Fall Chamber Pages - Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce

Transcription

CHAMBER
CONNECTIONS
November 2010
www.mtairyncchamber.org
One of the greatest joys of living in a small town is community involvement.
“Sense of community” defines us in The Greater Mount Airy Area. We can
be aggressive in this economy by investing in our community. We must be
enthusiastic and determined to ensure that Surry County is a progressive force in
economic growth.
You may ask, “I am just one person…or one business, how can I make an
impact?” You can and do have a voice! Working together as a community is
essential for vital growth and stability of our business community. Our
Chamber Members are investing in local business growth. Local Business to
Business purchases contribute to a strong economic impact for our community.
Being a Chamber member means keeping our dollars here. Over all small
businesses employ the majority of our employment base. By supporting local
businesses and Chamber Members first, your are keeping the majority of
dollars in our community.
You just finished casting your vote for the candidate of your choice. It is
significantly more important now, more than ever, to vote for your community
with your “economic vote” … your dollars! Together we can stand strong for
a thriving and prosperous community.
Remember to STOP… THINK…COMMIT! ….
BUY LOCAL and SUPPORT CHAMBER MEMBERS F1R$T!
IN THIS ISSUE
Our Members ................................................................................. 2-4
New Members ................................................................................ 5-6
Getting to Know You ......................................................................... 7
Flocking Victim of the Week ........................................................ 8-10
Ribbon Cuttings/Grand Openings ............................................ 11-14
Business After Hours ................................................................. 15-17
Surprise Patrol ............................................................................ 18-21
Local Economy .......................................................................... 22-23
Speed Networking ........................................................................... 24
Tourism ..............................................................................................25
Autumn Leaves Festival .................................................................. 26
Chamber Contact Info ..................................................................... 28
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)
britta.needham@rbc.com
Chair-Elect
Gary Lawrence
Mount Airy Newspapers, Inc.
319 Renfro Street
336-786-4141 • 336-789-2816 (fax)
glawrence@heartlandpublications.com
Traci Hamilton
Workforce Carolina
711 Independence Blvd.
336-789-8220 • 336-789-0561
thamilton@workforcecarolina.com
Dennis Lowe
Lowe Consulting
6921 West Pine Street
Lowgap, NC 27024
336-352-3228
lowed@surry.net
Doug Norman
The North Carolina Granite Corporation
151 Granite Quarry Trail
336-786-5141 • 336-719-2623 (fax)
doug@ncgranite.com
Chamber Staff
Chad Stafford
Haynes, Strand Co. PLLC
400 S. South Street
336-789-8989 • 336-789-6314 (fax)
chadstafford@haynesstrand.com
David O’Neal
Leonard Buildings
566 Holy Springs Road
Mount Airy, NC 27030
336- 789-5018 • 336-789-7314 (fax)
doneal@leonardusa.com
Todd Tucker, President
SCEDP
118 Hamby Road-Suite 146
Dobson, N.C. 27017
336-401-0990 • 336-401-9901 (fax)
toddtucker@surry.net
Betty Ann Collins
Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce
200 N. Main Street
336-786-6116 • 336-786-1488 (fax)
president1@mtairyncchamber.org
Matthew Edwards
Mount Airy Museum of
Regional History
336- 786-4478 • 336- 786-1666 (fax)
mjedwards@northcarolinamuseum.org
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)
sappeng@surry.edu
Thomas Greenwood
Blue Ridge Enterprises, Inc.
1120 West Lebanon Street
336-789-2134 • 336-789-3084 (fax)
tgreenwood@bre-inc.com
Karen Hardy
Wayne Farms
802 East Atkins Street
Dobson, NC 27017
336-386-8151 • 336) 386-8822 (fax)
karen.hardy@waynefarms.com
Jeff Gordon
Haynes, Strand & Co. PLLC
400 S. South Street
336-789-8989 • 336-789-6314 (fax)
jeffgordon@haynesstrand.com
Nick Patel
Quality Inn
2136 Rockford Street
336-789-2000 • 336-789-7917 (fax)
nishant235@yahoo.com
Hugh Campbell
Gardner, Gardner & Campbell, PLLC
304 Franklin Street
336-789-8120 • 336- 789-5506 (fax)
hugh@gardnerfirm.com
Ex-Officio Board Members
Deborah Cochran, Mayor
City of Mount Airy
P.O. Box 70
336-786-3504 • 336-719-7506 (fax)
dcochran@mountairy.org
Dennis Thompson, County Manager
Surry County Government Center
418 Hamby Road, Suite 329
Dobson, N.C. 27017
336-401-8201 • 336-401-8216 (fax)
thompsond@co.surry.nc.us
Betty Ann Collins
President
Jessica Icenhour
Director of Tourism
Yvonne Nichols
Executive Assistant/Festival Director
200 N. Main Street
Toll Free: 800-948-0949
Local: 336-786-6116 ext 6
Fax: 336-786-1488
president1@mtairyncchamber.org
200 N. Main Street
Toll Free: 800-948-0949
Local: 336-786-6116 ext. 3
Fax: 336-786-1488
tourism@visitmayberry.com
www.visitmayberry.com
200 N. Main Street
Toll Free: 800-948-0949
Local: 336-786-6116 ext. 5
Fax: 336-786-1488
admin@mtairyncchamber.org
Page 2
Tanya Taylor
Membership and
Communication Director
200 N. Main Street
Toll Free: 800-948-0949
Local: 336-786-6116 ext 4
Fax: 336-786-1488
membership@mtairyncchamber.org
Visit Mount Airy Chamber at
www.facebook.com
www.mtairyncchamber.org
Fawn Shaw
Visitor Specialist and Receptionist
336-786-6116
reception@mtairyncchamber.org
Listing by Company Name
13 Bones, LLC
19th Pub at The Lodge at Primland
1st Choice Mortgage
A Cleaner World
Aaron's Sales and Leasing
Acme Stone Company, Inc.
Advanced Electronics, Inc. (AT&T Retailer)
Advanced Compressor Technology, Inc.
Advanced Electronic Services, Inc.
Airmont Florist & Gift Shop
Allstate Insurance/Tonda Phillips Corporation
American Healthcare Services, Inc.
AmeriGas Propane LP
Animal Medical Services
Applied Copier Concepts
B & B Produce
B. M. Sumner, Jr. DDS
B.H. Tharrington Primary School
Back Home Country Store
Bailey , Peoples & Oghalai Drs., PA
Barney's Cafe
Bayada Nurses
BB&T Blue Ridge Burke
Bear Creek Gifts, LLC
Before N After Construction
Bel-Vue Trophy
Belk Stores
Beroth Oil Company
Better Business Bureau of Northwest North Carolina
Big Sheep Communications
Blevins Workshop, Inc.
Blue Ridge CareNet Counseling Center
Blue Ridge Concrete Products, Inc.
Blue Ridge Enterprises
Blue Ridge Manor Bed and Breakfast
Blue Ridge Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, P.A.
BNI Platinum Producers
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 Center Homes
Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropratic
Christian Outfitters
City of Mount Airy
CK Technologies, LLC SE
Clear Channel Radio
Coca Cola Bottling Company
Collins Pest Control, Inc.
Comfort Keepers
Commercial Air Systems, Inc.
Congresswoman-Virginia Fox
ConnXctions Consultant
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.
Day Trips & Tours
Debbie Blinkhorn
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.
Elements at the Lodge at Primland
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
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
Glenwood Development Company
Globe Tobacco Lofts
Golden Living Center
Golding Transport, Inc.
Goodwill Industries of Northwest NC, Inc.
Granite City Construction Company, Inc.
Granite City Insulation
Granite Development, LLC
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&M Motors Inc.
H. Lee Merritt, Attorneys at Law
Hampton Inn & Suites Shelton Vineyards
Hampton Inn of Mount Airy
Hanesbrands Inc.
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
Jantec Neon Products
John Jackson
John L. Gravitte, DDS, PA
John S. Clark Company, LLC
Johnson Granite, Inc.
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
Leonard Buildings and Truck Accessories
Leonard's Jewelers
Let's ParTea with La'Teah
Liberty Business Partners
Liberty HomeCare
Ligon Electric Supply
Little Richards BBQ
Loftis HVAC Company, Inc.
Lorene's Bakery & Catering
Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse
Lowes Foods #143
Lucky Bones Country Club
Lydens Associates
M & M Granite, Inc.
M & M Signs, Inc.
Mac Papers, Inc.
Main-Oak Emporium
Major Graham Mansion
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
Our
existing
membership
that is
investing
into the
Chamber
and our
Community
Page 3
Listing by Company Name
Our
existing
membership
that is
investing
into the
Chamber
and our
Community
Page 4
Mayberry Campground
Mayberry Carports
Mayberry Cheese and Cider Country Store
Mayberry Coffee Company
Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs
Mayberry Heating and Air Conditioning
Mayberry Motor Inn
Mayberry Pharmacy
Mayberry Trading Post
Meadowview Middle School
Mickey W. Kiger, CLU
Millennium Charter Academy
Mills, Lee Construction Company
Mister Sparky
Moody Funeral Services
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Mount Airy Bike Rentals
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 Jaycees
Mount Airy Junior Woman's Club
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 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 Florist
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
Neighbors Stores, Inc.
Nester Hosiery, Inc.
Network Dynamics, Inc.
New Image Weight Loss & Wellness
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.
Paychex, 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 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
Pilot Mountain Pride
Pine State Marketing, Inc.
Pioneer Printing Company
Premium Tobacco Company U.S., Inc.
Primland Resort
Professional Networks, Inc.
Quality Inn & Suites
Quality Inn (Mount Airy)
Quality Termite & Pest Control
Rabbit Ridge Enterprises
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
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)
Subway (601)
Subway (Pine Street)
Subway (South Main St.)
Subway (Walmart)
Sunset Slush of the Foothills
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 Insurance
Surry Port-a-John Service, Inc.
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 HR Group
The Joan & Howard Woltz Hospice Home
The Optical Place, Inc.
The Spa at Primland
This 'N That
Thomas House Bed & Breakfast
Time Systems Inc.
Titans of Taste
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
Trio Restaurant and Bar
U.S. Cellular
United Fund of Surry, Inc
United Plumbing Supply
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
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
Wound-About, Inc.
WPAQ Radio
Wyatt's Trading Post, Inc.
Yadkin Valley Cabinet Company, INC
Yadkin Valley Wine Trail
YVEDDI
Zach Blackmon Jr.
Please help us welcome
our New 2010
Chamber Members!
Member Name
Local Phone
Fax
Address1
Address2
City & State
1st Choice Mortgage
(336) 786-7900
(336) 786-6188
2133 Rockford Street
Suite 400
Mount Airy NC 27030
131 W. Lebanon Street
Mount Airy N.C. 27030
(336) 374-5184
P.O. Box 1673
Mount Airy NC 27030
P.O. Box 238
Pilot Mountain NC 27041
www.highcountrysprings.com
Adam Tucker
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.hiexpress.com/mountairync
Trudy Willard
Carol Burke
(336) 786-5155
Easter Transportation, Inc.
