Alive After Five Summer Concert Series (Uptown Lexington)

Crowd-pleasing musical acts are featured at the Alive After Five Concert Series. These concerts are hosted by the Lexington Area Chamber of Commerce and take place at Breeden Insurance Amphitheater five times throughout the summer. Food and refreshments are available.
www.lexingtonchamber.net

1870 Train Depot (Thomasville)

The Thomasville Visitors Center is located in one of the state’s oldest standing railroad depots, built in 1870. The restored building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and includes the original passenger waiting benches and other historic features. www.tvillenc.com

BBQ Capital Cook-Off (Lexington)

Each year, more than 50 teams compete for awards at the BBQ Capital Cook-Off. The whole family will enjoy sampling tasty pork, chicken, ribs and brisket at this late April event.
www.bbqcapitalcookoff.com

Boone’s Cave Park (Lexington/Churchland)

This newly remodeled 110-acre park includes a picnic area, hiking trails, a 1700s-style cabin and a small cave that was apparently Daniel Boone’s hideout when his family lived nearby. The newest parts of the park are a canoe and kayak trail that goes to the Yadkin River and several campsites. Also, more than 30 native wildflowers can be seen in the park.
www.visitlexingtonnc.com/listings/boones-cave-park

The Barbecue Festival (Lexington)

During the last 35 years, the Barbecue Festival has become much more than just the festival itself. October is now “Barbecue Month” and includes cycling, golf, fishing and running events. The festival attracts more than 200,000 spectators to a 10-block area of Uptown Lexington, with more than 400 exhibitors, seven stages of entertainment, rides and games for kids and an antique car show. www.barbecuefestival.com

The Big Chair (Thomasville)

This 30-foot landmark in downtown Thomasville pays homage to the area’s furniture industry heritage, and is
considered the “World’s Largest Chair.” www.visitnc.com/listing/world-s-largest-chair

Bull City Ciderworks (Lexington)

Enjoy a variety of cider and other beverages at Bull City Ciderworks, where live music, games and more create a lively atmosphere. The facility also hosts private events. www.bullcityciderworks.com

Cedar Lodge Market (Thomasville)

Family owned since 1963, Cedar Lodge Market offers fresh-cut quality meats, locally grown produce and more. www.cedarlodgeiga.com

The Candy Factory (Lexington)

Named the No. 1 candy store in the state by Food Network Magazine, the Candy Factory has been satisfying sweet-tooth cravings for nearly 40 years. The family owned store offers old-time candies, chocolate, peppermint puffs, store-made fudge and much more. www.lexingtoncandyfactory.com

Christmas Trees of Davidson County (Thomasville)

Explore a winter wonderland at Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center every year. The month-long display inside the hospital’s lobby kicks off with a lighting ceremony. www.novanthealth.org

Conrad & Hinkle Food Market (Lexington)

Conrad & Hinkle Food Market has been a local favorite for 100 years, offering locally grown produce, homemade jams and relishes, hand-cut meats and an assortment of other items.
www.conrad-hinkle.com

The Davidson County Historical Museum (Lexington)

Discover the area’s history at this local museum, located in a Greek Revival-style courthouse built in 1858 that is on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum has a permanent collection that highlights the natural history and culture of Davidson County, as well as changing exhibits. Admission is free.
www.davidsoncountyhistoricalmuseum.com

Daniel Boone Heritage Canoe Trail (Lexington)

This 22-mile trail along the Yadkin River includes 10 historical markers relating to Daniel Boone and his family. www.visitnc.com/listing/daniel-boone-heritage-canoe-trail

Denton Street Festival (Denton)

Every September, the streets of Denton are lined with musical performances, pony rides, inflatables, arts and crafts and food and refreshments for this one-day event. www.townofdenton.com/denton-street-festival

Farmers Market (Thomasville and Lexington)

Find locally grown fruits and veggies, fresh eggs, flowers and more are available at local farmers markets. Visit the Lexington Farmers Market on Saturdays in May through October and stop by the Thomasville Farmers Market on Tuesdays (mid-June through mid-August) and Saturdays (May through mid-October). www.thomasvillefarmersmarket.com and www.lexingtonfarmersmarketnc.com

High Rock Outfitters (Lexington)

High Rock Outfitters is a gathering spot where friends can sip on craft beer, hard cider or coffee, all while listening to live performances. www.highrockoutfitters.com

Everybody’s Day (Thomasville)

The Everybody’s Day festival has taken place for more than 100 years and is the oldest festival in North Carolina. Admission is free at this annual event, where residents and visitors from around the Southeast gather to enjoy music, rides, arts and crafts, tasty food and other festivities. Everybody’s Day takes place on the last Saturday of September. www.everybodysday.com

High Rock Lake Marina and Campground

High Rock Lake includes 365 miles of beautiful shoreline, where you can participate in swimming, fishing, camping, boating and other outdoor adventures. Cabins, pontoon boats and more are available for rental.
www.highrocklakecampground.com

HiToms Baseball (Thomasville)

The High Point-Thomasville HiToms play at Finch Field, where they face off against rivals from the Coastal Plain League, one of the top summer collegiate baseball leagues in the country. The team plays from late May through early August. www.hitoms.com

Memorial Day Parade & Celebration (Thomasville)

Beginning with a wreath-laying ceremony along the Vietnam Veteran Memorial Wall, followed by a parade, guests can honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. After, attendees can enjoy food, refreshments and entertainment.

