Cabarrus CURRENT
CUTTING EDGE
CONNECTED
APRIL 2020
MAGAZINE
The Changing Face of
Kannapolis
Kannapolis – The Comeback Kid P. 6 The Kannapolis Cannon Ballers: Looking Forward to a Homerun P. 14 Great Brew and Big Hearts: Old Armor Beer Taps into Kannapolis P. 18
Healthy Living | Breaking Bread | Cabarrus Business | Events Calendar | Business Resources
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[ Publisher’s Notes ]
Word on the Street
W
ord on the street is the streets are silent-ish. As I’m writing this, we are a little over a week in to the COVID-19 restrictions put in place by our local and state government. I’m not going to lie. Just like every other small business in the country, we have been forced to think of creative ways to stay relevant and keep up our awareness in the community. In response to these restrictions, as well as concern for our own employees’ safety, and the fact many of our distribution locations are not currently open to the public, we decided to produce our April issue in a digitalonly format. After all, why print a magazine that can’t be distributed? However, that doesn’t mean we’re just waiting to go back to work either. Our website, www.cabarrusmagazine.com is constantly being updated with news relevant to our community, as well as informative guides to help you through this time and plan for the future. Recently, we compiled and posted a restaurant guide to provide the community with an up-to-date resource for residents that details information on which restaurants are still providing take-out, curbside and delivery services in Cabarrus County. Of course, these restrictions can’t last forever, and summer is just around the corner. Parents still need to plan summer camps. So, we have also launched our 2020 Summer Camp Guide, sponsored by Code Ninjas. This resource will allow parents to find the perfect camp for their child, sorted by interest and dates, complete with links for registration and more information. Don’t forget our podcast, Up Front with Cabarrus Magazine, also provides an enormous amount of information during this difficult time. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, the program has already conducted interviews with Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-8) and Pastor Dale Jenkins, as well as Dr. Suda, of the Cabarrus Health Alliance. Coming this month, we will have tips for parents who are learning to homeschool their children while schools are closed, and ways you can still help in the community, among other topics. The podcast can be found on our website, as well as iTunes and Google Play. This issue is a little bittersweet. We have been excited to profile the major changes taking place in Kannapolis since last fall, when we planned our editorial calendar. While we are still able to do that, it is without a printed counterpart and with the knowledge many will not be able to enjoy the locations we discuss in this edition until after the restrictions are lifted. However, we know you will enjoy reading about them just the same and it may give you something to look forward to once this is all over. Until that time, please do your best to support local businesses as much as possible, and don’t waste any opportunity to show others you care. Remember, we are all in this together. Sincerely,
Jason Huddle 4 | Cabarrus Magazine
Cabarrus MAGAZINE
April 2020 Volume 20 | Issue 4 PRESIDENT Pam Tolen PUBLISHER Jason Huddle ADVERTISING Kimberly Brouillette, Jason Huddle DESIGN SPARK Publications CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Pam Tolen Kimberly Brouillette Jason Huddle CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS City Of Kannapolis Kannapolis Cannon Ballers Rowan Cabarrus Community College Visit Cabarrus Michael A. Anderson Photography
Cabarrus Magazine is published by: CabCo Media Group 296 Church Street N., Hidden Plaza Concord, NC 28025 For editorial inquiries, call 704-782-2353 or email them to PR@cabarrusmagazine.com. For advertising inquiries, call 704-782-2353. Visit us at cabarrusmagazine.com. All rights reserved. ©2020, Comfort Publishing, Inc., 296 Church Street N., Concord, NC 28025. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without permission is prohibited. Products named in these pages are trademarks of their respective companies. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of Cabarrus Magazine or Comfort Publishing, Inc.
[ April 2020 ]
The Changing Face of Kannapolis 6
FEATURES 6
Kannapolis – The Comeback Kid From Devastation to Restoration, Kannapolis is Back
14
The Kannapolis Cannon Ballers: Looking Forward to a Homerun
18
Great Brew and Big Hearts: Old Armor Beer Taps into Kannapolis
14
REGULARS 13
Cannon Pharmacy: Should you “Raise A Toast” for Your Health?
23
An Outdoor Brunch Eggs Benedict Casserole
24
Cabarrus Business: On the Go
27 18
Business Resources: At a Glance
April 2020 | 5
[ Feature ]
This artist rendering shows what the new downtown area in Kannapolis will look like once completed.
6 | Cabarrus Magazine
[ Feature ]
Kannapolis
The
Comeback Kid B BY PAMILLA S. TOLEN
y 1796, the town of Concord, NC in Cabarrus County had been established. However, it wasn’t until 1906 that “Kannapolis,” as it became officially named later, was founded. Until 1877, Concord remained a small Southern town, still recovering from the Civil War. The person who should be given credit for the events that initiated the establishment of Kannapolis is Captain J. M. Odell. Originally from Randolph County, Odell saw potential for the textile business growth in Cabarrus County.
April 2020 | 7
[ Feature ]
The West Avenue phase of the revitalization project has been completed. Visitors can now enjoy art, breathtaking fountains and a great environment to shop and eat.
