Mint hill 2011 digi#2

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5829 Phyliss Lane | Mint Hill, NC 28227 | 704-573-3331 | www.robinsonsmiles.com

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5829 Phyliss Lane Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-790-0590 Bevin K. Malley, DDS Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

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GREETINGS FROM THE

MAYOR The Town of Mint Hill was incorporated in 1971, but our history as a community dates back more than two and a half centuries. Although the Town continues to experience exciting growth that includes the revitalization of our downtown area, one constant remains – the extraordinary sense of community.

The Town has something to offer everyone - high school football games, Saturday mornings at the Historical Society’s Farmers Market and the “Mint Hill Madness” fall festival the last weekend in September. The annual event includes a parade, carnival rides for the children, musical entertainment, and the Mint Hill Madness beauty pageant. Our community pride is not just exhibited during special community events but can also be seen every day throughout the year.

As Mayor of Mint Hill and on behalf of the Board of Commissioners and the citizens we are elected to represent, it is my extreme pleasure to welcome you into our Town and invite you to experience all that Mint Hill has to offer.

See you around Town,

Ted H. Biggers, Jr. Mayor Ted H. Biggers, Jr.

Durham WinstonSalem Greensboro Raleigh

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

CONTENTS Welcome to Mint Hill ...........................................4-5 Facts & Figures ...................................................... 5 Businesses Of The Past .........................................6-7 The Beginning .....................................................6-7 Location & Climate ..............................................8-9 Bob Long ............................................................ 10 Government .........................................................12 Meet Some of Mint Hill’s Leaders .......................... 13 Mint Hill Historical Society ............................... 14-15 Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce ...................... 16-17 Harry Hood & Charlie Burdick ..............................18 Police Department ................................................ 19 Fire Departments ................................................. 19 Senior Nutrition Program ......................................20 Worship ............................................................. 20 Healthcare .......................................................... 21 Lisa Poston .......................................................... 22 Education ............................................................23 Carlos Alvarez Cotera ......................................... 24 Mint Hill Arts .......................................................25 Festivals & Events ............................................ 26-27 Recreation ...........................................................28 Library ................................................................29 Post Office .......................................................... 29 NC Korean War Veterans Memorial .....................30 Civic / Youth Groups ............................................ 30 Voter Registration .................................................30 Drivers License & Registration ...............................30

Asheville Charlotte Fayetteville

MINT HILL

Wilmington

Mint Hill is located on the eastern side of Mecklenburg County in North Carolina.

Nearest Towns to Mint Hill Matthews ............................... 5.7 miles Stallings ................................. 6.5 miles Indian Trail ........................... 7.7 miles

Harrisburg .................. 9.9 miles Charlotte ................... 11.5 miles

The use of artwork, copy or information without the written consent of The Biz Well Corporation is prohibited. All of the information in this publication is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, The Biz Well Corporation, Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce, Mint Hill Historical Society, and Town of Mint Hill are not liable for any errors, omissions or products represented in this publication. For advertising information, questions or comments about this publication, call 704-763-4087 or visit www.gobizwell.com. Special thanks to Cardinal Graphics, Inc. for printing this publication.

Area Map ........................................................... 31 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Phone Numbers & Links ....................................... 32

ON THE

COVER Andy Sagcal is the winner of the Shutterbug Photo Contest for the front cover of this publication.

He and his family are shown enjoying a nice picnic at Pine Lake Country Club.

Mint Hill, North Carolina

3

W

elcome to one of the best resources you will find to better acquaint yourself with Mint Hill, North Carolina. This magazine is a wonderful way for you to understand how we blend the old and the new into southern grace and modern charm.

As you turn the pages, we invite you to discover a great place to live, work and play. Read about the people, the thriving businesses and industry, the outstanding schools, and the wonderful recreational facilities.

This publication is also an overview of Mint Hill’s rich history & heritage, demographics, government, schools, healthcare, festivals & events, and recreation.

Without losing sight of its strong historical heritage and its commitment to preserve the environment, the city and county continue to move forward in a progressive manner to provide the quality of life its residents have come to expect.

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

facts & figures

Whether you are looking to relocate or just traveling through, this is a wonderful community. If you come to Mint Hill as a new resident, we are especially happy to welcome you. You will find that we are small enough for one person to make a difference but big enough to offer a wide variety of amenities for a richer life.

It’s all right here in our area—an abundance of residential areas, great restaurants, shopping opportunities, outdoor recreation, excellent medical facilities, and historical sites—the amenities are endless. We invite you to visit Mint Hill to see what is truly meant by having a hometown feeling. Once you feel it for yourself, you’ll want to be a part of this vibrant community.

Population

22,800

Total Land Area

25 Square Miles

Annual Budget

$9,600,000

Town of Mint Hill Tax Rate

$0.275 per $100 valuation

Mecklenburg County Tax Rate -

$0.8387 per $100 valuation

Form of City Government

Council, Mayor & Manager

-

Mint Hill Police Department

38 Police Personnel

Mint Hill Volunteer Fire Department Dept of Insurance Rating Full-Time Employees Part-Time Employees Volunteers

5 5 30 70

Percent of Population by Age Group Under 5 years 18 years and over 65 years and over

7.2% 72.8% 10.2%

Median Age

39.5 years

In Labor Force (16 years and over)

72.1%

Population Mix White Black/AfricanAmerican Hispanic or Latino Asian

82.6% 9.6% 5.6% 1.4%

Education Level for 25 years and over High school graduate Bachelor’s degree

90.9% 28.5%

Real Estate Residential

Office/Business/ Professional Centers Light Industrial/Distribution Retail Centers

Photo by Lisa Ann Lacey

1,500 new single family homes (planned or under construction) 10 Centers 3 Parks 11 Centers

New Development “Bridges at Mint Hill” mall 1.3 million square feet “Presbyterian Mint Hill Hospital” Commercial Space Available Total Housing Units 8,745 % of Owner Occupied Housing 83.2% Median Household Income $71,662 Recreation Public Parks Sports Complex Private Country Club Golf Course Athletic Association

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

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the beginning In 1701, Surveyor General and naturalist, John Lawson, ventured from Charleston inland to the wilds of the back country. He found “a paradise” of luxuriant savannas laced with pristine streams and edged with majestic forests. As early settlers arrived, they too were struck by the beauty.

Grasslands and alternating forests of oak, ash, poplar, elm and pine were home to abundant animal life including prized quail and turkey. The wildlife provided income as well as food for furs and hides that were in great demand.

One hundred years ago, the Henderson Roller Mill was located in Mint Hill’s center of town on Fairview Road. Eli Henderson’s roller mill processed grain by crushing and grinding it to make flour. The mill was on the second floor and below was a general mercantile where customers could shop for farm implements, seed, fertilizer, work clothes, boots, wash pots and various household items. After the depression, Don Allen opened Allen’s Market, a general store. He was well known for his beef, cooked cheese and cured ham and sausage. Over the years the building usage changed and today it is O’Neil’s Pub.

The peaceful nature of the Catawba and Sugaree Indians added to the attraction, as these tribes were already settled and engaged in hunting and agriculture. In addition, the settlers liked this back country because it was far away from the prying eyes of the British Lord Proprietors, who were overseeing colonization. By 1750, the fearless Scotch Irish Presbyterians from Pennsylvania headed south in droves down the Indian Trading Path that later became known as The Great Wagon Road.

Churches were established as the center of the community. Philadelphia Presbyterian church, originally named Clear Creek for its proximity to the creek water, dates from 1770. The cemetery at Clear Creek’s first location bears the markers of distinguished settlers, Adam Alexander, John Query, and John Foard, who were signers of the Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence.

These and other early settlers were determined to establish a nation offering religious freedom, civic opportunity and economic security. They labored to clear the land to build their homes and plant their crops. Neighbors worked together to construct one room cabins and meeting houses. Isolated as they were in the back country, members of the Clear Creek community forged strong bonds of kinship, faith, and a firm belief in education that carried them through growth and change.

Agriculture was the mainstay of Mecklenburg County’s economy throughout the 1800’s. Clear Creek’s self-sufficient farmers produced an assortment of crops including corn, wheat, oats and peas. After the railroad arrived in nearby Charlotte, local farmers grew more cotton and other cash crops.

