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BURKE COUNTY
EXPLORE THE POSSIBILITIES
NORTH
CAROLINA
A PUBLICATION OF THE BURKE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
ONE OF MORGANTON’S TOP
EMPLOYERS!
Case Farms is a fully integrated poultry farming and processing group. We are comprised
of over 3,200 employees and 475 grower farms, that work together to produce consistent
quality poultry products every time for every customer.
Case Farms is always looking for motivated individuals with the desire to be on a winning
team and continue our pursuit to be the best managed and most profitable company in
the U.S. chicken industry.
Our team members are provided with an outstanding package of benefits, competitive
compensation and an opportunity to achieve career success.
If you want to be part of a growing and successful
company, Case Farms wants to hear from you!
121 Rand Street | Morganton, NC 28655 • 828-438-6900
www.casefarms.com/careers
AT THE LAKE... AND IN TOWN!
We know Lake James like the back of our If you’re looking for something a little
hands. Where the best views are. Which closer to the action let us be your guide
of the dozens of coves the fish are biting in choosing a home in town. Downtown
in today. Where the grass is greenest or Morganton is our second home and we
the trees are shadiest. Not to mention the know the best locations for getting the
latest Lake James property values. Let us most out of this charming small town
be your guide to Lake James real estate with big dreams. Morganton is growing
in Morganton and Marion, North Carolina. fast and now is the time to buy.
LakeJamesRealEstate.com
3053 NC 126 • Morganton, NC 28655
Office 828.584.9999 • FAX 828.584.9938
the possibilities are
endless
6 Welcome
8 Fast Facts
10 Education
14 Advanced Manufacturing
18 Health Care
22 Downtown & Retail
26 Flavors
30 Arts & Entertainment
36 Recreation
46 Alphabetical Membership Directory
52 Categorical Membership Directory
4 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N A
Heritage
Funeral Service
& crematory
• Onsite Crematory • Top Quality Monuments with
superb Craftsmanship • Pre-Planning Options
Connie & Andy Thompson Lousie & Ed Plemmons
With Over 60 years of experience serving Burke and
surrounding Counties, The owners, and staff at Heritage
Funeral Service & Crematory are committed to helping families
plan a personal and meaningful ceremony that celebrates life,
and launches the much needed healing process
FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED
828.874.0411 | 1507 East Main Street | Valdese | www.heritagefuneralservices.com
Lamar Smitherman.........Publisher
Janina Linens................. Advertising Director
Lisa Wall......................... Editor
Tyler Barnhardt............... Regional Digital Sales Specialist
Ashley Gibson................. Retail Sales
Jeryl R. Davis, President & CEO
Whitney Wade................. Retail Sales
Kathy C. Bailey, Chairman, Board of Directors Wanda Yount...................Retail Sales
Tiffany Poteat, Manager of Marketing & Sales
Amanda Cline................. Advertising Assistant
Hollie Phillips, Office Manager
Linda Early...................... Advertising Assistant
COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF:
chris allison, rocket sled design Alison Azbell................... Contributing Writer
Lisa Wall......................... Contributing Writer
table of contents PHOTO COURTESY OF:
steven cooke Sharon McBrayer............ Contributing Writer
Magazine Copyright 2018:
Ryan Wilusz.................... Contributing Writer
Burke County Chamber of Commerce Justin Epley.................... Contributing Writer
110 E. Meeting St., Morganton, NC 28655
Paulette Mojica...............Contributing Photographer
Steven Cooke..................Contributing Photographer
This publication was produced exclusively for the Burke County Chamber of Commerce by The
News Herald, a BH Media publishing company. Copyright 2018. Reproduction, in whole or part, of this Ryan Wilusz.................... Contributing Photographer
publication without expressed or written consent of the publisher is prohibited.
Violation of this copyright notice will be prosecuted. All claims, material and photos furnished or
used are, to the publisher’s knowledge, true and correct. Hence, liability cannot be assumed
Jonelle Bobak................. Contributing Photographer
by the publisher for errors or omissions.
Lisa Wall......................... Contributing Photographer
Ashley Martin................. Creative Designer
imagine
calling Burke County home
Picture this. There’s a In Burke County, it’s a of potters spinning clay and where all of those necessities
place nestled in the foothills of different kind of pace from artists putting their hearts in life converge with the
western North Carolina where the hustle and bustle of more and minds on canvas. pleasures of the soul to
the Blue Ridge Mountains urban areas. It’s the rustle But it’s more than just provide more than just a
stand tall as a picturesque of the trees, the ripple of the another county bounded by place to live, but a place to
backdrop to the pristine streams and the lure of nature borders. It’s a community call home. From its top-
waters of Lake James and the calling for your embrace that enveloped together through rated school system, charter
Catawba River. It’s a place sparks your soul. its shared goals in life — schools and higher learning
where adventure awaits the It’s a place where arts and education, health, recreation, opportunities, to high-quality
most timid or bold, calling culture are not only rooted culture, growth and health care facilities and an
them to climb its peaks, dip deep, they’re celebrated in opportunity. industry base that is growing
their toes in the waters and every enclave, from the sound Well positioned for the by leaps and bounds, Burke
take in the beauty of the world of music flowing throughout future, Burke County has County offers opportunities
that surrounds them. downtown streets, to the sight striven to become a place for people of all ages to find
6 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N A
Commonly referred to as “The Jewel
of Burke County,” Lake James’
pristine waters and picturesque
mountain views attract thousands of
visitors annually. Lake James State
Park offers a variety of activities
from swimming, kayaking, canoeing,
paddle boarding, hiking, camping,
fishing and more.
Photo credit: Paulette Mojica
With the addition of new industries
in advanced manufacturing and
distribution, higher education
opportunities and outdoor trails that
will connect western North Carolina
in a new way, the county is on the
cusp of the next golden era.
