Images Davidson County, NC: 2012

Drifting Through History

Blueway plan attracts paddling enthusiasts

naTional acclaim County earns top spot for attracting business

sponsoreD by THe lexingTon area cHamber of commerce anD THe THomasville area cHamber of commerce

2012 | imagesDaviDsoncounTy.com

DaviDson counTy, norTH carolina

®

www.thomasvillemedicalcenter.org

imagesdavidsonCount y.Com 3

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all or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

Please recycle this magazine

on THe cover A kayaker paddles the Yadkin River in Lexington. Photo by Todd Bennett

dePartments

6 almanac

22 biz briefs

27 chamber report

29 economic profile

30 image gallery

36 local flavor

38 arts & culture

40 education

42 Health & Wellness

44 sports & recreation

47 community profile

48 Through the lens

2012 eDiTion | volume 10


®

contents

Features

10 DrifTing THrougH HisToryBlueway plan attracts paddling enthusiasts

14 celebraTing DiversiTyDavidson County citizens focus on creating and maintaining a unified, inclusive community

18 naTional acclaimCounty earns top spot for attracting business

10

48

anniversaryissue

10th

4 davidson Count y


®

eDiTorial projecT manager miTCh KLine

conTenT DirecTor LisA BATTLes

proofreaDing manager RAven PeTTY

conTenT coorDinaTor JessiCA WALKeR

sTaff WriTer Kevin LiTWin

copy eDiTor JiLL WYATT

conTribuTing WriTers GARY CARTeR, JuLiAnnA eDmonDs, John FuLLeR,

CARoL sTuART, TiFFAnY L. WiLLiAms

senior grapHic Designers LAuRA GALLAGheR, JAnine mARYLAnD, KRis sexTon, viKKi WiLLiAms

grapHic Designers RAChAeL GeRRinGeR, TAYLoR nunLeY

senior pHoTograpHers JeFF ADKins, BRiAn mcCoRD

sTaff pHoTograpHers ToDD BenneTT, AnTonY BoshieR

color imaging TecHnician ALison hunTeR

inTegraTeD meDia manager JAReD LAne

aD proDucTion manager KATie miDDenDoRF

aD Traffic assisTanTs KRYsTin Lemmon, PATRiCiA moisAn

cHairman GReG ThuRmAn

presiDenT/publisHer BoB sChWARTzmAn

execuTive vice presiDenT RAY LAnGen

senior v.p./sales ToDD PoTTeR

senior v.p./operaTions CAseY hesTeR

senior v.p./clienT DevelopmenT JeFF heeFneR

senior v.p./business DevelopmenT sCoTT TemPLeTon

senior v.p./agribusiness publisHing Kim hoLmBeRG

v.p./business DevelopmenT ChARLes FiTzGiBBon

v.p./exTernal communicaTions TeRee CARuTheRs

v.p./visual conTenT mARK FoResTeR

v.p./conTenT operaTions nATAshA LoRens

v.p./Travel publisHing susAn ChAPPeLL

v.p./sales heRB hARPeR, JAReK sWeKosKY

conTroller ChRis DuDLeY

senior accounTanT LisA oWens

accounTs payable coorDinaTor mARiA mcFARLAnD

accounTs receivable coorDinaTor DiAnA GuzmAn

sales supporT coorDinaTor ALex mARKs

sales supporT projecT manager sARA quinT

sysTem aDminisTraTor DAnieL CAnTReLL

Web creaTive DirecTor ALLison DAvis

Web conTenT manager John hooD

Web projecT manager noY FonGnALY

Web Designer ii RiChARD sTevens

Web DevelopmenT leaD YAmeL hALL

Web Developer i neLs noseWoRThY

Web accounT manager LAuRen euBAnK

pHoTograpHy DirecTor JeFFReY s. oTTo

meDia TecHnology DirecTor ChRisTinA CARDen

publicaTion Design DirecTor muRRY KeiTh

meDia TecHnology analysTs BeCCA ARY, ChAnDRA BRADshAW

auDience DevelopmenT DirecTor DeAnnA neLson

markeTing creaTive DirecTor KeiTh hARRis

DisTribuTion DirecTor GARY smiTh

execuTive secreTary KRisTY DunCAn

Human resources manager PeGGY BLAKe

recepTionisT LinDA BishoP

Images Davidson County is published annually by Journal Communications inc. and is distributed through

the Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce, the Thomasville Area Chamber of Commerce

and its member businesses. For advertising information or to direct questions

or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications inc. at (615) 771-0080

or by email at [email protected].

for more informaTion, conTacT:Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce16 e. Center st. • Lexington, nC 27293

Phone: (336) 248-5929 • Fax: (336) 248-2161 www.lexingtonchamber.net

Thomasville Area Chamber of Commerce6 W. main st. • Thomasville, nC 27361

Phone: (336) 475-6134 • Fax: (336) 475-4802 www.thomasvillechamber.net

visiT Images DavIDson County online aT imagesDaviDsoncounTy.com

©Copyright 2011 Journal Communications inc., 725 Cool springs Blvd., suite 400, Franklin, Tn 37067,

(615) 771-0080. All rights reserved. no portion of this magazine may be reproduced

in whole or in part without written consent.

member The Association of magazine media

member Custom Content Council

member Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce

member Thomasville Area Chamber of Commerce

Digital Edition

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®

The history of Davidson County is linked intimately to the ageless presence of the Yadkin River, along whose banks Native

Americans camped more than 12,000 years ago. The river’s importance as a trading route was well-established even before the first European settlers traveled it in the early 1700s, and legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone lived along its banks. Later, mills and manufacturing facilities capitalized on the river’s energy, with a dam project forming High Rock Lake, the second-largest in North Carolina.

Today, the river’s f low is harnessed

less for trade and more for recreation, as the Yadkin has become a favorite avenue for paddlers, who enjoy its smooth serenity and the lake’s broad surface in canoes, kayaks and even trendy paddle boards. And, with both the river and lake long renowned for their finned residents, kayak fishing has become a fast-growing activity, while paddlers also revel in the wildlife and forests found along the river.

Pristine Natural Setting“The Yadkin River is a beautiful

natural setting and an often overlooked asset,” says William Deal, executive

STORY BY GARY CARTER

History

Pierce Ford of High Point enters Boone’s Cave. Left: A kayaker paddles the Yadkin River near Boone’s Cave Park in Lexington.

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10 DAVIDSON COUNT Y IMAGESDAVIDSONCOUNT Y.COM 11

blueWay plan Harnesses yaDkin river’s naTural beauTy anD lore To aTTracT paDDling enTHusiasTs

HistoryThrough

Drifting

10 davidson Count y imagesdavidsonCount y.Com 11

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.lexingtonchamber.net

http://www.thomasvillechamber.net

4 davidson Count y

Visually explore Davidson County in our online photo galleries

Flip through the pages of this magazine and easily share articles using Facebook, Twitter or email.

