CHAIRMAN’S LETTER - LEDA · Jeff Emory City Manager City of Lincolnton Bo King King’s Office Supply LEDA BO ard O f direct O rs LEDAex Offici O s LEDAstaff LEDA Private Investors

2007•2008 ANNUAL REPOR T

The 2007-2008 fiscal year marked a truly significant period of accomplishment for the Lincoln

Economic Development Association. Based upon the collaboration and teamwork demonstrated

among LEDA, Lincoln County, and the City of Lincolnton, our community was strengthened even

as external economic conditions grew more challenging.

Our year culminated in an extremely gratifying fashion as LEDA’s pattern of success was recog-

nized regionally through our receipt of the 2008 Jerry Award - an honor bestowed each year by

the Charlotte Regional Partnership on both a public and private sector entity which make lasting

contributions to the economic health of the sixteen county Charlotte region.

The past several years our achievements have been earned through the creative use of finite

resources bolstered by the seemingly limitless energy of our economic development team and

its excellent leader Barry Matherly. In 2008, through the foresight and strong financial support

of our Board of County Commissioners, supplemented by the generosity and commitment of the

City of Lincolnton, Fifth Third Bank and 41 other private sector partners, funds were secured to

construct a new LEDA corporate office which will serve as a catalyst for effective industry recruit-

ment and reinforce the proud image of downtown Lincolnton.

Our roster of accomplishments during the past year is too extensive to describe in its entirety,

but when one considers just a sampling of our success – such as expansion of the Lincoln

County Industrial Park; $60 million of investment by expansions of existing industry; ribbon

cuttings for the opening of Sabo, GE Security and United Plate Glass; the addition of a Business

Development Manager position to complement the vital role of our Existing Business Manager

position; and educational outreach to our business community through the establishment of

our Lincoln Leaders Seminars – it is evident that LEDA was extremely focused on supporting our

mission of promoting, encouraging, and assisting the economic development, welfare and qual-

ity of life throughout Lincoln County.

C H A I R M A N ’ S L E T T E R

502 East Main StreetLincolnton, NC 28092

Tel: 704-732-1511Fax: 704-736-8451

Email: [email protected]: www.lincolneda.org

www.lakenormaneda.org

Lincoln Economic Development Association

Pete Acker, Chairman

Pete Acker, Chairman

Panico PeresSabo USA

Judi MortonManagerEmployment Security Commission

George WoodCounty ManagerLincoln County

Rhonda HunterOperations Director

Crystal GettysExisting Business Manager/Assistant Director

Adam SpillmanResearch Associate

Mitch MillerBusiness Development Coordinator

Pete AckerCEO, Carolinas Medical Center - LincolnPosition: Chairman

Fred HouserCouncilman, City of LincolntonPosition: Vice Chairman

Tom AndersonAnderson REH, LLC Managing PartnerPosition: Treasurer

Barry MatherlyExecutive Director, Lincoln Economic Development AssociationPosition: Secretary

George ArenaLincoln County Board ofCommissioners

Mike ClineCarolina Trust Bank

John GillelandMayor, City of Lincolnton

Lincoln Economic Development Association July 2009 • June 2010 ANNUAL REPORT

LEDAOfficers

Rosalind WelderDean, Lincoln CampusGaston College

Dr. David MartinSuperintendentLincoln County Schools

Ken KindleyPresidentChamber of Commerce

Jeff EmoryCity ManagerCity of Lincolnton

Bo KingKing’s Office Supply

LEDABOard Of directOrs

LEDAex OfficiOs

LEDAstaff

LEDA Private Investors

cOnstructiOnCarolina Metal Buildings ~ Dwight Smith

Central Carolina Sprinkler Co Inc ~ Roger WilliamsDenver Construction ~ Kenneth TuckerHope Springs Builders ~ Walter ClarkHoward Construction ~ Tom Howard

develOpersAnderson Properties ~ John Anderson

Choate Construction Co ~ Dave PriesterDenver Industrial Park ~ Lee KillianHecht Development ~ Robert Hecht

Piedmont Companies ~ Willie HeafnerThe Keith Corporation ~ Alan Lewis

educatiOnLincoln Campus - Gaston College ~ Rosalind Welder

Lincoln County Schools ~ Dr David Martin

GOlf/cOuntry cluBsVerdict Golf & Country Club–Verdict Ridge

Development ~ Scott Knox

HOspitalityHome Place Restaurant & Catering ~ David Heafner

Mitchem’s Kitchen ~ Carrol Mitchem

insuranceJames M Moore & Associates ~ Jim MooreLincoln Mutual Insurance ~ W E Coates Jr

Nationwide Insurance ~ Jackie SipeWatson Insurance Agency ~ Neal Rhyne

investment/financial servicesEdward Jones ~ Buddy Collins

James M Moore & Associates ~ Bo MooreRhyne Financial ~ Jody Rhyne

medicalCMC - Lincoln ~ Pete Acker

Austin Orthodontics ~ Dr Steven AustinAdvanced Family Eye Care ~ Dr Amanda Barker

John L Cloninger DDS PA ~ Dr Les CloningerRobert T Cloninger DDS ~ Dr Robert Cloninger