(376) 374-3106
High Country Springs Bottle Water
(336) 374-7474
(336) 719-1731
(336) 719-1732
1320 EMS Drive
(336) 789-1728
235 N. Main Street
Pages Books & Coffee
(336) 789-3363
Raynelle Hamblin
(336) 386-4440
The Joan & Howard Woltz Hospice Home
(336) 356-5000
Griffith Auto Shop & Car Sales
URL
PrimaryRep
Sandra Richards
Teddy Guynn
Mount Airy NC 27030
Sandy Gwyn
131 Stratford Place
Suite 101
Dobson NC 27017
(336) 356-5001
401 Technology lane,
Suite 200
Mount Airy NC 27030
(336) 374-8332
(336) 320-2912
796 Fannie Simmons Rd
Mountain Valley Hospice & Palliative Care (Elkin)
(336) 526-2650
(336) 526-2370
401 Technology Lane
Let's ParTea with La'Teah
(336) 351-5287
1238 Flippin Road
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.letspartea.info
La'Teah Santucci
State Farm Insurance Company (GE)
(336) 789-8893
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.statefarm.com
Jeunesse Wright
Winding Creek Design
(336) 719-2254
P.O. Box 282
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.windingcreekdesign.com
Glenn Springthorpe
(877) 424-8831
Raynelle Hamblin
www.woltzhospicehome.org
Mount Airy NC 27030
Suite 200
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mary Beth Wood
William Griffith
www.mtnvalleyhospice.org
(336) 786-1922
(336) 786-1923
131 West Lebanon Street
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.blueridgecarenetcounseling.org
Laurel Link
Catalina Tempering
(336) 719-6857
(336) 719-6873
630 Derby Street
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.glasswerks.com
Todd French
(336) 719-6915
905 Rockford Street
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.blueridgemd.com
Pam Vybiral
433 N. Main Street
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.scarletbegonias.com
Amy Slate
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.christianoutfitters.com
(336) 719-2440
Scarlet Begonias
(336) 789-9001
Christian Outfitters
(336) 786-1844
(336) 526-4300
Mount Airy Restoration Foundation/Moore House
(336) 789-7988
279 Hickory Street
(336) 526-5350
Suite 400
Brian Tilley
660 Parkwood Medical Park
Elkin NC 28621
Darryl Rhyne
P.O. Box 447
Mount Airy NC 27030
751 Mountain View Lane
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.centralstatesmfg.com
www.amtamembers.com/krystalstarjones/ Krystal Jones
Betty Wright
Charlie Cox
Krystal S. Jones Massage Therapy LMBT NC#7769
(336) 710-8190
213 Hamlin Ford Rd
Dobson NC 27017
Surrey Emporium
(336) 786-4398
220 N. Main Street
Mount Airy NC 27030
ConnXctions Consultant
(336) 239-1450
110 S. Main St.
Mount Airy NC 27030
Bayada Nurses
(336) 835-8500
(336) 835-3510
1814 N. Bridge Street
Elkin NC 28621
www.bayada.com
Allison Swisher
Easter Seals UCP NC and VA
(336) 789-9492
(336) 789-9587
414 West Lebanon St
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.nc.easterseals.com
Kathy McGuire
www.yadtelnetworks.com
Bambi Craver
Jerry Caudle
Claudia Stowers
Karen Perkins-Biscoe
Tammy M. McCrary Licensed Massage
(336) 403-8213
243 Old Greenhill Rd
Mount Airy NC 27030
The Data Center Inc./Yadtel Networks
& Bodywork Therapist NC#7779
(336) 463-5075
P.O. Box 368
Yadkinville NC 27055
Tammy McCrary
165 N. Main Street
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.bearcreekfudgefactory.com
463 Homestead Lane
Critz VA 24082
www.reynoldshomestead.vt.edu
Bear Creek Gifts, LLC
(336) 786-6602
Reynolds Homestead Continuing Ed Center
(276) 694-7181
Rolling Hills Farms
(336) 352-3009
252 Heart Lane
Mount Airy NC 27030
Randy and Angela Shur
Mount Airy Farmer's Market
(336) 745-5166
253 Heart Lane
Mount Airy NC 27030
Randy Shur
(276) 694-7183
Kay Dunkley
Titans of Taste
(336) 710-7313
1104 Holly Springs Road
Mount Airy NC 27030
Applied Copier Concepts
(336) 632-9285
(336) 632-1008
P.O. Box 18606
Greensboro NC 7419
www.digitalacc.com
Danny Speer
Bill White
(336) 444-8000
(336) 444-8001
P.O. Box 1041
www.pilotmountainpride.com
Chuck Boles
Blue Ridge Manor Bed and Breakfast
(276) 755-2118
(775) 703-9671
90 McAyers Road
Cana VA 24317
www.blueridgemanorbnb.com
Darlene Juliana
P.O. Box 1182
Mountain Valley Florist
(336) 368-5388
U.S. Cellular
(336) 719-7980
(336) 719-7985
692 South Andy Griffith Parkway Suite 105 Mount Airy NC 27030
www.uscellular.com
Rod and Lisa Lyon
Toney Parks
13 Bones, LLC
(336) 786-1313
(336) 786-5498
502 S. Andy Griffith Pkway
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.eat13bones.com
Andy Reece
Mayberry Cheese and Cider Country Store
(336) 786-9000
P.O. Box 6126
Mount Airy NC 27030
www.mayberrybeverage.com
Ron and Yvonne Marion
Page 5
Please help us welcome
our New 2010
Chamber Members!
Member Name
Trio Restaurant and Bar
Mount Airy Bike Rentals
19th Pub at The Lodge at Primland
Elements at the Lodge at Primland
The Spa at Primland
Choice Center Homes
Paychex, Inc.
Wyatt's Trading Post, Inc.
Acme Stone Company, Inc.
Lucky Bones Country Club
Rabbit Ridge Enterprises
The HR Group
Mayberry Heating and Air Conditioning
Debbie Blinkhorn
Mayberry Trading Post
H&M Motors Inc.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Back Home Country Store
Mount Airy Junior Woman's Club
United Plumbing Supply
Nester Hosiery, Inc.
Wound-About, Inc.
Mount Airy Jaycees
Glenwood Development Company
Subway (601)
Subway (Pine Street)
Subway (South Main St.)
(336) 786-8394
(336) 789-0026
(336) 368-5001
(336) 320-2852
(704) 996-2760
(336) 789-0800
(336) 789-1184
(336) 789-1184
Subway (Walmart)
(336) 789-4630
Page 6
Local Phone
(336) 719-0131
(336) 786-8313
(276) 222-3807
(276) 222-3800
(276) 222-3999
(336) 789-6248
336-841-5600 ext 24387
(336) 719-0340
(336) 789-7700
(336) 786-6978
(336) 719-2259
(276) 251-1178
(336) 401-2639
(336) 786-9480
(803) 243-1838
(336) 786-7294
(336) 368-4003
(704) 571-3369
(336) 719-0418
Fax
(336) 789-2446
(276) 222-3999
(276) 222-3800
(336) 789-9048
(877) 436-3162
(336) 789-5800
(336) 786-9787
(336) 719-2205
(276) 251-5457
(704) 571-3300
(336) 789-7241
(336) 789-0626
(336) 368-5003
(704) 897-1401
(336) 789-1184
Address1
Address2
247 City Hall Street
116 Melissa Drive
2000 Busted Rock Road
1129 N. Andy Griffith Parkway
4015 Meeting Way
Suite 101
153 N. Main Street
705 W. Pine Street
P. O. Box 925
680 Riverside Drive
1251 Rabbit Ridge Road
216 S. Swing Road
Suite 4
2135 Riverside Drive
100 N. Main St.
P.O. Box 1083
P.O. Box 11429
825 W. Pine Street
P.O. Box 893
P.O. Box 1343
P.O. Box 201
1217 Mitchell Street
9525 Birkdale Crossing Drive Suite 200
701 W. Pine Street
701 W. Pine Street
701 West Pine Street
City & State
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Meadows of Dan Va 24120
Mount Airy NC 27030
High Point NC 27265
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Ararat VA 24053
Greensboro NC 27409
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Charlotte NC 28203
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Westfield NC 27053
Mount Airy NC 27030
Huntersville NC 27078
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
Mount Airy NC 27030
701 W. Pine Street
Mount Airy NC 27030
URL
www.triorestaurantandbar.com
www.visitmayberry.com
www.primland.com
www.primland.com
www.primland.com
www.choicecenterhomes.com
www.paychex.com
www.wyattstradingpost.com
www.acmestonenc.com
www.luckybonescountryclub.com
www.rabbitridge.com
www.thehrgroupinc.net
www.handmmotors.com
http://fa.smithbarney.com/geoffowen
www.majwc.org
www.hajoca.com
www.nesterhosiery.com
www.woundabout.com
www.glenwoodco.com
PrimaryRep
Chris Wishart
Marissa Cockerham
Brooks Bradbury
Brooks Bradbury
Brooks Bradbury
Susie Sutherin
Wes Snyder
Todd and Melissa Tharpe
Melissa Wyatt
Cathy Stevens
Shelby Boyles
Merlin Scales
Julie Perkins
Dennis Sechrist
Debbie Blinkhorn
Christy Prewitt
Michael Hege
Geoffrey Owen
Thomas Ramey
Mandy Fleming
Kevin Haynes
Tammy Jenkins
Kyle Wallace
Dena Wood
Kevin McCluskey
Bill Juno
Bill Juno
Bill Juno
Bill Juno
Getting to Know You SPOTLIGHT
Kenny Meredith, Chief Financial Officer of SouthData
“It is important to be involved in the Chamber and other community organizations because it enhances our community’s quality of life.”
Involved, Kenny has been! When he is not crunching numbers at SouthData… he is using his knowledge and talents to give back to
his community, his family, and his church. It is always wonderful to see business leaders passionate about their community. Kenny is
passionate and not your stereotypical accountant. He has a fun personality with a cute, witty sense of humor. Kenny always has a
smile on his face and welcomes the next conversation. We have thoroughly enjoyed Kenny’s participation and involvement in the
Chamber!
Kenny supports local businesses and is often seen networking with other Chamber members at Business After Hours and other
Chamber Events. Kenny feels the Chamber serves as an important networking and marketing arm for the business community.
Those opportunities provide him with a chance to meet and work with other outstanding organizations and companies. “I contribute
my success from hard work and being able to work with successful, community-minded business leaders.” said Kenny.
Kenny has served as the treasurer of both the Chamber and the United Fund of Surry. He has held a seat on the Administrative
Council and currently serves as the Staff Parish Chairperson at First United Methodist Church in Pilot Mountain. For the past 6
years he has been seen on the court sidelines coaching an AAU basketball team. Kenny also coaches recreational teams for the Armfield Civic Center.