PhOtOS

diGitaL MaGazine

Drifting Through History

Blueway plan attracts paddling enthusiasts

naTional acclaim County earns top spot for attracting business

sponsoreD by THe lexingTon area cHamber of commerce anD THe THomasville area cHamber of commerce

2012 | imagesDaviDsoncounTy.com


®

factS Get the most up-to-date info on cost of living, top employers, schools, population demographics and more

LiVinG hereLearn the basics about local neighborhoods, schools and health care providers

VideOGet a moving glimpse at favorite local places and attractions

What’s online imagesdavidsoncounty.com


Welcome to Davidson Countyan introduCtion to the area’s people, plaCes and events

Remembering the nation’s heroes

The north Carolina memorial Day Parade and Ceremony has become one of the biggest

memorial Day events in the south. each year, the town of Thomasville holds this daylong celebration to honor the men and women who have fought for the nation. it begins at the vietnam veteran’s memorial with a wreath-laying ceremony and continues at memorial Park. event-goers can enjoy a parade featuring large military vehicles and equipment, patriotic songs and performances, a keynote speaker and a 21-gun salute.

Pictures of Thomasville’s Past

murals in Thomasville are both beautiful to behold

and a preservation of the city’s memories. six murals

around downtown Thomasville give locals and tourists

alike a glimpse into the city’s past. one at the corner of

main and Trade streets depicts the old railroad, historic

depot and long-burned-down mock hotel. The east

main mural shows scenes from the mills home Campus

of Baptist Children’s homes of north Carolina. murals

are also located on Commerce and Randolph streets

and at the entrance of Cates Alley. no matter which

you visit, you’re sure to witness a piece of Thomasville’s

treasured history.

Camp for Kids and moreRock climbing, canoeing, swimming, hiking and fishing are only a few of the activities

kids can enjoy at Camp Walter Johnson. The camp is situated near Denton and is open

from mid-June to August. it welcomes kids every year from around the Carolinas.

Run by the salvation Army, it has been changing the lives of children since 1974,

and is now emerging as a place for business retreats and conferences. For more

information, visit www.campwj.com.

6 davidson Count y

PhoTo CouRTesY oF RoGeR G. BRYAnT

http://www.campwj.com


Journey Through Timenative American history is honored in

Davidson County. Just visit the vastly popular exhibit A Shadow Passes: The Native American Peoples of the Yadkin Valley at the Davidson County historical museum. With almost 200 artifacts on display, one can journey through time and discover the 12,000-year-old presence of native American people who once lived in north Carolina’s Yadkin River valley. A first-floor gallery features an archeology display, complete with a simulated dig. on the second floor, a courtroom exhibit traces native American presence through the Paleo-indian, Archaic and Woodland cultural periods. it also features an original mural and diorama of a native American village by local artist Chip holton.

Barbecue Cook-offThere’s only one place in the world to find Lexington-style barbecue

and that’s Lexington, n.C. here they’re known for slow-cooking pork

shoulders over hickory wood, giving their ‘cue a distinct taste all its

own. Known as the barbecue capital of the country, Lexington is also

home to the Capital City Cook-off. This new, annual event pits teams

against one another in four areas of barbecue (brisket, ribs, pork

shoulders, chicken), and is a way for people across the nation to show

off their best barbecue and win prizes. Participants and visitors can

enjoy good food, good music and a good time for the whole family.

The 2012 event will take place April 27 and 28.

Fast Factsn thomasville’s Big Chair, a symbol of the area’s rich history of furniture making, rises 18 feet from its base.

n high rock lake covers 15,000 acres and has been host to the Bassmaster Classic fishing competition four times.

n the old davidson County Courthouse now serves as the County’s historical museum.

n Boone’s Cave park features devil’s den, a cave along the yadkin river where daniel Boone reportedly hid from american indian marauders.

n pga golfer Bubba Watson and his wife angie own a summer home at high rock lake and enjoy living in davidson County.

Almanac


Lexingtonmade the list.Top 10 Food FestivalsSee more Top 10 lists at Livability.com.

InternatIonaL BIscuIt FestIvaL Knoxville, tn

LoaF ‘n Jug chILe & FrIJoLes FestIvaL Pueblo, co

DuDIe Burger FestIvaL tupelo, Ms

rc anD MoonPIe FestIvaL shelbyville, tn

BarBecue FestIvaL Lexington, nc

haPPy harry’s rIBFest Fargo, nD

souL FooD cooK-oFF Muskogee, oK

gIngerBreaD house FestIvaL Provo, ut

oregon truFFLe FestIvaL eugene, or

toMato FestIvaL newark, oh

top 10 Food Festivals

Introducing the Livability.com Top 10 Lists New lists every month | Not your average lists | Not your average website

livability.com


Lexingtonmade the list.Top 10 Food FestivalsSee more Top 10 lists at Livability.com.

Almanac

skate at Doak sk8te Parkat the doak sk8te park there’s always time for fun.

located off main street in thomasville, this former tennis court now includes a 3-foot mini ramp, 3-foot quarter pipe, two 5-foot quarter pipes, a pyramid with a 10-foot rail, 16-inch-tall flat bar rail and a 12-foot kink rail that declines from 28 to 10 inches. through fundraisers and donations, including a grant from professional skater tony hawk’s foundation and the help of youth skate boarders, this park has given skaters a place to practice their skills and have fun. skaters can skate for free but must first sign a waiver and obtain a permit from the parks and recreation office. For more information, call the office at (336) 475-4280.

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DentonHigh Rock Lake

Uwharrie National Forest

Welcome

LexingtonThomasville

Greensborons oGGWinston-SalemnsssWinWinston-SalaleW

High Pointh PPoPPPP

DAVIDSON

populaTion (2010 esTimaTe)Davidson County: 162,930

Lexington: 18,931

Thomasville: 26,757

locaTionDavidson County is in north Carolina’s

Piedmont Triad region, an equal distance

between Charlotte and Raleigh.

beginningsDavidson County was founded in

1822 and named for Revolutionary

War hero Gen. William Lee Davidson.

for more informaTionThomasville Area

Chamber of Commerce

941 Randolph st.

Thomasville, nC 27360

Phone: (336) 475-6134

Fax: (336) 475-4802

www.thomasvillechamber.net

Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce 16 e. Center st. Lexington, nC 27292 Phone: (336) 248-5929 Fax: (336) 248-2161 www.lexingtonchamber.net

davidson county at a glanceDavidson County

What’s online Take a virtual tour of Davidson County, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imagesdavidsoncounty.com.



blueWay plan Harnesses yaDkin river’s naTural beauTy anD lore To aTTracT paDDling enTHusiasTs

HistoryThrough

Drifting


the history of Davidson County is linked intimately to the ageless presence of the Yadkin River, along whose banks Native

Americans camped more than 12,000 years ago. The river’s importance as a trading route was well-established even before the first European settlers traveled it in the early 1700s, and legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone lived along its banks. Later, mills and manufacturing facilities capitalized on the river’s energy, with a dam project forming High Rock Lake, the second-largest in North Carolina.

Today, the river’s f low is harnessed

less for trade and more for recreation, as the Yadkin has become a favorite avenue for paddlers, who enjoy its smooth serenity and the lake’s broad surface in canoes, kayaks and even trendy paddle boards. And, with both the river and lake long renowned for their finned residents, kayak fishing has become a fast-growing activity, while paddlers also revel in the wildlife and forests found along the river.

pristine natural setting“The Yadkin River is a beautiful

natural setting and an often overlooked asset,” says William Deal, executive

sToRY BY gary carTer

History

pierce Ford of high point enters Boone’s Cave. left: a kayaker paddles the yadkin river near Boone’s Cave park in lexington.

