Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce News Newswire

Cleveland County Chamber Honors Emerging 10

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

At the Chamber's Annual Banquet in January, 10 Emerging businesses were honored with an annual award for their achievements.

This annual program recognizes the area's fastest and strongest growing small businesses for their exceptional achievements in the area of business development. The 10 companies are selected for their contributions to the region's economy and for how they have positioned themselves toward continued success. Nominated by their peers and clients, the companies selected for this year’s award have demonstrated strength in the following key areas:

• Sales
• Growth in employees
• Innovation
• Diversification
• Expansion
• Response to adversity
• Community aide/contributions

The Emerging10 Awards are presented by the Cleveland County Chamber. From those selected for this award one will be named the Carson L. Fox Small Business/Entrepreneur of the Year . The other nine businesses will be showcased throughout the year as a Small Business of the Month.

The 2008 Emerging 10 Businesses of the Year are:
Hendrick Appliance, owners Robin, Eric, and Kelly Hendrick
Wellington Hamrick, owner Kitty Hoyle
Personnel Services Unlimited, owner and president Tim Blackwell
Safety Test & Equipment, owner Drew Beam
Machine Builders & Design, owner Darryl Mims
Travel Lynx, owner Mark Bumgardner
Red Bone Willy's, owner Glenda Miller
Carolina Trophies, owner Marc Dedmon
J&E Sales, owner Bob Still
Bellus Tu Spa, owner Laurie Mancuso

86 NEW JOBS FOR CLEVELAND COUNTY

Sat, 27 Oct 2007 04:00:00 GMT

GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES 86 JOBS IN CLEVELAND COUNTY One North Carolina Fund Grant Helps Kitchen Ventilation Systems Locate in Kings Mountain Raleigh - Gov. Mike Easley today announced that Kitchen Ventilation Systems LLC will open a manufacturing plant in Cleveland County, creating 86 jobs and investing $5 million over the next three years. The announcement was made possible in part by a $68,000 One North Carolina Fund grant. “Kitchen Ventilation systems’ decision to locate in Cleveland County is a testament to our No. 1 ranked business climate,” Easley said. “We will continue to make the necessary investments in workforce development and education so that we remain the top choice for companies wanting to relocate or expand.” Kitchen Ventilation Systems of Schofield, Wis., will manufacture commercial kitchen ventilation systems at a facility in Kings Mountain. While wages will vary by job function, the average weekly wage of the new jobs will be $565 plus benefits, which is higher than the Cleveland County average weekly wage of $552 not including benefits “During the past several months we have had a team working to identify and recommend a site for our regional manufacturing operation in the southeastern U.S.,” said Brain Ranney, president of Kitchen Ventilation Systems. “After completing an extensive search and evaluation process we are excited to make Cleveland County our new manufacturing home. Key factors in our decision process were the ability to ship products within the region in two days or less, access to a skilled workforce, training and education opportunities, an expandable high quality facility, and aggressive economic development teams at the state, regional, county and local level.” “This decision is an affirmation that our economic development policies and incentives are working to attract quality firms and jobs, “said state Sen. Walter Dalton (D-Cleveland, Rutherford). “As a co-chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee I will continue to work to implement programs that provide employers an educated and trainable workforce.” “I am proud of the work the state House of Representatives has done to establish the kind of pro-business climate that attracts well-paying jobs,” said state Rep. Bob England (D-Rutherford). “As a member of the Commerce Committee, I will work to make sure our workforce has the kind of education and dedication employers seek.” The One North Carolina Fund assists the state in industry recruitment and expansion by providing financial assistance through local governments to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state. One North Carolina Fund grants require and are contingent upon a local match. Through the use of this Fund, more than 20,000 jobs and $3 billion in investment have been created since 2001. Other partners who helped make this announcement possible include the N.C. Department of Commerce, Cleveland County, Duke Energy, Charlotte Regional Partnership, Cleveland Community College and the N.C. Employment Security Commission. For more information about employment opportunities, please visit the North Carolina Employment Security office at 404 East Marion St., Shelby , NC 28150, (704) 480-5414. --------------------------------------- Office of the Governor 116 W. Jones Street, Suite 202, Raleigh , NC 27603-8001 Phone: (919) 733-5612 Fax: (919) 733-5166 An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

Incentives Approved for Possible Building of Southern Power Plant

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Cleveland County, NC – Tuesday, July 24th at the County Commissioners’ meeting, incentives were approved for the possible development of a Southern Power electric generating plant. The building of the plant will be determined if and when wholesale electricity contracts are obtained by the company. They would be developed in several phases.

The plant site has the potential to accommodate multiple natural gas units with a combined capacity of 1800 megawatts. The type of wholesale contracts obtained will also govern the order and type of units constructed.

Southern Power owns approximately 200 acres in the southern part of Cleveland County, near the South Carolina state line, where the potential plant would be developed. Long term investment for the county could range anywhere between $120 - $900 million.

Southern Power -- a subsidiary of Southern Company -- acquires, builds, manages and owns generation assets that have been constructed for the wholesale market. Southern Power is the largest wholesale energy provider in the Southeast, meeting the electricity needs of municipalities, electric cooperatives and investor-owned utilities in one of the fastest growing regions of the country. Southern Power currently owns and operates more than 6,700 megawatts of generation assets in Alabama, Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina.

For more information regarding Southern Power, contact Mike Tyndall at 1-800-506-5333 or visit their website at www.southernco.com.

807 NEW JOBS FOR CLEVELAND COUNTY

Wed, 18 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES CREATION OF 807 JOBS FOR CLEVELAND COUNTY State Grants Help Bring Chris-Craft Corporation and Indian Motorcycle Company to N.C. Raleigh - Gov. Mike Easley announced today that sister companies Chris-Craft Corporation and Indian Motorcycle Company will open facilities in Kings Mountain, investing approximately $42 million in Cleveland County and creating 807 jobs over the next five years. The announcement was made possible in part by grants from the state’s One North Carolina Fund and Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) program. “By choosing North Carolina, these companies offer proof that we have the skilled, knowledge-based workforce needed to support the growth and success of the boat and vehicle manufacturers in our state,” Easley said. “We will continue to make the necessary investments in education, infrastructure and workforce development so that we remain a top choice for companies wanting to relocate and expand.” Founded in 1874, Chris-Craft is the oldest boat manufacturer in the United States. The company will relocate its yacht division from Sarasota, Fla. to the former Daimler-Chrysler’s Axle Alliance building in Kings Mountain and plans to begin manufacturing next year. The majority of the 640 new jobs will be skilled production positions, and while individual wages will vary greatly, the average wage for all of these positions will be $32,000 a year plus benefits, which is greater than the Cleveland County average yearly pay of $28,700, not including benefits. Indian Motorcycle Company will move from Sarasota, Fla. and plans to invest more than $23 million to open a motorcycle production facility in the old International Paper plant near Kings Mountain. The new 167 jobs will be skilled production and engineer positions and while individual wages will vary greatly, the average wage for all of these positions will pay an average annual salary of $47,000 plus benefits, which is more than the Cleveland County average of $28,700 a year, not including benefits. “This state has a workforce with the skills we need to build boats. Former furniture makers and woodworkers are ideal employees for us,” said Stephen Heese, Chris-Craft Corporation president. “The central location near several interstates will facilitate product distribution, and the quality of life cannot be beat. The biggest factor in our decision was the warm reception we received by local and state officials, and their willingness to work with us to make this project happen.” “Our primary goal is to return Indian Motorcycle Company to its rightful position as a premium motorcycle brand, selling beautifully designed, high quality products and delivering world-class service,” said David Wright, Indian Motorcycle Company president. “North Carolina offers us the skilled workforce and business-friendly atmosphere to make that happen.” CHAR(39)CHAR(39)I applaud the wisdom of Chris-Craft and Indian Motorcycle in selecting Cleveland County for its new facilities,” said Senator Walter Dalton (D-Cleveland, Rutherford). “It is an excellent marriage between great companies and a great workforce.CHAR(39)CHAR(39) Boat manufacturing and other marine-related industries play a major economic role in North Carolina. The N.C. Department of Commerce and Small Business and Technology Development Center are actively collaborating to recruit these companies, resulting in more than 100 boat makers employing more than 25,000 North Carolina workers. Other partners who helped make this announcement possible include: the N.C. Community College System, Cleveland County, City of Kings Mountain, and Duke Energy. Both companies have been awarded a One North Carolina Fund grant and a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG). These two funds combined have helped create more than 30,000 jobs and an investment of more than $5 billion since 2001. The One North Carolina Fund assists the state in recruiting and expanding quality jobs by providing financial assistance to businesses or industries deemed by the Governor to be vital to a healthy and growing state economy. JDIG grants are awarded only to projects whose benefits exceed their costs to the state which would not be undertaken in North Carolina. Under the terms of the JDIG agreements, approved unanimously by the state Economic Investment Committee that oversees the program, a 10-year grant will be established for each company. Over the life of the two grants, the N.C. Department of Commerce estimates the projects will: • Generate a combined cumulative gross state product value of $566 million; • Produce a combined positive, cumulative net state revenue impact of $5.8 million. For each year that both companies meet required performance targets, the state will provide a grant equivalent to 65 percent of the state personal income withholding taxes derived from the creation of new jobs. If the company creates all of the jobs called for under the agreement and sustains them for 10 years, Indian Motorcycle Company and Chris-Craft Corporation could receive a combined maximum benefit of $7.56 million. For more information about Chris-Craft Corporation or job opportunities, visit www.chriscraftboats.com. For more information about Indian Motorcycle Company or job opportunities, visit www.indianmotorcycle.com.