Kenny grew up in Fancy Gap, VA but, has not been a stranger to Mount Airy. “Mount Airy was always our place to do our shopping and running around.” Kenny Graduated from Carroll County High School then attended Emory & Henry College obtaining a
degree in Accounting. For the past 23 years he has lived in Pilot Mountain. He and his wife Barbara are proud parents of two children, a daughter Allison, 20 and a son Scott, 14. Kenny is a nurturing
and supportive father to Allison and Scott. Allison is a junior at Wake Forest University and Scott will be attending East Surry High School as a freshman.
Kenny joined SouthData in 2004 as the Finance Director and was named Chief Financial Officer three years ago. Prior to his career at SouthData, Kenny gained 25 years experience in the management
of accounting within several local manufacturing firms such as Flowers Baking Company, Sara Lee, Hamilton Beach Proctor-Silex and Cross Creek Apparel.
SouthData is a national, full-service document management provider specializing in electronic and paper based billing; high quality variable printing; distribution and mail services; electronic and film
based storage; and medical release of information. SouthData uses technology and talent to manufacture billing and imaging products for clients throughout the United States in a wide range of markets.
SouthData has been recognized for the past 5 years as one of the 50 fastest growing companies in the Piedmont Triad. For the last 3 years they have been named in the 5000 fastest-growing private
companies in the United States. SouthData was honored by the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce with the Small Business Award in 2009.
How can you benefit from
being a Chamber Member?
TESTIMONIAL…
As I flipped through the Chamber Connections from the paper this
morning, I thought to myself “Man, how impressed would somebody
4 Credibility.
from outside Surry County be to see this publication?”. The information
4 Networking.
in that publication is outstanding in quality, variety, pertinence and pres4 Referrals.
entation. If I did not already own a business, it would make me want to
4 Face to Face Crucial Advertising.
start one or at the very least find out “what all the fuss is about”.
4 Visibility on the internet through the Chamber
It started me thinking just how far our Chamber has come in the last 4
website and Facebook
years or so and it is due to the efforts of all of
4 Free job postings.
Visit
us
on
you. In the most difficult economic period of our
4 Free event posting.
generation, the Chamber is hitting an all time
www.facebook.com
4 Hot Deals.
high
in activity and enthusiasm. I am always
4 Spotlights.
under Mount Airy Chamber.
proud to be a member, today I am beaming.
4 Email Blasts.
Add
us
as
a
friend
or
sign
up
Congratulations to you all! (Insert standing
4 A platform for your voice.
as a fan to receive updates! ovation here)
4 Business Academy.
We
have over 300 hits to our
Greg Perkins CLU, ChFC, CFP
4 Supporting business growth in
page a week.
PO Box 883
your community.
Visit
us
today
and
help
us
110
S. Main Street
4 Helping to promote keeping
spread the word about our
dollars in the Greater Mount Airy.
336-783-0177
4 Getting involved and impacting your
Greater
Mount
Airy
Toll Free: 866-646-7932
community.
Chamber
of
Commerce
Businesses!
greg@perkinsfinancial.org
Call us today to find out more! 336-786-6116.
Page 7
“FLOCKING VICTIM OF THE WEEK”
Flocking Victim of the Week...
You may have been out and about and thought what are all these black
and gold flamingos? The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce imThe Mount Airy News
plemented their first “Flocking Fun-Raiser”. The Greater Mount Airy
Chamber of Commerce Staff and Chamber Ambassadors otherwise
known as the “Flocking Squad” decorated the front lawns of local businesses. For a small fee, the victim of the week was able to chose the next
victim! The flocking quickly became a fun game between Chamber Members. Members couldn’t wait to see who got flocked next. In return for
the small fee the victim was labeled as “The Flocking Victim of the Week”
and was giving some extra advertising in several publications.
Each week a large flock of black flamingos, all sporting gold and black
bows and representing the Chamber’s logo colors, showed up on a new
business property. The sign posted with
the flamingos said, You’ve Been
Flocked!!! The Greater Mount Airy
Thank you to
Chamber of Commerce. The “Flock” of
Interstate Sign
black flamingos stayed put for about a
Company for the
week at each business to bring notice to
donation of
that business. We thank each Chamber
the signs.
Member chosen as a victim for their sense
of humor and support of The Greater
Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce.
Flocked by Fastlink Communications
Flocking Victim of the Week
Congratulations, WorkForce Carolina!
Flocked by The Mount Airy News
Page 8
Congratulations, SouthData, Inc.!
Flocked by Teresa Lewis and your
friends at WorkForce Carolina, Inc.
Congratulations, Cooke Rentals!
Flocked by your friends at
SouthData, Inc.
Congratulations, M&M Granite, Inc.!
The Dairy Center
Congratulations, Dairy Center!
Cooke Rentals
Congratulations, David Hill Builders, Inc.!
M&M Granite
Page 9
Congratulations, Pine State Marketing!
David Hill Builders, Inc.
Congratulations, The North Carolina Granite Corp.!
Advanced Electric Services, Inc.
Page 10
Congratulations, Advanced Electronic Services, Inc.!
Pine State Marketing, Inc.
Congratulations, Easter Transportation, Inc.!
North Carolina Granite Corporation
Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies
Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting held at Mount Airy Blue Ridge Medical Group Office
Mount Airy Blue Ridge Medical Group welcomed Chamber members, patients, medical partners, service providers and the community to the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting
at the enlarged and redecorated office located at 905 Rockford Street Mount Airy, NC on April 22, 2010. The Doctors and the medical
staff spent the afternoon meeting and welcoming guests from the community to the newly renovated office. Refreshments awaited
guests in the lobby and the staff gave guided tours to the main and lower level of the Mount Airy Blue Ridge Medical Group Office.
Guests were able to meet Dr. Catalin Burciu, MD, Dr. Tamas Balogh, MD, Dr.Jan Kriska, MD, Dr. Jennifer Chapman, MD, Dr. Yasir
Cheema, MD and Dr. Lucian Vlad, MD and learn about the new services family-medicine and pediatrics now being offered in addition to the services already available. It was a big celebration and we all enjoyed meeting the Doctors and the staff! Thank you Blue
Ridge Medical Group for inviting us to join you for this wonderful event!
Mount Airy Blue Ridge Medical Group – Located at 905 Rockford Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Phone 336.719.2440 or visit
www.blueridgemd.com. Mount Airy Blue Ridge Medical Group includes Blue Ridge Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Blue Ridge
Sleep, Pulmonology Medicine, Family Medicine and Pediatrics. Board Certified Cardiology and Internal Medicine, CEO - Dr. Thomas Vybiral, M.D., Board Certified Cardiologist
and Assistant Managing Partner – Dr. Tamas Balogh, M.D., Board Certified Family Medicine, Partner – Dr. Jennifer Chapman, M.D., Board Certified Internal Medicine, Sleep Medicine and Lipidology, Partner - Dr. Jan Kriska, M.D., and Marketing & Recruiting - Pam Vybiral. Mount Airy Blue Ridge Medical Group is a physician practice offering cardiology,
internal medicine, family medicine, pediatrics, sleep medicine, pulmonology, and geriatrics. Blue Ridge Medicine has been serving patients in the Piedmont since 1993 with offices
in Elkin, Wilkesboro, Yadkinville, Dobson, Sparta and Mount Airy. Taking care of their patients needs is the most important part of what Blue Ridge Medical Group mission; available to their patients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Mount Airy Blue Ridge Medical Group is accepting new patients, same day appointments, in-office testing and accepts most insurances. Call today for a routine office visit or a more specific service…Walk-ins welcome.
Quality “Family Doctor” Care close to home!
905 Rockford Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336 – 719 - 2440 • www.blueridgemd.com
Ribbon Cutting held at New Image Weight Loss & Wellness
The Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held at New Image Weight Loss & Wellness Center located at 1008 Old Rockford Street
(lower level of Dr. Dean Simmons Office Building) Mount Airy, NC on Thursday April 29, 2010. The ceremony was officiated by Mayor
Pro-Tem Mount Airy City Commissioner Todd Harris and New Image Weight Loss & Wellness CEO, Dr. Darryl B. Rhyne along with the
staff; Evelyn Brickell, Jeanie Rhyne and Kim Parrett. Chamber Members and guests were given a tour and an overview of the services offered at New Image Weight Loss & Wellness. With an existing location in Elkin, NC, New Image Weight Loss & Wellness expanded in
January 2010 and opened the Mount Airy office. The new office is inviting and very spacious with a friendly and knowledgeable staff
ready to help you with a healthy lifestyle. The most fascinating and innovative feature too many of us was the “SlimLine POD”. The
SlimLine POD Capsule System is the newest and most technically advanced capsule from the world’s leader of the spa and medical capsule industry. The “Pod” is the perfect compliment to diet, exercise, fitness, spa and beauty services. Offering a personal sanctuary during
each session the “POD” features include; dry body heat, LED Chamber system, vibratory massage bed, cool facial air and oxy oasis for
pure oxygen. Benefits include; Detox, Weight Loss, Skin Tightening and Whitening. The New Image Weight Loss & Wellness office in Mount Airy is the only location in the state
to have a “POD”.
New Image Weight Loss & Wellness provides a sensible method of losing weight in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Their menu of services includes; Medical Weight Loss
Therapy, SlimLine Pod, Therapeutic Treatments, Facial Therapy. Following a good, well balanced diet coupled with regular exercise is essential to success with any weight loss program. Call today and make an appointment!
1008 Old Rockford Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336) 719-0400
Buy Local and Support
Chamber Members FIRST
Make your dollars count
L
CALLY!
Making a difference... one local business at a time!
Page 11
Ribbon Cutting and Grand Re-Opening Ceremony at Golden Living Center - Surry County
The Golden Living Center Surry located at 542 Allred Mill Road Mount Airy, NC welcomed Chamber Members, elected officials, dignitaries, and
guests to the Official Ribbon Cutting and Grand Re-Opening Ceremony on Friday April 29, 2010. Hundreds turned out to celebrate the facilities grand reopening after a water leak causing extensive damage forced the facility to close. Those in attendance gathered on the lawn for the Official Ribbon Cutting
where Mayor Pro-Tem Mount Airy City Commissioner Todd Harris, Chairman of the Board, Surry County Commissioner Paul Johnson, Golden Living
Center-Surry Director, Robin Leake, a very special guest and former patient along with Golden Living Center Officials cut the ribbon. In attendance for
the ceremony was North Carolina House of Representatives 90th District Sarah Stevens, and Kathy Manship, Field Representative for United States Senator Richard Burr. Following the Ribbon Cutting guests were treated to wonderful appetizers and refreshments and invited to tour the newly renovated center which is more beautiful and features more modern amenities than before!