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director of Davidson County Tourism and Recreation Investment Partnership. “There are sections of the river that are pristine, just as they were hundreds of years ago.”

To capitalize on the Yadkin’s scenic and recreational appeal, Davidson County, assisted by the Piedmont Triad Council of Governments, developed a wide-ranging “blueway” plan to develop and enhance recreational access for both visitors and residents along the river’s 22-mile section that runs through Davidson County. By definition, a blueway is a water trail with launch points, public facilities such as campsites and picnic areas, and designated points of interest.

Over time, the objective is to encourage and support more non-motorized water travel on the Yadkin and its tributaries, with access points every 2 to 4 miles. Highlighting the trail will be a series of 8-foot-tall cairns that serve as guideposts for paddlers and also provide cultural and historical information. In addition to significant natural areas, cairns will mark such features as an antebellum plantation house, old ferry crossings and Boone’s Cave, long associated with the famous explorer. The cavern is the centerpiece of a 100-acre park with a large portion designated a Natural Heritage Site that’s home to more than 100 native wildflowers.

paddling equipment availableProviding the original impetus for the development

of the blueway plan was a local group of dedicated paddling enthusiasts, with High Rock Outfitters in Lexington providing commercial support needed to fuel activity through the sales and rentals of equipment. Chris Phelps, owner of the outfitting company, says a primary objective of the blueway project is to increase awareness of the Yadkin River, its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

“Being on the river gives you a completely different perspective than crossing over it, which thousands of people do every day,” Phelps says. “It’s a great way to get back to basics and appreciate the natural beauty we’re so fortunate to have in Davidson County.”

davidson County and the piedmont triad Council of governments has developed a blueway plan to develop and enhance recreational access for visitors and residents along the yadkin river. sTA

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“There are sections of the river

that are pristine, just as they

were hundreds of years ago.”


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Diversity

in 1929, the Davidson County library system became one of the first in the South to provide services to all citizens,

using resources from a special grant to open two branches in the African-American community and also offer monthly bookmobile visits. This early integration effort quietly became a point of pride that carries over into the county’s healthy embrace of cultural and ethnic diversity today.

schools create interactionProviding a key foundation today

are the county’s school systems, which individually and collectively bring together students from a range of backgrounds and set the stage for positive interaction. This approach is clearly reflected in the belief statement of one system: “We believe that diversity is a valuable and vital asset to our school community.”

“The diversity in our schools has become a positive force within the community,” says Ray Howell,

DaviDson counTy ciTizens focus on creaTing anD mainTaining

a unifieD, inclusive communiTy

sToRY BY gary carTer

CeleBrating

left: ray howell, a local minister and author of a history of davidson County right: students in class at thomasville primary schoolP

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a local minister and author of a history of Davidson County. “What the schools do very well is affirm the various cultures and backgrounds, but focus on unity and working together.”

From a historical perspective, Howell also credits local officials for dealing directly and quickly with issues as they’ve arisen over the years, particularly the complexities of integration during the 1960s. He also notes the ever-broadening ethnicity of the community that has resulted in more interaction in the workplace and throughout the area. Local churches are credited with creating and maintaining support for outreach and unification.

multicultural festivals promote unity

The county’s diversity is plainly visible at the popular Multicultural

Festival organized by the Lexington Recreation and Parks Department each May. Dedicated to the promotion of understanding and tolerance, the festival features five individual “villages” that showcase the historic and cultural heritage of the county’s African-American, Asian, European, Latino and Native American citizens. Thousands come out each year to experience the history, dance, music, cuisine and art showcased within the villages.

celebration Honors Dr. kingAnother outstanding example of

the county’s diversity is the annual nine-day, multi-event celebration of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, which includes a parade, invitational dance concert and oratorical contest for area high school students. Based on the teachings of Dr. King, the various

events scattered around the county offer opportunities for education and discussion, and also actively “promote the talents and gifts of local artists and performers of all races.”

Howell says the growth of such activities is proof of ongoing progress.

“The entire concept of these festivals is consistent with life in our community,” he says. “It says let’s celebrate our distinctions, but let’s focus on how we can work together.”

Dr. George Jackson, founder of the King event, echoes his opinion.

“The stepping stones have been laid, and we have a good foundation we’re building on throughout Davidson County,” Jackson says. “We’re making steady strides toward being a diverse, inclusive community.”

left to right: davidson County holds an annual celebration of dr. martin luther King, Jr.; lexington’s multicultural Festival; davidson County public library in lexington

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“We believe that diversity is a valuable

and vital asset to our school community.”

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BusinessBusiness

imagesdavidsonCount y.Com 19 18 davidson Count y

transitioning the economy has proven to be big business for Davidson County.

The Lexington-Thomasville market ranks first among all U.S. “micropolitan” areas in total corporate real estate deals for 2010, according to Site Selection magazine. There are 576 micropolitan areas, communities where the largest city is less than 50,000 residents.

The Davidson County Economic Development Commission, partnering with state and local officials, successfully attracted 26 new facility projects in 2010, which translated into $400 million in capital investment and 1,933 jobs for the area. This is a welcome development for county residents, who have struggled in the aftermath of the furniture industry downsizing the past several years.

“We have been very aggressive when it comes to business

recruitment,” says Steve Googe, executive director of the Davidson County EDC. “We have principally gone after small to medium-size projects and have enjoyed some success.”

Googe says one of the major ingredients for success is the emphasis on personal contact with prospective clients.

“We like to look people in the eye to get a better understanding of their requirements,” he says.

Davidson county attracts Diverse client base

Among the most successful projects in 2010 was TIMCO Aviation Services’ decision to invest $5 million in a manufacturing plant in Wallburg. Development officials were able to find a building well-suited for the company’s growing needs. The interior-furnishings unit of TIMCO announced that it will hire

500 workers over seven years, including 191 in the first year of operations, for the plant, where it will design and make lightweight seating, galleys and lavatories for passenger aircraft.

The expansion will be aided in part by the State of North Carolina, North Carolina Community Colleges, Davidson County and the Town of Wallburg.

“Our decision to locate our expansion in North Carolina was made easier by the incredible partnership of state and local officials who have joined with us on the investment to grow the business and add new jobs to the community,” says Kevin Carter, Co-CEO of TIMCO.

With its ideal location between major interstate highways, distribution companies have been a logical target for county officials. Early in 2011, Save-A-Lot, one of the nation’s leading grocery chains,

DaviDson counTy earns Top spoT among small markeTs for aTTracTing business

sToRY BY joHn fuller | PhoToGRAPhY BY ToDD benneTT

Business

national

Acclaim

sun edison built a $173 million solar farm just outside of lexington.


Internet Access

Toddler/Preschool Bedtime Storytimes

Genealogy/ Local History

Reference and Information

DVDs

Compact Discs

Ongoing Used Book Sales

Meeting/Conference Room Facilities

Over 80 Years of Service as North Carolina’s Oldest County Public Library

“The Very Best Place to Start for Learning and Discovery”

Six Locations

Lexington (242-2040)

North Davidson (242-2050)

Denton (859-2215)

www.co.davidson.nc.us/library

West Davidson (853-4800)

Thomasville (474-2690)

Historic Museum@Courthouse Square (242-2035)

catalog: library.co.davidson.nc.us

North Carolina Digital LibraryAudio BooksReader’s AdvisoryColor Copier/ScannerNC LIVE Young Adult ProgramsWord Processing ApplicationsYoung Patron’s Summer Reading ProgramComputer Games for ChildrenFax Service

Davidson County Public Library& Historical Museum

Quality on tapYadkin River near our water treatment facility.