Business and industry expanded after the Civil War. Enterprising citizens established cotton gins, blacksmith shops, a roller mill, a steam molasses mill, a brickyard, and a shingle factory. At that time, commerce centered along Fairview Road where the Henderson’s Store sold general merchandise.

Community residents still remember the Mint Hill Five and Dime Store that was open from 1959 until 1977. Located on what we now call Fairview Road, it was then named The Mint Hill Road East. John Black sold everything in his store from fabric and sewing notions to toys and holiday gifts. Customers could always find beautiful holiday floral arrangements made by long time employee Margaret Flowe. Another employee, Ms. Benton brought her sewing machine to work in the Dime Store and sewed dresses to sell. Men still remember their younger days when they entered the model car contests for trophy prizes. John’s father, Bill Black, originally operated a Shell gas station and grocery store there in 1946. It met the needs of the town center community. Today the Carriker Carpet Company occupies this building.

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Early settlers placed a high premium on education. Churches were the first to provide classes and open local schoolhouses. Education minded citizens and ministers taught in their own homes. Bain Academy, a privately owned institution, was established by John Bain in 1889 as a church school. Students came from all over the country to attend Bain, one of the few high schools in the county. Nearby, boarding homes were built to accommodate students and teachers.

MINT HILL’S HISTORY

Mint Hill, North Carolina

}

1770

1889

1899

1903

1910

Philadelphia Presbyterian Church

Bain Academy

Town of Mint Hill Chartered

Industry Boom i.e. Cotton Gin, Brick Yard, & Roller Mill

Town Charter Dissolved

Many early communities adopted their names after the mid-nineteenth century railroad stops in their area. Clear Creek did not have a rail stop so the name may have come from an assay office established in the town during the local gold rush. Or perhaps the Mint Hill name was derived from another tradition that says the postmaster had an affinity for mint tea.

Originally chartered in 1899, the town fathers petitioned the state in 1910 to cancel the town charter upon learning that state road work would not be done inside of corporate limits. So it remained until 1971 when alarm over approaching City of Charlotte annexation threatened the community. The charter was resurrected to protect Mint Hill from Charlotte’s sprawl.

As Mint Hill entered into the new century, the town’s business and industry expanded to meet the needs of the growing community. Agriculture and dairy farming continued to dominate the still rural area, but other industries emerged as crop farming became less profitable. Commerce grew as well, altering patterns of development within the town as the McEwen family centered their growing business along the intersection of Lawyers Road and Matthews-Mint Hill Road. The years have brought many changes to this once rural farming area. While opening its arms to diversity and growth, Mint Hill continues to retain its country charm.

1931

1950

1952

1954

1958

1971

2003

Duke Power Came to Mint Hill

Earp-Williams VFW Organized

Fire Department

Post Office

Library

Town Police Charter Department Re-established

Few communities in the United States had the advantage of air ambulance service. In the 1930s, this service wasn’t available anywhere in the Southeast. Carl McEwen always strived to bring the latest in equipment and service to this community and the Carolinas. Providing air ambulance services for people who needed specialty hospitals such as Duke was life saving for the patients, and in keeping with Carl McEwen’s humanitarian efforts. Carl never flew the ambulance plane into Mint Hill but he and others flew smaller planes into town. One landing strip was behind the current Fifth Third Bank and another was where Sunset Drive is located by the Mint Hill Baptist Church. Years later, at the request of the federal government, Mr. McEwen donated his air ambulance plane to the war effort.

Today it is Woof N Hoof on Matthews-Mint Hill Road, but when Carl McEwen built the brick building in 1942 it was the first café in town. Marley and Eula Griffin operated the Mint Hill Café which served the community and the King Craft Hosiery Mill next door where stockings were made.

Customers ordered hamburgers and hotdogs, sipped sodas and listened to the juke box. The Griffins even offered ‘curb service’! Later the building was used for an antique business and the Ross Florist owned by Sarah and Pernay Ross.

Mint Hill, North Carolina

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location & climate

THE SQUARE

Thousands of people pass the town clock each day at this busy intersection.

CONVENIENT TRAVEL Interstate 485 is the Charlotte Outer Loop beltway serving Mecklenburg County and metropolitan Charlotte.

NCDOT maintains about 80,000 miles of highway statewide. Texas is the only other state in the US that maintains more mileage.

Mint Hill’s proximity makes it a desirable location for business, cultural events, and residential living. The intersection of NC 51 (Matthews-Mint Hill Road) and Lawyers Road is the center of Mint Hill and is known as “the Square”. This is about 18 miles from downtown Charlotte. This was the second of three areas to be developed with commercial centers. Our “Square” has been landscaped and provides a friendly appeal to our citizens. The original town was located on Highway 218 and now is the location of our Fire Department as well as shopping centers, banks, restaurants and several of the town’s oldest commercial buildings. The southern leg of Interstate 485 provides 4 interchanges between Blair Road and Idlewild Road for easy acces into town. Access to the major highway systems of I-85 and I-77 are also within minutes of Mint Hill.

Surrounding communities include Matthews, Stallings, Indian Trail, Harrisburg, and Charlotte. With it’s location just outside of the always-bustling city of Charlotte, commuting residents and visitors take pleasure in the area’s lack of congestion and ease of travel. Local thoroughfares make getting around town a cinch, and nearby the Interstates offer effecient regional travel to some of the state’s metropolitan centers, its beaches or its mountains..

If you’re looking for a way to save on gas, check out the Charlotte Area Transit’s (CATS) Park and Ride. Park at any Park and Ride location around

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

the region and catch your bus, vanpool or carpool.

Charlotte currently operates the largest transit system between Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, GA. The system operates more than 40 local routes, transporting more than 18 million passengers each year.

Four airports are located within proximity to the town of Mint Hill. Ranked as one of the top 20 busiest airports in the United States, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is located about 19 miles west of Mint Hill. The Wilgrove Air Park is located approximately 2 miles north of town.

The Monroe Regional Airport is located 12 miles to the south and Goose Creek Municipal Airport is located 8 miles to the southeast.

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For another option of transportation, Amtrak provides rail service to cities throughout the nation and is located about 10 miles from Mint Hill in Charlotte.

Mint Hill has a mild climate characterized by moderate temperature variations and moderate humidity. The average temperature is about 60° ranging from an average winter temperature of 43° to a summer average of 78°. The average annual precipitation is 44 inches, and the average relative humidity is 54 percent. With a relatively comfortable climate most of the time there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy your favorite outdoor activity.

Tuesday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm Wednesday & Thursday: 10:00 am- 6:00pm Friday: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

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MINI-MAC STORAGE CENTER 545-6313 Located in Mint Hill On Highway 218 (Beside the Mint Hill Fire Station) Photo by Michael Habernicht Mint Hill, North Carolina

9

By Rebecca Dickinson

The Germans surrendered. The war was over.

Celebration ensued in Boston, Massachusetts.

Mint Hill’s first mayor, US Navy Radarman Bob Long, joined in the fun only to learn the news report was false. Five days later, he heard war with Germany ended.

“The town went wild,” Long said. “Anybody could get away with anything then.”

Bob completed training at the time of surrender, and he said Japan was close to defeat. He served on the USS A.J. Luke for 20 months. It traveled to South America and the Caribbean. Most of his duties kept him inside.

In November 1949, he embraced the chance to go out into the community. Long met with a group of servicemen to form the Veterans of Foreign Affairs, VFW. Established in 1899, the VFW was—and continues as— the oldest combat veterans’ organization in the US. US Air Force Col. Robert Quillen taught at Bain Elementary School. He also instructed vocational courses to returning World War II veterans.

“The courses that he tried to teach were overridden by returning veterans telling their stories,” Long said. “So he said, ‘There’s an organization we can form to use that energy.’ He formed the VFW post.”

The Mint Hill VFW and all others have shaped the organization to fulfill the mission of patriotic fraternity, strengthening bonds between service men and women, and to provide community service. Any American citizen who served in a foreign war or expedition is eligible for membership.

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

“The Mint Hill VFW was one of strongest as far as community service for years and years,” Long said.

In Mint Hill, the VFW created essay contests called “Voice for Democracy” for high school seniors. They gave certificates to elementary schools for students who wrote patriotic essays. The VFW hosted Christmas events with Santa Claus who gave gifts to children in need.