Golden Living Center Surry is a skilled nursing facility located less than four miles from Northern Hospital of Surry County. Golden Living Centers
and Communities understand how important it is to return home as quickly as possible after an illness or surgery, and offering short-term care helps to
make this possible. Other services include long-term care, IV therapy, and physical, speech and occupational therapy. Residents are welcome to enjoy the
beautiful outdoors on one of the benches or in the backyard Gazebo. Maintaining hobbies, a variety of social and recreational activities, including spiritual services, bingo and local outings are
offered to enrich the lives of the patients and residents.
HEALTHCARE SERVICES OFFERED
Rehabilitation - The goal at Golden Living is to help patients enjoy their best level of physical health possible, and when possible, help them return home to the daily activities they enjoy.
Nursing Care - The level of skilled nursing care provided at Golden Living Centers strive to help residents regain their vitality so that they can continue to enjoy their family, friends and
favorite activities for many years to come. Whether residents need short-term therapy after surgery, complex medical care or Alzheimer's care, Golden Living Centers provide comprehensive,
customized plans that enhance and promote well-being.
Home Health - When ready to return home, some ongoing care may still be needed that family members and friends cannot easily provide. In these cases, home health is an ideal solution.
Depending on the care needed, treatment may be done at home by registered nurses, nursing assistants, therapists or social workers. In addition to medical care, Golden Living Centers home
health services also include physical, occupational and speech therapy. The ultimate goal of home health is to provide the additional recovery assistance needed to resume normal activities.
Assisted Living- Assisted Living Centers, or Golden Living Communities, are ideal residences for individuals who are able to live independently but may need help with certain activities.
Hospice - It's important to remember that hospice is not a place; it's a medical and philosophical approach to care. Golden Living collaborates with local, licensed hospice agencies to provide medical, emotional, practical and spiritual support to residents with terminal illnesses and their families.
The name Golden Living was chosen to reflect the company’s vision: to become a long-term care organization that is all about living - an organization focused on enriching the lives of
residents and patients, and providing them with dignity and purpose. Golden Living believes in helping residents live their lives to the fullest.
Golden Living Center Surry
542 Allred Mill Road • Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336) 789-5076 • www.goldenlivingcenters.com
The Uptown Gallery holds Official Ribbon Cutting and Opening Gala
The Official Ribbon Cutting was held on Friday May 7, 2010 for The Uptown Gallery located at 615 North Main Street, in the Dr.
Robert Smith House. An opening gala followed the ceremony and guests were invited to tour the inside of the historic home that had been
transformed into a wonderful art gallery! Mayor Deborah Cochran, The Gallery Group & Art Studio Director, Donna Jackson, Will Jackson, Mount Airy City Commissioners Teresa Lewis, Steve Yokeley and Dean Brown, Gilmer - Smith Foundation Director, Ann Vaughn,
Gilmer - Smith Board Member David Beal and many others helped to cut the ribbon. Well wishers lined the sidewalk and filled the front
lawn as the guest speakers told the journey that had brought them to this point. Director, Donna Jackson spoke of the dream to provide a
place where a person with special needs could be creative with mind and spirit, where they could feel whole and complete. The Gallery
Group & Art Studio located at 162 A West Pine Street has provided that venue for so many special needs students, currently 90 students
are enrolled and today the dream gets bigger…a new location that will act as The Uptown Gallery where the amazing talents of these students and the beautiful original art forms created can be properly displayed, viewed by thousands and purchased as keepsakes to always remember that if you are willing to look inside….there
is beauty within all of us. The Studio on West Pine Street will remain a working studio for the students and visiting artists with more room to create! The Dr. Robert Smith House is the perfect
home for this truly unique and inspirational gallery!
The mission of The Gallery Group & Art Studio, Inc. is to foster a compassionate and sharing atmosphere where local artists and the handicapped community can join together in creating
art. This will not only enrich the greater Mount Airy area through the arts, but will provide the handicapped with a place to socialize, be inspired and to have the benefit of this beautiful environment.
The Gallery Group & Art Studio Inc
162 A West Pine Street
(336) 786-0057
Hours: Tuesday 2:00pm – 5:00pm, Wednesday 1:00pm – 5:00pm (closed 3:00-5:00pm) and Thursday 12noon – 5:00pm (closed 2:00-3:00pm)
The Uptown Gallery
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 11:00am – 5:00pm and Sunday 1:00pm – 4:00pm
http://www.gallerygroup.biz
Page 12
Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Ceremony held at Mayberry Cheese & Cider Country Store
The Official Ribbon Cutting ceremony of Mayberry Cheese & Cider Country Store located at 225 North Main Street Mount Airy
was held at on Friday July 23, 2010 with Mount Airy Mayor Deborah Cochran cutting the ribbon with owners, Ron and Yvonne Marion. Following the ribbon cutting Chamber Members, guests, family and friends were invited inside Mayberry Cheese & Cider for a
wonderful open house celebration. Guests sampled several of the ciders that are carried along with various cheeses and mouthwatering
dips. Some enjoyed resting in the big rockers and paying checkers.
Mayberry Cheese & Cider Country Store carries a full line of Ashe County cheese, everything from cheddar and hoop cheese to a
variety of flavored cheese & curds and the famous creamy Ashe County real butter. To go along with the cheese you must try one of
the nine delicious flavors of Mayberry “sippin ciders”. Mayberry Cheese & Cider Country Store also carries; Krista Kay Gourmet
Dips, Baker’s Peanuts, Amish Bread & Products, Lisa’s Kitchen Helpers, Pelican Bay Mixes, Cheese Cutting Boards and many more
gift sections. Ask for a sample and you will see why Mayberry Cheese & Cider has earned the slogan;"Oh Yeah, It's Really That Good!"
Mayberry Cheese & Cider Country Store
225 North Main Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-786-9000 • www.mayberrybeverage.com
Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Ceremony held at Sunset Slush of the Foothills
The Official Ribbon Cutting ceremony of Sunset Slush of the Foothills located at 153 North Main Street Mount Airy was held at on Friday August 13, 2010 with over 70 Chamber members, guests and local dignitaries present. The store was packed with guests sampling the
many flavors of the delicious Italian Ice. Mount Airy Mayor Deborah Cochran cut the ribbon with owners Todd and Melissa Tharpe, family
and friends.
Sunset Slush of the Foothills opened the end of July and has busy since then! Sunset Slush of the Foothills offers Classic Italian ices
with over 40 delicious flavors and combinations. Todd and Melissa gave samples to all the guests and some of us had never tried Italian Ice
before and once we sampled it, we were SOLD…it is delicious, refreshing and enjoyed by all ages!
Sunset Slush of the Foothills specializes in weddings, parties, sport events, grand openings, birthday parties and just about any get together that you may be planning! Call Sunset Slush of the Foothills and see what kind of ideas they have to make your special event even better! Sunset Slush of the Foothills is a perfect addition to downtown Mount Airy!
“If it isn’t scooped, it ain’t real.”
336-719-0340
Back Home Country Store holds Ribbon Cutting
An official ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Friday October 1, 2010 at Back Home Country Store Antiques & More located at 835 West
Pine Street Mount Airy, NC. Mount Airy Mayor Deborah Cochran along with Owner, Thomas Ramey and family cut the ribbon to the Back Home
Country Store.
A visit to Back Home Country Store will bring back memories of yesterday as you step back in time looking at the wonderful collection of antiques that many of us remember our parents or grandparents using. Beginning with farm equipment that was used to plow the fields, cut the brush
or saw the wood; Thomas Ramey has gathered an assortment of collectibles, field tools and even has a room full of smaller antique tools! Wander
through the room of kitchen utensils, dishes, pans, oil lamps and other everyday pieces used by most families’ years ago. You can almost smell
country cooking on a wood stove.
Furniture, accessories, lamps, mirrors, jewelry, collectibles, toys, glassware and a large variety of new wood crafts, small furniture, jewelry,
cloth bags and much more.
Back Home Country Store Antiques & More….it is an experience that will bring back memories of a different time and place …a time when
families had to work together with little comforts but they had a lot of love and respect for each other.
Back Home Country Store is open Monday – Saturday – 1:00am – 6:00pm and 2:00pm – 6:00pm on Sunday. Dealer space is available for quality merchandise. Stop by and say hello to
Thomas Ramey and his sons!
Back Home Country Store Antiques & More
West Pine Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-719-0418
Page 13
New Industry
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Grand Opening Event held at Holiday Inn Express & Suites
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
Pilot Mountain Pride hosts Grand Opening Event
The Pilot Mountain Pride Grand Opening on Thursday May 20, 2010 was incredible! Pilot Mountain Mayor, Earl Sheppard welcomed over 325 Chamber
Members, Pilot Mountain Pride Partners, Friends and Supporters who were in attendance for the event held at the new center located at 612 East Main Street
Pilot Mountain, NC. Guests dined on a meal that came entirely from Surry County including pork barbecue, bread from Harvest Time Bread Company, fresh
salad greens, sweet potatoes and dessert made with locally grown strawberries and decorated with the Pilot Mountain Pride logo and the center piece was an
arrangement made entirely of vegetables symbolizing the importance of locally grown produce. Numerous presentations and recognitions were made during
the evening as guests celebrated in the grand opening festivities.
Pilot Mountain Pride is a local food movement unlike any other in or around this area. Pilot Mountain Pride has the potential to make a big impact on our
local economy by setting us apart from other communities and regions that may have a farmer’s market concept or a homegrown produce/vegetable crop
concept. Pilot Mountain Pride is a tested comprehensive plan that has the making to become a model for other communities and can be duplicated in other
areas. This program will set new standards and guidelines for future local food movements.
This center will allow local farmers to sell their produce on a larger scale. The center will buy the produce and sell it at a slightly higher price, only making enough to cover the cost of operating the center.
The produce will be sold to places such as schools, restaurants, hospitals, and stores in Surry County and the Winston-Salem area. Pilot Mountain Pride will create new markets for the GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) Certified local farmers in and around Surry County.
The idea of an agricultural center was discussed years ago and thanks to the determination of Bryan Cave, Cooperative Extension Director and Chris Knopf, Assistant County Manager for Economic Development and Tourism and the support of county officials the movement was able to get started. Bryan Cave introduced to the guests the Manager/Director for Pilot Mountain Pride, Charles Boles and the
Facility Director, Bill Imus; both with agricultural backgrounds.
Thanks to funding made available from the Golden Leaf Foundation, North Carolina Tobacco Trust Fund Commission, Surry County Farm Bureau and numerous in kind donations…..Pilot Mountain Pride
officially opened! In addition to the $75,000 from the N.C. Tobacco Trust Fund, Pilot Mountain Pride has received $315,000 in grants, $100,000 of in-kind contributions and $70,000 from Surry County.
The organization is expected to earn $250,000 - $500,000 the first year and close to $1 million within three years — 80 percent of which goes back to farmers.
