April 2010 - Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce

Transcription

CHAMBER
www.mtairyncchamber.org
CONNECTIONS
June 2010
There is Strength in Numbers
Over 450 Chamber Members have committed to the investment of business growth in our community.
They know that standing “together” is standing “strong” for our local economy. The Greater Mount Airy
Chamber of Commerce is stronger than ever! We are backed by an impressive board of business leaders
committed to local business growth. Programs are specifically focused on our mission… to advance, promote
and encourage successful business growth for our members!
Chamber event participation is growing! Greater Mount Airy Chamber Members know that Chamber
Networking is essential for creating new relationships and reconnecting with old ones. People use people they
know or they depend on credible sources for referrals! Networking gives businesses face to face crucial
advertising.
Our members are invested in the Chamber and in their Community. Being a Chamber member means
committing to keeping dollars here! Buy local! Support Chamber Members! These dedicated Chamber
businesses are investing in a healthy local economy. Working together in this quest is essential for the vital
growth and stability of our business community.
Chamber member businesses will not stand alone…they stand strong!
CALENDAR OF EVENTS:
MAY 20TH, 2010
Pilot Mountain Pride
Grand Opening/Business After Hours
Former Amos & Smith Hosiery Mill
West Main Street Pilot Mountain
5:30-7:00 PM
JUNE 24TH, 2010
South Data, Inc.
Open House/Business After Hours
201 Technology Lane Mount Airy
5:30-7:00 PM
MAY 27TH, 2010
SERVPRO
Business After Hours
1217 West Lebanon Street Mount Airy
5:30-7:00 PM
JULY 15, 2010
First Citizens Bank
502 North Main Street Mount Airy
5:30-7:00 PM
JUNE 3RD, 2010
Mayberry Shazzam
296 Veterans Drive Pilot Mountain
5:30-7:00 PM
IN THIS ISSUE
Our Members .................................................................................3-4
Chamber Champion and Spotlights ............................................ 6-9
Ribbon Cuttings ............................................................................ 10
Surprise Patrol . ......................................................................... 11-13
Chamber Business After Hours ............................................... 14-15
Briefs ............................................................................................... 16
Other Chamber Events .............................................................17-21
Business ....................................................................................23-26
Tourism Report ............................................................................... 27
Chamber Contact info ................................................................... 28
Page 2
THE GREATER MOUNT AIRY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • 2010 OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
Chair
Britta Needham
RBC Centura
501 North Main Street
Mount Airy, N.C. 27030
336-719-2937
336-719-2905 (fax)
[email protected]
Chair-Elect
Gary Lawrence
Mount Airy Newspapers, Inc.
319 Renfro Street
336-786-4141 • 336-789-2816 (fax)
[email protected]
Traci Hamilton
Workforce Carolina
711 Independence Blvd.
336-789-8220 • 336-789-0561
[email protected]
Raynelle Hamblin
Residential Mortgage Corp.
304 East Independence Blvd.
Suite 101
336-786-7110 • 336-786-7067 (fax)
[email protected]
Dennis Lowe
Lowe Consulting
6921 West Pine Street
Lowgap, NC 27024
336-352-3228
[email protected]
Doug Norman
The North Carolina Granite Corporation
151 Granite Quarry Trail
336-786-5141 • 336-719-2623 (fax)
[email protected]
Nick Patel
Quality Inn
2136 Rockford Street
336-789-2000 • 336-789-7917 (fax)
[email protected]
Chad Stafford
Haynes, Strand Co. PLLC
400 S. South Street
336-789-8989 • 336-789-6314 (fax)
[email protected]
Johnny Bowman
F. Rees Company
Mount Airy, NC 27030
336- 786-6121 • 336- 786-5391(fax)
[email protected]
Betty Ann Collins
Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce
200 N. Main Street
336-786-6116 • 336-786-1488 (fax)
[email protected]
David O’Neal
Leonard Buildings
566 Holy Springs Road
336- 789-5018 • 336-789-7314 (fax)
[email protected]
Thomas Greenwood
Blue Ridge Enterprises, Inc.
1120 West Lebanon Street
336-789-2134 • 336-789-3084 (fax)
[email protected]
Matthew Edwards
Mount Airy Museum of
Regional History
336- 786-4478 • 336- 786-1666 (fax)
[email protected]
Karen Hardy
Wayne Farms
802 East Atkins Street
Dobson, NC 27017
336-386-8151 • 336) 386-8822 (fax)
[email protected]
Jeff Gordon
Haynes, Strand & Co. PLLC
400 S. South Street
336-789-8989 • 336-789-6314 (fax)
[email protected]
Hugh Campbell
Gardner, Gardner & Campbell, PLLC
304 Franklin Street
336-789-8120 • 336- 789-5506 (fax)
[email protected]
CHAMBER STAFF
Betty Ann Collins
Jessica Icenhour
Yvonne Nichols
President
Director of Tourism
Executive Assistant/Festival Director
200 N. Main Street
200 N. Main Street
200 N. Main Street
Toll Free: 800-948-0949
Toll Free: 800-948-0949
Toll Free: 800-948-0949
Local: 336-786-6116 ext 6
Local: 336-786-6116
Local: 336-786-6116 ext. 5
Fax: 336-786-1488
Fax: 336-786-1488
Fax: 336-786-1488
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.visitmayberry.com
Making A Difference One Family At A Time
Dennis Thompson, County Manager
Surry County Government Center
418 Hamby Road, Suite 329
Dobson, N.C. 27017
336-401-8201 • 336-401-8216 (fax)
[email protected]
Todd Tucker, President
SCEDP
118 Hamby Road-Suite 146
Dobson, N.C. 27017
336-401-0990 • 336-401-9901 (fax)
[email protected]
Immediate Past Chair
Dr. George O. Sappenfield
Surry Community College
630 S. Main Street
Dobson, N.C. 27017
336-386-3280 • 336-386-3691 (fax)
[email protected]
Tanya Taylor
Fawn Shaw
Membership and
Visitor Receptionist
Communication Director
200 N. Main Street
Toll Free: 800-948-0949
Local: 336-786-6116 ext 4
336-786-6116
Fax: 336-786-1488
[email protected]@mtairyncchamber.org
Visit Mount Airy Chamber at
www.facebook.com
www.mtairyncchamber.org
PATTERSON
• Chrysler • Dodge • Jeep
Finding an affordable and quality vehicle these
days can be difficult; that's why the financial and
sales team at Patterson Chrysler Jeep Dodge work
together to provide you with the automobile you
desire at a price you can afford. Peruse the new
and pre-owned inventories of Chrysler, Dodge
and Jeep vehicles and find something you like!
We provide a stress-free, no-hassle and friendly
buying experience.
1-888-789-2922
Ex-Officio Board Members
Deborah Cochran, Mayor
City of Mount Airy
P.O. Box 70
336-786-3504 • 336-719-7506 (fax)
[email protected]
Stop by and visit us at
538 N. Andy Griffith Parkway • Mt. Airy, NC
to experience true customer satisfaction.
HOURS: 9am - 7pm PHONE: 336-789-8105
Combined Service for over 72 years
Patterson - Collins proudly will continue to
be your GM Approved Location for
Sales & Se
vice!
Service!
Chevrolet Buick Pontiac GMC Cadillac Subaru
“Creating Customers For Life”
2300 Rockford Street
MTt Airy, NC
789-9011
Sales Hours: M-F 8 am - 7 pm - Sat. 8 am - 5 pm Service Hours M-F 8 am - 3 pm
1st Choice Mortgage
A Cleaner World
Aaron’s Sales and Leasing
Advanced Electronics, Inc. (AT&T Retailer)
Advanced Compressor Technology, Inc.
Advanced Electronic Services, Inc.
Airmont Florist & Gift Shop
American Healthcare Services, Inc.
AmeriGas Propane LP
Animal Medical Services
Applied Copier Concepts
B & B Produce
B & L Custom Jewelers
B. M. Sumner, Jr. DDS
B.H. Tharrington Primary School
Bailey , Peoples & Oghalai Drs., PA
Barney’s Cafe
Bayada Nurses
BB&T Blue Ridge Burke
Bear Creek Gifts, LLC
Before N After Construction
Behavioral Services, Inc.
Bel-Vue Trophy
Belk Stores
Beroth Oil Company
Better Business Bureau of Northwest North Carolina
Big Sheep Communications
Blessed Blends Coffee
Blevins Workshop, Inc.
Blue Ridge CareNet Counseling Center
Blue Ridge Concrete Products, Inc.
Blue Ridge Enterprises
Blue Ridge Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, P.A.
BNI Platinum Producers
Bodet -Horst USALP
Branch Banking and Trust - Main St. M.A.
Branch Banking and Trust- Pilot Mtn
Branch Banking and Trust- Rockford St./601
Brannock & Hiatt Furniture Company
Bray’s Recapping Company
Brenda R. Lineberry, CPA, P.C.
Brown Communication
Bunn Engineering Company, P.C.
Burke Robertson & Associates, Inc
Burton Signworks, Inc.
Buttonwood Chiropractic Center
Cana Mt. Airy Florist
Canaan Land Children’s Home, INC.
Carol Burke
Carolane Propane Gas
Carolina Carports, Inc.
Carolina Connections, Inc
Carolina Environmental Contracting, Inc.
Carolina Farms and Homes (Real Estate)
Carolina West Wireless
Carolina Ziplines
Catalina Tempering
Cedar Ridge Elementary School
Central Middle School
Central States Manufacturing, Inc.
Century 21 Homestead Realty
CenturyLink
Chappell Insurance Agency, Inc.
Chelli & Associates
Childrens Center of Surry, Inc.
Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropratic
Christian Outfitters
City of Mount Airy
City to City Link dba MyeBatch.com
CK Technologies, LLC SE
Clear Channel Radio
Cloud 9 Coffee
Coca Cola Bottling Company
Collins Pest Control, Inc.
Comfort Keepers
Commercial Air Systems, Inc.
Congresswoman-Virginia Fox
ConnXctions Consultant
Consider The Word
Cooke Flooring
Cooke Rentals
Cooke Trucking Company
Copeland Elementary School
Coram, J.G. Company, Inc.
Country Additions
County of Surry
Creative Designs Flowers & Gifts
Creek Cide Cabin Rentals
Crescent Manufacturing
Cross Creek Country Club
Crossroads Behavioral Healthcare
Dairy Center
Data Publishing
Davey’s Fudge
David Hill Builders, Inc.
David Hill Builders
Day Trips & Tours
Delp Chiropractic
Dennis Lowe
DePaul Twelve Oaks
Dobson Elementary School
Dobson Optometric Eye Care, PA
Donaldson Ins. & Financial Services
Downtown Business Association
Duke Energy Carolinas
Eagle Storage, Inc.
East Surry High School
Easter Seals UCP NC and VA
Easter Transportation, Inc.
Edward Jones - Pine Street
Edward Jones - Lebanon St.
Enterprise Rent-a-Car
F. Rees Company
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
Fancy Gap Outfitters
Farm Bureau Mount Airy / Tim Hamlin
Fastlink Communications Inc.
Faw, Folger & Johnson, Attorneys
First Citizens Bank - Dobson
First Citizens Bank - Pilot Mountain
First Citizens Bank- Mt. Airy
First Southern Title Agency, Inc.
Flat Rock Elementary School
Food Lion, LLC
Foothills Cycling
Franklin Elementary School
Frontier Natural Gas
Froo Froo Pet Boutique
G & B Energy
Gardner, Gardner & Campbell, PLLC, Attorney at Law
Garson McMillian Real Estate & Auction Company, Inc.
Gary and Marianne Pruett
Gates Pharmacy
Gene Clark
Gilmer Smith Foundation
Globe Tobacco Lofts
Goin Postal
Golden Living Center
Golding Transport, Inc.
Goodwill Industries of Northwest NC, Inc.
GrahamFest
Granite City Construction Company, Inc.
Granite Development, LLC
Grassy Creek Cabooses
Greater Mount Airy Area Habitat for Humanity
Greene Finance Corporation
Griffith Auto Shop & Car Sales
Gwyn, Lucy Ellen Properties
H & H Auto Sales
H & R Block
H & W Trucking Company
H. Lee Merritt, Attorneys at Law
Hampton Inn & Suites Shelton Vineyards
Hampton Inn of Mount Airy
Hanesbrands Inc.
Harrell Oil Company
Harvest Time Bread Company of North Carolina LLC
Haynes Strand and Company, PLLC
Healthy Technologies Inc.
Henredon
Hiatt & Fawcett, Attorneys at Law, PLLC
High Cotton Interiors, LLC
High Country Springs Bottle Water
Hodges Realty
Holcomb Hardware
Holiday Inn Express & Suites
Hollows Motel, The
Homeplace Recreational Park, Inc.
Homeway Furniture Company
Hutchens Laundry and Cleaners
I-77 North Welcome Center
Imperial Images
Infinity Day Spa of Mount Airy, LLC
Inman & Sparks Realty
Insteel Industries, Inc.
Interstate Sign Company
It’s About Art!
J & B Foods, Inc. dba Aunt Bea’s BBQ
J’s HVAC Unlimited, LLC
J’s Office Supply & Etc., Inc.
J. Sam Gentry Middle School
J.C. Penney Company
J.E.B. Stuart Birthplace Preservation Trust
J.J Jones Intermediate School
Jack L. Wilson, CPA PLLC
Jack Thomas
Jani King
Jantec Neon Products
John Jackson Insurance Agency, Inc.
John L. Gravitte, DDS, PA
John S. Clark Company, LLC
Johnson Granite, Inc.
Joy Ranch Home for Children
Kelly Office Solutions
Kentucky Fried Chicken
Kidwell & Company, Inc.
Knights Inn Mayberry
Krystal S. Jones Massage Therapy LMBT NC#7769
Kyoto at the Lake III
L.S. Starrett Company
Lanier Worldwide Inc.
Leonard Buildings and Truck Accessories
Leonard’s Jewelers
Let’s ParTea with La’Teah
Liberty Business Partners
Liberty HomeCare
Lifespan
Ligon Electric Supply
Lisa’s Hallmark, Inc
Little Richards BBQ
Loftis HVAC Company, Inc.
Lonestar Steakhouse & Saloon
Lorene’s Bakery & Catering
Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse
Lowes Foods #117
Lowes Foods #143
Lydens Associates
M & M Granite, Inc.
M & M Signs, Inc.
Page 3
2010
Chamber
of
Commerce
Members
Are you a
CHANGE AGENT?
