in the downtown area, and is scheduled to open in the spring of 2015. “The facility will bring additional medical services to the Eastern side of the county,” Hicks said. “There will be new medical office space and new medical employees from nurses to doctors. It will bring a lot of high paying jobs to the area.”

American & Efird

1,000 & over

Freightliner Corporation

1,000 & over

Wix Filtration Group

1,000 & over

Pharr Yarns

500-999

Dole Fresh Foods

250-499

FMC Corporation

250-499

Industrial Fabricators

250-499

Source: The North Carolina Employment Security Commission, Labor Market Information Division

Within walking distance of downtown Mount Holly, CaroMont Health employees can walk to local restaurants and stores. “It will be a huge boost for the downtown because it will create an influx of people who are in the area every day,” Hicks said. “They will need services. That will increase the spending and the economic activity in the Mount Holly area.”

www.alliancebanknc.com

CaroMont is the beginning for what will attract other medical offices to other parts of Eastern Gaston County. People will soon see medical services growing in the area. For more information about the Gaston County EDC, visit www.gaston.org.

awenmarketing.com www.montcrossareachamber.com

Small Businesses

PLAY BIG ROLE In Economic Development [ Written by Ted Hall | President, Montcross Area Chamber ]

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FORWARD TOGETHER plan complements, and does not compete with or duplicate services provided by the Gaston County Economic Development Commission. Working together, the Gaston County Economic Development Commission and the Montcross Area Chamber have been major collaboration partners in developing and implementing the FORWARD TOGETHER plan. Implementation began with assigning Teresa Rankin of the Chamber staff to new responsibilities focused on working directly with small businesses to help them find the support services they need to be successful.

Chamber’s long-range strategic plan to help small businesses survive, succeed, expand and create jobs. The plan was developed in 2010 by Montcross Area Chamber leaders frustrated because at a time when small businesses needed the Chamber most, funds to provide services were declining. A task force studied the dilemma and recommended the Chamber tell the community what it needed to accomplish for small businesses and ask for financial support. The FORWARD TOGETHER strategic plan was written and presented to more than 50 business and community leaders across Gaston County. Their responses showed that even during the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, the community would help the Chamber fund the programs it proposed to create jobs by strengthening small businesses. A fund raising campaign was launched, and after many months in 2010 and 2011, the Chamber received commitments of $375,000 over five years from 32 businesses, foundations, municipalities and individuals. Programs were implemented in 2012. By focusing on small business development and creating jobs one or two at a time, the

ore than 80 new jobs coming to Gaston County would attract TV cameras and big headlines under present economic conditions here. State and local incentives might be offered, and land might even be provided for a new commercial or industrial company. But 80-plus jobs being created one or two at a time in more than a dozen small businesses over several months doesn’t attract much attention. And helping hundreds of small businesses survive and retain the jobs they already provide, and in some cases adding an additional part-time or full-time employee, isn’t noticed at all. This kind of small-scale economic development has been the focus of the Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce’s FORWARD TOGETHER program for almost four years. Creating jobs one or two at a time isn’t glamorous, and it doesn’t generate big headlines or TV news coverage. But when one or two jobs are created time after time in many small businesses, there’s a positive impact on the economy of a town, a county, a state, even a country. FORWARD TOGETHER is the name of the

The FORWARD TOGETHER strategic plan calls for the Chamber to create jobs among Gaston County’s small businesses in three ways: Helping existing small businesses survive and grow and add an employee or two. Supporting entrepreneurs and helping others do better at starting new businesses here. Attracting new small businesses to locate in or move to Gaston County.

Using her 20 years of Chamber experience working with businesses in Gaston County, she partners with the Small Business Center at Gaston College, Belmont Abbey College, Ventureprise at UNCCharlotte and others to provide educational programs, one-on-one consulting and other types of assistance to hundreds of small business owners and managers. Mrs. Rankin also leads the FORWARD TOGETHER entrepreneur initiatives. An Entrepreneur Roundtable program brings together people interested in starting new businesses with those who successfully have started and grown businesses for information sharing and mentoring. An annual Entrepreneur Summit in Gaston County features regional entrepreneurs leading workshops and panel discussions on topics designed to demonstrate best practices for starting and growing businesses.

www.belmontsurpriseme.com

Vera Bradley • Lilly Pulitzer • Freakers • Tervis Tumblers Tyler Candles • Camille Beckman • Scarves Laser Engraving • Monogramming • MikWright Cards Natural Life • Angelica Jewelry • Salem Moravian Cookies Outdoor Items • Yard Art • Baby Items • Ganz Ribbon Wick Candles • Wood Wick Candles And much more!

140 N. Main St., Belmont, NC 28012

Monday - Friday 10am-6pm • Saturday 10am-4pm

Under FORWARD TOGETHER, responsibility rests with the Montcross Area Chamber president, Ted Hall, for working with new businesses considering locating here. Of 42 projects initiated in the past two years, 18 have resulted in businesses starting in or relocating to Gaston County, together providing 81 new jobs here, as of May 31, 2014. With FORWARD TOGETHER, the Montcross Area Chamber has focused its mission on what it does best – working with and supporting small businesses. Without the support of the 32 investor businesses, foundations, municipalities and individuals, FORWARD TOGETHER would not be possible. The investors are listed on the Chamber website at www.montrossareachamber.com under “economic development.” When historians write about how the United States rebounded from the recent economic crisis, they will give credit to small businesses and to thousands of local initiatives across the country like FORWARD TOGETHER that helped create jobs one or two at a time.

Moderator, Dr. Cheryl Richards (on left) with Panelists, Elain Lyerly and Janice Gravely at the 2013 Entrepreneur Summt; U.S. Rep. Patrick McHenry delivered the keynote address at the first Entrepreneur Summit; N.C. Secretary of Commerce, Sharon Decker with (on left) Walter Payne and Brian Herre (on right) at the Entrepreneur Summit 2013; N.C. Secretary of Commerce, Sharon Decker, was the Keynote speaker at the Entrepreneur Summit 2013; Marc Burns, Melia Lyerly, Candi Lethcoe, and Walter Payne during the Entrepreneurs Roundtable panel presentation and discussion

Belmont FLOORING CENTER

FREE ESTIMATES

21 E. Woodrow Ave | Belmont , NC 28012

704.825.9985 www.belmontflooringcenter.com www.montcrossareachamber.com

The Belmont Criterium features amateur and professional cyclist racing through the city’s streets

BELMONT POPULATION: 10,076

Tax Rate 47.5¢ per $100 valuation -------------------------------------------------------City Hall 115 N. Main Street, Belmont, NC 28012 Office Hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Friday ...................... 704-825-5586 www.cityofbelmont.org www.visitbelmontnc.org -------------------------------------------------------City Manager: Barry Webb -------------------------------------------------------Mayor: Charlie Martin -------------------------------------------------------Council Members Charlie Flowers Ron Foulk Ryan J. Schrift Martha S. Stowe Richard Turner 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 28012 -------------------------------------------------------Garbage, Recycling & Yard Debris Waste Pro ........................... 980-225-3800 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 Population based on 2010 Census

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Belmont is is a small, manageable, economically and ethnically mixed city. There are friendly neighbors and a true sense of community here. Located just 20 miles west of uptown Charlotte, Belmont is set along the banks of the Catawba River and Lake Wylie. This vibrant city offers the charm of a small-town setting with many amenities of big-city living. Belmont features an abundance of especially desirable community amenities, such as thriving entertainment; numerous shopping and dining options; a highly ranked school system; and outstanding recreational facilities.

Theatre, which brings in theatre artists from the surrounding Metrolina area. The Belmont Historical Society features artifacts, collections, and publications from the areas past. They also maintain a restored 1920’s Mill House and the Outdoor Kitchen from the RL Stowe house. Belmont Community Garden

Abbey Players / Belmont Community Theatre

The Theatre Community of Belmont Abbey College is called the Abbey Players, which has been in continuous production for the last 122 years. In addition, they function as the Belmont Community

Belmont has stayed true to its small-town roots, nurturing neighborly activities like block parties, little league baseball games, and an impressive community garden where local residents interested in growing their own healthy, organic vegetables can rent a 5’x10’ plot. Come summer, residents can look forward to weekly events featuring live music and

The annual Christmas Parade

The "Spy Tech Classic Car Cruise-In" is held Wednesday nights

community1.com

A new city park will be built along the Catawba River

much more. One of the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest beach music concert series, Friday Night Live, takes place on Fridays during the summer months in downtown Belmont on South Main Street - and it is completely free! Belmont boasts a flourishing economy rising from diversified industry and new construction. The city is home to a number of businesses, both large and small, and takes great pride in the progress that has occurred over the years.

www.stafford-jewelers.com www.montcrossareachamber.com

GROWTH & PROGRESS

Main Street Program Building Excitement In Belmont [ By Rebecca T. Dickinson ] Downtown Belmont

out all of Belmont, he said, while Main Street focuses on the central business district along Main and Catawba streets. In the past three years, FORWARD TOGETHER has helped 18 businesses start, accounting for 81 new jobs. (More about FORWARD TOGETHER on page 12). “The Chamber has been a long-time advocate for reactivating the Main Street Program in Belmont,” Hall said. “With the Chamber and Main Street working together, we’ll be able to accomplish much more for the city than either program could on its own.” Design in Belmont Using the four point approach, Belmont will recruit private investment. Those investors, according to Edwards, include property and business owners. Their investments will promote the physical beauty of downtown and East Belmont’s buildings, foster historic character, architecture, landscape and education. Edwards credits the Montcross Area Chamber for providing many educational seminars for investors.

After being inactive for several years, Belmont’s Main Street Program has been revived and is moving full speed ahead with plans being made for the future of the downtown area. “Everything we do in Belmont basically effects everyone, so everyone becomes a stakeholder,” said Downtown Director Reba Edwards. To run Belmont’s Main Street program successfully, an 11 member advisory board - including Town Manager, Adrian Miller, Montcross Area Chamber President, Ted Hall, two City Council members, property owners, and business owners - use a four point approach as advised by NC’s Office of Urban Development. The four point approach includes: design, promotion, economic restructuring, and awareness. Every part of the program - from the Board to Belmont’s residents - is meant to create an active and economically exciting community. In December 2013, former resident of Belmont, N.C. Secretary of Commerce, Sharon Decker said that by being a part of the Main Street program, Belmont provides “a vibrant Main Street setting for businesses and citizens.” According to Reba Edwards, the Main Street Program will include Belmont’s traditional downtown and East Belmont, part of Belmont’s historic business district. Currently, there are 120 businesses within the district. “We are going to work on developing a strategic plan,” Edwards said.

The FORWARD TOGETHER program works to strengthen existing businesses, start new businesses and attract new businesses through-

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

“When the data returns from the interviews the state does, the goal will be to develop a vision for what Belmont needs to be, preserve our uniqueness, and make our town more attractive for existing and potential residents,” Edwards said. When the results from the Urban Development’s study of Belmont are released, the Advisory Board will make recommendations with private investors. Belmont Promotion Plan As private investors are recruited by the Board, Edwards said that promotion plays another important role in attracting people to Belmont.

New Main Street communities are selected every three years through a competitive application process. Eligible communities must have a certified population under 50,000 and commit to hiring a full-time downtown manager and providing funding for operating the program for an initial three-year period.

“Main Street and the Montcross Area Chamber’s FORWARD TOGETHER program complement each other beautifully,” said Chamber President, Ted Hall.

24 16

The NC Office of Urban Development will also make recommendations for window displays, business signs, appropriate repairs to buildings, and restorations in a week-long study of Belmont.

“I’m working closely with Gaston County Travel and Tourism,” Edwards said. “We try to highlight certain spots in town.” The Advisory Board works with tourism companies and hotels to send information to travel and bus charter companies. According to Edwards, she sends data and packages showing the best of Belmont, what its businesses offer, and the variety of restaurants in town. “Promotion is one of the biggest things because it puts Belmont on the map,” Edwards said. With a team, Edwards will meet and greet visitors on a chartered bus, present the history of Belmont, and at the end, ask people what they like about the tour and what they dislike.

Events play a major role in attracting people to the businesses in downtown Belmont. While Belmont’s Friday Night Live events have been a success during

the summer, the Belmont Criterium has attracted many people to watch a competitive bicycle race. “It’s like NASCAR on two wheels,” Edwards said. The races featured International and Olympic teams. The Criterium also had food and drinks, a Kids Zone, and a wellness expo for spectators who attended the event. “It brings people to our town,” Edwards said. Economic Restructuring Before more events can attract people to the town, there is a technical side to helping the Main Street Program succeed in Belmont. According to Edwards, economic restructuring involves market analysis, entrepreneur development, recruitment and retention. “Market analysis is a retail report,” said Edwards to show statistically how businesses are performing in the local economy. Economic restructuring highlights what Belmont needs to become even more of an attraction. “What is needed for Belmont is to keep the foot traffic in downtown,” Edwards said. “The Board looks at what the supply and demand in Belmont will include. The economic restructuring provides documentation and data for what spaces are available in Belmont and the amount of available parking. Room for parking is another concern of the Board as well as business assistance. “We plan to offer education, or one-on-one business assistance, whether it is a tax credit, it can advise some of our investors,” Edwards said. Raising Awareness In the last part of the four-point approach, the program aims to strengthen public-private partnerships. “It gives people a sense of pride because they feel like they are involved, and they have a say in what they want their community to be like,” Edwards said. Partnerships have included the Board teaming with travel companies and hotels to promote Belmont. There are also private-public partnerships when it comes to recruiting sponsors for events, like the Criterium, in downtown. “With all of us working together, we’re working together for economic development,” Edwards said. “It balances the growth of the town.”

WatsonInsurance.com East Belmont

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Even dogs enjoy kayaking on the Catawba River

The Town Clock is an icon downtown

There are plenty of family fun events to enjoy 18

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Downtown Mount Holly has many unique shops and eateries

There are plenty of nearby trails to explore

Mount Holly Springfest

MOUNT HOLLY POPULATION: 13,656

Tax Rate .53¢ per $100 valuation -------------------------------------------------------City Hall 400 East Central Ave., Mount Holly, NC 28120 Office hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Friday ...................... 704-951-3000 www.mtholly.us -------------------------------------------------------City Manager: Danny Jackson -------------------------------------------------------Mayor: Bryan Hough -------------------------------------------------------Council Members Perry R. Toomey, Mayor Pro Tem Jerry K. Bishop Carolyn H. Breyare J. Jason Gowen Jim Hope David Moore The City Council meets at 7:00 pm on the 2nd and 6:30 pm on the 4th Monday of every month. The 2nd Monday is the monthly business meeting and the 4th Monday is the council roundatable worksession. Meetings are open to the public and are held at the Municipal Complex, 400 East Central Ave. -------------------------------------------------------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 Population based on 2010 Census

Nestled along the banks of the slow-moving Catawba River, the riverside town of Mount Holly is a common rest stop for travelers driving along Interstate 85. Once you’ve strolled through the downtown historic district, browsed the unique stores, and shopped the weekend farmers market, it might be hard to get back in the car and leave. Just a hop, skip, and a jump across the river to Charlotte, Mount Holly is is home to a diverse community of professionals, blue-collar workers, and retiree's. Here you’ll find all the musts on a small-town wish list, from historic homes and tree-lined streets to homemade eats and friendly locals. This city feels like a getaway, offering the convenience of living near a bustling, metropolitan area but in a peaceful, small town setting. A reputation for hospitality and warmth is just one of the elements that attract so many to this city. How much do residents of Mount Holly love their city? Go to one of their many community events to find out. Be it Springfest, Concerts and Movies in the Park, Mount Holly Arts Festival, or Mount Hollydays the year-round events will keep the whole family busy. Mount Holly is also your home for outdoor adventure. Paddle down the Catawba River on a kayak or canoe, or enjoy the many miles of trails for walking, running or bike riding at the local parks. Located just across the river is the US National Whitewater Center, where you can enjoy whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, zip lines and ropes courses.

Skateboard Park at Tuckaseege Park

As Gaston County continues to grow, so do the services available here to meet the medical needs of residents and visitors. Construction has begun on the CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Mount Holly near the intersection of N.C. 27 and N.C. 273, across from the Mount Holly Citizens Center. This 37,000-square-foot facility will be a freestanding extension of CaroMont Regional Medical Center in Gastonia. The MedPlex is expected to open either in the spring or early summer of 2015. CaroMont Health also operates an interactive attraction called, Discover You! This interactive health and wellness center is filled with exhibits designed to inform and educate visitors about healthy living.

