March Newsletter - Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce

Greater Mount Airy
Chamber of Commerce
V O L U M E
SPECIAL
POINTS OF
INTEREST:
April 18, 2009
Froo Froo Pet
Boutique
Ribbon Cutting
171 North Main Street
1 Year Ann. Ribbon
Cutting
Mount Airy, NC
27030
11:00 am.
(336) 719-6818
April 22, 2009
Administrative
Professionals Day
12 noon
Cross Creek Country
Club
$20 per person
May 7, 2009
1:00 p.m. Tee Time
Lunch and Golf
Tournament
Cross Creek Country
Club
INSIDE
THIS ISSUE:
Membership
2-15
Education
16-19
Small Business
20-21
Member Event
22
Gov. Bev Perdue 23
Tourism
24-25
Contacts
26
2
I S S U E
3
M A R C H
2 0 0 9
Save the Dates !
April 22nd
Administrative Professionals Day.
May 7th
Golf Tournament—information to
come in the next week with Team
Entry Form and Sponsorship Form.
June 18th
Chamber Member Business Expo. More
information to come on booths and
entertainment. Plan to bring your
family and friends to this can’t miss
event showcasing Greater Mount Airy
Chamber Members!
PAGE
2
ANNUAL AWARDS LUNCHEON HELD
The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce held the 4th annual Awards Luncheon on Thursday March 27, 2009 at
Cross Creek Country Club sponsored by Neighbors, 100.9 WIFM and Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast. Over 100 chamber members and guest attended the luncheon where seven awards were presented.
Business in Education Award was presented to CK Technologies. CK Technol0gies has been an outstanding
business partner for North Surry High School as well as being an outstanding corporate citizen in our community.
Their efforts have impacted students and faculty at North Surry and other Surry County schools and our community as
a whole. Some examples include the following; employment opportunities for students attending Surry Community
College. internships for North Surry students, corporate sponsor for the North Star Academy, serving as mentors,
hosting fieldtrips, sponsorships of fire safety programs, little league and other needed programs within the school system. CK Technologies have made their resources and their time available to help improve opportunities for students
and teachers. The Business in Education Award was sponsored by Workforce Carolina.
Excellence in Travel & Tourism Award was presented to Gerald Culler. Gerald and his dedicated group of volunteers have been responsible for the Mayberry March Madness Tournament for the past 7 years. Bringing over 125
girls basketball teams to the area for a single event that represents thousands of people pouring into Mount Airy and
Surry County filling hotel rooms, restaurants and our shopping areas. The Excellence in Travel & Tourism award was
sponsored by the Mount Airy Tourism Development.
Green Business of the Year Award was presented to CK Technologies. Since opening in Mount Airy green practices in their everyday operations have been promoted by management with encouragement of carpooling, bicycling
or driving hybrid vehicles; acreage set aside for wildlife and native plants; measures to reduce in-house airborne contaminants, recycling of plastics, paper, glass, metals, oils and batteries; erecting a LEED certified building to house its
operations, This building’s total energy performance is 35% more effective than building codes require. In a time
when environmental stewardship is more important CK Technologies has paved the path for others to follow. This
was the FIRST YEAR that a Green Business Award was presented and was sponsored by Liberty Business Partners.
Business Longevity Award was presented to Brannock & Hiatt Furniture Inc. The criteria for this award was, a
business must be a chamber member in good standing that has operated the business in an ethical manner and provided this community with quality goods or services for a minimum of twenty years.
Operating most of its 45+ year existence under the supervision of a husband and wife team, Brannock & Hiatt has
since more than quadrupled in size and currently provides employment for 21 individuals. Not only has the business
been a retail operation that has garnered the respect of customers in and around the town of Mount Airy, it has also
built a reputation for providing quality service support, as well as for being a generous corporate citizen employee of
the business “Treat people like you want to be treated” has been said by the owners more than once What a wonderful mantra for a business. Even now, business cards from this corporation begin with the words, “A family tradition of
sales and service.” This was the FIRST YEAR that a Business Longevity Award was presented and was sponsored
by the Business Development Committee of the Chamber.
Small Business of the Year Award was presented to SouthData, Inc. SouthData is strongly committed to the core
small-town values such as honesty, loyalty, friendliness, integrity, responsibility and accountability. In1985 as an entrepreneurial idea to provide payment books and billing statements, SouthData has grown into one of the country’s leading providers of billing solutions and communications who is committed to excellence and innovation, while maintaining environmental responsibility by recycling or reusing 95 percent of all waste. The Small Business Award was sponsored by Surrey Bank & Trust.