Showtime Concession Supply Inc. Chooses Cleveland County as Home

Mon, 07 May 2007 04:00:00 GMT

(SHELBY, NC) We are pleased to announce that Showtime Concession Supply, Inc will be moving from Gaston County to their new home in Cleveland County. This company distributes and assembles concession supplies and equipment and will be locating to Plato Lee Road, Shelby. They will initially have five employees and hope to increase those numbers in the near future.

Showtime Concession Supply currently services 38 of the 50 states and is continually growing. Showtime has been servicing concession needs all across the United States for over ten years. They have available many high-profit snack and concession sites, which are designed for convenience, profitability, and quality to help keep even the smallest to the largest operations flowing smoothly. Showtime Concession Supply also provides food service items, as well as paper and janitorial supplies. Their catalog is available on their website and their customer service representatives can be reached for further details on their line of products. Website address: www.showtimeconcession.com

PPG, Devold sign agreement for North American joint venture

Mon, 19 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

SHELBY, N.C., Feb. 13, 2007 – PPG Industries (NYSE:PPG) and Devold AMT AS today signed an agreement here forming a 50-50 joint venture to manufacture glass-fiber reinforcement fabrics used in turbine blades for the North American wind energy market. The parties had previously announced their intention to form a joint venture. The multiaxial and unidirectional fabrics are major components in wind turbine blades. PPG fiber glass is also used in the manufacture of various marine, construction and consumer products. The new venture, PPG-Devold, leverages PPG’s infrastructure and position in the United States and Devold’s investment in stitched reinforcement technology, according to Victoria M. Holt, PPG senior vice president, glass and fiber glass. The joint venture will include construction of stitched reinforcement fiber glass production lines and generate new jobs at PPG’s wholly-owned fiber glass plant here. Ted Alexander, mayor, City of Shelby; David Dear, manager, Cleveland County; and Stuart Gilbert, president, Cleveland County Chamber, were all present for the signing event. “This joint venture will strengthen PPG’s position as a major supplier of high-quality fiber glass products to the wind energy market, and it illustrates our commitment to serving wind energy leaders working to develop alternative energy sources,” Holt said. “It also shows how PPG is finding new ways to serve end-use markets and continue our leadership in the fiber glass industry.” By establishing manufacturing in the United States, Devold AMT “takes an important step toward becoming a global supplier to the wind energy industry,” said Johan Fausa, managing director, Devold AMT. “Our partnership with PPG will strengthen our position to grow in both existing and new markets, especially the world’s fastest-growing market in the United States.” According to the Global Wind Energy Council, 22 percent of total new capacity added in 2006 was in North America (3,230 megawatts), with a total installed worldwide wind energy capacity of 74,223 megawatts at year’s end. Officers of PPG-Devold LLC are Kåre Dybvik, chief executive officer, and Herbert Elder, president and operations manager. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. About PPG Pittsburgh-based PPG is a global supplier of coatings, chemicals, optical products, glass and fiber glass. The company employs nearly 34,000 people and has 124 manufacturing facilities and equity affiliates in more than 20 countries. Sales in 2006 were $11 billion. PPG shares are traded on the New York and Philadelphia stock exchanges (symbol: PPG). For more information, visit www.ppg.com. Forward-Looking Statement Statements contained herein relating to matters that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements reflecting PPG’s current view with respect to future events and financial performance. These matters involve risks and uncertainties that may affect PPG’s operations, as discussed in PPG’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Sections 13(a), 13(c) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. Accordingly, many factors may cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained herein. Such factors include increasing price and product competition by foreign and domestic competitors, fluctuations in cost and availability of raw materials and energy, the ability to maintain favorable supplier relationships and arrangements, economic and political conditions in international markets, foreign exchange rates and fluctuations in such rates, and the unpredictability of existing and possible future litigation, including litigation that could result if the asbestos settlement discussed in PPG’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission does not become effective. However, it is not possible to predict or identify all such factors. Consequently, while the list of factors presented here is considered representative, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Unlisted factors may present significant additional obstacles to the realization of forward-looking statements. Consequences of material differences in results compared with those anticipated in the forward-looking statements could include, among other things, business disruption, operational problems, financial loss, legal liability to third parties and similar risks, any of which could have a material adverse effect on PPG’s consolidated financial condition, operations or liquidity. All information in this news release speaks only as of Feb. 13, 2007, and any distribution of this news release after that date is not intended and will not be construed as updating or confirming such information.

Telecast on Faith Based Economic Development

Fri, 16 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 12, 2007 CONTACT: Stuart Gilbert Telecast on Faith Based Economic Development Shelby, NC – The Cleveland County Chamber is partnering with Cleveland Community College to bring a telecast on faith based economic development to the county on February 21, 2007. The telecast will be open to the public for viewing from 3:00-4:00 p.m. in the Mildred H. Keeter Auditorium of Cleveland Community College. Economic Development is a team, really a community wide sport. It requires unity amongst the public and private sectors. Increasingly, nation wide, communities that involve the faith based community are becoming more successful at economic development. Look at some of our faith based institutions’ resources that are so important to increased unity and the ability to work together: 1. Congregations are composed of individuals with experience in extremely diverse fields that are willing to help others at no cost. 2. Faith Based Institutions are located everywhere in Cleveland County and our region. 3. Faith Based Institutions have buildings that for the most part could be used much more frequently, and for many people going to their faith based institution is a less intimidated place to go than a government office or college classroom. 4. Our local Faith Based Institutions offer spiritual and moral guidance and the opportunity to understand our purpose on earth and to help the lost to find the way to everlasting life. Chamber President Stuart Gilbert feels this unity will play a vital role in increasing economic development. “In the last six months as we have announcements that over a five year period will net over 2000 new jobs, I give Glory to God for answering our prayers for more jobs and opportunities in Cleveland County and our area. I hope that pastors and lay leadership will take the opportunity to come to this one hour meeting and investigate opportunities for ministry in their church that will help people to obtain a job. Last year a pilot program offered by a number of local Methodist churches in Cleveland County that gave hope and many resources to many jobless Cleveland Countians. Other local churches are investigating and helping the jobless. Most of us would agree that each family needs a job to provide adequately for their family. Let’s help each other to build unity in our communities by encouraging faith based institutions to bring opportunities to those that have been previously unreachable and to theleast of thee.” This telecast will focus on the impacts of faith-based initiatives on economic development and feature Missouri Senator Kit Bond, Deputy Assistant to the President Jay Hein, and Assistant Secretary of Commerce Sandy Baruah. The Assistant Secretary will interview representatives from the William M. Factory Small Business Incubator that recently received a service award from the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives as champions of compassion. The telecast will also showcase the recognition ceremony of the St. Patrick Center in St. Louis, MO, in which it received a Department of Commerce EDA award for Excellence in Economic Development in the category of Community and Faith-Based Social Entrepreneurship. For more information on the telecast, please visit http://narc.org/events/telecasts/faith-based-economic-development.html. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 12, 2007 CONTACT: Stuart Gilbert Telecast on Faith Based Economic Development Shelby, NC – The Cleveland County Chamber is partnering with Cleveland Community College to bring a telecast on faith based economic development to the county on February 21, 2007. The telecast will be open to the public for viewing from 3:00-4:00 p.m. in the Mildred H. Keeter Auditorium of Cleveland Community College. Economic Development is a team, really a community wide sport. It requires unity amongst the public and private sectors. Increasingly, nation wide, communities that involve the faith based community are becoming more successful at economic development. Look at some of our faith based institutions’ resources that are so important to increased unity and the ability to work together: 1. Congregations are composed of individuals with experience in extremely diverse fields that are willing to help others at no cost. 2. Faith Based Institutions are located everywhere in Cleveland County and our region. 3. Faith Based Institutions have buildings that for the most part could be used much more frequently, and for many people going to their faith based institution is a less intimidated place to go than a government office or college classroom. 4. Our local Faith Based Institutions offer spiritual and moral guidance and the opportunity to understand our purpose on earth and to help the lost to find the way to everlasting life. Chamber President Stuart Gilbert feels this unity will play a vital role in increasing economic development. “In the last six months as we have announcements that over a five year period will net over 2000 new jobs, I give Glory to God for answering our prayers for more jobs and opportunities in Cleveland County and our area. I hope that pastors and lay leadership will take the opportunity to come to this one hour meeting and investigate opportunities for ministry in their church that will help people to obtain a job. Last year a pilot program offered by a number of local Methodist churches in Cleveland County that gave hope and many resources to many jobless Cleveland Countians. Other local churches are investigating and helping the jobless. Most of us would agree that each family needs a job to provide adequately for their family. Let’s help each other to build unity in our communities by encouraging faith based institutions to bring opportunities to those that have been previously unreachable and to theleast of thee.” This telecast will focus on the impacts of faith-based initiatives on economic development and feature Missouri Senator Kit Bond, Deputy Assistant to the President Jay Hein, and Assistant Secretary of Commerce Sandy Baruah. The Assistant Secretary will interview representatives from the William M. Factory Small Business Incubator that recently received a service award from the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives as champions of compassion. The telecast will also showcase the recognition ceremony of the St. Patrick Center in St. Louis, MO, in which it received a Department of Commerce EDA award for Excellence in Economic Development in the category of Community and Faith-Based Social Entrepreneurship. For more information on the telecast, please visit http://narc.org/events/telecasts/faith-based-economic-development.html.

