Jul 20, 2008

Belmont still thriving in tough economic climateBy Joe DePriestCharlotteObserver.com

It isn’t the best of economic times, but Teresa McCarter has decided to open a new business anyway.

Within the next few days, she’ll launch Happy Dog Café & Boutique at 26 N. Main St. Suite 1 in downtown Belmont.

McCarter, 48, gave up her job as operations manager of Charlotte-based Emco Inc., a power transmission distributor, to start a specialty shop for dogs in her hometown.

She’ll stock everything from gourmet health food and supplements to dress-up clothing and life jackets. Prices will range from 59 cents for a treat to $100 for bedding.

“Some of my friends who aren’t dog lovers thought I’d lost my mind,” McCarter said. “But I think it’s the right thing to do. Belmont is a dog-friendly town. People love their animals, and they love to walk them.”

Despite the challenging economic times, activity in and around the heart of this eastern Gaston County city is still robust, leaders say.

Ted Hall, president of the Montcross Area Chamber of Commerce, said work is progressing on String Bean, a new fresh market and deli at 106 N. Main St. The building was formerly occupied by the Emporium, a gift and antique shop that closed on June 14.

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