Outstanding Public Service Award was presented to Polly H. Long. Polly has dedicated 40 years to public service
in the educational field. An advocate for education at every level, she has been instrumental in improving educational
opportunities for all. Her abilities to build partnerships with the business community and our youth with innovative
ideas and resources have enabled her to be a leader of connecting the needs and services in our community. The
Outstanding Public Service Award was sponsored by Greene Finance/Specialty Gifts, LLC.
Ambassador of the Year Award was presented to Mary Thompson. Mary has exemplified the highest level of
commitment to the Chambers Ambassadors Club mission. Thanks to Mary’s employer, RBC Bank she has volunteered time and effort to participate, attend and support as many chamber activities as possible. Mary possesses the
traits that one envisions for an Ambassador; character, leadership abilities and personality! She is a role model, a
team player with a warm smile and a sincere heart. The Ambassador of the Year Award was sponsored by Burke
Robertson & Associates.
PAGE
3
PAGE
4
Welcome New Chamber Members
Sela Building Corporation – Located at 1804 North Bridge Street Elkin, NC
28621. Phone (336) 835-6700 or visit www.selabuilding.com.
Sela Building Corporation was established in April 2001 and employs 9 full time people
with the top management having over 90 years of combined experience. President is
Phillip Ratley, Controller is Corey McDonough and Office Manager is Crissy Prevette.
Sela Building is a privately held North Carolina General Contractor located in the western part of the state providing services throughout Georgia, North Carolina, South
Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia that specializes in design-build, residential and commercial construction. The residential division primarily consists of building single-family
homes, small to large remodels, condominiums and townhomes. The commercial division's core focus is towards professional and medical office buildings, pharmacies,
convenience stores, restaurants, retail shopping centers and churches.
Sela Building’s approach to construction is to listen to the customer’s concept and then
develop a well-disciplined approach. Planning and managing quality projects with professionalism and excellence while maintaining value, honesty and integrity. Sela Building has a vast number of professional, vendor, municipality, and customer contacts
that can be called upon to work as a team to achieve the customer’s goals. Sela Building Contractor has the knowledge and experience to get projects completed on time
and within budget.
United Processing Co. – PO Box 1362 or 281 Forkner Road Mount Airy, NC
27030. Phone (336) 325-7925 or visit www.unitedprocessing.net.
United Processing Co. was established in May 2003 and is owned by Glenn Dulaney.
United Processing provides payment processing services for small and medium sized
merchants wishing to accept electronic payment for goods or services. United Processing Co. can help a retail storefront, restaurant, hotel, service business or a mobile
sales business with electronic payment services. Contact Glen Dulaney for point of
sale equipment and software sales that will have your business ready to accept electronic payments in a matter of days.
Piedmont Triad Computer Consulting, Inc. – Located at 3626 Clemmons
Road Clemmons, NC 27012. Phone (336) 766-5555 or visit www.ptccinc.com.
Founded in 1987, Piedmont Triad Computer Consulting, Inc. began by providing custom IBM mid-range software solutions for businesses, institutions and industry. Over
the years PTCC broadened its services to include custom PC and PC Server applications, hardware setup and support, as well as network configuration and support. Today PTCC continues to provide complete Information Technology solutions to businesses throughout the Piedmont Triad area and beyond.
CEO/Executive Officer – Harold Willis, CEO/Senior Consultant – James Willis and
Manager - Lori Sloop; PTCC currently employs 9 fulltime people. The PTCC Philosophy revolves around establishing long lasting relationships by providing expert and responsive information technology support at reasonable prices. Call Lori Sloop today
and see how PTCC can help your business.
PAGE
BNI Platinum Products – BNI is the largest business networking organization in the
world, offering members the opportunity to share ideas, contacts and most importantly, business referrals. The BNI Platinum Producers Chapter is a representation of local business
professionals where a structured environment allows the development and exchange of
quality business referrals. This local chapter was established in July 2008 and currently has
30-35 members that meet every Wednesday morning at Pilot Knob Park Country Club to
shares leads and other business referral information. Local chapter President is Florene
Miller and Vice President is Glenn Dulaney. The Local Chapter Business address is 186
North Bowman Road Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone (336) 326-7948 or visit www.bni.com.
Associate Member, Dennis Lowe – Dennis Lowe recently retired from Surry Community College after numerous years of service with the college, most recently serving as the
Director of the Small Business Center. Dennis has been actively involved with the chamber’s
business related divisions and committees for many years and has played a vital role in
steering these efforts in the right direction. He has been a committee member, Board member, Vice- Chairman and strong supporter of the chamber, always approaching issues and
matters with a common sense approach. Dennis Lowe will continue to act at Vice-Chair of
the Business Development Division of the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce.