Telerx Selects Kings Mountain, Cleveland County

Fri, 12 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Shelby, NC – January 8, 2007 – Today at 2:00 pm at the Cleveland County Chamber Norm Bresemann, Senior Vice President of Support Services announced that Telerx, a leading outsource partner that provides world-class customer care services, has chosen Kings Mountain, Cleveland County North Carolina for the location of its sixth customer contact center. Ranked a “Top Outsourcer” in 2006 by Contact Center World, Telerx was distinguished in inbound services among mid-size service providers. “I applaud Telerx for selecting Cleveland County for this facility,” said Senator Walter Dalton (D-Cleveland-Rutherford). “This is evidence that our recovery is real and is a testament to the area’s great workforce.” “We are excited Telerx is coming to Cleveland County. This is a good company that will provide great jobs to Cleveland County residents,” Representative Tim Moore explains. “I am pleased that the State of North Carolina was in a position to assist the Cleveland County Economic Development Office in bringing this company to our community. This shows we are continuing on the road to economic recovery.” Telerx Senior Vice President Norm Bresemann said the company chose North Carolina for its newest location because, “We are very impressed with the service orientation and work ethic of the people of North Carolina and the spirit of cooperation and community support within the State, Cleveland County, Gardner-Webb University and Cleveland Community College.” In addition, Bresemann said the company was “overwhelmed with the hospitality and interest in our business that the citizens of Shelby, Kings Mountain, and the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce have demonstrated.” Kings Mountain was selected based on its lower-cost, diverse labor pool, growth potential, community receptivity, and the commitment of the state and local government to continued investments in education, worker training, and infrastructure. “The community is welcoming and service-oriented, offering an available, quality workforce,” stated Amy Abrams, President of Telerx. Development is currently underway for a new 60,000 square foot facility. The site will have the capacity to accommodate over 450 customer service representatives and support staff. “We are confident that Cleveland County offers a labor pool that will maintain and enrich the high standards Telerx sets in managing and strengthening these customer relationships on behalf of our clients,” says Group Vice President and General Manager Holly Beatty. Telerx helps blue chip companies interact with their customers via multi-channel contacts including phone, email, the Internet, mail, and fax. Customer service representatives are trained to enhance customer relationships, strengthen repurchase intent, build brand and corporate loyalty, and maximize customer lifetime value. “We form long-term relationships with service-oriented companies to handle their ongoing customer care initiatives,” explained Abrams. “We provide relationship management services to a diverse array of industries, including restaurant/retail; consumer durable goods; consumer packaged goods such as food and beverage products, personal care and household products, as well as the healthcare industry.” Telerx’s focus on complex, customer care services and its comprehensive service offering designed to build relationships and product loyalty has resulted in its ongoing growth and development – from the number of clients it serves and programs it handles – to its staff, areas of expertise, capabilities, facilities, and revenue. As more and more companies are recognizing the value of interacting with and building relationships with their customers, they are turning to Telerx for leadership and guidance in managing customer interactions and strengthening relationships. On behalf of its impressive list of clients, Telerx interacts with millions of consumers, patients, and healthcare providers every year. Telerx will begin hiring staff for its Kings Mountain, Cleveland County facility soon. The company will be looking for associates who have excellent customer service skills, an affinity for the product or service they represent – as well as the ability to identify with and respond to the emotional needs of callers. Telerx is also interested in receiving information from technology experts, health care and contact center management professionals, and support personnel. Interested applicants can call 1-800-2-Telerx, send resumé to JobInquiry@Telerx.com, or visit our web site at www.telerx.com. The One North Carolina Fund assists the state in industry recruitment and expansion by providing grants to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create jobs in the state. Through the use of this Fund, more than 20,000 jobs and $3 billion in investment have been created since 2001. One NC Fund grants require local matching funds, and this grant is contingent upon approval of a grant by the Cleveland County Board of Commissioners. Telerx’s corporate headquarters and contact center – as well as its corporate operations center – are located in Horsham, Pennsylvania. Additional contact centers are located in Allentown, Pennsylvania; Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania; El Paso, Texas; and Penticton, British Columbia.

STEAG LLC Expands Services To Include Catalyst Regeneration

Mon, 11 Dec 2006 05:00:00 GMT

Kings Mountain, NC: STEAG LLC announced they are expanding the services they offer to SCR owners and operators to include catalyst cleaning, rejuvenation and regeneration. In 1997, STEAG’s parent in Germany, STEAG AG, which operates 24 SCRs, developed a process to refurbish catalyst deactivated by burning bituminous coals and various secondary fuels and restore the catalyst to its original activity level. STEAG AG has successfully regenerated various types of catalyst for their own fleet and is now offering the same service to the North American utility market through their wholly owned subsidiary, STEAG LLC located in North Carolina. In making the announcement, Hans Hartenstein, president of STEAG LLC stated, “Since 1992 STEAG has provided engineering and consulting services to North American power producers. We are very pleased to be able to provide our North American customers now with catalyst regeneration services to further assist them in their goals of meeting NOx emission limits while keeping down their operating and maintenance costs. “Our experience has shown that regenerated catalyst costs only about half of the cost of new catalyst and we have found there is no difference in the deactivation rate between new and regenerated catalyst. This allows us to fully make use of the extensive knowledge and experience gained within our own SCR fleet during the last 10 years to greatly benefit the North American SCR users” stated Ralf Gilgen, president of STEAG encotec GmbH, the engineering, consulting and technical division of STEAG AG. Mr. Hartenstein also stated, “We are pleased to announce that STEAG has signed our first contract and will regenerate 144 modules (310m3) of catalyst for the 675 MW coal-fired AES Somerset plant, located in Barker, NY.” Kevin Pierce, Plant Manager at AES Somerset stated, “We are pleased to be the first to sign a catalyst regeneration contract with STEAG. Previous work done by STEAG has been of the highest quality and we look forward to a long relationship.” STEAG LLC recently moved into its new North American corporate headquarters in Kings Mountain, North Carolina about 30 miles west of Charlotte, N.C.. Startup of the regeneration facility is scheduled for the second quarter of 2007. STEAG’s new facility of more than 100,000 sq. ft. includes a two-story production area, catalyst storage area, an on-site quality assurance and quality control testing lab, and office space. Additional warehouse space is also available for future expansion. # Contact Linda Licata STEAG LLC Phone: 704-588-7657 Cell: 914-672-3834 E-mail: LLicata@STEAGllc.com

Ultra Machine Announces New Expansion to Shelby

Tue, 21 Nov 2006 05:00:00 GMT

GOV. EASLEY ANNOUNCES 63 JOBS IN CLEVELAND COUNTY One North Carolina Fund Grant Helps Ultra Machine & Fabrication Inc. Expand In Shelby Raleigh - Gov. Mike Easley today announced that Ultra Machine & Fabrication Inc. will expand in Cleveland County, creating 63 jobs and investing $6 million during the next three years. The announcement was made possible in part by a $108,000 One North Carolina Fund grant. “Ultra Machine & Fabrication’s decision to expand means more skilled jobs for the hardworking people of Cleveland County,” Easley said. “We will continue to make the critical investments in education, worker training and infrastructure that make North Carolina an attractive place to do business.” Ultra Machine & Fabrication Inc. is a precision fabricator of welded armored sub-assemblies for military contractors. Currently based in Kings Mountain with 112 employees, the company will move to a larger facility in nearby Shelby. While wages will vary by job function, the average weekly wage of the new jobs will be $800 plus benefits, which is more than the Cleveland County average weekly wage of $552 not including benefits. “North Carolina is a great place to do business. The skilled labor, access to major highways, partnerships with local governments and the community were the deciding factors in our decision to continue expanding our operations in the Tar Heel state,” said Frank Stewart, president of Ultra Machine and Fabrication Inc. The One North Carolina Fund assists the state in industry recruitment and expansion by providing financial assistance through local governments to attract business projects that will stimulate economic activity and create new jobs in the state. One North Carolina Fund grants require and are contingent upon a local match. Through the use of this Fund, more than 20,000 jobs and $3 billion in investment have been created since 2001. “These are the results of developing policies that make North Carolina a business-friendly state,” said Sen. Walter Dalton (D-Cleveland, Rutherford). “As a leader in the state Senate I will continue to work to pass laws that provide businesses with an educated and trained workforce.” “I will continue to advocate for laws that make North Carolina a place where businesses know they can succeed and grow,” said Rep. Bob England (D-Cleveland, Rutherford). “It is important to make sure the state, local communities and businesses work together and provide opportunities for our citizens.” Other partners who helped make this announcement possible include the N.C. Department of Commerce, Cleveland County and the City of Shelby. For more information about the company and employment opportunities, visit: www.umf1.com, or call (704) 730-8735 and ask for the Human Resource department.