Hill’s Farm and Garden (Thomasville)

Family owned and operated for more than 30 years, Hill’s Farm and Garden offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, plants, seed, baked goods and eggs. There is also a play area for smaller children and a pet room for kids of all ages to enjoy. www.ncagr.gov/ncproducts/showsite.asp?id=100498

Lanier’s Ace Hardware (Lexington)

A Lexington landmark since 1940, Lanier’s Ace Hardware carries more than 100,000 hardware items, plus housewares, toys, sporting goods and much more. www.lanierhardware.com

Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookies (Clemmons)

Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookies, which are rolled out by hand, are available both in store and online. The cookies are made from a family recipe and come in a wide variety of flavors, including sugar, ginger, lemon, chocolate, butterscotch and black walnut. www.hanescookies.com

Nightmare on Main Street/Ghost Walk (Thomasville)

This family-friendly event includes ghost tales while strolling the streets of Thomasville. Listen to scary stories and tour the city, visiting notable stops such as city hall and the historic cemetery.
www.thomasville-nc.gov/Home/Components/Calendar

Richard Childress Racing Museum (Welcome)

The museum is a main feature on the 52-acre Richard Childress Racing campus and tells the story of how the RCR team became one of NASCAR’s pre-eminent organizations. The 47,000-square-foot museum is in the shop that was home to NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt and includes the biggest collection of No. 3 Goodwrench Chevrolets. www.rcrracing.com/rcr-museum

Multicultural Festival (Lexington)

Each May, the Multicultural Festival hosted by Lexington Parks and Recreation includes two entertainment stages, a variety of cultural presentations, vendors, interactive art, a parade of flags from around the world and much more. www.lexingtonchamber.net

North Carolina Vietnam Veterans Memorial (Thomasville)

The memorial, which is made of red brick from North Carolina, includes the names of more than 1,600 North Carolinians killed or missing during the Vietnam War. The evergreen trees around the monument were planted as an everlasting memorial. The park is off Interstate 85, just two miles south of Thomasville. www.legion.org/memorials/238022/north-carolina-vietnam-veterans-memorial-lexington

Sophie’s Cork and Ale (Lexington)

The restaurant became part of the Uptown Lexington community in 2016 and focuses on fine wine and craft beers sophiescorkandale.com

Southeast Old Threshers’ Reunion (Denton)

Southeast Old Threshers’ Reunion is the largest antique tractor and engine show in the southeastern U.S., featuring five days of food, music, demonstrations and antique tractors; Doyle Lawson and the Quicksilver Bluegrass Festival; and the Country Christmas Train. www.dentonfarmpark.com

Spring Daze (Thomasville)

Sponsored by the Thomasville Beautification Committee, Spring Daze & Antiques on Main features beautiful plants, crafts, garden décor, antiques, food and music. www.thomasville-nc.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/158/18

Thomasville Emporium Antique Mall and P&G Antiques (Thomasville)

Hidden treasures are waiting to be discovered at Thomasville Emporium Antique Mall and P&G Antiques. At Thomasville Emporium, guests can browse booths from Chartreuse Barn, Fancy Finds, Odditorium, Salem Vintage and Refined & Co. P&G offers fruit jars, furniture, clocks and more.

Sunset Sounds (Thomasville)

Concerts are every third Thursday from June until September. This free, family friendly event offers a wide range of genres, from jazz to rock.

Uptown Lexington

Uptown Lexington includes almsot 200 retail, service and professional businesses, drawing tourists to the area year-round. Uptown is often the backdrop for annual events, concerts and festivals. www.uptownlexingtonnc.com

Uwharrie National Forest

There are about 51,000 acres to explore at Uwharrie National Forest, which includes land in Montgomery, Randolph and Davidson counties. Enjoy hiking, water activities, camping, horseback riding and off-road trails. www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48934

Welcome Easter Parade (Welcome)

The Welcome community celebrates the holiday, a tradition that has taken place for more than 20 years with floats, bands and more.

A Global Focus

There are many reasons why businesses locate in Davidson County, and the leaders of the local chambers of commerce are making them known throughout the region and world.

The Thomasville Area Chamber of Commerce’s new brand is Thomasville GO: The Seat of Global Opportunity, which showcases the area’s strategic location and history of quality. The goal is to attract innovative industries and creative entrepreneurs.