Pet Stop of The Foothills 110 Kindness Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone (336)
719-6804 or (336) 401-0245 or visit www.petstopofthe foothills.com. Locally owned by Patrick Hawks. Pet Stop of the Foothills offers the most customizable pet containment system
on the market today. Pet Stop fence systems are safer by design and give pet owners
peace of mind. By combining three factors: the love of pets, experience, and a commitment to innovative technology, Pet Stop is able to offer a superior system that is fully guaranteed to work effectively for any pet- any breed of dog or cat—outside or inside your home.
Pet Stop’s dedication to your pet’s overall safety goes “hand-in-paw” with being the makers
of the most secure fence system on the market, driven by a genuine concern for keeping our
pet safe and protected. www.petstopofthefoothills.com.
All great deeds and all great thoughts have a ridiculous
beginning. Great works are often born on a street corner
or in a restaurant's revolving door.
Albert Camus
5
PAGE
6
White Sulphur Springs Rehabilitation &
Wellness Center host Open House and Business
After Hours
White Sulphur Springs Rehabilitation & Wellness Center hosted an Open
House and Business After Hours event on March 10, 2009.
Casey Vedder, Physical Therapist and Dr. Leslie Stoklosa, Chiropractic
Physician welcomed chamber members and guests to their office located
at 2994 Riverside Drive in Mount Airy. Dr. Leslie and Cassy have reorganized and joined their specialties into White Sulphur Springs Rehabilitation
& Wellness Center. A total of eight employees work at the facility with three
physical therapist floating between Tri-County Orthopedics and White Sulphur Springs Rehab. The greater Mount Airy community is fortunate to
have these two young specialists practicing here; Casey is from Minnesota
and Leslie is from New York and both have become contributing members
of our community not only in their practices but in their commitment to
community service.
White Sulphur Springs Rehabilitation & Wellness Center
2994 Riverside Drive, Mount Airy, NC 27030
Phone: (336) 786-6565 / Fax: (336) 786-5110
www.wsschiropractic.com
Chamber President, Betty Ann Collins
chats with Jim Petelle of Insteel Industries, Inc. and Dr. Leslie Stoklosa.
PAGE
Cheri Soriano with Chelli &
Associates chats with Scotty
Lambert and Jim Willis of
Piedmont Triad Computer
Consulting, Inc.
Brian McPeak, J's Office
Supply & Etc., Inc., wife
Adrian McPeak with The
Messenger join Sheila
Jones of Mountain Valley
Hospice and Palliative Care
for a photo.
Cindy and Steve Hutson owners of Mister Sparky
enjoyed the event.
Physical Therapist, Casey
Vedder welcomes
everyone to the
event.
7
PAGE
8
The Wound Care Center at Northern Hospital Hosts
Business After Hours
The Wound Care Center at Northern Hospital hosted a Business After Hours event on
Thursday March 5, 2009 at the new facility located at South Street Medical Park in Mount
Airy. Over sixty Chamber members and guests attended the event and were given a tour of
this fabulous facility that is unlike any other facility in our region!
The Wound Care Center at Northern Hospital is an outpatient, hospital-affiliated program to
provide treatment for problem wounds. Patients are usually referred by their primary care
physician, but may be self-referred. The program operates by appointment. A state-of-theart facility, the Center provides the most advanced therapies and the latest clinical modalities to treat problem wounds.
Incidences of problem wounds are on the rise due largely to an aging population and an increase in diabetes. For example, approximately 18.5 million Americans have diabetes and,
of that population, about 1.8 million will suffer from a problem wound. For most people, cuts
and scratches heal within days or weeks. But for those whose natural healing process is
hampered, a simple sore can become a complex medical problem. Without proper treatment, these problem wounds can hamper physical activity, quality of life and, in some
cases, be debilitating.
The Center employs the most technologically advanced wound care therapy. There are
multiple diagnostic and treatment modalities depending on the situation. These include infectious disease management, physical therapy, occupational therapy, laboratory evaluation, nutritional management, pain management, diabetic education, nuclear medicine, radiology and debridement.
Treatment options also include Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO2T), which is prescribed
for approximately 20 percent of non-healing wounds.
About HBO2T
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO2T) is a procedure in which a patient breathes 100 percent oxygen while relaxing in a pressurized chamber. This delivers high concentrations of
oxygen to the blood stream and the wound bed, which rapidly accelerates the healing process.