Davidson Water Inc.Serving rural water needs for over 40 years

www.davidsonwater.com

Lexington (336) 731-2341

Thomasville (336) 475-8229

Winston-Salem (336) 764-2534

Water Plant (336) 787-5800


http://www.co.davidson.nc.us/library

http://www.davidsonwater.com

www.PARTnc.org

library.co.davidson.nc.us

Business

announced a $24 million investment in a 328,000-square-foot food distribution center, employing 42 workers in Lexington. The distribution center will serve 77 stores in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia. Officials of St. Louis-based Save-A-Lot said they chose the Lexington location because of its excellent business climate, central location and industrious workforce.

“As we see some legacy industries exit the region, it is exciting to see other industries look at us with potential for distribution,” Googe says.

furniture industry still strong in lexington-Thomasville area

While some diversification of industries is occurring, furniture makers still represent a substantial portion of the Davidson County economy. United Furniture Industries, a residential upholstered-furniture maker, has opened a facility in Lexington, where it created 397 jobs and invested more than $3 million.

United officials said Davidson County and Lexington were chosen because of the availability of existing facilities, its knowledgeable furniture-industry workforce, and the cooperation of state and local officials.

As part of an acquisition, Windstream Communications, a leading telecommunications provider, made a $141 million, 100-job investment in the

community. Other major investments in 2010 in Davidson County included a $173 million solar farm built by Sun Edison and a $6 million plant investment in Thomasville by Old Dominion Freight Line, which also is headquartered there. Over the past several years, motor sports teams and related companies have also been a prime focus for Googe and his development team.


www.highpointregional.com

Business

scorecardbusiness aT

a glance

$1.3 billionannual retail sales

$8,101retail sales

per capita

$132 millionannual hotel and

food sales

12,926Total number

of firms

source: u.s. Census QuickFacts

Business

Biz BriefsBusinesses – Both large and small – that help deFine

davidson County’s eConomiC Climate

roeHrig engineering inc.Biz: Automotive testing equipment manufacturerBuzz: The 21 employees of Roehrig Engineering, Inc. in Davidson County manufacture, design and sell automotive testing equipment. This equipment is used by companies in 42 countries, leading racing teams, and national and international car manufacturers, such as Hyundai, BMW and many others.www.roehrigengineering.com


http://www.roehrigengineering.com

sanDycreek farmBiz: Local farmBuzz: SandyCreek Farm in Lexington regularly welcomes visitors to tour its scenic grounds, observe its farming processes, enjoy picnics and use its nature trail. The farm grows a variety of fruits and vegetables, including blackberries, blueberries, pears, muscadine grapes and more than 700 organic Shiitake mushroom logs. Individuals and groups are welcome.www.sandycreekfarm150.com

DaviDson WaTerBiz: Water treatment and supplyBuzz: In 1969, Davidson Water’s production capability was 2 million gallons per day, provided to 2,800 customers. Since then, the facility has grown to boast a production capability of 20 million gallons of water daily, and more than 58,000 customers, making it the largest rural water provider in the U.S. Its growth continues with work on a brand-new water treatment facility.www.davidsonwater.com

THomasville emporiumBiz: Antiques and collectiblesBuzz: Thomasville Emporium offers a diverse selection of antiques and collectibles for customers to browse through as well as a quaint cafe. The antique mall offers booths that can be rented, allowing individuals to sell their own unique items. Currently the Thomasville Emporium is in the process of expanding, adding two sections.www.facebook.com/pages/ Thomasville-Emporium/

laser prinT plusBiz: Laser printing servicesBuzz: Laser Print Plus offers its clients laser printing with fast speed and high-quality printers. The new facility in Thomasville, opened in 2009, has a printing capability of more than 32,000 pages an hour. Typical projects include county tax bills, utility invoices and bank notices and statements.www.laserprintplus.com/main.html

www.thomasvillevet.net

Thomasville Pet Center

712 Brookdale Dr. Thomasville, NC 27360

(336) 476-5080

Thomasville Veterinary

Hospital PA

303 National Hwy. Thomasville, NC 27360

(336) 475-9199

THomAsVille VeT HosPiTAl

• Member of American Animal Hospital Association Since 1990

• Full-Service Veterinary Care

• Well Care and Senior Care

• Dentistry and Grooming

• Orthopedic and Soft Tissue Surgery

• Ultrasound and Endoscopy

• Emergency Critical Care

THomAsVille PeT CeNTeR

• Bathing and Dipping

• Specialty Grooming

• Pet Toys, Supplies and Bedding

• Temperature-Controlled Kennels

• Outdoor Play Area

• Separate Cat Ward

• Premium Diets

emeRGeNCY CRiTiCAl CARe

• Doctors On Call 24/7

• Doctor On Site Every Day Until 2 a.m. for After Hours Emergencies

• Every Day 24-Hour Monitoring of Hospitalized Patients

• Services Available for Everyone

YOUR LINK TO SUCCESS

Recruitment Assistance | Training Services | Pre-employment/Customized Skills Assessment

Entrepreneurial/Small Business Assistance | Disability Services | Rapid Response Services

Online/Electronic Resources & Information | Economic Development Connections

business solution partners

211 W. Colonial Dr. | Thomasville, NC 27630 | 336.474.2655 | davidsoncountyjoblink.org555-A W. Center St. Ext. | Lexington, NC 27293 | 336.242.2970 | davidsonworks.org

DavidsonWorks

Davidson County Community College

North Carolina Employment Security Division

North Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation

joblink business solutions


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North Carolinians depend on the Transco pipeline to provide natural gas to utility companies and power plants across the state. That’s why we’re depending on excavators to notify North Carolina One Call before digging anywhere in the vicinity of our pipeline.

If you should happen to accidentally strike the pipeline, it is important that you contact us immediately. Even minor damage could result in a future leak if not promptly repaired.

Helping Keep Central North Carolina Green One Customer at a Time

1123 Roy Lopp Rd. • Lexington, NC 27292

Our service area includes: Lexington • Thomasville • Wallburg • Clemmons • High Point

Archdale • Trinity • Winston Salem

(336) 249-6630 Let us be at your disposal!

www.stjude.org


Business

chamber reportBoth ChamBers maKe neWs in 2011, more For 2012

The two largest cities in Davidson County are

Lexington and Thomasville, which each have individual chambers of commerce. each chamber made good news in 2011 and will make even more in 2012.

lexington area chamber of commerce

The Lexington Chamber started a push in 2011 – that will continue in 2012 – to attract more students and transitioning workers to train for jobs in the manufacturing sector. many current employees in the manufacturing sector are nearing retirement age, and there is concern those jobs won’t be filled by skilled trade individuals.

“There are high-paying, challenging jobs and many manufacturers would hire qualified people today to fill those jobs,” says Burr sullivan, Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce president and Ceo.

sullivan says Davidson County has enjoyed a strong manufacturing component for the past 75 years. Today’s industry has become so advanced that prospective employees must go through vast training processes in order to be valuable assets to a manufacturer.