CaroMont’s Groundbreaking was in September 2013

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GROWTH & PROGRESS

Mount Holly Draws Attention And Prepares Downtown For The Future [ By Rebecca T. Dickinson ]

Danny Jackson

A kayak bursts out of a billboard. Drivers on Interstate-85 spot the eye-catching,threedimensional advertisement and one of Gaston County’s economic diamonds: Mount Holly.

Mount Holly City Manager

According to Mount Holly City Manager, Danny Jackson, hotels in Mount Holly pay a 3% tax. The Mount Holly Tourism Development Authority decides how to use the money from the taxes for marketing and regulations. According to Chairperson

Wendy Foster, most advertising agencies expect a town to spend about $12,000 on a billboard that is unique. The Mount Holly Tourism Development Authority worked with an advertising agency beginning in May 2013. The agency kept presenting new designs, but the Mount Holly Tourism Development Authority wanted something bigger and more attention grabbing. The advertisement needed to include outdoor adventures such as kayaking, and the US National Whitewater Center, since the nearest hotel to this local outdoor attraction is located in Mount Holly. “We set it up for people to see the name of the town, so that when they saw those things that were on the billboard, our name would become synonymous with them,” Foster said. The billboard went up in August 2013, and the Tourism Development Authority is currently working with the same agency to plan for another billboard in the future. The Mount Holly Tourism Development Authority is just one of several teams working hard to attract eyes

Tailrace Marina

to Mount Holly. But, Mount Holly boasts more than attractive billboards. According to Movoto Real Estate, Mount Holly is one of the 10 Best Places to Retire in North Carolina. The number one spot where people choose to retire in N.C. was a tough choice between Morrisville and Mount Holly. Ultimately, Mount Holly finished in second. The decision was based on U.S. census data and five categories, including total amenities. It refers to what people like about the local economy, and what it offers its residents and new companies. “There are new residential areas coming to Mount Holly,” Jackson said. “People want to go where there is a good place and where companies prosper. The local economy has been good in the midst of a down economy.” Mount Holly will expand again this year with the addition of a riverfront subdivision adjacent to the Catawba River located on Marina Village Drive. Mount Holly Town Council approved the rezoning of 10.9 acres at the Tailrace Marina Riverfront Subdivision in December, 2013. According to Jackson, the Town Council also approved a three-story apartment complex as part of a $50 million investment for future economic development. Jackson said that future residents will have access to the marina, and there are plenty of landings for boats. The development will include a 8,400 sq. ft. restaurant, 25,000 sq. ft. for commercial space, 124 apartments, and 34 condos. CaroMont’s new medical facility across the street from the Mount Holly Municipal Building is also expected to boost the town’s strength for economic develop-

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Vacations • Cruises • Honeymoons • Business Travel • Groups • Missionary Travel

ment. The building will provide immediate healthcare services to everyone in Gaston County. Jackson said that people will no longer have to drive to Charlotte or Gastonia for all medical emergencies.

Best Travel Agency Creative Travel Best Travel Agent Rebecca Johns

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“Leading up to CaroMont’s approval by state agencies, there was a lot of buzz about people being excited about having a healthcare facility here,” Jackson said. “Now that they can see it’s actually here, it ups the ante.” The two-story structure on East Charlotte Ave. will be 40,000 sq. ft., and provide in-patient and outpatient care to more than 100,000 patients a year. According to a projects report, the building’s style will reflect a “historic mill building.” It will offer patients 12 emergency rooms and two trauma rooms. This healthcare facility is expected to hire 10 physicians and 59 other positions ranging from nurses to technicians. CaroMont is part of a future in which Mount Holly hopes to attract more healthcare facilities and businesses opportunities. Construction of CaroMont’s new medical facility

“I’m excited about the work we have to do, and look forward to continuing to do that work,” Jackson said.

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

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CRAMERTON POPULATION: 4,156

Tax Rate 47.5¢ per $100 valuation -------------------------------------------------------City Hall 155 North Main St., Cramerton, NC 28032 Office hours are 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Friday ...................... 704-824-4337 www.cramerton.org -------------------------------------------------------City Manager: Michael C. Peoples -------------------------------------------------------Mayor: Ronnie Worley -------------------------------------------------------Town Commissioners Will Cauthen, Mayor Pro Tem Sam Carpenter Demetrios Koutsoupias Tammy Lawrence Sandra R. 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 Water & Sewer - 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 Population based on 2010 Census

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Textile factories and mill houses come to mind when people think about the history of Cramerton. These days the town is blazing a new trail with a new new park, new high school, and new residential and commercial communities. Cramerton is a great town that's in the midst of getting even better. The town is an American classic located along the banks of the South Fork River and is devoting itself to outdoor recreation with miles and miles of walking/ running trails, a disc golf course, and access ramps for kayaking the river. The town currently boasts 84 acres of park land. The opening of Goat Island Park and Greenway in 2012 was a huge success for the town. Phase II is underway and will consist of a pedestrian bridge, among other amenities, that will connect Town Center to the Island and bring new life to Cramerton’s minimal downtown. Town Center anchors the community and serves as a gathering spot for local events, like the Concerts on the Green summer series. Downtown is dotted with one-of-a-kind stores and homegrown eateries. Cramerton offers something for everyone, including convenience, character and a strong sense of community. It's a great place to raise a family, with well-regarded schools and a safe community. Residents and visitors alike enjoy a number of cultural and civic activities throughout the year including the annual Easter Egg Hunt, 4th of July Celebration, Rockin the River, Fall Carnival, and Christmas Parade.

Every Saturday from May through September, area farmers and volunteers set up their tables and tents at Town Center in downtown. Residents hit the Saturday farmer's market to shop for fresh fruit and vegetables, jellies and jams, homemade baked goods. and even various all-natural meats like grass-fed ground beef, steak, pork. It’s a food lover’s paradise-and it’s benefits like these that get numerous people out of bed on Saturday morning to visit the Cramerton Farmers’ Market.

Enjoying strawberries at the Farmers Market

Live music at the open air amphitheater

Kids in costume for the Halloweed celebration

Stuart W. Cramer High School

GROWTH & PROGRESS

Cramerton Expands Residential, Retail, and Recreational Opportunities

No matter where you go in Cramerton, one project connects to another. Economic development in Cramerton revolves around the town’s ability to attract state-of-the-art multi -use Michael Peoples residential developments, Cramerton Town Manager recreation on the South Fork River, and businesses that focus on outdoor activities and the visitors they bring to town. More than five miles of Carolina Thread Trail and Goat Island Park offer a nature getaway for adventurous travelers. Cramerton has worked with planners to incorporate and connect the different sections of the Carolinas Thread Trail into new developments being built with Goat Island Park and Stuart W. Cramer High School. “The new high school features a portion of the Thread Trail,” said Town Manager, Michael Peoples. “The Village at Cramerton Mills will feature a portion of the thread trail, and Village at South Fork will as well...It will leave a gap in between Goat Island Park and the Village at South Fork, but the town has secured funding through DOT to construct that portion of the trail too.” According to Peoples, the $750,000 project to build another portion of the Carolinas Thread Trail will not cost the Town of Cramerton any

money. It is completely funded through the North Carolina Department of Transportation, and it will be completed in three years.

Disc Golf

[ By Rebecca T. Dickinson ]

Goat Island Since it was built, Goat Island Park has attracted many visitors to Cramerton. “Goat Island is part of the Thread Trail,” Peoples said. “That is the major north - south corridor in Gaston County.” Located in the center of Cramerton, the 30acre park has become a fishing, canoeing and walking destination. It also features a unique and natural tree house playground for children as well as a 18-hole disc golf course. Phase II Plans

Phase II of the Goat Island project will expand economic opportunities for Cramerton’s downtown district even more. A pedestrian bridge will connect Goat Island to Town

Disc golf, also known as frisbee golf, is a flying disc game, as well as a precision and accuracy sport, in which individual players throw a flying disc at a target. The game of disc golf is one of the fastest growing sports in the world today. The golf discs used are much smaller and heavier than traditional flying discs, usually 8-9 inches. Discs used for disc golf are designed and shaped for control, speed, and accuracy. There is a wide variety of discs used in disc golf and they are generally divided into three categories: putters, all-purpose mid-range discs, and drivers.

continued on next page

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Center. According to Town Manager, Michael Peoples, current business owners in downtown are excited about the new bridge because it will bring more foot traffic to Cramerton. “The second bridge is a huge link to completing the thread trail here in Gaston County,” Peoples said. Current and potential business owners may also open businesses that cater to the river and other recreational activities. One business already offers kayaks and canoe rentals. Other amenities that will be added during Phase II include a designated dog park, observation platform beside the new pedestrian bridge, playground equipment specifically designed for 2-5 year olds, and permanent corn hole boards as well as table tennis. Construction of this new phase is expected to be completed by the summer of 2015.

Stuart W. Cramer High School is in view of the Village at South Fork, a detail that Peoples said makes the development even more appealing to families with high school age children moving into the area. The Village at Cramerton Mills Another multi-purpose development will begin in late 2014 to early 2015 and will be constructed in multiple phases over a several years. The Villages at Cramerton Mills will be located on Cramer Mountain Road, Hamrick Road, and beside the Baltimore Community. With a variety of residential options and retail spaces, the Village at Cramerton Mills will feature environmentally sensitive planning. The Town of Cramerton has worked with Bowman Development Group and Amicus Group’s, Nick Parker since 2008 and 2009 to develop a multi-purpose development that will be a model for the rest of North Carolina. Artist rendering of some of the proposed homes to be built at The Village at Cramerton Mills

Village at South Fork Located along Wilkinson Boulevard and bordered by the South Fork River, the Village at South Fork will offer new housing opportunities to the area. The multi-use development will also present retail space opportunities to potential business owners. Once completed, the Village at South Fork will offer commercial space, multi-family apartments, townhomes, single family homes, and over 30 acres of open space for walking and bike trails, according to Hopper Communities’s design plans. According to Peoples, the first phase will include 352 apartments and 8,000 sq. ft. of retail space. There are one, two, and three-bedroom apartments available to rent. He said that the apartments are almost complete. Upscale apartments at Village at South Fork

“This development will have a small impact on the environment,” Peoples said. “It is a very unique project that has not been seen in North Carolina.” The development will include 284 apartments and 406 single family homes. The mixed-use development will also include 124,000 sq. ft. of office and retail space as well as 168,500 sq. ft. of light industrial and manufacturing space on 132 acres. “From the Town as it is now with the different components, we’re very heavily residential. To have more diverse land use such as the introduction of light manufacturing and then office and retail, that’s huge for the town. It is huge to have people live in the neighborhood, to work in the neighborhood, and to shop in the neighborhood”, Peoples said. Peoples adds that the quality of life amenities will also promote economic development, including nearby shopping and a pool. “It’s never been seen in the history of the Town of Cramerton, since the creation of the Town of Cramerton as a village,” Peoples said. “A lot of really creative things have been done with that project to zero out the use of energy consumption.”

“The general feeling of the town is that this is exciting after seeing the plan being approved in 2008, that finally this project is coming to fruition,” Peoples said, “it’s a very visible project on Wilkinson Boulevard”. The complex offers attractive retail space for potential business owners. According to Peoples, most of the properties located downtown are full, but the Village at South Fork offers space to businesses that want to be a part of Cramerton. Peoples adds the retail space will be completed in late 2014.

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Instead of mass clearing land for a new development, the plans were created so that developers would work with the existing topography. According to Peoples, traditionally developers go into an area and remove everything before they begin building. In addition, there will be 21 acres of proposed green space as well as 2.5 miles of neighborhood trails. Cramer Mountain Club Residents in Cramerton are also actively involved in redeveloping part of the town. According to Peoples, there are plans proposed to use the land with

the former Cramer Mountain Country Club residential units. Now called Cramer Mountain Club, the club will run differently under new ownership and management, but will still offer the amenities for recreation. Those amenities include the clubhouse with its pool, tennis courts, and the golf course. No date has been set for the reopening, but with the hiring of its first employee, the Golf Course Superintendent, things are definitely moving in the right direction.

southforkvillage.com

Entrance to the Cramer Mountain community

Stuart W. Cramer High School on Lakewood Road

ocated along the banks of the South Fork River, Cramerton is a town rich in textile history and is proud to honor that history by featuring Stuart W. Cramer High School. This new state-ofthe-art educational facility is a welcomed additon to an already superior school district. Residents and visitors can enjoy nature in all its splendor with miles of greenways and blueways. Rent a kayak for a paddle on the South Fork River, browse the shops for a treasure, or tempt your tastebuds at one of our local restaurants. Goat Island, a 30-acre island located in the center of Cramerton has recently been transformed into a park offering amenities for everyone. Adults and children can enjoy the playground, go fishing or canoeing, take in an outdoor concert, play 18 holes of disc golf, or take a stroll around the walking trails. Come see for yourself why this little mill village is a town like no other with so much to offer.

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

SMALL TOWN CHARM • FRIENDLY NEIGHBORS • UNIQUE SHOPPING • QUAINT EATERIES • ENDLESS OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES www.montcrossareachamber.com

Lowell City Hall

Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

George Poston Park offers over 10 miles of mountain bike trails

Freedom Festival at Harold Rankin Park

Kids enjoying the chair swing ride at the Freedom Festival

Local downtown businesses

LOWELL POPULATION: 3,526

Tax Rate .40¢ per $100 valuation -------------------------------------------------------Town Hall 101 W. First Street, Lowell, NC 28098 Office hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Friday ...................... 704-824-3518 www.lowellnc.com -------------------------------------------------------City Manager: Al Greene -------------------------------------------------------Mayor: Larry Simonds -------------------------------------------------------Council Members Shane Robinson, Mayor Pro-Tem Terry Benson Martha A. Burris Rickie Bush Sam R. Mitchem City Council meets at 7:00 p.m. on the second Monday of each month at Town Hall -------------------------------------------------------Utilities Pay water and sewer bills at Town Hall, 101 W. First Street, Lowell, NC 28098 -------------------------------------------------------Trash Service Trash containers are scheduled for collection on Monday thru Wednesday according to street location ... 704-824-3518 704-824-1072 -------------------------------------------------------Other Frequent Numbers Police (non-emergency) ......... 704-866-3300 Police (office) ......................... 704-824-8540 Fire ....................................... 704-824-3357 Post Office ............................. 704-824-1101 Library .................................. 704-824-1266 Parks & Recreation ................ 704-824-0099 Population based on 2010 Census

Small and spirited, Lowell offers quiet, treeshaded residential areas, lovely parks, and a full slate of community activities. Main Street is home to an array of mom-and-pop businesses and local eateries with downhome offerings. This all-American town has the advantage of being a small community close to the large metropolitan area of Charlotte, NC. The town has a growing population and a large surrounding population that contributes to the success of the community. One of the strong points of this town is it’s location. Located just off I-85 at exit 22, it’s convenient to a variety of restaurants and retail shopping. Other attractions include George Poston Park and the South Fork River Residents of Lowell enjoy easy access to some of area’s best features. A short drive to the east is Charlotte, NC. While Gastonia, NC is located to the west. Lowell is close enough to be convenient for those who commute to work, but removed from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. Relaxed residential neighborhoods filled with families, friends, and plenty of open space make this the perfect place to call home. The streets are primarily filled with single family homes, with a few apartment buildings scattered throughout. The housing costs here are reasonably affordable. The residents here enjoy a laid back atmosphere, in a safe and spacious haven with a strong sense of community. Good schools and a low crime rate make Lowell a perfect family place.

Lowell is a community that takes pride in its events. They are a great way to explore the town, learn something new and connect with family, friends and neighbors. Celebrate with family fun, music, kids activities, food, live musical entertainment, community booths and fireworks at the annual Freedom Festival. Kick off the fall season at the annual Octoberfest where you can buy handmade crafts and pottery, as well as enjoy live music, food and kids activities! Residents hit the weekly farmer’s market at on East Second Street in downtown Lowell. From June through September the market is open from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. every Thursday. Find homemade baked goods, cheeses, and in-season produce. Shopping at the market means getting the best produce, freshly picked. Some booths even offer free tastings. Lowell is lucky to be a four-season city. There are plenty of recreational activities to choose from, no matter what your fitness level or idea of fun. The town boasts numerous miles of hiking, biking and walking trails throughout the local parks and open spaces. Easy access to the South Fork River allows kayakers to take a leisurely paddle. The Parks & Recreation Department offers baseball, basketball and soccer leagues for kids and Senior programs for older adults.