“Our businesses and citizens have embraced our new brand,” said Thomasville Area Chamber President Keith Tobin. “With the creation of an online landing portal, new websites and continued emphasis on the brand by all stakeholders – including local government, Chamber of Commerce, tourism, parks and recreation department and many more – we are reaching our community and beyond.”

One of the top reasons to establish a business in the Thomasville area is the location. The Thomasville area is on Interstate 85, 30 minutes from Piedmont Triad International Airport as well as one hour from Charlotte International Airport. It also is halfway between Atlanta and Washington, D.C.

Several local companies are globally focused, including:

• Old Dominion, a national freight leader and global transportation company that has its headquarters in Thomasville.
• Mohawk Industries, which has a laminate manufacturing plant in Thomasville.
• Ennis Flint, a worldwide leader in the traffic safety and pavement marking industry, is one of the largest privately owned businesses in the U.S. and has its headquarters in Thomasville.
• Woodbridge Furniture, a high-end furniture manufacturer, is based in High Point.
• Blythe Leonard, LLC, which makes leather handbags in Thomasville.
• ASCO Power Technologies, which has provided power reliability solutions for more than 125 years, has a plant in Welcome.

The Thomasville Chamber is a key part of the Envision 2020 Group, which was established in 2010 to build more opportunity for growth.

“The Envision Group laid out three goals and 32 strategies that we would focus on. The goals are in the areas of appearance and image, marketing and promotion, business development and entrepreneurialism,” Tobin said. “Over half of the strategies have been completed – most recently the re-branding of our community.”

The Thomasville Area Chamber helps its members and the community by acting as an advocate for the business community, offering educational opportunities, networking, economic development opportunities and “buy local” initiatives.

The Lexington Area Chamber, which represents the town that is the county seat of Davidson County, supports its member businesses in many of the same ways, plus annual candidate forums, the “State of the Community” event and Legislative Breakfast.

“Being a Chamber member gives a business status and creditability, said Kent Beck, president and CEO of the Lexington Area Chamber. “It gives them a chance to network with other members and helps with name recognition in the community with event participation.”

Also, with support from the Davidson County Commissioners, the chambers promote “buy local.”

“This is done by print, television, radio and billboard media,” Beck said. “This helps to keep dollars in Davidson County, which supports local businesses, families, employees and profits that are contributed to local taxes and needs of charities.“

The Lexington Chamber also organizes the Alive after Five concert series, which moved to a new location in 2018 – the Breeden Insurance Amphitheater.

“This event is now four or five times larger with the move to the Amphitheater,” Beck said. “The area accommodates a much larger crowd and is more comfortable for the bands and audience. This brings more local and out-of-town visitors to the Lexington Area. They buy local products while attending this event and will probably return again to shop at local businesses.

Unless otherwise noted, all area codes are 336.

Emergency / Medical

In case of an emergency, dial 911.

Davidson County Emergency Services
Governmental Center: 242-2000
913 Greensboro St., Lexington, NC 27292
www.co.davidson.nc.us/EMS

Hospitals

Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center
336-472-2000
207 Old Lexington Road,
Thomasville, NC 27360

Wake Forest Baptist Health Lexington Medical Center
336-248-5161
250 Hospital Drive, Lexington, NC 27292

High Point Regional Health
336-878-6000
601 N. Elm St., High Point, NC 27262
www.highpointregional.com

Fire Departments

Lexington Fire Department
336-248-3935

Thomasville Fire Department Headquarters
336-475-4293

Law Enforcement

Lexington Police Department
336-243-3302
106 N. Main St., Lexington, NC 27292
www.lexingtonnc.net

Thomasville Police Department
336-475-4260
7 W. Guilford St., Thomasville, NC 27360
www.thomasville-nc.gov

Davidson County Sheriff’s Office
336-242-2100
2511 E. U.S. Hwy. 64, Lexington, NC 27292
www.co.davidson.nc.us/sheriff

Davidson County Social Services
336-242-2500
www.co.davidson.nc.us/DSS

Government

Federal

U.S. Senators
Richard Burr (R)
(202) 224-3154
217 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
www.burr.senate.gov

Thom Tillis (R)
(202) 224-6342
185 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
www.tillis.senate.gov

U.S. Representatives
Ted Budd
(202) 225-4531
118 Cannon House Office Building, Washington DC 20515
budd.house.gov

State

N.C. Senator

Eddie Gallimore (R), District 29
(919) 733-5743
16 W. Jones St., Room 2111, Raleigh, NC 27601

N.C. Representatives

Larry Potts (R), District 81
(919) 715-0873
300 N. Salisbury St., Room 306B1,
Raleigh, NC 27603

Steve Jarvis (R), District 80
(919) 715-0873
16 W. Jones St., Room 306C,
Raleigh, NC 27603