“our chamber has identified 236 companies in this county that are affiliated with manufacturing, so we will team up with the Thomasville chamber and Davidson County Community College to kick off a program in 2012 that focuses upon the manufacturing industry and its current needs,” he says. “We want to bring in speakers, organize site visits and showcase how beneficial careers in manufacturing are in the 21st century and beyond.”

Thomasville area chamber of commerce

The Thomasville Chamber relocated in June 2011 to the 1st

impression Business Center on Randolph street. Randolph is the heaviest traveled road in Thomasville and the chamber office is prominently located.

“There are many positives to our new offices, and one of the flashiest aspects is a new digital message sign in front of the building,” says Doug Croft, Thomasville Area Chamber of Commerce president. “it’s easy to read as we promote chamber and community events. even if someone doesn’t stop in our office, we’re able to give them information just by them driving along Randolph.”

The chamber has also compiled an envision 2020 community strategic plan with three areas of emphasis, 10 goals and 32 specific strategies for advancing

the community throughout this decade.

“A high priority is appearance

and image. For example, we want

to turn current under-utilized

manufacturing plants into

viable economic development

properties again,” Croft said.envision 2020 is part of

the chamber’s aggressive Thomasville on The move program, a five-year, $1 million comprehensive initiative to move the community forward.

“At the mid-point of the five-year funding cycle we are already seeing results from our efforts,” Croft said. “in the past 18 months, 35 businesses have expanded, renovated, relocated and invested in our community.”

– Kevin Litwin

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Autism Services

Quality, caring assistance to families through individualized, professional support.

4551 W. Old Hwy. 64 Lexington, NC 27295 (336) 601-1810

www.ablearning.com

Real estate BRokeRageg. Reynolds shoaf, gRI501 E. Center St. Lexington, NC 27292 [email protected]

Property Management Sales & Auctions

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Coltrane & Company, Inc.Real Estate Brokerage & Development

Commercial • Residential • Land Will Build to Suit

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49 S. Talbert Blvd. • Lexington, NC 27292 (336) 249-6304 • Fax: (336) 248-8935

E-mail: [email protected]

Brooks Nash, Agent700 National Hwy. Thomasville, NC 27360-2634 Bus 336-472-5454 Cell 336-880-5570 [email protected]

24 Hour Good Neighbor Service®

State Farm®

Providing Insurance and Financial Services

Home Office, Bloomington, Illinois 61710

(800) 822-0197

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Celebrating 45 Years in Davidson County

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business climaTeDavidson County has long been a leader in furniture manufacturing

and is home to two of the finest furniture manufacturers in the

world – Thomasville Furniture industries and Lexington home Brands.

Companies here also manufacture textile products, chemical

products, electronic connectors, batteries and plastics.

economic profile

Tax sTrucTure

2.00%County sales tax

4.75%state sales tax

6.75%total sales tax

economic resources

davidson County economic development Commission 1087 DCCC Rd.


(336) 243-1900

www.co.davidson.nc.us

davidsonWorks 915 Greensboro st.

Lexington, nC 27292

(336) 242-2065

www.davidsonworks.org

lexington area Chamber of Commerce16 e. Center st.

Lexington, nC 27292

(336) 248-5929

www.lexingtonchamber.net

thomasville area Chamber of Commerce 941 Randolph st.


(336) 475-6134

www.thomasvillechamber.net

Top employers

1,000+ Atrium Windows & Doors

Davidson County schools

500-999 Davidson County

Kimberly Clark Corporation

old Dominion Freight Lines

PPG industries

Wake Forest Baptist health - Lexington medical Center

Wal-mart stores

Thomasville medical Center

250-499 Bank of north Carolina

City of Lexington

City of Thomasville

Davidson County Community College

Food Lion LLC

Jeld-Wen

Leggett & Platt inc

Lexington City schools

Lowes home improvement stores

newBridge Bank

Parkdale mills

Richard Childress Racing enterprises, inc.

shelba Johnson Trucking

Thomasville City schools

Thomasville Furniture industries

united Furniture industries nC, LLC

vita Cost.com

100-249 Asco switch enterprises

Baptist Children’s home of n.C.

BB&T

Brasscraft

Britthaven

Carilion Labs, LLC

C.v. Products

Danthern Filtration

Davidson Water, inc.

Diebold southeast mfg. inc.

energy united

exopack

Finch industries

hughes supply

Lexington home Brands

Lowes millwork

murrow’s Transfer

sTn Cushion

unilin Flooring

united Church homes and services

valendrawers

Whitewood Furniture

Wright of Thomasville

xceldyne Technologies

TransporTaTion

davidson County airport 1673 Aviation Way

Lexington, nC 27292

(336) 956-7774

davidson County transportation 925 n. main st.

Lexington, nC 27292

www.co.davidson.nc.us

piedmont authority for regional transportation 7800 Airport Center Dr.

ste. 102

Greensboro, nC 27409

(336) 662-0002

www.partnc.org


http://www.co.davidson.nc.us

http://www.davidsonworks.org



http://www.co.davidson.nc.us

http://www.partnc.org

An exhibit at the Davidson County Historical Museum in Lexington

Photo by Todd Bennett

30 davidson Count y

image Gallery


Childress Vineyards

Staff Photo

32 davidson Count y

The famous big chair in Thomasville

Photo by Todd Bennett

image Gallery


image Gallery

View of the sunset from The Springs Club House

Staff Photo

34 davidson Count y


There’s no doubt that Davidson

County’s claim to food fame

lies in Lexington, the Barbecue

Capital of the World, but the

many restaurants here are

satisfying all kinds of appetites.

Wake your taste BudsThey say breakfast is not a

meal to miss. maybe that’s why the

sunrise Diner in Thomasville serves

breakfast until 2 p.m. The sunrise

has been in business for 25 years.

While eggs and bacon are always

popular, two of the most requested

items on the menu are the baked

spaghetti and the peta burger.

Another spot that’s always

swinging in the morning (and

the afternoon and nights, too)

is monkeez Brew. This trendy

café in Thomasville opened in

2007. Beyond the fresh and wide

selection of coffee drinks that

friendly baristas serve, there

are sandwiches, pastries and

smoothies. monkeez Brew hosts

live music most saturday nights

and sunday afternoons.

if you’re in Lexington and have

a craving for a cup of joe, don’t

pass by Perfect Blend. Locals say

it’s got the best coffee in town

and also offers lattes, blenders,

smoothies, hot tea and fresh

homemade pastries. They

also have free wi-fi.

BarBecue makes the World go round

many events, social functions

and family plans in Lexington

revolve around barbecue – and

for good reason. The barbecue

is world famous and down right

good. some say it’s addictive.

Colorfully painted fiberglass pigs

are installed around uptown and

the city hosts a huge Barbecue

Festival, celebrating everything

delightful about dip-basted,

smoked, chopped pork barbecue

shoulder – the preparation and

cut of choice here.

in 1983, when world leaders met

in Williamsburg, va., for the 9th G7

summit, they feasted on Lexington

barbecue. And the barbecue they

ate came out of the kitchen of

Lexington Barbecue, also known

as honeymonk’s and Lexington #1.