8 | Cabarrus Magazine
He purchased a failing cotton mill in in an area called Forest Hill and began producing cotton cloth. Eventually, the Concord facility was renamed Locke Mill. This precipitated the building of Kerr Bleachery, which bleached the cloth, as well as the Kerr Bag Manufacturing Company that shipped it out. The success of these enterprises led James William Cannon, the father of Charles A. Cannon, to establish the first textile plant in the new area in 1906, after succeeding with his textile business in Concord. It later came to be called Cannon Mills, Plant Number 1, which was located on the site of what is now The N.C. Research Campus in Kannapolis. Because of a two-year cotton shortage, the mill finally began production in 1908. Cannon’s vision was to provide the cotton from his own fields, manufacture cloth and sell textiles though his company’s sales organization. In less than one year, the success of this venture was astonishing. The results included a small population of people which clustered around the plant. It was the birth of what would eventually become Kannapolis. However, at that time, it was simply known as “Cannonville.” Later, workers began calling the small village “Cannapolis.” Soon, James Cannon asked Cabarrus County commissioners to give the town an official name. The “C” was replaced with a “K,” and Kannapolis was born. James Cannon’s vision far exceeded the textile plant. He began by purchasing 600 acres of land that had at one time been a cotton plantation. Cannon laid out a tract of land on that property that would provide homes for the workers in his plant. Once finished, he could not only raise the cotton for the mill, but also provide the labor. By January, 1909, the Cannon Manufacturing Company, as it was then named, employed over 800 people at Plant No. 1. James Cannon also wanted to provide the essentials and amenities for
people who worked for him, as well as those who established businesses to provide goods and entertainment for his workers. He donated money to build schools for the education of the workers. In addition, he built stores, businesses, churches and much more. By 1909, Cannon was even instrumental in getting the Cabarrus County government to improve the roads from Concord to Kannapolis, as well as construct electric lights, a water-works facility, and a sewerage system. In addition to housing and other daily needs, Cannon built a YMCA auditorium in 1922, which had the largest membership in the world at one time. When James Cannon passed away, due to an illness in 1921, his son, Charles, who was already president of the company, continued his legacy. At the time of his death, Kannapolis had grown to approximately 6,000 citizens and the mill employed about 15,000 workers. If James or Charles had been able to look ahead to the future of the town, it’s easy to wonder if they would have realized that, with all the good they did, they created an environment where much, if not all the town, became dependent on the mill to survive and flourish. But flourish it did — through strikes, world wars and even the Great Depression. For almost 100 years, the people of Kannapolis were secure in their knowledge that Cannon Mills would always be there to support them, generation after generation. When the original workers at the mill retired, their children took their places. One generation after the other, the mill was a secure source of income, no matter what else was happening in the world around them. One serious problem began to arise from that environment. Many of the children of the mill workers either never finished high school, or they graduated and went straight to work at the mill. Most didn’t pursue higher education because there was no need to.
By 1982, Cannon Mills was struggling. The U.S. dollar was high, which allowed Europe and Asia to begin dumping lower cost textile products into the market. This made the cost of producing products in America difficult at best. Eventually, the choice became clear that Cannon Mills could not survive on its own. The company allowed the controlling stock interest to be purchased by billionaire, David H. Murdock. The following year, when the mill’s bed and bath division was purchased by Fieldcrest Mills, the name was changed to Fieldcrest-Cannon. But the old “never say die” spirit that had exuded in the people of Kannapolis continued, even though for the first-time, people were becoming hesitant about the future of their town. Employees were still working at the mill and the pension fund that had been established to take care of them was still providing
retirement benefits, but the mood was slowly changing. The biggest blow was yet to come. In September 1997, David Murdock sold Fieldcrest-Cannon to Pillowtex Corporation for $700,000,000. However, unknown to all the people whose lives revolved around the mill, part of the sale included the pension fund. Murdock took $39,000,000 from the fund leaving only around $11,000,000 to support the countless people who had given their whole lives to the mill. Just three short years later, Pillowtex filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Overnight, on July 30, 2003, 4,340 people in Kannapolis alone, became unemployed. According to Google, the population of Kannapolis in 2003 was 38,199. It represented over 10% percent of the population that worked for the mill and affected everyone that owned a business and depended on them as customers.
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April 2020 | 9
[ Feature ]
If this were a melodrama, the city of Kannapolis would be the perfect story. In a melodrama, for those not acquainted, there are only three main characters — the Hero, the Heroine, and the Villain. Of course, it’s easy to spot the “heroine,” who were the people who literally gave their all to support the town to help it to grow. The villain, however, might not be quite as evident. Was it the Cannons, who in their zeal to create a town to support their businesses, never foresaw the damage that they were causing for the future by creating a workforce totally dependent on one main industry to provide for their businesses? Could the villain be the US government which began allowing the dumping of both textile products and equipment into the country in the early 1980’s, ultimately resulting in the demise of the textile industry? Or, 10 | Cabarrus Magazine
was it David Murdock and his act of taking the pensions from a group of people that were not in a position to support themselves in any other way at that time? Maybe, the villain was all of these. So, who is the “hero,” or to be politically correct, the “protagonist”? Imagine hearing the theme song from “Rocky” (Gonna Fly Now) while visualizing Sylvester Stallone as he ran up the steps at the Philadelphia Art Museum preparing for the fight of his life. Unlike most melodramas, where the villain gets what is coming to him, this story took a whole new twist. The villain became the hero. At one time, David H. Murdock appeared as if his actions would be the eventual downfall of the city. However, in 2005, he emerged with a vision for the establishment of The North Carolina
Research Center on the site of the original Cannon Mills Plant No. 1. He related his vision to the University of NC and the State of North Carolina, eventually partnering with them to accomplish the project. In 2006, Murdock bought back the mill site from Pillowtex and reacquired the surrounding land. Once he demolished the mill buildings, construction on the research campus began. In 2008, a 311,000 square-foot structure, named the David H. Murdock Research Core Laboratory, was the first building to open, along with the North Carolina Plants for Human Health Institute building, and the UNC Chapel Hill Nutrition Research Institute building. Today, the Research Center has expanded into a complex of buildings. It includes the headquarters of the Cabarrus Health Alliance, the regional
[ Feature ]
The West Avenue portion of the revitalization project was completed and opened in October 2019.