Recent announcements of
existing businesses expanding, new
manufacturers being attracted,
coupled with a resurgence of
furniture, and the strength of textiles,
show a unprecedented burst of
opportunities in the workforce. As all
those developments come together,
success for the future. Long known as a tourist destination
there is an energy about Burke County
Its flourishing downtown districts for its majestic state parks, Burke County
that positions it for continued growth
in both Morganton and Valdese offer now has positioned itself as more than
and the brightest of futures.
a plethora of entertainment venues, just a weekend destination.
Residents of Burke County can feel the
whether you want to catch the latest
buzz of what is on the horizon as they
release on the Big Screen, enjoy a night The advent of award-winning wineries
watch it unfold before their eyes. Now
of fine dining and a Broadway show, in the county and the craft brew industry
envision your future as a place to lay roots
dance the night away at one of the many coming to the fore, and the increase in
and not just live, but thrive.
entertainment venues, or sip a cold craft tourism, have brought a boost that is
Picture yourself calling Burke County
brew or wine from an outdoor patio while enhanced by new businesses that are
home.
taking in the bustle of downtown or bringing downtown Morganton and
beauty of the mountains. Valdese to life like never before.
By Lisa Wall
McGalliard Falls Park | Waldensian Heritage Wines | Waldensian Heritage Museum | Outdoor Drama From This Day Forward
Spend the Day in Historic Valdese! visitvaldese.com | 888-VALDESE
W W W. BU R K E C O U N T YC H A M B E R . O RG • 7
FAST FACTS
McGalliard Falls Park is a
scenic treasure located in
Valdese. The park is home
to the 40-foot high, natural
attraction McGalliard Falls,
and also includes picnic
facilities and a host of
recreational opportunities.
Photo credit:
Paulette Mojica
LOCATION September.......79°F....... 58°F....... 4.02”........... 0” Post Office...................................828-874-2812
Nestled in the Catawba River Valley at the October...........70°F....... 45°F....... 3.54”........... 0” Valdese Public Library.................828-874-2421
foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Burke November.......61°F....... 36°F....... 3.70”........... 0”
County is situated in the rolling landscape of December........50°F....... 29°F....... 4.09”........... 0” hildebran
western North Carolina. Interstate 40 and U.S. Population................................................. 1,463
Climate data courtesy of The National Climatic Data Center
Highway 70 both bisect the county, running Property Tax.............................................. $0.15
parallel to seven municipalities (Connelly government
Springs, Drexel, Glen Alpine, Hildebran, Phone Numbers
Building Inspections...................828-438-5420
Icard, Rutherford College and Valdese) and City Hall.......................................828-397-5801
Clerk of Court..............................828-433-3200
the county seat of Morganton. Additionally, Post Office...................................828-397-6573
Economic Development..............828-764-9370
portions of Hickory, Long View and Rhodhiss, C.B. Hildebran Public Library.....828-397-3600
Health Department.....................828-764-9150
N.C., rest within Burke County’s borders.
Planning & Zoning......................828-764-9030 rutherford college
Distance in miles to Morganton from Register of Deeds........................828-438-5450 Population................................................. 1,277
Asheville, North Carolina.............................. 56 Tax Office.....................................828-764-9430 Property Tax.............................................. $0.10
Atlanta, Georgia........................................... 239
burke county Phone Numbers
Charlotte, North Carolina.............................. 77
Population...............................................89,293 City Hall.......................................828-874-0333
Chicago, Illinois............................................ 710
Property Tax............................................$0.695 Post Office...................................828-874-0048
Greensboro, North Carolina........................ 120
(Rates based per $100 valuation) Population sources: www.wpcog.org
Greenville, South Carolina............................. 95
Hickory, North Carolina................................ 26 morganton drexel
Knoxville, Tennessee.................................... 169 Population...............................................17,029 Population................................................. 1,869
Raleigh, North Carolina............................... 194 Property Tax.............................................. $0.53 Property Tax.............................................. $0.38
Richmond, Virginia...................................... 320 Special Downtown Tax.............................. $0.14 (Rates based per $100 valuation)
Wilmington, North Carolina....................... 279 (Rates based per $100 valuation)
Washington, D.C.......................................... 426 glen alpine
Winston-Salem, North Carolina.................... 92 Phone Numbers Population................................................. 1,513
New York, New York.................................... 655 City Hall.......................................828-438-8863 Property Tax.............................................. $0.38
Police Department......................828-437-1211 (Rates based per $100 valuation)
climate/weather Post Office...................................828-437-3484
Month.............High.......Low...... Precip.....Snow utilities
Morganton Public Library..........828-437-5638 Cable
January.......... 49° F...... 26°F....... 4.02”........... 1”
February.........53°F....... 30°F....... 3.98”........... 1” valdese CoMPAS Cable TV & Internet
March..............61°F....... 36°F....... 4.45”........... 2” Population................................................. 4,542 (City of Morganton)....................828-438-5276
April................70°F....... 44°F....... 3.66”........... 0” Property Tax............................................$0.545 Spectrum.....................................866-874-2389
May.................78°F....... 53°F....... 3.70”........... 0” (Rates based per $100 valuation) Electricity
June................85°F....... 62°F....... 4.84”........... 0” Duke Energy Company...............800-653-5307
July.................88°F....... 66°F....... 4.06”........... 0” Phone Numbers
City Hall.......................................828-879-2120 Rutherford EMC..........................828-584-1410
August.............86°F....... 65°F....... 4.25”........... 0” City of Morganton Electrical Co... 828-438-5282
Police Department......................828-879-2104
8 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N A
health care Other schools/educational programs
Medical Facilities Blue Ridge Community Action.............................................828-758-4290
Carolinas HealthCare System Blue Ridge/Morganton Child Care Connections of BC, Inc.......................................828-439-2328
2201 South Sterling St., Morganton....................................828-580-5000 Morganton Day School.........................................................828-437-6782
Carolinas HealthCare System Blue Ridge/Valdese The New Dimensions Charter School..................................828-437-5753
720 Malcom Blvd., Valdese...................................................828-580-2251 North Carolina School for the Deaf.....................................828-432-5200
Extended Care media/communications
Blue Ridge Community Action Newspapers
800 N. Green St., Morganton...............................................828-758-4290
The Morganton News Herald................................................828-437-2161
HandiCare, Inc. www.morganton.com
304 S. Main St., Drexel.........................................................828-437-8429 Hickory Daily Record............................................................828-322-4510
Assisted Living/Nursing Homes/Retirement Communities www.hickoryrecord.com
Cambridge House housing & real estate
114 10th St. NE, Hickory.....................................................828-325-4980
Contact the Burke County Chamber of Commerce at 828-437-3021 or
College Pines Health & Rehabilitation Center
95 Locust St., Connelly Springs...........................................828-580-6800 visit its website at www.burkecounty.org for a complete and up-to-date
Grace Heights Health & Rehabilitation Center listing of member real estate businesses. The chamber also maintains a
109 Foothills Dr., Morganton...............................................828-580-7000 guide to area apartments, available upon request.