It is the10% likely…
to vote, attend
a school board
meeting, volunteer
for civic cause,
lead a church
cause, run a
company, help in a
community based
organization or
read the opinion
page in the local
newspaper…….
it’s THOSE WHO
MAKE a
DIFFERENCE!
A primary value
of the Chamber
of Commerce...
is what we know
and how we share
our organizational
knowledge.
Page 4
2010
Chamber
of
Commerce
Members
“Becoming a
member of a
Chamber of
Commerce
provides
opportunities
to give back to
the community
and capitalize on
significant member
benefits; serving
in the leadership
raises your recognition, visibility,
and credibility as
well as that of your
business.” Ivan R.
Misner, PhD and
Michelle Donovan ,
The 29% SOLUTION
“A Chamber of
Commerce
membership is
like a health club
membership…
Just because you
join, doesn’t mean
you immediately
get into shape…
You have to USE
the membership!”
Traci Hamilton,
WorkForce Carolina
Mount Airy N.C.
Mac Papers, Inc.
Main-Oak Emporium
Majure Skin Care and Wellness Center, P.A.
March of Dimes- Greater Triad Division
Marion & Son Landscaping Services, LLC
Marion’s Jewelry
Mark Appler M.D.
Master Craft Builders of Mount Airy, Inc.
Mayberry Mall
Mayberry Campground
Mayberry Carports
Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs
Mayberry Guest House
Mayberry Motor Inn
Mayberry on Main
Mayberry Pharmacy
Mayberry Shazzam
Meadowview Middle School
Mickey W. Kiger, CLU
Millennium Charter Academy
Mills, Lee Construction Company
Mister Sparky
Moody Funeral Services
Mount Airy ‘Mayberry’ Coffee Company
Mount Airy Blue Ridge Medical Group
Mount Airy City Board of Education
Mount Airy Drug, Inc.
Mount Airy Farmer’s Market
Mount Airy High School
Mount Airy Middle School
Mount Airy Museum of Regional History
Mount Airy Newspapers, Inc.
Mount Airy Ob-Gyn Center
Mount Airy Oil Company
Mount Airy Paint Store
Mount Airy Public Library
Mount Airy Rescue Squad
Mount Airy Restoration Foundation/Moore House
Mount Airy Tourism Development Authority
Mount Airy Veterinary Hospital
Mount Airy-Surry County Airport Authority
Mountain Park Elementary School
Mountain Valley Hospice & Palliative Care (Elkin)
Mountain Valley Hospice and Palliative Care (Mt. Airy)
MRI The Mayberry Group, Inc
Mullins Pawn Shop & Jewelers
NCFI Polyurethanes
Needham Construction Co. Inc.
Neighbors Stores, Inc.
Network Dynamics, Inc.
New Image Weight Loss & Wellness
Nor-Pak
North Carolina Employment Security Commission
North Carolina Granite Corporation, The
North Surry High School
Northern Hospital of Surry County
Northwest Medical Partners/Pro Health Center
OfficeVision, Inc.
Old North State Winery
Olde Mill
Olde Mill Music
Opie’s Candy Store
Pages Books & Coffee
Papa Johns Pizza
Paradigm Financial Group, Inc.
Parkway Neurology, PLLC
Parrish Tire Company
Patterson Associates, Inc.
Patterson Automotive, Inc.
Patterson, Inc.
PC Needs, Inc.
PCI Communications
Pepsi Bottling Ventures
Perkins & Associates Financial Group
Pet Stop of the Foothills
Phillips Motors Company
Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation
Piedmont Companies
Piedmont Hematology Oncology Associates, PLLC
Piedmont Triad Computer Consulting, Inc.
Pike Electric, Inc.
Pilot Knob Inn Bed and Breakfast
Pilot Knob Park Country Club
Pilot Mountain Middle School
Pine State Marketing, Inc.
Pioneer Printing Company
Premium Tobacco Company U.S., Inc.
Primland Resort
Professional Networks, Inc.
Quality Inn & Suites
Quality Inn
Quality Termite & Pest Control
Raynelle Hamblin
RBC Bank
RBC Bank
Realty World/Brantley & Associates
Reeves Community Center
Renfro Corporation
Reynolds Homestead Continuing Ed Center
Richards, Dr. Swanson
RidgeCrest Retirement LLC
Riverside Building Supply
Rock Solid Dimensional Stone, Inc.
Rockford Digestive Health Specialists, P.A.
Rockford Inn Bed & Breakfast, The
Rogers Realty and Auction Company, Inc.
Rolling Hills Farms
Round Peak Vineyards
Sagebrush Steakhouse Restaurant
SageSport
Sam’s Club
Samet, Payne, Wood, Horton & Company
Sand Dollar Productions
Sanders Electric Company, Inc.
Sawyers & Sawyers Accounting Services
SB&T Insurance
Scarlet Begonias
Scenic Motors
Scenic Overlook Bed & Breakfast
Security Financial Services
Sela Building Corporation
Select Real Estate, LLC
SERVPRO
Sheets Warehousing and Storage Rentals
Shelton Vineyards
Shoals Elementary School
Simmons, Dean DDS PA
Skyline Memory Gardens
Smith & Smith, DDS
Smith Auto Parts
Smith-Rowe, Inc.
Snappy Lunch
Snow Mountain Properties
Sobotta Manor Bed & Breakfast
Something Different on Main, Inc.
Sonbert Security Systems, INC
SouthData, Inc.
Southern Community Bank & Trust
Specialty Gifts, LLC - The Mayberry Collectors Center
Squad Car Tours
State Employees’ Credit Union
State Farm Insurance Company (GE)
State Farm Insurance Company (SG)
Surrey Bank & Trust
Surrey Emporium
Surrey Investment Services
Surry Animal Hospital, PA
Surry Arts Council
Surry Center - NC Cooperative Extension Service
Surry Central High School
Surry Chemicals
Surry Community College
Surry County Board of Education
Surry County Chapter American Red Cross
Surry County Economic Development Partnership, Inc.
Surry County Historical Society
Surry County Senior Services
Surry Friends of Youth
Surry Inn Sarang, Inc.
Surry Insurance
Surry Port-a-John Service, Inc.
Surry SCAN (Stop Child Abuse Now)
Surry Telephone/Internet
Surry Yadkin Electric Membership Corporation
Surry-Yadkin Residential Services, Inc
Sylvan Learning Center
T-N-T Carports, Inc.
T.P. Supply, Inc.
T.W. Signs & Graphics
Talley’s Custom Frame & Gallery
Tammy M. McCrary Licensed Massage & Bodywork
Therapist NC#7779
Terminix
The Data Center Inc./Yadtel Networks
The Fruit Basket
The Gallery Group & Art Studio Inc
The Joan & Howard Woltz Hospice Home
The Optical Place, Inc.
This ‘N That
This Olde Place Antiques & Collectibles
Thomas House Bed & Breakfast
Thunder Road Museum
Time Systems Inc.
Titans of Taste
Toshiba Business Solutions
Total Communications Systems and Solutions
Tourism Partnership of Surry County
Town and Country Realty and Construction
Transportation Services Co. Inc
Tri-County Orthopedic & Sports Medicine, PA
Triad Relocation Guide
United Fund of Surry, Inc
United Processing Co.
US Army
Video Works of North Carolina, INC
Wachovia Bank
Wal-Mart Stores
Wally’s Pharmacy
Waste Management Mount Airy
Wayne Farms
We Care Concessions
Webb Interiors
Westfield Elementary School
Westfield Kennel’s
What’s Needlin’ Ewe, LLC
White Plains Elementary School
WIFM
Winding Creek Design
Window World of the Foothills
Winston Salem DASH
Winston-Salem Journal
Wolf Creek Farm
Woltz, Edwin Attorney at Law
Wood’s TV, Inc.
Wordsprint, Inc.
Workforce Carolina
WPAQ Radio
Yadkin Valley Cabinet Company, INC
Yadkin Valley Wine Trail
YVEDDI
Zach Blackmon Jr.
Winding Creek Design- Physical address: 131 Poppys Path Lane Mount
Airy, NC 27030; mailing address PO Box 282 Mount Airy NC 27030. Office
phone 336-719-2254, cell 336-648-7219 or
visit www.windingcreekdesign.com.
Main Contac:t Glenn Springthorpe
Blue Ridge CareNet Counseling Center – Located at 131 West
Lebanon Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone 336-786-1922 or
visit www.blueridgecarenetcounseling.org
Main Contact: Joseph Alexander
Pages Books & Coffee – Located at 235 North Main Street Mount Airy,
NC 27030. Phone 336-789-3363.
Owners: Scott and Sandy Gwyn
Holiday Inn Express & Suites– Located at 1320 EMS Drive Mount Airy,
NC 27030. Phone 336-719-1731
or visit www.hiexpress.com/mountairyncc
The General Manager is Trudy Willard.
The Joan & Howard Woltz Hospice Home – Physically located at
945 Zephyr Road Dobson, NC. 27017 Phone 336-356-5000.
Mountain Valley Hospice & Palliative Care Elkin – Physically
located at 688 Bridge Street, Elkin NC. 28621. Phone 336-526-2650.
***Both of these locations are under the umbrella of Mount Valley Hospice &
Palliative Care located at 401 Technology Lane Mount Airy, NC 27030
Main Contacts: Denise Watson Executive Director and Sheila Jones
Director of Development
Easter Transportation, Inc. - Located at 161 Peru Lane Mount Airy, NC
27030. Phone 336.374.3106. Terry Guynn is President and Easter Transportation Inc. specializes in flatbed trucking.
High Country Springs Bottle Water – Located at 2322 NC 268 Pilot
Mountain, NC 27041. Phone 336-374-7474 or visit www.highcountrysprings.
com. Adam Tucker is a Partner and Vince Gorneault is in sales.
Let’s ParTea with La ’Teah – Located at 1238 Flippin Road Mount Airy,
NC 27030. Phone 336-351-5287 or 336-325-7028 or
visit www.letspartea.info. Owner La’Teah Santucci.
Griffith Auto Shop & Car Sales – Located at 796 Fannie Simmons Road
Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone 336-324-8332. Owner: William Griffith.
State Farm Insurance Company – Located at 1207 West Lebanon
Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone 336-789-8893
or visit www.statefarm.com.
Carol Burke - Associate Member (336) 786-5155
1st Choice Mortgage – Located at 2037 Rockford Street Mount Airy, NC
27030. Phone 336-786-7900.
Main Contact- Justin Moore
Catalina Tempering, Inc. – Located at 630 Derby Street Mount Airy,
NC 27030 Phone 336.719.6857 or visit www.catalinatempering.com.
Main Contact: Todd French
Mount Airy Blue Ridge Medical Group – Located at 905 Rockford
Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone 336.719.2440 or
visit www.blueridgemd.com Main Contact: Pam Vybiral
Scarlet Begonias – Located at 433 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC
27030. Phone 336.789.9001 or visit www.scarletbegonias.com.
Owner: Amy Slate
New Image Weight Loss & Wellness - Located at 1008 Old
Rockford Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone (336) 719-0400.
Main Contact: Jeanie Rhyne
Christian Outfitters, Inc. – Located at 279 Hickory Street Suite 400
Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone (336) 786-1844 or
visit www.christianoutfitters.com.
Main Contact: Brian Tilley
Connxtions Consultant –Grant Consultant/Graphic Printer/Overhead Design Located at 110 South Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030.
Phone (336) 239-1450. Main Contact: Karen Perkins-Biscoe
Surrey Emporium –Antique Mall and Collectibles - Located at
220 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone (336) 786- 4398 or visit
[email protected]. Owned and operated by Claudia Stowers,
Central States Manufacturing, Inc. – Construction is underway at 751
Mountain View Lane Mount Airy, NC 27030. Charlie Cox is the General Manager of Operations here in Mount Airy. For more information
visit www.centralstatesmfg.com.
Krystal S. Jones Massage Therapy #7769 – Located at 304 East
Independence Boulevard Suite 100 Mount Airy, NC 27030.
Phone (336) 710-8190 or visit www.amtamembers.com/KrystalStarJones/ or
[email protected].
Easter Seals UCP NC and VA – Located at 414 West Lebanon Street
Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone (336) 789-9492 or visit www.nc.easterseals.com
Main Contact: Kathy McGuire
Page 5
Please
help
us
welcome
our new
2010
Chamber
Members!
The DataCenter Inc./Yadtel Networks – Communication and business
phone needs - Located at 1421 Courtney-Huntsville Road Yadkinville, NC
27055. Phone (336) 463-5075 or visit www.yadtelnetworks.com.
Main Contact: Barbara Gentry
Bayada Nurses – Comprehensive Home Health Care Services - Located
at 1814 North Bridge Street Elkin, NC 28621. Phone (336) 835-8500 or visit
www.bayada.com. Main Contact: Allison Swisher
Reynolds Homestead Continuing Education Center –Virginia
Tech Continuing Education Center - Located at 463 Homestead Lane
Critz, VA 24082. Phone (276) 694-7181 or
visit www.reynoldshemestead.vt.edu. Main Contact: Kay Dunkley
Bear Creek Gifts, LLC –Gift Shop - Located at 165 North
Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone (336) 786-6602.
Main Contact: Jerry Caudle
Tammy M. McCrary, Licensed Massage & Bodywork Therapist
#7779 – Located at 304 East Independence Blvd Mount Airy, NC 27030.
Phone (336) 403-8213 or contact Tammy at [email protected].
Rolling Hills Farms Inc. – Orchard - Located at 252
Heart Lane Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone (336) 352-3009.
Owners: Randy and Angela Shur Mount Airy Farmer’s Market – Tue/Thurs May-Oct 3:30-6 218 Rockford
Street, Andy Griffith Playhouse Parking Lot (336) 745-5166.
Main Contact- Randy Shur
Applied Copier Concepts – Located at 4260 Piedmont Parkway Suite
105, Greensboro, N.C. 27410 (336) 544-1986. www.digitalacc.com
Main Contact Shannon Pegram 336-671-3322
Titans of Taste, LLC – Located at 1104 Holly Springs Road Mount Airy,
NC 27030 (336)-710-7313 or (336) 756-0680 www.titansoftaste.com
Main Contact Danny Speer
Visit us on
www.facebook.com
under Mount Airy
Chamber.
Add us as a friend or
sign up as a fan
to receive updates!
We have over 300
hits to our page
a week.
Visit us today and
help us spread the
word about our
Greater
Mount Airy
Chamber of
Commerce
Businesses!