public health authority; a 60,000 square foot Class A medical office building housing Atrium as its main tenant; Bio-Armor, a company that employs nanotechnology to produce hand sanitizers that do not use alcohol; Discovery MS, a non-profit research initiative working on several ongoing multiple sclerosis research projects; Ei, A Pharmaceutical Solutionworks™ which employs a 24-person research and development team, known as Endev Laboratories, and the list continues to expand. Out of these advances in the community, the Kannapolis Downtown Revitalization Project was initiated. According to Annette Privette, communications director for the City of Kannapolis, a master plan was developed that would preserve the city’s most historic buildings, while bringing in private developers.
These companies were to make major improvements to the area through new construction, or complete renovation to existing buildings. Once completed, the developers were to sell them to investors for mixed commercial use such as offices, restaurants and office space. In addition, a city-owned public parking lot and deck would provide ample space. Other blocks would be set aside for developers who want to build townhome units and apartments, which would be available by 2021. “Street Scape,” or West Avenue, was the first project and officially opened in October 2019. The opening festival attracted an estimated 3,000 people who came to celebrate. After the official opening, popularity of the project promoted activities once or twice a week, from October through Thanksgiving, 2019. Even so, West
Street has attracted walkers and joggers regularly. To enhance the new area, four pieces of public art were unveiled. They include murals, a “selfie” wall and a sculpture. Three were donated by private citizens and one was purchased by the City of Kannapolis. “The street was planned as a park, so it provides fountains, outdoor dining, adult swings, various seating options, and even a putting green. In addition, there are areas for yoga and other classes, and two different stages for performances,” stated Privette. The second undertaking was Vida Street, with the construction of a new apartment complex. It will house 200 units, with retail space on the ground floor. This project is expected to be completed by early 2021. According to Privette, Kannapolis is striving to construct infrastructure April 2020 | 11
[ Feature ]
Part of the revitalization project includes wall art and breathtaking fountains for residents and visitors to enjoy while they shop and eat.
12 | Cabarrus Magazine
and public amenities that generate value for the future. The third phase of the master plan is the construction of a sports and entertainment complex that will include a performing arts center. To date, the old train station and its surrounding buildings have been demolished to provide for a parking lot. A new train platform and pedestrian bridge are also planned for that space. Block 1, where the Gem Theater is located, is being purchased by the city. The theater, an icon of the community, will remain with improvements, beginning in 2020. In addition, an apartment complex is purposed for Block 15, between West Avenue and Vance Street. Housing at the complex will be restricted to the over 55 age group. Finally, a hotel is in early negotiations. From its earliest beginnings, the people of Kannapolis have had the ability to give their all to whatever comes their way. They’ve made “lemonade from lemons.” Today, the town has come full circle. There is an irony in that, when it began, most Kannapolis residents never needed higher education to work in the mill. Now, this town is an inspiration to the idea that people adapt to their circumstances. The mill town of the earlier decades has now become a research center that produces products that will influence the entire world and brings in the most educated professionals. The revitalization plan has spawned the reconstruction of a region once driven by a single industry. It’s forming it into a town that provides the needs and amenities which attract a variety of companies. These will create many new jobs and offer a variety of entertainment venues for its citizens. Hats off to the people of Kannapolis. They are truly the “Comeback Kids,” and an inspiration to all. For more information about the Kannapolis Revitalization Project please visit these websites. Kannapolis Downtown Redevelopment > Home > Project Overview https://www.kannapolisnc.gov
Should you “Raise A Toast” for Your Health?