Grace Ridge Retirement Community
transportation
500 Lenoir Rd., Morganton..................................................828-580-7300
Greenway Public Transportation............... 828-438-0867, 828-464-9444
education Greyhound (Gastonia, NC)...................................................828-434-2323
NC Center for Engineering Technologies
1990 Maine Ave. SE, Hickory...............................................828-328-6183 Airports
Burke County Board of Education/Burke County Public Schools Charlotte Douglas International..........................................704-359-4013
700 E. Parker Rd., Morganton..............................................828-439-4329 Hickory Regional...................................................................828-323-7408
Gardner-Webb University Foothills Regional.................................................................828-757-0099
110 S. Main St., Boiling Springs...........................................704-406-4000
Lees-McRae College Employment Resources
191 Main St., Banner Elk......................................................800-280-4562 AccuForce Staffing Services..................................................828-432-2950
Western Carolina University Catawba Valley Staffing........................................................828-432-9797
1 University Way, Cullowhee................................................828-227-7211 Friday Staffing Services........................................................828-437-4200
Western Piedmont Community College NC Employment Security Commission...............................828-438-6161
1001 Burkemont Ave., Morganton......................................828-448-3500 www.ncesc.com
Of
Of Alexander
lexander Burke
Alexander, Burke,
Burke,Caldwell
Caldwell,
Caldwell,and
andCatawba
CatawbaCounties
Counti
Counties
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W W W. BU R K E C O U N T YC H A M B E R . O RG • 9
EDUCATION
BY THE
lifelong
learning
NUMBERS
• Graduation rate - 86.3 %
(Burke Middle College 100 %,
Freedom High School 92.7 %) Burke County Public Schools are
dedicated to helping children succeed
• Ranked 29th Best School in the future and boasts am 86.3 %
District in the state by graduation rate, along with a 100%
Niche.com graduation rate at Burke Middle
• 24 schools met or College and 92.7 % rate at Freedom
exceeded academic growth High School.
photo credit: jonelle bobak
expectations
• 12 schools in the district
have A or B state performance
rating (Burke Middle College
has the highest performance
grade in the state)
• BCPS ranks 7th in the
state in the percentage of
students who take Career and
Technical Education classes
and earn credentials in those
classes
• 20.4 is our ACT composite
score; 1,074 is our SAT
composite score
• On end-of-grade tests,
BCPS ranked 20th in the One of the most important use.
state in NC Math 1 scores, elements for any family looking to relocate The new school is located across from
8th highest in fifth-grade is the education provided in the area. With the Catawba Meadows Park and is adjacent to the
science and in the top 15 % in Burke County Public Schools system (BCPS), Mountain View Recreation Center, as well as
seventh-grade and eighth- students have access to hands-on training and new amenities that are expected to open soon,
grade reading
education that help prepare them for life after including a new a splash pad and a Greenway
• Burke Middle College the classroom. connector that will run by the school.
teacher Lisa Wall is the
In 2017, BCPS broke ground on the new
Region 7 Teacher of the Year
Mountain View Elementary School, which is Partnering for the future
• Burke County Public
Schools received 10 Blue
set to open in the fall of 2018. The school is While a new school is being built, programs
Ribbon Awards from the expected to have around 600 students with that further the enhancement of students are
North Carolina School Public an 800-student capacity. The new school will being implemented as well. Western Piedmont
Relations Association allow the school system to relieve overcrowding Community College recently added the
• Burke County Public Schools within other elementary schools in the county, Mechatronics and Cosmetology programs to
is the recipient of a $555,000 as its goal is to keep schools at 80 percent their field choices.
grant from Kate B. Reynolds capacity to allow for future growth. According to Michael Daniels, dean
Charitable Trust to improve Updated features such as alternative seating of Health, Engineering and Applied
outdoor spaces and standing desks will be implemented in Technology at WPCC, mechatronics is a
• A new, 800-student capacity the classrooms and the school will have a full field of study in industry applications that
elementary school will open gymnasium, auditorium/theater and ball fields includes a combination of mechanical,
in August that will be for the school and community to electrical, computer engineering and related
1 0 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N ANC School of Science and Math
competencies. Competencies
Campus Building Overview
in mechatronics are critical
in all competitive advanced
manufacturing industries
including metal component
manufacturing, industrial
equipment, electrical products,
chemical processing, furniture
and textiles.
With more industries moving
to the area, Daniels says the addition of mechatronics
was a necessity.
“In 2013, the college saw a growing demand from
local industry as companies moved more to automation
and as they began to recover from the recent economic
downturn,” said Daniels. “In direct response, the college
developed and delivered a workforce development 96-
hour training course in Industrial Maintenance basics to
help our local industry.”