All staff members have completed advanced training in wound management.
Medical Director – William E. Refvem, MD, Orthopedic Surgery, R. Bruce Middleton, MD,
General Surgery, R. Scott Corbin, MD, General Surgery, Zuzana Banas, MD, Internal Medicine, Bradley Goad, DO, Internal Medicine, David Majure, MD, Family Practice, Jim Shipley,
DPM, Podiatry. The Center’s Clinical Coordinator: Rebekah Meyers, RN, CWOCN and the
Center’s Program Director: Laura Joyce.
The Wound Care Center at Northern Hospital
South Street Medical Park
314 S. South Street
Suite 200
Mount Airy, NC 27030
Phone: (336) 786-2033
Fax: (336) 786-5190
Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm
www.northernhospital.org
PAGE
Bill James, CEO welcomes Chairman, Dr. George
Sappenfield and the chamber members to The
Wound Care Center at Northern Hospital .
9
Dr. William Refvem, medical director speaks to
the guests about the services available at The
Tours of the new facility were given.
Brenda Martin demonstrates relaxing in the pressurized chamber.
Chamber members and guests attend the event.
PAGE
10
Chamber Surprise Patrol visits Network
Dynamics, Inc.
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unexpected visit to Network Dynamics, Inc. located at 720 East Old Hwy 52 By-Pass in
Pilot Mountain, North Carolina on Tuesday March 10, 2009. The
Chamber Surprise Patrol met in the parking lot with the balloons,
cookies and basket of candy which raised the curiosity of the staff
inside. Owner, Dwight Springthorpe greeted the Chamber Surprise Patrol at the door and welcomed everyone to Network Dynamics. Once inside, the Chamber Surprise Patrol had a chance
to meet the staff and was then given a tour of Network Dynamics
and an overview of the services offered by Network Dynamics.
Network Dynamics, Inc. has the capability to analyze the computer needs of any organization because of their broad exposure
and extensive knowledge. Services include the following: Local
area network design and implementation, wide area network design and implementation, computer network testing and certification, network operating system determination and installation,
desktop configuration and upgrades, network administration, database administration, remote connectivity, applications training
support, Microsoft BackOffice installation and configuration, Microsoft Office installation and configuration, as well as many
more.
What a fascinating business and warm reception the Chamber
Surprise Patrol received while visiting Network Dynamics, Inc.
Network Dynamics, Inc.
720 East Old Hwy 52 By-Pass
Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
(336) 368-2560
PAGE
11
The Network Dynamics,
Inc. staff – Dwight Springthorpe, Vickie Owens, Tim
Fleming, Susan Sink, Carl
Burger, Kim Sulsziski, Matthew Sechrist along with
Chamber Surprise Patrol
members - Sheila Jones,
Yvonne Nichols, Robin Dollyhigh, Julie Perkins and
Betty Ann Collins
Tim Fleming hard at work at his
desk.
Vickie Owens takes a call from a
customer.
Dwight Springthorpe shows the
Chamber Surprise Patrol how Network Dynamics monitors area networks.
John Ring with Network Dynamics, Inc.
checks the computer system at the
Chamber office.
PAGE
12
Chamber Surprise Patrol visits Burke Robertson &
Associates, Inc.
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unexpected visit to Robertson & Associates, Inc located 492 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 on Tuesday
March 24, 2009. The Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived with the balloons,
cookies and basket of candy. Owner, Burke Robertson was not in the office
when the Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived so the group gathered in the
board room until Burke arrived. Surprise Burke! Burke Robertson gave the
group an update on the current real estate market and the progress on White
Sulphur Springs. Burke loves this community and it is evident every time you
to talk to him! The Chamber Surprise Patrol had a chance to meet the staff
and pose for a group photo. Another wonderful Chamber Surprise Patrol visit
with a great Chamber member!
Burke Robertson & Associates, Inc., dedicated to providing superior real estate sales, investments, asset management, advisory services and new construction for sellers, buyers, lenders, developers and investors in connection
with residential and commercial real estate.
Burke Robertson & Associates, Inc
492 N. Main Street
Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336) 786-1900
www.BurkeRobertsonAssociates.com
PAGE
13
Photo one –Chamber Ambassador Patricia Bondurant
welcomes Burke into the
room where he is greeted by
the Chamber Surprise Patrol.
Photo two – Betty Ann
Collins thanks Burke Robertson & Associates for being
Chamber Members and for
their continued support of
the chamber and its programs of work. Chamber
Ambassadors, Sheila Jones
and Julie Perkins look on.