Indian® Motorcycle Company Announces New Home

Thu, 20 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Indian® Motorcycle Company Announces New Home Kings Mountain, NC (July 20, 2006) – Indian® Motorcycle Company is pleased to announce that it will be revving up its engine in a new home. After carefully reviewing location options throughout the United States, Indian® has selected a factory in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, where it will place its world headquarters. The site, located in Cleveland County, 37 miles west of downtown Charlotte, includes 11 acres of property and a 40,000 square foot manufacturing facility which is expandable to 125,000 square feet. “We believe Cleveland County and the greater Charlotte area are a perfect fit for Indian® Motorcycle Company and we’re proud to call this area home,” said Indian Chairman, Stephen Julius. “We are in the heart of our nation’s powersports industry, with access to design, engineering and mechanical talent, worldclass suppliers, motorsport education centers and year-round motorcycle riding weather. In addition, this area provides us with economic advantages, including a low overall cost of doing business, which was aided by a strong incentive package provided by Cleveland County and by the State of North Carolina.” The announcement of the factory site marks the official re-launch of Indian® Motorcycle Company, America’s oldest and most iconic motorcycle brand, founded in 1901. In preparation for Indian’s re-launch, management has spent considerable time over the last two years researching the American motorcycle market and learning from the successes and failures of other market entrants. In particular, Indian has studied the tremendous growth of Harley-Davidson from near-bankruptcy in the early 1980’s to a multi-billion dollar success story today. However, Indian is intent on slowly carving out its own niche in the large and growing heavyweight cruiser motorcycle market. There is a considerable consumer base for a premium line of motorcycles under the Indian Motorcycle brand, which has an almost cult-like status amongst many consumers. The company will focus on supplying genuine, American made, motorcycles which are beautifully designed, made of the highest quality materials, reliable and supported by a qualified dealer network. Over the next 12 months, Indian will focus on design, engineering and testing activities, with the objective of introducing the famed Indian® Chief® motorcycle in the second half of 2007. To head up its product development team, Indian has hired Geoffrey Burgess, a world-renowned motorcycle engineer and product development expert. Geoff was most recently the Chief Technology Officer at Global Motorsports Group (“GMG”), owner of Custom Chrome, a provider of parts and accessories to the American V-twin motorcycle market. Prior to GMG, Geoff was head of product development at S&S Cycle, Inc., a leading V-twin engine manufacturing company, where he drove product innovation and process improvement to new levels. Prior to joining S&S, Geoff was the first employee and Chief Engineer at the Victory Motorcycle division of Polaris Industries, Inc., in Roseau, Minnesota. Geoff has also served in various senior engineering capacities at General Motors, Bombardier Recreational Products (Valcourt, Quebec), BSA-Triumph Motorcycles and Norton-Villiers Motorcycle Group. “Having Geoff on our team is a big win for Indian®,” commented Indian President, David Wright. “His breadth and depth of knowledge of the American motorcycle market is impressive and his technical capabilities unsurpassed. He has outstanding powertrain and chassis design and development experience which we will put to good use. He is the perfect person for this role.” Mr. Burgess commented, “I know that the executive management of Indian® understand the importance of product development, engineering and testing to current industry OEM standards. I have been very impressed with their thoughtful and long-term approach to this exciting opportunity.” Indian is presently seeking to expand its team of engine and chassis engineers, technicians and CAD designers. “Our team will focus on design, quality, craftsmanship and service,” commented Mr. Wright. “Indian remains among the most powerful brands in the U.S. motorcycle market, and our team is committed to re-building the extraordinary legend of Indian®.” In the first half of 2007, Indian® will begin the process of developing a small but highly qualified network of motorcycle dealers who understand and appreciate the heritage of Indian® and recognize the growth potential of this opportunity. The controlling shareholder of Indian® Motorcycle Company is London based Stellican Limited which has an impressive track record of resurrecting classic brands, including, most recently, the successful re-launch of Chris-Craft® boats, which was founded in 1874 and is among the oldest boat brands in the United States. “We will apply the same practical and long-term approach to Indian as we have employed successfully at Chris-Craft”, commented Stephen Julius, Chairman of both Indian Motorcycle and Chris-Craft. “We are confident we will repeat our success with Indian® by remaining true to the rich heritage of this incredible brand and doing things slowly and thoroughly. We are certain that there is an important role for Indian® in the future of the American motorcycle market” added Mr. Julius. July 20th 2006 Media Contacts Stephen Julius Chairman Tel: 01144-7773-765286 Email: sjulius@indianmotorcycle.com David Wright President & CEO Tel: 941-3024339 Email: dave@indianmotorcycle.com Indian Motorcycle Company 116 Battleground Road Kings Mountain, NC 28086

Chris-Craft Announces Opening of Yacht Division in North Carolina

Thu, 20 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Chris-Craft Announces Opening of Yacht Division in North Carolina SARASOTA, Fla. (July 20, 2006) – Chris-Craft today announced it will be expanding its operations by opening a second production facility in Kings Mountain, N.C. Kings Mountain is located in Cleveland County, just west of Charlotte, N.C. The new facility is 215,000 square feet and sits on 85 acres. The company will transfer its production of yachts from 33 to 40 feet to the new facility. Currently, these models are built in Sarasota, where the company is headquartered. Chris-Craft will create 640 jobs at the new facility over the next five years. At the same time, the company plans to maintain its current workforce in Florida by introducing several new boats that are less than 30 feet in length to the Sarasota plant. “Western North Carolina provides a big opportunity for Chris-Craft,” says Steve Heese, President. “There are a significant number of potential employees available from the furniture and textile industries that are skilled craftsmen. Their skills will be ideal for building our premium quality yachts. This is an exciting time for our company. Our sales growth has exceeded the capacity limits of our Sarasota plant, and the new facility will see the company through the next stage of its development.” Initially, Chris-Craft will select a group of employees from the Sarasota facility to start production in North Carolina. The company will begin outfitting the building, which was formerly owned by Freightliner Corporation, for boat-building in the near future. The anticipated production start date is during the first quarter of 2007. The majority of the new jobs created will be skilled production positions. Based in Sarasota, Fla., Chris-Craft is the oldest boat manufacturer in the United States. It has a fleet of eleven models ranging from 20 to 40 feet. Over the next three years, Chris- Craft plans to unveil nine more models, expanding the range even further. With a tradition of excellence dating back to 1874, the Chris-Craft name represents craftsmanship, classic elegance, total reliability and performance. For more information, visit the Web site at www.chriscraft.com. Chris-Craft is owned by Stellican Limited, a London-based private equity firm headed by Stephen Julius. The firm acquires and revives distressed companies with famous brand names. Stellican purchased Chris-Craft in 2001. Stellican also owns Indian Motorcycle Company, which also today announced the opening of a motorcycle production facility in Cleveland County, N.C.

Chris Craft & Indian Motorcycles Quotes from Presidents & Dignitaries

Tue, 18 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

"Cleveland County, North Carolina, provides a big opportunity for Chris-Craft," says Steve Heese, President. "There are a significant number of potential employees available from the furniture and textile industries that are skilled craftsmen. Their skills will be ideal for building our premium quality yachts. This is an exciting time for our company. Our sales growth has exceeded the capacity limits of our Sarasota plant, and the new facility will see the company through the next stage of its development." - Steve Heese, Chris Craft President "We believe that Cleveland County and the State of North Carolina are a perfect fit for Indian Motorcycle Company and we are proud to call this area home! We are in the heart of the nation’s power sports industry, with access to design, engineering, and mechanical talent, world class suppliers, motor sport education centers and year round motorcycle riding weather. This is an exciting new chapter in the rich history of Indian motorcycle company. We look forward to calling Cleveland County, North Carolina home for a long time to come!” - David P. Wright, Indian Motorcycle President "I think the news we have heard today is the most exciting news we have had in Cleveland County in some time. We all agree for the county to prosper we must have more jobs and this allows us to have, in the next 5 years, 800+ jobs. I would like to thank the 20/20 Focus Economic Development Executive Committee, Stuart Gilbert, the Chamber staff, all of our commissioners, councilmen, mayors, city managers, and David Dear, County Manager, who worked hard so that we could get these jobs for Cleveland County. We also appreciate the support of the governor of North Carolina, our local senator and house members, our State Department of Commerce, and the Charlotte Regional Partnership. I know this sounds like a lot of thanks, but it took much effort from so many people for these companies to select Cleveland County." - Adelaide Craver, Chairperson, Cleveland 20/20 Executive Committee "We welcome Chris-Craft and Indian Motorcycle Co. to our community. Kings Mountain is a historical city and we are excited to see two great American companies with so much prestige and history investing in our historical community creating quality jobs. We look forward to assist in the establishment of an Indian Motorcycle museum in our downtown. This museum would be the corner stone to our downtown revitalization. We have been working to position Kings Mountain for industrial growth and continue to work to develop quality of life programs. Wow...this announcements says it all. this has been a team effort: local, county and state working together." - Rick Murphrey, Mayor of Kings Mountain "This is great news for all of Cleveland County and will have a positive economic impact for all of our municipalities, including Shelby. I want to thank and congratulate all of those who worked so hard to bring these industries to Cleveland County.” - Ted Alexander, Mayor of Shelby “The decision by Chris Craft and Indian Motorcycles to locate in Cleveland County is greatly appreciated. The economic potential for our county is great with these two companies locating here. They bring quality jobs, and a quality product and those will help us to create growth for Cleveland County. We especially like to thank both companies for their confidence in our workforce and believing that Cleveland County is the right place for their companies to grow and succeed!" - Ronnie Hawkins, Chair, County Commissioners “I want to personally thank and welcome the corporate leaders of both Chris Craft and Indian Motorcycle for their decision to locate their combined five year investments of over $40 million dollars and 800 new jobs to our community. These new industries will create a positive economic multiplier and we will do everything thing we can to encourage additional suppliers of these quality companies to locate in Cleveland County and increase travel tourism for these yachts and motorcycles that have such a rich American history on quality US manufacturing.” - Willie McIntosh, Cleveland County Commissioner “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the other County Commissioners, the County Manager, the 20/20 Partnership ,the Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce, and all the state elected Representatives and Committees, for their hard work and dedication put forth in helping obtain the Project Float to be located in Cleveland County. All of this has been accomplished during a time when unemployment is on the rise and several of our local businesses have chosen to close or relocate. This is even more of a reason to be proud of your relentless efforts. This endeavor will be a major boost for economic development for Cleveland County. Most of all, we need to thank this company for selecting our county for their relocation. Thank You again for your hard work and commitment to Cleveland County and its residents.” - Johnny Hutchins, Cleveland County Commissioner “It speaks well for the Cleveland County manufacturing workers and our quality of life that this quality high-end boat company has chosen to locate here." - Jerry Self, Cleveland County Commissioner “This is a zenith day for Cleveland County to have two historic companies announce openings with a future of having excellent employment opportunities for our citizens. It is a “giant team leap” in a positive direction for economic growth in our county.” - Mary Accor, Cleveland County Commissioner