The staff is composed mainly of

three generations of the monk

Barbecue and BeyondWhile davidson County is Famous For BarBeCue, diners here enJoy a variety oF tastes

Local Flavor


family, which, along with the

comfort food, helps create a

welcoming and homey atmosphere.

The Barbecue Center is not

your typical pork stop. Although

the restaurant specializes in

Lexington’s famous style of

barbecue, it also offers a variety

of diner food, from burgers to

ice cream sundaes and banana

splits. The Barbecue Center offers

a full breakfast menu. Diners can

further indulge their barbecue

cravings with food from smiley’s,

speedy’s, Jimmy’s and smokey

Joe’s. now don’t think Thomasville

is out of the barbecue scene. one

of the most beloved restaurants

here is Tommy’s Barbecue.

Customers rave about the

pork sandwiches, tenderloin

and even the breakfast menu.

more great choicesFrom chicken wings and

pizza to thick steaks and seafood,

your cravings are covered in

Davidson County.

east Coast Wings is taking

Thomasville by storm, offering

75 flavors of wings and huge

sandwich plates. The village

Grill in uptown Lexington attracts

diners from the Greensboro,

salisbury and Winston-salem

areas. Favorite dishes at the Grill

include hand-patted burgers and

grilled hot dogs on split-top buns.

naples italian Grille, also in

uptown Lexington, is a favorite for

those with a hunger for authentic

italian food. The restaurant’s

scallopini and Florentina dishes

are prepared fresh, as are most

of the meals.

Cafe 35, a casual-dining

lunch spot, serves salads, soups,

sandwiches and burgers, but things

get a little fancy on Thursday and

Friday evenings when dinner is

served. The upscale menu includes

items such as 12-ounce strip steaks,

pan-seared tilapia and pot roast.

Another notable sub shop,

mainstreet Pizza and Deli,

is known for its potato soup

and submarine sandwiches.

Lexington UtiLitiesNatural Gas • ElEctric • WatEr rEsourcEs

“Serving Davidson County Since 1904”

HigH Point 476-5074Winston-saLem 722-0075tHomasviLLe 476-5074Lexington 243-2489

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www.lexingtonnc.net

Arts & Culture

from its family-friendly festivals to the collection of historic

sites, stores and concerts, Davidson County gets things going. Residents here enjoy year-round events that keep them entertained, educated and inspired. There’s no shortage of culture.

sWeet sounds oF music

Live music is easy to find in Davidson County, where a number of free concerts, festivals and events bring sweet sounds to the community. one of the newest events is the evening of music in Thomasville, an event held in the fall and sponsored by Thomasville medical Center. Two shows a year are held at Finch Auditorium, where musical talent from across the county come together to perform. Whether it’s the children’s chorus, adult chorus, local musicians or well-known artists, this is truly a Broadway-style event. Among the most popular events is the Third Thursday concert series in Thomasville, which is held once a month from may through september. All concerts in the series are free and open to the public. Another option for music lovers is the once-a-month, Thursday night Alive After Five concert series in Lexington. The parking lot behind Lanier hardware is the sound stage for this series. A slew of other musical events includes sunset sounds at the gazebo in downtown Thomasville, music on the Lawn during uptown Lexington’s summer strolls, and Childress vineyards’ music in the vineyards and Wine Down Thursdays.

culture takes center stagedavidson County oFFers aBundant Cultural opportunities

mother Blues performs at Childress vineyards.

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38 davidson Count y

southern gateWay Wine trail

Davidson County is considered

the southern gateway to the

Yadkin valley Wine Appellation.

There are four vineyards here, all

of which offer free admission, tours

and tastings. Childress vineyards

in Lexington is owned by nAsCAR

team owner Richard Childress

and was named one of America’s

Top 25 Tasting Rooms by

Wine Enthusiast magazine.

The Weathervane Winery, Junius

Lindsay vineyards and native

vines Winery are also located in

Lexington. native vines is the first

native American indian-owned

winery and produces wines with

a focus on apples and blackberries

all grown on-site.

moving on uPA cultural center spot in

Davidson County is uptown

Lexington, which hosts the

community’s largest festival

and events, and is home to more

than 190 retail and professional

businesses. Boutiques and stores

here offer a diverse sampling

of crafts, antiques and clothing.

uptown Lexington includes a

nationally acclaimed historic

district, which is in the midst of

a renovation, and the Davidson

County historical museum.

scattered throughout uptown

and other areas of Lexington is

a collection of colorfully painted

pigs. These works of art were part

of a wildly successful project to

promote uptown Lexington. more

than 65 pigs can be seen on streets

and businesses across the city.

reasons to celeBrateit’s only fitting that one of the

biggest events in Davidson County

is a massive tribute to barbecue.

The Barbecue Festival is held

every october in Lexington.

The event is a festivity-filled

homage to the slow-cooked

style of barbecue Lexington made

famous. other area events include

Thomasville’s everybody’s Day,

the longest running festival in

the state; the southeastern old

Threshers’ Reunion, a popular

five-day antique farm equipment

show; and the Davidson County

Agricultural Fair in Lexington.

– Julianna Edmonds

38 davidson Count y

www.davidsonccc.edu

Davidson County high

school students will

have an alternative, innovative

approach to education and job

preparation with the startup of

the four-county Yadkin valley

Regional Career Academy.

“We are equipping our students

with the skills that will enable them

to succeed in this global economy,”

says Barry sink, co-chair of the

initiative’s steering committee.

“We’re equipping them with

21st-century work skills, things

like teamwork, communication,

creative problem-solving, critical

thinking. We’re equipping them

with entrepreneurial skills, and

we’re equipping them with sTem

science and math skills that are

so desperately needed.”

The career academy, targeted to

open in 2012, will have a fifth-year

option for an associate college

degree, and students could move

on to a four-year university.

Campuses are planned in

Davidson and surry counties.

organizers hope to convert

a deserted big-box store into

a business setting for the south

campus, although it may start

out at a school. The principal’s

office would be “corporate

headquarters,” the library “research

and development,” and the hallway

main street – with no bells.

With state, federal, industry

and private foundation funding,

the school expects to build the

workforce to support growth

industries in the Piedmont

Triad and attract new business.

While some furniture and textile

manufacturing moved off-shore,

advanced manufacturing and

global logistics are among

industries needing skilled

workers, sink says.

it’s almost “a career academy

on steroids” by adding science,

a new dayyadKin valley regional Career aCademy helps shape the Future

above: davidson County Community College right: international student amruta Bhinge (left) from india and vhutshilo malivha, an international student from south africa, study together at davidson County Community College.

education


“We are equipping our students with the skills that

will enable them to succeed in this global economy.”

math and technology skills,

and organizers aren’t aware

of any others that include

entrepreneurship, sink says.

As an example, he says, if a

computer factory moves away,

workers will have skills to move

to another arena of technology

growth – or launch their

own business.

state leaders are eyeing it

as a model to “help invigorate

economies throughout rural north

Carolina,” sink says. There will be

a strong outreach to families with

first-generation college students.

davidson county community college’s green home

Davidson County Community

College is also concentrating on

advanced manufacturing, robotics

and logistics with its students,

and completed a Green home

renovation in 2011 to focus

on sustainability.