The sponsors of the Grand Opening event included the following: Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce, Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce, NC Cooperative Extension-Surry Center, L&H
Farms, Southern States Cooperative-Mount Airy, Surry County EDP, Harvest Time Bread Company, Chelli and Associates, Pine State Marketing and West Depot Creative.
As of this week, a limited amount of PMP produce was available at Lowes Foods stores in Winston-Salem (Robinhood Road), Mount Airy, and King. At the Winston-Salem store the produce was available
at noon with much of it being sold by late afternoon; a great start for this program. Next week PMP produce will available on a wider scale at many of the stores in the greater Winston-Salem area. On June
11, 2010 Dick McKellogg, VP at Lowes Foods, visited the farms of a number of farmers participating with PMP. Mr. McKellogg discussed the expectations that his company has in regards to quality while
farmers showed off their produce crops Be sure to look for Pilot Mountain Pride produce at Lowes Foods! Pilot Mountain Pride ... a local food movement
612 East Main Street • Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
(336) 401-1876 • www.pilotmountainpride.com
Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Ceremony held at Central States Manufacturing, Inc.
The Official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was held at Central States Manufacturing, Inc. located at Piedmont Triad West Industrial Park 751 Mountain
View Road Mount Airy on Tuesday August 10, 2010. Less than one year ago, September 22, 2009 Governor Beverly Perdue made the announcement
of Central States Manufacturing, Inc. building a new plant in Mount Airy followed with the Ground Breaking Ceremony on September 25,2009.
State, County, and City dignitaries, elected officials, Chamber members and special guests were in attendance for this wonderful celebration.
Mount Airy Mayor Deborah Cochran, City Commissioners Teresa Lewis, Steve Yokeley and Dean Brown, Surry County Commissioner Jim Harrell, Jr., North Carolina Department of Commerce Melissa Smith and Jan Critz, Chamber Chair Britta Needham, Plant Manager Charlie Cox and CSM
Corporate Human Resource Department LeDenna Lambert and Kasey Bare participated in the ribbon cutting.
Numerous dignitaries and elected officials spoke during the ceremony thanking Central States Manufacturing,Inc. a metal building components
manufacturer for selecting Mount Airy NC as home for this new plant. A lunch followed with a short informational video and interaction with current employee owners. The program titled “Interview
Us” was awesome; giving our community leaders a real insight into Central States; the company values, their search for exceptional talent and their vision for the future. The interaction with the employee owners was so intimate, hearing from them what this company has meant to them and to their families. Everyone in attendance was so impressed with Central States Manufacturing and grateful
that Mount Airy NC was chosen as the location of this new plant; a 4.5 million dollar investment in our community, and for hiring our local citizens.
Piedmont Triad West Industrial Park • 751 Mountain View Road • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-719-7818 • www.centralstatesmanufacturing.com
Page 14
Business After Hours
Open House at Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropractic
Physical Therapist, Casey Vedder and Leslie Stoklosa, DC MS hosted an Open House at their new office, Choice Physical Therapy & Chiropractic located at 639 Independence Boulevard 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
The Right Choice for the Care You Deserve
639 Independence Blvd. • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-783-9400
PC NEEDS hosts Chamber Business After Hours Event
PC NEEDS, Inc. hosted a Business After Hours Event at The Gallery Group & Art Studio located at 162 West Pine Street Mount Airy,
NC on Thursday April 8, 2010. The crowd of over thirty braved the tremendous rains and winds seeking shelter inside where the intimate
atmosphere was warm and friendly.
The staff of PC NEEDS greeted guests as they entered and directed them to the back of the studio where they had staged tables of various hor’ d oerves, heavy appetizers and mouth-watering desserts. Guests toured the art gallery looking at the various works of art on display that were for sale. Everyone’s attention was directed to a computer setup where we were able to view the Gallery Group’s website
that PC Needs, Inc. had designed. The website was colorful, informative and guests could purchase art work directly from the site. Jason
and Amy Keck, owners of PC NEEDS, Inc. told the history of the company and what had brought both of them back to Mount Airy.
Guests enjoyed the evening and learned so much about PC NEEDS, Inc. and the services they offer. Thank you Jason and Amy!
PC NEEDS, Inc. started out as a small computer repair shop. In 2008 Jason Keck bought the business from his dad. With the new ownership came a new approach to existing practices, as
well as an expansion of services. Processes and procedures have changed; partnerships have been forged that have expanded capabilities and increased the customer base.
PC NEEDS, Inc. strives to provide the best service to their customers, focusing on security, stability, and accuracy in all solutions. Price is a factor, but PC NEEDS, Inc. refuses to sacrifice
quality for cost - so while they may not be the cheapest solution, they are guaranteed to be the best.
PC NEEDS, Inc.
803 West Pine Street, Suite 200 • Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336) 786-1905 • www.pcneedsonline.com
Patterson Toyota/Scion hosts Chamber Business After Hours Event
Patterson Toyota/Scion hosted a Chamber Business After Hours Event extravaganza themed around "Getting Ready for Summer" on Thursday April 22, 2010. Patterson's new vehicles were packed and ready to go on an exciting summer adventure. Over seventy five Chamber members, friends and customers attended the event and enjoyed a wonderful summer buffet catered by Little Richards BBQ. Owner, Mr... Dick
Patterson, Gene Garland and General Manager, Nicky York spoke to the guests and thanked them for doing business through the years with the
Patterson Automotive Group and for attending the Business After Hours event. Drawing for excellent door prizes followed and then the guests
were challenged by Tammy Springthorpe to find a hidden clue that had been placed in one of the new vehicles that would entitle the guest to
win a piece of luggage from JC Penney! The game was on... many of the guests love a challenge and raced to begin searching in the vehicles
around the showroom for the hidden clue. After 30 minutes or so Tonda Phillips Hall arrived back at the showroom with the clue and was
awarded the luggage! Patterson Toyota/Scion hosted a fabulous event and it was the first one they had ever done! Mr.Patterson and Nicky
Thank You so much for inviting us to your beautiful dealership and showroom! We had a fabulous time and your event was exceptional!
Patterson Toyota/Scion is located at 508 North Andy Griffith Parkway / Hwy. 52 N. in Mount Airy, NC. The Patterson Automotive Group
has been serving Mount Airy and the surrounding area for over 40 years! Patterson Toyota/Scion offers a wide range of services that make them your one stop for all your automotive needs.
Patterson Toyota/Scion offers a large selection of new and used vehicles, genuine Toyota parts and accessories and services all Toyota vehicles. Patterson Toyota/Scion stocks genuine Toyota
parts, accessories and services all Toyota vehicles.
If you are looking for a stress free buying experience, go by and see one of the Toyota Pros or Toyota Certified sales staff and see why customers "LIKE OUR PEOPLE AND LOVE OUR
PRICES".
Patterson Toyota/Scion
508 North Andy Griffith Parkway • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-786-2118 • www.pattersontoy.com
Page 15
SouthData hosts Chamber Business After Hours Event
SouthData, Inc. located at 201 Technology Lane Mount Airy, NC celebrated their 25th Anniversary with a Chamber Business After Hours
social on Thursday June 24, 2010. Over 150 Chamber members, business leaders, local dignitaries, friends and family attended the event.
SouthData employees invited guests to tour the beautiful facility that once was home to Cross Creek Apparel and now the corporate headquarters for SouthData Inc.
Founded in 1985, SouthData has continued to steadily grow even when times were not so good. For two years Inc. 5000 has named SouthData as one of the top 5,000 fastest growing private companies in the Unites States. Today SouthData offers billing, imaging, mailing and other
services….a more diversified product line that reaches 44 states and touches the lives of 10 million people. President John Springthorpe, 111
credits the success of SouthData to the unique combination of technology and talent. SouthData listens to the costumers needs, tailors a solution
and delivers in a cost effective manner. SouthData now operates a production facility in Tempe Arizona, and imaging production facility in Mobile Alabama and the corporate headquarters in
Mount Airy North Carolina.
SouthData is a national, full-service document management provider specializing in electronic and paper based billing; high quality variable printing; distribution and mail services; electronic and film based storage; and medical release of information. SouthData uses technology and talent to manufacture billing and imaging products for clients throughout the United States
in a wide range of markets. The Imaging Division of SouthData provides companies and organizations with Document Services for scanning, indexing, storing and retrieving important
records. SouthData serves the medical industry with Release of Information services and Recovery Audit Contractor requests.
SouthData is a company that continually looks past the horizon for new products and better ways to serve their customers. We coupled with the latest equipment innovative software systems and a highly skilled staff constantly improves the processes and products. SouthData pledges to do everything they can to earn and reward your trust in them. SouthData………Innovated
Billing & Communications.
SouthData
201 Technology Lane • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-719-5000 • 800-549-4722 • www.southdata.com
First Citizen Banks hosts Chamber Business After Hours Event
First Citizens Bank located 502 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 hosted a Business After Hours Event on Thursday July 15, 2010 to a
crowd of over 100 Chamber Members and guests.
The staff at First Citizens greeted guests at the door inviting them to the lobby where Sagebrush Steakhouse had staged tables of various hor’ d
oerves, heavy appetizers and mouth-watering desserts. The crowd enjoyed the festive atmosphere and the warm and friendly welcome from First
Citizens Bank!
Chamber Chairman of the Board – Britta Needham introduced Jerry Venable Senior Vice President Market Executive First Citizens Bank and
Jerry welcomed everyone to the “FIRST” Business After Hours event at First Citizens Bank! Jerry spoke about the history of First Citizens Bank
and how the first known bank opened in Smithfield NC in 1898. Today First Citizens continues to focus on individuals, and small to medium sized
businesses. Serving customers in more than 200 cities and towns, First Citizens still maintains their original set of core values with integrity being
the foundation of those values. First Citizens believes in community involvement and giving back and focuses on economic and community development, education, health and human services and arts and culture.
First Citizens Bank raised the bar for a first time Business After Hours Event! Everything was wonderful, and the staff had paid attention to every detail! Thank you Jerry Venable and the
First Citizens Bank staff for inviting us to your office and for your support of the Chamber and our community!
First Citizens Bank
(336)-789-9561 • www.firstcitizens.com
Rolling Hills Farms hosts Chamber Business After Hours Event
Rolling Hills Farms located at 252 Heart Lane Mount Airy, NC hosted a Chamber Business After Hours on Thursday July 29, 2010 with over sixty
Chamber members and guests in attendance. Guests were treated to Round Peak Vineyard wines, and a variety of appetizers, cheeses and delicious
recipes made with peaches grown on the farm. Hayrides around the farm and entertainment by local musicians made for a fun summer evening at
Rolling Hills Farms.