Local Elected Officials

Mayor Lexington
Newell Clark
336-248-3910
200 S. State St., Lexington, NC 27292
mayorclark@lexingtonnc.gov

Thomasville

Raleigh York, Jr.
336-475-4223
10 Salem St., Thomasville, NC 27360
raleigh.york@thomasville-nc.gov

Town of Denton
Larry Ward
336-859-2767
201 W. Salisbury St., Denton, NC 27239

Town of Wallburg
Allen Todd
336-813-3905
P.O. Box 607, Wallburg, NC 27373

Town of Midway
John Byrum
336-764-5455
426 Gumtree Road, Winston-Salem, NC 27107
johnbyrum@midway-nc.gov

City Council

Lexington
Donald Holt, Ward 1
336-425-3007
1064 Quail Road, Lexington, NC 27292
CouncilorHolt@LexingtonNC.gov

Tobin Shepherd, Ward 2
336-303-0822
704 Brookgreen Drive, Lexington, NC 27292
CouncilorShepherd@LexingtonNC.gov

D. Linwood Bunce II, Ward 3
336-249-9128
120 Delta St., Lexington, NC 27295
CouncilorBunce@LexingtonNC.gov

L. Wayne Alley, Mayor Pro-Tem, Ward 4
336-249-2988
20 Williams Circle, Lexington, NC 27292
CouncilorAlley@LexingtonNC.gov

Tonya Lanier, Ward 5
336-243-1361
70 Burgess St., Lexington, NC 27292
CouncilorLanier@LexingtonNC.gov

Whitney Brooks, Ward 6
336-338-9722
408 County Club Dr., Lexington, NC 27292
CouncilorBrooks@LexingtonNC.gov

Frank Callicutt, At-Large
336-249-7948
903 Kildee Drive, Lexington, NC 27292
CouncilorCallicutt@LexingtonNC.gov

James Myers, At-Large
336-249-0052
102 Chickadee Drive, Lexington, NC 27292
CouncilorMyers@LexingtonNC.gov

Thomasville City Council
Ronald Bratton
336-475-3604
10 Salem St., Thomasville, NC 27360
ronald.bratton@thomsaville-nc.gov

Neal Grimes
336-475-3755
10 Salem St., Thomasville, NC 27360
neal.grimes@thomsaville-nc.gov

Joe Leonard
336-239-2964
10 Salem St., Thomasville, NC 27360
joe.leonard@thomasville-nc.gov

Jane Murphy
336-250-0240
10 Salem St., Thomasville, NC 27360
jane.murphy@thomasville-nc.gov

Wendy Sellars
336-880-7779
10 Salem St., Thomasville, NC 27360
wendy.sellars@thomasville-nc.gov

Pat Harris Shelton
336-475-2562
10 Salem St., Thomasville, NC 27360
pat.shelton@thomasville-nc.gov

Scott Styers
336-475-3238
10 Salem St., Thomasville, NC 27360
scott.styers@thomasville-nc.gov

Davidson County
Commissioners and Managers
Zeb Hanner, County Manager
Casey Smith, Asst. County Manager
Don Truell, Chairman
Steve Shell, Vice Chairman
Karen Watford, Commissioner
Zak Crotts, Commissioner
Fred McClure, Commissioner
Chris Elliot, Commissioner
Todd Yates, Commissioner

913 Greensboro St., Suite 401,
Lexington, NC 27292
336-224-2200
www.co.davidson.nc.us/commissioners

Courthouse:
336-242-2200
110 W. Center St., Lexington, NC 27292

Libraries

Davidson County Public Library
www.co.davison.nc.us/library

Branches
Lexington
336-242-2040
602 S. Main St., Lexington, NC 27292

Thomasville
336-474-2690
14 Randolph St., Thomasville, NC 27360

Denton
336-859-2215
310 W. Salisbury St., Denton, NC 27239

North Davidson
336-242-2050
559 Critcher Drive, Welcome, NC 27374

West Davidson
336-853-4800
246 Tyro School Road, Lexington, NC 27295

Registrations

Automobile

North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles
www.ncdot.gov/dmv

Drivers License Offices
2314 S. Main St.,
Lexington, NC 27292
336-248-5179

1033 Randolph St. #16,
Thomasville, NC 27360
336-472-7334

License Plates and Registration Offices
27 Plaza Pkwy., Lexington, NC 27292
336-248-2720

1033 Randolph St., #13,
Thomasville, NC 27360
336-476-5070

Education

Primary Schools K-12

Davidson County Schools
336-249-8182
250 County School Road, Lexington, NC 27293
www.davidson.k12.nc.us

Lexington City Schools
336-242-1527
1010 Fair St., Lexington, NC 27292
www.lexcs.org

Thomasville City Schools
336-474-4200
400 Turner St., Thomasville, NC 27360
www.tcs.k12.nc.us