Drs Darab & Richardson ~ Dr David J DarabR Keith Dedmond DDS PA ~ Dr Keith Dedmond

Pulmonary Clinic of the Carolinas ~ E Michael Eziri MDHamilton Orthodontics ~ Dr Todd Hamilton

Animal Hospital of Cornelius ~ Dr Wayne Jones DVMLincolnton Animal Hospital ~ Dr Karen Miller DVM

John L Lassiter DDS PA ~ Dr John LassiterLHS Orthopaedics ~ Drs Dan Davis & Joanne Labriola

Carolina Eye Care ~ Dr Scott NishekRichard R Pence DDS MAGD ~ Dr Richard Pence

LEDA INVESTORSSeptember 2009 – August 2010


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Private investors Listing

accOuntantsMiller Sherrill Blake

Eagle CPA PA ~ Cynthia Sherrill

advertisinG/marketinG/printinGA-2-Z Promotional Products ~ Jack Funk

Burke Communications ~ Jack BurkeKatie Wood Inc ~ Aaron Wood

Lincoln Printing Services ~ Hilmi AriSLD Unlimited ~ Sherre’ DeMao

arcHitects/enGineersCES Group Inc ~ Chuck Heleine

attOrneysGarfinkel Immigration Law ~ Steven Garfinkel

Kennedy & Wulfhorst PA ~ Todd WulfhorstKnox Law Center ~ Eddie & Frances KnoxJonas Law Firm PLLC ~ Johnathan Rhyne

autOmOtiveAbernethy Chevrolet ~ Mitch Abernethy

BankinGBB&T ~ Chuck Long

Carolina Trust Bank ~ Mike ClineFifth Third Bank ~ Rich Levy

First Citizens Bank ~ Debbie SipeFirst Federal Savings Bank ~ C D Stroup III

First National Bank ~ Joe CrewsPeoples Bank ~ Danny Richard

civic/cOmmunityLC Coalition Against Child Abuse ~ Sherry Reinhardt

Lincoln County Family YMCA ~ Jenny SigmonUnited Way Lincoln County ~ Yerby Ray

cOmmercialBrady Services ~ Carrie Bordeaux

Family Coin Laundry ~ Lloyd TrotterFunderburk Batteries ~ Buddy Funderburk

GDS Inc ~ Jerry HodgeGDS Inc ~ Barry Burleson

Guardian Security of NC Inc ~ Gerald ParkIntegrity Computer Solutions ~ Danny Elmore

King’s Office Supply ~ Bo KingPiedmont Vending Company ~ Zed Bradley

UPS Store ~ Steve & LouAnn CainWal-Mart ~ Steve Land

Warlick Funeral Home ~ L D (Bud) Warlick Jr

mOtOr spOrtsCalico Coatings ~ Tracy Trotter

East Lincoln Speedway ~ Shawn ParkerHerbert Performance Parts ~ Doug Herbert

JMC Racing ~ Michael & Jackie Colucci

real estateAbernethy Realty ~ David Abernethy

Allen Tate Realtors ~ Joe & Beth YarbroughApple Realty ~ Marsha Jordan

BCB Investments ~ David DupreeCentury 21 Town & Country ~ Donna Beal

Clark Properties Inc ~ David Clark JrLackey Whitley & Milholland ~ Brad Whitley

Lincoln Bonded Warehouse ~ John LinebergerLincoln Co Board of Realtors ~ Kathy Hendricks

Prudential Carolinas Realty ~ Doug CoreSullivan Property Owner ~ Chad Gore

staffinGApogee Resource Services LLC ~ Kevin Kelly

Barrett Business Service ~ Susan Eurey Express Employment Professionals ~ Kevin Roberge

Lincoln Personnel Inc ~ Terry HoyleLincoln Staffing ~ Stephen StarnesStaffmasters USA ~ Courtney Dean

truckinGCatawba Transport Group ~ Danny Abernathy

Houser Transport Inc ~ Sam Houser

utilityAT&T ~ Todd Lanham

Duke Energy Carolinas ~ Tammy Trexler WhaleyEnergyUnited ~ Tim Holder

Nisbit Oil ~ Rhodes & Beal Oil Co ~ Jimmy WhitePiedmont Natural Gas ~ Michael Durham

Rutherford EMC ~ Randy WardTimes Oil ~ Mark Boyd

industriesActavis Corp ~ Greg Sherwood

Active Manufacturing ~ Peter DowAllied Separation Tech Inc ~ Lorie Williams

American Tire Distributors ~ Ray EureyAnatech Ltd ~ George Barr

Blum Inc ~ Michael GeisCA Zimmer Organ Builders ~ Cornel Zimmer

Carolina Roller & Supply ~ Mack HarveyCataler North America ~ Al Alvarez

Crate&Barrel ~ John LingDellinger Precast Inc ~ Gary Dellinger

Duke Energy ~ Paul Beatty Hof Textiles ~ Lothar Hackler

Kirk & Matz ~ Victor MatzLarry Grant & Company ~ Larry Grant

Leonard Automatics Inc ~ Jeff FrushtickLucky Country ~ Michael BrattMcMurray Fabrics ~ Mike Clark