T
here are two popular opinions about alcohol usage when it relates to health. “Alcohol consumption leads to alcoholism and death,” “A little glass of wine is good for your heart.” These are so different, so which is correct? There could be some truth to both, but the answer is not that simple when it comes to alcohol usage and its impact on certain medications. Alcohol is considered a Central Nervous System depressant, which means that it slows down brain function and neural activity. Since the alcohol is going in your bloodstream, this means it will travel through organs, such as the brain, heart, liver, and pancreas. This may explain why people want a drink to relax in the evening. Coincidentally, medications also enter your bloodstream and are processed by organs, such as the liver. This is why alcohol can, at times, cause complications if you are taking certain medications. To complicate matters, some medications stay in the system for an extended period of time, which means that using alcohol during any part of the day could be problematic. However, it is safe to say if you take an OverThe-Counter medication (e.g. Tylenol) or even a prescription medication there is a potential for an adverse medication interaction with alcohol. So, how would you know? One step could be to visit the National Institute of Health’s website about possible medications that could cause interactions. This would NOT be the only step, as it is imperative that you consult with your pharmacist about all Over-TheCounter medications, prescriptions, and herbal/alternative medications that you are taking. This would include a candid discussion of your alcohol consumption on a weekly basis. Only a pharmacist would be well versed to have this discussion as one person may
react differently than another person (e.g. age, gender, other health issues). When you completely understand your medications and the reactions with mixing alcohol, you can safely
[ Healthy Living ] BY AMANDA BUCK SPONSORED BY CANNON PHARMACY
plan accordingly and confidently say, “Cheers to my health.” *For further information about this subject, please visit: https://www.niaaa.nih.gov
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April 2020 | 13
N NON B A C S I L A O LLE P NA
RS
THE K AN
[ Feature ]
n u r e m o H a o t ard
w r o F g n i k o Lo
A S ON BY: J
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H U DD
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[ Feature ] Editor’s Note: When we originally interviewed the Cannon Ballers for this article, public health restrictions due to the COVID-19 virus had not yet been instituted. However, the information contained in this story will still be applicable when these restrictions have been concluded. Below is a statement from Team General Manager, Matt Millward: “Due to uncertainty regarding the start of 2020 season, individual game tickets will not go on sale…as originally planned. In accordance to the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Major League Baseball announced the season would be delayed for at least the next eight weeks. The Cannon Ballers had been set to open the brand-new Atrium Health Ballpark on April 16. Tickets will go on sale at the earliest possible time once additional information is confirmed. To ensure the safety of fans and staff, the Cannon Ballers Front Office and Team Store will be closed to the public until further notice. Fans can still shop for gear online at www.kcballers.com, and all orders will ship free within the United States.”
B
aseball has always been an important part of the Cabarrus region. During the Great Depression, teams like the Concord Weavers and Kannapolis Towelers gave families an escape from tough times and provided a few hours of enjoyment at the ballpark. So, it’s no surprise when there is any change to our local team, it would garner some publicity and reaction from fans. Today, now sporting a new name and stadium, this team is poised to be something special. With another economic crisis set to burden our country, it may need to be exactly that. During the spring of 2001, Cabarrus Magazine (CM) featured the newly named, Kannapolis Intimidators, in only its second issue. The team, just months prior, had been purchased by Larry and Sue Hendrick, Bruton Smith and the late Dale Earnhardt Sr. In fact, before that inaugural Intimidators team could take the field, it was already grieving the loss of Earnhardt, who had died tragically during a race at Daytona International Speedway just weeks before. At that time, the newly designated name served to honor the man so many in the community and the entire country, loved and respected. Before the Intimidators, there were other iterations of the team name. When the organization came to the
area in 1994, they were called the Piedmont Phillies, which was owned by the Philadelphia Phillies at the time. Once they became the property of the Chicago White Sox in 1996, the name was changed to the Boll Weevils (paying homage to the small bug known as a huge nuisance in the textile industry). After the Intimidators name came into being, it stood for 19 seasons and the team became a fixture in the community, even winning a South Atlantic League Championship in 2005. However, the team was not without its challenges. The stadium it occupied was located in an area that was too distant for many fans in the region, making attendance inconsistent. In addition, ownership changed hands a few times, which created transitional difficulties. Finally, when the current ownership, Temerity Baseball, LLC, took over the team in November 2018, it wasn’t long before they announced major changes would be coming. Construction of a new stadium, that would be located in downtown Kannapolis, was already underway. However, that wasn’t the only thing that needed changing. In February 2019, the team announced it would be changing its name and sought input from the public for a new moniker, which would take effect in 2020.
“
Today, now sporting a new name and stadium, this team is poised to be something special. With another economic crisis set to burden our country, it may need to be exactly that.”
Operating partner for the team, Scotty Brown said of the name change on the very first episode of Up Front with Cabarrus Magazine podcast, “… we don’t own the name. So if you’re going to move into a brand new shiny building and you’re gonna’ put up new signs and all this stuff, and then three years down the road, you find out that you can’t use that name anymore, that can become a problem.” Brown was eluding to the fact that the Earnhardt family still held the rights to the team name, and it was not likely they would be willing to relinquish those rights. In October 2019, the team finally announced the new name, The Kannapolis Cannon Ballers. “The Cannon Ballers was the first of the 10 (finalist) names (received from the public) and I knew it was the one,” April 2020 | 15
[ Feature ]
“
Indeed, the color scheme of the team logo, along with a name that harkens back to the founder of Kannapolis, James W. Cannon, and a mascot, named “Boomer”, who bears a striking resemblance to the late Dale Earnhardt, Sr., evokes feelings of nostalgia and Americana.”