Industries will benefit from the program with WPCC
graduates that have been trained in the variety of
industry applications. Burke County boasts a top-notch public
“Burke County has and will continue to leverage these mechatronics school system, private school options, as well
as higher education opportunities through
technologies to compete in the global market,” Daniels says. “These graduates Burke Middle College and Western Piedmont
who understand and can apply these technologies are, therefore, critical to the Community College. In addition a western
success of organizations ranging from textiles, furniture, chemical, electrical campus of the N.C. School of Science and
and mechanical manufacturing.” Math is set to open in 2021.
photo credit: jonelle bobak (top left)
The Mechatronics Engineering Technology Associate in Applied Science and submitted photos
degree was first offered in 2016. Approximately 20 active full-time, first- and
second-year students are currently enrolled in the program.
***
BCPS is consistently making efforts in the community to engage students in
preparation for life after the classroom. With the new internship program that
began in the summer of 2017, students are paid to work for the school system.
W W W. BU R K E C O U N T YC H A M B E R . O RG • 1 1“We see this program only
growing over the next 10
years and expanding as more
and more businesses and
industries hire our interns,”
said BCPS Superintendent
Larry Putnam. “We are
investing in our kids above
and beyond what we already
do in the classroom.”
Students in the program are
paid $1 over minimum wage
to work in the bus garage,
as custodians and in school
public relations as well as with
maintenance. The internship
program is designed to help
students see what career
options are available in Burke Engaging students in STEM
curriculum is helping them to gain an
County, if that is something interest in science and engineering
they want to do, and what it fields for future careers.
will take for them to get there. photo credit: jonelle bobak
Burke County Public
Schools and Western
Piedmont Community College
also have partnered to form
Burke Middle College, where
students can attend WPCC
and receive a high school
diploma, an associate’s degree
and Career and College
Promise (CCP). CCP allows set for 2021. to hold 300 students, with close to home, but we also are
high school students to Mark Johnson, N.C.’s student admission in the first looking for ways to partner
remain at their traditional superintendent of public year being 150 and another with the NCCSM on STEM
school and take free college instruction, applauded the 150 students admitted in the activities. Our students
courses either online, at decision in May 2017 to second year. The school also already take advantage of
WPCC’s campus or at their bring the western campus of will bring at least 100 new virtual NCSSM classes at
school with WPCC instructors NCSSM to Morganton. positions to Morganton. the STEAM Academy, and
traveling to the students for “The expansion of NCSSM Potential course focus this new opportunity with
classes in English, history, is exciting for students and areas include environmental an actual campus being
mechatronics and welding. families all across North science, energy, climate right here in our county will
Carolina,” Johnson said at the science, computational/ only increase the learning
North Carolina time of the announcement. data science, health science opportunities available for our
School of Science and “The western campus will and sustainability, according students.”
Math provide more opportunities to information from the
Rapid change requires for students on one of the school. But the educational Work in Burke
constant evolution and most beautiful settings in the program also will include the Burke County Public
partnerships within the school entire state. I look forward humanities such as language, Schools also is proud to
system ensure the success to all the collaboration ahead literature, history and art. support and sponsor Work
of the students. Another for North Carolina students “We can’t wait for the North in Burke. This campaign, led
important partnership is that and educators at the Western Carolina School of Science by Burke Development Inc.
between BCPS and the North Campus.” and Math to open its campus — the county’s economic
Carolina School of Science The school, which will be here in Morganton in 2021,” development organization
and Math, which will begin located on the state’s 800-acre Putnam said. “We are excited — educates students and
pre-construction in the fall of site along with WPCC and about some of our students their parents about the job
2018, with an opening for its the N.C. School for the Deaf, having the opportunity to opportunities available in
western campus in Morganton initially will be constructed attend the school and be so Burke County and the training
1 2 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N Aneeded to pursue a career in those fields.
Looking to the future, BCPS is working on
collaborative efforts between the schools and
community for the betterment of students and the
economic region. Elements of that plan include
six strategic goals: successful students, committed
teachers, technology for all, a safe learning
environment, engaged community and world-class
services.
In 2019, BCPS will celebrate its 50th year of existence
after Morganton, Glen Alpine and Burke County school
systems consolidated in 1969.
Educational Options
TOP: Western Piedmont Community
To meet the individual needs of College recently completed its
students, schools use different varieties Mechanics building, which will help
of teaching methods that can be prepare students in a variety of
found at educational facilities such as advanced manufacturing fields.
photo credit: jonelle bobak
Morganton Day School, a K-8 private
school that follows a philosophy of LEFT: In 2017, WPCC added
inquiry-based education. K-4 focuses cosmetology to its list of degree
on the development of the whole child, programs. The new facility is housed
in a remodeled retail shop to give it
preparing students to become active, the look of a high-end spa. Students
caring, lifelong learners. Enrichment are able to get hands-on experience
programs in STEAM, mathematics, by serving customers four days a
art, music, physical education, along week.
photo credit: paulette Mojica
with community involvement, are
emphasized for expanding children’s minds through science,
culture and civics.
In addition to BCPS and WPCC, Burke County’s education
options include independent private schools, faith-based
schools, a charter school, home schooling, and Morganton also is
HANDI-CARE, INC.
home to the North Carolina School for the Deaf.
To continue the path to higher education, graduates can enroll
at WPCC to earn an associate degree or certificate in a variety
of chosen fields. Those wishing to pursue four-year of even
more advanced degrees are able to transfer to North Carolina
Universities or take advantage of degree programs offered by
Appalachian State University, Lees McRae College, Gardner-
Webb University, Western Carolina University and Montreat
College at their Morganton campuses.
By alison azbell and lisa wall
Remember When Your Mom Was
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Nancy Roberts,
Owner/Broker
Office: 828-433-0355
Cell: 828-413-9035
Email: nancysellsnc@gmail.com
MOM
Handi-Care, INC.