M Conley Company ~ Robert Stewart IIIM Conley Company ~ Doug Edwards

Modacam Inc ~ Bud TschudinMohican Mills Inc ~ Jerry Deese

Packaging Unlimited ~ John MorelR W Garcia ~ Greg Huffstetler

Robert Bosch Tool Corp ~ David LeeRobert Bosch Tool Corp Dist ~ Jeanette Hovis

RSI Home Products Mfg ~ Robert HunterSabo USA ~ Marcos Sant’Anna

Spantek ~ Rod MillerSteele Rubber Products Inc ~ John Dancoff

The Timken Company ~ Paul HubacherUnited Plate Glass ~ Mike Cully

United Technologies ~ Mike VannVT LeeBoy Inc ~ Dennis Emo

Wireway/Husky Corp ~ Ron Young

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July 2009 • June 2010 ANNUAL REPORT

individuals Jim Beam Fred Houser

Jerry Cochrane Harold Howard Jr

Martin Eaddy Sharon Patton

Neil Finger Brad Rivers

Jim Foreman Betty Setzer

Darrell Gettys Robert Tull

Carl Henline Dr Jim Watson


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July 23, 2009

LEDA Lands Expanded Metal Company

Spantek, based in Hopkins, MN will be moving their Greensboro, NC manufacturing facility to Lincoln County. The expanded metal company will occupy the former RSI Home Products, Semi-Custom 60,000 square foot facility on Generals Boulevard. Upgrades to the RSI facility have already begun and the plan is to be up and running by October 2009. By the end of December Spantek will employ up to fifteen people with plans to increase that number to twenty-five within a year and a half.

Founded in 1963, Spantek is an ISO 9001:2000 certified manufacturer of expanded metal and is a recognized leader in the expanded metal industry; designing and manufacturing custom-sized expanded metal coils and blanks for original equipment manufacturers.

“We are excited about the move to Lincolnton. It was determined that we should be in the Charlotte area—Lincolnton was the ideal place. Our initial association with civic and business leaders, LEDA staff and various people in the community reinforced this decision.”

– Rod Miller, Spantek President

August 24, 2009

Ostec Industries looks to grow in Lincoln County

Ostec Industries announced on August 24, 2009 that it would begin its operation occupying a 12,000 square foot facility located in the Denver Industrial Park. The company plans to invest approximately $2,000,000 in the facility and equipment, initially bringing in 5 jobs.

The company is a CNC Swiss type lathe screw machine shop which caters to the specialized requirements of the Military, Electronics, Aerospace, Medical and Dental industries. Ostec has a track record of being one of the preferred vendors of the high quality conscious military, commercial and automotive industries.

“Lincoln County had everything we were looking for. We were able to find the building that best suited our operation and with the support from the Lincoln Economic Development Association (LEDA) and Gaston College this experience has been an easy transition.”

– Ostec President Richard Coste

September 2009

AirBorn Coatings locates in Denver

AirBorn’s East Coast based facility located on Hwy. 16 in Denver provides Aluminum Ceramic Coatings, Powder Coatings, Dry Film Coatings, and Specialty Coatings. Specializing in small to medium size production runs, automotive products and machine components, the factories have full cleaning, degreasing and stripping/blasting capabilities. Skilled operators manually apply the coatings providing the flexibility to accommodate a variety of component sizes and shapes, to ensure complete, even coverage.

LEDA ANNOUNCEMENTS

December 8, 2009

Major Business Park to be Developed Off Hwy. 16

A major business park will be built off Optimist Club Road near the Highway 16 Bypass. Airlie Business Park at Ingleside will be the largest business park in East Lincoln and will be more than four times larger than Balsom Ridge. At 231 acres, it will be more than 100 acres larger than the Denver Industrial Park, the current larg-est business park in East Lincoln.

This will primarily be a business park but could support back office or call centers. We think it will be ideal for motorsports and international companies. Depending on the size of the buildings, we would expect 20-25 companies in the park repre-senting over 2 million square feet of space.

David Clark, Jr. is enthusiastic about the business park. “Allison, Walter, Caroline and I are excited at the prospect of helping to create a Class “A” Business Park in our community that will increase our tax base and bring jobs at a time we desperately need them. It will be especially satisfying to us knowing we are helping achieve a vision of our father.”

– David Clark, Jr. Owner Airlie Business Park at Ingleside

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April 7, 2010

Hampton Inn Hotel Recruited

The Lincoln Economic Development Association worked with Touchstone Hospitality Inc. on a 71-room Hampton Inn Hotel in Lincolnton. Greenwood, South Carolina-based Touchstone Hospitality will build the hotel on Roper Road and owns it. The facility features a fitness center, a pool and a business center. It offers complimentary breakfast, free local telephone calls and free in-room movies. Ninety-five percent of rooms are designated as nonsmoking. The project required approval from Virginia-based Hilton Worldwide, parent company of Hampton Inn, and the City of Lincolnton.

March 2010

Gray Motorsports Opens State-of-the-Art Facility in Denver

S.K.I. Racing, Inc. and Gray Motorsports are headquartered in a 22,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility in Denver, NC. The race team is housed in 7,200 square feet and the remaining 14,800 square feet is home to a Pro Stock engine development assembly and testing facility where Gray Motorsports operates their engine development program. There are plans in the very near future to expand the engine development program to other classes.