Page 6
CHAMBER CHAMPION!
T r av i s S i z e m o re - Fo o d L i o n
Food Lion was a new member in 2009 and has jumped in committed to make a difference in
this community! Travis Sizemore, Store Manager, was more than ready to jump in and help at
our first ever speed networking event. Travis and Food Lion supplied deli and veggie trays to
our event. “Trays for the Holidays” is a campaign Food Lion is highlighting this Christmas and
New Year holiday season. Do you have a party to attend? Do you have a special customer that
you would like to thank? Send a Holiday Tray from Food Lion this Season!
When visiting Travis and the staff at Food Lion, I couldn’t help but notice the customers that
kept coming up to Travis and shaking his hand! Travis knew each name without hesitation introducing them as a regular customer of Food Lion! Now that is personal service! The friendly
staff at the Food Lion on 1215 West Lebanon Street is surely something you do not want to
miss!
I arrived at Food Lion to congratulate him and
present him with his medal on being our newest
Chamber Champion! Travis was very excited
and was very thankful. He admitted that he had
a complete misconception of what the Chamber
was all about. He went on to say that he realizes
that Chamber involvement can benefit anyone’s
business and plans to be even more involved in
the future! Travis Said, “There is so much poten-
tial and room to grow with the Chamber of
Commerce! The individuals and companies
I have met have been so welcoming.
The members seem to get so much enjoyment out of the events and still everyone
knows that they are there to promote their
business. I am proud that Food Lion
decided to be a part of the Chamber. The
return on your investment is worth it.”
Food Lion is and will continue to be your
community grocery store. Come out to your
Lebanon Street Food Lion and let Travis
and his wonderful staff welcome you!
Food Lion
336-789-7887
www.foodlion.com
CHAMBER SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Ben Cooke with Cooke Rentals, Inc.
If you have been to any main event in Mount Airy, chances are Ben Cooke, Manager of Cooke
Rentals Inc. has participated in some way. Whether behind the scenes setting up tables and tents
or serving on a committee, Ben takes pride in being involved in this community. Ben not only is
an asset to the Chamber but he is also involved with the Rotary, is on the board of the City Parks
and Recreation, the board of the Mount Airy Sports Hall of Fame and is the Regional Director
for the American Rental Association. In his spare time he can be found on the side lines of the
Mount Airy Football team where he donates his time as an assistant.
Cooke Rentals Inc. has been a business leader in this community since 1973. Owner Byron
Cooke, now has several locations including Denver and Cornelius N.C. which are managed
by brothers Chad and Andy Cooke. Ben
came back to the family business in 1998 to
manage the original Mount Airy location.
Cooke Rentals is located on Lebanon Street
housing a large rental inventory of tools and
equipment for do-it-yourselfers and general
contractors. The diverse equipment rental
inventory is also available for sale.
Are you planning a Christmas or Holiday
get together event? Cooke Rentals Inc.
offers all your party event planning needs.
Whether you need china, glassware, tables
and tents for a large event… or just a
few extra bowls for a Christmas dinner,
Cooke Rentals Inc. can accommodate your
requests!
On site is a recycling center for cardboard, glass, plastic and aluminum. The
money collected from aluminum donations
are donated to the local Foothills Food
Pantry. The recycling center is a service
that Cooke Rentals Inc. provides to the
community and to its customers. Cooke
Rentals Inc. also provides a waste management service for their customers.
Give Cooke Rentals Inc. a call for your next big project or event!
Cooke Rentals Inc.
336.789.5068
www.cookerentals.com
HIGHLIGHTING...
Crescent Manufacturing, Inc.
Crescent Manufacturing, Inc. began operations in October 2006 and manufacturers Crescent Wood
Chip Trailers, Live Floor Trailers, Inwoods Trailers Agriculture Trailers, Belt Trailers, Tri-Axle Heavy
Duty Trailers, Truck Bodies and Containers.
Whether it is for transporting forestry, agricultural or other bulk materials, with over 35 years of industry experience your choice of trailer, truck body or container can be customized to meet your specific
need.
Crescent also repairs all make trailers, truck bodies and containers including dry freight and refrigerated.
Call for a free estimate. We welcome the opportunity to work with you!
Crescent Manufacturing, Inc.
Located at 316 Nelson Street Pilot Mountain, N.C. 27041.
Phone 336-368-2322 or visit www.crescentmfginc.com
Getting to Know You!
S P O T L I G H T
Page 7
Andrew Gibbons - Carolina Farms & Homes
We just love to see Andrew come by to visit when he makes his rounds to drop off the most current issue of the Farms & Homes Journal! Andrew is a
great guy with great values and an incredible positive attitude! You always come away with a motivated refreshed outlook after talking with Andrew. He
recently has experienced a new focus in life after spending what he says “many years burning candles from both ends”. He now maintains a focus on family, friends, health and staying connected with a purpose. He uses that focus with his family and business. “Be intentional by knowing what you want and
need, then stick to the plan.” Andrew said. He is husband to Christina and father to FIVE children; Zak 20, Aaron 18, Abby 15, Lydia 12, and Anna 7! I
asked what his secret to success to a large family with five children was, as many of us struggle with time having a small family. Andrew says “It is a must
that you stay connected. It is important to help children identify their purpose because pressures are tough. Along the way give them responsibilities, faith,
encouragement, love and attention. After that it is up to them to take the tools and lessons and apply them.”
Andrew has been a wonderful Chamber member and attends many functions as well as hosting his own Business After Hours. He is also a part of the
Business Development Committee and loves familiarizing himself with the county and its needs. He says he uses the Chamber to network and build relationships. “People use businesses they know and recognize. By delivering the journals, and using face to face contact and participating in Chamber functions they may remember me when
buying or selling a home.” Andrew contributes his repeat business to honesty and integrity. Carolina Farms & Homes has built a relationship with their customers through face to face contact.
They were also one of the first real estate firms in the region to take advantage of internet technology with two of its agents pioneering the use of virtual tours for area properties. The creation
of the Farms & Homes Journal has become a successful marketing tool for what they have to offer. Carolina Farms & Homes specializes in listing and selling farms, land and country homes
in a 15 county area from the Triad to the Mountains. This year Carolina Farms & Homes also celebrated their 25th anniversary.
Andrew Gibbons grew up in Mount Airy and graduated in 1983 and moved to Massachusetts to attend school. He moved back to Mount Airy in 1996. After several years in sales with
EnviroPro USA, he had a conversation with Bryant Brantley who suggested he attend Real Estate School. Upon completion of Real Estate School he joined Carolina Farms & Homes in 2001.
After realizing the incredible foundation Al Engler had created, Andrew Gibbons, Ellen Peric, and Leon Inman became partners in the firm. In September of this year, when Al Engler stepped
down, Andrew took on his new leadership role as President of Carolina Farms & Homes.
Whether you are looking for land with rolling pastures, streams or woodlands, scenic mountains or even a horse farm, Andrew Gibbons with Carolina Farms & Homes can help you find your
dream! Carolina Farms & Homes will be having an open house on Dec. 18th from 11:30 am -2:00 pm and hopes that you can come by and share a few minutes with the Carolina Farms &
Homes family.
ONLINE JOURNAL AVAILABLE NOW! http://www.carolinafarms.com/journals/f&H_journal_17-web.pdf
CAROLINA FARMS & HOMES
108 S. Davis Street, Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
336-368-9472 office • 866-752-4677 fax • 336-469-0022 cell
www.carolinafarms.com
Lavon Mathews - Comfort Keepers
You have seen her at several Business After Hours, our Chamber Surprise Patrol visits, and she helped at last year’s Speed Networking event as our handy
time keeper, bell ringer and tambourine banger! She became an Ambassador in the middle of the year and we have no idea what we have done without her
in the past! We have tremendously enjoyed Lavon at every event! With a bubbly personality, a hometown smile and a passion for what she does, you walk
away from her with a sense of what Mount Airy is all about!
Lavon Mathews grew up in Mount Airy in the Siloam area. She calls herself a small town girl that has spent her share time in the local tobacco fields
and working in local manufacturing. She and her children moved to New England with her new love and soul mate Ron Mathews. While in New England,
she was a Manufacturing Manager for Welch Fluorocarbon. Lavon is proud of her 4 children; Joseph Randall Wood 31, Christopher Mathews 27, Michael
Mathews 25, Tina Maine 24, and her two Grandchildren; Blake Wood 10 and Sarah Maine 2. After her children were grown she and Ron decided there was
no place like Mount Airy! Mount Airy is home!
Lavon has been with Comfort Keepers for two years as their Operations Manager. She worked briefly in New England for a facility and felt there had to be
a better and more comfortable way to care for clients in the comfort of their own home. When she found Comfort Keepers, locally owned by Andy Cooper, she knew she had found her calling.
Lavon says, “It is a rewarding experience for me that I can make a difference. When I see a client smile I know we have contributed to their happiness and well being. We offer companionship
and provide personal care. They become our friends and we become someone that they can trust. Clients want to keep their independence for as long as they can… we respect that and support
them in their independent living.”
Comfort Keepers is an insured and bonded In Home Health that focuses on Interactive caregiving that helps keep people happier and healthier at home, as a more dignified option, improving
their quality of life. Comfort Keepers takes everyday opportunities to communicate and keep their clients engaged in an active lifestyle. They provide all personal care services, companionship services, Respite care and transportation as well as home safety solutions. They also offer Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS). Homemaker and Home Health Aide (H/HHA)
through the Veterans Administration Home and Community based program is also offered.
Comfort Keepers is located in Mount Airy, Winston Salem and now Galax, Virginia servicing Forsyth, Stokes and Surry County in NC and Carroll, Grayson and Patrick Counties in VA. Call
Lavon Mathews to find out more about Comfort Keepers!
New Office Location!
Comfort Keepers
319 S. Main Street, Mt Airy NC, 27030 • Located in the back lower level of the Old Hollingsworth House (Same building as Carolina Connections)
Toll Free 1-888-834-2525
http://www.oxiem.com/flipbook/ck/
www.comfortkeepers.com
Page 8
S P O T L I G H T
Augusta Carroll - Insteel Industries, Inc.
Augusta Carroll with Insteel Industries is a young, energetic, North Carolina State University Alumni relocated to Mount Airy upon taking a
position with Insteel as a Structural Mesh Conversion Engineer. She has always had an interest in Math and Science which led her to major in Civil
Engineering with a specialty in structures. “I get satisfaction in having a direct impact on the world around me by having a hand in designing the
bridges and buildings that so many people use every day.” Augusta says that she works with a wonderful group of people that have become her
“second-family”.
Augusta has attended some of the Greater Mount Airy Business After Hours representing Insteel Industries, Inc. Mount Airy was an unfamiliar
town for her and by being involved in the Chamber she has learned a lot about the community, the businesses and the people that work here. She
feels it is important that Insteel is a prominent member of our community. “You can never underestimate the power of word of mouth when it comes
to business”. “I have met so many new people and becoming involved in the community has helped me transition into calling Mt. Airy home.”,
says Augusta. Augusta grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina. Her parents are Peter and Diana Carroll still of Raleigh. Her sister Suzannah attends
East Carolina University. Augusta enjoys sports and being outdoors, traveling and music. She likes the slower pace of Mt. Airy and believes that Mt
Arians take pride in caring for each other.
Insteel Industries, Inc. is one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of steel wire reinforcing products for concrete construction applications, and manufactures and markets prestressed concrete strand and welded wire reinforcement, including concrete pipe reinforcement, engineered structural mesh and standard welded wire reinforcement. Products are sold primarily to manufacturers of concrete products that are used in nonresidential construction. Approximately 440 employees work at Insteel facilities located in Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, North Carolina,
Tennessee, and Texas. Insteel is constantly working to promote the use of wire reinforcement products in the construction industry. Several State Department of Transportation are realizing the
many benefits of incorporating Insteel products into standard designs.
Augusta is currently working toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer in NC and hopes to accomplish that this year!
Insteel Industries, Inc.
1373 Boggs Drive
www.insteel.com
T.J. Bledsoe - Wachovia Bank, A Wells Fargo Company
When T.J. Bledsoe showed up for his first Chamber event we just absolutely fell head over heels for his great personality! We told him that he could not go
anywhere that we were going to keep him...period! We have also recruited him as one of our New Chamber Ambassadors for 2010!
T. J. Bledsoe is truly an Ambassador not only for the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce, but for this community! T.J. is the Treasurer, the Finance
Committee Chair and Executive Board Member for Habitat for Humanity. He is on the board for the Knights Athletic Club, contributes to outdoor conservation
groups, has coached little league football and tee ball and volunteers for the Surry County Schools….wow!
T.J. grew up in Dobson, N.C. and went to Surry Central High School. He also attended Surry Community College. During college he started a successful landscaping business and helped his father in insurance at night. He eventually sold his landscaping business and became an insurance contractor for his
father’s company, Bledsoe and Associates. This is also where he got into financial services. He got an opportunity to get into the banking industry in 2009
and has been very pleased with his transition. He is now a personal banker with Wachovia Bank in the Elkin Village. He handles new accounts, financial
reviews, loans and small commercial business accounts. He is proud to say that Wachovia has been #1 in Customer Service Satisfaction for 9 years running.
“Small Business is a focus of Wachovia for 2010. Wachovia’s Vision is to satisfy all their customers’ financial needs. In these economic times individuals and
businesses are seeing challenges. They can rely on Wachovia to be there for the long haul. We are financially stable and are lending. Now more than ever we can help our community succeed
financially.” The Current Merger of Wachovia and Wells Fargo provides a diverse portfolio of products to offer to clients.
T.J. contributes his success ultimately to God, to his father Tim Bledsoe for teaching him business ethics and to his wife Amanda for her support. He also feels that he has learned from other
seasoned business professionals in the community. He feels it is important to promote other businesses in the area which is why he is involved with the Chamber of Commerce. “It also gives
me an avenue to network, while showing my clients that I am committed and interested in the well being of this Community. I have traveled a lot in the past and there is no better place to be
than Surry County!”
If you have a financial need, give T.J. Bledsoe a call to help you plan your financial future!
Wachovia Bank
A Wells Fargo Company
(336) 786-0500
www.wachovia.com
S P O T L I G H T
Page 9
Steve Hutson - Mister Sparky
“Hey Ya’ll, I’m Steve with Mister Sparky. We are “America’s On-Time Electrician”, and I am reeeeeeeal good at fixing your “shorts”… I’m talking
about the kind where you let your son-in-law fix something and it hasn’t worked right since...Well, you don’t have to put up with all that malarkey...you
just need to call 1-888-8SPARKY….AND WE’LL GET’ER DONE!