Serving Burke, Caldwell 828-437-8429 • 1-800-435-9251
& Catawba Counties www.handi-careinc.com
W W W. BU R K E C O U N T YC H A M B E R . O RG • 1 3ADVANCED MANUFACTURING
opportunity
abounds
Years after many North Carolina Alan Wood, president and CEO of commercial, residential and industrial
towns saw their industry lifeblood of Burke Development Inc., said there is an sites with electrical wiring, lighting
textiles and furniture manufacturing impressive lineup of companies calling energy management, security and
disappear, Burke County has put a new Morganton and Burke County home automation. Because of the company’s
spin on manufacturing, which still that create a variety of products while focus, most homes in North America use
represents the largest employment sector providing services. Leviton products and the company is the
in the county. With the collaborative “Each of these companies shows the first choice for electrical contractors. The
efforts of city and county officials, as well willingness and ability to adapt, to remain company holds more than 600 patents
as Burke Development Inc., the area has strong and relevant in today’s very and its products are available in more
been reinvigorated with more diverse competitive, worldwide economy,” Wood than 80 countries.
and technology-based manufacturing said.
companies that are leading the county Saft America
into a golden era for business. Building on Success Saft is a world leader in the design
2017 was a banner year for job creation Leviton and manufacturing of high-tech battery
as nearly 700 new jobs were announced One of the best-known manufacturers systems for industrial applications
through expansions of current industries in Morganton is Leviton. Founded in for use in space, aeronautics, telecom,
and the addition of many more. But as 1906 by Isidor Leviton, the business transportation and defense. Saft has
2017 came to end and 2018 began, the began in New York City as a company that become a world leader by doing what it
announcement of even more businesses manufactured mantle tips used for gas does best and by bringing all of its skills
committing to come to the county lighting. With the invention of Thomas to bear on a common goal. Saft consists
showed that the season of growth will Edison’s light bulb, Leviton shifted to of over 4,000 dedicated professionals
continue long into the future. The new manufacturing pull-chain lamp holders. worldwide, each with different technical
industries and jobs — nearly 1,000 total The popular concept was adopted by backgrounds, united by a unique Saft
— along with the many long-standing society over the next decade as Leviton’s spirit emphasizing technical excellence,
businesses highlighted below will provide business started booming. Now known teamwork and customer satisfaction.
the community with a multitude of for its energy-efficient products and focus The year 2018 marks 100 years of Saft.
opportunities to make great careers right on improving electrical safety for future During all of that time, the company
here at home. generations, Leviton meets the needs of has been a pioneer, designing and
Funeral Home & Crematory Center
Locally Owned and Operated by
Rick Hood and Jimmy Kirksey
• 5,500 Ft Runway • Flight Training • Sightseeing Tours Post Office Box 2608 • Morganton, NC 28680
• Aircraft Charter • Aircraft Maintenance • Aircraft Storage 1011 South Sterling Street • Morganton, NC 28655
Phone: (828) 437-3211 • www.Sossomanfh.com
(828)757-0099 | fbo@foothillsairport.com
1 4 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N AOpportunity Threads is a worker-
owned company that produces high-
end T-shirts, apparel, pillow, totes
and other sewn products and delivers
within a 1,000-mile radius.
Submitted photo
manufacturing batteries and
battery systems to get energy
to where customers need it, be
that in space, on land, in the
air or at sea.
Seiren
Formerly known as
Viscotec, Seiren manufactures
interior fabrics for some of the
world’s largest automakers,
including Honda, Toyota and USA is a leader in the baking the Morganton plant opened in the marketplace. Chaddock
Nissan. The company focuses industry, known for its with 35 employees making can be described as a mix
on being energy efficient and category leading brands, anti-lock brake systems. In of what is new and next in
a good environmental steward innovative products, freshness 2012, the plant hit a milestone American furniture design
with large solar arrays. Using and quality. As part of Grupo of producing 6 million units and manufacturing. Making
a wide variety of materials Bimbo, the world’s largest of its brake systems. The made-to-order furniture, one
from fabric to synthetic baking company, BBU is company’s new expansion will piece at a time, the Chaddock
and natural leather, Seiren’s proud to share the company allow the facility to produce showroom is considered one
automotive products span a philosophy “highly productive 3.2 million brake system of the most beautiful and
wide range from various types and deeply humane” in the units a year. Continental will inspiring spaces in the High
of seat materials to decorative U.S. In 1994, Grupo Bimbo hire all levels of advanced Point Furniture Market.
parts designed to uniquely purchased a California-based manufacturing positions Chaddock designers and
characterize the interior of tortilla company. Bimbo from machine operators to collections include Mary
each vehicle. Through its entered the U.S. bread market skilled maintenance workers McDonald, Larry Laslo, David
unique integrated production in 1997 with the acquisition to support the expansion. Easton, Guy Chaddock, Dining
system, Seiren is offering of Pacific Pride Bakeries of San Continental is one of the top Pairings, Studio C, PS for
its automotive upholstery Diego. Today, BBU operates five automotive suppliers Chaddock, Quick Ship and
materials to customers on a more than 60 bakeries, worldwide. The company Guy Chaddock Monterey.
global scale. Seiren strives for employs more than 22,000 currently employs more than
development of merchandise associates and distributes 400 people in Morganton.
with functionality to products through 11,000 sales Opportunity
meet customers’ specific routes throughout the U.S. Chaddock Furniture Threads
requirements in a timely The furniture industry has An apparel manufacturing
manner and at reasonable Continental been making a comeback in company, Opportunity
costs. Continental is celebrating Burke County over the past Threads provides high-
its 25th anniversary as it few years. Guy Chaddock took quality products with
Bimbo Bakeries works on an 82,000-square- advantage of the business a quick turnaround on
Bimbo Bakeries has historic foot expansion. The company when he began making production. With the ability
ties to baking in Valdese announced last April its plans furniture in the 1950s and, to accommodate lower
that date back to the early to expand, investing $40 together with other skilled minimums, the company
1900’s Waldensian Bakery. million and creating 150 new artisans, created designs and works with entrepreneurs who
Corporately, Bimbo Bakeries jobs in Burke County. In 1992, finishes unlike anything else are just starting their own
W W W. BU R K E C O U N T YC H A M B E R . O RG • 1 5One of the companies
showing the diversity of companies to those who are well established. was established in 1987 by James “Bud” Toner
advanced manufacturing
in Burke County is Leviton,
From offering personalized services for with five employees to provide machining and
which provides energy- product sampling, initial trial runs and long- tooling services to the manufacturing industry.