Photo three – Burke
Robertson seated) is surrounded by (back row)
Yvonne Nichols - Chamber
of Commerce, Patricia Bondurant - Residential Mortgage Corp, Betty Ann Collins
- Chamber of Commerce,
Robin Dollyhigh - Chamber
of Commerce, Tim VanHoy The Greater Mount Airy Area
Habitat for Humanity, Sheila
Jones - Mountain Valley
Hospice and Palliative Care,
Robert Rodgers - Burke
Robertson & Associates,
Amy Bledsoe – Burke
Robertson & Associates,
Julie Perkins – Perkins Financial Group, Katherine
Edmonds – Burke Robertson
& Associates, Traci Hamilton
– Workforce Carolina, and
Sandra Richards - Residential Mortgage Corp.
PAGE
14
John S. Clark Company, LLC held its Annual Project Manager and Superintendent Meeting recently in Mount Airy, NC. The company awarded
Safety Awards to Bill Bryan and Sam Pace.
Bill Bryan was named Safety Project Manager of the Year. Mr. Bryan is assigned to
the company’s Triad Commercial Division and is currently overseeing the construction
of Primland Resort & Lodge, a 5-Star Resort in Meadows of Dan, VA. He was selected
for this award based of the following criteria:
Always puts safety ahead of other issues
Holds subcontractors to the upmost OHSA compliance
Chooses subcontractors for known safety performance
Preplans hazardous phases of the project with JSClark onsite management,
subcontractors, and Field Safety Coordinator before the tasks are started
Inspects the project and addresses safety issues on each site visit
Stands behind JSClark onsite management decisions in regards to making the
project a safe place to work.
Sam Pace was named Safety Superintendent of the Year. Mr. Pace is assigned to the
company’s Wilmington, NC Division and is currently working on the Boone Trail
Elementary Project. He was selected for this award based on the following criteria:
Makes safety the first priority on the project
After several OSHA Building Star evaluations, his project was found 100% in
compliance
Holds subcontractors to the upmost OSHA compliance
Preplans hazardous phases of the project with JSClark onsite management,
subcontractors, and Field Safety Coordinator before the tasks are started
Most recently, Mr. Pace completed a project with no accidents, ahead of
schedule as well as increased the projected profits on the project.
About John S. Clark Company, LLC
John S. Clark Company is one of the oldest and largest general building contractors in
North Carolina’s Piedmont Triad and in the Southeast, and a leading provider of in-house
design-build services. Founded in 1958, the company has headquarters in Mount Airy
and full-service offices in Winston-Salem, Greensboro and Wilmington, N.C
For more information visit the company’s website at www.jsclark.com.
PAGE
Patterson, Collins Merging locations
Lee Collins and Paul Patterson recently announced a merger between the
two companies after a combined 73 years of service to our community. Paul
and Lee feel that by operating as one stronger company they will be able to
provide customer service at its best as well as keeping jobs in Surry County.
E.T. Bass and Co. holds
Ribbon Cutting
E.T. Bass and Co. located at 115 North Main Street in Mount Airy held
a Ribbon Cutting ceremony on Friday March 20, 2009 at 11:00am officially opening the doors. Owned by Perry and Rebecca Turpin, E.T.
Bass and Co. is a neat store…. carrying an assortment of antiques
many of which have been collected by Perry and Rebecca, other collectibles, local woodwork and is an authorized dealer for Case XX
knives…... a great addition to the eclectic retail mix in downtown
Mount Airy. The attendance for the ribbon cutting was large with many
of the downtown merchants attending the ceremony
welcoming E.T. Bass and Co. to Main Street. Stop by
and say hello to Perry, Rebecca and Olivia!
E.T. Bass and CO.
115 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC
27030.
Phone (336) 719-6985
15
PAGE
E
D
U
C
A
T
I
O
N
16
Three Mount Airy Middle School teachers received a grant from NC Beautiful. The teachers are leaders
of The Green Team at the school.
slideshow
Three teachers at Mount Airy Middle School recently were awarded a grant for more than $6,000 to be
used to teach and develop teaching programs aimed at helping students learn about water conservation.
Nichole Wunderle, Donna Jarrell and Dennis France, leaders of the Green Team and teachers at Mount
Airy Middle School, recently received the Philip Morris USA Water Conservation Grant.
The Green Team was created three years ago as a club to raise awareness of environmental issues, as
well as a place to learn special skills. The Team does water quality testing, plants gardens, has recycle
programs and takes on other projects.
A acheck for $6,099.10 was presented to the school.