“it’s sort of like the buzzword

right now, when we talk about

green and sustainability, but our

students are getting the first-hand

experience so when they do go

out to the job market they can

say in their conversations ‘i’ve

done this,’” says Dr. mary Rittling,

DCCC president.

The two-year college’s

foundation purchased a home

across the street for DCCC to use

new technologies. The school’s

heating, ventilation and air

conditioning program was involved

in choosing energy-efficient

insulation and the hvAC system,

and had input into the architect’s

plans. vendors showcased

products at an open house; the

home is housing three international

students at the commuter college.

– Carol Stuart

Public school districts in davidson county

DaviDson County sChools: 20,507 students, 33 schools, K-12 www.davidson.k12.nc.us

lexington City sChools: 2,950 students, 6 schools, K-12 www.lexcs.org

thomasville City sChools: 2,450 students, 4 schools, K-12 www.tcs.k12.nc.us

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http://www.davidson.k12.nc.us

http://www.lexcs.org

http://www.tcs.k12.nc.us

health & Wellness

While a young, unknown elvis Presley once

packed the Lexington YmCA gym for a

mid-1950s concert, the YmCA facilities in Lexington

and Thomasville are now known as hubs of healthy

fitness, spiritual and social activities.

J. smith young ymca, lexingtonThe gym no longer has the bleachers that seated

4,000, but instead offers two full-size courts for

basketball and volleyball, plus a gymnastics room.

And there’s plenty more to the J. smith Young

YmCA, from a 10-lane bowling center to an indoor

swimming arena named for navy seal Josh harris,

who trained at this Y and was killed in Afghanistan.

A staffed dining facility is used by the community

for civic club and other gatherings, as well as

weddings and receptions. And the Greater

Lexington ministerial Association provides

recorded daily devotionals for the chapel.

Wellness space is divided into a large fitness

room with weights, cardio machines and an aerobics

area for classes, a separate cardio room where

members can escape distractions and a family

workout space. The Y also has racquetball courts.

Although the Y was built in 1949 and last

overhauled in 1992, Lexington Y Ceo Gene Klump

says, “they did it right when they built it.” of 18,000

Lexington residents, about 5,000 belong to the Y.

“We’re sitting right in the middle of the area

downtown churches. The Y seems to be the hub

of all activity for the town,” says Klump, a former

teacher, coach and banker hired in 2011.

The Lexington Y also partners with Wake Forest

Baptist and Lexington medical Center for a Let’s Get

Fit program and separate workout room outfitted

to help obese children. other programs include

youth athletics, an after-school program and

summer camps.

Klump has “story upon story” about how the

Y has helped people back to health. For instance,

get FitymCas in davidson County reaCh out to Community

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above, left to right: a group exercise class at J. smith young ymCa; aquatic aerobics at tom a. Finch Community ymCa; Cardio equipment, including stationary bikes and elliptical trainers, at tom a. Finch Community ymCa


a stroke victim came in a wheelchair but became

able to walk on her own; a deputy sheriff struck by

a vehicle, who suffered a heart attack and stroke,

went from walking only seven-tenths of a mile to

2.6 miles in 45 minutes.

tom a. Finch community ymca, thomasville

The Thomasville YmCA recently renovated its

7,700-square-foot wellness center, which boasts

30-plus cardio machines, more than 15,000 pounds

of free weights and new hDTvs. The Y also added

a new upper playground for children ages 2-5.

The 40-acre property has athletic fields for

soccer and baseball leagues, picnic shelters, an

amphitheater, a 3.5-acre lake and trails – including

a section to Thomasville’s Greenway – for enjoying

the outdoors.

Basketball and volleyball are played in the

gymnasium, and the modern facility houses

a 25-yard indoor heated swimming pool, a chapel,

aerobic studios, spacious locker rooms and a

five-star child-care center.

“As we are challenging participants and

supporting them, we also develop meaningful

relationships with them,” Ceo Tommy hodges

says, “and this keeps them coming back, which

is a key to staying healthy, both physically

and spiritually.”

– Carol Stuart


f inding something to do is

rarely a problem in Davidson

County. The area’s rich collection

of parks, playgrounds and sporting

grounds offer plenty of ways for

residents here to keep active.

natural adventuresThose seeking out a more

natural setting don’t have far to

go. The uwharrie national Forest,

which is comprised of more than

53,000 pristine acres of wilderness,

is a popular destination for

camping, hiking, paddling, fishing,

horseback riding and even panning

for gold. Davidson County is also

home to Boone’s Cave Park, a

beautiful and scenic 110 acres

filled with more than three dozen

species of wildflowers, walking

trails to the Yadkin River, a

1700s-style cabin and a cave that

is long rumored to be the hideout

of the legendary Daniel Boone.

Denton’s FarmPark gives visitors

the chance to experience life from

a different time – the park features

a 1.5-mile railroad track called

the handy Dandy (complete with

steam train) that encircles the

park’s 15 restored buildings,

including a blacksmith shop,

old-time post office, radio

museum, country store and

Aunt Fannie’s Doll museum.

The park also hosts three annual

events – The southeast old

Threshers Reunion, Denton

Bluegrass Festival, and The

Doyle Lawson and quicksilver’s

Bluegrass music Festival.

There are more than 20

county and neighborhood parks

in Davidson County, including

the Doak skatepark, which was

partially funded by a grant from

the foundation of legendary

skateboarder Tony hawk and

is free and open to the public.

Different combinations of activities

like volleyball, basketball, soccer

and baseball, as well as

playgrounds, ball fields, trails

and picnic shelters can be found

in other parks like Childers,

Finch, Grimes, and harrison

and veteran’s memorial parks.

sPortsThe biggest sports events in

Davidson County are both cycling

events. The Piedmont Triad

omnium is a collection of bike

races, ranging from time trials to

street sprints, that happen over

four days in July annually. The

event is staged to raise money

and awareness for the national

ms society and other local Triad

nonprofits. The Tour de Kale is the

other big annual bicycling event,

which happens in June and also

hosts a number of different

events. The Tour de Kale is a

unspoiled escapesdavidson County’s reCreation sCene is pristine

doak skatepark in thomasville is free and open to the public.

PhoTo BY ToDD BenneTT


sports & Recreation

fundraiser for hardship medical

causes in the Denton area.Golf is also popular in the

region, and the county is home to some excellent courses such as Winding Creek Golf Club, sapona Country Club, Lexington Golf Club and Colonial Country Club. Willow Creek and The meadowlands are two of the county’s more upscale courses. uwharrie Point borders the county seat.

For those who prefer team sports, the minor league baseball team, the Thomasville hiToms, play every summer in historic Finch Field. This Coastal Plains League team has produced a few mLB players and have enjoyed solid community support since their creation in 1999.

Water recreation and resorts

With a few recreational lakes and a main river running through the county, Davidson has plenty of opportunities for many different water-related activities. Canoe enthusiasts will love the Yadkin-Pee Dee River Canoe Trail, which begins in Wilkesboro before running through Davidson County and stretches a total of 230 miles, all the way down to the south Carolina border. The Yadkin River is also great for kayaking and fishing.

however, the best fishing in the county can be found at high Rock Lake, which has hosted the Bassmaster Classic – fishing’s super Bowl – four times. The large population of bass, catfish, stripers and more attract anglers from all over the country to the lake year round. The lake stretches more than 10 miles and has more than 350 miles of shoreline. in addition to fishing, the lake is also open for water skiing, boating and swimming. Tuckertown Lake and Lake Thom-A-Lex are the other

popular destinations for the same types of activities.