If you have been to our networking night, a business after hours, or a BNI meeting you may have heard Steve and his HILARIOUS networking commercial! Yes he is funny... and memorable...but, VERY serious about the quality he provides.
Steve uses himself to market his company. He uses organizations such as the Chamber and BNI to give his business visibility and allows him to promote
his company. “It is hard at first to learn how to network, but then it gets easier. You get comfortable and begin to build trust and relationships...then hopefully they will remember me when they need electrical service. Networking is very cost effective for anyone’s business.” says Steve.
Steve grew up in Mount Airy and has lived here all his life. He currently lives in Ararat, N.C. Steve has never known any other career. His father, Bobby,
worked in the electrical industry and started Hutson Electric in 1975. Steve began working with his father full time in 1978 learning the ropes at age 18.
His father retired in 1996 and Steve bought the company. In 2006 Hutson Electric, Inc. was awarded the first Mister Sparky franchise in NC, being the 13th franchise nationwide as Hutson
Electric, Inc. dba Mister Sparky. There are now more than 110 Mister Sparky franchises throughout the United States.
Steve gets tremendous satisfaction from making someone’s home safe and feels a sense of reward when he leaves. He feels that he is contributing to the quality of life in Mount Airy. He
tries to set Mount Airy’s best foot forward. He connects with those that are moving to town and is able to provide them with a safe, high quality professional service. Steve feels it is important
to be a part of the community and support other businesses. By supporting local businesses it creates trust, strength and cohesiveness within our business community. Steve says that is the
best thing we can do for our local economy.Mister Sparky focuses on safety, confidentiality and commitment. All employees have been drug tested and background checked. All information
received from clients is kept confidential. Check this out… They are on time or your repair is free! Mister Sparky can help with all your residential and small commercial service & repair
projects such as panel boxes, recess lighting, dimmers, ceiling fans, swimming pools, hot tubs, tanning beds, generators, surge protection, landscape lighting...all your electrical needs.
If you would like to make your home or small business more valuable, convenient, safe to live or do business in...call Steve Hutson with Mister Sparky at 374-5213 and his team will
“GET’ER DONE!”
Mister Sparky, “America’s On-Time Electrician”
109 Autumn Wings Trail
Ararat, N.C. 27007
336-374-5216
www.mistersparky.com
Scott Kniskern - Rogers Realty
You know him with many diverse talents…. A tennis coach… A baby in a diaper… A beautiful woman singer in a dress… And a queen. He has even been known
to serenade a few pretty ladies…or so I have heard! To the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce he is considered an incredible asset! Our Chamber Ambassadors are true gems but, Scott Kniskern, also our Ambassador of the year, with Rogers Realty, goes above and beyond…seriously! He is ready and willing to give
back to the Chamber always asking “Ok…what is it that I have to dress up as this time?” You have seen him helping check in and greeting guests at many events as
well as traveling with the Chamber Surprise Patrol. We can always count on him to attend ribbon cuttings and open houses ready to celebrate growth in our business
community!
“Being involved in the Chamber and the community allows me to give back to a community that I am fortunate to be a part of. It also helps gets my name out there
in the hopes that if anyone has real estate needs that they will consider allowing me to assist them.” Scott knows and understands that business networking is the
key. He believes that the Chamber brings businesses together benefitting our community as a whole.
Scott works with Rogers Realty and Auction Company, Inc. The firm has been in business since 1964 serving many professional and private clients. Rogers Realty is multifaceted selling homes, subdivisions, commercial buildings, land, investment properties, motel and condominiums. Rogers Realty also provides auction
marketing services, real estate brokerage, and valuation services. Scott loves meeting new people and having opportunities to work with them. Every day brings a
new challenge which he feels keeps him on his toes.
Scott grew up in Mount Airy. He is son to Gary and Linda Kniskern and Terry and Ginny Collins. He contributes his success to his parents who have been very supportive. Scott believes
he developed his outgoing personality from his parents. After graduating from North Surry, he attended UNC-Greensboro where he graduated in 1997 with a degree in Recreation Management
and a minor in Sociology. After college, he spent about 6 years working at various country clubs in NC as a tennis professional. When deciding to get into business, he worked several years
in banking and then hotel sales. Not having found his niche, he moved to Philadelphia and took a position with the United States Tennis Association. While there, he went back to school and
received his M.B.A. Scott also met his lovely wife Andrea, who is from Philadelphia. Scott and Andrea decided to move back to Mount Airy where he began his career in real estate. Scott and
Andrea have just announced they are expecting a new addition to the family in a few months…Congratulations!
Scott also attends Grace Moravian Church where he serves on the Christian Education Committee, teaches Sunday school and serves as one of the youth leaders. In addition to being a
Chamber Ambassador and serving on several other Chamber committees, he also is a member of Surry Sunrise Rotary and volunteers with the United Fund and Habitat For Humanity. For
the last three years he has coached the Mount Airy Lady Bears tennis team. Scott also serves on the Mount Airy Parks and Recreation Commission and the Greater Mount Airy Sports Hall of
Fame.
Scott is truly an asset to the Chamber as well as to this community. Thank you Scott for all that you do! If you have real estate needs give Scott a call to see how he can help you!
Rogers Realty & Auction Co., Inc.
Office: (336) 789-2926 • Fax: (336) 789-2310
[email protected] • www.rogersrealty.com
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Ribbon Cuttin
and Open House
Page 10
Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropractic
A Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held on Friday March 12, 2010 at 1:00pm at Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropractic located at 639 Independence
Boulevard in the New Market Crossing Center. A new state of the art facility, conveniently located, and a new name……Choice Physical Therapy &
Chiropractic…..Owner Casey Vedder, Physical Therapist and partner Leslie Stoklosa, DC MS …could not be happier with the new office. A crowd of
about 40 were in attendance at the Ribbon Cutting despite the rainy weather. Guests and Chamber members were invited into the new facility that is
very open and spacious; providing additional patient rooms and examining rooms with a huge exercise/therapy area that opens to a view of the greenway!
Physical Therapist, Casey Vedder and Leslie Stoklosa, DC MS hosted an Open House at their new office on Thursday March 18th. Family, friends,
patients and fellow Chamber Members were on hand for the Open House to congratulate Casey and Dr. Leslie and the other staff members on their
new state of the art facility! It was a packed house with over 120 people in attendance enjoying wonderful food and fellowship with the staff. The new
facility is convenient, easily accessible and very welcoming with the huge glass front. Customized to fit the needs of Casey and Dr. Leslie the new
space offers additional examining rooms, patient rooms and a wonderful rehabilitation area in the back of the facility that opens facing the Emily Taylor
Greenway. We understand that Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropractic had the most customers ever in the month of March! Congratulations to Casey and Dr. Leslie and the Choice staff on your
new location …we wish you much success!
Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropractic provides compassionate one-on-one care, tailored to meet client needs. Centers of Excellence include; Back and Neck Pain, Fall Prevention, Orthopedic Services and Industrial Rehabilitation. Services Offered are Physical Therapy Services and Chiropractic Services. Office hours are 8:00am – 5:00pm Monday through Friday.
Call Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropractic….. the right choice for the care you deserve!
Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropractic - The Right Choice for the Care You Deserve
639 Independence Blvd. • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-783-9400
A Ribbon Cutting and Open House was held on Friday, March 26th at 1:00 pm at Christian Outfitters, located at 279 Hickory Street Suite 400 of the
Commercial Offices of Sheets Storage and Warehousing. Despite the cold, breezy, and rainy day, it was a great turnout for the ribbon cutting celebration. Preceding the ceremony, WPAQ was set up with a live remote to broadcast the open house event. Visitors were welcomed with refreshments and
door prize opportunities. Brian Tilley is the Manager of Christian Outfitters. President Roger McCasland could not be present for the occasion. Commissioner Teresa Lewis cut the ribbon made of specialty themed ties sold at the store. After the ceremony, Brian entertained some of the guest Chamber
Members with a little game of Let’s make a Deal! Billie Goins with Wachovia held out to the very end with her box of moon pies that ended up being
her very own pair of bunny ears just in time for Easter! All the participants left with a door prize such as blankets, jewelry, and shirts from Christian
Outfitters! An exciting time was had by all! Thank you Brian! Christian Outfitters, Inc. offers wholesale and retail Christian themed apparel and ties,
study materials, gifts, and children’s activities to fundraising organizations, gospel groups and the general public. Come in and pick a shirt and a transfer. Brian will create your custom shirt on site for you to take home the same day. If you are looking for something creative for your next church event...
for any age group, give Brian Tilley with Christian Outfitters a call!
279 Hickory Street Suite 400 • Mount Airy, N.C. 27030
336-786-1844
www.christianoutfitters.com
On Thursday April 15, 2010 at 5:15pm the Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites located at 1320 EMS
Drive in Mount Airy. The ceremony was officiated by Mount Airy Mayor Deborah Cochran, Mount Airy City Commissioners Dean Brown and Steve
Yokeley, Harvey Aman Owner/Developer and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, General Manager Trudy Willard. A large crowd gathered at the main
entrance into the new four story hotel that opened December 2009. Following the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony the Holiday Inn Express & Suites hosted a
Grand Opening Event that was attended by over 175 + people… an incredible turnout of Chamber Members, special guests, some of the contractors and
service providers for the Hotel were welcomed and greeted by visiting Holiday Inn Express & Suites Managers from other cities and states. Tours of the
four-floor Hotel and its amenities were given and guests were served wines from Old North State and invited to sample the delicious buffet of appetizers furnished by Sagebrush Steakhouse. Chamber Chair Britta Needham welcomed everyone to the event and after a short program with introductions
and a few words from Owner/Developer Harvey Aman and General Manager Trudy Willard we preceded to the drawing for door prizes….fantastic
door prizes....a flat screen TV, a basket filled with Holiday Inn Spa merchandise and an overnight stay in the luxury suite were just some of the prizes given away! At the end of the evening a
special cash donation presentation was made to the Foothills Food Pantry from the local Holiday Inn Express & Suites. It was an incredible evening that exceeded everyone’s expectations and it
was enjoyed by all who attended. Mount Airy is very lucky to have this new Holiday Inn Express & Suites as part of our community! We wish them much success and look forward to working
with them this year and in years to come!
1320 EMS Drive • Mount Airy, NC 27030
877-856-7815 • 336-719-1731
http://www.hiexpress.com/mountairync
CHAMBER SURPRISE PATROL
Page 11
Visits The Quality Inn
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to the Quality Inn located at 2136 Rockford Street Mount Airy, NC on Tuesday October 20, 2009.
The Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived with balloons, a box of cookies and a basket of candy for Nick Patel and his staff. The hotel lobby quickly filled up with
members of the Chamber Surprise Patrol and we had to make room for the guests who were checking in. Nick was surprised and grateful for the Chamber Surprise Patrol recognizing him and the Quality Inn for being such supportive members! Nick and staff, thank you for all that you do to help promote and support
our community!
This Quality Inn offers full-service amenities and features, including a free continental breakfast and free coffee and cappuccino. Guests will enjoy relaxing in the seasonal outdoor pool. Business travelers will appreciate modern conveniences like free wireless high-speed Internet access in all rooms, data port telephones, voice mail and access to fax services. An on-site meeting room can accommodate
up to 30 people.
All spacious guest rooms include hair dryers, irons and ironing boards, easy chairs with ottomans and cable television with free HBO. In addition to standard features, Executive King suites feature whirlpool bathtubs and large work desks. Non-smoking rooms are available upon request. Pets are welcome with a small stay fee. Valet cleaning services are provided for guest convenience.
Experience southern hospitality, exceptional service and first-class amenities when you stay with us at the Quality Inn.
Quality Inn
2136 Rockford Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336.789.2000 • 800.672.1667
www.qualityinn.com
Visits RidgeCrest Retirement
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to RidgeCrest Retirement, a senior living community located at 1000 RidgeCrest Lane in Mount
Airy, North Carolina on Tuesday November 17, 2009. The Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived with the balloons, cookies and a basket of candy to say “Thank
You” to Linda Vernon and the staff at RidgeCrest for being such supportive Chamber members. RidgeCrest was busy as usual with residents leaving on an outing and visitors coming to visit friends and family; however the staff took time away from their usual morning duties to tell us more about upcoming activities
at RidgeCrest and to take a few photos with The Chamber Surprise Patrol. The RidgeCrest Staff was a delight and the Chamber Surprise Patrol had a great
time meeting everyone. What a beautiful place RidgeCrest is!
RidgeCrest combines today’s most desirable features with the best aspects of small town living. Easy shopping, theatre and the arts, golf, dining, medical
care and culture and history all located within minutes of the community. RidgeCrest offers apartment homes with 24 hour security, interior and exterior maintenance, all utilities except for phone service,
weekly housekeeping, restaurant style dining, game rooms, scheduled transportation, wellness programs, dynamic social calendar, healthcare options and on-site staff, and a community of friends!
RidgeCrest allows a senior to enjoy a lifestyle where you live independent in your own house within a retirement community that offers an abundance of amenities! Life Long, Live Well, Live!
RidgeCrest Retirement LLC
1000 RidgeCrest Lane • Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336) 786-9100 • www.ridge-crest.com
Visits Lorene’s Bakery & Catering
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Chamber Member Lorene Moore, owner of Lorene’s Bakery & Catering on Tuesday December 1,
2009. The Patrol arrived with balloons, a basket of candy and a box of cookies just to say Thank You to Lorene and her staff for being Chamber members! Just
days after Thanksgiving, the bakery was bustling with activity. The phone rang constantly with new orders while the Chamber Surprise Patrol was there. Scott
Moore, Lorene’s son worked at the first prep table, mixing new batches of delicious holiday treats and watching the goodies already in the oven. Lisa Hawks
was busy with phone calls and the German Chocolate and Pecan pies at the next table. Lorene was at the last table with several 5 galloon buckets of homemade
icing that she was using to ice and decorate the cake orders. YUM, YUM, YUM!
Lorene Moore started her baking and catering career after enrolling in beginner classes at Surry Community College. Today, twenty-one years later she is one of the most respected and sought-after bakers and caterers in this area. Ask anyone who they would recommend baking cakes or providing catering for an event and most will suggest you call Lorene! Watching the three bake on an early Tuesday
morning was fascinating. Lorene can ice and decorate a cake in 6 minutes. Her oven can bake 30 layers or 16 sheet cakes at one time. After helping with family orders for the Thanksgiving holiday,
Lorene went home and prepared a feast for forty on Thanksgiving Day!