One of the causes closest to Long’s heart was visiting patients at the VA hospital in Salisbury. As an American Red Cross volunteer, Long believed in helping and listening to hospitalized service men and women.

Korean veteran and fellow VFW member, Richard Long, stayed at Lawyer’s Glen Retirement Living Center before his death. According to Long, he was not responding to conversations or to noise. Long made a plan. He showed Richard an Amos and Andy DVD. Richard responded and laughed. Veterans like Richard are a legacy of the VFW’s mission.

In 1952, serious fires burned and scorched some of the homes and farms in the area.

“Buckets don’t get the job done, and the fire departments that did exist at that time were too far away to help,” Long said.

Bob helped launch the Mint Hill Fire Department and is still a member of what he calls “the best fire department in North Carolina.”

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Our Services Include: • TOOTH COLORED FILLINGS • CROWNS, BRIDGES & VENEERS

Town Hall

7322 MATTHEWS-MINT HILL ROAD • CHARLOTTE, NC 28227

704-545-3243 • www.lasladekdds.com

Lawyers Rd.

51

C H I L D R E N & NE W PAT I E NTS ARE WELC OME!

Matthews-Mint Hill Rd.

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Cresthil l Dr.

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

11

government

CURRENT TOWN HALL The current Town Hall building was completed in 1984 and constructed with energy conservation in mind.

Mayor Ted H. Biggers .........704-545-9727 ext. 119 Mayor Pro-Tem Lloyd Austin ............ 704-545-9727 ext. 210

The Town of Mint Hill was incorporated in 1971. The city provides a traditional mix of

Commissioner Carl M. Ellington ...... 704-545-9727 ext. 213

general government services, including police and fire protection, library, construction and maintenance of streets and infrastructure, storm water drainage, recreational activities, cultural events, planning, zoning, housing and administrative services.

Big plans are underway for Mint Hill. A new town hall complex is scheduled to begin construction in the fall of 2011 and open in the spring of 2012. The future site of town hall will be at Mint Hill Village off Matthews-Mint Hill Road.

The current town hall structure, which was completed in 1984, will become the home for the Mint Hill Police Department.

Rendering of the new Mint Hill Town Hall Complex

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

Commissioner Brenda McRae ........ 704-545-9727 ext. 212 Commissioner Katrina "Tina" Ross ..704-545-9727 ext. 211 Town Manager Brian L. Welch ...................... 704-545-9726

The City of Mint Hill is governed by a nonpartisan mayor and board of commissioners, elected at-large biannually. They all work together to make decisions in order to maintain and improve the safety and wellbeing of the community and economic development. They hold regular meetings at the Town Hall on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. Also, there is a planning board, board of adjustment and park and recreation committee, each meeting monthly. The public is encouraged to attend these meetings.

City Council meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 7:00 pm at Mint Hill Town Hall in the John M. McEwen Assembly Room.

Town Clerk Beth Q. Hamrick ...... 704-545-9726 ext. 113 Deputy Town Clerk Doris Miller .............. 704-545-9726 ext. 112 Program Support Michelle Farrar ........ 704-545-9726 ext. 100 Finance Naida Sergel ........... 704-545-9726 ext. 117 Public Works Director Dwayne Dorton ........704-545-9727 ext. 214 Deputy Town Manager & Planning Director Lee Bailey, AICP ...... 704-545-9727 ext. 115 Human Resources Robin E. Edwards ... 704-545-9726 ext. 122 Parks & Recreation Michelle Farrar ........ 704-545-9726 ext. 100

TED BIGGERS - MAYOR Ted was first elected Mayor of Mint Hill in 1999. He led the Board of Commissioners to move the town manager form of government, at that time Mint Hill was the largest town in North Carolina without a town manager. The change has helped to keep town politics out of the daily operation of the town and has made the town more responsive to its citizens. He also led the Board in the formation of the town’s police force. Mint Hill had, until that time, contracted with Charlotte to provide police protection. The move has been a great success, saving the taxpayers money and providing a higher level of police coverage.

LLOYD AUSTIN - MAYOR PRO-TEM

MEET SOME OF

MINTHILL’S LEADERS

Lloyd has lived in Mint Hill for roughly 27 years. He currently works as a Barber at the Mint Hill Barber Shop. He enjoys serving the town and its citizens and his goal is to keep Mint Hill a town visibly different from Charlotte and the other surrounding towns. He personally chose to live here for the small town feel. Mint Hill offers nice homes with open space and a great opportunity for small businesses. When he considers the future of Mint Hill, he sees a town with enormous potential, a community which has grown but still has a small town feel with warm and friendly residents.

CARL McEWEN (MICKEY) ELLINGTON - COMMISSIONER Mickey was born and raised in Mint Hill. He began working at McEwen Funeral Service when he was 16 years old. He was always active in the business and became President of the company in 1980. Many people do not know that there was a very active Mint Hill Jaycees, which was started in the 1960’s and sponsored through the NC Jaycees. Mickey was a charter member and voted outstanding Jaycee of the year for chairing very successful horseshows held in town.He is very active in the community and is a member of many organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, Mint Hill Lions Club, Mint Hill Historical Society and the Oasis Shrine.

The things in life that mean so much to him are his family, his church and the Town of Mint Hill.

BRENDA McRAE - COMMISSIONER Brenda grew up and lived in Charlotte until 1986 when she, her husband, and their first son moved to Mint Hill. She has nearly forty years of business experience and is currently a Relationship Manager at a wealth management company in Charlotte. About twelve years ago, Brenda began writing for The Mint Hill times. She attended the Board of Commissioners meetings and wrote article about them. She became familiar with the workings of local government and was impressed by the mayor, commissioners and town staff. She admired their true dedication to the people of Mint Hill and their commitment to maintain the quality of small town life that they all shared. She is currently completing her third term as Commissioner and is able to use her business experience to help shape the town’s future. ”I have no ‘agenda’ other than to help Mint Hill continue to be a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family, said Brenda.

KATRINA (TINA) WEAVER ROSS - COMMISSIONER Tina arrived in Mint Hill as a youngster, back in 1967. Mint Hill was a “no traffic light” town back then. She and her brother frequently rode their bikes to “town”, which meant going to John M. McEwen’s store to get a cold soft drink from the old-timey case. Her first job was working after school and on Saturdays at Yvette Fine Fabrics.

Throughout the years she has been very active in the community and organizations such as the Mint Hill Business Association (now the Chamber of Commerce), Girl Scouts, Mint Hill Historical Society, Levine Senior Center, Arts and Science Council, Kiwanis, Rotary, and the Women’s Club. She says “Mint Hill is a wonderful place to live, work, worship, and play”.

BETH HAMRICK - TOWN CLERK/ASSISTANT MANAGER A native of Gaston County, NC, Beth and her husband moved to Mint Hill in 1977. Over the past 31 years, Beth has served in various capacities with the Town of Mint Hill including secretary to the Town Administrator and Planning Department, Tax Collector, Interim Administrator, and since 1985 as Town Clerk. In 2000, she became the Town Clerk/Assistant Manager. She believes that Mint Hill’s proximity to Charlotte provides the citizens with some of the region’s best opportunities for employment, entertainment, shopping and continued education. She says, “another good thing about the location of Mint Hill is the fact that its residents are only a few hours’ driving distance from the beautiful mountains and beaches of North Carolina.”

TIM W. LEDFORD - POLICE CHIEF Tim began his police career in 1976 and has not looked back. In 2006, he was selected as the State Law Enforcement Officer of the year by the NC American Legion, as well being awarded numerous other awards throughout his career. For the past three years, he has been the Chief of Police in Mint Hill. Ledford has thoroughly enjoyed his time with the agency because the community shows such great support for their police department. He hopes that he can remain active in the Mint Hill community and as Mint Hill continues to grow, that the manner in which the growth takes place can be controlled. By doing so, it will help to ensure Mint Hill to be the prime location that people will want to visit, become enchanted by what they see and eager to become a part of our community.