Surry Community College will be offering "University Transfer Information Sessions" on April
6, 7, and 9 in room A121 (Please see the various times listed below). These sessions will answer general transfer questions for prospective students, help them with how to set up a university visit, as well as assist current students select courses to satisfy a transfer degree.
On April 6th, university representatives will also be on hand to answer questions from the following schools: UNC-Greensboro, Appalachian State University, High Point University (day
and evening programs), Lees McRae, Winston-Salem State University, Gardner-Webb University and Salem College (including the Fleer Center for men and women). In addition, these
colleges will be available in the Knight's Grill from 9:00 a.m. to 11:15 am, before the information sessions.
For more information, please contact Scott Wilson at 336-386-3370.
Dates & Times:
April 6th: 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m.
April 7th: 6:00 p.m.
April 9th: 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
State Sen. Don East of Surry County introduced a bill that
would give public school systems across North Carolina
more flexibility in deciding when classes begin and end each
year.
PAGE
17
The legislation proposed by the Pilot Mountain Republican
would eliminate a stipulation in the state’s existing school
calendar law requiring an academic year to begin no earlier
than Aug. 25 and end no later than June 10.
If it is approved by the N.C. General Assembly, local boards
of education would have more scheduling authority over
either starting sessions earlier in August or continuing
them later in June.
Young Educator of the Year
East’s proposal was applauded by spokesmen for both
Dr. Hartness, Superintendent
of the Mount Airy City
Mount Airy and Surry County schools.
Dr. Harness, Superintendent of the Mount Airy City Schools (pictured above right) was honored as the
State’s Outstanding Young Educator of the Year by the North Carolina Association for Supervision and
Curriculum Development. Hartness was chosen from 30 other nominees across the state. Dr. Hartness
received his award at a conference in Pinehurst.
The award is designed to recognize a professional 40 years of age or younger who exemplary commitment and exceptional contributions to the profession.
Students collect honors at state research competition
Local area students from Mount Airy High School, Surry Early College High School of
Design and Millennium Charter Academy (MCA) competed in the NCSAS Research
Competition at the North Carolina School of Science and Math. Isabella Gillespie, Will
Pfitzner and Paulina Kriska represented the Early College, Jillian Epperson and Danielle
Jones represented Mount Airy High School.
Millennium Charter Academy had the largest group of middle schoolers to participate in
the state competition and received more awards than any other middle school. Fred
Moore, Jake Nester, Emma Harrison, Jessica Williamson, Shania King, Joey Pearman, Jordan Jackson, Ashley Martin, Sydney Cromer and Panayiota Boutis, Andrew Balogh, Marissa Petri , Will Cambell, Ryan Worth, John Ferry, Micaela Tumbarello, Adam Cave, John
Bowman, Taylor Knight, Samantha Tickles, Daniel Robinson, Tyler Shuttleworth,
Lyubomir Gizdarski, Mary Beth Browne and Samuel Watson were school representatives.
Rob Halpern, Science Teacher at MCA, received a special surprise when he was
named NCSAS Middle School Teacher of the Year at the event.
PAGE
18
Youth Leadership Surry
A
Day
In...
M
O
U
N
T
A
I
R
Y
The Goal:
To develop the leadership potential of the youth in Surry County in
order to prepare them to become our future leaders.
The Objectives:
• To identify, select, and recruit the top junior students in Surry
County to participate in the program.
• To provide a series of learning activities and seminars designed
to develop leadership potential.
• To increase the participant’s awareness of the community by
exploring its history, economics, government, law enforcement,
and legal system as well as state government.
• To develop a sense of community pride and involvement and to
encourage students to participate in one or more community based
activities.
How it works:
• Thirty-five students within the top 20% of the junior class will be
selected for the program. Those included are five students
(each) from East Surry High School, Surry Central High School,
North Surry High School, Mt. Airy High School, Elkin High
School, and Surry Early College High School of Design.
• Students will receive notification of program dates, deadlines,
directions, or other related information by their corresponding
school representative.
• It is the student’s responsibility to provide transportation to and
from each program site.
Special Note:
Participating students will not be counted absent on days of programs.
However, students are required to coordinate with their teachers and
complete any missed work.
2008 - 2009 Youth Leadership Surry
Meeting Dates
March 18 (Mount Airy- Tourism)
April 16 (Pilot Mountain- Recreation)
September 16 (Mount Airy- Non profit)
September 30 (Raven Knob- Leadership)
October 21 (Elkin- Healthcare)
November 10 (Dobson- Education/Local Government)
December 1 (Dobson- Presentations for 08-09/ Kick Off for 09-10)
PAGE
19
PAGE
20
SBA 504 Loans . . . the way to finance Small Business Expansion!