If you or someone you know is need of baked goods or help with a holiday meal…..let us be the first to recommend Lorene’s Bakery & Catering!
Lorene’s Bakery & Catering
314 North White Street • Dobson, NC 27017
336.356.4699
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Talley’s Custom Frame & Gallery at 212 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC on Tuesday December 8, 2009. Owner, Steve Talley was busy in the back with matting and framing orders but one of the stores employees helped lure him to the front of the store
where he was greeted with balloons, a basket of candy and box of cookies from the Chamber Surprise Patrol. The Chamber Surprise Patrol just wanted to say
Thank You to Steve for being so supportive of the Chamber and Mount Airy! Steve Talley is a special person, always willing to help out and blessed with a
wonderful since of humor. Our time in the showroom with Steve and his staff was entertaining and full of laughter….making for a perfect way to start a day!
Talley’s Custom Frame & Gallery features collectible reproductions of original oil paintings by America’s finest Artists. You will find Signed and Numbered
Limited Edition Prints and Canvases, along with a large collection of the most popular Open Edition Prints available. An Authorized Dealer of Internationally
recognized Art Publishers such as Somerset House and McGaw Publishing, coupled with a professional touch when needed, assure you of a buying and gift-giving experience you will enjoy. Talley’s
Custom Frame & Gallery is focused on giving you quick access to the kind of gift and collectible products you’re looking for. Talley’s Custom Frame & Gallery wants to be your Art and Gift provider.
Speed, Quality, and 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.
212 North Main Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336.786.4696 • www.printvault.com
Page 12
Visits Leonard’s Jewelers
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Leonard’s Jewelers, the oldest retail business in Mount Airy and possibly in Surry County on Friday
February 12, 2010. Leonard’s Jewelers, located at 221 North Main Street in Mount Airy, North Carolina is a family owned jewelry business that has been in
operation since 1893! Mr. Walter Leonard, Jr. and his two daughters, Amy Leonard Deaton and Kathy Leonard Jones along with Pam Snow were on hand since
it was Friday of Valentines’ Day weekend!
The Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived with the balloons, cookies and a basket of candy to say “Thank You” to Leonard’s Jewelers for their continued support of
the Chamber. Mr. Leonard educated the Chamber Ambassadors about how to tell if a piece of jewelry is real silver or real gold and if your diamond is in fact a
real diamond or a man-made diamond. Our visit was interesting, informative and entertaining to say the least. We only meant to stay a few minutes but most of
us stayed over an hour with Mr. Leonard and his daughters. Thank you Leonard’s Jewelers for taking time to spend with us on one of the busiest weekends of the
year! If you have questions about your jewelry or want to talk to an expert, we suggest that you go by and see Mr. Walter Leonard, Jr. ………you won’t be sorry!
Leonard’s Jewelers
221 North Main Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
Phone 336.786.5491
Visits Surrey Bank & Trust
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to the Main Office of Surrey Bank & Trust located at 145 North Renfro Street in Mount Airy on Tuesday February 23, 2010. Arriving with balloons, cookies and a basket of candy, the Chamber Surprise Patrol entered the beautiful lobby shortly after at 9:00am
hoping to see President & CEO, Ted Ashby to say “Thank You” for Surrey Bank & Trust’s continued support of the Chamber. Mr. Ashby was out of the office
visiting one of the branch locations, so the Chamber Surprise Patrol visited with Peter A. Pequeno, II, Senior Vice President/CLO and the bank staff members
who were available to meet with us for a few minutes. Mr. Pequeno spoke to the group about the history of the bank, the recognition from the Small Business
Administration as being a top lender for small businesses and the success the bank has had over the past fourteen years. The Main Office personnel were warm and friendly making it evident why business is
good…..people want to do business where they are treated with a warm and friendly smile! While the Chamber Surprise Patrol was visiting….business went on as usual with the walk-in customers and the
drive-thru customers. Thank you Surrey Bank & Trust for allowing us to visit and most of all …..Thank you for your hospitality!
Surrey Bank & Trust is a locally-owned bank in Surry County, North Carolina that was founded in 1996 by a group of local business executives. Surrey Bank & Trust is a full-service financial institution
dedicated to making its communities stronger by offering personal and business customers a comprehensive selection of affordable financial products and services, convenience and quality service. Customers will find traditional banking services, investment advice, property and causality insurance and a number of other services, such as online cash management, that are not typically offered by community
banks of this size. This commitment has contributed to Surrey Bank & Trust’s consistent growth and profitability. The bank currently has over $200 million in assets and five full-service offices in Surry
County, North Carolina, and Patrick County, Virginia.
Surrey Bank & Trust is known for its support of small businesses. It has been recognized by the Small Business Administration as the leading SBA lender among community banks in North Carolina and
one of the top 10 among all North Carolina banks for the past several years. Surrey Bank was also the leading SBA Community Bank Lender in Virginia in 2007 and the 2004 SBA “Regional Outstanding
Lender” award for SBA Region 4, which includes North and South Carolina, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
Surrey Bank & Trust Location
Main Office – 145 North Renfro Street Mount Airy, NC
Administration/Operations Center – 199 North Renfro Street Mount Airy, NC • Mortgage Loan Center – 199 North Renfro Street Mount Airy, NC
Branch Locations:
1280 West Pine Street Mount Airy, NC • 2050 Rockford Street Mount Airy, NC • 653 South Key Street Pilot Mountain, NC • 940 Woodland Drive Stuart, Va.
Surrey Bank & Trust Officers • Edward C. Ashby, III, President/CEO • Brenda J. Harding, Senior Vice President/Secretary/COO
Peter A. Pequeno, II, Senior Vice President/CLO • Mark H. Towe, Senior Vice President/CFO
Surrey Bank & Trust
145 North Renfro Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-783-3900 • www.surreybank.com
Visits Millennium Charter Academy
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Millennium Charter Academy located at 500 Old Springs Road in Mount Airy on Tuesday March
9, 2010. The Surprise Patrol arrived in the lobby with balloons, a big candy basket and box of cookies for the staff. The Surprise Patrol was welcomed with a
friendly and warm smile from Millennium Charter Academy Receptionist, Tammy Simmons who had no idea who were but knew we were there for fun! Once
we told Tammy of our purpose, she gathered as many of the staff as were available to the lobby where we celebrated and thanked Millennium Charter Academy for being Chamber Members!
Headmaster Kirby R. McCrary was the first to arrive followed by or Lu Ann Browne - Director of Development, Lu Ann recognized The Chamber Surprise Patrol because she had read our newsletter the
night before and thought what a great thing to do…celebrate Chamber Members with a surprise visit….and there we were to celebrate Millennium Charter Academy! Other staff members who joined us
included: Shanda Lawson – Administrative Assistant and Business Manager, Pepper Rotenizer - Middle School Office Manager, Athletic Director Steve Braune, and Speech Pathologist Jennifer Conley.
Headmaster McCrary gave us a brief history of Millennium Charter Academy and an insight into future plans. This year Millennium celebrates their 10th Year Anniversary and the students have been
preparing for an exciting celebration planned for Saturday April 17th that includes a 10th Anniversary Celebration Exposition, a School Pride Ride and an Earth Day Carnival…….more details about this
special celebration in the next few weeks.
While visiting with Millennium several additional staff members passed through the lobby area and we were able to visit with Anne Haynes, Alaine Poteat and Marcie Gwyn, Director of Housekeeping.
Our time spent at Millennium Charter Academy was so much fun, filled with lots of laughter and smiles, and with energy and excitement felt from all of the staff members about what they do… every day.
To the rest of the staff members at Millennium Charter Academy that we did not get a chance to visit with…Thank You for your dedication to ensuring that our children receive an education that prepares
them for the future!
Millennium Charter Academy is an independent public school, serving grades Kindergarten through eight, structured to move forward thoughtfully, purposefully and relatively quickly fueled by its leadership, staff, and parent body and guided by a well-defined mission statement. The reputation of the school is growing in the community as a place where children can be well educated. The growth alone
in enrollment and the facility is a good indicator of MCA’s potential. Millennium Charter Academy is distinctive for its small class size, innovative approaches, attention to moral character development, a
strong sense of community, and the high quality of its teachers.
As a charter school, MCA is an independent public school of choice, freed from many governmental rules, but accountable for results. The school is open to all who wish to attend. Since tax dollars
pay for the education, there is no tuition charged. The school is accountable to its governing body, the Board of Directors of Millennium Education Foundation, the parent body, and to the North Carolina
Department of Public Instruction, as well as to certain federal departments.
Millennium Charter Academy
500 Old Springs Road • Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336) 789-7570 • www.mcacademy.com
Page 13
Visits The Hampton Inn & Suites at Shelton Vineyards
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Hampton Inn & Suites Shelton Vineyards at 150 Charlestowne Drive in Dobson, on Tuesday March
23rd, 2010. The Surprise Patrol arrived in the lobby with balloons, a big basket of candy and box of cookies for the staff to thank them for being Chamber Members! The Chamber Surprise Patrol was welcomed by Chaquana Whitlock at the front desk who quickly called Curtis Largen, Hampton Inn & Suites Manager,
down to meet his “special guests”...the Chamber Surprise Patrol! Curtis took the patrol on a tour of the beautiful hotel that features a wine bar on site featuring
Shelton Vineyard wines! We were also able to tour the fabulous pool area and an incredibly spacious suite! The hotel is elegantly decorated with carpet featuring
the Shelton Vineyard Logo. Off to the side with an awesome view and patio is a spacious business meeting area. Hampton Inn & Suites features a 102 room
hotel only 2.5 miles from Shelton Vineyards, in the heart of the Yadkin Valley where wine making is taken VERY seriously. The hotel offers a workout room as
well as many other services and amenities. A dedicated and delightful staff is waiting to make your visit unforgettable! Your experience will indeed exceed your expectations! Thank you so much Curtis for
your gracious hospitality, the tour... and for being a Chamber Member! We absolutely did not want to leave! Give Curtis a call to see how he can help add the special touches to your next business meeting,
wedding event, or get-together!
Hampton Inn & Suites Shelton Vineyards
150 Charlestowne Drive • Dobson, N.C. 27017
336-353-9400 • www.dobsonsuites.hamptoninn.com
Visits Aaron’s Sales and Leasing
The Greater Mount Airy Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit on Tuesday April 13th to Aaron’s Sales and Leasing located at 2123 Rockford
Street Suite 250 in Mount Airy (located between Staples and Cloud 9 Coffee). The Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived at opening time bringing balloons, a big
basket of candy and box of cookies for the Aaron’s Sales and Leasing staff to thank them for being Chamber Members! Timing was perfect and the staff was
alone in the store…Angie Barber the General Manager came out from the office to welcome us even though she was not sure who we were. Jamie Marion,
Production Technician and Joe Eads, Account Manager joined Angie at the counter curious as well to find out who we were. Upon introductions and the purpose
of our visit Angie, Joe and Jamie gave us the tour of
the store and the history of the company. The show
room was furnished with beautiful furniture for every room of the house, great home accessories,
appliances, computers, electronics and some awesome flat screen televisions. We could have
stayed there all day! Aaron’s Sales and Leasing joined the Chamber in November 2006 when they
opened their store in Mount Airy. Business has continued to grow since their opening and today
they serve over 1200 customers. Aaron’s Sales and Leasing provides everyone the opportunity to
furnish their homes with quality furniture, appliances, computers and electronics…working with
each customer on an individual basis. What a great time we had visiting with Angie, Joe, and
Jamie. If you are looking for furniture, appliances, computers or electronics…. stop and check out
the selection at Aaron’s Sales and Leasing….where any competitors advertised price will be beat
or you get $100.00!! It’s Aaron’s 55th Year and Aaron’s 55th Anniversary Super Sweepstakes is
underway, stop by the store and pick up your game card…no purchase necessary, one per household per month…now through November!
Aaron’s, Inc. is the leader in lease ownership and specialty retailing of office furniture, consumer electronics, home appliances and electronics with more than 1,655 Company-operated and
franchised stores in 48 states and Canada. Founded in 1955 by entrepreneur R. Charles Loudermilk and publicly traded since 1982, Aaron’s was a pioneer in the furniture rental industry.
There are two operating divisions of Aaron’s: sales and lease ownership and manufacturing. The
Aaron’s Sales & Lease Ownership division is the largest and fastest growing division, serving
credit-constrained consumers in need of basic home furnishings, appliances and electronics.
Customers range from white-collar professionals and blue-collar workers to young couples and
Pilot Location
Riverside Location
retirees. The Sales & Lease Ownership division has 1,072 Company-owned stores and 569 fran368-1348
719-0298
chised stores. The MacTavish Furniture Industries division manufactures the majority of furniture
leased and sold by Aaron’s. Vertical integration allows the Company to control quality, styling and
cost, leading to superior customer service. Sales and Lease Ownership FOR LESS!
Aaron’s Sales and Leasing
*School Age Summer Camp excluded
2123 Rockford Street Suite 250 • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-783-0600 • www.shopaarons.com
• Certified, credentialed and loving teachers
For All New Enrollments
2 Locations Only!
• Preschool classrooms
• Certified creative curriculum taught in all classrooms to
ensure your child’s readiness for school
• Surveillance Cameras
Page 14
Chamber Business After Hours
Pine State Marketing, Inc. hosted a Chamber Business After Hours event on Thursday October 29, 2009 to a crowd of over 130 chamber members, family and guests. Owner, Bucky Holcomb hosted another amazing event with the theme being “Ignite Your Business”. Let’s Par Tea provided heavy hors d’oeuvres and delicious desserts, live entertainment was provided by Jerry Chapman, beverages were provided by Goobers
and complimentary Therapeutic Messages by Krystal Jones. Guests were invited to take a tour of the facility and to watch the screen printing
process. Everyone was given a t-shirt in their choice color. The evening was delightful with business people from all over the county exchanging
ideas and contact information. Hats off to Bucky and his staff for a terrific evening!
Pine State Marketing is your Advertising Solution Specialists. Committed to assisting you efficiently reach your targeted audience through promotional programs that combine creative ideas with the right products to achieve your goals without breaking your budget. Take advantage of Pine State’s state-of-the-art, in-house embroidery, screen-printing and wide
format digital printing for competitive pricing and quick service. Do you need to: Increase sales, Improve trade show traffic, Promote a new product release, Enhance your corporate
image, Improve employee morale or Show client appreciation? If you answered YES, call Pine State Marketing today and let them help you!