Binswanger Sells Anderson-Cook's Former KM Property

Wed, 26 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE – April 18, 2006 – Binswanger is pleased to announce the recent sale of Anderson-Cook’s 50,000 square foot facility and 7.0 acres located in the Cleveland County Industrial Park, Kings Mountain, NC to The Keith Corporation. The Keith Corporation is actively engaged in the development of business parks and industrial build-to-suit and speculative properties in the Charlotte region. Alan Lewis, Industrial Development Partner with The Keith Corporation commented, “This is one of the finest manufacturing facilities of its size in the Carolinas. The acquisition fits our strategy of developing and owning quality, industrial properties in established industrial parks throughout the Charlotte region.” The Keith Corporation is offering the facility for lease and will expand the facility to as much as 120,000 sq. ft. for a tenant. "Cleveland County is very pleased to see one of the Charlotte Region's top developers buy this excellent facility that is available for immediate occupancy and to make a financial investment in Cleveland County” said Cleveland County Chamber President Stuart C. Gilbert, CEcD. Our Cleveland 20 20 Economic Development Partnership is pleased to be working closely with the Keith Corporation to add more jobs and investments in Cleveland County. We look forward to supporting the Keith Corporation in getting this facility leased as soon as possible!.” Located at 212 Commerce Boulevard, this never occupied, newly constructed, fully air-conditioned facility features 6” reinforced concrete floors; insulated pre-cast concrete panel walls; ceiling heights to 24’6” clear; all utilities; 100% wet sprinkler system; 3,000 square feet of modern office space; compressed air grid with two air compressors, three runs of 600 amp bus duct, and multiple truck docks. The seller, Anderson-Cook, was founded in 1971 and is a world leader in the production of spline rolling machines and tools and provide unsurpassed quality products and services to domestic and international automotive and powertrain manufacturers. Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, The Keith Corporation specializes in build-to-suit and business park development, property management, and real estate investments across the United States. Over the last ten years, The Keith Corporation has completed approximately 100 projects totaling over $800,000,000 in project cost. These projects encompassed office, industrial, and retail build-to-suit development, acquisitions, and speculative development in NC, FL, SC, PA, NJ, UT, TX, GA, TN, VA, MD, and DE. Headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, Binswanger is an international, full-service real estate organization with over 160 offices worldwide throughout the U.S.A., Canada, Mexico and South America, the U.K. and Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Alive Apparel Inc, Announces New Facility in Fallston, NC

Tue, 14 Feb 2006 05:00:00 GMT

(Fallston, NC) Cleveland 20/20 announces the addition of Alive Apparel Incorporated, a screen printing company offering custom and contract apparel screen printing. Alive Apparel is in the process of hiring approximately 15 employees for its facility located at 331 Jim Cline Road in Fallston. Additional growth is possible in the future. The company produces quality screen printed apparel for sporting suppliers of major national retailers. They produce collegiate licensed apparel in addition to NBA, NHL, and racing apparel. A turnkey business, the company also offers packaging and shipping services. Alive Apparel printed over one million units last year, and is anticipating printing even more this year. Long-term goals for the company include creating private-labeled Christian apparel. Business owners Steve and Lee Carter are relocating their business from Aynor, S.C. where it was started in 1999. Looking to relocate their business for over a year, the Carters searched in South Carolina and Georgia before deciding to purchase the 26,000 square-foot facility in Fallston. Shadowline Lingerie was originally located in the building. Carter explained that there were several reasons he and his wife decided to relocate to Fallston. “We looked at the building, and the area, and thought it was a good employment base. We also liked the fact that by moving here we would be centrally located to some of our major accounts. I can easily drive to Charlotte, Winston-Salem or Atlanta. In the end, we just feel like this is where the good Lord wanted us and we are excited to be here.” Local leaders are excited about this announcement and this business addition in Upper Cleveland. Danny Clay, Mayor of Fallston, commented “I’ve met the Carters and toured the facility and it appears to be a first class operation. We are very happy they have chosen Fallston as the place to grow their business.” Willie McIntosh, Cleveland County Commissioner and Cleveland 20/20 Board Member said “We are excited the Carters chose Cleveland County and the Town of Fallston. The County and Cleveland 20/20 are committed to bringing quality companies to all areas of the county.” Adelaide Craver, Chairwoman of Cleveland 20/20, stated “It is a great statement of the public/private partnership under Cleveland 20/20; our staff, investors, and elected officials all work hard to bring economic opportunities and prosperity to Cleveland County. We look forward to assisting Alive Apparel in their new operation in Fallston.”

Ultra Machine & Fabrication Expands into Cleveland County

Tue, 11 Oct 2005 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 11, 2005 Ultra Machine and Fabrication, Inc. Expands into Cleveland County Company Anticipates a $1.5 Million Investment and Will Employ Up To 35 People (Kings Mountain, NC) – A 16-year-old manufacturing company is celebrating its relocation to Kings Mountain this week as they begin the move into their new facility today. Ultra Machine and Fabrication, Inc. (UM&F), owned by Frank and Michele Stewart of Gastonia, has a new home at 709 Broadview Street in Kings Mountain, and their connection to the community may be even more significant to families and friends of those recently deployed from the local National Guard to Iraq. “Over the last two years we have diversified our business and have entered into a new market as a sub-contractor for the U.S. military,” says UM&F President Frank Stewart. “Many of the products that we are now producing are made of Armor Plate and are assembled in vehicles that are shipped directly to Iraq and Afghanistan. It is wonderful to know that the very vehicles we help make are being used to protect young men and women from this area, as well as others around the country, who are currently serving in the war.” Kings Mountain Mayor Rick Murphrey is pleased the company has enjoyed such success and is thrilled they are providing much-needed jobs in the community. “Ultra Machine & Fabrication, Inc. is an excellent corporate citizen and it has been a pleasure working with Mr. Stewart to help him position his company for expansion and continued success,” said Mayor Murphrey. “At this time in our community with our National Guard 505th Division serving in Iraq, we are very proud to have UM&F manufacturing the products that keep our men and women in uniform safer as they risk their lives to defend our freedom.” The company was established in 1989 to meet a huge demand for precision machined and fabricated parts. Over the years, UM&F has serviced many industries in the southeast, including electronic, fiber glass, textile, tobacco, rubber, and most recently, military vehicle components. According to Stewart, over the past few years the company’s employment has grown to 25 and they expect to hire 10 more people over the next six months to a year. Initially located in Gaston County, Stewart credits the Mayor of Kings Mountain, city officials, and Cleveland County officials with helping make the decision to move to Kings Mountain an easy one. John Barker, Sr. of John Barker Realty worked with the Stewarts in order to help them locate the best building available to meet their growing needs. “It is always gratifying when a great facility is available for a tremendous company like UM&F,” said Barker. “This was a unified effort and the win for Cleveland County demonstrates the power of team collaboration.” Stewart appreciates his commitment and dedication to the project. “From the time my wife and I met John Barker, we knew that he would find the perfect place for us,” said Stewart. “He understood our vision for our company and after an extensive search in several counties we settled on this beautiful facility in Kings Mountain. His hard work and commitment to us and to our company will always be remembered.” The Cleveland 20/20 Economic Development Partnership was also instrumental in making this industry expansion a success. The company will qualify for local industry incentive grants based upon their investment in the community. Adelaide Craver, Cleveland 20/20 Chairwoman, believes that this company is an excellent example of the type of industry the county has worked so hard to attract. “The establishment of Ultra Machine & Fabrication in Cleveland County will lead to a much healthier economic environment for existing businesses,” says Craver. “We know that Frank is committed to building long-term relationships with both customers and vendors and that he will do everything he can to support this community. In turn, we will do everything in our power to assist his company in whatever endeavors they undertake.” Cleveland County Commissioner and Cleveland 20/20 Board Member Willie McIntosh agrees. “Cleveland County is fortunate to establish a relationship with a company of this caliber,” says McIntosh. “We wish Ultra Machine & Fabrication, Inc. much success in their investment in Cleveland County.” Owner Frank Stewart believes in providing excellent service, innovation, and value to customers. “UM&F is always updating our manufacturing equipment and software to keep up the rapid pace of technological advances,” he says. “We never have and never will settle for the status-quo, because we push to be the best in our industry.” For more information about Ultra Machine & Fabrication, Inc., visit the company web site at www.umf1.com. ###