June 8, 2010

Automotive Company Expands in Lincoln County

Cataler North America at Lincoln County Industrial Park celebrated the groundbreaking for its second building expansion since their start of production in 2002. This expansion will add 61,000 SF to its existing facility, as well as additional parking lot space.

Headquartered in Kakegawa, Japan, Cataler is a leading automotive catalyst manufacturer, and parts supplier for Toyota, GM and Subaru. The catalyst is a key component in vehicle emissions technology. Cataler is committed to providing cost-effective solutions that will benefit society through a cleaner environment.

Building construction is expected to begin immediately and continue into January 2011. Current investment plans include equipment installation over the next two years. Soon thereafter, Cataler expects to invest in additional equipment needed to strengthen future business opportunities. “We are honored to have Cataler as a part of our community, in these days of economic uncertainty it is truly exciting to see a company expanding in Lincoln County. I want to thank Cataler North America for their continued commitment to Lincoln County and to LEDA for their efforts in working to keep existing businesses in our county.”

– Alex Patton, Chairman Lincoln County Board of Commissioners

“We are pleased that Cataler North America is in a position once again to expand their facility, this is a positive and welcomed example in these economic times. We appreciate their continued contribution to Lincoln County and look forward to their future success.”

– Lincoln Economic Development Association, Chairman Pete Acker

LEDA EXPANSIONS


August 18, 2009

Hof Textiles Inc. continues to expand by investing $1,500,000

According to HOF Textiles CEO, Dr. Lothar Hackler, “This new $1.5 million investment is the third major investment in additional production capacity within the last four years, supporting our ambi-tious goals of growth. With this expansion we will be able to supply a new class of nonwovens for highly demanding automotive applications such as wheel housing liners and nonwovens in high temperature applications.”

The production on the new equipment is scheduled to start in February 2010. This latest expansion will ultimately create at least 16 new jobs consisting of production operators, maintenance and quality lab personnel.

“This will substitute products that are currently being imported from our parent company in Germany and will allow more products to be produced locally here in Lincolnton. The impact of this expansion will increase sales and give us the ability to react to our customers needs faster and further grow our business.”

– Dr. Lothar Hackler, CEO, Hof Textiles

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LEDA RIBBON CUTTINGSAugust 5, 2009

A Renovation Celebration for M. Conley Co.

A ribbon cutting ceremony for M. Conley Co. was celebrated on August 5, 2009 in order to commemorate the newly renovated facility. M. Conley Co. a full packaging equipment and

supply company as well as an all inclusive janitorial equipment and supply distribution

center carrying brands such as 3M, Duracell, Georgia Pacific, Hoover and Rubbermaid as well as many others. After many months of upgrading their facility, the company now has a showroom in order to more visibly display their products and give demonstrations of the machines they sell. There are future plans to create an audio visual room for webinars on new products and build a literature room. The Company is a family owned business dating back 100 years and is headquartered in Canton, OH. After obtaining a large packaging contract with The Timken Company, the M. Conley Co. established roots in Lincoln County over fifteen years ago. Today, the packaging and janitorial supply company is focusing on expanding their presence throughout Lincoln County.

“We are here for the long haul; we would like to see our grandkids celebrating our Lincoln County facili-ty's 100th anniversary. Not only are we a family owned company but we are family oriented in our Ohio location, we want to incorporate that same philosophy here in Lincoln County. Our company was founded on loyalty, trust and commitment and we find those same values and close relationships in this communi-ty.”

– Bob Stewart, III, COO, M. Conley Co.

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November 5, 2009

German Manufacturer Opens Facility in East Lincoln

Sennebogen, a German material handling equipment manufacturer, officially opened its new North American facility during a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by LEDA. Sennebogen's newly built 48,000 square foot facility is on Old Plank Road, near Blum, Inc. just off Highway 16 in the Lowesville community. The state-of-the-art facility is designed to accommodate Sennebogen's parts distribution, training and technical support center. Future plans include the manufacturing of certain parts for the green machine line; it will also host a simulator in order to train operators in-house. The Lincoln County facility will ensure Sennebogen's exceptional customer service and support with efficient access to parts, equipment, and technical support.

“We are excited to be in our new facility and appreciate all the support we have received from the Lincoln Economic Development Association; they have been only a phone call away for any of our questions and/or concerns.” –Constantino Lannes, President, Sennebogen


LEDA


May 20, 2010

Dedication of the New Terminal

The new terminal at the Lincolnton-Lincoln County Regional Airport was unveiled through a Ribbon Cutting assisted by LEDA. The 1.5 million dollar project was unveiled during an open house and luncheon. The new building includes a conference room open for community use and a large area for people waiting on flight arrivals. Airplane pilots will have new accommodations not available in the past. Facilities now include a snooze room, shower and a kitchen. The additions will likely make the Lincoln airport more desirable for corporate and private jets. A new automated weather station will also now run from the airport. The equipment will provide information for the area and includes a GPS system that will aid pilots in landing during inclement weather. The state of North Carolina, the county and

the city, Duke Energy and private donations funded the expansion.