504 loans are for small business owners who…
Want to own their own workplace - retail, professional building, manufacturing facility, warehouse
Decide to build a new building for their business, office, restaurant, hotel, franchise operation
Need to purchase machinery or equipment
What is the SBA 504 loan program?
The SBA 504 Loan Program is the Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) economic development financing program that
helps American small businesses grow while benefiting communities through tax base expansion, business growth and job creation. Loans are available for all types of small*, for-profit businesses to purchase and/or renovate capital assets including land,
buildings and equipment.
Since 1980 over 50,000 SBA 504 loans have been made representing financing of over $20 billion and resulting in the
creation or retention of over 1,000,000 jobs.
* Net worth under $8.5 million and net annual profit under $3 million, however, there are some exceptions.
How does it work?
through your local Certified Development Company…
Financing is provided through Certified Development Companies (CDCs). CDCs are economic development organizations that
are certified by the Small Business Administration to make loans under the SBA 504 loan program. The CDC works with the
small business borrower to process, approve, close and service the SBA 504 loan. Funding is provided by the CDC issuing a 10 or
20-year bond that is sold to investors on Wall Street. These bonds are attractive to investors since they are fully guaranteed by the
U.S. Treasury in the event a small business should default.
Advantages of an SBA 504 loan
Low down payment
As little as 10%. Lets the small business owner preserve critical working capital.
Long term
SBA 504 loans offer 10 or 20 year fully amortizing terms. Because the CDC is in a second lien position, the bank or other lender
providing the 50% first lien loan is willing to lend for a longer term.
Low, fixed interest rate
The interest rate is fixed for 10 or 20 years. No worries about the prime lending rate going up. Even with fees and closing costs
included in the rate, 504 loans still offer a low rate for a subordinate mortgage loan, particularly for a small business.
Advantages for the bank
The banker participating as the first mortgage lender receives CRA credits; lends at a lower loan to value ratio; keeps a growing
customer happy; and has lower risk because the SBA 504 loan is in a subordinate position to the bank loan.
PAGE
Eligible 504 Projects
21
Fixed-Asset Acquisition or Expansion, Including:
Purchase land and construct new buildings
Purchase and/or renovate existing buildings
Acquire/install machinery
Construct or remodel buildings on leased land
504 Project Profile
Projects range from $500,000 up to $10,000,000
Maximum Amount of 504 Loan – Up to $1,500,000 - Maximum 40% of project costs. (Maximum increased to $2,000,000 if project meets one of SBA’s “Public Policy Goals” or $4,000,000 for manufacturing projects.)
Job Creation or Retention - Debenture funding is tied to job creation or retention, and companies must demonstrate their project
will create or retain jobs for their community; or, alternatively, meet a Public Policy Goal such as Woman-owed, Veteran, Minority, or Rural Business Development.
Typical 504 Loan Structure
Financing on $1 Million Project
Entity
Lender
CDC/SBA
Borrower
Total:
Loan Amount
$500,000
$400,000 +fees
$100,000
$1,000,000
% of Project
50%
40%
10% *
100%
Security
1st Lien
2nd Lien
* Higher equity injection of 15-20% required for certain projects, such as start-ups or special purpose buildings
Additional information is available at the following websites:
www.sba.gov
U.S. Small Business Administration
www.nadco.org National Association of Development Companies
www.nwpcog.orgNorthwest Piedmont Development Corporation
Contact Your Local Certified Development Company Today!
Charles Malone
Northwest Piedmont Development Corporation
400 West Fourth Street, Suite 400
Winston-Salem, NC 27101-2805
e-mail [email protected]
telephone 336.761.2111
PAGE
22
PAGE
Governor Perdue’s Budget to Focus on Jobs and Economy
As she talked with western North Carolina economic leaders, Gov. Bev Perdue stressed that protecting and creating jobs and growing the economy will be a top priority in the budget she plans to present on Tuesday.
“We must continue to move North Carolina forward even in these challenging times. In my budget I
will make targeted investments to create jobs and prepare North Carolina to be an economic leader as
our nation recovers,” said Gov. Perdue. “Helping small businesses compete more effectively, developing our workforce, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship are all vital to a strong business
climate.”
During an economic roundtable in Asheville, Gov. Perdue announced several of the economic development initiatives that will be included in her budget:










Small Business Tax Relief: Businesses with profits less than $100,000 will be able to
exempt the first $25,000 of net income from state tax. Businesses with profits between
$100,000 and $200,000 will exempt the first $15,000.