Economic Development Restructuring Proposal Now Complete

Wed, 15 Jun 2005 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 15, 2005; 6:30 p.m. EDT Economic Development Proposal Now Complete Restructuring Committee Unanimously Endorses New Plan (Cleveland County, NC) – The vision of an endeared county leader is being carried forward today as public and private sector officials are unveiling their proposal for the restructuring of economic development that will provide a voice for the private sector for the first time in county history. Prior to 2002, the economic development department was part of county government. At the time, then-commissioner Charlie Harry saw new possibilities for Cleveland County by moving economic development to the Cleveland County Chamber. Although Commissioner Harry passed away before seeing the results of his vision, other community leaders recognized the importance and wisdom behind the idea. The economic development department officially became part of the Chamber in the fall of 2002 with a plan to pursue private funding for economic development within two years. While the process has been evolving since economic development was moved under the Chamber’s organizational umbrella, those involved in the most-recent restructuring unanimously approved the new composition for economic development to include public and private sector partners. The proposal will be voted upon by the Cleveland County Chamber Board of Directors and Cleveland County Commissioners during separate meetings on June 21. “We have been moving in uncharted territory,” said County Commission Chairman Ronnie Hawkins. “We knew that the partnership was right for Cleveland County and that given the chance, Commissioner Harry’s idea could flourish. We have been on a road that has had some bumps along the way, but we feel confident that the new economic development composition will meet the needs of all county citizens, whether their support comes through public dollars or through private investment.” The Cleveland County Chamber unveiled a private-sector fundraising campaign in October of 2004 and succeeded in generating private-sector pledges of $225,000 a year to assist in funding a five-year economic development strategy known as “Cleveland 20/20: A Clear Focus on Economic Prosperity for Cleveland County.” The plan was developed in part from the 2002-2003 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), Focus: Cleveland, the 2003 Fall Planning Conference, and interviews conducted by Resource Development Group during the feasibility assessment phase of the fundraising campaign. Officials suspected that changes might need to be made to the way economic development was structured, but wanted to wait for more collaboration before any final decisions were made. “The scope of this undertaking has been much larger than many people realize,” said Chamber Board Chairman Mark Carter. “Each person involved has had the best interests of the Cleveland County community at heart. Of course, determining what is best for a community as diverse as ours is always a challenge. We are extremely pleased to be able to say that we are now all in one accord, ready to move forward with a new structure and to accept the new challenges we know are coming our way.” Meetings held in the early part of 2005 revealed that public sector officials desired a more gradual, less aggressive pace for economic development restructuring. A committee of 12 members was assembled with representation from Cleveland County, City of Kings Mountain, City of Shelby, Town of Boiling Springs, Cleveland County Sanitary District, Cleveland County Chamber, and Cleveland 20/20. This group participated in four work sessions during the months of May and June that resulted in their unanimous endorsement of a new structure for economic development which they say is more inclusive of public and private sector investors. The restructured group is divided into four sections. The largest group is the “Cleveland 20/20 Economic Development Partnership.” This group is comprised of anyone and everyone who contributes any amount to economic development. From the general taxpaying public to private investors, the Cleveland 20/20 Economic Development Partnership is open to all citizens and will meet annually. From this group, a “Cleveland 20/20 Advisory Council” will be formed. This group will meet quarterly and participate in the annual meeting of the larger partnership. Currently, 35 people are at the Cleveland 20/20 Advisory Council “benefactor” level, including all municipal partners. A “Cleveland 20/20 Advisory Council Executive Committee” will be formed from the Advisory Council level, and that group will consist of seven people (three public sector representatives and four at-large representatives.) Of the four at-large representatives, three must represent the private sector. Three members from this group of seven would also serve on the Board of Directors for the Cleveland County Chamber. The Cleveland 20/20 Advisory Council Executive Committee members will meet monthly, quarterly (with full Advisory Council), and annually (with full Economic Development Partnership). The Cleveland County Chamber Board of Directors will continue to serve as the governing body for economic development. The Chamber Board meets monthly and will also meet annually with the Cleveland 20/20 Economic Development Partnership. “We firmly believe we have found a wonderful balance with this proposed plan,” said Hawkins. County Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the proposed restructuring plan during their regularly scheduled meeting on June 21 at 6 p.m. “We believe citizens will recognize these efforts stem from a sincere desire to make this county more prosperous,” said Carter. “We have shared the vision of a great county leader and hopefully will one day also be remembered as courageous, committed, caring, and compassionate.” ###

S3 Technologies Announces Move to Cleveland County

Thu, 12 May 2005 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 12, 2005 S3 Technologies Announces New Facility in Grover, NC (Grover, NC) – A company that specializes in the production of carbon fiber components for the racing industry is officially announcing its move from Mooresville to Grover today during a press conference at the facility on May 12 at 11 a.m. S3 Technologies, owned by Jason Courtney and David Whittaker, is now located in the former Wirtz Manufacturing facility at 703 South Battleground Avenue in Grover. According to co-owner Jason Courtney, the business has experienced substantial growth since first opening its doors in Mooresville in February of 2004. “The facility in Mooresville was 4,000 square-feet. The new building gives us a total of 18,000 square feet. We chose to locate in Cleveland County because other communities just couldn’t match the value for our dollar.” With dozens of out-of-state clients and the desire to further expand the business, Courtney says they began working with John Barker, Sr. of Barker Realty, Inc. to locate a larger manufacturing facility. “We are pleased that a company like S3 Technologies could find the right community and the right building to accommodate their operations,” said Barker. “We are certain that with the support of the community they will be very successful.” Kings Mountain Mayor Rick Murphrey says the city is looking forward to adding S3 Technologies as a new utilities customer. "We are very excited about S3 Technologies coming to our area,” said Murphrey. “This will be a new client for the City of Kings Mountain's utility service and will provide additional jobs to our community. Being that S3 is a well-known supplier to the racing industry, this will also bring more attention to our area for related businesses." S3 Technologies is a manufacturer of carbon fiber components for the racing and sports-related industries. The products of S3 include light weight bodywork and structural components for the Grand-Am Daytona Prototypes, LeMans LMP, IRL cars, Formula Mazda as well as several GT cars. Courtney says the operation currently employs seven full-time staff members, but he hopes that within the next few years, that number will grow to nearly 20. “Our operation is so specific that we have to carefully train each new employee,” Courtney said. “The raw material is molded, processed, heated and pressurized, and then trimmed and assembled to such precise specifications. We are currently training new employees to better understand our process, and look forward to future expansion.” Cleveland County Commission Chairman Ronnie Hawkins believes it is businesses of this type that will propel Cleveland County to a prosperous economic future. “Like many communities, it would be easy for us to fall into the trap of thinking that bigger is automatically better,” said Hawkins. “But it is the smaller operations with advanced technologies that are a true catalyst for attracting industry-specific manufacturers to the area. We wholeheartedly welcome S3 Technologies to Cleveland County and wish them every success with their future plans.” Grover Mayor Bob Sides believes the area will continue to benefit from industry growth in the Kings Mountain-Grover corridor. “The announcement today is a wonderful thing,” said Sides. “We look forward to new businesses coming in and hope they will enjoy their new location in Cleveland County.” Scott Darnell, Senior VP of Economic Development for the Cleveland County Chamber, agrees that S3 Technologies is a terrific operation that will garner much positive attention throughout the Charlotte Region. “We are excited that through this company, Cleveland County has now branched into the racing industry, which enjoys such a popular reputation among area citizens,” said Darnell. “We will do whatever we can to assist this company as they expand their products and continue to grow in this community.” ###

Chamber Responds Favorably to Duke Power Announcement

Wed, 11 May 2005 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 11, 2005 Duke Power Announces Plans for Expansion of Local Power Plant Cliffside Facility in Cleveland & Rutherford Counties Could Receive Investment of $2 Billion (Cleveland County, NC) – The Cleveland County Chamber is responding favorably to an announcement made by Duke Power earlier today that could result in improvements to the Cliffside Steam Station totaling $2 billion and netting the county a sizeable increase in additional annual tax revenues. The preliminary announcement, made by Duke Power on May 11 as part of a “Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN),” is part of Duke Power’s overall strategy plan for the future, according to the company’s release. “Duke Power has filed preliminary information with the North Carolina Utilities Commission to modernize and expand its Cliffside Steam Station in Rutherford and Cleveland counties and Buck Steam Station in Rowan County,” the release states. “The company is also considering whether to pursue the option to build a new nuclear power plant and is seeking bids from the wholesale power market for up to 1,500 megawatts beginning in 2009.” Company officials say that demand for power is growing and the request for the CPCN is part of Duke Power’s quest to operate a “highly-efficient and diverse fleet of power plants.” The company’s release also provides additional information about the expansion plans. “A potential Cliffside Steam Station modernization and expansion includes an 800-megawatt, highly efficient, coal-fueled unit planned for as early as 2010; substantial economic benefits for Cleveland and Rutherford counties with a potential investment of approximately $2 billion (for 1,600 megawatts); and a second 800-megawatt unit possible based on customer growth and the schedule for constructing a new nuclear plant.” Local officials estimate that upon completion, the economic impact of such an expansion in Cleveland County alone could generate a monumental increase in additional tax revenue each year. Cleveland County Commission Chairman Ronnie Hawkins says this expansion is another example of the successful partnership between the Chamber and Economic Development. “We are so grateful that the Chamber and the County has established such a great working relationship with an excellent corporate citizen like Duke Power,” said Hawkins. “We are proud that the corporation would continue that relationship by expanding the local power station and we applaud Duke Power’s effort to keep construction and operating costs low and to minimize environmental impacts.” Chamber President Stuart Gilbert says the Chamber is very excited about working with Duke Power and the local community in order to make this project a reality. “Duke Power's initial interest in filing information showing a desire in making additional investments in Cleveland County is another testimony of the county's continuing support of corporate reinvestments,” said Gilbert. “On behalf of our Cleveland County 20/20 economic development partnership and our board of directors, we are very pleased of Duke Power's initial filings to create upwards to $2 billion dollars of investments in Cleveland and Rutherford Counties. These investments and the associated jobs will create major positive economic spin offs for construction materials and workers for our region, in addition to cleaner and more abundant electricity for our region and additional opportunities for more business developments in our region.” For more information or a copy of the Duke Power press release, please contact the Chamber at (704) 487-8521. ###

Cleveland County Leads Region in Industrial Absorption

Mon, 11 Apr 2005 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 11, 2005 KIRCO Annual Report Reveals Unmatched Industrial Success in Cleveland County (Cleveland County, NC) – If a “Most Improved Player” award could be given to a county in the Charlotte Region for industrial recruitment, then Cleveland County would almost certainly be this year’s recipient. According to a study of the industrial market in the Charlotte Region, Cleveland County had the highest rate of improvement in absorption of industrial inventory. In layman’s terms, that means that Cleveland filled up more than 45% of the available industrial space from 2003 to 2004. No other county in the region comes close to that kind of improvement. The report, completed by KIRCO of Charlotte, examines the vacancy and absorption rates and analyzes available industrial inventory from 2003 to 2004. Counties included in the report are: Burke, Caldwell, Cabarrus, Catawba, Cherokee, Chester, Chesterfield, Cleveland, Davidson, Gaston, Iredell, Lancaster, Lincoln, Rowan, Rutherford, Stanly, Union, and York. In 2003, the report states that Cleveland County had a vacancy rate of 17.95%. That percentage shrunk to 8.13% in 2004. Available industrial inventory in 2003 was over 2.8 million square feet. By 2004, the available inventory was down to less than 1.3 million square feet. In addition, the county had absorption of 95,300 square feet in 2003 but more than 1.45 million square feet was absorbed in 2004. As a whole, the vacancy rate of industrial space in the Charlotte Region increased slightly. In 2003, the region had a vacancy of 8.7% and in 2004 the rate increased to 10.13%. The region still absorbed more space, which indicates an improvement in attracting industrial clients to the area. In 2003, the absorption rate for the region stood at 8.36 million square feet while it increased to 9.08 million square feet in 2004. KIRCO is based in Troy, Michigan with a Southeastern Regional office in Charlotte. The company specializes in a variety of real estate services, and has planned and developed in excess of 11 million square feet of high-demand properties of enduring economic value for investors and corporate clients. KIRCO is a major developer of build-to-suit for sale or lease office, high tech and industrial buildings, retail centers, residential communities, and various institutional facilities. For more on the KIRCO report, contact Stuart Gilbert or Scott Darnell at the Cleveland County Chamber at (704) 487-8521. ###