The Pine State Staff is ready to assist you!
219 Frederick Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336.789.9437 • www.pinestatemarketing.com
Gates Pharmacy
Gates Pharmacy hosted a Chamber Business After Hours event on Thursday December 3, 2009 at 364 North South Street Mount Airy, NC. to
a crowd of over 40 chamber members and guests. A busy night in Mount Airy with the Tree Lighting Ceremony and the installation of our new
mayor and commissioners, Gates Pharmacy was revolving with members dropping by for awhile
and continuing onto another event. Hosts for the evening; Gates Pharmacy Owners & Pharmacists Adam Ripley and wife Hannah, Gates Pharmacy Marketing - Ellen Pometto and Pharmacist - Kelly
Hull had setup a lovely area with wonderful hors d’oeuvres and beverages in their newly expanded
area. Adam gave the guests a history of Gates Pharmacy and explained their commitment to personal
service and how their philosophy and service differs from national chain pharmacies. With a friendly
staff you can expect the intimacy of a neighborhood pharmacy at Gates! Constantly expanding and changing with the advances of medication, Gates Pharmacy strives to provide their customers with the best professional patient care services available. It was a wonderful
evening with business people from all segments of the membership exchanging ideas and information.
Thank you Adam, Hannah, Ellen and Kelly for inviting us to Gates Pharmacy in Mount Airy and showing us such great hospitality and
for the opportunity to meet each of you!
If you want personal service from you pharmacist….call or visit Gates Pharmacy today!
Gates Pharmacy
364 North South Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336.789.5050 • www.gatespharmacy.net
Video Works of North Carolina, Inc.
Normal Hours: ❑ Sun – Fri 12-5 ❑ Sat 11 am – Sunset
Video Works of North Carolina, Inc. hosted a Chamber Business After Hours event on Tuesday
December 8, 2009 at their studio located at 140 Franklin Street Mount Airy, NC, to a huge crowd
of 75+ Chamber Members and guests. Owner, Stephanie Easter and Executive Sales Director,
Kathy Gunter left no stone unturned! The evening featured fabulous food from 308 Bistro, wine
from Old North State Winery, live jazz entertainment and a special appearance from Bolt, the
Mascot for the Winston-Salem DASH baseball team. Video Works was decorated for the holidays
and the atmosphere was festive and upbeat. Those in attendance made new business acquaintances renewed some old friendships and everyone was given a Video Works gift. Stephanie Easter
was blessed to have her family in attendance and helping out wherever they were needed. Video
Works of North Carolina, Inc. planned an excellent event and that was evident at 7:30 because the
crowd was still there! Stephanie and Kathy what a great time everyone had and what a wonderful event you hosted! Thank you for inviting the Chamber Members to your studio during the holiday season!
Video Works of NC, Inc. is a full service production studio that can produce a turnkey project for video either in standard definition or
high definition. Whether you need script writing, casting, location scouting, video capture of specific footage or state of the art Final Cut
Pro editing, Video Works of NC, Inc. can help you tell your story, document a moment in time or just show a loved one how special they
are in your life.
Video Works of North Carolina, Inc.
140 Franklin Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336.719.6957 •www.videoworksofnc.com
Chamber Business After Hours
Page 15
Greater Mount Airy Area Habitat for Humanity
The Greater Mount Airy Area Habitat for Humanity hosted a Chamber Business After Hours event on Thursday February 18, 2010 to a group
of over 60 Chamber Members, Habitat Board Members and guests. Executive Director, Joe Dellinger, and the awesome Habitat staff of Sheree
Russo, Ginny Anderson, Melissa Tickle, Lynn Wilkes, David Moncos and David Coalson had transformed the Habitat ReStore into a welcoming
and inviting environment that featured an appetizer area and guest seating. Chamber Members; Food Lion, Pepsi and Neighbors Stores assisted
with refreshments and appetizers for the evening. The staff had the Restore ready for the second season of Trading Furniture Spaces scheduled
for the weekend; another creative fund raising event. The sales floor of the ReStore was full of couches and chairs while larger pieces of furniture surrounded the exterior walls. Artwork
lined one wall with furniture refinishing supplies taking up the space toward the back of the store. There was so much to see and explore, unfortunately most of us did not see it all! Thank
you Joe and staff for a really great evening learning about Habitat for Humanity!
Habitat for Humanity is an ecumenical Christian housing ministry, who works in partnership with people in need to build simple, decent, affordable homes. Habitat for Humanity
believes that every human being deserves the dignity of a decent, affordable place in which to live and grow into all that God intended. Habitat’s efforts are to allow families opportunity to move out of substandard, unaffordable housing into a home that is affordable and safe for the entire family. Greater Mount Airy Area Habitat for Humanity was established in
1993 to serve Surry County, with a goal of averaging building 3 homes a year and increasing to 5 homes per year in 2010. To qualify as an applicant for a Habitat home a family must
be determined to live in substandard, inadequate, or unaffordable housing. They must have stable income and have the ability to afford a modest monthly mortgage payment. They
must also perform sweat equity on their home and attend homeowner education training. Currently a Habitat home requires $60,000 to cover building materials with land being an
additional cost. A typical home owner signs a 20 year interest free mortgage for $75,000 and these homes appraise between $85,000 - $95,000. To learn more contact the local Habitat
office at 336.789.4663.
Greater Mount Airy Area Habitat for Humanity • ReStore
1132 West Pine Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
33.789.4663 • www.mountairyhabitat.org
Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast, WIFM 100.9 & Neighbors Stores
Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast, WIFM 100.9 & Neighbors Stores hosted a Chamber Business After Hours event on Thursday February 25, 2010
at the Hampton Inn Mount Airy to a packed house of more than100 Chamber members, guests and friends. Guests were treated to delicious
heavy hor d’oerves and refreshments while enjoying the company of new business contacts and renewing existing business contacts. Charlotte
and Gary York were the perfect hosts along with the exceptional staff from WIFM 100.9 who had planned everything! WIFM 100.9 Sales executive Mary Simmons and Charlotte York had planned an evening showcasing some of their local partnerships by involving many of them in
this wonderful event. Special thanks to the following partners and supporters; Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast, Neighbors Stores, Food Lion,
Hampton Inn Mount Airy, Coca-Cola, Cana Mount Airy Florist, 13 Bones and Big Lots of Elkin. By including many of their partners in the Business After Hours event the evening was
extraordinary and WIFM 100.9, Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast and Neighbors Stores were able to demonstrate how important doing business locally is to our economy. We should all
take this example and spend our dollars in our community with our local Chamber Business Members! Thank you Charlotte and Gary York and the awesome staff at WIFM 100.9, it
was an exceptional event and we all enjoyed it!
WIFM 100.9
Neighbors Stores, Inc
Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast
813 North Bridge Street • Elkin, NC 28621
1314 Old Highway 601 South
203 West Main Street • Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
(336) 835-2511 • www.wifmradio.com
PO Box 48 • Mount Airy NC 27030
(336)368-1183 • www.drflippins.com
(336)789-5561 • www.neighborsstores.com
Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina
Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina hosted a Chamber Business After Hours Event on Thursday March 4, 2010 at store #16 located at 1986 Rockford Street Mount Airy, NC. The event was held in the receiving area of the store affectionately called the area beyond “the
Pearly Gates”; very few ever see this area since this is where donations are dropped off and items are processed for resell. Over 70 Chamber
members and guests attended this wonderful event. The Chamber staff had a surprise for those present; the day before the event the staff went
shopping at the store and purchased career outfits to wear to the event. A short “entertaining” fashion show by the staff demonstrated how inexpensively career attire can be acquired.
The staff purchased recognizable brand names and completed four outfits for a grand total (including tax) for $50.76..... amazing the crowd. Chamber Chair Britta Needham welcomed
the crowd and gave a brief overview of Goodwill Industries then turned the program over to Jerry Johnson, Store Manager. Jerry thanked those in attendance for coming out to Goodwill’s FIRST Chamber event; he talked about the local store that opened November 7, 2007 and how important our donations and our purchases made at the store are to the mission
of Goodwill. Jerry introduced the Goodwill Team and thanked them for the hard work that they do and the extra effort everyone made in preparing for this event and being able to do
it with the store open. Chamber members and guests were treated to an delicious assortment of beverages and Hor’doerves provided by The Dairy Center, Wal-Mart, Lowe’s Foods,
Sagebrush, Little Richard’s and Papa John’s ….all local Chamber Members! The evening was complimented with a large selection of door prizes and Goodwill gift cards that was very
pleasing to the winners. It was another successful Business After Hours event that provided Chamber members and guests an opportunity to learn more about our local Goodwill store
and allowed those in attendance to renew existing business relationships and to make important contacts with potential new clients....it was another awesome event! Thank you Jerry
and the Goodwill Team for hosting your first Business After Hours!
GOODWILL INDUSTRIES - Goodwill creates opportunities for people to enhance their lives through training, workforce development services and collaboration with other community
organizations. We train people for careers in fields such as healthcare, office technology and skilled trades and provide job training, placement and career services to people with disadvantages and disabilities. In 2009, Goodwill served over 40,000 people. In Mount Airy, Goodwill operates a Career Connections Center which provides free, career counseling services
to job seekers such as skills assessments, resume and cover letter writing, assistance with applications, computers with high-speed internet access and interview simulators. Goodwill
partners with many community organizations to offer these services such as JobLink, the Employment Security Commission, and Surry Community College. We believe that work creates the economic energy that builds strong families and strong communities. YOU DONATE...WE TRAIN...PEOPLE WORK!
Goodwill Industries of NW NC • Store #16 • 1986 Rockford St. • Mt. Airy, NC 27030
(336)786-4350 • Fax: 786-4105
goodwillnwnc.org • www.facebook.com/GoodwillNWNC
Page 16
B u s in e s s B r ie fs
Shelton Vineyards struck gold in NY! Shelton Vineyards was awarded a medal for each of its six wines in the 2010 Finger Lakes
International Wine Competition, one of the country’s most prestigious wine events that brought in 3,000 wine entries from 50 states and
15 countries! Judges awarded the newly released 2007 Yadkin Valley Malbec a gold medal!
Northern Hospital was named by Business North Carolina magazine as one of North Carolina’s Besst Hospitals in Critical Care and Pulmonary care. They are ranked among the nation’s top 10 percent in each category.
Surry County Schools - East Surry Principal- Diane Beane was named principal of the year! Central Middle School -Katie McCrary was named Teach of the
Year
Mount Airy High School ranks #1 in the state for Career and Technical Education courses. Based on post-assessment.
The Gallery Group and Art Studio, Inc. fosters a compassionate and sharing atmosphere where local artists and the handicapped community can join
together in creating art. The Gallery Group and the Gilmer-Smith Foundation signed an agreement to reopen the Dr. Robert Smith House to showcase local artist work as well as student art.
JCPenney Mount Airy Location Received the Chairman’s Award which is the Company’s highest award for performance excellence.
named Manager of the Year for the JCPenney triad district.
John Tsaklis also was
BudBreak Wine Festival held an outstanding first year event with participation of 26 area wineries and thousands attending the event. Shelton Vineyards
was award with Best of Show for their Reisling. Many other wineries were awarded Gold, Silver, and Bronze Medals. Locally Old North State Winery, Shelton
Vineyards, Round Peak Vineyards were recipients of Gold and Silver medals.
Surry Community College – 5th Largest Triad Community College by the Business.
GAP Certification - Local Farmers can take advantage of free classes with the N.C. Cooperative Extension and Surry Community College through a grant
offered by the Tobacco Trust Fund for Good Agricultural Practices training. GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) is a food safety program for the farm. This
training helps farmers look at their individual establishments to determine what practices will be best for them as well as looking at potential problems. All
farmers participating with Pilot Mountain Pride must be GAP certified.
Harvest Time Bread
Congratulations to Harvest Time Bread on their recent announcement of the 4.5 million dollar capital investment for the planned purchase and expansion
of the Mount Airy location that will retain 86 jobs and could bring in an additional 38 new jobs! Incentives were approved from the county and city totaling
$500,000. Gov. Beverly Perdue has committed a $100,00 grant from the One North Carolina Fund.
The steel is up at Central States Mfg.!
Central States Mfg, is an investment in our community of over $5,000,000 and could bring 45 jobs to our area. The facility should be open and running later
this year.
Biz
Boost
If you employ 10 or more, the Governor has launched an initiative called Biz Boost to help North Carolina
companies grow profitable revenues and add jobs. You are one of a select group of businesses invited to learn
about this program. For your convenience, you may RSVP for any session on the following dates and locations:
Session I
May 24, 2010-The Mount Airy Workforce Development Center located at 1220 State Street (Hwy 601), Mount Airy
behind the Comfort Inn and Arby’s Restaurant from 1:00pm-2:30pm in Room 113. Dessert Refreshments will be
provided.
Session II
June 1, 2010-The Fairfield Inn on CC Camp Road, Elkin from 8:30am-10:00am. Continental Breakfast will be
provided.
Session III
June 3, 2010-The Pilot Center of Surry Community College located at 224 E. Main Street, Pilot Mountain from
8:30am-10:00am in Room 109.
Continental Breakfast will be provided.
Blair Abee, Triad Director for the Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC) will offer a set
of remarks addressing “How Mid-Size Companies Can Grow Faster, Profitably,” as well as explain Biz Boost program details. Van Thorpe with the North Carolina Department of Commerce will be on hand to answer questions
as well as to schedule one on one appointments.
Call Jan Critz at the Surry County Economic Development Partnership at (336) 401-9900 if you would like to
attend.
Page 17
Chamber holds Speed
Networking Event
Striving for new and innovative ways to promote business and networking, on Thursday, November
19th, 2009, The Chamber held its very first Speed Networking Event at the Museum Annex building.
An event like no other drew an interested crowd not knowing… just what to expect for the evening.
Businesses showed up excited, anxious, and ready with materials to share with other businesses. Mister
Sparky’s Stephen Hudson and United Processing Co.’s Glenn Dulaney set the tone for the evening (and
began their new acting career) with a hilarious skit prepared on what to do…and what NOT to do when
networking. Glen and Stephen also showed us what an elevator speech should sound like. An elevator
speech is a very brief and creative 15 second introduction to you and your business. Speed Networking is
like speed dating for business networking. 18 businesses participated in the rotation where each participant had 4 minute, one on one, meetings with 17 other businesses. Many were surprised at the amount
of appointments and business that resulted from the event! The event ended with an applause asking
when the next one would be scheduled….stay tuned!