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GROWTH & PROGRESS

Lowell Makes It Work By Working Together [ By Rebecca T. Dickinson ]

Nowadays, Twitter feeds flash the latest hashtag across the screen of smart phones. In the age of technology, some businesses might try to market their products better than their local competition. But, Lowell’s businesses work together online and offline to promote each other. Pam Smith of S&L Creations, Inc. and President of the Lowell Merchants Association, said, “the Association has come together, and even though we have some businesses that are similar...they work together promoting each other.” For example, if a customer is looking for a particular item and one consignment shop does not have it, the owner will work with other consignment shops in Lowell to try to locate that item. Although the economy has been challenging for small businesses, they believe in the interdependent promotion and support. The Merchants Association offers support for many of the businesses in Lowell. Smith, one of the founders, said the Association works with businesses in downtown and those located around Lowell. We want to show how well we work with businesses, the Town Council, the Park and Recreation Department, and with the Lowell Woman’s Club, Smith said. At the May 2014 Freedom Festival, everyone worked together to host the festival at Harold Rankin Park on Main street. The Merchants Association set up a tent and hosted a raffle with a new gas grill given

away as the prize. One of the members posted the picture on Facebook encouraging people to come to the festival and buy a raffle ticket. In its ninth year, thousands of people attended the 2014 festival and could see the grill set up in front of the tent. The raffle is just one of many ways that Association members worked together to attract people to find out about Lowell’s businesses, Smith said. Business owners in Lowell also become involved with the community to promote other town events. They post information about events on their Facebook pages and Twitter feeds. According to Smith, they also put flyers in their windows and hang them on their doors. “The town government and local merchants have formed a very strong working relationship and partnership on a variety of mutually beneficial projects and events throughout the year,” said Town Manager, Al Greene. “The Merchants Association is there for support just like the town is there when we put on an event,” Smith said. Members of the Association work with the town at the Light Up Lowell Festival. A merchant basket that includes donated items from each business. is given away. Business cards, with the Merchants information, are then stapled to the items. For the Easter Egg Hunt in April, the businesses worked together again to put gift cards in an Easter basket. Customers hoping to win the basket make a ten dollar minimum purchase at one of the local businesses and then enter their names in the raffle.

People hope to hear their name for one of the many giveaways during Freedom Festival

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

But, Lowell is not done growing. According to Greene, Lowell remains “one of the last frontiers in Gaston County.” It features a quality of life attractive to families through its safety, community participation, and parks and recreation programs for children.

Businesses along Main Street

Most of Lowell’s potential retail space exists at Exit 22 off of I-85. The property consists of eight acres, and the property owners would like to see hotels, financial buildings, medical facilities, and restaurants built on the site. According to Greene, the property is already zoned as highway commercial, which would work with potential retail and restaurant owners. Land off of I-85 is a high-visibility and high-traffic area with outstanding business poential

Greene said potential retail owners would, “enjoy the advantages of small town living while having immediate access to the variety of amenities offered by more urban development.” According to Smith, restaurants remain a business that Lowell wants to add, so residents do not have to drive out of Lowell to dine. Restaurants would also attract people visiting Lowell. During the summer, people have a reason to visit the town and buy food at Lowell’s

Farmer’s Market. The Farmer’s Market has live musicians, and a wide variety of vegetables. Smith said, business owners and members of the town government like the farmer’s market because it attracts people to Lowell and its businesses.

...Where REAL Women Shop!

Ladies Consignments Size 14 and Up mybigsistersclosetboutique.com 119 N. Main Street • Lowell, NC 704-824-5403

Residents of Lowell have spoken about what type of potential businesses they would like to see in the community in the future.

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Vendors line the street at the weekly Farmer’s Market

“We receive a high level of quality responses from our citizens and they share their views of current services and programs offered by the city, as well as their aspirations for the future,” Greene said. The residents would like to have a grocery store and a drug store. The drug store would help local health care, and both businesses eliminate the need for residents to travel outside of the town limits. The Merchants Association also offers non-perishable food items to the Lowell Volunteer Fire Department, the Fighting 17 Hunger Squad, for its “Feed a Family for the Weekend.” The program helps feed children in Lowell who are in need of food.

Ladies Consignments Sizes 0-12, Small to Large

The future looks bright in Lowell with local businesses, town leaders, and residents working together to advance and promote this gem of a community.

Shop Local...

Allure Salon & Spa

Franklin Signs & Graphics

122 E. First St. • 704-824-2210

Anna P’s Consignments

105 Henderson St. • 704-824-5505 www.franklinsignsandgraphics.com

123 N. Main St. • 704-824-5403

Hillbilly’s BBQ & Steaks

Campbell’s Jewelers

720 McAdenville Rd. • 704-824-8838 www.hillbillysbbqsteaks.com

118 N. Main St. • 704-824-4069

Christopher’s 125 North Main Restaurant 125 N. Main St. • 704-879-4073 www.125nmain.com

Fine Things Consigned 106 E. First St. • 704-824-3312

Lowell Pump & Water 828 Groves St. • 704-824-2851

123 North Main St. Lowell, NC 28098 704-824-5403

Shop Lowell

McKenney Chevrolet

Sissy’s Hair Design

Lowell, NC • 704-823-1040 www.mckenneychevrolet.com

112 N. Main St. • 704-616-5681

My Big Sister’s Closet 119 N. Main St. • 704-824-5403 www.mybigsistersclosetboutique.com

Randy’s Garage 123 E. First St. • 704-824-2310

S & L Creations 120 E. First St. • 704-824-1930

Mattie Mae’s Boutique & Salon

Sam’s Pawn & Jewelry

110 N. Main St. • 704-823-0384 www.mattiemaes.com

4633 Wilkinson Blvd. • 704-824-9656 www.samspawnonline.com

Speed Street Collision Center 608-B Ford Dr. • 704-879-4359 www.myspeedstreet.com

The Corner Grocery 101 McAdenville Rd. • 704-824-5100

Trident Building Services Lowell, NC • 704-913-6441 www.tridentbuildinginc.com Contact any of these businesses for Information about joining the Lowell Merchants Association

VISIT THESE LOWELL MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION BUSINESSES FOR QUALITY PRODUCTS & SERVICES www.montcrossareachamber.com

POPULATION: 698

Tax Rate .30¢ per $100 valuation -------------------------------------------------------City Hall 125 Main Street McAdenville, NC 28101 Office hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday ...................... 704-824-3190 www.mcadenvillenc.com -------------------------------------------------------Town Administrator: Crystal Certain -------------------------------------------------------Mayor: Farrell Buchanan -------------------------------------------------------Council Members Carrie Bailey, Mayor Pro Tem Jesse J. Bachman Jay McCosh Joe Rankin Jim Robinette Town Council holds their regular meetings the second Tuesday of every month at 5pm at 125 Main Street, McAdenville, NC 28101 -------------------------------------------------------Utilities Pay water and sewer bills at Town Hall, 125 Main Street, during normal business hours ...................... 704-824-3190 -------------------------------------------------------Trash & Recycables Service Harrison Sanitation, Inc. ........ 704-263-2340 -------------------------------------------------------Other Frequent Numbers Fire .................... 704-824-3915 (Cramerton) Cramerton Police 704-824-3915 (Administrator) 704-866-3300 (non-emergency) Post Office ............................. 704-824-0915 McAdenville Community Center/ William J Pharr Family YMCA .... 704-824-1131 Population based on 2010 Census

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Town lake during the annual Christmas celebration

The Town of McAdenville is a cohesive and diverse community where residents and visitors experience the characteristic charm that offers a safe, friendly and peaceful atmosphere. There’s a reason people feel that McAdenville is so real and genuine - it is! Should you stop someone on the street to ask directions to the local diner, there’s a good chance they’ll just walk you right over. The downtown area has been very well kept and is a beautiful sight to see with all the trees and lush greenery. Numerous old homes have also been renovated adding a "touch of class" to the town. Time has always brought many changes, and the town of McAdenville is no different when it comes to change. Today, with a population slightly less than 700, McAdenville’s future continues to be as bright as all the Christmas lights on display in this quaint town each year during Christmas. Today's town leaders work together for a better community in which the residents can be proud. But to understand completely the overall importance of the town of McAdenville and its bright future, one must have a full understanding of its rich heritage. (see inset on opposite page)

With the tradition starting in 1956, the annual holiday light show has grown to be one of the nation's largest. Each year, over 500,000 red, white and green lights decorate some 375 trees throughout town with special displays that surround the lake at the town’s center. Each year the McAdenville Elementary School holds a contest for its students where the winner has the privilege of pulling the BIG SWITCH to turn on the lights. This ceremony takes place at Legacy Park on Elm Street in downtown McAdenville. This annual Christmas celebration has earned McAdenville the title of “Christmas Town, USA”. Today, McAdenville is a dynamic community. A majority of the old frame mill houses that stood for decades have been replaced with upscale single-family homes built around the town’s central lake. A lighted bridge was built several years ago with sidewalks and bike lanes crossing the scenic South Fork River. McAdenville’s small town atmosphere and endless beauty resonates the charm of a southern town. It’s a place to raise your family, retire and be as busy or as remote as you want to be. And it’s a great place to escape from the maddening city bustle.

No other place allows you to embrace and experience the magic of the Christmas season quite like McAdenville.

Photo provided by Steve Rankin

McADENVILLE

The town sign upon crossing the J.M. Carstarphen Bridge

Christmas celebrations at Legacy Park

Post Office

GROWTH & PROGRESS

McAdenville Upgrades Businesses, Houses, And Prepares For The Future

Heritage

[ By Rebecca T. Dickinson ]

Located along the banks of the South Fork River, this area was first settled in 1881 and was then known as Spring Shoals. In 1883, the local textile mill was purchased by Rufus McAden and became McAden Mill and soon the state franchised the community of McAdenville. Ever since then it has been a community built around the textile mill. The mill was hit hard by the Great Depression, and closed in 1935. The mill employees struggled through the aftermath of the Depression until the mill was bought by Pharr Yarns and things began to turn around for the residents of this close-knit community. In 1956, some of the individuals from the McAdenville’s Mens Club decided it would be nice to decorate a few living trees around the Community Center. Nine trees were lit that year. Since then, the Christmas lights have continued delighting visitors of all ages!

Christmastown Dentistry is proud to announce the relocation of their office to a new location in McAdenville which will blend small town charm with 21st century technology. The craftsman style structure will feature 10 treatment rooms, state - of - the - art technology including ceiling mounted TV’s, and will fit in with the historical character of McAdenville (aka Christmas Town, USA). According to dentist and owner Dr. Travis Nixon, the practice started to experience “growing pains” in 2011 at 131 Main St. and needed a new facility that would better meet the needs of his patients and staff. With careful planning that included his staff, Patterson Dental Company, Pharr Yarns, the Town of McAdenville, along with Adam Horowitz and Rick Harris of Fusion General Contractors, he started on the journey of building an office that would be as close to perfect as possible. However, despite the need for growth, Dr. Nixon had a strong desire to hold on to the one characteristic that allowed the growth in the first place - developing a close personal relationship with each and every patient. As Nixon states it, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. I feel extremely blessed to work with a nurturing staff who embodies this attitude.

We truly feel connected to all of our patients and gladly extend a welcome to those who might want to come join our growing dental family.” Every aspect of the new office, from the comfortable reception area furniture to the beverage center, will be centered around patient comfort. Historical features will also be on display, like the brick and wood timbers reclaimed from the 1880’s textile mill that once stood in McAdenville. With the collaboration of interior designer Jodi Kines, owner of Plan.It Design of Belmont, the dental office will be like no other in both style and innovation.

Construction site

As the founder of Christmas Town, USA, Pharr Yarns has been an innovator in business and has provided a rich history for more than 60 years in the town through the annual continued on next page

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Christmas lights tradition. Dr. Nixon embraces this tradition and is excited about the future of the town. He looks forward to working with local government officials and the business community in bringing more businesses to McAdenville and the surrounding area. “As a lifelong resident of Gaston County, I’m proud to call this area my home and look forward to what the future may hold,” says Nixon.

worked with the town last year to add a large fireplace with a chimney where a yule log glows during McAdenville’s Christmas festivities. New features in Christmastown, USA - as McAdenville is nicknamed - add to its attractiveness to potential businesses. “It was used so much when we had our Yule Log parade in 2013,” Buchanan said.

Located next to McAdenville Elementary School at 309 Wesleyan Drive, Christmastown Dentistry will also feature a sidewalk and parking for Christmas time visitors after 5 pm in an effort to promote foot traffic in the town.

Legacy Park

The space at 131 Main St. will open up an opportunity for a new business or restaurant. Economic developers and the Town Council want to offer more retail and restaurant space to attract foot and vehicle traffic throughout the year. Owners of properties in McAdenville, including Pharr Yarns, are now looking at ways to increase parking and develop more property. For McAdenville and Christmastown Dentistry, the future is certainly looking bright!! Pharr Yarns and Belmont Land and Investment Co., Inc, have already made plans for future residential growth. New spec homes are scheduled to be built as part of McAdenville Village. This residential community features neo-traditional architecture and is within walking distance to downtown. The homes in this neighborhood feature McAdenville’s character and historical charm while offering modern amenities. Quality of life attracts new businesses and industry to a town like McAdenville. The town has worked hard with the help of grants and private donations to complete new phases of the town’s Legacy Park. Once just an empty lot in the downtown area, the park has playground equipment, benches, picnic table and a concrete pad that serves as a stage for performances. According to McAdenville Mayor Farrell Buchanan, Pharr Yarns

McAdenville is special because, Buchanan said, it also wants to improve the quality of some of the older homes, too. The Forest Heights community never had sewer service, and McAdenville recently received a $750,000 grant to help about 30 homes receive water and sewer services. “We are looking at applying for grants for our older, established homes that have been a part of McAdenville forever,” Buchanan said. The importance in providing water and sewer shows the town’s commitment to build a growing community of residents and businesses. McAdenville has upgraded its Waste Water Treatment Plant by upgrading equipment.

Farrell Buchanan McAdenville Mayor

“It is now efficient enough for the homes that are being built in McAdenville Village,” Buchanan said. McAdenville is not finished with its plans for refurbishing, developing land, creating downtown space for new businesses, or attracting new residents. McAdenville is holding twenty-first century technology in one hand while developing attractive mill town architecture with the other.

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Homes in McAdenville Village

Legacy Park in McAdenville

LOCAL PARKS Gaston County Parks & Recreation ......704-922-2160 www.co.gaston.nc.us/parksandrec/index.HTM

Riverside Park & Greenway Riverside Dr., Cramerton

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Belmont Parks & Recreation ................ 704-825-8191 www.cityofbelmont.org/Departments/ParksandRecreationDepartment.aspx ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

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

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

Gaston County Park at North Belmont 3110 Hickory Grove Road Gastonia South Fork River Park 4185 Mountain View St. Gastonia

Mount Holly Parks & Recreation ......... 704-951-3006 www.mtholly.us/departments/parks-recreation/ ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Stanley Parks & Recreation .................. 704-263-4000 www.townofstanley.org/departments/parks-rec/

Crescent Park 611 E. Catawba Street Belmont Davis Park 204 Park Dr., Belmont Gaston County Park at Belmont Central Elementary School 310 Eagle Rd., Belmont Gaston County Park at Catawba Heights Elementary School 101 Ivey St., Belmont Linford Park Cason St., Belmont

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

Reid Park 305 Sacco St., Belmont

Joe Hudson Park South Main St., Lowell

Rodden Ballfield 135 Vine St., Belmont

Legacy Park Elm St., McAdenville

Stowe Park 24 S. Main St., Belmont

McDonald Field 149 Park Dr., McAdenville

Central Park High St., Cramerton Lakewood Park Lakewood Subdivision Cramerton Gaston County Park at Cramerton Middle School 601 Cramer Mountain Rd. Cramerton

Gaston County Park at Pinewood Elementary 1925 N. Main Street Mount Holly River Street Park 330 N. River Street Mount Holly

Veterans Park 127 E. Glendale Avenue Mount Holly Catawba Heights Neighborhood Park 613 Summerrow Road Mount Holly Mountain Island Park at Mount Holly 613 Summerrow Road Mount Holly

Tuckaseege Park 165 Broome Street Mount Holly Woodlawn Park 521 Woodlawn Avenue Mount Holly

Harper Park Blacksnake Rd., Stanley R.M. Thompson Park College St., Stanley

TruliantFCU.org

Pharr Park Main St., McAdenville Central Park 127 E. Glendale Avenue Mount Holly Gaston County Park at East Gaston High School 1744 Lane Rd. Mount Holly

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STANLEY POPULATION: 3,556

Trains run through the middle of downtown

Tax Rate .54¢ per $100 valuation -----------------------------------------------------City Hall 114 S. Main Street, Stanley NC 28164 Office hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Friday ..................... 704-263-4779 www.townofstanley.org -----------------------------------------------------Town Manager: Heath Jenkins -----------------------------------------------------Mayor: Andrew Quinley -----------------------------------------------------Council Members Bud Pate (Ward 1) Cathy Kirkland (Ward 2) Jan Williams (Ward 3) Danny Sparrow (Ward 4) Kerry Hart ( Ward 5) Town Council meets the first Monday of each month at 6:00 pm at Town Hall -----------------------------------------------------Utilities Pay water and sewer bills at Town Hall, 114 S. Main Street during normal business hours .................... 704-263-4779 -----------------------------------------------------Trash & Recycables 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 Parks and Recreation ............ 704-263-4000 Population based on 2010 Census

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Simple living is the credo in Stanley, where N.C. Highway 275 and N.C. Highway 27 converge in the northeastern part of the county. In Stanley, there are churches to attend, a middle school soccer game to cheer on, and Harper Park for baseball, basketball, and the tiny tot splash pad among other outdoor amenities.

railroad played in the origination of the town. The museum highlights family life and work during the early years of this community. Visitors can spend hours browsing through the varied array of artifacts and exhibits dedicated to the preservation of a rich and colorful history.