Rolling Hills Farms is owned and operated by Randy and Angela Shur and their children Brandon and Melanie. Originally from Long Island NY,
the Shurs moved to North Carolina in 2005 purchasing this 50 acre farm which had been a horse farm. As you drive into the farm, lush fruit trees
heavy with ripening fruit line both sides of the driveway. Passing the rental cabin on your left, the big barn and outbuildings on the right where the peacocks, goat and the big white dog live, a beautiful pink Victorian home stands at the end of the long driveway with the Blue Ridge Mountains off in the
distance. Today Rolling Hills Farms has 1,200 fruit trees with twelve varieties of peaches, six types of plums and ten varieties of apples which the
Shurs deliver to local businesses and sell at various local farmers markets along with fresh cut flowers. The Shurs amazing pink Victorian house is
beautifully landscaped with exotic trees and unique varieties of blooming flowers. Running and operating a farm takes a lot of work and commitment from everyone in the family and the
Shurs are to be congratulated on their amazing accomplishments at the farm!
Thank you Angela, Randy, Melanie and Brandon for inviting us Rolling Hills Farms. Each of you should feel very proud of this breathtaking place…. that you call home!
Rolling Hills Farms
252 Heart Lane • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-352-3009
Page 16
Blue Ridge CareNet Counseling Center hosts Chamber Business After Hours Event
Blue Ridge CareNet Counseling Center, “Faith Integrated Counseling” located at 131 West Lebanon Street Mount Airy, NC hosted a Chamber
Business After Hours on Thursday September 16, 2010 with over thirty five guests in attendance. Located in a warm and welcoming house centrally
located in the city, guests were given a tour of the office then invited to the wonderful wrap-around porch where we enjoyed refreshments and appetizers trays of cheese, fruit, vegetable and dessert trays provided by our local Food Lion. The event was intimate and casual as many of the Blue
Ridge CareNet Counseling Advisory Board Members got a chance to meet and talk to new and seasoned Chamber Members.
Regional Director, Dr.Laurel Link, LPC, LMFT was on hand to welcome everyone to the Mount Airy Office. She told us that Blue Ridge
CareNet Counseling Center is a non-profit, faith-integrated professional counseling center that provides services for individuals, families, and couples. Affiliated with Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center and accredited by the Samaritan Institute. Dr Link noted that in 2007-2008 CareNet provided 431 counseling sessions to local individuals, families and couples. The staff addressed issues such as anxiety and depression, substance abuse,
crises and trauma, sexual and physical abuse, grief and bereavement, marital issues, religious and spiritual issues and elder care issues. Due to the
generosity and diligent fundraising of the Advisory Board, Blue Ridge CareNet Counseling provided $18,573 in free or reduced fee care for those who were unable to afford theses services
because they were uninsured or underinsured. Services were also expanded to three days a week; open now on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Dr. Link introduced Staff Counselors; Rev.
Joseph B. Alexander, LMFT, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Amy Bigbee, PhD, MDiv, NCC, who is in the process of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor. Both
joined CareNet Counseling in 2009 and told the group about themselves and the rewards they find in helping people. President of the Advisory Board, Becky Keesler spoke to the group about
her personal fulfillment in being able to donate her time to the board and the mission of Blue Ridge CareNet Counseling Center.
It was a wonderful evening and we learned so much about the Blue Ridge CareNet Counseling Center and their dedicated Board Members who volunteer their time to the mission of offering help, hope, and healing to mankind. Thank you Dr. Laurel Link, Rev. Joseph Alexander, Amy Bigbee, Becky Keesler and Board Members for allowing us the opportunity to visit your office and to learn more about your mission!
“Faith Integrated Counseling”
131 West Lebanon Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-786-1922 • www.blueridgecarenetcounseling.org
Wyatt’s Trading Post hosts Chamber Business After Hours Event
Wyatt’s Trading Post located at 705 West Pine Street (Subway Plaza) Mount Airy, NC 27030 hosted a Business After Hours Event on Thursday October 14,
2010 to a crowd of over 50 Chamber Members and guests.
Owner, Melissa Wyatt and staff had decorated Wyatt’s Trading Post with wonderful gifts and home décor for the fall and for the upcoming holiday season…there was something beautiful everywhere you looked… from the floor to the ceilings! Guests were in awe as they made their way from the front of the
store to the back and front again trying not to miss a thing!
Melissa designed her Business After Hours event with a “Fall Carnival” theme that expanded outside of Wyatt’s Trading Post onto the sidewalks and into
the parking lot with the cooperation of neighboring businesses and property owner.The crisp fall evening was perfect for the delicious chili that was prepared
by fellow Chamber Member, Danny Speer with Titans of Taste. Chamber Member Angela Shur with Rolling Hills Farms had prepared mouth-watering individual fresh apple pies and husband Randy provided fresh apple cider all made from the orchard apples grown on their farm. The buffet was setup on the sidewalk and dining tables staged in the parking lot. An apple press demonstration and games were setup close by. The crowd enjoyed the festive fall atmosphere
and the wonderful food and hospitality provided by Melissa and Mark Wyatt and the staff at Wyatt’s Trading Post! Thank you so much for a really fun
evening…….we will be back to shop!
Wyatt’s Trading Post, Inc. has this areas most unique assortment of home décor including; Yankee Candles, Western, Lodge, Primitive, Antiques and Collectibles. Collectible lines include;
Willow Tree, Boyds Bears, Jim Shore, and Collegiate items such a throws and handbags. Many great gift items to select from such as lawn and home flags, jewelry and much, much more!!!
Wyatt’s Trading Post, Inc. is locally owned and operated and excels in customer service! Wyatt’s Trading Post, Inc. is open Monday – Friday 10:00am – 7:00pm, Saturday 10:00am – 5:00pm
and open Sundays during holidays and special events.
Wyatt’s Trading Post, Inc.
705 West Pine Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336 - 789 -7700 • www.wyattstradingpost.com
Support
Unlimited
Home
Selection
Owned
Proprietors
First Rate
Inventory
Reliable
Service
Think Local
Page 17
Chamber Surprise Patrol Visits JC Penny
The Greater Mount Airy Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit on Tuesday April 27, 2010 to JC Penney located at 480 Mayberry Mall Mount
Airy, NC. The Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived at 10:00am when the store opened and made their way to a customer service area to solicit help in luring Store
Manager John Tsaklis out onto the sales floor. With two big bunches of balloons, a big basket of candy and box of cookies The Chamber Surprise Patrol waited at
customer service while a Sales Associate paged him to assist a customer. John wasted no time in getting to the area…..He is all about providing good customer
service and was he SURPRISED to see The Chamber Surprise Patrol! Thanks to the Sales Associate, John was shocked and grateful for the recognition of his store
and staff. The Chamber Surprise Patrol just wanted to say Thank You to JC Penney for being a Chamber Member! John spent a few minutes with the group telling
us about the history of JC Penney and talking about his own career with the company. John was leaving the next day for Dallas to receive a most prestigious
award…. The JC Penney Chairman’s Award, which is the company’s highest award for performance excellence! John had also recently received the 2009 Manager
of the Year Award for JC Penney District 8220! WOW….Congratulations, John Tsaklis and the JC Penney Associates for a fabulous year!!! Mount Airy NC may
be a small JC Penney store but it excels in performance and excellence at all levels!! Thank you for a wonderful time and congratulations again!
JC Penney
480 Mayberry Mall • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-789-2181 • www.jcpenney.com
Chamber Surprise Patrol Visits Cross Creek Country Club
The Greater Mount Airy Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit on Tuesday May 4, 2010 to Cross Creek Country Club located at 1129 Greenhill
Road Mount Airy NC. The Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived at 9:00am with two big bunches of balloons, a big basket of candy and box of cookies with hopes of
catching the staff before they got busy. Ten members of the Chamber Surprise Patrol showed up at Magen Atkinson’s, the Administrative Assistants desk where we
were greeted with a warm and friendly welcome BUT Magen did not know why we were there. After explaining our purpose for the visit we ask her to call the
staff members to the lobby area. Faye Goard, Events Coordinator met us in the lobby and yes we did surprise her! Todd Hutcherson, Golf Professional was the
other staff member who was in and was ask to meet us at the pavilion…our favorite spot at Cross Creek Country Club. Magen, Faye and Todd were delighted that
Cross Creek Country Club was being celebrated by the Chamber Surprise Patrol. It was a beautiful morning and the view from the pavilion was exceptional! We
ask the staff tell us some of the history of the club and about themselves and their careers at Cross Creek. Faye had been with the club for at least 25 years, Todd
had been there just a few less and even Magen had surprisingly been there for a long time as well. That says a lot about a business….these employees must love
what they are doing!!!
The Chamber Surprise Patrol learned that the Beginning of Cross Creek was actually Greenhill Farm owned by H.O. Woltz, Sr. where corn, tobacco, beef cattle,
other livestock and at one time was a large commercial flower growing operation that supplied bulbs to may wholesalers on the east coast. Mr. Woltz believed that
a town without an eighteen hole golf course was incomplete. Mr. Woltz and a group of investors contracted with Joseph Lee a well known and respected architect
to begin the planning stage for development and with Martini and Associates a large land use consulting firm they developed the plans and renderings for Cross Creek Country Club and the surrounding developments. The Club has operated since 1973 and has undergone several renovations and improvements over the years. The Clubhouse was completely renovated in 2001 and boasts a well appointed interior with inviting food service areas and a Grand Ballroom that serves its members and the community as the center piece of the regional social scene. A three season Pavilion was added in 2007 and has
become a popular venue for dining, parties and musical entertainment. The golf course was renovated in 2005 by well known architect Kris Spence whose other recent projects included Myers Park CC in
Charlotte and Forsyth CC in Winston Salem. NC Business magazine recently named Cross Creek as one of the “Top 100” golf courses in the state of North Carolina. Current Board Members, Zack Blackmon Jr., Bucky Holcomb, Lindsay Holcomb, Smith Holcomb, Richard Vaughn, Rick Vaughn, Ed Woltz, Elliott Woltz, H.O. Woltz III, and H.O. Woltz Jr, continue to pursue Mr. H.O. Woltz Sr.’s dream of
operating a first class country club that enhances the community, supports economic growth, and brings enjoyment to the residents of Mount Airy, Surry County and surrounding areas.
Thank you Cross Creek Country Club for being a member of the Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce and for being so easy to work with on the numerous events that the Chamber hosts there
each year. Your staff is exceptional and the facility is awesome!
Cross Creek Country Club
1129 Greenhill Road • Mount Airy, NC 27030
(336)-789-5193 • www.crosscreekcc.com
Chamber Surprise Patrol Visits Bunn Engineering Company, P.C.
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Bunn Engineering Company, P.C. located at 152 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC on Tuesday
May 18, 2010. The Chamber Surprise Patrol entered the office lobby carrying balloons, a big basket of candy and a box of cookies where they were greeted
by Janice Bunn, Office Manager and wife of Eddie Bunn. Janice was very warm and friendly but surprised by the patrol and the attention! Janice was kind
enough to call owner, Eddie Bunn and Anthony Thomas to the main street lobby area to meet some guests who had dropped by to see him.