JEREMY K. RUSSEL - FIRE CHIEF MINT HILL VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT Chief Russell has served Mint Hill Volunteer Fire Department since 1990, joining as a Junior Firefighter, at the earliest age, allowed by the department. He became certified as a North Carolina EMT at the age of 18 and continued education in the EMS field, becoming a North Carolina EMT-Paramedic two years later. Today still certified at the Paramedic level he has also completed education in the fire service field. He is certified as a North Carolina Firefighter-II and as a North Carolina Rescue Technician. Chief Russell has risen through the ranks of the fire department over his 21 years of service to the department. Chief Russell recognizes that he is most lucky, to be the person, allowed to accept the community credit for the wonderful “job well done” by the men and women, “who really are,” Mint Hill Volunteer Fire Department mitigate this community’s emergencies, day and night. For that, he is most proud to serve as their leader.

Mint Hill, North Carolina

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7601 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. PO Box 23203 • Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-573-0726; historical@bellsouth.net

Mission

14

To preserve and make available to the public, historical records and artifacts pertaining to historic life in the Mint Hill area, in order to promote interest and pride in the history of the area, while also providing opportunities for cultural education to the community at large.

Volunteers Special talents and skills such as conducting research, cataloging museum items, reconstructing and preserving buildings, serving as docents and leading tours, and other levels of expertise are always needed and appreciated and needed by the Mint Hill Historical Society, which is open to new members and volunteers

Mint Hill, North Carolina

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As a chamber, we strive to create new opportunities and avenues for businesses to showcase their products and services.

In keeping with these goals, we are continually in search of new programs for advancing the visibility of our members.

7900 Matthews Mint Hill Rd. • Suite 107D • Mint Hill NC 28227 Mailing: PO Box 23223 • Mint Hill, NC 28227 Phone: 704-573-8282 • Fax: 704-573-8284 www.MintHillChamberofCommerce.com • www.iSupportMintHill.com

www.iSupportMintHill.com

2011 Board of Directors} Tony Long (President) • Rohn Waldrep (Vice President) • Andrea • Buschur (Treasurer) • Tony Johnson (Secretary) • Rich Ferretti Mike Cochrane • Fran Harris • Jennifer Manchester • Tonya Kerr • Mike Richardson, MD • Brian Nunn • David Fuerst • Mickey Ellington (Town Liaison) 16

Mint Hill, North Carolina

CURRENT PROGRAMS & BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO CHAMBER MEMBERS INCLUDE:: Annual Membership Directory Full color business directory with Mint Hill Chamber Member’s contact information & ads accessible to the Mint Hill community.

www.minthillchamberofcommerce.com Valuable web resource for the business community.

isupportminthill.com Web portal connecting business and community.

Monthly Member Luncheons Networking event with business or civic related speakers of interest for the membership.

Business After & Before Hours Events On-going networking opportunities within the Mint Hill community.

Networking 101 Seminars Five "One Hour Sessions" designed to improve networking skills for increased revenue.

Connections A bi-monthly print newsletter for chamber members.

Mint Advantage A member to member discount program.

Friends of the Chamber An additional opportunity to promote your business through numerous print & web based outlets.

Mint Hill Chamber Member Profile Web/print-based profile highlighting a current chamber member.

Business Person of the Year Annual award presented by the Board of Directors to a member who has shown excellence in business and civic leadership.

Mint Hill Madness, Senior Christmas Party & Veteran’s Breakfast Community events sponsored by The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce.

We hope you will participate in these exciting & on-going programs and reap the benefits of their reach within our community. As growth in Mint Hill continues and more businesses relocate to our area, we know that you’ll be glad you made the decision to join!

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Charlie & Harry are repairing this broken grave marker by applying a special epoxy material.

This grave marker now stands tall at Philadelphia Presbyterian Church cemetery.

By Rebecca Dickinson

Two coins lay at the bottom of the grave.

It was one of the artifacts found in a eighteenth century servant’s resting place. Harry Hood and Charlie Burdick joined a team of volunteers and an NC State University professor, sociologist, and anthropologist on an archeological dig at a gravesite. They found buttons, two coffin handles, a hard bone of the inner ear and teeth.

“There was a question about whether should we do it,” Burdick, an Illinois native, said. “We figured it was for science and it was done with all respect.”

The coins demonstrated a Scots Irish history.

Metal handles disproved the myth that servants were wrapped in sheets and put into the grave. The professor wanted to determine the way in which servants were buried, Burdick said. Everything Philadelphia Presbyterian Church historical committee volunteers and the professor discovered contributed to the history of Mint Hill.

“We ought to contribute to Mint Hill,” Burdick said. “People buried in those cemeteries have contributed.”

Before the thought of a dig occurred, trees and growth buried cemeteries marked only by a rubble wall.

In 2003, Hood learned he had cancer. One month later, he ventured with two other men into lost graveyards for Philadelphia. They met at 1 p.m. every Thursday, and worked for four hours.

“The biggest goal was to clean the cemetery up,” Hood said.

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

Hood brought his tractor to mow the area without graves. Trees, limbs, and rope encumbered the cemetery. Volunteers stuck a long rod in the ground—a process called “probing”—to find other grave markers.

Several headstones were broken or covered in mud. The committee cleaned them and put graves back together.

The team completed two sites and handed responsibility to Philadelphia’s Boy Scout Troop 65 to care for them in the future.

A woman from Texas wanted to locate Sugar Dulin, an American Revolutionary War veteran, whose grave in Mint Hill was lost.

“There was no record of it,” Hood said.

Burdick said Dulin’s relative started searching through church records. She acquired a monument from the US Department of Veteran Affairs. Hood and Burdick installed the monument after Dulin’s grave was located.

“I’ve learned a lot about the history of the area and how several families have changed Mint Hill,” Burdick said.

In total, Burdick and Hood have worked on five historic gravesites in North Carolina.

The two men have given in other ways to Mint Hill through the years. Burdick and Hood volunteer at the Mint Hill Historical Society.

They continue to work on gravesites and always welcome more volunteers to join them.

police department 7200 Matthews-Mint Hill Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 Administration: 704-545-1085 Fax 704-545-7133 Non-Emergency call to Dispatchers: 704-889-2231 Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Monday thru Friday The Mint Hill Police understand and accept the importance of developing and maintaining community based partnerships and problem solving, while enforcing the law in a manner that is professional and in the best interest of the Town of Mint Hill.

The police department has 30 full-time employees, two volunteers, and one auxiliary officer. The department now consists of three administrative police supervisors (Chief, Captain, and Lieutenant), five patrol sergeants, three detectives (one detective-sergeant, two detectives), one school-resource officer (SRO), 18 patrol officers, two administrative personnel, one part-time/auxiliary officer, and two volunteer police chaplains.

Squad cars are equipped with the latest technology, including video cameras, radar detectors, Stop Sticks and defibrillators.

Look for the highly visible squad cars with their color scheme of black, white and ‘Mint Hill’ green.

fire departments

B REAKFAST • L UNCH • D INNER • B AKERY Full-Service Traditional American Cuisine

7106 Brighton Park Dr. • Mint Hill, NC 28227 • 704-573-1444 Tues.-Thur. 7:00am-9:00pm • Fri. & Sat. 7:00am - 10:00pm Sun. 7:00am - 3:00pm • Closed Monday

Leading You to Your Dream Home!

Linda A. Lynch REALTOR®/BROKER Licensed in NC, SC, MD, DC

704-560-0974 Cell 704-831-5975 Direct 704-882-5901 Fax LLynch1691@aol.com

15080 Idlewild Rd. • Suite A • Matthews, NC 28104

Mint Hill Volunteer Fire Department 8313 Fairview Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 Non-Emergency: 704-545-4866 Fax 704-545-0384 The Fire/EMS service is one of the largest in the area, and is the only local volunteer service providing for Fire, Heavy Rescue and Emergency Medical Services. The department has approximately 75 fire personnel and 25 medical personnel covering 40 square miles with a population of approximately 20,000. Nine pieces of equipment serve the community and volunteer firemen respond to between 2,500 and 3,000 calls annually. With an excellent Department of Insurance rating of 5 on the state level for volunteer departments they have a proven record for quick response time.

Idlewild Volunteer Fire Department 10241 Idlewild Road Matthews, NC 28105 Non-Emergency: 704-545-5561 Fax 704-545-0228 This station provides fire suppression and emergency medical and rescue services to the residents of Matthews, Mint Hill and surrounding areas of Mecklenburg County. Each year they respond to approximately 2,000 calls for service, including both fire and EMS related incidents. This department is a private, non-profit corporation.