Expand Earned Income Tax Credit: Beginning in the next calendar year, the credit
would be increased from 5% to 6.5%.
Jobs Now initiative: Gov. Perdue’s budget will invest more than $17 million in community college and vocational education courses and programs focused on job training and
preparing students for new 21st century careers.
Main Street Solutions program: Invest $7 million in the Main Street Solutions program to expand and transform this initiative into a more comprehensive economic development tool to drive regional job creation in small and medium-sized towns and cities.
One NC Small Business Fund: $2 million for small companies to match federal innovation grants.
Founder’s Credit: Establish a Founder’s Credit, which will exclude initial stock investments in certain North Carolina start-up companies from capital gains. This will encourage innovation and entrepreneurship.
Green Business Fund: $5 million for the Green Business Fund to encourage the
growth of North Carolina businesses as we seek to use fuel and other natural resources
more wisely and effectively.
Defense and Aerospace: $3 million investment for expanding North Carolina’s defense and aerospace industry to create jobs.
Destination NC: $1.5 million to brand North Carolina as a business and tourism destination.
Water/Sewer Infrastructure: More than $47 million in state funds to maximize federal resources for water and sewer and other similar infrastructure projects that support
economic growth.
Gov. Perdue announced:
*Tourism is the 3rd largest Industry in the State of N.C. after Agriculture and Forestry.
*N.C. has moved from the 7th most visited state to the 6th in the U.S.
*N.C ranks 9th in population in the U.S.
23
PAGE
24
The visitor’s center has recorded 6,868 visitors year to date. The top ten states include
NC, SC, TN, VA, GA, OH, FL, PA, WV and TX.
International visitors were recorded from Canada, India, Wales, Bangladesh, Australia,
Venezuela, Holland and Portugal.
Website Stats
The month of March the visitor’s center recorded 6,868 visitors.
Jan. 2009– Feb.2009
January
1,407,410 Hits
47,156 Unique Visits
Occupancy Tax Collection
February
1,671,211 Hits
45,051 Unique Visits
9,025 People
have
www.visitmayb
erry.com stored
as a bookmark
or entered in
directly in the
URL in the
months of Jan/
Feb 2009
The latest Occupancy Tax reports a decrease of 4.44% in the
month of December 2008 and an increase of 13.59% from the
previous year in January 2009. Year to date a decrease of
7.07% from the previous year.
TWEAT TWEAT Mount Airy is currently connecting itself with the world
through current media technology including Twitter, My
Space, Trip Advisor, Flickr, and You Tube.
EWS
N
E
H
T
ES IN
N
I
W
C
N
PAGE
In a February article, the Salt Lake Tribune journeyed through Mount
Airy, featuring Yadkin Valley wineries throughout the trip. Read the
story at
http://www.sltrib.com/travel/ci_11725165
Shelton Vineyards received the Distinguished Partners for Excellence
award in September 2008 by the State Board of Community Colleges.
Shelton Vineyards was awarded for its
partnership efforts with Surry Community College.
Calendar of Events :
Saturday May 2nd 2009 Silver Ghost Tour– Antique Rolls Royce
May 14th-16th 2009 Taxidermy Mini Course at Surry Community
College
May 22nd 2009 - Vintage BMW Tour –Vintage at the Vine. Staying
at Hampton Inn Shelton Vineyards with a Downtown meet and greet
at the Old North State Winery at 5pm.
June 9th 2009 VMCCA Chrome Glidden Tour –Car Show
August 20-23 2009 North Carolina Harley Owners Group – N.C.
State Hog Rally www.ncstatehogrally.com
September 17, 2009 Buick Driving Enthusiasts –Buick Club
www.buickclub.org/bde/
25
The Mission of the Greater
Mount Airy Chamber of
Commerce is to advance,
promote and encourage
successful business growth
for our members.
Betty Ann Collins - President
Email: [email protected]
Main Line Extension 6
Yvonne Nichols - Executive Assistant and Autumn Leaves Festival Director
Email: [email protected]
Main Line Extension 5
Jessica Icenhour - Tourism Director
Email: [email protected]
Main Line Extension 3
Robin Dollyhigh - Membership Specialist
Email: [email protected]
Main Line Extension 4
Fawn Shaw - Visitor Specialist
Email: [email protected]
Main Line
200 N. Main St. Mount Airy,
V ISIT
US ON- LINE
WWW.MTAIRYNCCHAMBER. ORG AND
WWW. VISITMAYBERRY. COM
N.C. 27030
336-786-6116 Main
336-786-1488 Fax