Eddie and Anthony both have upstairs offices where they have plenty of room to spread out drawings and oversized plans on large tables. After Eddie and
Anthony arrived, the Chamber Surprise Patrol explained the purpose of our visit and made proper introductions. We asked Eddie to tell us about his company,
what engineering entails and what projects they had worked on. Eddie noted that Bunn Engineering had worked with the contractors on the new Holiday Inn
Express & Suites here in Mount Airy. It was a fascinating visit and we all learned a lot about civil engineering and land surveying but more important we
learned about Eddie, how he originally worked for Duke Energy then decided to go back to school. During this time he met and married his wife, Janice. In
1983 Eddie decided to open his own engineering company in Mount Airy. Bunn Engineering now employs a total of nine full time people; unfortunately the
remainder of the staff was out of the office at job sites. We wish we could have met everyone but we are glad that we were able to meet Eddie, Janice and Anthony.
Bunn Engineering Company, P.C. has been a member of The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce since 1987 and we are proud to have been able to honor them with a Chamber Surprise Patrol visit!
For Engineering and Land Surveying…………we recommend you contact Bunn Engineering Company; credible, dependable and a local company!
Bunn Engineering Company, P.C.
(336) 789-6610
Page 18
Chamber Surprise Patrol visits Edward Jones
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Doug Drought and the Edward Jones Office located at 697 West Pine Street Mount Airy, NC on Tuesday
June 1st, 2010. The Chamber Surprise Patrol entered the office lobby carrying balloons, a big basket of candy and a box of cookies surprising Cindy Vernon and Amy
Harrison. Doug Draughn was in a meeting with a client but due to the roar of laughter out in the lobby, he and his client, Jeff, joined us for the celebration. Doug
Draughn, Financial Advisor – AAMS (Accredited Assets Management Specialist) has been with Edward Jones for twelve years and prior to his career as an financial
advisor he worked with Duke Power. Amy Harrison, Senior Branch Office Administrator has been with Edward Jones for ten years and Cindy Vernon, Branch Office
Administrator has been with Edward Jones for eight years. We had the most fun with Doug, Amy and Cindy. We all joked and laughed about our own individual investments and how we are all hopeful that things will improve or we will all have to work until we are 85 years old! For your financial advice or help with your financial
planning, call Doug Draughn with Edward Jones today at 336.789.1707!
Edward Jones………making sense of investing
If you think Edward Jones is like every other large investment firm, think again. Edward Jones is a leader in the financial-services industry, because they take a personal approach to business, an approach that starts with a face-to-face meeting between a financial advisor and client. Edward Jones believes that building long-term relationships with their nearly 7 million clients is key to serving their needs. Whether it’s in the United States or Canada, Edward Jones is located in the communities where their clients live and work because
that’s the best way for them to get to know their clients and to help them reach their clients financial goals. There are Edward Jones Offices located in Mount Airy, Pilot Mountain, Dobson and Elkin. Edward Jones…Making Sense of Investing!
Edward Jones
336-789-1707 • 877-789-1708 • www.edwardjones.com
Chamber Surprise Patrol visits Gwyn Properties
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Gwyn Properties located at 304 North Renfro Street, Suite 200 Mount Airy, NC on Tuesday July
13, 2010. The Chamber Surprise Patrol entered Gwyn Properties with balloons, a big basket of candy and a box of cookies for Lucy Ellen. Surprised that the
Chamber Surprise Patrol had come to see her, Lucy Ellen had seen a group in the parking lot with balloons and thought somebody must be having a party. Lucy
Ellen was right, the party was for her! The Chamber Surprise Patrol had showed up to thank her for being a Chamber member and for her years of support for
the Chamber!
Ms. Gwyn taught speech therapy for the Surry County School system, traveling to each school in the system, for 31 ½ years before retiring. She then went to
work in the real estate field working for other agencies until 1995 when she opened her own real estate office. Lucy Ellen told us that the very first check she
wrote after opening her own office was to The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce for membership. When asked to explain, Lucy Ellen said she knew
the Chamber was a group of professional business people and if she was going to be in business for herself, she wanted her business to be recognized as a credible professional business among the community and her peers.
Our visit to Gwyn Properties was so much fun! Lucy Ellen Gwyn is a very witty, frankly honest, strong business woman. She works hard to find her clients the right home for their needs. In the past fifteen years as a licensed real estate agent she has seen the market go through highs and lows and today sees an increased interest in rental property. Gwyn Properties has been able to weather the real estate
storm and to remain flexible continuing to meet the needs of her clients.
When looking for a real estate agent to help you find the perfect home, we suggest you call a PROFESSIONAL, Lucy Ellen Gwyn at Gwyn Properties 336-789-2154.
Gwyn Properties
304 North Renfro Street, Suite 200 • Mount Airy, NC
(336) 789-2154 • Fax: (336) 789-2555
Chamber Surprise Patrol visits Hanesbrands, Inc.
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Hanesbrands Inc. located at 645 West Pine Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 on Tuesday, July 27,
2010. Working with a Hanesbrands “insider” Amy Johnson the HR Manager, The Chamber Surprise Patrol was able to move past security officer, CK Worsham
and go directly to the main office where we met Receptionist, Sue Wall. Sue, a delightful lady aided and abetted The Chamber Surprise Patrol by hiding us in
the interview room until the managers had arrived for the Tuesday morning meeting. Once they were in the boardroom The Chamber Surprise Patrol entered the
meeting carrying balloons, a big box of cookies and a big basket of candy for Doug St. Louis and the management staff at Hanesbrands. Part of the managers
were out on vacation or at another location and we sure do hate we missed them but we did have a great time meeting with Doug St. Louis - Plant Manager,
Alton Gaither - Receiving Manager, Amy Johnson - HR Manager and Jeff Mays - Production Manager!
During our visit, Plant Manager – Doug St. Louis told The Chamber Surprise Patrol about the daily operations at the plant. Hanesbrands Inc. in Mount Airy
knits socks that are sold at Wal-Mart, Target, Kohl’s, Sear’s, to name a few of the retailers. Hanesbrands employs over 480 people, making them one of the larger employers in Surry County. The plant operates three shifts a day and has not closed at all this year….not for a holiday or for bad weather, due to production being up and people wanting to work! Hanesbrands Inc. produces 10,000,000 million socks
a week…..yes that is 10,000,000 MILLION socks a week and the knitting machines are changed out 600 times a week for the new styles.
Doug took us into the plant where we saw the knitting operation of the socks. Once the socks are knitted they go through a pipe into another area where they fall into a bin for that particular style then off
to the bleaching department. Because of the bleaching process Hanesbrands Inc. is the largest user of water in the City of Mount Airy. The Hanesbrands Inc. Plant in Mount Airy has gone through many
changes throughout the years; from receiving raw goods in one door and a packaged finished product leaving through another door; today some of those operation are done elsewhere leaving the knitting
and bleaching of the socks in Mount Airy. The Management Team’s ability to remain flexible and adapt to change with the need arises has resulted in our local plant remaining vital to the Hanesbrands operation. This year will be a BANNER year for our local plant and we could not be happier! When you and your family are shopping for socks please consider purchasing products made locally like the Hanse
and Champion brand socks! Thank you Doug, Amy, Jeff, Alton for a wonderful visit to Hanesbrands Inc.!
About Hanesbrands – Based in Winston-Salem, N.C., Hanesbrands Inc. (NYSSA:HBI) is a world-class consumer goods company with more than a century of history and a portfolio of leading apparel
essentials brands including Hanse, Champion, Playtime, Bali, LEDs, Just My Size, Barely There and Wonderer.
Hanesbrands sells high-volume apparel essentials such as T-shirts, bras, panties, men’s underwear, kids’ underwear, socks, hosiery, caudalward and activizes. Hanesbrands can be found in eight out of 10
American households and many across the globe buy year in and year out to bring them comfort and function. As an example of the scale of Hanesbrands interwar and outerwear operations, they manufactured and sold more than 400 million T-shirts and almost half a billion pairs of socks in fiscal 2005. Wherever and whenever consumers want to shop, Hanesbrands products are accessible through large,
high-volume retailers, including mass merchants and department stores, plus the Internet and catalogs. Hanesbrands, was spun off from Sara Lee Corporation in 2006, has approximately 50,000 employees.
35,500 of those are outside the United States.
Hanesbrands Inc.
336-789-6118 • www.hanesbrands.com
Page 19
Chamber Surprise Patrol visits High Cotton Interiors
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to High Cotton Interiors located at 218 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030 on Tuesday, August 10th,
2010. High Cotton Interiors opened over ten years ago and is a truly unique gift shop located in downtown Mount Airy. Owner Libby Lovill has an eye for the unusual and
unique; shopping the market for one-of-a-kind gifts, personal items and fabulous home décor is a passion that is reflected in the merchandise that you will find at High Cotton Interiors. Managed by Libby’s sister, Kathy Outlaw sees to the day to day operations and is assisted by sales associates Betsy Jackson and Mildred Miller.
The Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived at High Cotton Interiors shortly after the doors opened, carrying balloons, a big candy basket and a box of cookies just to say
“Thank You” for being a Chamber Member. Mildred Miller (County Commissioner Jimmy Miller’s wife) was working that morning along with the assistance of her young
granddaughter, Katie Miller. Both seemed pleasantly surprised by our visit and our timing could not have been better….it was Katie’s birthday…….just another reason to
celebrate at High Cotton Interiors!
Mildred was gracious enough to tell us more about High Cotton Interiors and the history of the shop while each of us took time to look at the wonderful and unique selections throughout the store.
We had such a great time meeting Katie and talking to Mildred. Thank You Libby, Kathy and staff for your continued support and for being a Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce Member! Make High Cotton Interiors your destination when shopping for that special gift!
High Cotton Interiors
336-786-7018
Chamber Surprise Patrol visits J&B Foods, Inc.
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to J&B Foods, Inc. located at 628 South Main Street Mount Airy on Tuesday August 24, 2010. The Chamber Surprise Patrol arrived with balloons, a basket of candy and a box of cookies for J&B Foods, Inc. to say “Thank You” for their membership and their continued support of The Greater Mount Airy Chamber. J&B Foods, Inc. has been a loyal Chamber Member since December 1998.
We did surprise Office Manager, Tracy Hicks. She was the only one in the office and honestly she did not know who we were. I think she hoped that we were the patrol who brings a big check….sorry…wrong Surprise Patrol! Tracy was delightful and a great sport; she has been with J&B Foods for five years and comes in early
while the office is quiet. President, Fred Jones, Vice President, Ted Beaver and General Manager, Keith Cummings have busy schedules and arrive later on in the morning. While visiting with Tracy, Janet Johnson Manager of CF Jones located at Mayberry Mall came by and celebrated with us! Janet has been with CF Jones for 28
years and it was great to see her.
Vice President Ted Beaver had arrived later and called to thank us for the visit and the “goodies” so we decided to stop back by and try to get a quick photo of all of
them.