7114 Brighton Park Dr. • Suite 310 Mint Hill, NC 28227 Phone: 704-545-8590 ranbecjewelers@bellsouth.net Mint Hill, North Carolina

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senior nutrition program

The Senior Nutrition Program at Philadelphia Presbyterian Church was started after leaders were successful in persuading the county to start a program in Mint Hill. Lawyers Road Baptist and Blair Road Methodist Churches provided the first vans that picked up seniors who were unable to drive. Educational programs, entertainment, exercise, and fellowship continue to enrich the lives of those who attend this daily program.

worship Arlington Baptist 9801 Arlington Church Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-4589

Henderson Grove Presbyterian NC 51 Highway Charlotte, NC 28227 704-545-3014

New Life Evangelical 7701 Matthews-Mint Hill Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-778-3759

Bethel AME Zion 5400 Barnsdale Lane Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-0154

Idlewild Baptist 12701 Idlewild Road Matthews, NC 28105 704-847-6565

Blair Road United Methodist 9135 Blair Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-6785

Mint Hill Baptist 7835 Matthews-Mint Hill Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-0121

North Union Chapel Church Of God 12411 Bain School Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-9040

Dulin’s Grove Advent Christian 11200 Arlington Church Road Charlotte, NC 28227 704-545-5893 Faith Baptist 6840 Wilson Grove Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-0937 Fellowship Baptist 11416 Albemarle Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-9668

Mint Hill Presbyterian 8528 Brief Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-5199 Morningstar Lutheran 12509 Idlewild Road Matthews, NC 28105 704-847-4502 Mt Lebanon Baptist 6335 Wilson Grove Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-7852 New Beginnings Community 7027 Stillwell Road Matthews, NC 28105 704-567-2900

Philadelphia Presbyterian 11501 Bain School Rd. Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-6172 Shiloh Truelight Truelight Church Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-573-3903 St. Luke Catholic 13700 Lawyers Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-1224 Wilson Grove Baptist 6624 Wilgrove Mint Hill Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-5625

Call 704-573-2490 for more information or to register.

McEwen Funeral Service Mint Hill Chapel Brenda Hester Your Personal REALTOR® Broker/REALTOR® NC/SC

704-576-5772 www.brendahester.com brendahester@kwcharlotte.com

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

Serving the families of Mint Hill since 1918

7428 Matthews ~ Mint Hill Rd.

704-545-4864

www.McEwenMintHillChapel.com

healthcare Promoting wellness in Mint Hill is of the utmost importance to the area’s healthcare providers.

A number of diverse medical practices ensure the health of the area’s residents through a wide spectrum of services and programs. Led by two major healthcare networks, Carolinas HealthCare System and Presbyterian Healthcare, as well as an abundance of private physicians’ practices offering everything from allergists to acupuncturists; dentist to orthodontics, pediatricians to podiatrists; and sports medicine centers residents and visitors of Mint Hill can take comfort in knowing that they have access to numerous medical facilities with exceptional reputations. There are also several assisted living facilities and retirement communities that provide residents with the comforts of home while providing medical attention for those who need additional care.

The closest hospital is Presbyterian Hospital Matthews which provides a wide range of health services including maternity, surgery, cardiovascular and cancer care. Their expert medical team delivers the care you need, close to home.

Mint Hill is also proud to have the CMC-Mint Hill Medical Plaza which provides exceptional healthcare in a state-of-the-art medical complex located just off I-485. Everything from Internal Medicine to Urgent Care is offered for you and your family.

Dr. Patty is Certified by: The American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery The American Dental Board of Anesthesiology

Now serving Mint Hill and surrounding areas 5829-B Phyliss Lane • Mint Hill, NC 28227 We are pleased to be a part of the Mint Hill community and are committed to providing you with the highest quality care possible.

We manage a wide variety of problems relating to the mouth, teeth, and facial regions including: • Dental Implants • Wisdom Teeth • Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery • Facial Trauma • Pre-Prosthetic Surgery • Bone Grafting • Extractions • Oral Pathology • TMJ Disorders • Sleep Apnea • Facial Rejuvenation (Juvéderm, Botox, Pellevé, Obagi Medical)

Our highly trained doctors and staff use the latest in surgical technologies and procedures to understand and treat your needs. They do their best to create an environment in which your care is conducted in a warm, friendly and professional manner.

Main office: 1851 Wellness Blvd. - Monroe, NC 28110 (just off of Hwy 74 and across from Poplin Place shopping center)

704-291-7333 www.unionoralsurgery.com Dr. Patty and Dr. Valiquette serve both of our locations

Mint Hill, North Carolina

21

By Rebecca Dickinson

Before the school year starts, Independence High School student council members brainstorm fundraisers for the new year. Their teacher, Lisa Poston, said when a student wants to help another person, a feeling arises in her heart. It is an emotion she said millions of dollars cannot buy.

“A bunch of my students went to Peru this summer,” Lisa said. “The girls (at an orphanage) were in need of clothes and shoes. My students were brainstorming about how we can buy and get them clothes.”

Poston encourages students on her Dream Team, student council, and in her English classes to think local and global.

Independence High School and Poston bring a different grade of education to the table.

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation originally selected three schools in the US to host its Academy of International, AIS, Studies program.

AIS works as a school within a larger educational community. In all courses, teachers and students, who are selected for the program, learn on a worldwide scale.

As an AIS teacher and extracurricular leader, Poston works with her students to help in Mint Hill and other local areas.

“Independence adds a cultural diversity to Mint Hill,” Poston said. “Independence is about being

22

Mint Hill, North Carolina

independent. The goal is to turnout a student who is independent, a free thinker, and can go out into a global world.”

One student council member came up with “Build-A-Bear, Build-A-Heart.” Poston and student council raised $750 in the fundraisers first year. They went to Build-A-Bear and made 75 teddy bears for the sick patients at Levine Children’s Hospital at Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte. A Mint Hill store, owned by Pam Dulin, donated an additional 350 beanie babies for the patients. Last year, council raised $2,000 and gave away 200 bears at Levine.

In February 2012, Poston said she hopes to raise enough to build 500 bears. Student Council wants to involve other clubs at Independence to make the fundraiser even bigger.

“It makes you feel really good when a kid finds something they like to do, and they really excel at it,” Lisa said.

Dream Team is a group of senior athletes that are drug, tobacco, and alcohol free with a 3.5 GPA or higher.

These athletes go out into the community and visit local schools like Bain Elementary.

“They talk to younger kids and promote making the right choices, literacy skills, and (serve) as mentors,” Poston said.

education With the knowledge that excellent education is an invaluable investment in its residents’ lives, the area has ensured easy access to high-quality educational opportunities for students of all ages.

The area offers quality public school systems, excellent charter schools, vocational and technical training programs, and access to some of the finest colleges and universities in the region.

Those in Mint Hill who wish to continue their education are fortunate to have an abundance of excellent institutions close to home. These include Central Piedmont Community College, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Queens University, Johnson & Wales University, Pfeiffer University, Johnson C. Smith University, and many more. All of which can be reached with just a short drive from Mint Hill.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) General Information 980-343-3000

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) Magnet Schools

980-343-5030

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) School Assignment 980-343-5335

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) www.cms.k12.nc.us

Charter Schools:(K-8) http://queensgrant.heritageacademies.com

Charter Schools:(High School)

Helping students successfully complete high school and transition smoothly to college.

http://qgphs.com

Bain Elementary 11524 Bain School Road Charlotte, NC 28227 980-343-6915

David W. Butler High School 1810 Matthews-Mint Hill Road Matthews, NC 28105 980-343-6300

Clear Creek Elementary 13501 Albemarle Road Charlotte, NC 28227 980-343-6922

Independence High School 1967 Patriot Drive Charlotte, NC 28227 980-343-6900

J.H. Gunn Elementary 7520 Harrisburg Road Charlotte, NC 28215 980-343-6477

Rocky River High School 10505 Clear Creek Commerce Dr. Mint Hill, NC 28227 980-344-0409

Lebanon Road Elementary 7300 Lebanon Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 980-343-3640

Queen’s Grant High School is a public charter school that has open enrollment. Our top-notch staff is willing to do whatever it takes to make sure your child succeeds in whatever endeavours they choose.