efficient lighting and term production needs, Opportunity Threads The company was founded on four basic
electrical products for produces high-end T-shirts, apparel, pillows, principles — integrity, honesty, quality and
residential products and
commercial projects.
bags and totes, and sewn accessories as a customer service — all to provide precision
Submitted photo worker-owned company. Opportunity Threads craftsmanship driven by technology. James
is one of the more unique manufacturers in Tool is ISO 9001 and AS9100 certified and
the area as it is minority owned and woman provides quality machining services for diverse
owned. The company prides itself on being industries worldwide, including aerospace,
a social enterprise that allows members to heavy equipment, automotive, oil and gas,
eventually become owners. nuclear and transportation. The business is
INK, HEART & SOUL
comprised of three areas, including engineer
Ice River Springs and build hydraulic workholding, CNC
Ice River Springs has been focusing on production machining and non-production
sustainable bottling and the environment precision machining. James Tool, which
since 2009, when the company made a large employs more than 120, has continuously
investment in equipment to be the first increased its capacity over the last 25 years to
beverage company in North America to provide a large range of services.
produce recycled content in a closed loop.
Not only does the company work on reducing EJ Victor
Providing inks to the label and recycling plastic, they also work on the A business recognized for quality, service
and package printing
environmental impact by piping water from and value, EJ Victor is a locally owned
industries for more than
180 years. Siegwerk the source, using solar energy arrays and company that makes famous high-end
Environmental Inks geothermal cooling and planting 70,000 trees furniture right here in Burke County. Priding
has not only expanded to capture carbon dioxide. As opposed to using itself on craftsmanship of its devoted
its UV manufacturing new plastic, Ice River Springs has reduced employees, EJ Victor is committed to building
capabilities but also has energy and emissions by 78%. By taking superior furniture and offering customers
invested further in the plastic used in food and beverage containers easy access to responsible professionals that
existing water-based and turning it into food-grade plastic, Ice are knowledgeable and cultured. EJ Victor
manufacturing location River Springs is able to produce water bottles has been building its brand for more than 25
in order to secure its that can then be recycled. What the company years and has become one of the best-in-class
position as a long-term emphasizes, closed-loop bottling, is a unique licensing partners to premier global lifestyle
supplier to the market and
and sustainable way to achieve maximum brands, such as Ralph Lauren, Kelly Wearstler,
its community.
efficiency and aims to be a zero waste to Perennials, and most notably, Kate Spade
landfill company. New York. With a variety of furniture ranging
from mirrors, tables, cabinets, couches, chairs,
1 Quality Products Road James Tool Machine and lamps and everything in between, EJ Victor
Morganton, NC Engineering Inc. works to produce high-end quality statement
828-391-2333 James Tool Machine and Engineering Inc. pieces for homes or businesses.
www.siegwerk.com
1 6 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N AKellex Seating Packing Corp. of America
Kellex opened its doors in Burke County in 2008 at the peak Packaging Corporation of America began operation in its
of the Great Recession and made more than 250,000 pieces of Morganton plant in 1959 and is considered the third largest
furnishings over the following four years. With a reputation manufacturer of corrugated packaging in North America.
based on generosity and quality, Kellex has donated several When the company first opened its doors, most of its clients
hundred sofas and chairs to help renovate the Florida-based were textile, furniture manufacturers and dye houses. PCA
Give Kids the World camp for children with life-threatening reinvented its brand to offer an array of services from plastics to
illnesses. The company was also profiled on the hit TV show food and more. Some of PCA’s biggest customers are Ikea, Green
Extreme Makeover and has partnered with the Susan G. Komen Mountain Coffee and General Electric.
Foundation in support of breast cancer awareness. Kellex makes
an array of couches, chairs, ottomans and tables while building Siegwerk
their own frames. Their slogan is “make it here, make it happen.” Previously known as Environmental Inks, Siegwerk is an
international, market-leading manufacturer of printing inks
O’Mara Incorporated for packaging of any kind as well as newspapers, magazines
O’Mara Incorporated is a domestic yarn source that extrudes and catalogs. Headquartered near Cologne, Germany, the
and textures filament polyester, 100 percent post-consumer company still is family owned. With more than 180 years of
recycled polyester Eco-Fil, polypropylene, Trevira fire retardants experience, Siegwerk commands a profound product knowledge
and nylon. These yarns can be extruded in natural and solution and expertise for many printing methods. The company uses
dye colors in various deniers, filament counts, lusters, and cross- the formula “ink, heart and soul” to describe its everyday work.
sections in small lot sizes. O’Mara Incorporated’s versatility Together with its customers, the company develops printing
provides for performance additives in all base resins. O’Mara is ink solutions with “heart and soul.” For this reason, “ink, heart
a producer of air-covered spandex yarns. Located in Rutherford and soul” is much more than just a slogan, as the company’s aim
College, the company specializes in warp and filling yarns is to develop partnerships for mutual benefit. The company is
for weaving, hosiery yarns and yarns for narrow elastics. The steeped in tradition, yet practice-oriented with state-of-the-art
company serves indoor and outdoor and automotive fabrics, technology.
industrial, narrow elastics-waist bands, residential, intimates,
By Alison azbell, lisa wall and justin epley
military, geo textiles, medical, air cover and twisted yarns,
denim, sheer hosiery, socks, apparel and contract upholstery
markets.