Private Schools

Sheets Memorial Christian School
336-249-4224
307 Holt St., Lexington, NC 27292
www.sheetsmemorial.org

Charter School

Davidson Charter Academy
336-803-7809
500 Biesecker Rd., Lexington, NC 27295
davidson.teamcfa.school

Higher Education

Davidson County Community College
336-249-8186
297 DCCC Road, Thomasville, NC 27360
www.davidsonccc.edu

Pets

Davidson County Animal Shelter
336-357-0805
490 Glendale Road, Lexington, NC 27292
www.co.davidson.nc.us

Humane Society of Davidson County
336-248-2706
P.O. Box 1791, Lexington, NC 27293
www.davidsonhumane.org

Utilities

Cable/Telephone/Internet Providers

Piedmont Communications Services, Inc./Piedmont Telephone
336-787-5433
191 Reeds Baptist Church Road, Lexington, NC 27295
www.ptmc.net

North State Communications
336-472-6088
1122 Randolph St., Thomasville, NC 27360
www.northstate.net

Charter Spectrum
(855) 243-8892
www.spectrum.com

Windstream Communications
336-249-5908
238 Lowes Blvd., Lexington, NC 27292
www.windstream.com

Gas & Electric

Duke Energy Carolinas
(800) 777-9898
www.duke-energy.com

EnergyUnited
(800) 522-3793
www.energyunited.com

Lexington Utilities
336-243-2489
www.LexingtonNC.net

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

Waste Management/Recycling

Best Disposal/Todco
336-249-6630
1123 Roy Lopp Road, Lexington, NC
www.bestdisposalinc.com

Carolina Disposal Services
336-731-7777

Davidson County Integrated Solid Waste
336-224-5376
220 Davidson County Landfill Road, Lexington, NC 27292

North Davidson Garbage Service
336-731-4025
4157 Old U.S. Hwy. 52, Lexington, NC 27295

Republic Waste Services of NC
www.republicservices.com

Thomasville Recycling Center
336-472-2939
209 Randolph St., Thomasville, NC 27360
www.thomasvillerecycling.com

Yates Disposal
336-224-2200
2579 E. U.S. Hwy. 64, Lexington, NC 27292

Water & Sewage

Davidson County Public Works & Services
336-242-2030
925 N. Main St., Lexington, NC 27292

Davidson Water, Inc.
336-731-2341 or 336-475-8229
7040 Old U.S. Hwy. 52, Lexington, NC 27374
www.davidsonwater.com

City of Lexington Water & Sewer
Customer Service
336-243-2489

City of Thomasville Water & Sewer
Customer Service
336-475-4227

An Enviable Location

The advantages of Davidson County have become more apparent for businesses in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, retail and tourism/travel.

The Thomasville and Lexington areas, specifically, can provide business owners with the benefits of low taxes, a dependable workforce and location along I-85.

Here is a look at how Thomasville and Lexington are planning for the future.

Thomasville

Furniture and textile manufacturing were once main stays in the Thomasville area, but city leaders have made a concerted effort to expand beyond those industries in recent years.

“This effort has paid off with the development and expansion of Mohawk Flooring, Bartimaeus by Design, Coveris Advanced Coatings, McIntyre Manufacturing Group and Old Dominion Trucking here in Thomasville and EGGER Wood Products in Davidson County,” said Thomasville Assistant City Manager Michael Brandt. “By broadening the types of manufacturing, it is hoped that when there is a down market in one area, the other industries are able to continue producing. This also broadens the tax base for the city, helping to stabilize our city revenues.”

The city found some innovative ways to assist with the growth.

For example, Mohawk Industries is completing a significant warehouse expansion that received incentives from the city through state and federal grants, Brandt said. Wildcat Territory, a small custom home goods company, used similar incentives recently to refurbish an underutilized manufacturing plant.

Now, with the continued success of manufacturing, the city is focusing on developing more retail and service businesses. Thomasville leaders are looking to bring more high-end chain store development near the southern end of the city around the NC Route 109/I-85 interchange, as well as lodging options.

“We have a unique opportunity to focus on National Highway between I-85 and downtown due to the designation of the area as an Opportunity Zone by the state and federal governments,” Brandt said. “This designation allows for special tax benefits for developers interested in building new buildings and redeveloping older properties. Significantly, these incentives apply to both commercial and manufacturing development.”

Brandt also sees an opportunity for landowners and developers to offer warehousing and light manufacturing building options, as many businesses are looking for already finished, modern facilities.

The downtown area of Thomasville has plenty of potential as well, Brandt said.

“Thomasville has a large market area that extends into two surrounding counties. The convenience of I-85 in the south and 29/70 in the north make it easy for people to visit Thomasville businesses. We are seeing a resurgence of interest and development in the downtown,” he said.