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February 9, 2010

Minnesota Company Celebrates the Opening of their Facility

After officially occupying the former RSI Marble facility located off Generals Blvd. in October of 2009, Spantek celebrated with a ribbon cutting ceremony organized by LEDA. Headquartered in Hopkins, MN Spantek moved its North Carolina plant from Greensboro to Lincolnton in order to better serve their current clients and develop new clients throughout the east and southeastern corridor. Spantek is an ISO 9001:2000 certified manufacturer of expanded metal and is a recog-nized leader in the expanded metal industry, designing and manufacturing custom-sized expanded metal coils and blanks for original equipment manufacturers. Spantek’s decision to re-locate to Lincoln County looks to be a positive move; the expanded metal company has already obtained several customers here locally.

“Due to growth, Spantek acquired a facility in Greensboro, NC ten years ago; within that ten year span, that business doubled. We as a company then decided that in order to continue that growth we needed to be within a fifty mile range of our key customers. After looking at five coun-ties within the Charlotte Region and four different facilities, we decided that Lincolnton was by far the most helpful, and would be the most rewarding for us. This is a great community and we are proud to be a part of it now. It goes without saying, the employees of Spantek are the ones that make it all happen and we appreciate each one.”

–Rod Miller, Spantek President


October 1, 2009

Industry Appreciation Month Proclamation Signing

Lincoln County and the City of Lincolnton officially declared October 2009 Lincoln Economic Development Association (LEDA) Industry Appreciation Month. To celebrate the community’s appreciation for Lincoln County industries, LEDA had an exciting event-filled month scheduled. The month was officially kicked off by the signing of the County and City Proclamations.

October 6, 2009

Industry Appreciation Luncheon

The month kicked off with an appreciation luncheon at Lincoln

Country Club on October 6th. Industries, LEDA board, private mem-

bers and supporters attended. Everyone got the opportunity to chip and putt before lunch for awards.

September 18, 2009

NHRA Zmax Dragway Commercial Broker Event

Lincoln Economic Development Association (LEDA) hosted a group of Charlotte Region Brokers at the Zmax Dragway during the NHRA Carolinas Nationals Drag Race. The event was well attended by a variety of groups such as CB Richard Ellis, Whiteside Industrial, Colliers Pinkard, SouthMark Properties and BCB Investments. Lincoln County Top Fuel Drag Racer, Doug Herbert posted the 3rd fastest qualifying time in the Top Fuel Series.

June 8, 1010

Cataler, North America Groundbreaking

Cataler North America celebrated the beginning of their second building expansion with a Groundbreaking ceremony. This is Cataler’s second building expansion since 2002 when they began production in Lincoln County.

LEDA EVENTS

October 29, 2009

International Appreciation Reception

On October 29th as a culmination of the month LEDA hosted an International Appreciation Reception at Vesuvius Vineyards in Denver. Our International guests were treated to beverages, desserts and appetizers from the ten (10) countries doing business in Lincoln County.

LEDA EVENTS (Cont.)

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October 21, 2009

Industry Tour: Hof Textiles

One of the highlights of the month was a grand tour of Hof Textiles in Indian Creek Industrial Park on October 21st. Hof Textiles is a leading producer of nonwovens for the automotive engine compartment liner in North America. Nonwovens produced are used by all automo-tive brands produced in North America including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, BMW, Mercedes and many more.

“I research all of the foods and the countries to be as authentic as possible.”

–Nancy Pinkerton, owner of Nana’s Angels Custom Creations

October 13, 2009

IMA Forklift Rodeo

The Forklift Rodeo occurred on October 13th at RSI Home Products in Lincoln County Industrial Park. The event is sponsored by the Industrial Managers Association (IMA) of Lincoln County. The rodeo includes skilled forklift drivers from industries throughout Lincoln County competing to win a grand champion trophy.

“Great attendance, great food and a great environ-ment for International business dialogue.”

–Barry Matherly, LEDA Executive Director

LEDA EVENTS: INDUSTRY OF THE YEAR

November 2009

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LEDA Recognizes both GE Security Hof Textiles as

2009 INDUSTRY OF THE YEARWith the purpose of promoting and highlighting the contributions of Lincoln County’s existing industries, LEDA awarded the 2009 Lincoln County Industry of the Year Award to two industries. GE Security and Hof Textiles both had strong qualifications, exemplifying leadership, growth and community involvement and are both active members of LEDA and the Industrial Managers Association and were both deserving of the award. For the first time, there was a tie between the two that could not be broken.

The award is based on four criteria: First the industry must have made a positive impact in Lincoln County within the last year. Second, the industry must be involved with the Lincoln community through direct financial, time and/or other significant contributions.

Next, the industry must be a leader in their field and have produced a positive perfor-mance during their last fiscal year. Finally, the industry must maintain the highest stan-dards of conduct in working with the community, government, other business and their own employees.

GE Security has set an example in the community, not only with their equipment expansion in a very short time but with their community service involvement. Hosting three blood drives, collecting over 6,000 pounds of food for charities and donating

over 1600 volunteer hours to organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, Soup Kitchen, Hospice and Family Care Center.

Hof Textiles has managed to not only survive but excel during these uncertain economic times, especially in the textile and automotive industry. They have had three additional equipment expansions in the last four years, creating high quality jobs for Lincolnton and Lincoln County.