American Roller Bearing
American Roller Bearing Company is a leading manufacturer
Bowers Insurance Agency
of quality anti-friction bearings in the industrial markets
it serves. The company’s anti-friction bearings permit free
motion between moving and fixed parts. They are essential
to mechanized equipment as they hold or guide moving
machine parts and minimize friction and wear. ARB’s quality
commitment starts with top management and is supported
conscientiously by all the people in the company. The company
strives to produce products and services which consistently
meet or exceed customers’ requirements and specifications.
Kelly Bowers-Messenhelmer ■ Auto
Keith Bowers
■ Home
Bowers Agency
Phone: (828) 437-3084 ■ Life
Morganton Hardware bowersk2@nationwide.com ■ Business
Best of Both Worlds
VOTED BEST
HARDWARE STORE IN BURKE COUNTY!
526 West Fleming Dr. Morganton Developed by Bowers Insurance Agency, Inc. Nationwide life Insurance Company. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated
Companies. Home office : Columbus, OH 43215-2220. Nationwide Insurance the Nationwide framemark and On Your Side are service marks
828-433-8778 • morgantonhardware.com of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.
W W W. BU R K E C O U N T YC H A M B E R . O RG • 1 7HEALTH CARE
living well
A key aspect of our overall well-
being is access to quality health care and
opportunities to live well. Burke County
offers all of those with a top-notch hospital
care system based in Morganton and
serving several surrounding counties.
In addition, Burke County has health
care providers to meet virtually anyone’s
needs, from primary care to physicians in
nearly 40 specialties.
With the awarding of a Healthy
Places grant from the Kate B. Reynolds
Foundation, along with the commitment
of health care providers in the area, the
county has put more focus on disease
prevention and living well. The grant
has led to the formation of community
gardens, encouragement of farm-to-table
eating and more fitness opportunities to
help shape the future of health for those of
all ages.
Carolinas HealthCare System
Blue Ridge
Carolinas HealthCare System Blue
Ridge (CHSBR) makes finding a doctor
Carolinas HealthCare System
Blue Ridge offers more than 200
doctors in 30 convenient locations
focusing on all aspects of health
care.
Submitted photo
1 8 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N AAside from the top-notch medical care
offered, Carolinas HealthCare System
Blue Ridge also provides special
events throughout the year that focus
of health screening, nutrition and
exercise to emphasize the importance
of preventing diseases and illnesses.
Submitted photo
easy with more than 200 doctors in 30 county, with almost 1,800 care team technology in advanced, attractive and
convenient locations. From annual check- members, CHSBR offers bigger city convenient facilities. Their key services
ups and women’s health to treatment for medical care but with down home charm, reflect the community’s most widespread
illnesses and referrals to the region’s best according to CEO Kathy Bailey. “We are medical issues and their medical staff
specialists, doctors are ready to take care friends and neighbors taking care of includes physicians in more than 30
of you and your family. friends and neighbors,” she said. specialties.
As the largest private employer in the CHSBR offers state-of-the-art medical The hospital system oversees the
• Weddings
• Birthday Parties
• Business Outings
• Wine & Beer Tours
• Fully Heated and Air Conditioned
• Padded Seats For 22
Call: 828-433-6793 -ridgelinetrolley
W W W. BU R K E C O U N T YC H A M B E R . O RG • 1 9Growing Business, Building Community
Titanium Level Investors
Blue Ridge
Platinum Level Investors
Gold Level Investors
Silver Level Investors
Wells Fargo • Republic Services • SEIREN North America, LLC • Accuforce
Triangle Contractors Inc. • Grace Ridge • PEPSI • City of Morganton • Sono Care
First Citizens Bank • American Roller Bearings • Bimbo Bakeries
Burke Hospice & Palliative Care • Leviton • O’Mara USA • McDonalds
The News Herald • Siegwerk • Walmart • SAFT
Bronze Level Investors
Wendy B’s • SERVPRO of Burke County • Gerresheimer • Rural King
Canteen •Duke Energy • SunTrust • Lowdermilk Church & Co. LLP
City of Hickory • Keystone Management Co., Inc •Burke County • James Tool
BB&T • Iris Fox Insurance • Town of Valdese • SGL Group The Carbon Company
North Carolina School for the Deaf • Cracker Barrel
Morganton Eye Physicians & Surgery Center •Belk • Food Matters Market
MFG NC • PCA • Everett Chevrolet • Buffalo Wild Wings
William T. Link, D.D.S • Friday Staffing •Eric’s Painting and Plaster
Shareholder Executive Level
FSI Office • Marves Industries • North Carolina Vocational Rehab • Hampton Inn
Comfort Inn • Sossoman Funeral Home & Crematory Center • Morganton Savings Bank
Abeles • Fulenwider Enterprises • Nationwide Bowers Agency • Blue Ridge Community Action
Workout Anytime • Prodigy Voice & Data • EJ Victor • Custom Benefit Solutions
Timberwoods Family Restaurant & Catering • Friday Friends Restaurant • Mission Health
Shenandoah Furniture Inc. • Food Lion • Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory
Picture Source Somerset • Smith, Miller, & Buff, CPA • Carolina Rehab Center of Burke
Western Piedmont Real Estate, LLC • Morganton General Store •The Dapper Doughnut
Sagebrush • Pro Staffing • Morganton Honda • Diversified Glass • TD BankMorganton Hospital Campus, www.BlueRidgeHealth.org. services, as well as injury
Valdese Hospital campus, The Burke Primary Care and illness diagnosis and
Blue Ridge Medical Group, helps to further enrich the treatment, plus return-to-
Grace Heights Nursing community’s extensive work program for employers.
and Rehabilitation Center, medical resources. In addition, Mission
College Pines Nursing and Burke Primary Care is a My Care Plus, a service of
Rehabilitation Center, Grace comprehensive family Asheville-based Mission Since 1906,
Ridge Retirement Community practice that treats patients Health, provides access to
A Global Provider of
and Phifer Wellness Center. of all ages. Through Burke highly specialized medical and
Together, CHSBR’s Occupational Health, it also surgical services. Electrical Wiring
campuses in Morganton and provides preventive services, Devices
Valdese have been serving pre-placement and post-offer By Alison Azbell and
people throughout our lisa wall Network and Data
area for nearly 175 years, Center Solutions
providing quality health care 207 N. Sterling St.
to generations of families. Energy Management
Morganton, NC 28655 Controls & Automation
In 1999, the two hospitals
(828) 437-5357
partnered to create a single
www.mimosains.com LED Lighting Systems
community health system
called Blue Ridge HealthCare.