remembered General Manager Matt Millward. “The red, white and blue and all-American feel of just connects with families. The Cannon family is very much a part of the DNA of this community. It plays well with everything from aesthetics to the food and beverages we provide. Up to this point, it’s been a homerun.” Indeed, the color scheme of the team logo, along with a name that harkens back to the founder of Kannapolis, James W. Cannon, and a mascot, named “Boomer,” who bears a striking resemblance to the late Dale Earnhardt, Sr., evokes feelings 16 | Cabarrus Magazine
[ Feature ] of nostalgia and Americana. It is as if the team is trying to recapture the magic of fans taking their families to the ballpark, before television enabled them to watch games from home. As to the move of the team to downtown Kannapolis, Millward says it will transform the area. “We had affordable family fun at the old ballpark, but now we can take it to the next level. We know people will come to the park and be overwhelmed with the overall experience. The old stadium was not at a convenient location. With the new location, you can catch dinner or go to the brewery, before or after the game, enjoy a game and walk to both activities. It’s not only going to impact our organization, but everything Kannapolis is planning.” The new stadium, set to makes its debut when the season starts, is truly impressive for a single-A team. Millward says fans and Kannapolis residents will appreciate it from the day it opens. “The 360 (degrees) concourse is there so you can jog or walk around the ballpark,” he explained. “Our ‘kids play’ area will make us stand out from any other stadium. It’s going to be a great area for kids and parents to take some time away. There are 3600 seats in the stadium and everyone is up-close to the action. We also put into place the protective netting for fans safety and peace of mind. Our club space on the suite level is 5000 sq. ft. There is (meeting space) that can be used all year long. With a lack of event spaces locally, this will be a great addition to the community. There’s something for everyone — even an outfield bar. The new video board (which the old stadium lacked) will certainly increase the fan experience as well and engage with the fans. My favorite thing is that we have a main staple for ages 2 to 82.” However, despite the best laid plans, and a great deal of enthusiasm from the community, no one could have foreseen the threat, and ultimate delay of the season, caused by the COVID-19, “Corona” virus. When Major League Baseball (MLB) announced a delay to start its
upcoming season, Millward knew the Cannon Ballers, as a part of Minor League Baseball, would soon follow suit. “The pause button has been pushed,” Millward told CM. “Minor League Baseball has delayed the start of the season. We don’t know if April 16 will be our actual opening night. Obviously, the health and safety of our fans, team and staff are our top priority. We are fortunate this is brand new facility, so no fans have been in the stadium yet. The ballpark will be spotless and sanitized from head to toe when we do open.” Unfortunately, Millward also explained the team is, “at the mercy of whatever MLB decides.” When the season finally does begin, Millward can’t promise the public a winning team. Even in a non-virus threatened season, minor league teams typically do not know who their players will be until the conclusion
of spring training, which is only a couple of weeks before the season begins. In addition, due to the nature of minor league baseball, many of the players on the roster at the beginning of the season won’t be there at its conclusion. If a player is doing well, he may be moved up to an AA or even AAA team. Some players in the team’s history have even gone on to play in the majors. Regardless, Millward is confident the fan experience will be enjoyable no matter who takes the field. “In terms of the team itself. I have no idea if we will be a first or last place team. Where we see our success is providing that entertainment value for fans. I would say the goals I have for our staff is painting that level of entertainment.” The Cannon Ballers are poised to make an impact on this community, as soon as they can begin play. Hopefully soon, we’ll know when that will be.
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April 2020 | 17
[ Feature ]
Great Brew and Big Hearts OLD ARMOR BEER TAPS INTO KANNAPOLIS BY KIMBERLY BROUILLETTE
Editor’s Note: When we originally interviewed for this article, public health restrictions due to the COVID-19 virus had not yet been instituted. However, the information contained in this story will still be applicable when these restrictions have been concluded. Below is a statement from one of the Old Armor Beer Company founders, Kyle Lingafelt: “In true military fashion we have adapted and overcome the situation. Though we are unable to utilize our taproom and sell what we do on a weekly basis, we are still able to provide deliveries of our brews and to-go orders. We have also been able to provide Old Armor Beer Bonds at a cost less than the value that can be utilized, once the taproom opens back up. Being the hometown brewery of Kannapolis, we have received a tremendous amount of support from those within Kannapolis and Cabarrus County. This is crucial in the support of our beertenders, who rely on tips. We are resilient, and not only will we weather the storm, we have future plans that will make Kannapolis a destination within the Charlotte region.”
18 | Cabarrus Magazine
[ Feature ]
April 2020 | 19
[ Feature ]
S
ince before the Revolutionary War, Cabarrus County has been a strong supporter of the military and veterans. In addition, local breweries and tap houses are always extremely popular due to their selection of crafted beers with unique flavors, which make them stand out against the mass-produced, store-bought brands. So, it comes as no surprise that there has been such a positive community response to the recent opening of the veteranowned Old Armor Beer Company in downtown Kannapolis. In fact, this new addition to the redeveloped area is the first 100% veteran-owned brewery in this entire region. According to Lingafelt, one of the main purposes for starting the brewery was to provide jobs and support for veterans, who may have difficulty in transitioning into civilian life. Currently, the brewery employs approximately 20 people, including
5 veterans. In the near future, they intend on hosting regular events, including veteran support and casual job networking gatherings and workshops. The three unlikely business partners, Kyle Lingafelt, Dick Bradley and Stefan Perrine, actually met while enrolled in a veteran-focused, graduate business degree program at the University of Southern California. Lingafelt, who served in the U.S. Marines Corp, was the only Concord native of the group. Bradley, also a former Marine, is a long-time resident of California, while Perrine formerly served in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne and is a transplant from Southern New Jersey. The three became friends quickly, going to football games and hanging out together regularly. As a hobby, they even created their own brew to take to football tailgate parties, which they named “O’ Dark Thirty,”
after a military term for the period between midnight and dawn. While reflecting on their graduate school days, Lingafelt jokes that their fellow students were very complimentary about the flavor, saying that the trio’s beer was much better than anything else they’d tasted. They were even encouraged to pursue developing their own brand. As the trio continued through their coursework, they became more intrigued with the idea. They decided to focus their graduate degree capstone project on starting their own craft brewery, together. The three friends realized, as graduation drew closer, they had completed all of the initial hard work in order to start their own business. It wasn’t long before they became serious about the new venture and began scouting for locations. As they were residing in California at the time, they quickly realized the initial costs and
Once the COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, Old Armor Brewing looks forward to being the place to mingle in downtown Kannapolis.