It’s all part of our commitment to providing a truly nurturing environment

Charter Schools (Tuition Free)

Mint Hill Middle School 11501 Idlewild Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 980-343-5439

Queen’s Grant Community (K-8) 6400 Matthews-Mint Hill Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-573-6611

Northeast Middle School 5960 Brickstone Drive Charlotte, NC 28227 980-343-6920

Queen’s Grant High School 10323 Idlewild Road Matthews, NC 28105 704-545-0736

that promotes academic excellence and fosters learning, creativity, independence and growth throughout the school day and beyond.

Queen’s Grant High School Limited Enrollment...Unlimited Possibilities

10323 Idlewild Road • Matthews, NC 28105 704-545-0736 • Fax: 704-545-0738 • www.qgphs.com HIGH AC ADEMIC AND BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS Mint Hill, North Carolina

23

By Rebecca Dickinson

Carlos Alvarez Cotera wanted to create a community of artists.

When he visited the Grace Building in 2005, he discovered Mint Hill Arts was only open twice a month. The center would open for a “gallery crawl,” when members and visitors viewed pieces of art.

“The Mint Hill Arts was in its infancy,” Carlos said. “I felt I wanted to help this place develop and grow. I felt it was sort of like fate.”

Cotera joined the Mint Hill Arts. The center soon asked him to become vicepresident. Although Cotera said he did not like titles, he accepted the position. Mint Hill Arts printed a newsletter, opened business hours during the week; and started pottery, painting, and drawing classes.

“This should be an arts center for the community, which is what it is,” Cotera said.

Mint Hill Arts confirmed 250 to 300 members have joined.

A chance to enjoy kinship with other artists was almost lost for Cotera. His family lived in Cuba. Cotera’s father worked as an economist. After he was fired, his father had to work as a night watchman.

“As a child, the environment was hostile,” Cotera said. “Because of your desire to leave the country, you are automatically an outcast.”

After five denials to leave Cuba for Costa Rica,

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

Cotera left with his brother and mother to live with relatives. His father was forced to stay behind.

“Parents understood their children would have a better life outside Cuba, and they would make the sacrifice,” Cotera said.

His father later rejoined the family.

In Costa Rica, Cotera worked in a ceramics shop. Passion for drawing and painting drove Cotera to sculpt his vision by watching other artists.

“Since I have no formal training and I don’t come from academia, I guess it gives me a different view of things,” Cotera said.

He established himself as an artist in Miami, Florida. Salvador Dali’s, The Crucifix and surrealist art inspired him. After years of braving hurricanes and year round heat, Cotera’s partner, Gus, and he moved to Mint Hill.

After he joined Mint Hill Arts, Cotera and other members shaped a new future. Gallery crawls flourished. Five pottery studios were constructed. Two different kiln sets and several wheels were made available.

“It’s a great place,” Cotera said. “Every community should have an arts’ center. It gives artists the opportunity to interact with each other.”

For more information about Carlos and to view some of his artwork go to www.artcotera.com

mint hill arts 7714 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. • Mint Hill, NC 28227 Phone: 980-226-5532 www.minthillarts.org Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Karrie Lawrence NMLS ID # 415260 Assistant Vice President Mortgage Loan Officer

Branch Banking & Trust Co. Mailcode: 500-23-01-00 11425 Lawyers Road Charlotte, NC 28227 (704) 954-2234 Fax (704) 573-3734 Mobile (704) 579-3195 klawrence@bbandt.com

Mint Hill Arts is designed to be an information and support network for local artists of all mediums and a source of educational and cultural enrichment to the public. Artists of all mediums and skill levels are welcome. Membership is open to all local artists and patrons of the arts.

Mint Hill Arts offers a full curriculum of classes for adults and children in oils, watercolor, drawing, jewelry, weaving, and more.

There is a gift shop which offers affordable, handmade works by member artists and artisans. The Mint Hill Arts gallery space is available as rental space for wine tasting, corporate and other events.

www.matthewsplayhouse.com

www.minthilltimes.com

Mint Hill, North Carolina

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festivals & events

Movies on the Lawn .......................................... May

There’s plenty to do throughout the year in Mint Hill, with a festival or special event celebrating the unique lifestyle and history of the region.

www.minthill.com The town of Mint Hill hosts free movies on the lawn every weekend in May starting at dusk. All the movies are family friendly so bring a blanket or lawn chair or sit on the grass. Check the town’s website for movie showings and further details.

Herb & Flower Festival ................................... April

Mint Hill Highland Games ............................. May

www.minthillhistory.com Go home from this festival with homegrown herbs, flowers, and vegetables.

You can meet and talk to some of the area’s master gardeners, herbalists and composters. Demonstrations will also take place.

www.minthillhighlandgames.com As one of Mint Hill’s favorite festivals, this annual event includes gathering of Scottish Clans & Parade of Tartans, rugby demonstrations, animal demonstrations, children’s activities, music, dancing, scottish cuisine, and a vendor village.

Discover Mint Hill ............................................ April At Discovery Square at Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. and Bain School Road www.discoverminthill.org Discover Mint Hill is a festival hosted by the Mint Hill Historical Society to promote the town and all it offers. Attendees can tour the historical village and have the chance to pan for gold, do laundry the old-fashioned way and watch re-enactors go about daily tasks such as sewing and knitting.

Town departments and civic organizations are on hand and festival goers can even ride a double-decker bus for a tour of the town.

There’s even a treasure hunt with prizes awarded. Come Discover Mint Hill!! - It’s all about your community! Activities include: Doubledecker bus historic tours, treasure hunt, Herb and Flower Festival, Mint Hill Arts Gallery, Historic Village craft demonstrations, programs and tours at your local library, meet Mint Hill’s public safety providerspolice and fire, get acquainted with the civic groups, and much more.

Photo by Michael Habernicht

26

Mint Hill, North Carolina

Mint Hill Farmers Market ...... May - September 9:00 am - 1:00 pm every Saturday At the Carl J. McEwen Historic Village The market supports local farms as a viable part of the community by providing a place for local farmers to sell their fresh produce directly to consumers. This convenient market strives to be a blend of fresh marketplace and gathering spot for all members of the community in Mint Hill and our surrounding neighbors.

June Tunes .......................................................... June At Mint Hill Town Hall 7151 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. www.minthill.com Music fills the air in downtown Mint HIll as the town hosts free outdoor concerts This weekly event takes place on the front lawn of Town Hall. All concerts begin at 7:30 pm and are free to the public. It’s a fun event and the perfect way to spend a summer evening with friends and family.

National Night Out ....................................... August

Salute To Veterans ................................. November

www.minthill.com Sponsored by the Mint HIll Police Department, this is a community-police awareness-raising event held the first Tuesday of August. There is food, fun, and games for all ages along with helpful information to help prevent you from becoming a victim of crime. The event is free and open to all residents of Mint Hill.

This tribute to veterans of all wars takes place on Friday for school students and Saturday for the public. Friday's school program focuses on the civil war. Presenters and re -enactors will offer students a hands on experience in history. Reservations are required. On Saturday the public is invited to visit the exhibits of civil war and other military memorabilia. Call 704-573-0726.

Sunday Afternoon In The Park ................. August www.minthill.com This family friendly event at the Park on Wilgrove features artists and musicians who display, perform, demonstrate and sell their products.

Admission is free. This event is hosted by the town of Mint Hill.

Mint Hill Madness ................................. September www.minthillchamberofcommerce.com Mint Hill Madness is an annual familyfriendly weekend festival which celebrates the arrival of Fall. It is our community’s largest event drawing 30,000+ into the Mint Hill area.

The event takes place in the downtown area of Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. & Lawyers Rd and offers Live Music & Entertainment, Rides, Carnival Games, Arts & Crafts, Fair Food, Miss Mint Hill Beauty Pageant, Annual Parade & Fireworks!

This event is hosted by the Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce on the last weekend in September each year. For activity agenda visit: www.minthillchamberofcommerce/Madness or call 704-573-8282.

Veteran's Breakfast ................................ November www.minthill.com www.minthillchamberofcommerce.com The Town of Mint Hill & The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce host breakfast every year to honor our local veterans.