This area got its start back in the civil war era when pioneers began settling in this area. It is one of the oldest towns in Gaston County and has remained one of the smallest throughout the years but offers a growing economy. This is a town that offers the small-town atmosphere with the big city amenities close by.

Stanley is the kind of place where if you can imagine it, the community will help you do it. The late Katherine & Ron Harper of Stanley had a vision to build a park where local kids could play. Harper Park is named after Mr. and Mrs. Harper because they made a sizable donation to start the construction of the park and the remaining money was raised through other community donations and fundraising efforts. The grand opening for the first public park in Stanley was held in May 2013.

There are plenty of reasons to love this small town - quaint historic downtown, well-regarded schools, and relatively affordable home prices. This close-knit community is a great place to raise a family. An attractive array of businesses are located in the town. Manufacturing is one of the top industries with several factories calling Stanley home. Other businesses include banks, fast food and sit-down restaurants, medical and dental offices, gift and specialty stores, and many other independent small businesses. Stanley boasts a wonderful local attraction at the Brevard Station Museum. The museum’s name is in honor of the importance that the

Stanley citizens define community by safe streets, knowing the people you meet by their first name, neighbors helping neighbors and joining neighbors during town celebrations. In October, Country Fest is a community celebration for the whole family and highlights the best of Stanley. Held annually along Main Street, this fun-filled event offers a variety of kid’s games, activities, food vendors, live music, arts, crafts, and the Little Miss Country Fest Pageant. Stanley is definitely a town with spirit. Come Join the Fun!

Brevard Museum

Country Fest

Photo by Jon Petersohn

GROWTH & PROGRESS

Baseball Means Serious Business for Stanley [ By Rebecca T. Dickinson ]

Parents sit on the edge of the bleachers waiting to see a homerun hit over the baseball field fence or someone catch a flyball in the outfield at Harper Park. It’s not just one game, but two games going on simultaneously during the AAA Dixie Youth Baseball’s State Tournament for 9 and 10 year-old boys and girls in July 2013. In October 2012, members of the North Carolina Dixie Youth Baseball Organization visited Harper Park and met with representatives of the Town and Heath Jenkins the Parks and RecStanley Town Manager reation Department even though the park was still under construction. “They had a meeting at the town hall, and we had a large number of people show up to support them hosting the tournament in Stanley,” said Town Manager Heath Jenkins. “Shortly thereafter, they announced they would host the tournament at Harper Park,” said Jenkins. Dixie Youth Baseball is an all volunteer organization that gives kids an opportunity to play baseball in 11 states. As is standard, Stanley was automatically included in the tournament because they were hosting the event. 16 teams com-

Statue in front of the Stanley Fire Department

900 rooms in nearby towns of Mount Holly, Belmont, and Gastonia. “There is a hospitality tax on each one of those rooms,” Jenkins said. “Every time somebody stays in a hotel room in Gaston County, they generate revenue from that tax just by having somebody stay in that room. Over 900 rooms is pretty significant for an event in Gaston County.”

peted in the week long sporting event, and Stanley’s team won the state tournament and went on to compete in the national championship “It was our inaugural year, and our first time hosting the event,” said Jenkins. The first year hosting the event allowed Stanley to show its southern hospitality, as well as provide a lot of economic opportunities for Gaston County. Of the 16 participating teams, 11 packed their bags and stayed in hotels. According to Jenkins, families and teams rented more than

The tournament also brought economic excitement on a local level. According to Jenkins, the economic benefits stemming from the tournament would not happen without the outstanding facilities at Harper Park or the great leadership of Parks & Recreation Director, Tug Deason. “I would put our program up against anyone in the county, if not the state. For a town our size and for the number of kids we have in the program is huge,” Jenkins said. “A lot of that has to do with the type of program that Deason runs.” continued on next page

www.montcrossareachamber.com

“The fields are in real nice shape with grass on the infields,” Jenkins said. “There is a very nice state-of-the-art press box where members of the Dixie Youth organization can sit at the top and oversee what is happening on both baseball fields because they have a lot of rules that must be complied with during the tournament.” Two Stanley team members

Stanley Mayor, Andrew Quinley said the Dixie Youth tournaments provide Stanley with new economic opportunities. Local retail and restaurants benefit from the large numbers of visitors coming into Stanley. They are “looking for a different place to eat other than the concession items, as well as shop at antiques stores, specialty stores and other local businesses,” Quinley said. Deason works with the Dixie Youth officials to put together an information packet for parents and the kids. The packet features information about where to eat, local events and places to visit within driving distance. places to visit. The Montcross Chamber Welcome Guide was a part of the package. The relatively new Harper Park encourages healthy recreation, and is the pride of Deason and the town of Stanley. Located on Blacksnake Road, this $1.4 million facility includes two baseball fields, basketball court, horseshoe area, playground, splash pad, hiking & bike trail, picnic area, and a restroom and concession building.

The basketball court is a great place to join a pick-up game

Dixie Youth doesn’t always have the tournament in the same town for consecutive years but they were very impressed with Stanley’s performance as host in 2013. So impressed that they awarded the 2014 tournament to Stanley again. “I’ll never forget last year, Channel 9 news was doing a cover story about the tournament,” Jenkins said. “While we were there talking with the news media, parents from outside Gaston County showed up early, and they were talking about what a beautiful and nice facility we had...They talked about how clean the park was. For a town our size, we have as nice of a park as you’ll see anywhere.” To prepare for the July 2014 tournament at Harper Park, Mayor Andrew Quinley said that the Town of Stanley will better prepare itself and local businesses for the influx of visitors to the community. “The town staff will address the tournament in detail to the local businesses to allow them to plan and prepare special things for this tournament,” Quinley said. “Items would include discount coupons for tournament teams and family, giveaways, etc.” This year’s tournament will also be held earlier in the month beginning on July 5, 2014. According to Jenkins, the town will put on a fireworks display again, and all events will coincide with the 4th of July holiday.

Stanley celebrates their victory

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Libraries

www.gastonlibrary.org

Main Library

Address

Town/State/Zip

Phone #

1555 East Garrison Blvd.

Gastonia, NC 28054

704-868-2164

Belmont Branch

111 Central Avenue

Belmont, NC 28012

704-825-5426

Lowell Branch

203 McAdenville Road

Lowell, NC 28098

704-824-1266

Mount Holly Branch

245 W. Catawba Avenue

Mount Holly, NC 28120

704-827-3581

Stanley Branch

205 N. Peterson Street

Stanley, NC 28164

704-263-4166

Address

Town/State/Zip

Phone #

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

McAdenville Post Office

111 Main Street

McAdenville, NC 28101

704-824-0915

Mount Holly Post Office

806 W. Central Avenue

Mount Holly, NC 28120

704-827-6415

Stanley Post Office

301 Old Mount Holly Road

Stanley, NC 28164

704-263-2058

Post Offices

Voted Best Special Occasion Restaurant

www.usps.com

Drivers License & Registration

www.ncdot.org/DMV

Address

Town/State/Zip

Phone #

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

Gastonia, NC 28054

704-864-4856

NC Motor Vehicle License Plate Agency 1471 E. Franklin Blvd.

Recycling Centers

www.gastongov.com/departments/solid-waste/recyclingcenters

Facility

Address

Town/State/Zip

Phone #

Crowders Creek

1120 CP Groves Road

Gastonia, NC 28052

704-866-4794

Hardin

3155 Philadelphia Church Road

Dallas, NC 28034

704-922-5343

New Hope

235 Lake Wylie Road

Belmont, NC 28012

704-825-1252

Riverbend

146 Mountain Island Road

Mt. Holly, NC 28120

704-827-5327

Tryon

2755 Tryon Courthouse Rd / Hwy 274 Bessemer City, NC 28016

704-629-4326

(704) 867.6777 WWW.NICKSTAPHOUSE.COM

ELECTIONS & VOTER REGISTRATION 410 West Franklin Boulevard Gastonia, NC 28052 704-852-6005 • Voters must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old (17 1/2 to register), mentally sound and not under conviction of a felony. As well as show proof of current residence and identification stating their full legal name to register. • Voters must register at least 25 days prior to the election.

AUTOMOBILE INFO DRIVER’S LICENSES • New residents have 60 days to apply for an NC driver's license. • Licenses in North Carolina are issued from 5-8 years depending on your age. If you are ages 18-65 it is 8 years and if you are 66 or older then it is 5 years. • If you are a new resident age 18 or older, applying for the first time for an NC drivers license you will need the following documents: - Proof of Residency - Proof of Age & Identity - Proof of Social Security Number - Proof of Liability Insurance • Applicants under 18 years old must present a certificate showing they have passed an approved driver education course before they can take the driver’s license test. They must also present a “Drivers Eligibility Certificate”, high school diploma or equivalent.

• You will be required to pass the following tests: Knowledge test, Vision test, traffic signs recognition test, driving skills test, if the examiner deems necessary. DMV directAccess (Information available 24/7) 919-7000 www.ncdot.org/dmv DRIVER’S LICENSE OFFICES Gastonia, DMV Building 2560 West Franklin Boulevard Gastonia, NC 28052 704-853-5372 www.ncdot.org/dmv Unit 2 Municipal Building 785 West Charlotte Avenue Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-827-9486

TAGS / REGISTRATION • Newcomers usually have 30 days, or when gainful employment is accepted (whichever occurs first), to register their vehicle. • To change an out-of-state title, an owner must show the title and registration card from their prior state of residence, as well as the liability insurance company name and policy number to certify coverage. VEHICLE & LICENSE PLATE RENEWAL OFFICE Akers Shopping Center 1471 East Franklin Boulevard Gastonia, 28054 704-864-4856

www.montcrossareachamber.com

HEALTHCARE With the establishment of an award-winning hospital, specialty clinics, private practices and well-equipped fitness centers, area residents have easy access to the medical resources needed in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle. With two major healthcare networks in the area - CaroMont Health and Carolinas HealthCare System, area families take comfort in knowing they have excellent medical services close by. CaroMont Health is a not-for-profit health system that provides inpatient and outpatient medical services within five counties and two states. CaroMont Health employs nearly 3,900 healthcare professionals with a medical staff membership of 455. CaroMont Health is comprised of five entities: CaroMont Regional Medical Center, CaroMont Medical Group, Gaston Hospice, Courtland Terrace and CaroMont Specialty Surgery. Established in 1946, CaroMont Regional Medical Center, formerly known as Gaston Memorial Hospital, is a 435-bed, not-for-profit hospital. An array of services are offered and are comparable to those offered by much larger hospitals in major cities. CaroMontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s healthcare facilities will soon be expanding with construction already beginning for the new MedPlex in Mount Holly. The 37,000-square-foot complex is scheduled to open in spring of 2015.

Charlotte-based Carolinas HealthCare System is one of the nation's leading and most innovative healthcare organizations. They have numerous facilities throughout Gaston County and a team of dedicated medical staff to treat everything from primary care, pediatrics, cardiology, rehabilitation and even urgent care. With five family practice offices located throughout the county, Carolinas HealthCare System offers a complete spectrum of outpatient medical care, from newborns to older citizens. Services include pediatric and adult care, sports medicine, treatment of minor injuries physical exams, in-office X-rays and labs. Carolinas Rehabilitation-Mount Holly is an exceptional medical facility 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. 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.

caromonthealth.org

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

HOLY ANGELS Located in Belmont, this private, non-profit corporation was founded in 1955 by the Sisters of Mercy. Residential services and innovative programs are provided for children and adults with varying degrees of intellectual developmental disabilities and delicate medical conditions. Programs and facilities have been developed as a direct response to the ever changing needs of Holy Angels residents, their families and the community. Programs include the Morrow Center, four Community Group Homes, five ICF/IDD group homes (Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Developmental Disabilities), Great Adventures (social club for residents and members of the community with intellectual developmental disabilities), Creative Arts & Horticulture Therapy, Lynn & Don Leonard Music Therapy and Camp Hope and Cherubs CafĂŠ & Cherubs Candy Bouquet in downtown Belmont.

SOCIAL 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 www.gastongov.com

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 Drive, Belmont, NC 28012 704-829-5260 www.sistersofmercy.org

HEALTH DEPARTMENT 991 W. Hudson Blvd., Gastonia, NC 28052 704-853-5000 www.gastonpublichealth.org Hours: Monday, 8:00 AM- 7:00 PM Tuesday - Friday, 8:00 AM- 5:00 PM

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

www.HolyAngelsNC.org

www.montcrossareachamber.com

Schools Located In Eastern Gaston County Address Gaston County Schools Admin Offices 943 Osceola Street Gastonia, NC

Phone # 704-866-6100

Grades

Elementary Schools Belmont Central Catawba Heights J.B. Page Primary Kiser Lowell McAdenville New Hope North Belmont Pinewood Ida Rankin Springfield

310 Eagle Road Belmont, NC 28012 101 Ivey Street Belmont, NC 28012 215 Ewing Drive Belmont, NC 28012 311 East College Street Stanley, NC 28164 1500 Power Drive Lowell, NC 28098 275 E. Weslyan Drive McAdenville, NC 28101 137 Stowe Road Gastonia, NC 28056 210 School Street Belmont, NC 28012 1925 N Main Street Mount Holly, NC 28120 301 W. Central Avenue Mount Holly, NC 28120 900 South Main Street Stanley, NC 28164

704-825-8479 704-827-3221 704-825-2614 704-263-4121 704-824-2264 704-824-2236 704-824-1617 704-827-4043 704-827-2236 704-827-7266 704-263-4091

2-5 K-5 K-1 3-5 K-5 K-5 K-5 K-5 K-5 K-5 K-2

Middle Schools Belmont Middle Cramerton Middle Holbrook Middle Mount Holly Middle Stanley Middle

110 601 418 124 317

704-825-9619 704-824-2907 704-824-2381 704-827-4811 704-263-2941

6-8 6-8 6-8 6-8 6-8

1744 Lane Road Mount Holly, NC 28120 906 South Point Road Belmont, NC 28012

704-827-7251 704-825-3351

9-12 9-12

100 Lakewood Road Belmont, NC 28012

704-824-7601

9-12

100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Road Belmont, NC 28012 7220 W Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012

704-825-6700 or 1-888-222-0110 704-825-3737

High Schools East Gaston High South Point High Stuart W. Cramer High

Central Avenue Belmont, NC 28012 Cramer Mountain Rd. Cramerton, NC 28032 S. Church Street Lowell, NC 28098 S. Hawthorne Street Mount Holly, NC 28120 Hovis Road Stanley, NC 28164

Website www.gaston.k12.nc.us

Colleges Belmont Abbey College Gaston College Kimbrell Campus

www.belmontabbeycollege.edu www.gaston.edu

www.gaston.edu 40

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

FIRE DEPARTMENTS Belmont Fire 301 Keener Boulevard Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-0502