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[ Feature ] restrictions there would be prohibitive. It was then they started considering other places outside of the state. Immediately, they turned to doing research on Lingafelt’s hometown of Concord, NC as a more likely candidate. However, Concord already had several established breweries that were finding success. They decided to search for a nearby location. Kannapolis, NC soon emerged as a better prospect Unlike Concord, Kannapolis did not have any existing local tap houses or breweries as competition. In addition, with the new downtown development, including a planned retail business district, new ballpark and apartment complex, all under construction, the timing seemed to be perfect. When the trio approached the developers for the City of Kannapolis, they were greeted with enthusiasm. According to Annette Privette, communications director for the City of Kannapolis, an excitement quickly grew as the plan was discussed with Kannapolis City Planner Mike Legg and others. Many leaders in the community desired to help the new business owners through the process of finding the perfect location and working with them to acquire the permits necessary to begin their operation. The partners finally decided to establish their brewery at 211 West Avenue, in the area formerly known as Cannon Village. The 18,000 sq. ft. building is perfectly situated directly across the street from the Cannon Ballers’ office and team store, and within walking distance of the new stadium. The brewery currently occupies a 6,300 sq. ft. portion of the building with a 350 occupancy capacity. Once finished, the entire area will eventually contain a variety of retail businesses, plus a new apartment complex that will house 200 units, and eventually a hotel and performing arts center. After the adjacent apartment complex has completed construction, they intend on creating a 3000 sq.
ft. beer garden. In the foreseeable future, they plan on expanding their facility to include the 6,300 sq. ft. basement. To allow for overflow and event space to bring in bands, as well as have networking and other events, they will be adding a 3,500 sq. ft. located next door also. At this time, over 1000 free parking spaces are close by to make for easy access. In fact, the new brewery is
already completely surrounded by many residential neighborhoods that contain likely patrons. The brewery’s founders have been working closely with city developers to draw a wide selection of businesses that will complement each other, rather than be strong competitors. If all goes well, they anticipate several restaurants, boutiques, retail shops, a hair salon,
Kannapolis is a city on the rise, making it an ideal place to start or move a business. Find out more at kannapolisnc.gov.
April 2020 | 21
[ Feature ]
Games of corn hole are prone to break out in the shadow of the craft beer being brewed at Old Armor Brewing.
a barber, as well as another brewery located there. As of the publishing of this article, a release of the sooncoming businesses was not available, however the initial list is anticipated to be available soon from the City of Kannapolis development team. After final construction renovations and up-fitting, the Old Armor Beer Company held a soft opening on December 21, 2019 for community leaders, employee family members and close friends at their new facilities. It began official operation on the following day. A grand opening celebration for the public was held from March 14-16, just prior to the COVID-19 restrictions laid out by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) were put in place. 22 | Cabarrus Magazine
Over 15,000 people attended the 3-day event. Old Armor’s selection already includes almost 20 different beers ranging from lighter to stout recipes. However, some of the most impressive ones are their “charitable” beers. This is not only due to the fact those recipes are hand-crafted with a specific, deserving group in mind, but a portion of the proceeds are designated for a related charity. Their first version, the “Red Line Ale,” was developed with feedback from local firefighters, with the designated charity names as the Firefighters’ Burned Children Fund. Currently, a “Blue Line Ale” is being created to represent the police department. They are still in the process of determining the chosen
appropriate charity that they wish to help. Additional lines will benefit military veteran charities and other notable services. To show their appreciation for veterans and first responders, they also offer a “pay it forward” board, where patrons can buy a beer in advance for others. This program gained national and international attention when the founders appeared on the talk show, “Fox & Friends,” to discuss their military-themed beers. Longdistant patrons from as far away as Africa called in to purchase “pay it forward” vouchers. In spite of the recent COVID-19 emergency crisis, the new brewery has seen initial success and continues to do strong business. In order to support their “beertenders,” as they have been affectionately named, the company has already sold over 100 “Old Armor Liberty Beer Bonds,” which patrons can purchase for $20 to redeem later for $30 of beer, once the taproom is re-opened to the public. (Contact brewery for details.) Even with the restrictions in effect, patrons don’t have to go without their local brew. Crowlers (32oz), as well as 1/6 kegs, are available for purchase at the door. They request customers call in orders in advance, or come to the side entrance to place orders in person. Until further notice, their hours will be Monday through Sunday, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Visit their website, oldarmor.com, or their Facebook page for more details. From the beginning, Lingafelt, Bradley and Perrine have used a tactical approach in founding the Old Armor Beer Company. Their military experience has come in handy to help them divide and conquer any challenges that they faced while in the armed services, as well as now. However, their love for brewing and desire to help others has made this new venture much more than a business — it’s becoming a heart of the community.