Case Farms Announces Expansion into Cleveland County

Tue, 15 Feb 2005 05:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 15; 2005 7:00 p.m. Case Farms, Inc Announces State-Of-The-Art Feed Mill in Shelby, NC (Shelby, NC) – An integrated poultry processing company is expanding into Cleveland County and economic development officials are anticipating the creation of up to 25 jobs with an investment of $15 million. The company will begin operations in the spring of 2006. The Cleveland County Chamber’s Economic Development Division is announcing the expansion of Case Farms, Inc. to a 35 acre site located on Airport Road. The Morganton, NC based company is anticipating the hiring of 25 new positions in Cleveland County. Case Farms is a completely integrated poultry processing company with 3 processing plants, with one located in Morganton, NC, Goldsboro, NC, and Winesburg, Oh. The company employs 1800 people with expected sales in 2005 reaching $300 million. The feed mill located in Cleveland County will have an initial capacity of 6,000 tons per week with room for expansion reaching 12,000 tons per week. The mill will produce feed for 4.5 to 7 million birds in 7 North Carolina counties. This represents over 150 family-owned farms. Ken Wilson of Case Farms said, "We are grateful for the assistance we received from the Cleveland County Commission, City of Shelby, Cleveland County Sanitary District, and the Cleveland County Chamber’s Economic Development Division to make this a successful project for Case Farms and Cleveland County. Case Farms has enjoyed a very good business relationship in Cleveland County over the years with 34 growers in the county, with a capacity of 1.6 million birds. We will be looking to expand the number of growers in Cleveland County.” Mayor Ted Alexander of the City of Shelby said, "We are excited about the announcement by Case Farms especially in light of the level of their investment and the new jobs that would be created." Ronnie Hawkins, Chairman, Cleveland County Commission said, "Cleveland County has a long standing history of agriculture in our county. This project gives us an opportunity to continue to diversify and create economic sustainability throughout the entire county. We are appreciative for the investment in the feed mill and the future growth to the farming communities throughout the county." Mark Carter, Chairman of the Cleveland County Chamber of Commerce said, "We are very excited to see Case Farms making such a commitment to our corporate community. Agriculture plays a vital role in our local economy, and we look forward to seeing more growth throughout the county." "We are excited about the location of Case Farms in Cleveland County," said Scott Darnell, SR. VP of Economic Development. “The location of the feed mill in Cleveland County will be a great addition to our tax base while providing a greater opportunity for our local farmers to diversify and expand into the poultry business. As the number of houses expands, more services in the farming communities will be used and our local businesses will be the beneficiary." Greg Traywick, Cleveland County Extension Director said, "NC Cooperative Extension is excited about this expansion and the many opportunities it will provide the local community. Opportunities for families to generate additional income from growing birds, opportunities to preserve family farms and to keep production agriculture a viable part of Cleveland County's landscape, our lifestyle, and our economy." ###

Curtiss-Wright Announces Expansion in Cleveland County

Tue, 16 Nov 2004 05:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 16, 2004 Curtiss-Wright Announces Expansion In Cleveland County Company To Add 35 Jobs To Shelby Plant (Shelby, NC) -- A local company is announcing the addition of 35 new jobs over the next three years, and plans to invest an additional $740,000 into their Cleveland County facility. Curtiss-Wright Flight Systems, located at 201 Old Boiling Springs Road in Shelby, will add 35 full-time positions and necessary equipment in order to improve production. The expansion project is contingent upon receipt of county and city incentives. Known as Project Actuate, the expansion will increase company payroll by $1.5 million with an average wage of $43,000 each year. The company’s current payroll is over $11 million. The building and equipment investment totals $740,498. According to the application for county incentives, the expansion project is expected to increase the tax base by more than $40,750 over a five-year period. Curtiss-Wright Corporation has a long history with its roots dating back to the Wright brothers' first flight in 1903. The Shelby facility consists of the Motion Control business segment, which designs, develops and manufactures precision engineered flight control and actuation systems for military and commercial aircraft. The products are primarily hydro-mechanical and electro-mechanical actuation systems for operating trailing or leading edge wing flaps, cargo doors, weapons bay doors and other devices. ###

Southeastern Container Announces New Plant In Kings Mountain

Thu, 21 Oct 2004 04:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 21, 2004; 6:30 p.m. Southeastern Container, Inc. Announces Plans for New Plant in Kings Mountain (Kings Mountain, NC) – A plastics manufacturer is expanding into Cleveland County and economic development officials are anticipating the creation of up to 100 jobs with an investment of $26 million. The company will begin operations at the new facility in January of 2005. The Cleveland County Chamber’s Economic Development department is announcing the expansion of Southeastern Container, Incorporated into an existing 300,000 square-foot facility located in the Kings Mountain Corporate Center (owned by Johnson Development). The Enka, North Carolina-based company expects to hire approximately 80 employees and is already anticipating the need for future expansion. According to Southeastern Container General Manager Bruce Sampson, the Kings Mountain facility will produce blow-molded plastic bottles used by Coca-Cola Bottling Companies. “We are excited about this new venture on several fronts,” said Sampson. “First of all, the expansion into Kings Mountain brings us closer to our customer, which is an obvious benefit. Secondly, the facility is great and allows us the opportunity for expansion in the future. Finally, the community has been terrific to work with and the utility rates are very attractive for our business.” Southeastern Container is a growing company with nine facilities in the eastern half of the United States. In North Carolina, the Enka plant will continue as primarily an injection-molding facility, and Kings Mountain will be a blow-molding facility. Cleveland County Manager Lane Alexander believes that although competition from other states for this project was tough, Cleveland County prevailed. “We are delighted that Southeastern Container has chosen Cleveland County,” said Alexander. “The 80 to 100 positions will help our unemployed and underemployed citizens and the $26 million investment will add to our tax base. We will work to maintain a strong relationship with this company and will assist them in any way we can as they grow in the future.” Known as “Project Mia,” economic development officials have been working with the company for approximately four months. According to Scott Darnell, Senior Vice President of Economic Development, in the next five years, the company could receive potential incentives in the amount of $785,000 from Cleveland County and the City of Kings Mountain combined. “We are excited about the location of Southeastern Container in Cleveland County,” said Darnell. “The plastics industry has been targeted within our economic development plan. Michael Catanese of Whiteside Industrial, Garrett Scott of Johnson Development, Cleveland County, City of Kings Mountain, NC Department of Commerce, and Duke Power all worked as a team to make this a successful project for Cleveland County.” Kings Mountain Corporate Center is a business park established by Johnson Development Associates which provides companies with the opportunity to occupy spec buildings under a long-term lease. “We are thrilled with Southeastern Container’s investment in Cleveland County and Johnson Development,” said Garrett Scott. “And it validates our initial decision to develop this type of industrial park in Cleveland County.” Kings Mountain Mayor Rick Murphrey says the city has worked hard to ensure the proper infrastructure is in place in order to attract quality companies to the area. “We welcome Southeastern Container to Kings Mountain and we will continue our efforts to offer low tax and utility rates to attract companies and their new jobs to our community,” said Murphrey. “This is the best way to remain competitive in a global economy and secure good jobs for our citizens.” Residents who are interested in employment with Southeastern Container can contact the local Employment Security Commission office for more information about specific positions available. For more information, call the Cleveland County Chamber at (704) 487-8521. ###

County’s Registered Voters Have Opportunity To Be Economic Developers

Wed, 20 Oct 2004 04:00:00 GMT

County’s Registered Voters Have Opportunity To Be Economic Developers For A Day (Cleveland County, NC) – Cleveland County’s approximately 53,000 registered voters will have an opportunity at the polls November 2 to play a positive, personal role in an effort to make our county more competitive in the rough-and-tumble economic development arena. No heavy lifting is required. All voters have to do Nov. 2 is vote “Yes” on Amendment One. Passage of Amendment One would add a major new tool in Cleveland County’s already broad and intensive efforts to accelerate our economic recovery. That ought to be an encouraging prospect in a county which has experienced double-digit unemployment and the loss of more than 3,500 jobs since 2001. A positive statewide Amendment One vote would authorize amending the North Carolina Constitution to permit counties and municipalities to issue self-financing bonds to fund public improvements and spur private investment in special development districts. For example, a city might designate a dilapidated block as a special development district. The block’s current tax value might be $100,000. Once the improvements were made, the value might have risen to $500.000, a net increase of $400,000. Taxes paid on the $400,000 net increase would be used to repay the bonds. Taxes paid on the original $100,000 would still go to the city’s general fund. Once the bonds were retired, taxes paid on the full $500,000 tax value of the redeveloped block would go to the city coffers. Such bonds have been used quite successfully for over 40 years in 48 other states, including neighboring South Carolina, resulting in billions of dollars worth of public improvements and private investment. The hundreds of self-financing bond projects in those 48 other states have neither required property tax increases nor required cities or counties to pledge their taxing authority. Self-financing bonds are not sold just like general obligation bonds. With general obligation bonds, a county or municipality pledges to the bond holders that it will use the community’s full faith and credit to repay the bonds. With self-financing bonds, cities and counties do not pledge to the bondholders their full faith and credit. The difference is important because the North Carolina constitution requires a referendum on bonds only when the community is pledging its full faith and credit to the bondholders. Also, general obligation bonds allow the bondholders to force the community to raise taxes to pay off the bonds. Self-financing bonds prohibit bondholders from forcing the community to raise taxes to pay off the bonds. Furthermore, a survey of self-financing bond issuances over the past 50 years reveals a successful retirement rate of more than 98 percent. Property tax dollars were not used to retire the less than two percent of the problem issuances. Sales taxes were used in those two percent of cases. Amendment One prohibits the use of sales taxes for such purposes. Other taxpayer-protection elements of the self-financing bond procedures embodied in Amendment One are equally stringent. North Carolina cities and counties could, after discussion with landowners, specify certain areas to be development districts. Those districts, however, would not become official until development plans were thoroughly reviewed and approved by the North Carolina Local Government Commission. The Local Government Commission is an independent, non-partisan body. A key assurance against flawed projects slipping through is that in over 50 years, no local bond approved by the Local Government Commission has defaulted. ###