They have avoided permanent lay-off and have been able to maintain a full five day/40 hour work week. With several building upgrades through these expansions, they have provided work for local contractors in order to fuel our local economy.

“Industries of Lincoln County play a very important role in our community. Everyone presumes that the main purpose and mission of LEDA is to recruit new industry to Lincoln County, which it is; equally important if not more is the job of retaining our

existing industry and a stable based workforce for our community.”–Pete Acker, Chair Lincoln Economic Development Association

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LEDA EVENTS (Cont.)

March 22, 2010

LEDA Hosts Sixth Annual Milestone Achievement Awards

Representatives from 29 compa-nies across Lincoln County gath-ered to be recognized for achiev-ing a milestone in business.

The event at the Lincolnton Country Club marked the sixth annual Lincoln Economic Development Association (LEDA) Milestone Achievement Awards.

Companies ranged in milestones from five years to 90 years; the oldest-operating business in Lincoln County, Lincoln Bonded Warehouse, was honored for 90 years of service in the county.

“We are extremely grateful for your support today. We certainly hope five years from now we’ll be assembled with a larger crowd because that's a sign of success for Lincoln County. The awards mean there is not only a sense of economic commitment but a reflection of history of Lincoln County on how the county has grown.”

–Pete Acker, Chairman Lincoln Economic Development Association

November 12, 2009

Lunch ‘n Learn: Proponent of trade with Canada addresses LEDA

The Lincoln Economic Development Association kicked off its first International Lunch ‘n Learn series with Honorary Canadian Consul Dana Hicks III.

The Lunch ‘n Learn touched on every aspect of Canada, from the Canadian Cuisine, the short video playing “O' Canada” with breath-taking views of Canada; from the Mountain Ranges to Niagara Falls painting a wondrous picture of their country. Dana shared his exper-tise on Canada and the trade opportunities between Canada and the U.S., he shared about the culture, the people, and he even brought

souvenirs of Canadian Pins and maps of Trade & Security Partnerships. Dana gave resounding details to the participants leaving them wanting to know more. “Many Canadian-owned companies are calling the Carolinas home now. There were 67 Canadian-owned companies in 16 counties surrounding Charlotte in 2008. North Carolina has more than 80 Canadian companies, creating more than 208,000 jobs. I think that is sort of an eye-opening statistic, it is very impressive.”

–Dana Hicks, III, Honorary Canadian Consul

“Our goal is reaching our investors through educational programs that help the community as a whole have a better understanding of our international friends and potential new companies and trade opportunities that could come to Lincoln County. We need to be ahead of the crowd and have a unique approach to our foreign allies who need to be embraced by the community and made to feel welcome in the U.S.”

–Rhonda Hunter, LEDA Operations Director


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April 13, 2010

Lunch ‘n Learn: Brazilian Carnival Atmosphere at LEDA Lunch ‘n Learn

LEDA held their second International Lunch ‘n Learn series with native Brazilian guest presenter Panico Peres, Executive Vice President with Sabo USA, Inc. a local company that is headquartered in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The Lunch ‘n Learn had the feel of the famous Brazilian Carnival held annually in Brazil, from the authentic Brazilian Cuisine prepared by Panico’s wife and her friend; to the video of the dancers at carnival doing their many costume changes that everyone seemed to enjoy and marvel at their swiftness. Panico’s love of his home country spoke through his charming way with words and his enthusiasm to share his country kept us all laughing and interested to learn more. The U.S. and Brazil have traditionally enjoyed friendly, active relations encompassing a broad political and economic agenda. The U.S. is the largest single country to buy Brazilian exports at 18.9% of the total exports. They are the world’s leading exporter of sugar, coffee, beef and orange juice. Other major exports include aircraft, vehicles, iron ore, steel, textiles and footwear.

May 13, 2010

2010 Stakeholders Event

LEDA held its sixth annual Stakeholders Event aboard a boat on Lake Norman. The purpose of the event is to show appreciation to those who support and contribute to LEDA and economic development and to build stronger relation-ships with site selectors and brokers in order to promote Lincoln County for future industry.

May 19, 2009

Webinar ~ Economic Gardening

LEDA hosted a free webinar focusing on Economic Gardening an inside-out strategy growing jobs through entrepreneurship, rather than recruiting companies to a community - - it can be an effective response to the challenging economy. Economic gardening helps accelerate the growth of local companies by providing sophisticated, tactical and strategic information that is difficult for entrepreneurs to access elsewhere. One of the webinar speakers Christian Gibbons is credited with being the co-inventor of economic gardening an innovative entrepreneurial approach to economic development. Incorporating this strategy in the City of Littleton, Colorado, during the period of 1990 to 2009, it more than doubled the community’s jobs from 15,000 to 30,000 and sales tax revenues more than tripled without recruiting an industry or providing incen-tives or tax rebates. Attendees of this web seminar were able to: • Discover why this economic development strategy works • Learn the key steps and questions to ask when starting an economic gardening program • Hear how a community incorporated economic gardening in its economic developments strategy LEDA hopes to provide more webinars in the future, another tool in educating our community on how we can make our local economy grow.

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LEDA EVENTS (Cont.)