Food Lion sponsored the event to highlight their “Trays for the Holidays” campaign. Fruit, vegetables, meat and dessert trays were showcased
during the event. We would also like to thank Cooke Rentals for tables, Hutchens Laundry & Cleaners,
WorkForce Carolina and Round Peak Vineyards for their donations to the event.
Thank you to our wonderful Sponsors that made this an outstanding event!
Food Lion – Travis Sizemore
Cooke Rentals – Ben Cooke
Hutchens Laundry & Cleaners – Aaron Routh
Round Peak Vineyards – Ken Gulaian
WorkForce Carolina – Traci Hamilton
OUR SPRING NETWORKING EVENT WAS HELD ON MAY 13th
AT THE MUSEUMANNEX WITH 34 BUSINESSES PARTICIPATING!
LOOK FOR MORE INFO TO COME!
ED TIM
MIT
LI • ONLY • E
®
A Full Service Employment Network®
Mt. Airy
789-8220
Elkin
835-6030
www.workforcecarolina.com
Electronic,
Hydraulic,
and Motor
Services
101 Technology Lane
Mt. Airy, NC
336-789-0792
www.aesintl.com
8,000 TAX
REFUND
up to
$
for first time home buyers
homes
Call to qualify
789-8826
Page 18
North Carolina House of Representatives 92nd District,
Darrell McCormick visits Chamber of Commerce
Representative Darrell McCormick visited The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce
on Wednesday January 6, 2010 and spoke to a small group of local business owners and residents. A drop–by meet and greet visit turned into a lengthy discussion that lasted for a couple of
hours with business owners and residents asking questions of Representative McCormick. City
Commissioner Dean Brown had invited Representative McCormick to Mount Airy to tour the
downtown area and to meet some of the local business owners and residents. Representative McCormick was very complementary to Mount Airy,
noting the recent announcements of new industries locating to Mount Airy and the importance of
tourism to this area. Representative McCormick
is very supportive of the idea of trying to recruit
a North Carolina State Correctional Institute to
Surry County and being able to create hundreds of
jobs for our citizens. Another local issue that we brought to Representative McCormick’s
attention is the recent bid from NC Granite to fabricate the stone for the National September 11th Memorial and Museum at Memorial Plaza in New York and recently hearing that a company in Italy could be selected for the fabrication verses a US Company. Representative McCormick assured us that he
would do whatever he could to bring a voice to this topic with our Federal Representatives.
For most of us this was the first opportunity we had to meet Representative McCormick and to hear his thoughts and ideas about our
State Government. We appreciate Representative McCormick spending some time here in Mount Airy and meeting some of our business owners, business leaders and residents. We invite our elected State and Federal representatives to visit anytime!
Theresa Willie, Economic Development Fellow with
U.S. Senator Richard Burr visits Chamber
An informal discussion with Teresa Willie from the office of U.S. Senator Richard Burr
was held at the Chamber on Thursday February 11, 2010 to discuss Economic Development.
It was a perfect opportunity for us to tell her exactly how dismal things are in the greater
Mount Airy and Surry County area and what we would like to see being done to improve
our local economic development. It was a frank discussion that included Martin Collins,
Community Development Coordinator, City of Mount Airy, Todd Tucker, President Surry
County Economic Development Partnership, the Chamber and Mrs. Willie. We encouraged
her to relay to Senator Burr some of our frustrations and concerns and to encourage him
and our fellow elected leaders to focus on the challenges faced by our small businesses, our
communities and for our citizens. We invited Mrs. Willie to join us for one of our Business
Development Committee meetings and to be able to talk directly with our business owners.
We left an open invitation for Senator Burr to visit with us and the citizens and business
owners in Surry County.
Page 19
Administrative Professional Day Luncheon
The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce hosted the Seventh Annual Administrative Professionals Day Luncheon on Wednesday April 21st at Cross
Creek Country Club. Over 180 Chamber Members and their guests attended the annual event that celebrates and recognizes the Administrative Professionals
in the workplace. The Administrative Professionals are the engines behind the scenes that keep the day
to day operations running smoothly. Because of their loyalty and commitment our businesses continue to
thrive and succeed!
The 2009 Administrative Professional of the Year Award was presented by Chamber Chairman of the
Board – Britta Needham. Citing numerous quotes from the employer, “Any success we have had is due in
no small part to the enthusiastic and untiring efforts of this employee” and “Our nominee is an icon at her
job as well as in the community at large”. This nominee has a great passion for her family and grandchildren, her church, her community, local charities and her beloved Mount Airy Bears, married 53 years and
been an employee for 40 years with Haynes Strand & Company………………Mrs. Shirley Perkins, the
2009 Administrative Professional of the Year!
The announcement was a shock to Shirley as she stood
to a rousing thunder of applause from the crowd. Shirley
Perkins with Haynes, Strand & Company, PLLC was presented the 2009 Administrative Professional of the Year Award and as a surprise she was joined at the podium
by her husband Bob, daughter Karen and son Greg with eight Haynes Strand & Company Partners and coworkers witnessing the event! Congratulations Shirley!!!
The crowd enjoyed lunch followed with a program of entertainment provided by the Chamber’s Ambassadors Club that brought down the house with roars of laughter! The Ambassadors plan the event and provide
the entertainment for the Administrative Professionals Luncheon. Each year the “wildly entertaining” Ambassadors exceed the previous year’s performance. This year’s
theme was “Mark Walking” a spin off of the Jay Leno Show’s
“Jay Walking” performed by the amazing local talents of Mark Brown which included audience participation.
Like regular television shows there were interruptions from the advertising sponsors of; Smith & Smith, DDS,
Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast, 100.9 WIFM, Neighbors, Hampton Inn Mount Airy, WorkForce Carolina and
Perkins & Associates. These five commercials were take-offs of real commercials but were re-written for our
local business sponsors and performed by the Chamber Ambassadors. Chamber Chair- Britta Needham watched
the show from her own Lazy Boy recliner provided by Brannock & Hiatt Furniture. It was Entertaining …it was
like nothing else we had seen…it was FUN! It was a wonderful event and a great way to celebrate and honor all
Administrative Professionals!
Thanks to Chamber Ambassadors: Allison Poteat, Ginny Anderson, Lenise Lynch, Mary Simmons, Marty
Thompson, Michael May, Nathan Lankford, Patricia Bondurant, Scott Kniskern, Shannon Wall, Tracy Webster,
Jennifer Jones, and Tyler Morgan for their performances along with special guest star; Mark Brown! A program
of this size could not have run smoothly without the support of the back stage crew from the following Chamber
Ambassadors: Christy Tilley, Kim Shelton, Angie Cagle and Ashly Lancaster!
A Very Special Thank You to our Sponsors!
Program Sponsors
Brown Communications and Cooke Rentals
Commercial Sponsors
WorkForce Carolina, Smith & Smith, DDS, Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast, Neighbors, 100.9 WIFM Radio, Perkins & Associates and Hampton Inn
of Mount Airy
Door Prize Sponsors
Mountain Valley Hospice & Palliative Care, Southern Community Bank, WorkForce Carolina, RBC Bank, Hampton Inn of Mount Airy,
SouthData, Inc., Renfro Corporation, Pine State Marketing, Inc. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage/Wachovia, Neighbors and Chili’s
Associate Sponsors
Creative Designs Flowers & Gifts, Scarlett Begonias, What’s Needlin’ Ewe, LLC, F. Rees Company and Leonard’s Jewelers
It was a wonderful event and a great way to celebrate and honor all Administrative Professionals!
Page 20
Chamber Hosts Annual Awards Luncheon
The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce hosted the Annual Awards Luncheon on Thursday March 25, 2010 at Cross Creek Country Club. The
event was sponsored by Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast, WIFM 100.9 and Neighbors who made sure that each table was decorated with arrangements from
Cana/Mount Airy Florist and Neighbors goodie bags were provided for every guest. Chair-Elect Gary Lawrence welcomed everyone to what he tagged as
“the Chamber’s version of the Academy Awards”. The keynote speaker, Mary Parker Clark, an educational consultant, humorist, and inspirational speaker
entertained the crowd with humor woven into an inspiring presentation about the FIVE C’s - challenges, changes, choices, chuckles and celebrations. A fitting
presentation since The Chamber was celebrating eight individuals/businesses for their accomplishments by presenting eight awards at the luncheon.
A very special thank you to our Event Sponsor - Dr. Flippin’s Bed & Breakfast, WIFM 100.9 and Neighbors and to our Award Sponsors - Burke
Robertson & Associates, WorkForce Carolina, Greene Finance/Specialty Gifts, LLC, Surrey Bank & Trust and the Chamber Business Development
Committee.
Ambassador of the Year Award ….Scott Kniskern….Rogers Realty & Auction Co.
Award sponsored by Burke Robertson & Associates.
Business in Education Award…. Shelton Vineyard Inc.
Award sponsored by WorkForce Carolina.
Outstanding Public Service Award….Jeff Boyles…. City of Mount Airy.
Award sponsored by Greene Finance/Specialty Gifts, LLC.
Business Longevity Award .…The Mount Airy News
Award sponsored by Chamber Business Development Committee
Excellence in Travel & Tourism Award…. Robin Hester.…Sobotta Manor Bed & Breakfast
Award sponsored by Mount Airy Tourism Development Authority
Green Business Award….NCFI Polyurethanes
Green Small Business Award….Healthy Technologies, Inc.…Florene Miller
Small Business of the Year….Advanced Electronic Services
Award sponsored by Surrey Bank & Trust
Page 21
Chamber Holds Forty-Ninth Annual Meeting
The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce held their Forty-Ninth Annual Chamber Meeting on Thursday January 28, 2010 at Cross Creek Country
Club. The new 2010 Board of Directors & Officers was installed and retiring Board Members were recognized and thanked for their service to the Chamber.
Dr. George Sappenfield, Chairman of the Board 2009 reviewed the accomplishments of 2009 then turned the gavel over to incoming Chair for 2010, Britta
Needham. Continued focus on buying local and supporting fellow Chamber Business members, additional programs for young professionals, new efforts
to support the Surry County Economic Development Partnership and future business development, continued communication with membership and educational programs for the membership were highlights for the coming year delivered by 2010 Chair, Britta Needham in her acceptance speech to 230 Chamber
members in attendance.
Guest Speaker Kelly Swanson, a Comedian, Author, Entertainer, Motivational Speaker and Award-Winning Storyteller brought the house down with
roars of laughter as she entertained the crowd with humorist stories of her Southern life and how the “fairytale” that we all dream of, doesn’t always turn
out the way we had hoped. The outcome could in fact show us a new path for our interests and talents that might bring more enjoyment and fulfillment enabling us to give back ……with service and sense of pride for the accomplishments that were never part of the original fairytale.
The moment that many had waited for was the announcement of the Citizen of the Year Award and Teresa Lewis, President and Owner of WorkForce
Carolina, Inc. made the presentation keeping everyone in suspense until the final moment……the 2009 Citizen of the Year is……..Kate Appler!
Kate’s commitment to our community is evident in her years of selfless service, active involvement and leadership with so many local organizations
and clubs in the Mount Airy area. Kate’s contributions include; two terms on the Mount Airy Board of Education, longtime Mount Airy City School PTA
member and supporter, membership in the Mount Airy Rotary Club, active membership and service as a Sunday school teacher at Trinity Episcopal Church,
former President of the Surry County Humane Society; and past chairmanship of Mount Airy Relay for Life campaign. Chairing the beginning stages of a
campaign for the Mountain Valley Hospice, serving as a Boy Scout leader, a member of the Chamber’s Education Support Committee, past Board Member
of the Surry Arts Council, Member of the first Young Life Committee, Curator of History at the Mount Airy Museum of Regional History, and Executive
Director for the United Fund of Surry which brings financial aid to 30 local services and organizations in Surry County. Kate has personally remained active participating in local plays at the Andy Griffith Playhouse, and Frank Levering plays at the Levering Orchards, and was a charter member of the vocal
group, Voce’.
Kate was obviously humbled and without words. She did manage to say that this community is incredible and thanked everyone. As she returned to her
seat she was surprised again by presence of The Applier’s three sons; Holden, Hunter and Harry, who had secretly arrived without her knowledge. A moment that likely was the most heartfelt of all! Congratulations Kate and thank you for your tireless service to making this community the best it can be!
It was a fun and up-beat evening of seasoned and new Chamber Members, where you could begin to build new relationships and renew existing relationships. The evening could not have been a success without the support of our sponsors; Event Sponsor – RBC Bank, Associate Sponsors; BB&T, BB&T
Blue Ridge Burke Insurance, CenturyLink, SouthData, Inc., The Mount Airy Newspapers, Inc., Haynes Strand & Company, PLLC, Northern
Hospital of Surry County, WorkForce Carolina, Inc. Citizen of the Year Award Sponsor – WorkForce Carolina, Inc., Wine Sponsor – Shelton Vineyards, Annual Report Sponsor – Kelly Office Solutions and to The Mount Airy Newspapers Inc. for the publication of the 2010 Business Membership
Directory. And Special Thanks to; Cross Creek Country Club, Brown Communications, WSYD Radio, WIFM Radio and to all of our members who
attended.Not a Chamber Member and want to get involved with the largest and most active business group in this area? Contact Tanya Taylor, Membership
& Communication Director at 336-786-6116 x 4.
Page
22
Page 23
Thinking about starting a new business?
Idea Evaluation Checklist:
4
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4
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4
4
Have you considered all the advantages or benefits of the idea? Is there a real need for it?
Have you pinpointed the exact problems or difficulties your idea is expected to solve?
Is your idea an original, new concept, or is it a new combination or adaptation?
What immediate or short-range gains or results can be anticipated? Are the projected returns adequate? Are the risk factors acceptable?
What long-range benefits can be anticipated?
Have you checked the idea for faults or limitations?
Are there any problems the idea might create? What are the changes involved?
How simple or complex will the idea’s execution or implementation be?
Could you work out several variations of the idea? Could you offer alternative ideas?
Does your idea have a natural sales appeal? Is the market ready for it? Can customers afford it? Will they buy it? Is there a timing factor?
What, if anything, is your competition doing in this area? Can your company be competitive?
Have you considered the possibility of user resistance or difficulties?
Does your idea fill a real need, or does the need have to be created through promotional and advertising efforts?