Kings Mountain International To Create Up To 100 Jobs

Tue, 29 Jun 2004 04:00:00 GMT

FOR RELEASE ON JUNE 29, 2004 ; 6:30 P.M. New Company Announces Plans for Cleveland County Facility Kings Mountain International To Create Up To 100 Jobs (Kings Mountain, NC) – The Economic Development department of the Cleveland County Chamber is pleased to announce the addition of a new company to Cleveland County. Kings Mountain International, a metal processing manufacturer, has announced plans to occupy the former Encompass/ABB Combustion building in Kings Mountain. The company expects a capital investment of $5 million and will generate approximately 100 new positions within the next few years. “We are excited to see Kings Mountain International become a part of the Cleveland County industrial community,” said Scott Darnell, Senior VP of Economic Development for the Chamber. “Their commitment to our county validates our strong workforce and the pro-business attitude of our community. We look forward to a long and prosperous relationship with this company.” Kings Mountain International will begin operations at the Kings Mountain facility in October. Applicants interested in employment at the facility should contact the Employment Security Commission for information on specific positions. The company provides metal processing services for a variety of industrial applications. Per the company’s request, no further information is available at this time. More information on the facility will be available in the coming months. ###

Groundbreaking Ceremony Held For Kings Mountain Hospital Expansion

Fri, 19 Mar 2004 04:00:00 GMT

Groundbreaking Ceremony Held For Kings Mountain Hospital Expansion March 19, 2004 KINGS MOUNTAIN, N.C. -- Kings Mountain Hospital officially broke ground on an $8 million construction project early Wednesday morning, March 17. The expansion will include approximately 26,876 square feet of new hospital space while 6,284 square feet will be renovated. Upon completion, the new hospital will cover a total of 116, 263 square feet, a 30 percent increase from its current size. Hospital CEO and President John Young described the event as an “exciting moment” and paid homage to past administrator Grady Howard and John Henry Moss, former Kings Mountain Mayor. “We’re standing on the shoulders of some tall people who have come before us,” Young stated. J.C. Bridges, a Kings Mountain Hospital board member for 24 years, remembered receiving emergency medical care at the Shelby facility after breaking his arm as a child. “Ever since that time I’ve been interested in a hospital for Kings Mountain,” he said. Included in the expansion is a new front for the hospital with a remodeled entry lobby. A two-story rotunda will face King Street, with the second floor housing out patient surgery waiting. New pre and post-operative rooms and surgery suites will be added as well. Physical therapy will occupy a section to the left of the rotunda which is currently a drive through. Administrative offices which are now located behind the drive through will be relocated, and a cafeteria may occupy the first floor of the rotunda if funds allow. The emergency department will also undergo an expansion with plans for the ambulance delivery area to be separate from the walk-in entrance. While the impending construction is impressive, Young emphasized that the focus remain on the people. “Buildings are not what it’s about, it’s about the people,” he stated. The expansion is funded through $7.6 million in hospital funds and $450,000 in grants, including one from the Duke Endowment. Kings Mountain Hospital and Cleveland Regional Medical Center merged 18 months ago, forming one healthcare system which serves the entire county in addition to western Gaston County and a portion of upstate South Carolina. ###

B & W Fiber Glass To Invest $3 Million and Add 15 Jobs

Thu, 26 Feb 2004 05:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: February 26, 2004 Company Announces New Facility in Cleveland County (Cleveland County, NC) – The Economic Development department of the Cleveland County Chamber is pleased to announce the addition of a new company to Cleveland County. B & W Fiber Glass, a 14-year-old company based in Forest City, NC will build a 42,000 square foot manufacturing complex on Highway 74 west of Shelby. Over the next three years, the company is expected to hire 30 to 40 employees. B & W Fiber Glass is owned by Bill and Pam Beason of Lake Lure, North Carolina. An investment of $3 million is anticipated. The facility in Cleveland County will manufacture specialized products for industrial applications utilizing proprietary technology. Plant construction is currently underway with a June 1 completion date and operations will begin with 15 to 20 employees. “The Cleveland County Chamber and county commissioners were very helpful and supportive of our objectives,” said Bill Beason, President and CEO of B & W Fiber Glass. “Their initiative and assistance made the selection of Cleveland County an easy decision.” County commission chairwoman Mary Accor believes the new company will find much success in Cleveland County. “Some people might say that 15 jobs aren’t going to have much of an impact on our local economy,” said Accor. “But 15 jobs will help 15 families who are struggling to make a life for themselves in Cleveland County. We are so pleased that B & W Fiber Glass is confident enough in our county to make such a significant investment here.” Chamber President Stuart Gilbert said that once again, a team effort was necessary to attract the company to Cleveland County. “The Cleveland County Commissioners are to be commended for rezoning the property to allow for this industry,” said Gilbert. “Although Scott Darnell (Sr. VP of Economic Development) has only been on board for six months, we appreciate all of the work he has been doing to bear the fruit of new jobs in Cleveland County.” According to Bill Beason, the company has grown from extremely humble beginnings. B & W Fiber Glass began in 1990 as an international consulting company. Six years later, with an entrepreneurial spirit and a belief that more could be done with fiber glass, Beason rented approximately 150 square feet in a Gastonia warehouse with just an overhead light bulb and says he “began playing with some material and a welder.” This was the beginning of the manufacturing component of the company. From his experimentation, several products were created. The proprietary technology was developed in 1996 and the company has introduced several new products as a result. The company currently has a 27,000 square foot manufacturing facility and warehouse located at 111 Fairhope Street in Forest City. A majority of the company’s operations will move to Cleveland County upon completion of the new building in June. While the nature of the business is extremely competitive, officials have revealed that the company is a producer of texturized/bulky fiber glass (E glass) for the pultrusion industry and other texturized products for high-temperature applications. Their products are sold to domestic and international clients, primarily outside the state of North Carolina. Currently, there are other processes under development that will be produced in the new facility. The new manufacturing complex is located at 4222 West Dixon Boulevard near Shelby. The Chamber would like to thank the NC Department of Transportation and developer Bill Chambless for their assistance with this project. ###

Mayflower Vehicle Systems Announces Expansion

Thu, 03 Jul 2003 04:00:00 GMT

Mayflower Vehicle Systems Announces Expansion Company To Invest Nearly $900,000 and Create 15 New Jobs (Kings Mountain, NC) -- The Cleveland County Chamber, the Cleveland County Economic Development Council, and Mayflower Vehicle Systems is pleased to announce a company expansion that would provide an anticipated total new investment of $882,000 over the next three years. According to Dale McKillop, plant manager at Mayflower Vehicle Systems, the new development will also bring the creation of at least 15 full-time permanent positions at the Kings Mountain plant. "We are thrilled to be able to contribute something positive to the community," said McKillop. "Mayflower is committed to Cleveland County and we anticipate continued success with the coming expansion." “Mayflower is an excellent corporate citizen," said Rick Murphrey, Mayor of Kings Mountain. "We congratulate them on the expansion and thank them for their business here at the city. We also wish them much more success in the future." The company hopes to be able to take advantage of industrial incentive grants provided by the Cleveland County Commissioners to existing businesses and industries for expansion projects. According to Tim Waters, Vice President of Existing Industry for the Chamber, the company qualifies for approximately $10,000 in county grant money over the next five years. "Property tax revenues received from this project will amount to more than $20,000 over five tax years," said Waters. "Incentives offered under the Cleveland County Industrial Grant Program were created to encourage area industries to invest in the local economy. Here at the Chamber, we believe it is crucial to reward area companies who choose to support Cleveland County. We highly recommend that companies who are considering expansion or relocation contact us. We are here to help them." The Economic Development Council of the Cleveland County Chamber recently endorsed the existing industry incentive grant application submitted by Mayflower Vehicle Systems for their planned expansion. Dr. Gene Washburn, chairman of the Economic Development Council, said the total value to the community will far outweigh the grant monies provided to the company by the county. "The new jobs alone will benefit the community with nearly a half-million dollars in additional annual payroll," Washburn said. "Those are dollars that will positively affect hundreds of businesses throughout the county and will ultimately come back to the county through sales tax revenue." County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on July 15 at 6 p.m. to solicit comments regarding the industrial incentive grants being proposed for this economic development project. The Cleveland County Chamber encourages all local business owners and area citizens to voice support for the disbursement of the incentive grants for this project. Mayflower Vehicle Systems is located at 629 South Battleground Avenue in Kings Mountain. MVS USA is a full-service designer and manufacturer specializing in low/medium volume vehicles, steel and aluminum stampings and assemblies, and truck cabs. Operating from five locations across America (including Kings Mountain) MVS USA is one of the most comprehensive suppliers of body stampings and assemblies in the USA. ###