[ Breaking Bread ]
An Outdoor Brunch
Eggs Benedict Casserole INGREDIENTS • 6 cups French bread, cut into cubes • 12 large eggs • 1 1/2 cups milk • 3 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped • 1 teaspoon salt • 2 1/2 teaspoons hot sauce, divided • 12 ounces Canadian bacon, chopped • 1 (9-ounce) package Hollandaise sauce DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350° F. 2. Place French bread cubes in 8-cup shallow casserole dish. Beat eggs, milk, chives, salt and 2 teaspoons Tabasco sauce in large bowl; stir in Canadian bacon. Pour over bread cubes. Let mixture stand 5 minutes. Bake 40 minutes or until mixture is puffed and set. 3. Meanwhile, prepare Hollandaise sauce as package directs. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of Tabasco sauce. Keep warm until ready to use. 4. Serve casserole with warm Hollandaise sauce.
Here’s a list of other items to consider when preparing for your outdoor brunch: Angelic Eggs - Take hard-boil eggs, remove the yolks and combine with mayonnaise, chopped salmon, dill, hot sauce and salt; then refill the egg whites and serve. Dog-Day Fruit Salad - Combine your favorite fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, with orange juice, orange peel, and honey. Classic Bloody Mary - Combine tomato juice, vodka, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice and hot sauce; stir, and pour over ice. Garnish with a celery stalk.
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[ On the Go ]
WHAT’S NEW IN CABARRUS COUNTY
RCCC Welding Program Receives National Recognition, Continues To Grow
T
he Rowan-Cabarrus Community College (RCCC) welding program produced its first graduating class when the institution opened in 1963. Since then, both the program and the college itself have been committed to changing with the times to meet the needs of the job market and industry. Today’s welding students, and the opportunities available to them look different than ever before with a resurgence of interest in trade jobs that are in high demand and pay well. More women are entering the field, and welding processes now incorporate advanced technology. “We are experiencing a strong increase in interest in welding as a career,” said Rowan-Cabarrus Welding Program Chair Brandon Hoffner, who is a 2005 graduate of the RowanCabarrus program. “It’s a lost art that is coming back. The need is there, and people are realizing it.”
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Rowan-Cabarrus was one of only eight national recipients of the 2019 Welding Workforce Grant from the American Welding Society, which provided $25,000 that the College used to purchase high-tech virtual welding equipment. As technology enters the industry, upgrades are needed to educate students to perform 21st century jobs. The welding department also has met the requirements to be a Lincoln Electric certified LEEPS program and offers NC3 certification through the National Coalition of Certification Centers. “Our program is not about sitting in a welding booth for three or four hours to get a grade on something,” Hoffner said. “This is about giving our students practical knowledge and hands-on training to prepare them for a good job. Our biggest problem right now is that we need more space to develop and expand the curriculum. Welding technology
[ On the Go ]
“Being a female in a male-dominated field is very different from what I expected – I thought I would have a hard time feeling like a part of the team, but that is not the case.” —Lori Safrit is changing at a fast pace, with computerized equipment and robotics. It takes the latest equipment to train the best graduates.” Welding enrollment spiked when Pillowtex suddenly shut down operations in 2003. It has continued to increase as trade job openings have become more plentiful and more lucrative. The Rowan-Cabarrus program features classroom and lab instruction, including three levels of gas tungsten arc welding, three levels of shielded metal arc welding, mig plate welding and orbital welding, with plans to incorporate flux cored arc welding, a process which is in high demand. In addition to the welding facilities on the RCCC North Campus in Salisbury, A.L. Brown High School in Kannapolis has partnered with the college for the past four years to offer welding stations on its campus. Students who take welding courses there are considered part-time RowanCabarrus students in the Career & College Promise dual enrollment program, and receive college credits for course completion. The college regularly hosts welding department open houses, giving high school students from across Rowan and Cabarrus counties a chance to learn about welding careers and get a handson feel for the process. “Welding jobs can pay more than $100,000 a year, depending on the type of work you’re doing and where you’re located,” Hoffner said, adding that many Rowan-Cabarrus welding graduates work locally at manufacturing plants, NASCAR shops and fabrication shops. Others have landed jobs across the country. “We
have a good track record of sending businesses well-trained workers.” The American Welding Society predicts that by 2024, 400,000 jobs will be available in the United States for qualified welders. “Our thriving, diverse welding program is a great example of our commitment to preparing our citizens for sustainable careers and contributing to the region’s workforce needs and economic development,” said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of RowanCabarrus. “Nothing is more important to us than imparting the skills that help people change their lives for the better.” After her husband passed away in April of 2003 and she was laid off from her job at Pillowtex the following June, Lori Safrit wasn’t sure where to turn. However, she knew she needed a good job to continue to pay the bills to take care of her three young daughters. She turned to Rowan-Cabarrus Community College for a new career, after having worked only in textiles and the food industry and decided to earn her degree in welding. Today, she is a full-time welding instructor at the college, and is seeing more women following her lead. “I wanted to show my daughters that, through perseverance and hard work, you can make it in life,” Safrit said. “I know my job is worthwhile when I get students with the fire and passion to be good welders. I enjoy teaching all students, but I have to admit I love it when I get females in my classes. They make really good welders and are very detail-oriented.” Grace Peters is one of those female students. Since she loves to work with her hands and knew that a desk job was not for her, she decided to pursue an associate degree in welding at Rowan-
Cabarrus, since it is close to her China Grove home and offers many clubs and extracurricular opportunities. This year, she was one of seven students selected for the prestigious Ambassadors program, in which she serves as an official representative of Rowan-Cabarrus both on campus and in the community. “Being a female in a male-dominated field is very different from what I expected – I thought I would have a hard time feeling like a part of the team, but that is not the case,” Peters said. “The program has been nothing less than accepting and helpful.” “I had never welded before entering Rowan-Cabarrus and honestly didn’t know the first thing about it,” she said. “Now, I know how to weld in many forms. I would like to get a job in a fabrication shop, and eventually, own my own business. I am happy and excited for what is to come.”