McAdenville Volunteer Fire 144 Wesleyan Drive McAdenville NC 28101 704-824-3922

Community Volunteer Fire 1873 Perfection Avenue Belmont, NC 28012 704-827-8249

Mount Holly Fire & Rescue 6433 Killian Avenue Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-822-2927

Cramerton Volunteer Fire 140 Eighth Avenue Cramerton, NC 28032 704-824-3915

New Hope Volunteer Fire 4804 S. New Hope Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-825-7019

East Gaston Volunteer Fire 108 Arrowchem Way Mt. Holly, NC 28120 704-827-8861

South Point Volunteer Fire 2300 South Point Road Belmont, NC 28012 704-835-3166

Lowell Volunteer Fire 202 Groves Street Lowell, NC 28098 704-824-3357

Stanley Fire & Rescue 224 S. Main Street Stanley, NC 28164 704-263-4777

Lucia Riverbend Volunteer 14124 Lucia Rivervend Hwy. Mt. Holly, NC 28120 704-827-5206

POLICE STATIONS

603 Groves Street • Lowell, NC 28098 Phone: 704-478-1073 • Fax: 704-823-1662 • www.choiceusavending.com

Belmont Police 201 Chronicle Street Belmont, NC 28012 Non-Emergency: 704-825-3792 Cramerton Police 155 N. Main Street Cramerton, NC 28032 Non-Emergency: 704-824-8943 Lowell Police 101 W. 1st Street Lowell, NC 28098 Non-Emergency: 704-824-8540 Mount Holly Police 125 East Charlotte Avenue Mount Holly, NC 28120 Non-Emergency: 704-827-4343 Stanley Police P.O. Box 279 Stanley, NC 28164 Non-Emergency: 704-263-4778 Gaston County Police Department 420 West Franklin Boulevard Gastonia, NC 28053 Non-Emergency: 704-866-3300 www.gastongov.com/departments/police Gaston County Sherriff’s Office 425 North Marietta Street Gastonia NC, 28053 Non-Emergency: 704-869-6800 www.gastongov.com/departments/sheriff

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MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY 32 North Main Belmont, LLC David Dorsch PO Box 24222 Charlotte, NC 28224 704.333.4441 Real Estate Property Management

Allison Love's Fine Jewelry Allison Love 123 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1115 Jewelers

321 Equipment Co. Bryan Dalton 1901 Jenkins Dairy Rd. Gastonia, NC 28053 704.867.2317 Storage Container Sales - Rentals

Alternative Beverage Jess Faucette 1500 River Dr. Ste 104 Belmont, NC 28012 704.527.2337 www.ebrew.com Beer Homebrewing Equip and Supplies

Aaron's Inc. Michael Fure 625 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.8023 Retail

Andrew Johnson Pediatric Dentistry Heidi Johnson 420 Park St., Ste 101 Belmont, NC 28012 704.749.5720 www.AndrewJohnsonDDS.com Dentists

Absolute Turf Management, LLC Roger Edwards 204 Amity Circle Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.3774 Landscaping ActionCOACH Tony Marder 2170 Wynbourne Dr. Gastonia, NC 28056 704.867.5235 www.actioncoach.com/tonymarder Business Coach AcuteCare Solutions Alan E. Nash 1028 Ramsgate Dr. Gastonia, NC 28056 704.853.8458 Medical-Wound Management ADT Security Paul Phillips 2530 Whitehall Park Dr., Ste 500 Charlotte, NC 28273 704.244.1817 Security Control Equipment Systems and Monitoring Adult Primary & Preventative Medicine Gina Johnson 1040 X-Ray Dr., Ste B Gastonia, N 28054 704.884.0064 www.caromont.org Physicians and SurgeonsInternal Medicine Advanced Copier Technologies, Inc. Jerry Simpson, Sr. 713 E. Second Ave. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.868.3022 Copier - Sales - Service - Repair Advanced Disposal Service Hardee Horne 1100 W. Craighead Rd Charlotte, NC 28206 704.596.9428 www.advanceddisposal.com Garbage Collection Advanced TV Service Jay Bingham 2818 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 28056 704.349.8865 Television Repair and Service Aldrich CFO Services, Inc. Robert Aldrich PO Box 992 Belmont, NC 28012 704.860.1175 Financial Services Allen Tate Realtors-Jan DePriest Jan DePriest 605 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.868.4188 Real Estate Alliance Bank & Trust Don Harrison 292 W. Main Ave. Gastonia, NC 28052 704.867.5828 Banks - Savings and Loan

Ann W. Payseur, PLLC Ann W. Payseur 100 N. Main St/PO Box 221 Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8362 Attorneys Anna P's Consignments Anna Puckett 123 N. Main St. Lowell, NC 28098 704.824.5403 Consignment Store Art by J Jeaniene Dibble 6 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.718.4330 Art Instruction Ashley Women's Center - Belmont Linda R. Bibiloni 1212 Spruce St. Ste. 307 Belmont, N 28012 704.865.7416 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Gynecology and Obstetrics Ashley Women's Center-Gastonia Linda Bibiloni 1225 E. Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.865.7416 Physicians and Surgeons - Gynecology and Obstetrics Atkinson, Richard & Sybil Richard and Sybil Atkinson 501 Stuart Ridge Cramerton, NC 28032 Individual Audio To Go Drew Parham 3950-B Campus Ridge Rd. Matthews, NC 28150 704.537.9300 Mobile DJ Entertainment

Banner News Wendy Isbell 128-C N. Main St. Belmont, N 28012 704.825.0580 Newspapers BB&T Home Mortgage Josh Stoner 601 Hawley Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.6438 Mortgages BB&T-Belmont Gina Falco 601 Hawley Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.6440 Banks - Savings and Loan BB&T-Mt. Holly Mark Rouse 150 S. Main St. Mt. Holly, N 28120 704.827.6726 Banks - Savings and Loan BB&T-Stanley Ben Edwards 101 N. Main St. Stanley, NC 28164 704.263.3485 Banks - Savings and Loan Beasley, BF & Eleanor Eleanor Beasley PO Box 3894 Gastonia, NC 28056 704.616.3330 / 704.868.8159 Individual Bedgood Outdoor Advertising Ken Parrott 509 Bentley Ct Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.8579 www.bedgoodoutdoor.com Outdoor Advertising Bell, Locke Locke Bell 325 N. Marietta St., Ste 2003 Gastonia, NC 28053 704.852.3139 Individual Belmont Abbey College Chris Peeler-Goff 100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.6700 Schools - College and University Belmont Capital Advisors, Inc. JoePat Roop 217 Glenway Dr. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1560 www.belmont-capital.com Investment Advisory Service Belmont Chiropractic Center David Demperio, DC and Avanda Demperio, DC 5803 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9799 www.belmontchiropracticcenters.com Chiropractors

Auten-Stowe American Legion Post 144 Larry Robinette 202 Park Dr./PO Box 932 Belmont, N 28012 704.825.9022 Non-Profit Organizations

Belmont Community Gardens Jonathan Taylor 25 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.400.7061 Non Profit Organizations

AVH Carolinas, LLC Michelle Plesz 10130 Perimeter Pkwy #200 Charlotte, NC 28216 704.602.5144 Home Builders

Belmont Community Organization - BCO Paula Wilkerson 91 E. Catawba St./ PO Box 1248 Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4526 Non Profit Organizations

Bai Shen Acupuncture Shari Miller 684 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1584 Acupuncturist Bank of the Ozarks Amy Brown 5800 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1555 www.bankozarks.com Banks - Savings and Loan

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Belmont Federal Savings & Loan Michael Anthony 210 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9861 www.belmontfederal.com Banks - Savings and Loan Belmont Flooring Center Jody Flowers 21 E. Woodrow Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9985 Flooring Sales - Installation Refinishing Belmont Historical Society Roger Helton 40 Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4848 Non-Profit Organizations Belmont Massage & Spa Meg Dayton-Drury 34 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.489.2229 Massage Therapist Belmont Merchants Association Vincent Hill PO Box 907 Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5987 Associations

BlueDot Medical Jimmy Clonaris 10345 Nations Ford Rd., Ste A Charlotte, N 28273 704.344.0700 Medical Equipment Blythe Gallery Nan Bridgeman 117 N. Main St. Belmont, N 28012 704.825.8809 Retail - Antiques and Collectibles Boyce, Richard Richard Boyce 112 Dorie Dr Belmont, NC 28012 980.636.1669 Individual Brevard Station Museum Joyce Handsel & Ruth Wood 112 S. Main St. Stanley, N 28164 704.263.9801 Museum Bricks 4 Kidz Colleen Kirk 9255 Egret Ridge Belmont, NC 28012 704.574.9140 Educational Resources

Belmont Removals Jimmie West 408 Park Dr. Belmont, NC 28012 704.891.8555 Garbage Collection

Budget Blinds Bill Noblitt 1 E. Woodrow Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.864.8778 www.budgetblinds.com/gastonia Window Coverings

Belmont Reserve Peggy Good 600 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.399.7555 www.belmontreserve.com Real Estate - Residential Developers

Burnside Pest Control Bryan Fincher 714 E. Chestnut St. Stanley, NC 28164 704.263.0046 / 704.718.0224 Pest Control Services

Belmont River Side Complex Ralph Dickson 1820 Spencer Mtn. Rd. Ranlo, NC 28053 704.868.6893 Warehouse

Butler & Stowe, CPA's Robert Adams 100 N. Main St. Ste 125 Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8538 www.butlerstowe.com Accountants - Certified Public

Belmont Rotary Ann W. Payseur PO Box 1601 Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8362 Civic Group Belmont, City of Barry Webb 115 N. Main St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5586 www.cityofbelmont.org Government Benefit Partners, Inc. Charles Lineberger 1536-B Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.867.3628 www.benefitpartnersonline.com Financial Planners - Investments Securities Bisque Imports DJ Toal 1 Belmont Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.9290 www.bisqueimports.com Importers Bit of Hope Ranch Meg Vanderbilt 5001 CR Wood Rd. Gastonia, NC 28056 704.862.0095 Equine Therapy Center

Belmont Counseling Center Janet Jones 98 Glenway St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1656 Counseling Services

Blair,Trip Trip Blair 85 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.827.6295 Individual

Belmont Dairy Queen Ronald Walters 7015 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5106 Restaurants

Blowe Family Dentistry Dr. Abby C. Blowe, DDS 549 Highland St. Mt. Holly, NC 28120 704.822.0007 Dentists

Caggiano, Christopher Christopher Caggiano 1152 Drummond Lane Matthews, NC 28104 704.351.7311 Individual Calloway Home and Interiors Julie Roper PO Box 131 Belmont, NC 28012 704.718.5589 Interior Decorator - Designer Cancer Services of Gaston County Kim Elmore 306 S. Columbia St. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.864.1271 Non Profit Organizations Captains Cap Johnny Mageras 670 Park St., Hwy 273 Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4103 Restaurants Caravan Coffee & Dessert Bar Vincent Hill 7 S. Main St Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.7711 Coffee Houses Carey Roberts Design Co. LLC Carey Roberts PO Box 663 Belmont, NC 28012 704.718.6987 Florist Carillon Assisted Living Rick Moore 500 Cramer Mtn. Rd Cramerton, NC 28032 704.823.0500 www.carillonassistedliving.com Assisted Living

Carolina Clinic for Digestive & Liver Diseases Lisa James 2544 Court Dr., Ste H Gastonia, NC 28054 704.854.9990 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons Gasttroentology Carolina IT Professionals, Inc. Phyllis McConnell 243 W. Catawba Ave. Mt. Holly, NC 28120 704.827.8102 www.citpinc.com Computer Consultant - Computer Sales - Service - Repair Carolina Women Today Magazine Charles Walton 6428 W. Wilkinson Blvd, Ste 119 Belmont, NC 28012 704.451.7209 Magzines Carolinas HealthCare System Betsy Hayden PO Box 32861 Charlotte, NC 28232 704.631.1200 www.carolinashealthcare.org Healthcare Carolinas HealthCare SystemRiverbend Family Practice 215 S. Main St. Mt. Holly, NC 28120 704.587.2400 Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice Carolinas Healthcare Urgent CareBelmont Alesha V. Eaves 420 Park St. Ste 105 Belmont, NC 28012 704.631.1820 Urgent Care Clinic Carolinas Plastic Surgery Center Dan McMahan 2391 Court Dr., Ste 120 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.874.0095 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists CaroMont Breast Surgical Specialists Allen Marsh 660 Summit Crossing, Ste 203 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.671.7141 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists CaroMont Critical Care Specialists Craig Greer 2525 Court Dr./ PO Box 1747 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.834.4390 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists CaroMont Dermatology Dan McMahan 2391 Court Dr. Ste 120 Gastonia, N 28054 704.874.0768 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists CaroMont Family Medicine Casey Auton 3845 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 28056 704.824.9119 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons -Family Practice CaroMont Family Medicine Shelby Martha Pressley 520 N. Dekalb St. Shelby, NC 28150 704.484.8001 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice CaroMont Family MedicineBelmont Carrie Block 209 Park St. Ste 100 Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4750 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons Family Practice

CaroMont Family MedicineCherryville Sheldon Lutz 120 S. Mountain St. Cherryville, NC 28021 704.445.0422 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice CaroMont Family MedicineGaston Day Teresa Whitlock 1895 Hoffman Rd., Ste A Gastonia, N 28056 704.671.5875 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice CaroMont Family MedicineGastonia Gina Johnson 2711 X-Ray Dr. Gastonia, N 28054 704.834.2420 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice CaroMont Family MedicineKings Mtn. Carol Turner 214 N. Cleveland Ave. Kings Mtn., NC 28086 704.730.1228 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice CaroMont Family MedicineLake Wylie Luann Tojdowski 1200 Village Harbor Dr. Lake Wyli, S 29710 803.631.2858 / 704.671.7441 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice CaroMont Family MedicineMcAdenville Patrick Harder 105 Elm St McAdenville, NC 28101 704.824.5323 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice CaroMont Family MedicineMountain Island Casey Auton 3605 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Rd, Ste A Charlotte, NC 28216 704.971.0044 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice CaroMont Family Medicine-Stanley Cindy Johnson 700 N. Main St. Stanley, NC 28164 704.263.8945 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice CaroMont Family MedicineSteele Creek Luann Tojdowski 14035 Grandiflora Dr., Ste B Charlotte, NC28278 704.583.1155 Physicians and Surgeons - Family Practice

CaroMont Heart Larry Moore 255 Court Dr., Ste 300 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.868.3256 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

CaroMont Rheumatology-Belmont Amanda Blake 1212 Spruce St., Ste 311 Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5228 Physicians and Surgeons Rheumatology

Center Street Tavern & Restaurant Kathleen Hover 115 Center St. Cramerton, NC 28032 704.309.7272 www.centerstreettavern.com Restaurants

Coldwell Banker MECA Realty Matthew Hanks 341 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.860.8480 www.cbmecarealty.com Real Estate-Residential

CaroMont Heart-Belmont 1212 Spruce St., Ste 205 Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.9375 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons-Cardiovascular

CaroMont Surgical Associates Sandra Norville 2555 Court Dr., Ste 450 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.671.7652 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

Centra Properties - Commercial, LLC Jerry Roche PO Box 323 Cramerton, NC 28032 704.616.3384 Real Estate - Commercial

Coldwell Banker MECA RealtyBelmont Allison Cottingham 341 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.576.0152 www.BelmontNCRealty.com Real Estate

CaroMont Heart-Lincolnton 1446 E. Gaston St. Ste 103 Lincolnton, NC 28092 704.732.8342 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons-Cardiovascular CaroMont Heart-Shelby 520 N. Dekalb St. Shelby, NC 28150 704.867.2141 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons-Cardiovascular CaroMont Hospitalists Cheryl Yeager 2525 Court Dr. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.834.4390 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists CaroMont Inpatient Physicians (Hospitalist Program) Craig Greer 2525 Court Dr. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.834.2000 Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

CaroMont Surgical Associates Cheryl Daniel 2544 Court Dr., Ste G Gastonia, NC 28054 704.864.7821 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists CaroMont Urgent CareGaston Day Teresa Whitlock 1895 Hoffman Rd Ste B Gastonia, NC 28056 704.861.8669 www.caromont.org Urgent Care Clinic CaroMont Urgent CareMountain Island Casey Auton 3605 Mt. Holly-Huntersville Rd. Ste B Charlotte, NC 28216 704.971.2349 www.caromont.org Urgent Care Clinic