Christmas Tree Lighting ...................... December www.minthill.com Area residents are invited to enjoy homemade cookies, cocoa & cider served

by Town officials as the Town's tree is lit at the start of the holiday season.

Christmas Tea .......................................... December Come celebrate the season at the Holiday Tea in the Ashcraft Schoolhouse. It is a wonderful time to visit with friends, enjoy delicious treats and old time charm in the schoolhouse. Call 704-545-4928 to make reservations. You can also visit the Village Christmas Shoppe. Call 704-573-0726 for for more information regarding times and days.

Senior Christmas Party ......................... December www.minthillchamberofcommerce.com Every year the Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce celebrates the holidays by providing lunch & entertainment to area senior citizens. The event takes place the first Saturday of December and is free to Mint Hill residents.

Call 704-573-8282 for details.

Mint Hill, North Carolina

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recreation

Recreation in Mint Hill and its surrounding area is abounding, offering residents and visitors an array of outdoor pastimes sure to fit every interest. The Mint Hill Parks and Recreation Department maintains two public parks with many amenities including facilities to rent for special occasions.

Mint Hill Parks & Recreation Department PO Box 23457 7151 Matthews-Mint Hill Road • Mint Hill, NC 28227 Phone: 704-545-9726 • Fax: 704-545-0802 Contact: Michelle Farrar .........704-545-9726 ext 100 www.minthill.com

Park on Fairview 8850 Fairview Road • Mint Hill, NC 28227 Fairview Park officially opened in 1997. This park is over 55 acres in size with amenities for all ages.

There are two soccer fields surrounded by an asphalt bike/roller blade path. The park has attracted the interest of many soccer players throughout the area. Other amenities include a full concession stand, large restrooms, racquetball and tennis courts, beach volleyball courts, and a nine hole disc golf course that winds its way through the natural areas of the park. The nature trail is planted with a wide range of plants and trees native to this part of the North Carolina.

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Mint Hill Sports Complex 9700 Brief Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 www.mhaa.us The Mint Hill Sports Complex is maintained by the Mint Hill Athletic Association. This organization provides a source of athletic opportunities for the youth of Mint Hill and its surrounding communities such as baseball, basketball, cheerleading, football, soccer, and softball to boys and girls ages 4-16.

Numerous golf courses and clubs are positioned within a 30-minute drive from Mint Hill, with two located in the town. The Olde Sycamore Golf Plantation is an 18-hole, semi private golf club nestled among a mature forest of hardwoods only a few minutes from I-485. Pine Lake Country Club has been providing its members and guests golf and fun for over fifty years.

This full-service country club offers recreational activities such as golf, tennis & fitness, and swimming as well as superb dining options.

Park on Wilgrove

Mecklenburg County Park & Recreation

7750 Jim Harper Lane • Mint Hill, NC 28227 The Park on Wilgrove offers a variety of activities. This was the first municipal park in Town dating back to 1974. It currently has a lighted softball field, two lighted tennis courts, two non- lighted courts, natural walking trail that circles the perimeter of the park, Photo by Dale Mayberry several large and small picnic areas, and a large variety of playground equipment for children to enjoy.

704-336-7600 or call 311 for camps, programs, leagues, and other activities www.charmeck.org/Departments/Park+and+Rec/Home.htm There are several other parks located near Mint Hill which are maintained by the Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation. This county department is home to 210 parks and facilities located on more than 17,600 acres of parkland throughout Mecklenburg County. For your four-legged friends there are several dog parks located throughout the county. The closest one to Mint Hill is Barkingham Park located at Reedy Creek Park, 2900 Rocky River Road, Charlotte, NC. This is a four-acre, fenced-in, off-leash area for dogs to run and play.

Mint Hill, North Carolina

library 6840 Matthews-Mint Hill Road • Mint Hill, NC 28227 Phone: 704-416-5200 www.cmlibrary.org/Locations/branches.asp?id=13 Our present library was completed in 1999 and serves the town of Mint Hill and surrounding communities. Located in the downtown area, the library offers over 60,000 volumes, computers, study tables and multiple reading areas. There is something for everyone. Visit the library today! Call or go to the website for operating hours.

post office

After School Program Traditional Tae Kwon Do

8920 Lawyers Road • Charlotte, NC 28227 Phone: 704-573-0549 www.usps.com

Philippine Combatives Strength & Conditioning Olympic Sparring Program Adult Boot Camp

Mint Hill Carpets, Inc.

Whether your are interested in our programs for mental or physical well being, King Tiger offers a number of programs that will fit your developmental needs and your busy schedule as well.

Commercial and Residential

6908 Matthews-Mint Hill Road • Suite 320 Mint Hill, NC 28227

704-545-7422

Children • Men • Women 6904-510 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. Mint Hill, NC

~ FAMILY BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS ~

Brad Tart & Trudy Tart

www.KingTigerCharlotte.com Come in and ask how to receive your

FREE INTRO LESSON

MONROE HARDWARE Brand Names you know and trust at competitive prices.

Knowledgable and friendly service you expect.

• Building Materials • Electrical • Plumbing • Hardware • Welding • Automotive • Housewares • Paints • Yard Power Equipment• Feed & Animal Supplies • Power & Hand Tools • Toys & Gifts • Clothing & Footwear • And Much More! ~ Delivery Available ~ Dealers For: Carhartt, Georgia and Rocky Boot, Nutrena, Purina, Scag, Stihl, Echo, Milwaukee, DeWalt, SK Hand Tools, W.R. Case, Buck, Schrade, Remington, Winchester, Valspar, Lodge Store Hours: Monday thru Saturday 7am - 7pm | Sunday 11:30am-4:30pm

6912 Matthews-Mint Hill Rd. • Mint Hill, NC (In the Mint Hill Festival Shopping Center)

704-526-2776 • Fax: 704-545-9137 Mint Hill, North Carolina

29

north carolina korean war veterans memorial The residents of Mint Hill will soon be able to say they have something that no other town in the state has. The North Carolina Korean War Veterans Memorial is one of a kind. When it is completed the Memorial will honor North Carolinians who fought–and are still serving–to keep South Korea free from tyranny. It is slated for completion no later than June, 2012.

Chapter 265 of the N. C. Korean War Veteran’s Association which is headquartered in Mint Hill and whose membership includes Korean War and Korean service veterans as well as friends and families of those who served and continue to serve in Korea is building the memorial.

It will be located at the Park on Fairview which is at the intersection of NC highway 218 and Interstate 485. It will be easily accessible to visitors from North and South Carolina and other states. It is being funded through several sources including the sales of memorial and honor pavers, local businesses, the Town of Mint Hill, Korean/American Associations, and from the State of North Carolina and the government of South Korea.

For more information contact Chapter 265 of the Korean War Veterans Association at the following address: NC Korean War Veterans Association, PO Box 690158, Charlotte NC 28227-7002 or visit www.nckwmemorial.org

civic/youth groups Mecklenburg County Council Boy Scouts of America 1410 E. 7th Street Charlotte, NC 28204 704-333-5471 www.mccscouting.org

Matthews-Mint Hill Optimist Club P.O. Box 1481 Matthews, NC 28106 704-560-9202 www.minthilloptimistclub.org

Earp-Williams VFW #4059 11345 Bain Schol Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-3119

Mint Hill Arts 7714 Matthews-Mint Hill Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 980-226-5532 www.minthillarts.org

Eastern Star Mint Hill Chapter #353 P.O. Box 691742 Mint Hill, NC 28227 Girl Scouts, Hornets’ Nest Council 7007 Idlewild Road Charlotte, NC 28212 704-731-6500 www.hngirlscouts.org Kiwanis Club of Mint Hill P.O. Box 23450 Charlotte, NC 28227 704-753-4971

Mint Hill Athletic Association 7205 Clubhouse Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-1180 www.mhaa.us

voter registration Mint Hill Lions Club 13701 Thompson Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-573-2188 www.minthilllions.com Mint Hill Masonic Lodge #742 10224 Lawyers Road Charlotte, NC 28227 704-545-5583 Mint Hill Scottish Society 5832 Clubhouse Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-8705 www.minthillhighlandgames.com

Mint Hill Herb Guild 12303 Bain School Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-4928

Mint Hill Women’s Club P.O. Box 6952 Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-545-6231 www.minthillwc.com

Mint Hill Historical Society 7601 Matthews-Mint Hill Road Mint Hill, NC 28227 704-573-2188 www.minthillhistory.com

Rotary Club of Mint Hill P.O. Box 690478 Charlotte, NC 28227 704-573-6547

Mecklenburg County Board of Elections 741 Kenilworth Avenue Suite 202 Charlotte, NC 28204 Ph: 704-336-2133 Fax: 704-343-0537 www.meckboe.org

drivers license & registration Driver's License Examining Office 6635 Executive Circle Suite 130 Charlotte, NC 28212 Ph: 704-531-5563 NC Motor Vehicle Tag/Registration Office 5622 E. Independence Boulevard Suite 124 Charlotte Ph: 704-535-2525 www.ncdot.org/dmv

Having a Party?