How soon could the idea be put into operation?
Location Worksheet
Is the facility located in an area zoned for your type of business?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is the facility large enough for your business?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Does it meet your layout requirements?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Are the exterior and interior of the building in a good state of repair?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Are the lease terms and rent favorable?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Will you have to make any leasehold improvements?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Do the existing utilities meet your needs, or will you have to do any rewiring or
plumbing work? Is ventilation adequate?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is the facility easily accessible to your potential clients or customers?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is there suitable parking, is it free or paid, and does this impact your business?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
If applicable, is there good access to public transportation?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Can suppliers make deliveries conveniently at this location?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Can you find a number of qualified employees in the area in which the facility is
located?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is the location convenient to where you live?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is the facility consistent with the image you would like to maintain? Does it have
“curb appeal”?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is there suitable space for exterior or interior signage, and will local ordinance
permit the type of signage you want to install?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is the facility located in a safe neighborhood with a low crime rate? Will crime
insurance be prohibitively expensive?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is exterior lighting in the area adequate to attract evening shoppers and make
them feel safe?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Are neighboring businesses likely to attract customers who will also patronize
your business?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Are there any competitors located close to the facility? If so, can you compete
with them successfully?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Do pedestrian and passing motorist traffic counts meet your requirements?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is the store located in an area comprised mainly of your target audience?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is the population density of the area sufficient for your sales needs?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Is the trade area heavily dependent on seasonal business?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
If your business expands in the future, will the facility be able to accommodate
this growth?
Strength_________________________________________________________
Weakness_______________________________________________________
Page 24
Thinking of Purchasing an Existing Business?
Business Evaluation Checklist:
Use this extensive checklist to make sure you get answers to all your important questions before you purchase a business.
4 Why does the current owner want to sell the business?
4 What type of growth potential does this business have?
4 If the business is in decline, will you be able to save it and make it successful?
4 Is the business in sound financial condition? Have you seen audited year-end financial statements for the business? Have you reviewed the
4
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most recent statements? Have you reviewed the business’s last five tax returns?
Have you seen copies of all of the business’s current contracts?
Have you planned any sales promotions?
Have you planned a publicity campaign?
Is the business now, or has it ever been, under investigation by any government agency? If so, what is the status of any current investigation?
What were the results of any past investigation?
Is the business currently involved in a lawsuit, or has it ever been involved in one? If so, what is the status or result?
Does the business have any debts or liens against it? If so, what are they for, and in what amounts?
What percentage of the business’s accounts are past due? How much does the business write off each year for bad debts?
How many customers does the business serve on a regular basis?
Who makes up the market for this business? Where are your customers located? Do they all come from your community or from across the
state, or are they spread across the globe?
Does the amount business vary from season to season?
Does any single customer account for a large portion of the sales volume? If so, would the business be able to survive without this customer?
Remember, the larger the customer base is, the more easily you will be able to survive the loss of any customers. If, on the other hand, the
business exists mainly to serve a single client, the loss of that client could be catastrophic.
How does the business market its products or services? Does its competition use the same methods? If not, what methods does the
competition use? How successful are they?
Does the business have exclusive rights to market any particular products or services? If so, how has it obtained this exclusively? Is it making
the best possible use of this exclusivity? Do you have written proof that the current business owner can transfer this exclusivity to you?
Does the business hold patents for any of its products? Which ones? What percentage of gross sales do they represent? Would the sale of
the business include the sale of any patents?
Are the business” supplies, merchandise, and other materials available from several suppliers, or are there only a handful who can meet your
needs? If you lost the business’ current supplier, what impact would that loss have on your business? Would you be able to find substitute
goods of the appropriate quality and price?
Are any of the business’ products in danger of becoming obsolete or of going out of style? Is it a “fad” business?
What is the business’ market share?
What competition does the business face? How can the business compete successfully? Have the business’ competitors changed recently?
Have any of them gone out of business, for instance?
Does the business have all the equipment necessary? Will you need to add or update any equipment?
What is the business’ current inventory worth? Will you be able to use any of this inventory, or is it inconsistent with your intended
product line?
How many employees does the business have? What positions do they hold?
Does the business pay its employees high wages, or are the wages average or low?
Does the business experience high employee turnover? If so, why?
What benefits does the business offer its employees?
How long have the company’s top managers been with the company?
Will the change of ownership cause any changes in personnel?
Which employees are the most important to the company?
Do any of the business’ employees belong to any unions?
Page 25
Are You Ready To Market Your Business?
Advertising Checklist:
Overview
4 Have your defined your advertising objectives and written them down?
4 What exactly do you want to communicate to your potential customers?
4 How will you measure the effectiveness of your ad?
4 Are you communicating buyer benefits?
4 Have you strategized an advertising campaign?
4 Is the timing right?
4 Do you have a planned advertising budget?
4 Are you prepared for a successful response?
4 Have you asked suppliers about cooperative programs?
4 Have you made sure that employees (if any) are informed of your goals?
4 Have all appropriate employees reviewed your advertising and approved of it?
4 What is your lead time for ad placement? Some newspapers require only a few days; some magazines require two months or longer.
Specifics
4 Does your ad present a central idea or theme?
4 Does your message require a response?
4 Have you told customers where and how to reach you?
4 Is your ad clear and concise?
4 Is your ad consistent with your desired business image?
Files
4 Are you keeping files on all aspects of each ad?
4 Where did the ad run? What were the results? (Number of sales? Sales increases?)
4 Have you reflected/brainstormed/evaluated?
4 What variables (weather; competition, etc.) have your targeted for further study?
Competitors and Customers
4 Are you watching competitors? (If advertisers repeat ads, try to determine why.)
4 Are you listening to your customers? What do they want? What’s important to them?
4 What media are most cost-effective to reach your customers?
Marketing Campaign Planning Checklist:
4 Have you analyzed the market for your product or service? Do you know which features of your product or service will appeal to
4
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different market segments?
In forming your marketing message, have you described how your product or service will benefit your clients?
Have you prepared a pricing schedule? What kinds of discounts do you offer, and to whom do you offer them?
Have you prepared a sales forecast?
What type of media will you use in your marketing campaign?
Have you planned any sales promotions?
Have you planned a publicity campaign?
Do your marketing materials mention any optional accessories or added services that consumers might want to purchase?
If you offer a product, have you prepared clear operating and assembly instructions? What kind of warranty do you provide?
What type of customer service or support do you offer after the sale?
Do you have product liability insurance?
Is your style of packaging likely to appeal to your target market?
If your product is one you can patent, have you done so?
How will you distribute your product?
Have you prepared job descriptions for all of the employees needed to carry out your marketing plans?
Page 26
Starting a New Business
Prospective business owners must contact the following offices
before receiving a license.
New business owners should also contact the
following offices for the reasons stated:
Privilege License (Local Business)
300 S Main Street (2nd Floor) • Mount Airy, NC 27030
Phone: (336) 786-3509
All businesses must obtain a license to operate in the City limits
Register of Deeds
201 E Kapp Street • Dobson, NC 27017
Phone: (336) 401-8150
To register the name of your business
Planning Department/Zoning
Phone: (336) 786-3520
All businesses must meet zoning regulations
Surry County Health & Nutrition Center
Environmental Health
118 Hamby Road • Dobson, NC 27017
Phone: (336) 401-8325
The sale of food items may require a sanitation inspection
ABC Commission (ABC permit)
3322 Garner Road • Raleigh, NC 27610
Phone: (919) 779-0700
To receive paperwork on obtaining a permit to sale alcoholic
beverages.
NC Department of Revenue
8025 North Pointe Boulevard, Ste 250 • Winston Salem, NC 27106
Phone: (336) 896-7024 Hours 8:00 a.m-4:30 p.m.
To get a state sales tax number for the purpose of tracking sales tax
Internal Revenue Service
Phone: (800) 829-1040
To get a Federal I.D. number
Business Personal Property Listing
201 E Kapp Street • Dobson, NC 27017
Phone: (336) 401-8115
To list business assets for property tax
(in January of each year)
Room Occupancy Tax
Phone: (336) 786-3509
For hotel, motel, or bed & breakfast
City Fire Inspections
439 Rockford Street
Phone: (336) 786-3570
Businesses inside the city limits need fire
inspection to assure compliance with fire codes
Rental Vehicle Tax
Phone: (336) 786-3509
For businesses providing short-term leased or rental vehicles
Demographic Snapshot
Mount Airy Dobson Elkin Pilot Mountain April 2000 8,484 1,457 4,036 1,281 Surry County 71,209 Population Data
July 2008 Amount 10,907 2,423 1,511 54 4,133 97 1,296 15 73,388 Growth
%
28.56
3.71
2.40
1.17
2,179 3.06
Chamber Members who rank as Top Employers in Surry County, NC
Company Industry
* Pike Electric Corporation Energy Solutions Construction
* Surry County Board of Education Education
* Wayne Farms, LLC Poultry Producer
* Wal-Mart Retail Trade
* Northern Hospital of Surry County Health Services
* Surry Community College Education
* Hanesbrands, Inc. Textile Manufacturing
* Workforce Caroline Inc. Professional Services
* Renfro Corporation Hosiery Manufacturing
* Mount Airy City Schools Education
* Lowes Home Centers Inc. Retail Trade
* Food Lion LLC Retail Trade
* City of Mount Airy Public Administration
* L.S. Starrett Company Precision Tool Manufacturing
* Insteel Industries Inc. Wire Product Manufacturing
* Lowes Food Stores Inc. Retail Trade
Web Resources for Business
SCORE
www.score.org
N.C. Department of Commerce
http://www.nccommerce.com/en
N.C. Rural Center
http://www.ncruralcenter.org/
N.C. Business and Technology Development
Center
http://www.sbtdc.org/
Piedmont Triad Partnership
http://www.piedmonttriadnc.com/
N.C. Military Business Center
http://www.ncmbc.us/
N.C. Institute of Minority Economic Development
http://www.ncimed.com/
U.S. Small Business Administration
http://www.sba.gov/
National Association of Development
Companies
http://www.nadco.org/
Northwest Piedmont Development Corporation
http://www.nwpcog.org
Surry County Demographics- Hosted by
Northwest Piedmont Council of Governments
http://www.nwpcog.org/datacenter/web.
cfm?CID=87
City of Mount Airy
http://www.mountairy.org/
Surry County
http://www.co.surry.nc.us/
Surry County Economic Development
Partnership
http://www.surryedp.com/
Town of Dobson
http://www.townofdobson.com/
Town of Pilot Mountain
http://www.townofpilotmountain.com/
Town of Elkin
http://www.elkinnc.org/
Internal Revenue Service
http://www.irs.gov/
Page 27
TOURISM REPORT
Visitors Center Stats-(November 2005-April 2010)
2005
January
February
March
April
May
June
July August
September
809
October
1,554
November
768
December
519
TOTAL
3650
2006
567
640
1,162
1,492
2,114
2,334
5,815
3,508
4,450
6,257
1,414
1,147
TOTAL
30900
2007
799
732
1,681
2,749
5,161
5,297
7,439
7,352
7,607
9,482
3,399
1,821
TOTAL
53519
2008
1,288
2,054
3,643
5,405
5,436
7,560
9,461
6,843
6,683
8,286
2,744
2,240
TOTAL
61,643
2009
2010
1,642
1,459
2,085
1,651
3,141
4,245
5,502
6,346
6,481
6,717
8,909
6,960
7,950
11,977
3,906
1,955
TOTAL
TOTAL
67,225
13,701
ALL VISITORS SINCE NOVEMBER 2005-Since Chamber became
Visitors Center: 230,638
OCCUPANCY TAX COLLECTION
The occupancy Tax collections have been positively climbing since November
2009. In Nov 2009 the collections were up 15.61% from the previous year, Dec
2009 up 17.70% from the previous year, Jan 2010 up 2.34% from the previous
year and up in Feb 2010 17.73% from the previous year.
No Yard Mowing!
IMPORTANT TOURISM INFORMATION
Tourism is Economic Development generating jobs and taxes based on Tourism Impact Numbers that Governor Perdue released this year in August 2009.
Visitor Spending rose in 62 N.C. Counties out of 100 Counties in 2008 including Surry County! Visitor Spending in Surry County moved us up in ranking
from 40th to 39th in Tourism Spending in 2008 from 2007.
Domestic visitors to Surry County spent $87 Million in 2008, an increase of
4.4% from 2007.
Every dollar spent on Tourism generates between $8-$12 in the Community which makes tourism a net tax generator! Tourism generates additional
tax revenue that helps to fund infrastructure and creates jobs. Tourism also
creates Tourism Tax ReliefThe travel and tourism industry directly employees
more than 720 people in Surry County.
Total payroll generated by the tourism industry in Surry county was 13.45
Million.
Tourism generates jobs that will never be exported or leave the area.
Vietnam Veterans Reunion 2010-Surry County-
Vietnam Veterans of America-Granite City Chapter 1021 will be hosting the Vietnam Veterans of America for a 3-4 Day Weekend June 1013, 2010 in Surry County. This event could have up to 1,000 people in
town for the weekend. This event will also include the Vietnam Veterans
Traveling Wall that will be here on display here during the Veterans
Reunion.
GREYSTONE CONDOMINIUMS
Call Rogers Realty at 789-2926
to start relaxing today!
“The Performance People”
1310 EMS Drive • 336-789-2926 • 1-800-442-7906
www.rogersrealty.com
VISIT US ONLINE
WWW.MTAIRYNCCHAMBER.ORG AND
WWW.VISITMAYBERRY.COM
THE GREATER MOUNT AIRY CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE IS NOW ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM
UNDER MOUNT AIRY CHAMBER.
BUY LOCAL!
SUPPORT CHAMBER MEMBERS!
Chamber members are investing
in the growth of YOUR community.
JOIN TOGETHER WITH THE
GREATER MOUNT AIRY
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
WHERE THERE IS...
STRENGTH IN
NUMBERS!
The Mission of the
Greater Mount Airy
Chamber of Commerce
is to advance, promote
and encourage
successful business
growth for our members.
200 N. Main St. Mount Airy, N.C. 27030
336-786-6116 Main
336-786-1488 Fax
Betty Ann Collins - President
Email: [email protected]
Main Line Extension 6
Yvonne Nichols - Executive Assistant and Autumn Leaves Festival Director
Jessica Icenhour - Tourism Director
Tanya Taylor - Membership and Communication Director
Fawn Shaw - Visitor Specialist
Main Line

April 2010 - Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce

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