“The city and the Thomasville Area Chamber work closely together to continue to improve the local business climate.” Brandt said.

“We are exploring ways to bring in new retail development and support our existing businesses through market analysis. This information will tell us more about the local market and the missing opportunities for new business enterprises.” Brandt said.

One of the longtime businesses in the Thomasville area is Allied Foam Products, which was recently named the Small Business of the Year by the Chamber.

“We are very honored to receive this award, proving hard work, dedicated employees and a wonderful customer base do pay off,” said Allied Foam President Don Clinard. “We are thankful to the Chamber for this recognition and their dedication to improve all businesses in our area.”

Allied Foam Products, Inc. primarily supplies the industry with foam protective packaging. It has various offerings, including Expanded Polystyrene, Polyethylene, Expanded Polyethylene and Polyurethane The business started in Thomasville 30 years ago and has seven employees.

Lexington

In Lexington, tourism is a priority along with manufacturing and retail growth.

“City officials work in close partnership with Lexington Tourism Authority/Visitors Center, Uptown Lexington and Barbecue Festival event coordinators to promote quality of life and major events such as the Boo Bash, Uptown Strolls, BBQ Cook-off, Depot District Music Fest and the annual Barbecue Festival,” said Lexington City Manager Terra Greene. “The LTA staff operates our new amphitheater to help coordinate outdoor events.”

One positive tourism-related addition is a Hampton Inn expected to open in 2019.

The city works with the local Chamber, county and other nearby towns to bring business to the area. For example, Lexington assisted with the planning around EGGER’s new manufacturing plant in the I-85 Corporate Center in Linwood. EGGER is one of the world’s leading wood-based materials suppliers for the furniture, wood construction and flooring industries, and this is its first U.S. manufacturing plant.

“Although EGGER is not in the corporate limits, the city worked collaboratively with Davidson County to extend sewer and natural gas service to this major new industry,” Greene said.

Also, Lexington helped make it possible for a new Chick Fil-A location by working with the North Carolina Department of Transportation to clear trees “that opened that shopping district up for easy viewing from I-85,” Greene said.

Lexington is also looking to build more co-working space availability for entrepreneurs.

The area is ideal for business because of the ability for the city to expedite plan review, Greene said.

“The city owns all utilities – including electric, natural gas, water and sewer – and can coordinate seamlessly with any developer. “The city also has the ability to offer various utility and marketing incentives.” Greene said.

One of the Lexington small business success stories is Ryan Short Entertainment, which was recently named as Small Business of the Year by the Chamber. Short started as a teenage magician and noticed over the years that some events were not well serviced by rental companies.

He started his rental business in 2011 with some inflatables, expanded to chairs and tables the next year and tents a year after that. Now he has more than 1,000 chairs and various styles of tents and tables.

“I’m in the event rental and service business,” he said. “I mainly specialize in weddings and private corporate events.”

Much of his business comes from word of mouth, and Short – a native of Lexington – thanks the community for all of the support he’s received over the years. He also credits the Chamber for referring businesses like his to others in town.

In Good Hands

From life’s minor aches and irritations to serious injuries and illnesses, residents in the Davidson
County area can turn to several medical facilities for head-to-toe care.

Wake Forest Baptist Health, Lexington Medical Center

Part of the reputable Wake Forest Baptist Health System, Lexington Medical Center is influential academically and medically for its proficiency. The hospital boasts 94 acute care beds, and is accredited by the Joint Commission. With that being said, Wake Forest Baptist Health System is a top-ranked Vizient Award winner for quality and safety measures.

In addition to being a wholesome, welcoming community hospital where patients are getting the care they need 24/7, the medical center is also a satellite provider of Wake Forest Baptist Health specialty services. Expert care for joint replacements, general orthopedics and podiatry services are provided. Wake Forest Baptist Health has 14 additional practices from pediatrics to adult internal medicine, allowing residents to receive world-class care close to home.

Patients battling cancer also have access to world-class treatment. The only cancer treatment center in Davidson County, Cancer Center-Lexington helps patients to receive their treatments in a beneficial way. The Medical Center also has quick, convenient locations.

Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center

Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center, a 146-bed community hospital, provides exceptional medical care to patients in both inpatient and outpatient settings including emergency services, birthing center, cardiology, surgery, rehabilitation, stroke, geriatric behavioral health and transitional care.

“At Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center, they are committed to improving the health of our community one person at a time by delivering high quality, safe personalized care,” President Jon Applebaum said. “Our promise is to make each individual’s health care experience remarkable, that is easy to use, so that the patient can focus on getting better and staying healthy. The team at Novant Health is united by our passion to care for patients, the community and each other. They are striving to become the health care provider of choice for Davidson County.”

Novant Health established the state’s first Baby Café, a free, no-appointment-needed opportunity for pregnant and breastfeeding women in the community to receive breastfeeding help and support from lactation consultants to meet their breastfeeding goals. The hospital also added a second 3-D mammography machine in the mammography suite to accommodate same day appointments.