DULIN MECHANICAL H E AT I N G & C O O L I N G

The Mint Hill Lion’s Club does so much more than sell brooms!

We rent tents, chairs & even two-way radios!

SINCE 1962

License #14773

• $35 OFF Any Repair 10% OFF Precision Tune-Up • 24–Hour Emergency Service • Geothermal & Solar Assist Heat Pumps • Sales, Service & Installation

7 0 4 - 4 5 5 - 1218

704-641-3431 www.minthilllions.com ALL PROCEEDS DEDICTED TO HELPING CLINICAL EYE RESEARCH AND HEARING DISABILITIES

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Mint Hill, North Carolina

• 30% up to $500.00 on qualified high efficiency equipment - exp. 12/31/2011 • 30% Federal Tax Credit on Geothermal & Solar Assist Heat Pumps - exp. 12/31/2016 • 35% NC State Tax Credit on Geothermal & Solar Assist Heat Pumps - exp. 12/01/2015

Financing Available - We Accept Visa or MasterCard

Mint Hill, North Carolina

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phone numbers & links FIRE • POLICE • AMBULANCE .... 911

Utilities Electric Duke Energy ............................................. 800-877-9898 www.duke-energy.com

Mint Hill Police Deptartment ................... 704-545-1085 (non-emergency) Mint Hill Fire Deptartment ....................... 704-545-4866 (non-emergency) Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Deptartment (non-emergency)..................................................... 311 If outside Charlotte ................................. 704-336-7600

Mecklenburg Co. Area Mental Health ..... 704-336-6404 Mecklenburg Co. Board of Elections ...... 704-336-2133

Union Power Cooperative ......................... 704-289-3145 www.union-power.com

Mecklenburg Co. Manager’s Office....... 704-336-2472

Gas Piedmont Natural Gas ................................ 800-752-7504 www.piedmontng.com

Veterans Services .................................. 704-336-2102

Water Charlotte-Mecklenburg Utilities ................. 704-336-2211 www.charmeck.org/Departments/Utilities

Homeless Support Services ....................704-926-0617 Women's Commission .............................704-336-3210 Mecklenburg Co. Health Department ..... 704-336-4700 Mecklenburg Co. Department of Social Services ........................ 704-336-3000

Telephone AT&T ......................................................... 888-757-6500 www.att.com

CARE line ................................. 704-336-CARE (2273) Help keep your neighbors safe, report child abuse, abuse of senoirs, or adults with disabilities.

NC Highway Patrol ................................. 919-733-3861 (non-emergency)

Cable Charlotte Time Warner .............................. 704-289-3168 www.twcarolina.com

Mecklenburg Co. Adult Substance Abuse Services ........................ 704-336-6404

Medical Care Carolinas Medical Center ....................... 704-355-2000 www.carolinasmedicalcenter.org

Garbage Collection RCS, Inc. .................................................. 704-545-9726 www.minthill.com

Carolinas Medical Center - Mercy .......... 704-379-5000 www.cmc-mercy.org

Resident Recycling Center Hickory Grove Recycling Center at 8007 Pence Road .......................... 704-376-9359 www.charmeck.org

Crime Stoppers Tip Line ......................... 704-334-1600 Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) .................................... 704-336-2543

Carolinas Medical Center - Mint Hill Medical Plaza Urgent Care Carolinas HealthCare Urgent Care - Mint Hill .................. 704-863-9600 www.carolinashealthcareurgentcare.org Internal Medicine Charlotte Medical Clinic ................... 704-863-9500 www.charlottemedical.org Pediatrics University Pediatrics ........................ 704-863-9550 www.universitypeds.org Obstetrics/Gynecology Greater Carolinas Women’s Center .. 704-547-0858 www.gcwomenscenter.org Presbyterian Hospital - Matthews ........... 704-384-6500 www.presbyterian.org Presbyterian Hospital - Downtown ......... 704-383-4000 Presbyterian Mint Hill Family Practice .... 704-384-8760 http://practices.novanthealth.org/minthillfp/home/ Levine Children’s Hospital ..................... 704-381-2000 www.levinechildrenshospital.org North Carolina Poison Control Voice/TDD/TTY ................................... 1-800-222-1222 Federal Do-Not-Call Lists You can register by dialing .................. 1-888-382-1222 or register on-line at www.donotcall.gov Parental Stress Help Line ....................... 800-367-2543 National Center for Missing & Exploited Children .................................. 800-843-5678 American Red Cross Greater Carolinas Chapter ..................... 704-376-1661 United Family Services .......................... 704-332-9034

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Charlotte-Mecklenburg County www.charmeck.org

Mint Hill, North Carolina

Just 1 Call ............................................... 704-432-1111 A one-stop source of information and assistance for senior citizens, adults with disabilities, caregivers and service providers.

Mecklenburg County. Park and Recreation ............. 311 or 704-336-7600 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools ............. 980-343-3000 www.cms.k12.nc.us

Miscellaneous Call Before You Dig ................................... 704-376-9359

Three Digit Dialing

Mint Hill Government

Information Line ...................................................... 311 311 is the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County's phone number for non-emergency services and government information: Animals, Taxes, Road Improvements, Garbage and Recycling Pickup, Non-life Threatening Emergencies, Parks, Utility Services, and Storm Water. If you are calling from outside Mecklenburg County or if your cellular carrier will not connect you to 311, dial 704-336-7600.

Town Hall ................................................ 704-545-9726 Town Manager - Brian Welch ... 704-545-9726 ext. 118 Mayor - Ted Biggers ................. 704-545-9727 ext. 119 Mayor Pro-Tem - Lloyd Austin ... 704-545-9727 ext. 210 Commissioner - Carl Ellington ... 704-545-9727 ext. 213 Commissioner - Brenda McRae .. 704-545-9727 ext. 212

Social Services ...................................................... 211

Commissioner - Tina Ross ........ 704-545-9727 ext. 211

Directory Assistance ............................................... 411

Town Clerk - Beth Hamrick ........ 704-545-9727 ext. 113

North Carolina Road Conditions ............................. 511

Parks & Recreation - Michelle Farrar ...... 704-545-9727

Connecting Line For Speech/Hearing Impaired ...... 711

Libraries www.plcmc.org

Transportation

Mint Hill Branch ...................................... 704-545-3932

Department of Transportation (DOT) .. 1-877-DOT-4YOU www.ncdot.org

Charlotte-Meck. Main Library ................... 704-336-2725

NCDOT DMV .......................................... 919-715-7000 www.ncdot.org/dmv

Oganizations

Driver’s License - Charlotte East Office ... 704-531-5563

Mint Hill Arts ........................................... 980-226-5532 www.minthillarts.org

Vehicle & License Plate Renewal Office ... 704-535-2525

Mint Hill Athletic Association ................... 704-545-4663 www.mhaa.us Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce .............. 704-573-8282 www.minthillchamber.com Mint Hill Historical Society ...................... 704-573-0726 www.minthillhistory.com

Amtrak ................................................. 1-800-872-7245 www.amtrak.com Charlotte Douglas International Airport .... 704-359-4013 http://charlottedouglasintlairport.com/ Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) .... 704-336-RIDE www.ridetransit.org

www.charlottemedical.org

www.minthillprimarycare.org

www.universitypeds.org

www.gcwomenscenter.org

www.carolinashealthcareurgentcare.org