May 25, 2010

International Motorsport

LEDA attended the Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) afternoon boat cruise on Lake Norman. This was a valuable opportunity to enjoy meeting friends from the international motorsport business community. Delegates from the MIA get the chance to enjoy the NASCAR Sprint Cup All-Star Race as well as the Indy 500 during their stay. These two prestigious American races provide the backdrop for their efforts to establish USA contacts. MIA is headquartered in the United Kingdom.

June 10, 2010

LEDA Annual Meeting Flies High

The Lincoln Economic Development Association held its Annual Meeting on Thursday, June 10th at Verdict Ridge Golf and Country Club in Denver, NC.

LEDA Chairman, Mr. Pete Acker opened the Annual Meeting and welcomed private members and special guests. The annual meeting delegation each June elects an individual to represent the private mem-bers on the LEDA Board of Directors. Panico Peres was elected for a new three year term. Panico is a member in good standing and was previously serving an unexpired term.

Special guest speakers were Mr. Jack Christine, Planning & Development Manager for the Charlotte Douglas International Airport who reports to Jerry Orr, Airport Manager who brought many great and valuable information notables about the expansion progress to date and what to expect in the future.

Following Jack was Lincolnton-Lincoln County Regional Airport Manager, Mr. Jeff Lynn who was beaming with pride as he shared his and the Airport Authority’s vision for what would put Lincolnton and Lincoln County on the map with its new terminal. The new terminal building features, 24 hour access for pilots, bathroom with shower, a “snooze” room, kitchen, flight planning room, WIFI, DSL High Internet access and a spacious waiting area, a snack area and a conference room that will accommodate approximately 24 guests. Jeff was especially proud of the new AWOS on Field Weather Reporting that has been installed and shared this is where the temperature and weather conditions are reported to local news weathercasters.


SITE Selection Magazine Names LEDA #4 Micropolitan in U.S.

SITE Selection Magazine named Lincolnton/Lincoln County #4 in the nation of micropoli-tan areas for 2009. This annual ranking tracks non-metropolitan areas within the United States. Communities are ranked based on the number of major industrial projects located and expanded by local economic development professionals. Lincoln Economic Development Association worked on these projects which are counted by the North Carolina Department of Commerce and submit-

ted to the magazine.

LEDA JUST IN

July 27, 2010

Lucky Country to Expand Facility in Lincoln County

Lucky Country will invest $3 million over the next two years to expand their Lincoln County facility located in Lincoln County Industrial Park. Lucky Country started producing its soft, gourmet licorice in 2005. The company’s sales have been increasing at double-digit rates over the past four years.

“In order to supply the growing demand for our products, we are planning the addition of our second production line. This will be state-of-the-art equipment.”

–Michael Bratt, Controller Lucky Country

“We have a very loyal customer base, which includes retainers such as Costco, Walgreens, Walmart, Whole Foods, Harris Teeter and Cracker Barrel, to name a few.”

–Lenka Dransfield, Founder and President Lucky Country

“We believe this is continued evidence of the value Lincoln County places on fostering the success of our existing businesses. We thank Lucky Country for their initial decision to locate their first US facility in Lincoln County and wish them continued success and prosperity as they undertake this significant addition to the economy of Lincoln County.”

–Tom Anderson, Chair LEDA Board

LEDA AWARDS:

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September 23, 2009

Overhauled Web site to promote Lake Norman area business development

LEDA launched its newly redesigned Lake Norman Economic Development web site. The site, www.lakenormaneda.org highlights eastern Lincoln County and the western shores of Lake Norman. Hosted through Joomla web site development software, viewers can learn about selection services, major industries and companies, quality of life, business parks and the community. Visitors can also browse the Lake Norman region through an interactive map, which incorporates attractions and other important locations. Burke Communications, with the help of LEDA and the East Lincoln Advisory Committee, a subgroup of LEDA, designed the site. With a majority of business recruit-ment starting online, it’s essential that we promote this community with an effective web site.

“One of the key priorities was to help strengthen economic development activities in East Lincoln.”

–Tom Anderson, Lake Norman EDA Chair.

February 5, 2010

Expansion on Film Project ~ LEDA Attracting Moviemakers to Lincoln County

LEDA launched a film section on its web site to expand on this poten-tial new business opportunity. The site is filled with photographs of potential movie sites in the county courtesy of the summer film project. Local photographer David Hopkins; a teacher at Maiden High School has helped us at no cost by allowing us to post many of his pictures on LEDA’s film section; that was a big benefit for us as a non-profit. Hopkins will also be taking more pictures to add to the film section.

“Moviemakers will come through Lincoln County looking for unique sites that, perhaps, the other cities can’t offer. We’ve got million-dollar homes to working farms; we aren’t Charlotte. We don’t have skyscrapers or the busy life, but if you think of films needing different settings, we think we’ve got a lot that could benefit moviemakers. The biggest start is letting people know what’s out there.” –David Hopkins, Local Photographer

February 28 - March 7, 2010

Brazil Mission Trip

An economic development trip to Brazil proved to be a positive experience for state, regional and local representatives. Designed to bring an economic boost to the region by strengthening ties with South American companies looking to expand or move to North Carolina.