Novant Health is committed to the health of the county investing more than $2,462,852 in new equipment and $2,168,837 in facility projects in 2018. Numerous specialists were added to the medical staff including neurosciences, surgical spine, ob-gyn, orthopedics and sports medicine to help meet the growing number of patients choosing Novant Health for services. Plans in 2019 include opening additional medical practices, continuing to enhance medical specialties and remaining focused on making each and every patient experience remarkable.

Preparing Students for Future Success

Whether it is kindergarten, college or somewhere in between, Davidson County equips learners of all ages with the skills they need for success.

Schools in Davidson County

Davidson County Schools consist of 36 schools: one K-12 special needs school, 18 elementary schools, seven middle schools, seven traditional high schools, one alternative high school, one career academy high school and one early college high school. These 36 schools serve more than 19,000 students from preschool students through “super seniors,” and the district employs more than 2,400 staff members.

The responsibility to prepare children for the future is as great and as necessary today as it has ever been. The pace for change in our world is unrivaled by any time in our nation’s history, and the educator’s role in preparing students to meet challenges is fundamental. Working diligently today to ensure our students become strong contributing members to society tomorrow, benefits all.

Davidson County Schools is proud to partner with parents, students and community members to contribute to the future of our nation through education.

Thomasville City Schools

Four pillars guide the Thomasville City Schools:

• Unity – representing one school, one community mentality.
• Diversity – respecting the unique attributes of each student and staff member.
• Excellence – forward to success with the goal to be better each day than the day before.
• Pride – our respect for tradition and commitment to continued growth.

Each day these pillars guide work with students, parents, the community and each other. Though many new faces lead the schools and classrooms district this year, Thomasville City Schools are committed to these long time principles to guide schools.

Along with new faces come new opportunities. During the 2018-2019 school year, the district embarked on bringing an Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Design Academy to Thomasville High School. The first group of students are set to enroll in that new endeavor in 2019-2020 with options for visiting students from other area schools to enroll as well. Feeder programs, like Project Lead the Way at Thomasville Middle School, draw interested students. Also, annual STEM/STEAM camps laid the groundwork for success with this innovative program supported by area businesses, leaders and Davidson County Community College.

In addition, the school system has recently been awarded a 1:1 technology grant from T-Mobile, which includes hotspot access for students. All students in grades 6-12 will receive a Chromebook and hotspot for access beginning in March 2019. Thomasville City Schools knows this will support future innovative programming and bridge the homework and access divide seen across so many schools and districts.

Thomasville City Schools meet or exceed state growth measures, with the graduation rate and grade level proficiency continuing to increase. The schools state participate targets were also met this year. Thomasville City Schools offer big opportunities with an Advanced Placement Capstone Program, which is one of only five in the state of North Carolina. They also have a large number of career and technical education certifications, which are received only by the top 10 percent of students in the state. Thomasville City Schools seeks to serve the whole child with strong health and wellness programs in each school and a mental health partnership that provides free school-based services. Also, Thomasville City Schools continually maintain lower class sizes and a wide range of diversity in the student body. Athletics, art, music, and JROTC Honor Unit provide award-winning extracurricular engagement usually only found in much larger systems. Advisory boards for parents, businesses, and community and faith partners also enhance the connection to the town and its supportive resources and population.

Lexington City Schools

Lexington City Schools serves approximately 3,000 students in seven schools. The current focus of the district is to maximize growth opportunities for every child, every day, in every classroom. Teachers are meeting with students individually on a regular basis to develop and review performance targets with each child to increase student engagement and ownership of their own learning. Some exciting accomplishments and accolades in Lexington City Schools this year include:

• Lexington Middle School Principal Mr. Gaillard named Piedmont Triad Principal of the Year.
• Lexington Schools awarded a Teacher Compensation and Advanced Teaching Roles grant for $929,000.
• Lexington Senior High named to the College Boards 9th Annual District Honor Roll.
• Schools are implementing innovation in high school math and Spanish options at the middle school; more collaborative opportunities through our Makerspace initiative; more college credit options; and an AP Capstone Diploma option.

Davidson County Community College

Davidson County Community College provides the community with innovative opportunities and experiences for better lives. Since its beginnings in 1963, DCCC has grown to meet the needs of the changing workforce and evolving industries. The latest evolution brought about the construction of the Smith Health Sciences Building on the Davidson campus to meet the increasing demand for trained health care professionals. The college also operates a growing campus in Davie County.

DCCC offers over 40 academic programs and pathways in areas such as health care, wellness, skilled trades, business, computers, law, public safety, education and engineering. Online, weekend and evening programs options are available. DCCC seeks to meet its community members pursuing career and academic growth. (Students pursue two-year associate degrees or shorter term options, including continuing education courses). DCCC’s college transfer program allows students to gain valuable credits and experience before transferring to a four-year institution.

Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy (YVRCA)

Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy is a modern school in an old building, and yet focuses on STEM learning.

Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy collaborates and innovates early college high school partners with business, industry and Davidson County Community College allowing students to earn manufacturing and professional skill certifications. The school even offers an associate degree upon graduation. Authentic, workplace learning is encouraged through active participation by job creators in the classrooms and serving on board of advisory.

In 2018, Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy was named a Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) School of Distinction – “Model School” by the NC Department of Public Instruction. Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy along with the Early College program are the only two schools in Davidson County to achieve the “A” grade recognition by NC Department of Public Instruction.

The success of students graduating from Yadkin Valley Regional Career Academy can be attributed to the school’s curriculum using modern educational methods with team-based and project-based learning. Students are taught professional workplace behaviors and how to solve problems using the engineering design process.

Schools in Davidson County NC

Primary Schools K-12

Davidson County Schools
336-249-8182
250 County School Road, Lexington, NC 27293
www.davidson.k12.nc.us

Lexington City Schools
336-242-1527
1010 Fair St., Lexington, NC 27292
www.lexcs.org

Thomasville City Schools
336-474-4200
400 Turner St., Thomasville, NC 27360
www.tcs.k12.nc.us

Private Schools

Sheets Memorial Christian School
336-249-4224
307 Holt St., Lexington, NC 27292
www.sheetsmemorial.org

Charter School

Davidson Charter Academy
336-803-7809
500 Biesecker Rd., Lexington, NC 27295
davidson.teamcfa.school

Higher Education

Davidson County Community College
336-249-8186
297 DCCC Road, Thomasville, NC 27360
www.davidsonccc.edu

A Great Place to Live Davidson County

Davidson County is an attractive place to live, whether you’re a young family starting out in Lexington or a retiree looking for a safe and relaxing place on High Rock Lake.

“Davidson County is a great place to live and raise a family,” said real estate agent Deborah Saintsing, who is a life resident of the area. “Our central location in the state makes it a very enviable place to reside. We have vibrant towns and communities within short distances of boating, hiking, camping, biking, fishing, or scuba diving.

“I would not want to live anywhere else.”

The market for first-time homebuyers is robust, with new developments that are providing some variety. Attractive developments are found in Lexington and northern Davidson County such as the Vineyards in Lexington and Meadowfield in Clemmons.

For move-up buyers, “There have been several developments in Lexington such as Wilkes Creek and again in northern Davidson County such as Celo Knob Trail, which is Davidson County with a Kernersville address,” Saintsing said. “Existing home sales have done especially well for those that have been updated for the move-up buyers.”

Another sought-after subdivision is Steeplegate, which is in nearby Trinity, said longtime real estate agent Ben Watford.

“Low taxes, great school districts and Southern hospitality are some of the reasons Davidson County is a great place to live,” he said.

High Rock Lake is another popular area, with plenty of year-round and vacation homes available.

The lake is the second-largest in the state, covering more than 15,000 acres, with 365 miles of shoreline. High Rock is on the boundary of Davidson and Rowan counties and serves as a reservoir for hydroelectric power generation. In addition to boating, people enjoy fishing for bass, crappie and catfish, among others.

“The market is doing really well on the lake,” Watford said.

The market is ideal for homebuyers because the prices are more affordable than similar lakes near large markets such as Charlotte and Raleigh.

“There has been more of a transition on High Rock Lake toward permanent residences as opposed to strictly vacation homes,” Saintsing said. “It is such a convenient location and there is so much there to offer the whole family,” she said. “Who wouldn’t want to have coffee each morning with a view of that beautiful lake?”

North Carolina is a popular location for retirees, and Saintsing has worked with many couples who are downsizing.

“Typically I see them going into condos and nice townhomes where there is less maintenance and little to no yard work,” she said. “Davidson County is also enjoying a trend for being a place out-of-state buyers want to move to. We offer lots of great services, convenience and lower property taxes.”

Saintsing also noted that “there has been a recent trend among all buyers for less wasted space – sort of a minimalist trend. It has not taken complete root yet but I do see it more.”

One of the most coveted spaces for some families and singles is the new Big Chair Lofts rental development, which is in the heart of Thomasville’s downtown shopping area. The location is a redevelopment of the old Thomasville Furniture Mill, and combines details such as hardwood floors with modern appliances and fixtures.

One- and two-bedroom options are available at Big Chair Lofts. In addition to amenities in each unit, such as huge windows, tall ceilings and fully equipped kitchens, the community extras include a business center, game room, resident theater and picnic area.

Saintsing is like many Davidson County residents – she values the convenience of an area that boasts just about everything she wants, and is close to the mountains and the coast.

“It is very easy to sell people on the idea that this is a great place to live,” she said.