CaroMont Internal Medicine Gail Heffner 1867 Remount Rd. Ste D Gastonia, NC 28054 704.854.8799 Physicians and Surgeons-Internal Medicine

CaroMont Urgent CareSteele Creek LuAnn Tojdowski 14035 Grandiflora Dr. Ste A Charlotte, NC 28278 704.295.9044 www.caromont.org Urgent Care Clinic

CaroMont Neurosurgery Jaime Smith 2555 Court Dr., Ste 460 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.852.3888 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

CaroMont Wound Center Janice Thomas 660 Summit Crossing Place Ste 306 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.671.7830 Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

CaroMont Pathology David Mills 2525 Court Dr. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.834.2851

Carothers Funeral Home Bill Rhinehart 312 W. Second Ave. Gastonia, NC 28052 704.867.6377 Funeral Directors

CaroMont Pediatric Partners-Belmont Cindy Long 209 Park St, Ste 500 Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.0025 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Pediatrics CaroMont Pediatric PartnersGastonia Tiffany Roper 705 Summit Crossing Place, Ste 150 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.671.6300 Physicians and Surgeons - Pediatrics CaroMont Perinatal Kay McClure 2555 Court Dr., Ste 350 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.671.6912 Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

CaroMont Health Foundation Debbie Windley 2525 Court Dr. Gastonia, NC 28053-1747 704.834.2088 www.caromont.org Foundation

CaroMont Psychiatric Associates Casey Cron 1867 Remount Rd. Ste H Gastonia, NC 28054 704.865.3848 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Psychiatry

CaroMont Health, Inc. Douglas R. Luckett 2525 Court Dr. Gastonia, NC 28053-1747 704.834.2000 www.caromont.org Healthcare - Hospital

CaroMont Rehab & Pain Craig Greer 640 Summit Crossing Place, Ste 200 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.671.5400 www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

CaroMont Heart Doug Baker 2555 Court Dr., Ste 200 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.83.HEART www.caromont.org Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

CaroMont Rheumatology Amanda Blake 635 Cox Rd. Ste E Gastonia, NC 28054 704.671.6438 Physicians and Surgeons Rheumatology

Carus Corporation Mack Cochran 181 Woodlawn Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.951.3128 www.caruscorporation.com Manufacturing Catawba Ave BBQ & Grill Kathleen Hover 403 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4472 Restaurants Catawba River Antique Mall CJ Austin 406 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.2383 www.catawbariverantiquemall.com Retail - Antiques and Collectibles Catawba River Artisans Tom Pacheco 406 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.214.3724 Non Profit Organizations Catfish Cove Restaurant Kent Stowe 1401 Upper Armstrong Ford Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.3332 Restaurants Catherine's House Inc. Stan Patterson PO Box 1633 Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9599 Non-Profit Organizations

Charlotte Awnings Unlimited John Mullis 108 W. First St. Lowell, NC 28098 704.824.1144 Awnings & Canopys Charzewski, David & Clare David and Clare Charzewski 140 Hidden Pastures Dr Cramerton, NC 28032 704.824.7198 Individual Chic Boutique, Inc. Heather Pierce 128 E. Central Ave. Mt. Holly, NC 28120 704.820.8635 Consignment Store Retail-Women's Clothing Chick-fil-A of Belmont Natasha Gilbert 801 Park St. Belmont. NC 28012 704.825.8600 www.chick-fil-a.com/belmont Restaurants Choice USA Full Line Vending Chris Harrison 603 Groves St. Lowell, NC 28098 704.913.5083 Vending Services Christmastown Dentistry Travis Nixon, DDS 309 Wesleyan Dr. McAdenville, NC 28101 704.824.4311 www.christmastowndentistry.com Dentists Christopher's 125 North Main Street Chris Earle 125 N. Main St. Lowell, NC 28098 704.879.4073 www.125nmain.com Restaurants Clearbrook Advisory Services LLC Jim Crisp 100 N. Main St., Ste 200 Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.4510 www.clearbrookadvisory.com Financial Planning and Investment Management Cline Landscape Design & Consulting Kevin Cline PO Box 934 Belmont, NC 28012 704.747.2323 Landscaping CLT Express Chauffeured Transportation Laura Canady 7319 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.0666 www.cltexpress.com Limousine Service CNANOW.org LLC Ronnie Thompson 2833 Valleywood Dr. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.864.2303 www.cnanow.org CNA Training Coldwell Banker Commercial MECA Eric Clay 339 E. Catawba St. Belmont, N 28012 704.266.5040 / 704.806.9977 www.cbc.meca.com Real Estate - Commercial Real Estate Property Management

Coldwell Banker MECA RealtyBelmont Freda Hall 341 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.473.1182 www.BelmontNCRealty.com Real Estate Coldwell Banker MECA RealtyGastonia Irl Dixon 365 N. New Hope Rd. Ste 6 Gastonia, N 28054 704.867.2376 Real Estate College Park Pharmacy Bill Thrower, Jr. 682 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5179 Pharmacy Community Blood Center of the Carolinas Martin Grable 4447 South Blvd Charlotte, N 28209 704.972.4700 Non-Profit Organizations CommunityOne Bank-Belmont Mitchell Johnson 6440 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4250 Banks - Savings and Loan CommunityOne Bank-Mt. Holly Geanina Neal 701 S. Main St. Mount Holly, Holly, NC 28120 704.827.5140 Banks - Savings and Loan CommunityOne Bank-Stanley Vicky Burns 206 S. Hwy 27 Stanle, NC 28164 704.263.0333 Banks - Savings and Loan Complete Eye Care Dr. Barbara Marcussen and Dr. Harald Vaher 1200 Spruce St. Belmont, N 28012 704.825.9002 www.completeeyecare.net Optometrists Comporium Telecom Jeff Brown 2215 Ayrsley Town Blvd Ste I Charlotte, NC 28273 704.499.9930 Telephone Company Cottage Keepers, LLC Timothy Roberts 34 E. Woodrow Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.0367 www.cottagekeepersonline.com Real Estate - Property Management and Rentals

Creative Solutions Special Events Shannon Thomas PO Box 1236 Belmont, N 28012 704.825.8701 Wedding and Party Rentals Creative Travel, Inc. Rebecca Johns 34 W. Myrtle St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1865 Travel Agencies Crescent Metal Structures, Inc. Eric L. Riley 914 E. Moose St., Ste E Gastonia, NC 28056 704.824.2009 Contractors - General CRO-Community Relief Organization Alice Bayne 131 S. Main St. Mount Holly, Holly NC 28120 704.827.0450 Non Profit Organizations Current, Dr. William William Current 224 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.864.0337 Individual DAC Embroidery Casey Howell 126 S. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.820.6497 Embroidery Dallas Internal Medicine Tina Cansler 701 W. Trade St Dallas, NC 28034 704.922.3106 Physicians and SurgeonsInternal Medicine Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden Kara Newport 6500 S. New Hope Rd Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4490 Botanical Gardens David Weekley Homes Christine Manning 11430 N. Community House Rd Ste 275 Charlotte, N 28277 704.972.4206 www.davidweekleyhomes.com Real Estate - Residential Developers Denise Price Thomas Denise P. Thomas Belmont, NC 28012 704.747.8699 www.denisepricethomas.com Motivational - Inspirational Speaker and Customer Service Trainer Di Gregorio, Gus A. Gus A. Di Gregorio 514 E. Catawba St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.2372 Individual Discover Local Life Tara Morley 1319 Park Lane Gastonia, NC 28052 704.582.3753 www.discoverlocallife.com Welcome Services Discover YOU! Paul Herbert 420 E. Central Ave Mount Holly, NC 28120 704-671-9965 Health & Wellness Center

Cottage Keepers / Katie Goforth Katie Goforth 34 E. Woodrow Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.0367 Real Estate - Property Management and Rentals

Document Printing J.C. Lewis 104 S. Main St Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.8877 Printers

Cramerton, Town of Michael Peoples 155 N. Main St. Cramerton, N 28032 704.824.4337 Government

Donovan Byers HVAC Services Donovan Byers 104 Lantana Dr. Mount Holly NC 28120 704.953.8603 / 704.822.3557 Heating and Air Condition - Sales Services - Repair

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MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY Dove Chocolate Discoveries Ellen Burns 205 Davis Lane Belmont, NC 28012 704.737.1963 www.mydcdsite.com/ellenburns Fundraising / Retail

Finial Homes Brandy & Andy Mercer PO Box 550754 Gastonia, N 28055 704.718.9858 www.finialhomesinc.com Contractors - Construction

Gaston Hospice Richard Lahm 258 E. Garrison Blvd. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.861.8405 www.gastonhospice.org Home Health Services

Duke Energy Brad Burns 253 Plant Allen Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.2426 Public Utilities

Firestone Complete Auto Care Jimmy Holloman 6650 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.0133 Automotive - Service and Repair

Gaston Neurological Mark Rudisill 815 Cox Rd Gastonia, N 28054 704.865.1700 Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

Foresite Development Inc. Tom McKittrick 5320 Old Pineville Rd. Charlotte, NC 28217 704.364.9100 / 704.717.5520 www.forsiteinc.com Real Estate Developer - Commercial

Gaston Women's Healthcare Debbie Dennison 2680 Aberdeen Blvd Gastonia, NC 28054 704.865.2229 Physicians and Surgeons - Gynecology and Obstetrics

Forrester, Mary Frances Mary Frances Forrester 105 Country Woods Lane Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.263.8603 Individual

Gastonia Grizzlies Jesse Cole 1001 N. Marietta St. Gastonia, NC 28053 704.866.8622 Sports Team

Friendly's of Stanley Mike Sahms 119 N. Main St Stanley, N 28164 704.263.7088 Restaurants

Gastonia Surgical Associates Allen Marsh 2544 Court Dr. Ste G Gastonia, N 28054 704.864.7821 Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

Fullerworks Embroidery & More Laura Fuller Belmont, NC 28012 704.678.4369 www.fullerworks.blogspot.com Embroidery

Georgio's Restaurant Angelo Koutsoupias 202 Market St. Ste G Cramerton, N 28032 704.824.2220 Restaurants

Gaston Arts Council Kim George PO Box 242 Gastonia, NC 28053 704.853.2787 Non Profit Organizations

Gerald Griffin Heating & Cooling Services, LLC Gerald Griffin 306 Smith Rd. Mt. Holly, NC 28120 704.913.5243 Heating and Air Condition - Sales Services - Repair

Eagle Eye Home Inspections, Inc. Rick Goins 414 Sebring Ct Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.2048 www.eagleeyeinspections.net Home Inspection Services Eagle Park Home Community Chris Boone 2820 Selwyn Ave. Ste 350 Charlotte, NC 28209 704.371.4110 www.eaglepark.com Real Estate - Residential Developers East Belmont Baptist Church Margo Lang 501 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5780 Churches Easy Street Realty Richard Fox 732 Hanna Woods Dr. Cramerton, NC 28032 704.661.0044 Real Estate Eden Investment Group, LLC Preston Wilson 339 Catawba St. Belmont, N 28012 704.825.9970 Real Estate - Commercial Edward Jones Don Hartsoe 27 Catawba St Belmont, N 28012 704.825.7006 www.edwardjones.com Financial Planners - Investments Securities Elite Spine Center Robert Floyd 1212 Spruce St. Ste 211 Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.1002 Chiropractors Empire Ceilings & Floors, Inc. Greg Bryant 1108-F Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.868.6705 Acoustical Ceilings and Flooring Sales Installation - Refinishing Endocrinology Associates Michelle Brown 2544 Court Dr.Ste A Gastonia, N 28054 704.671.6400 Diabetes & Metabolism Physicians and Surgeons Endocrinology Fairway Outdoor Advertising Suzanne Davis 543 Cox Rd. Ste D-2 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.918.3415 Outdoor Advertising Family Med Pharmacy of Stanley H. Carter Cobb 110 E. Dallas Rd. Stanley, NC 28164 704.263.0810 Pharmacy Filta Environmental Kitchen Solutions Kenneth Harlow, Jr. PO Box 356 Lowell, NC 28098-0356 704.898.5270 Restaurant Equip Repair and Service Janitorial Service

Gaston Christian School Dr. Marc Stout 1625 Lowell-Bethesda Rd. Gastonia, NC 28056 704.349.5020 www.gastonchristian.org Schools - Private Gaston College-Kimbrell Campus and Textile Technology Center Dr. Joe Keith 7230 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, N 28012 704.825.3737 Schools - College and University Gaston County Jaycees Keith Bullard, Jr. PO Box 4 Gastonia, N 28053 910.616.2005 www.gastoncojaycees.org Civic Group Gaston County Schools Jeff Booker 943 Osceola St Gastonia, NC 28053 704.866.6209 www.gaston.k12.nc.us Schools - Public Gaston County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Alan Cloninger 425 N. Marietta St. Gastonia, NC 28052 704.869.6800 Government Gaston County Workforce Development Pat Bailey 330 N. Marietta St. Gastonia, N 28052 704.862.7867 www.gastonworks.com Employment Training and Services Gaston Day School Martha Jayne Rhyne 2001 Gaston Day School Rd Gastonia, NC 28056 704.864.7744 ext. 174 Schools - Private Gaston Gazette Lucy Talley 1893 Remount Rd. Gastonia, NC 28053 704.869.1700 Newspapers

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

GiGi Boutique Fine Consignment Grace Hohman 24 North Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8053 Consignment Store Glenway Premium Pub Louie Politis 55 Glenway St Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.7717 Restaurants Global Benefits Group James Pinto 100 N. Main St. Belmont, N 28012 949.421.3378 International Benefits Global Recruiting Network Harvey Eden 140-C Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.601.7798 / 704.813.1017 Employment Recruiters-Permanent GoodWork Staffing @ Division of Goodwill Industries Phillip Boger 412 S. Broad St Gastonia, NC 28054 (o) 704.916.1610 (c) 980.230.5998 Employment Contractors Temporary Help Graphic Hound Studio, Inc. David Pierce 128 E. Central Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.820.8429 Graphic Design/Prom/Screen Printing/ Signs Green Meadows Golf Course Benny Bowles 957 Kelly Rd Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.9264 Golf Course Gregory Chiropractic Center Matthew Gregory 611 N. Central Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.9200 www.gregorychiorctr.com Chiropractors

Griffin Tire & Auto Brad Griffin 6030 W. Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, N 28012 704.825.3465 Automobile - Repair and Tire Service Griffin Waste Services of Charlotte Steed Storey 7202 Wilkinson Blvd. Ste #6 Belmont, N 28012 704.825.7878 Dumpster Rental H&M Catering Megan Kanal PO Box 857 Belmont, N 28012 704.820.8611 www.h-mcatering.com Caterers Habitat for Humanity of Gaston County Mary Harris 1840 E. Franklin Blvd Gastonia, NC 28053 704.864.6536 www.habitatgaston.org Non-Profit Organizations Hall, Ted Ted Hall PO Box 368 Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5307 Individual Hampton Inn Belmont @ Montcross Carolyn Barnes 820 Ceilia Alexander Rd Belmon, N 28012 704.825.6100 Accommodations - Hotels, Motels and Bed and Breakfast Handy Lube, Inc. Gerald Handy 6637 W. Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.5823 Automobile Repair and Service Handy Pantry #164 Melinda Roberts 505 S. Central Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9576 Convenience Store Hannon Orthodontics Leeanna London 301 Park St. Belmont, N 28012 704.825.0002 www.hannonorthodontics.com Orthodontists Happy Dog Cafe & Boutique Teresa McCarter 26 N. Main St. Ste 1 Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5987 Retail Harbortowne Marina John Maxwell 220 Commodore Ct. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5050 www.harbortownemarina.com Marinas Heartland Payment Systems Lou Anne Stovall 2503 Union Rd Gastonia, NC 28054 704.214.6777 Merchant Services Hedrick, Beth Beth Hedrick Belmont, N 28012 813.601.1065 Individual Hillbilly's Barbeque & Steaks Jeff Duncan 720 McAdenville Rd. Lowell, NC 28098 704.824.8838 Restaurants Holy Angels, Inc. Regina Moody 6600 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4161 Non-Profit Organizations