Then, in 2014, the system “Insure and Save
unveiled its new name as
Carolinas HealthCare System the Mimosa Way!” The Future is On®
113 Industrial Blvd,
Blue Ridge to reflect the Morganton, NC 28655
deeper integration of its 828-584-1611
previous affiliation with
Carolinas HealthCare System.
Dalton Walters, CIC
To find a doctor, visit
dwalters@mimosains.com
W W W. BU R K E C O U N T YC H A M B E R . O RG • 2 1DOWNTOWN & RETAIL
feel
the heartbeat
The most notable focal point of
downtown Morganton is the Historic
Courthouse. From the recognizable
cupola that sits atop the historic
building to the sprawling lawn,
it is a center for live music events
throughout the summer and a host
of other community gatherings
throughout the year.
Photo credit: Paulette Mojica
2 2 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N AABOVE: The downtown master plan
also includes bringing in more shops,
restaurants and sidewalk dining.
submitted graphic
LEFT: Retail shops can be found
throughout downtown Morganton,
offering a variety of shopping
opportunities, including boutique
stores, specialty shops, craft and
art galleries, furniture and useful
and decorative items for the home.
Downtown also houses a variety of
restaurants that cater to any pallet.
Photo credit: Paulette Mojica
Vibrant downtown areas are local arts and crafts, shoppers will find
key aspects to any great city as they bring a plethora of unique items that make
people together for shopping, dining shopping an experience. throughout the year, along with a wide
and entertainment and showcase the Add in a multi-screen movie theater, array of shops and restaurants.
heartbeat of an area. a performing arts auditorium with And with all that downtown
Both Morganton and Valdese take pride year-round entertainment, and a host Morganton has grown to be, it’s only
in their downtowns and continue to grow of restaurants and breweries offering just beginning to reach its full potential,
the areas to make them a destination something to
for residents and visitors. Morganton’s satisfy every palate,
downtown has won numerous awards and downtown
through the North Carolina Main Street Morganton is truly
Program and, in 2015, hosted the annual the place to be, not
Main Street Program convention. During just on weekends
the convention, Morganton had the but anytime.
opportunity to show the progress of Similarly, Valdese
its downtown to other city officials and boasts its own
discuss how it embraces retail, culture, downtown theater-
aesthetics and entertainment. seating venue, the
With its selection of boutiques offering Old Rock School,
men’s, women’s and children’s clothing which plays hosts
to its eclectic shops downtown offering to a variety of
blended olive oils, kitchen gadgets, plays and concerts
• Fast, friendly, professional services
First Baptist Church of Morganton • Specialty compounded prescriptions
Every member a minister - making disciples for Christ • One-On-One medication reviews and therapy management
An experienced, caring, ministerial staff and • Adherence packaging and medication synchronization
a loving, dynamic, church family welcome you! • Blood pressure and blood sugar testing
Join us for wonderful worship experiences, • Diabetic supplies and services, including shoes
spiritual formation activities, warm fellowship • Orthopedic braces, walkers, canes and crutches
events, local ministry opportunities, and life- • Immunizations, including travel vaccines
changing mission ventures.
A nursery staffed by trained childcare leaders Monday - Friday • 8:30 am - 6:00 pm
is provided. We have a Five Star Preschool and Saturday • 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
Afterschool program.
Visit us at: 502 West Union Street in Morganton 200 West Fleming Drive • Morganton, NC 28655
(828) 437-2544 | www.fbcmorganton.org (828) 438-9355 • www.tablerockrx.com
W W W. BU R K E C O U N T YC H A M B E R . O RG • 2 3which is evident as it begins to implement its
next master plan. After nearly a year of public
input, planning and drafting, the final version of
Morganton’s downtown master plan was unveiled by
city officials in 2018.
After working with a consulting firm and asking
for input from the community on the top projects
that should be set for the future of downtown,
officials released the “Top 10 in 5” section, which
outlines 10 plans Morganton should complete within
the next five years.
The key points of the plan focus on current
downtown conditions, goals, plans and
implementation strategies. Some of the top
strategies include converting downtown streets
to two-way to create better traffic flow; increasing
ground floor active use of downtown buildings and
adding to the number of retail/restaurant tenants on
the ground floor to 90 percent; adding a downtown
hotel; renovating the courthouse square and adding an ABOVE: Clothiers and boutiques in downtown
outdoor amphitheater for concerts; adding downtown Morganton, such as Benjamin’s and Libba’s, give
shoppers a wide variety of options whether looking for
housing; and creating more outdoor patio seating. something casual or more professional.
Through both public and private partnerships, the master
plan will help to transform downtown by bringing even more BELOW: Marquee Cinemas, a seven-screen movie
retail and dining establishments and encouraging even more theatre, is another big draw to bring residents to
downtown Morganton nightly.
people to enjoy all the city has to offer. Photo credits: Paulette Mojica
By Lisa Wall
A Good Mood
Isn’t Temporary.
Here, It’s
A Way Of Life.
E 19
NC 8
SI
7
Grace Ridge P.O. Box 188 • 202 Church Street
Retirement Community Drexel, NC 28619
500 Lenoir Road
Morganton, NC 28655 GOOD MOODS (828) 437-7421 • (828) 437-4661 fax
GOOD TIMES
828-580-8300 • graceridge.org
info@graceridge.org
GOOD LIFE www.ci.drexel.nc.us
2 4 • BU R K E C O U N T Y, N O R T H C A R O L I N AYou can also read