The Blue stone Dive Resort is a great place to scuba and snorkel. Located in an old quarry filled with water, divers from across the southeast come to see abandoned ships and cars, and even a 50-foot navy ship. They also have training facilities to help beginners become experts. Another great

resort in the area, although it’s a different type all together, is the salvation Army’s Walter Johnson Camp & Conference Center. each summer more than 1,300 kids come to their summer camp. Throughout the rest of the year, Camp Walter Johnson serves as a meeting and conference center, perfect for business retreats.

6039-TR12260M_TGB_Livability.indd 1 3/22/10 11:40:09 AM 44 davidson Count y imagesdavidsonCount y.Com 45

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Holiday Inn Express at the Vineyardswww.hiexpress.com/atthevineyards

Hospice of Davidson Countywww.hospiceofdavidson.org

Lanier’s True Value Hardwarewww.lanierhardware.com

Lexington Medical Center www.lexingtonmemorial.com

Lexington Utilitieswww.lexingtonnc.net

North State Communicationswww.northstate.net

Parrott Insurance & Benefitswww.parrottinsurance.com

Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportationwww.partnc.org

PPG Industrieswww.ppg.com

State Farm – Brooks Nash Agentwww.brooksnash.com

Thomasville Medical Centerwww.thomasvillemedicalcenter.org

Thomasville Veterinary Hospitalwww.thomasvillevet.net

Turlington & Company LLPwww.turlingtonandcompany.com

Wal-Martwww.wal-mart.com

Williamswww.williams.com


http://www.ablearning.com

http://www.bestdisposalinc.com

http://www.byerlyshoaf.net

http://www.coltraneandcompany.com

http://www.davidsonccc.edu

http://www.co.davidson.nc.us/library


http://www.davidsonworks.org

http://www.energyunited.com

http://www.firstbancorp.com

http://www.highpointregional.com

http://www.hiexpress.com/atthevineyards

http://www.hospiceofdavidson.org

http://www.lanierhardware.com

http://www.lexingtonmemorial.com

http://www.lexingtonnc.net

http://www.northstate.net

http://www.parrottinsurance.com

http://www.partnc.org

http://www.ppg.com

http://www.brooksnash.com

http://www.thomasvillemedicalcenter.org

http://www.thomasvillevet.net

http://www.turlingtonandcompany.com

http://www.wal-mart.com

http://www.williams.com

liveunited.org

snapsHoTDavidson County is home to two vibrant communities – Lexington

and Thomasville. The county is known as the Barbecue Capital of the

World, with several restaurants that specialize in Lexington-style

‘cue. Site Selection magazine consistently ranks the county top 5

among u.s. micropolitan statistical areas.

communiTy profile

Turlington and Company, l.l.p.Certified Public Accountants

www.turlingtonandcompany.com

509 E. Center St. Post Office Box 1697

Lexington, NC 27293-1697

phone: (336) 249-6856fax: (336) 248-8697

this seCtion is sponsored By

climaTe

89° FJuly high temperature

29° FJanuary low temperature

43”annual rain Fall (vs. national average annual rain Fall 37”)

Time zone

eastern

cosT of living

$53,644median Family income

$96,815median home price

$614median rent for a two-Bedroom apartment

HouseHolD informaTion

age

38median resident age

25%age 19 and under

47%age 20-54

28%age 55 and over

maRItaL status

54%married

46%single

etHnICIty

71%White

15%Black

8%hispanic

6%other

TransporTaTion

19 minutesmedian travel time to Work


http://www.turlingtonandcompany.com

Ad Index 28 ABridgeToLeArning

26 BesTdisposALinc.

28 ByerLyshoAf&co.

28 coLTrAne&compAnyinc.

39 dAvidsoncounTy communiTycoLLege

20 dAvidsoncounTy puBLicLiBrAry

20 dAvidsonWATerinc.

23 dAvidsonWorks

28 energyuniTed

28 firsTBAnk

21 highpoinTregionAL heALThsysTem

c3 hoLidAyinnexpress ATThevineyArds

43 hospiceof dAvidsoncounTy

27 LAnier’sTrue vALuehArdWAre

24 LexingTonmedicALcenTer

37 LexingTonuTiLiTies

2 norTh sTATecommunicATions

28 pArroTTinsurAnce &BenefiTs

Ad Index (cont.) 20 piedmonTAuThoriTyfor regionALTrAnsporTATion

28 ppgindusTries

28 sTATefArm– BrooksnAshAgenT

c2 ThomAsviLLe medicALcenTer

23 ThomAsviLLe veTerinAryhospiTAL

47 TurLingTon&compAnyLLp

c4 WAL-mArT

26 WiLLiAms

cancer.org

Through the Lens

Walking into high Rock

outfitters on a Tuesday night,

you kind of expect to see the

kayaks hanging on the wall,

the life jackets on the racks and

the wakeboards on display. What

you’re not prepared for is the guy

standing in front of the kayaks

playing a saxophone.

But then again, it’s Tuesday

night and that means an open

jam. And on Wednesday nights,

it’s bluegrass.

You may be asking yourself

“Why does an outfitter have

live music?”

Go ahead and ask yourself

why they serve coffee and beer

as well.

high Rock outfitters doesn’t fit

the status quo when it comes to

retail shops in uptown Lexington,

n.C. And that’s the point.

They’re a new kind of business,

started by a younger generation

that’s looking to revitalize the

downtown. And they’re doing

it one pint, one latte and one

kayak at a time.

From our Photo Blog: davidson county

PosTeD BY ToDD BenneTT

now that you’ve experienced Davidson County through our photos, see it through the eyes of our photographers. visit throughthelensjci.com to view our exclusive photographers’ blog documenting what all went in to capturing those perfect moments.

get the story Behind the Photo

more online See more favorite photos and read the stories behind the shots at throughthelensjci.com.

48 davidson Count y

• Indoorpool

• Fitnessfacility

• Dailyhousekeeping

• Complimentarynewspaper

• Freelocalcalls andvoicemail

• Refrigerator

• Coffeemaker

• Microwave

• Hairdryer

• Iron/ironingboard

• DeskwithInternetconnection andwirelessavailability

• LCDTVwithcable

at The Vineyards

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Lexington NW – The Vineyards features

an indoor pool and a fitness facility. High-speed wireless Internet access is

complimentary. Business-related amenities consist of a business center and a

small meeting room. A complimentary breakfast is offered. This business-friendly

hotel also offers coffee and complimentary newspapers in the lobby.

Amenities

351 Vineyards Crossing

Lexington, NC 27295

tel (336) 224-6730

fax (336) 224-6738

www.hiexpress.com/ atthevineyards

http://www.hiexpress.com/atthevineyards

160 Lowes Blvd. Lexington, NC

Exit 91, Store is off Cotton Grove Rd. Store Manager: Erica Davidson

Images Davidson County, NC: 2012

Documents

ag e s dav d s o n c

sales todd potter senior

business drifting

visual content mark

history of davidson

images davidson county

davidson count y

magazine i