Those attending the trip were: Lincoln Economic Development Association Executive Director Barry Matherly; Charlotte Regional Partnership President and Chief Executive Officer Ronnie Bryant; N.C. Secretary of Commerce Keith Crisco; N.C. Department of Commerce International Trade Director Jean Davis; Sabo Executive Vice President Panico Peres; Cabarrus County Economic Development Vice President Ryan McDaniel; and N.C. Department of Commerce Existing Industry Specialist Uconda Dunn. The group visited businesses and other officials in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the two largest cities in Brazil.

LEDA PROJECTS

Mission stateMent

To foster an economic environment that promotes:

• An increased tax base

• An Enhancement of the standard of living by creating better jobs for the citizens of Lincolnton and Lincoln County

Our Goals will include:

• Retention and Expansion of Existing Businesses

• Attraction of Base Industries

• Improvement of the Overall Business Climate within Lincolnton and Lincoln County

LEDA Board of directors

Harold Howard, Jr.Retired, Banking

Ken KindleyPresident, Chamber of Commerce

David LeeGeneral ManagerRobert Bosch Tool Corporation

Dr. David MartinSuperintendentLincoln County Schools

Judi MortonManagerEmployment Security Commission

Rosalind WelderDean, Gaston College Lincoln Campus

Betty SetzerRetired, Banking

George WoodCounty Manager, Lincoln County

Rhonda HunterOperations Director

Crystal GettysExisting Business Manager

Kim PhillipsBusiness Development Manager

Mitch MillerResearch Coordinator

Pete AckerCEO, Carolinas Medical Center - LincolnPosition: Chairman

Fred HouserCouncilman, City of LincolntonPosition: Vice Chairman

Tom AndersonChairman of Board ofCommissioners, Lincoln CountyPosition: Treasurer

Barry MatherlyExecutive Director, Lincoln Economic Development AssociationPosition: Secretary

LEDA officers

LEDA staff

David BlackMayor, City of Lincolnton

Jerry CochraneRetired, Cochrane Furniture

Jeff EmoryCity Manager, City of Lincolnton

2007 • 2008 ANNUAL REPORT Lincoln Economic Development Association 2007 • 2008 ANNUAL REPORTLincoln Economic Development Association

LEDA and SLD Unlimited Marketing Win ProAd AwardAt the 27th annual meeting of the Carolinas Chapter of the Business Marketing Association, SLD Unlimited Marketing/PR, of Denver N.C., received a ProAd Silver Award for their work with the Lincoln Economic Development Association. The award recognizes the best in business-to-business strategy and creativity in North and South Carolina. The winning piece titled, "Are You Feeling Lucky?" was used by LEDA at the annual Stakeholders meeting.

LEDA Awarded Top Honors in RegionAt its annual award luncheon on June 5, 2008, the Charlotte Regional Partnership presented the Lincoln Economic Development Association and Hugh McColl, Jr. with the 2008 Jerry awards. The awards recognize significant contributions to the part-nership’s 16 county region by indi-viduals and organizations from the private and public sectors. The awards are named in honor of its first recipients in 2007 - Jerry Richardson, owner and founder of the Carolina Panthers and Jerry Orr, aviation director of Charlotte-Douglas Airport. LEDA was honored for its work at the Lincoln County Industrial Park and the success in bringing in top national and international companies such as RSI Home Products, Crate & Barrel, Cataler North America and Sabo USA.

LEDA Presented Lincolnton Downtown Renaissance AwardThe Lincoln Economic Development Association was awarded the Main Street Lincolnton Downtown Renaissance Award by the Downtown Development Association. The award recognized LEDA’s decision to locate their new headquarters on Main Street in the downtown area and the posi-tive impact it will have. The facility will improve LEDA’s operations and provide meeting space for community organizations and businesses. It will also feature local art displays by Lincoln County artists.

Site Selection Names LEDA Top Micropolitan in U.S.Site Selection Magazine named the Lincolnton/Lincoln County one of the top 25 micropolitan areas for 2007. This annual ranking tracks non-metropolitan areas within the United States. Communities are ranked based on the number of major industrial projects located and expanded by local economic develop-

ment professionals. Lincoln Economic Development Association worked on these projects which are counted by the North Carolina Department of Commerce and submitted to the magazine.

table of Contents:

Overview of Organization --------------- Inside Cover

Chairman’s Letter ------------------------- Inside Cover

Board and Staff --------------------------- Inside Cover

Director’s Letter ------------------------------------------

1

LEDA Investors --------------------------------------- 2–3

Announcements ------------------------------------- 4–6

Events --------------------------------------------------

7 – 9

Ribbon Cuttings ----------------------------------- 10–11

Lincoln Economic Development Association is a private, 501c(3) non-profit corporation charged with facilitating industrial, office and commercial development in Lincolnton and Lincoln County.

Through our public-private partnership the City of Lincolnton, Lincoln County, private citizens and the business community have come together to pursue well-balanced, quality growth for the community.

Documents

CHAIRMAN’S LETTER - LEDA · Jeff Emory City Manager City of Lincolnton Bo King King’s Office Supply LEDA BO ard O f direct O rs LEDAex Offici O s LEDAstaff LEDA Private Investors