Concord Custodian is a Finalist in $35K Nationwide Contest From creating a working kitchen for special needs children to using their own money to buy necessities for students, the top 10 finalists in the 2020 Custodian of the Year contest go above and beyond. Hosted by Cintas Corporation, the Custodian of the Year contest shines a spotlight on the extraordinary yet often invisible heroes who contribute more than cleanliness to their schools. This year, there is a nominee from Concord, NC, Terelle Campbell. April 2020 | 25
[ On the Go ]
“This contest shows just how important custodians are to their schools and communities.” —Christiny Betsch, Marketing Manager, Cintas At Beverly Hills STEM Elementary, Campbell is considered a “kind-hearted saint who is full of light, love and compassion. From thoroughly cleaning each area of the building to checking up on students to make sure they’re on track and following directions during classes, Ms. Campbell exceeds expectations to provide a welcoming and safe environment for students each day. For many students and staff, Ms. Campbell is a role model and offers her heart to anyone in
need. Each morning before school, Campbell braids the hair of a young girl to ensure she’s feeling her best for the day. The bright and cheerful Campbell completes her job with enthusiasm and grace. She loves and is loved by every and staff member (of the school), according to a press release. Campbell joins nine other finalists from across the nation. The winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize along with $5,000 in products and services for his or her school from Cintas and Rubbermaid Commercial Products. The winner’s school will also receive a comprehensive training and development package from ISSA, The Worldwide Cleaning Industry Association, valued at $20,000. A cash prize of $1,000 each and free tuition to one ISSA Cleaning Management Institute (CMI) training event, valued at $1,500, will be awarded to the remaining nine finalists.
“This contest shows just how important custodians are to their schools and communities,” said Christiny Betsch, marketing manager, Cintas. “The number of heartfelt stories we received made it almost impossible to narrow down the top 10 finalists. These 10 finalists have hearts of gold, and we’re honored to share their stories with the public.” The greatest number of public votes determines the winner of the 2020 Custodian of the Year contest. “It was difficult narrowing down thousands of stories to 10 finalists,” said John Barrett, Executive Director, ISSA. “Each custodian has their own unique story, showcasing their astonishing commitment and dedication, which is why these finalists are so worthy of recognition.” Now through April 17, the public is encouraged to vote for their favorite custodian at custodianoftheyear.com.
Cabarrus abarrus Magazine Magazine WouldWould Like Like to Thank o Thank its its Community ommunity Sponsors! ponsors!
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[ Business Resources ]
At a Glance Automotive Sales
Municipalities
Photographers
Ben Mynatt Family of Dealerships .......17 289 Concord Pkwy., S. Concord, NC 28027 704-323-6265 www.benmynatt.com
City of Kannapolis ................................. 21 401 Laureate Way Kannapolis, NC 28081 www.kannapolisnc.gov
Michael A. Anderson Photography .... 23 38 Union St. S. Concord, NC 28025 704-701-5908 www.michael-a-anderson.com
Commercial & Residential Glass Service Kannapolis Glass & Glazing ................... 2 202 S. Ridge. Ave. Kannapolis, NC 28083 704-938-5613 www.kannapolisglass.com
Community Initiatives Walk Cabarrus .......................................... 3 www.walkcabarrus.com
Funeral Homes Wilkinson Funeral Home ...................... 21 100 Branchview Dr. NE Concord, NC 28025 704-786-3168 www.wilkinsonfuneralhome.com
Graphic Design/Layout Spark Publications ................................... 4 2116 Crowne Center Dr., Ste. 300 Charlotte, NC 28227 704-844-6080 www.sparkpublications.com
Cabarrus Rowan Community Health Centers ......................................... 2 • 202D McGill Ave. NW Concord, NC 28025 704-792-2297 • 308 E Centerview St China Grove, NC 28023 704-855-5200 • 298 Lincoln St, SW Concord, NC 28025 704-792-2313 • 300 N Salisbury Ave Spencer, NC 28159 704-216-2630 Plus, three new locations in Salisbury and China Grove! www.crchc.org
Print & Technology Services Modern Impressions ............................... 9 5029 West W.T. Harris Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28269 800-840-2554. www.modernimpressions.com
Theaters Old Courthouse Theatre ......................... 2 49 Spring St., NW Concord, NC 28025 704-788-2405 www.octconcord.com
Pharmacies/Medications Cannon Pharmacies ............................... 13 Multiple locations in Concord and Kannapolis www.cannonpharmacies.com
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