Home Builders Association of Gaston County 1418 S. York Rd. Gastonia, NC 28052 704.867.0601 www.gastonhomebuilders.org Associations Home Buyers LLC.com Don Jackson 1421-A E. Franklin Blvd #244 Gastonia, NC` 28054 704.854.9966 www.homebuyersllc.com Real Estate Consultants Home Harvest Danielle Thuot 905 N. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, N 28056 980.989.0435 Non-Profit Organizations Home Instead Senior Care Roy Goforth 3518 Old Redbud Dr. Gastonia, NC 28056 704.864.5500 Senior Citizens Services - Home Health Services Homes by John Bailey & Assoc, Inc. John Bailey 1196 Noles Dr. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.931.4091 Contractors - General Horace Mann Bob Furlong 110 Kenwood St. Belmont, N 28012 704.678.3052 Financial Planner - Investments Horsley, Andrew & Beth Jenkins Horsley Andrew B. Horsley and Beth Jenkins Horsley 18 Circle Dr Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5560 Individual Humphrey Construction Butch Humphrey 311 W. Trade St. Dallas, N 28034 704.922.8631 www.humphreyconstruction.net Home Builders I Do Faces - Make Up Enhancements by Marcia Marcia Angellette 611 N. Central Ave Belmont, NC 28012 704.451.0823 Cosmetics

Integrity Structure of the Carolinas, Inc. Mel Morgan 25 E. Woodrow Ave Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9970 www.buildingthecarolinas.com Contractors - Construction Contractors - General Interiors by Mimi, Inc. Mimi Guin 118 Forest Hills Dr. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.9470 Interior Decorator - Designer International Minute Press Bill Joles 495 E. Long Ave Gastonia, NC 28054 704.867.3366 Printers Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Mike Jennings 109 Tuckaseegee Rd. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.853.8030 www.jacksonhewitt.com Tax Return Preparation and Filling JBK Lawn Care Josh King 5306 Millstone Court Belmont, NC 28012 704.906.0019 Lawn Care - Landscaping JIA Asian Fusion & Sushi Bar Peter Wu 3826 S. New Hope Rd Ste 1 Gastonia, NC 28056 704.879.9344 Restaurants Joe's Touch of Italy Allison Hohman 503 S. Central Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.2805 Restaurants Johnson & Wales University Jeff Thomas 801 W. Trade St Charlotte, NC 28202 980.598.3105 Schools - College and University Jon Walker Stables & Riding Academy Carolyn Walker 4933 Granny Trail Gastonia, NC 28056 704.864.6529 www.jonwalkerstables.net Riding Stables

ID AssociatesCaroMont Medical Group Michelle Brown 2711 X-Ray Dr. Gastonia, N 28054 704.834.2465 Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists

Keep Belmont Beautiful Judy Closson 1401 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.8587 www.keepbelmontbeautiful.org Non-Profit Organizations

Ideashop Jim Flanders 104 Johnsburry Dr. Stanley, N 28164 704.263.0598 Graphic Design

Keith Hawthorne Ford Keith Hawthorne 617 N. Main St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5186 Automobile - Sales and Service

Image Gallery Dodie Huffman 132 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.869.8968 www.igstudio.biz Photography

Kennedy Business Solutions Chris Kennedy PO Box 284 Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.277.3779 Merchant Services

ImageMark Business Services, Inc. Walter Payne 3145 Northwest Blvd Gastonia, NC 28052 704.865.4912 Printers Innovations Home Design Center, Inc. Deborah Fox 253 Caroline Ct Denver, NC 28037 980.226.0773 Kitchen and Bath Showroom

Lamar Baker, CPA Lamar Baker 6025 W. Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9628 Accountants - Certified Public Lamar Cash Register Lamar Hice 23 E. Woodrow Ave Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9659 POS Systems, Cash Register Systems Supplies and Service

Linda Hedrick Cox, CPA, PA Linda Cox 16 Oak Grove Dr. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.577.2673 Accountants - Certified Public Lowell, City of Al Greene 101 W. First St. Lowell, NC 28098 704.824.3518 Government Lowe's Home Improvements April Barringer 200 Caldwell Farm Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.6405 Retail LPL Financial Todd Van Der Meid, MBA CFP¬Æ 32 N. Main St., Ste 203 Belmont, NC 28012 704.827.9000 www.vandermeid.com Financial Planner - Investments Lyerly Agency, Inc. Melia Lyerly 126 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.525.3937 Advertising Agency Martin, Charlie & Dot Charlie and Dot Martin 113 N. Central Ave Belmont, NC 28012 Individual Mary Kay Cosmetics Terri Williamson 3514 Heather Lane Gastonia, N 28056 704.867.5971 Cosmetics Mary Kay Cosmetics Beth Brennan 927 River Trail Dr. Lowell, NC 28098 704.898.4253 Cosmetics

McLean Funeral Directors Billy McLean/Rhonda McLean/ Paul English 515 N. Central Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5301 Funeral Directors

NB Technology Moses Neuman, Jr 1421-A E. Franklin Blvd Ste 165 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.644.1220 www.nbtechllc.com Computer Consultant

Parks H. Wilson, Jr-Attorney at Law Parks H. Wilson, Jr. 32 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1079 www.parkswilsonlaw.com Attorneys

Provisions-The Local Market Meredith Coggins 21 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.8168 www.buyprovisions.com Grocers & Markets Retail

Meese Jewelry Company Christina Moose 35 N. Main St Belmont, NC 28012 704.305.2048 Jewelers

NC Farm Bureau Insurance Drew Jones, CLU¬Æ, ChFC¬Æ, LUTCF 26 E. Woodrow Ave. Belmon, N 28012 704.825.5433 / 704.813.4234 Insurance - Auto - Home - Life Business - Renters

Partnership for Children of Lincoln & Gaston Counties Amy Wadsworth 120 Roechling St Dallas, N 28034 704.922.0900 Non-Profit Organizations

PSNC Energy Julie Roper 800 Gaston Rd Gastonia, NC 28053 704.810.3332 Public Utilities

NC Farm Bureau Insurance Paul Simpson 26 E. Woodrow Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5433 Insurance - Auto - Home - Life Business - Renters

Patz Promotional Products Suzanne Patz 2518 Shannon Dr. Belmont, NC 28012 704.266.4116 www.patzpromo.com Promotional Products and Wearables

PSU- Personnel Services Unlimited Melony Harrison 998 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.867.4557 Employment Services - Permanent Temporary

New South Pizza, Inc. (Corporate Offices) Barbara Morgan 100 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4349 Restaurant - Corp. Office

Paull's Accounting & Tax Service John Paull 34 W. Myrtle St Belmont, N 28012 704.860.2561 Accounting and Tax Services

Quilted Thimble Cottage David Thurston 26 N. Main St. Ste 2 Belmont, N 28012 704.266.6445 www.quiltedthimblecottage.com Retail

NewBridge Children's Academy Amanda Hommell 201 S. Central Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.7400 www.newbridgechildrensacademy.com Child Care Center

Pharr Yarns, LLC Bill Carstarphen 100 Main St. McAdenville, NC 28101 704.823.2213 Textile Manufacturing

R.J. Schrift Private Asset Management Ryan Schrift, AIF 100 N. Main St. Ste 123 Belmont, NC 28012 704.266.4275 Financial Planner - Investments

Mercure, Richard Richard Mercure 2611 Tralee Dr. Gastonia, NC 28056 704.691.0567 Individual Michael E. Fayed Financial Planning Michael E. Fayed 420 Park St. Ste 100 Belmont, NC 28012 704.266.5200 Financial Planners - Investments Million Dollar Dog Tara Pellegrino 7206 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704.266.4137 Pet Grooming Montreat CollegeCharlotte Campus Dr. Ed Smith 212 S. Tryon St., Ste 1700 Charlotte, NC 28281 704.790.0910 Schools - College and University Mount Holly, City of Danny Jackson 400 E. Central Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.3931 www.mtholly.us Government

Mary Kay Cosmetics Amanda Rubestein 205 Brookstone Dr Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.718.6170 Cosmetics

Movement Mortgage Sandy Lopez 4201 Congress St Ste 470 Charlotte, N 28209 704.674.3386 Mortgages

Mary Kay Cosmetics Melanie Abernathy 1458 Charles Jonas Hwy Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.913.4126 Cosmetics

MTS Services Pamela Henson 4420 Taggart Creek, Ste 105 Charlotte, NC 28208 704.887.2740 Voice and Data Cabling

Mattamy Homes 2401 Whitehall Park Dr. Ste 700 Charlotte, NC 28273 704.375.9373 www.mattamyhomes.com Real Estate - Residential Developers

Muddy River Distillery Robbie & Caroline Delaney 1500 River Dr. Ste 100 Belmont, NC 28012 704.860.8389 www.muddyriverdistillery.com Distillery/Spirits

Max Baxter, Inc. Max Baxter 500 Costner School Rd. Bessemer City, NC 28016 704.629.4064 Roof - Contractors McAdenville, Town of Farrell A. Buchanan 125 Main St. McAdenville, NC 28101 704.824.3190 Government McCallister, Duane Duane McCallister 110 Berry Mountain Rd Cramerton, NC 28032 704.823.9901 Individual McDonalds/Stanton Enterprise, Inc. Jeff Stanton 125 E. Charlotte Ave Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.820.1074 www.mccarolina.com Restaurants McKenney Family Dealerships Jace Stowe PO Box 708 Belmont, NC 28012 704.823.1040 www.mckenneydealerships.com Automobile - Sales and Service

Mullen, Holland & Cooper P.A. James Martin 301 S. York Rd. Gastonia, NC 28052 704.864.6751 www.mhc-law.com Attorneys My Big Sisters Closet, Inc. Janice Gravely 119 N. Main St. Lowell, NC 28098 704.824.5403 Consignment Store NAPA Auto Parts-Belmont Ron Herms 6846 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5343 Auto Parts and Supplies Nationwide Insurance (Neil Brock & Associates Inc.) Neil Brock 9 N. Main St Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.6868 www.nationwide.com/neilbrock Insurance - Auto - Home - Life Business - Renters

Oak Ridge Dental Arts Eugene K. Olsen DDS 203 S. Main St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9635 www.oakridgedentalarts.com Dentists Old Stone Steak House Matthew Matinata 23 S. Main St. Belmont, N 28012 704.825.9995 Restaurants Omni Wellness Center Emily Wagner 10220 Couloak Dr Charlotte, NC 28216 704.392.9999 www.omniwellnesscenter.com Chiropractors - Health and Wellness Pace Recycling, Inc. Sheila Lambert 1947 C.R. Jones Hwy Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.1985 www.pacerecycling.com Recycling Centers and Services Pack Brothers Collision Center Ronnie Pack 6116 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, N 28012 704.825.9271 Automobile - Body Painting & Repairing Park Sterling Bank-Belmont Jeanne Mack 192 E. Woodrow Ave Belmont, N 28012 704.825.7709 www.parksterlingbank.com Banks - Savings and Loan Park Sterling Bank-Mt. Holly Jeanne Mack 233 S. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.6744 www.parksterlingbank.com Banks - Savings and Loan Park Sterling Bank-Stanley Michael Grose 412 S. Hwy 27 Stanley, NC 28164 704.263.1212 www.parksterlingbank.com Banks - Savings and Loan Park Street United Methodist Ken Taylor 120 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.8480 Churches

Philbeck, Tracy Tracy Philbeck PO Box 1240 Dallas, NC 28034 704.617.3087 www.tracyphilbeck.com Individual

Race City BBQ & Grill of Belmont GT Swindell Stowe Park-Concession Stand Belmont, N 28012 704.691.5575 Restaurants

Pickens, Barbara Barbara Pickens 220 Margaret Hoffman Dr Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.812.8358 Individual

RE/MAX A One Real Estate George NeeSmith 6405 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.9252 Real Estate

Piedmont & Northern Railway Bill Bartosh 1548 Union Rd., Ste B Gastonia, N 28054 704.868.0018 Railroad

Re/Max A One Real EstateLinda Beverley Linda Beverley 6405 Wilkinson Blvd, Ste 1 Belmont, NC 28012 704.860.2405 www.lindabeverly.com Real Estate

Piedmont Service Group Frank Shephard 128 Ft William Ave Belmont, N 28012 919.280.7096 www.piedmontservicegroup.com Energy Efficiency Consultant

RE/MAX Executive Realty Anne Brade 8100 Rocky View Court Belmont, NC 28012 704.650.4951 Real Estate

Pine Island Country Club Larry Yount 1701 Stoneyridge Dr. Charlotte, NC 28214 704.394.1422 Clubs - Private

Real Estate Solutions Grady Denton PO Box 168 Belmont, NC 28012 704.905.8469 Real Estate

Plus Linen & Uniform Service Jody Flowers 1038 Culp Rd. Ste 200 Pineville, NC 28134 704.996.1063 Linen and Uniform Service

Reflection Pointe Homeowners Association Neil Brennan 111 E. Main Ave. Gastonia, NC 28053 704.861.0833 Associations

PNC Bank John Forgan 100 E. Garrison Blvd Gastonia, N 28052 704.852.5600 Banks - Savings and Loan

Reliable Home Appliance Center Martin Lineberger 3001 Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 28056 704.864.5281 Appliance Sales & Service

Portable Restroom Trailers, LLC Teri Pahon 6428 Wilkinson Blvd., Ste. 141 Belmont, NC 28012 1.877.600.8645 www.portablerestroomtrailers.com Toilets - Portable

River Hills Country Club Jim Sutton One Country Club Dr. Lake Wylie, SC 29710 803.831.2126 www.riverhillscc.org Clubs - Private

Preschool Connection Learning Academy Kathy Beaty 102 Glenway St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.8222 Child Care Center

Robert Black Insurance Services Joe Black 108 W. Catawba Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.8331 www.robertblackinsurance.com Insurance - Auto - Home - Life Business - Renters

Robert Lee Stowe, Jr. Family YMCA Susan Mosk 196 YMCA Dr Belmont, NC 28012 704.822.9622 Health Clubs - Fitness Centers Roberts Rentals Aileen Roberts PO Box 551234 Gastonia, NC 28055 704.718.4413 Real Estate - Property Management and Rentals Roberts, Tally Tally Roberts 543 Cox Rd Gastonia, NC 28054 704.400.1783 Individual Robin's Nest Bed & Breakfast Robin Williams 156 N. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.2420 www.robinsnestbb.com Accommodations - Hotels Motels and Bed and Breakfast Rodney Smallwood, CPA Rodney E Smallwood 100 1/2 S. Main St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.8193 Accountants - Certified Public S & L Creations, Inc. Pam Smith 120 E. First St. Lowell, NC 28098 704.824.1930 Awards and Trophies - Screen Printing S.O.C.K.S (Serving Our Community with Kindness in Springwood) Nancy Myers 160 Woodlawn Ave Belmont, NC 28012 704.827.8780 Non Profit Organizations Sake Express Inc. Linda N. Tran 675 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.0400 Restaurants Salon 202 Pam Baxter 202 Market St. Ste E Cramerton, NC 28032 704.824.1093 Hair Salon and Spa Salon on Spring Christine A. Wallace 211 Spring St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.309.3778 www.salononspring.com Hair Salon and Spa Sammy's Neighborhood Pub Sammy Balatsias 25 S. Main St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4266 Restaurants Sanders, Delta P. Delta P. Sanders 205 6th St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.8721 Individual School Resources Dick Cromlish 140 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.2322 / 704.813.3856 School Supplies Seifert, Ellen A. Ellen A. Seifert Belmont, N 28012 704.266.4458 Individual Shari Johnston Shari Johnston 34 Main St. Ste C Belmont, NC 28012 704.363.5740 www.sharijohnston.com Health Clubs - Fitness Centers

www.montcrossareachamber.com

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY Sharp Business Systems Dara Hartman 4404-A Stuart Andrew Blvd Charlotte, N 28217 704.672.3013 Copier - Sales - Service - Repair

South Point Pet Hospital Dr. Jim Dobies 3 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.7774 Veterinarians

Sugarfoot's Garage James Bishop 229 Market St. Cramerton, N 28032 704.879.9181 Automotive - Service and Repair

The Biz Well Corporation Debbie Cole 159 Pitts School Rd. NW Concord, NC 28027 704.763.4087 Advertising - Graphic Design

Sheraton Charlotte Hotel Beverly Zuchowski 3315 Scott Futrell Dr. Charlotte, NC 28208 704.392.1200 Accommodations - Hotels, Motels and Bed and Breakfast

SouthEast Chiropractic Dr. Rick Snyder 71 McAdenville Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8727 www.southeastchiro.com Chiropractors

Summerville Stories Bridget Summerville 613 S. Forest Lane Belmont, N 28012 704.825.2302

The Dental Business Mary Fisher-Day 8922 Carneros Creek Rd. Charlotte, NC 28214 704.904.5070

Shining Hope Farms Milinda Kirkpatrick 328 Whippoorwill Lane Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.3788 Non-Profit Organizations

Southwood Realty Katie Ratchford 165 S. York St. Gastonia, NC 28053 704.869.6024 www.southwoodrealty.com Apartments

Summit Eye Associates Dr. Ann Hoscheit, Dr. Rachael Wruble, Dr. Sandi Farnham 640 Summit Crossing Place, Ste 202 Gastonia, NC 28054 704.865.3937 Optometrists

The Farmer's Fork Preston Wilson 119 N. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.820.6030 Restaurants

Short Run Pro Cathy Morgan 52 Ervin St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1599 www.shortrunpro.com Metal Fabricators Sign Connection B.F. Beasley 1660 Pacolet Ct Gastonia, N 28052 704.868.4500 / 704.678.2242 www.signcon.com Signs Simply Yoga of Belmont, LLC Jessica MacIntosh 34 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.266.2641 Health & Wellness Center Sisters of Mercy South Central Community Myra Joines 101 Mercy Dr. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.5260 www.sistersofmercy.org Non-Profit Organizations Slumpy's Allen Burge 710 Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.9293 www.slumpys.com Manufacturing SND Designs Ryan McGinnis PO Box 963 Gastonia, NC 28053 704.604.1769 www.snddesigns.com Website Design South Main Cycles Steve Pepitone 4 N. Main St. Belmont, N 28012 704.825.8585 Bicycle Dealers & Repairs South Point Family Dentistry Dr. Gary E McCord 1215 Spruce St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5111 www.southpointsmiles.com Dentists South Point Family PracticeBelmont Rick Tonelli 1220 Spruce St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5333 Physicians and Surgeons Family Practice South Point Family PracticeMount Holly Rick Tonelli 112 Woodlawn Ave. Mount Holly, NC28120 704.827.3575 Physicians and Surgeons Family Practice South Point Family PracticeStanley Rick Tonelli 159 E. Dallas Rd Stanley, NC 28164 704.263.0300 Physicians and Surgeons Family Practice

Spartan Dyers, Inc. George Kelada 217 Sterling St Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.0467 www.spartandyers.com Manufacturing Spy Tech, dba City Surveillance Skip Graham 24 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4113 Surveillance Equipment & Sales Stafford Jewelers Todd Stafford 621 Park St Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.6982 Jewelers Stamps, Nancy & Leighton Nancy and Leighton Stamps 2004 Gladelynn Ct Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8149 Individual Stanley, Town of Heath Jenkins 114 S. Main St. Stanley, NC 28164 704.263.4779 Government State Farm Insurance-Art Shoemaker Art Shoemaker 305 Belmont - Mt Holly Rd Belmont, NC 28012 704.827.8433 Insurance - Auto - Home - Life Business - Renters State Farm Insurance-Phil Champion Phil Champion 27 E. Catawba St., Ste A Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8944 www.philchampionsf.com Insurance - Auto - Home - Life Business - Renters Steelwood, Inc. Matt Spiva 915 W. 5th St. Ste 250 Charlotte, NC 28202 704.576.8066 www.steelwoodsolutions.com Real Estate Stowe Manor Sam Stowe 217 S. Central Ave Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4847 Private Lodging Stress Free Home Care Candi Lethcoe PO Box 274 Stanley, NC 28164 704.931.4997 www.stressfreehomecare.com Home Health Services Stricker Law Firm Andrew Brandt 203 Glenway St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.8034 www.strickerlaw.com Attorneys

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Sundara Yoga, LLC Martha Blanchard 4541 Forest Cove Rd. Belmont, NC 28012 980.989.6082 Health & Wellness Center SunTrust Mortgage Mark Wasserman 7940 Williams Pond Lane Ste 100 Charlotte, NC 28277 704.840.6228 Mortgages Surprise Me Poochie Dotson 140 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1116 www.belmontsurpriseme.com Retail Gift Boutique

The Hand Center of the Carolinas Dan McMahan 2391 Court Dr. Gastonia, NC 28054 704.866.8876 Physicians and Surgeons - Specialists The John Crosland School Sean Preston 5146 Parkway Plaza Charlotte, N 28217 704.365.5490 Schools - Private The Pointe Church Phyllis Brann 6700 Wilkinson Blvd. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.1709 www.forestpointe.org Churches

Swerve Salon & Rejuvenation Studio Andria Hicks 1105 Spruce St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.8001 Hair Salon and Spa

The Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club of Gaston County Amber Tracewell 715 N. Main St. Lowell, NC 28098 704.824.4773 Non Profit Organizations

Tastebuds Popcorn Jay Pithwa 203 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8755 Retail

The Schiele Museum Amy Ballard 1500 E. Garrison Blvd Gastonia, NC 28054 704.866.6908 Museum

Taxco Mexican Grill Sabrina A. Chavez 6418 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, N 28012 704.825.2108 www.taxcomexicangrill.com Restaurants

The UPS Store Rajesh Patel 6428 Wilkinson Blvd Belmont, NC 28012 704.829.1050 www.theupsstore.com/4544.htm Mailing Services - Shipping, Packaging and Printing

Taylor Law Firm, PLLC Yansea Taylor 100 N. Main St. Ste 106 Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8785 www.taylorlawpllc.com Attorneys

The Vintage Nest Jeffrey Lee 127 S. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.3355 Vintage Store

Taylor, Jonathan Jonathan Taylor 25 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.400.7061 Individual Techtheon Global Solutions, LLC Marc R. Burns 100 N. Main St., Ste 207 Belmont, NC 28012 704.461.8260 www.techtheon.com Business Class Broadband Internet Cloud Consulting/Computer Consultant Computer Repair/CRM/Disaster Recovery ERP/Google Apps for Business Managed Email/Network Access Storage Online Backup/SEO/Voip Telephones Website Design Terrace Ridge Assisted Living Patti Lineberger 1251 E. Hudson Blvd Gastonia, NC 28054 704.865.5556 Assisted Living The Belmont Housing Authority Erica Bobo 51 Flowers Ct. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9376 Apartments

Things Remembered Custom Framing & So Much More! Joy Owens 3805 S. New Hope Rd. Gastonia, N 28056 704.824.0473 www.thingsremembered-framing.com Picture Framer - Yarn and Needle Retail Gift Boutique Time Warner Cable Mike Tanck 2125 Union Rd. Gastonia, NC 28056 877.566.48923 Cable & Satellite Television Tina Smith Realty Tina Smith 425 W. Franklin Blvd Gastonia, NC 28052 704.866.8462 www.tinasmithrealty.com Real Estate Tindol Ford Subaru Natalie Tindol 1901 E. Franklin Blvd Gastonia, NC 28054 704.867.8341 www.tindolford.com www.tindolsubaru.com Automobile - Sales and Service Automobile Repair and Service

Tommy Bynum Insulation, Heating & Cooling Kellie Ellis 331 E. Catawba St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.4463 Heating and Air Condition Sales - Services - Repair Track One Productions, Inc. Tracy Hollifield 1106 Clark Hill Dr Belmont, N 28012 704.724.3500 www.trackoneproductions.com Video Production TRC Automotive Chris Sorrentino 310-A Fuller St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.6550 Automotive - Service and Repair Treescape Inc. Tracy L. Philbeck 618 Linwood Rd. Gastonia, NC 28052 704.867.4100 www.treescapeonline.com Tree Services - Landscape Truliant Federal Credit Union Tammy Kane 121 Main St. McAdenville, NC 28101 704.824.4328 ext. 4301 www.trulliantfcu.org Credit Unions Twin Rivers Network Connectors of BNI Bill Joles & Diana Blair 495 E. Long Ave. Gastonia, NC 28054 Bill - 704.867.3366 Diana- 704.825.4250 www.bniconnectorglobal.com Non-Profit Organizations Two Rivers Utilities Matt Bernhardt 1300 N. Broad St Gastonia, NC 28053 704.866.6843 Public Utilities U.S. Congressman Patrick McHenry Brett Keeter 128 W. Main Ave. Ste 115 Gastonia, NC 28053 704.833.0096 Government U.S. National Whitewater Center Jeff Wise 5000 Whitewater Ctr Pkwy Charlotte, NC 28214-0543 704.391.3900 www.usnwc.org Outdoor Recreation United Way of Gaston County Deborah Ally 200 E. Franklin Blvd. Gastonia, NC 28053 704.864.4554 www.unitedwaygaston.org Non-Profit Organizations

Wal-Mart of Belmont Robert Kendrick 701 Hawley Ave. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.8885 Retail Watson Insurance Agency Paul Hendricks, CIC 302 E. Catawba Ave Belmont, N 28012 704.874.4710 Insurance - Auto - Home - Life Business - Renters Wells Fargo Bank-Belmont Brandon Garner 635 Park St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5260 Banks - Savings and Loan Wells Fargo BankDowntown Belmont Russell Anderson 32 N. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.5423 Banks - Savings and Loan Wells Fargo Bank-Mt. Holly Jacob Farnham 101 S. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.5822 Banks - Savings and Loan Wilbert Plastic Services Greg Botner 2001 Oaks Parkway Belmont, NC 28012 704.247.3850 Manufacturing William Henry Signature SalonBelmont Somer Wilson 15 S. Main St. Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.9040 Hair Salon and Spa William Henry Signature SalonMount Holly Somer Wilson 104 N. Main St. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.827.1234 Hair Salon and Spa Williford Financial Services Eric Williford 34 W. Myrtle St Belmont, NC 28012 704.266.5020 Financial Planning and Investment Management Woodlawn Funeral Home Carol Carothers 375 Woodlawn Ave. Mount Holly, NC 28120 704.820.0608 Funeral Directors

Ventureprise, Inc. Marilyn Carpenter 8701 Mallard Creek Rd Charlotte, NC 28262 704.548.9113 www.ventureprise.org/ Small Business Consulting Visiting Angels Jay Hancock 100 N. Main St. Ste 212 Belmont, NC 28012 704.825.3350 www.visitingangels.com/gaston Home Health Services Senior Citizens Homecare W. Porter Rhoton III, Attorney at Law, P.A. W. Porter Rhoton III 32 E. Woodrow Ave Belmont, N 28012 704.825.2029 Attorneys Walk and Run Belmont Julie Seligman 200 N. Main St. Belmont, N 28012 704.829.1082 Retail

Stop to consider when you need to purchase a product or service that it is to your advantage to BUY LOCAL. Not only do you help the local economy by supporting a fellow business but you also keep your dollars local by contributing to the tax base of your town rather than that of another community. The Montcross Area Chamber has been promoting BUY LOCAL since 2008 as a way businesses can help each other through the recession.

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

DIRECTORS (1st Year) Candi Lethcoe Stress Free Home Care Jace Stowe McKenney Family Dealerships

JOIN THE CHAMBER - Chamber Business Memberships start at only $205 per year, $170 for Non-Profit Organizations, and $100 for Individuals and Couples. A Chamber Membership is a great way to meet people and learn about your community. For more information, visit our website at www.montcrossareachamber.com or call 704-825-5307 ext. 3.

PO Box 368 • Belmont, NC 28012 Ph: 704-825-5307 • Fax: 704-825-5550 www.MontcrossAreaChamber.com

Steve Jones Carolinas HealthCare System Phil Champion State Farm Insurance Brad Thomas, Chair Creative Solutions Special Events Melia Lyerly, Chair-Elect Lyerly Agency Robert Aldrich, Treasurer Aldrich CFO Services Shannon Prince, Secretary Holy Angels Brian Herre, Past-Chair Park Sterling Bank DIRECTORS (3rd Year) Delta Sanders Creative Travel Marc Burns Techtheon Global Solutions Brad Burns Duke Energy

Carey Roberts Carey Roberts Design DIRECTORS (1-Year Terms) Chris Goff-Peeler Belmont Abbey College Matt Matinata Old Stone Steakhouse Rachael Wruble Summit Eye Associates ADVISORY DIRECTORS Barry Webb Belmont City Manager Michael Peoples Cramerton Town Manager Danny Jackson Mount Holly City Manager Heath Jenkins Stanley Town Manager

Alex Mullineaux CaroMont Health

Farrell Buchanan Mayor of McAdenville

Marc Stout Gaston Christian School

Al Greene Lowell City Manager

DIRECTORS (2nd Year)

Chad Brown Gaston County Commissioner

Walter Payne ImageMark Business Services Gina Falco BB&T

WWW.CSSPECIALEVENTS.COM

Dick Cromlish Gaston County Economic Development Commission STAFF

Jane Collins PSNC Energy

Ted Hall President

Brad Rivers Gaston College

Teresa Rankin VP Business Services

Jim Crisp Clearbrook Advisory Services

Deborah Ray Benton Office Manager

www.harbortownemarina.com www.montcrossareachamber.com

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/

Gaston County Police Dept. ............... 704-866-3320 Gaston County Sheriff’s Dept. ............ 704-869-6800

Telephone AT&T ................................. Residential - 800-288-2020 Business - 866-620-6000 www.att.com

Crime Stoppers .................................. 704-861-8000

Windstream ........................... 1-866-971-WIND (9463) www.windstream.com

Gaston Emergency Medical Services (GEMS)

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

Fire Marshall ...................................... 704-866-3355

Cable Time Warner Cable ................................ 877-566-4892 www.twcarolina.com

Hospital & Urgent Care

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

Emergency Management .................... 704-866-3350 After Hours ...... 704-866-3300 ....... 704-866-3212

Highway Patrol .................................. 919-733-7952 North Carolina Road Conditions ........... 511

CaroMont Regional Medical Center .... 704-834-2000 Carolinas Healthcare Urgent Care ....... 704-631-1820 Miscellaneous North Carolina Poison Control Voice/TDD/TTY ............... 1-800-222-1222

Cramerton www.cramerton.org Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-8943 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-3915 Town Hall ........................................ 704-824-4337 Parks and Recreation ....................... 704-824-4231 Post Office ....................................... 704-824-7411

www.lowellnc.com Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-8540 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-3357 Town Hall ........................................ 704-824-3190 Parks and Recreation ....................... 704-824-0099 Post Office ....................................... 704-824-1101

American Red Cross ........................... 704-864-2623

McAdenville

Animal Control .................................. 704-922-8677

www.mcadenville-christmastown.com Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-824-3922 Town Hall ....................................... 704-824-3190 Post Office ....................................... 704-824-0915

After Hours ...... 704-922-8678

Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce ........................................................... 704-825-5307 www.montcrossareachamber.com

Better Business Bureau ...................... 704-927-8611

Gaston County Department of Tourism ........................................................... 704-825-4044 www.visitgaston.org

Cancer Services of Gaston County .......... 704-864-1271

Visit Belmont NC ............................. 704-829-4240 www.visitbelmontnc.org

www.cityofbelmont.org Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-825-3792 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-825-0502 City Hall .......................................... 704-825-5586 Parks and Recreation ....................... 704-825-8191 Post Office ....................................... 704-825-6101

Lowell

Battered Women’s Shelter .................. 704-852-6000

Gaston County Economic Development Commission ..................................... 704-825-4046 www.gaston.org

Belmont

or 1-877-317-7236 Births, Deaths and Marriages .............. 704-862-7680 Cooperative Extension Service ............... 704-922-0301 Gaston County Building Inspections .... 704-866-3960 Gaston County Elections .................... 704-852-6005 Gaston County Health Dept. ............... 704-853-5000 Gaston County Tax Office ................... 704-866-3158

Mount Holly www.mtholly.us Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-827-4343 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-822-2927 City Hall .......................................... 704-827-3931 Parks and Recreation ....................... 704-951-3005 Post Office ....................................... 704-827-6415

Gaston County Register of Deeds ........ 704-862-7680

Stanley

Libraries Gaston County Regional Libraries www.glrl.lib.nc.us

Gaston County Parks and Recreation .. 704-922-2160

Main Branch - Gastonia ........................ 704-868-2164 Belmont ............................................... 704-825-5426 Lowell .................................................. 704-824-1266 Mount Holly ......................................... 704-827-3581 Stanley ................................................. 704-263-4166

Salvation Army ................................... 704-867-6145

www.townofstanley.org Police Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-263-4778 Fire Department (non-emergency) ............................. 704-263-4777 Town Hall ....................................... 704-263-4779 Parks and Recreation ....................... 704-263-4000 Post Office ....................................... 704-263-2058

MONTCROSS AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Gaston County Senior Center .............. 704-922-2170 Gaston County Veterans Service .......... 704-866-3606 Social Services ................................... 704-862-7500 United Way of Gaston County ............. 704-864-4554