J&B Foods, Inc. owns and operates the Aunt Bea’s Restaurant chain with locations in Mount Airy and Pilot Mountain, NC, and in Hillsville, Galax and Independence VA. The first Aunt Bea’s Restaurant opened in 1984 in Mount Airy and today the five restaurants employ over 130 people. Selected as the Small Business of the Year by The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce in 2000, over ten years later, J&B Foods continues to provide affordable and delicious menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Vice President Ted Beaver said, “Our Employees make it possible for us to continue to be successful. Their commitment to providing excellent customer service enables us to carry on.” General Manager
Keith Cummings who has been with the company for four years echoed the same sentiments.
While talking to Fred and Ted we learned that there is another division to this local company; J&B Buildings, LLC; a commercial property portfolio that is managed out of the same office. Both men stay
very busy with other interests; Fred owns and operates CF Jones located at Mayberry Mall and owns the trademark for the Pilot Mountain Coffee brand; Ted spends most of his free time attending ballgames
that one or the other of his two grandchildren are participating in or accompanying his wife Kathe, who is an accomplished entertainer and performs with the group Blend to her concerts. Thank you J&B
Foods, Inc. for taking time away from your busy schedules to spend with us!
J&B Food, Inc.
628 South Main Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-789-0388
Chamber Surprise Patrol visits Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs located at 182 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Arriving
shortly after the doors opened on Tuesday September 14th, carrying balloons, a big candy basket and a box of cookies for Owner, Julie Teague and her staff; the Chamber Surprise Patrol just wanted to say “Thank You” for being a Chamber Member.
Julie and Melody were busy on the sales floor merchandising the racks and restocking the Mayberry Junction collection. Both seemed excited to see this group coming
through the door carrying bunches of balloons and other goodies! After we explained why we were there and did the introductions we asked Julie to tell us about her
business. Julie told us that Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs started out in several smaller locations in the downtown area but continued to out grow each space.
She decided to purchase a store in the historic downtown area that was large enough for her business to grow and to have some storage space to. In addition to the successful consignment part of her business, in 1991 she purchased Mayberry Junction the licensed logo for Mayberry Memorabilia ……take a look at the water tower on
Haymore Street…that is Julie’s logo painted on the tower welcoming everyone to town.
With hundreds of items to select from, Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs offers one of the largest selections of Mayberry memorabilia, apparel and collectibles.
From Mayberry T-shirts to hats, Aunt Bee's cookbooks to Barney Fife posters, key chains to shot glasses to canvas totes. Julie is dedicated to operating a successful
business in her hometown. She constantly promotes Mount Airy and the downtown district. She is a team player and is always supportive of the efforts of doing business locally. We are PROUD to say Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs is a Chamber Member!
(336) 719-2363 • www.mayberryjunction.com
Page 20
Chamber Surprise Patrol Visits Mayberry Pharmacy
The Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs located at 182 North Main Street Mount Airy, NC 27030. Arriving shortly after the doors opened on Tuesday September 14th, carrying balloons, a big candy basket and a box of cookies for Owner, Julie Teague and her staff;
the Chamber Surprise Patrol just wanted to say “Thank You” for being a Chamber Member.
Julie and Melody were busy on the sales floor merchandising the racks and restocking the Mayberry Junction collection. Both seemed excited to see this group
coming through the door carrying bunches of balloons and other goodies! After we explained why we were there and did the introductions we asked Julie to tell us
about her business. Julie told us that Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs started out in several smaller locations in the downtown area but continued to out grow
each space. She decided to purchase a store in the historic downtown area that was large enough for her business to grow and to have some storage space to. In addition to the successful consignment part of her business, in 1991 she purchased Mayberry Junction the licensed logo for Mayberry Memorabilia ……take a look at
the water tower on Haymore Street…that is Julie’s logo painted on the tower welcoming everyone to town.
With hundreds of items to select from, Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs offers one of the largest selections of Mayberry memorabilia, apparel and collectibles. From Mayberry T-shirts to hats, Aunt Bee's cookbooks to Barney Fife posters, key chains to shot glasses to canvas totes. Julie is dedicated to operating a
successful business in her hometown. She constantly promotes Mount Airy and the downtown district. She is a team player and is always supportive of the efforts
of doing business locally. We are PROUD to say Mayberry Consignments & Souvenirs is a Chamber Member!
(336) 719-2363 • www.mayberryjunction.com
Chamber Surprise Patrol Visits Mount Airy Veterinary Hospital
On Thursday October 14, 2010 the Chamber Surprise Patrol paid an unannounced visit to the Mount Airy Veterinary Hospital located at 1106 South South
Street in Mount Airy. The parking lot was full and the Chamber Surprise Patrol entered the lobby cautiously with the balloons, cookies and candy basket, trying not to be too loud since we did not want to upset any of the patients that might be waiting in the lobby.
Once inside, we met “Peaches” and “Dixie” both awaiting their appointments. We were greeted at the front desk with a warm and friendly welcome where
we asked for Dr. D.H. Truban and Dr. Arlen Mills! After a few minutes Dr. Truban, Dr. Mills and the entire staff emerged from the back to meet us. They were
kind enough to take a few minutes away from their busy morning and let us take a couple of photos and what a fun group they were!
The Mount Airy Veterinary Hospital has been a Chamber Member since July 2002 and the Chamber Surprise Patrol wanted to say Thank YOU to a loyal
and dedicated Member! Thank you Dr. Truban, Dr. Mills and staff for taking time to visit with us!
Mount Airy Veterinary Hospital
1106 South South Street • Mount Airy, NC 27030
336-786-6179
WHY BUY LOCALLY OWNED?
There are many well-documented benefits to our communities and
to each of us to choosing local, independently owned businesses.
We realize it is not always possible to buy what you need locally and
so we merely ask you to Think Local FIRST!
Page 21
STATE OF SURRY
The Triad Business Journal hosted the State of Surry at Cross Creek Country Club on Friday October 29, 2010, a program focused on the economic
conditions in Surry County. Presenting Sponsors for this forum were CenturyLink and WorkForce Carolina; Co-Sponsors were Duke Energy, SouthData
and The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce.
Business Journals Executive Editor Justin Catanoso moderated the panel discussion of community leaders. The panelists were Todd Tucker, President, Surry County Economic Development Partnership, Inc., Dr. Deborah Friedman, President, Surry County Community College, Samuel L. Halsey,
NCDOT- Division 11 that includes Wilkes, Yadkin, Caldwell, Surry, Watauga, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery Counties and Burke Robertson, Burke Robertson
and Associates, Main Oak Emporium, Good Life Outfitters.
Over 140 Business Leaders and Representatives were in attendance for the 1 ½ hour forum that stimulated frank discussions about the opportunities
and challenges facing Surry County. Justin Catanoso asked Dr. Friedman to give him a demographic photo of Surry County. Dr. Friedman spoke about
the unemployed and the displaced worker and how 44% qualify for financial aide. Burke Robertson was asked about the assets of Surry County. Burke
said that today the quality of life is an asset and the future potential of this area is the best that it has been in 50 years. Todd Tucker said he had made a
conscious effort to move here and would not have if he had not believed in the potential of Surry County.
Justin Catanoso asked about the challenges in Surry County; Todd Tucker talked about retraining the workforce and how companies today are looking for a labor force that is flexible, engaged, and adaptable and how we need to realize that re-tooling our skills and continual education is life long if
one wants to stay employable in today’s workplace. Sam Halsey talked about well kept highways and roads in the county; the continuation of repaving
and repairing and building bridges; keeping the infrastructure in good condition.
Justin Catanoso led the panelists to discuss numerous topics. Additional topics that were discussed by the panelist and engaged some of those in audience were: educational changes, sustainability, niche manufacturing, travel and tourism, Mayberry, entrepreneurship, regional partnerships & efforts,
agriculture, retirees, healthcare, capital, critical skills & analytical thinking and leadership development. It was a great program and our community
leaders on the panel shared their unique perspectives and expertise with the audience about the State of Surry.
Doug Copeland, President & Publisher, The Business Journal was very pleased with program and the participation. Doug assured us that The Business Journal will be back to host additional forums in Surry County.
Economic Studies
Page 22
Economic studies are an important method of showing how
shopping with local, independent businesses is not just a nice
thing to do, but it is truly one of the best ways to strengthen
and sustainably grow our economy. These studies contain
the data that shows that through buying locally we can retain
more of the wealth of our community.
The Newest: Thinking Outside the Box: A Report on Independent Merchants and the Local Economy in New Orleans
released September 2009
http://www.staylocal.org/pdf/info/ThinkingOutsidetheBox_1.pdf
Recent Studies :
Economic studies on buy local
This chart from the Andersonville Study shows that when
you spend a $100 at a local business 58% more money on
average stays in your community compared to what would
have happened if you spent that hundred dollars at a national
chain store. To see this great report showing the economic
benefits of shopping with locally owned, independent businesses follow this link to the Andersonville Study:
www.andersonvillestudy.com/html/reports.html.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you mean “Buy Local”?
When we say “Buy Local” we’re referring to buying from any business that’s in the
Greater Mount Airy. Every community needs both big retailers and independent
retailers in order to thrive. If you absolutely have to shop at a big-box retailer, try
shopping at one of ours before making a trip outside the county, or shopping online.
What is the “Multiplier Effect”?
The more times a dollar circulates within our county, and the faster it circulates
without leaving, the more income, wealth, and jobs it creates. Where and how you
spend your money makes all the difference on how it is leveraged to help our economy.
Why should I Buy Local?
When you “Buy Local” your money stays in the local economy longer, increasing its
value through the Multiplier Effect. When money circulates throughout a community, it creates jobs, increases income, and creates wealth. A healthy community has
a strong local economy.
Does this mean I have to spend more money?
Not necessarily. Our primary focus is to make people aware of the impact their
spending habits have on the local economy. We are simply asking people to think
locally first. If every household were to shift 10% of their discretionary spending
to local businesses ( an average of $44.57 per month), the economic impact would
result in more than $10 million added to our economy.
What is classified as discretionary spending?
According to the Gallup Poll, discretionary spending falls into four categories:
1. Clothing
2. Groceries
3. Dining Out
4. Entertainment/Recreation
What if I can’t find what I want locally?
We don’t expect people to find everything they want or need locally. If something
you need is not available in the county, shop elsewhere to find it. Our primary goal
is to get people to think locally first, then buy local whenever you can.
The Chamber can help. Visit www.mtairyncchamber.org and click our business directory. You may find businesses by name, by category, and by alphabetical order.
How can I get involved?
Is your employer a Chamber Member? The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of
Commerce has over 450 businesses invested in the Chamber and their Community!
Being a Chamber Member means committing to keep dollars here. Buy Local!
Support Chamber Members First! These dedicated Chamber Members are investing in a healthy local economy. Business Networking opportunities are crucial to
providing new relationships and reconnecting old ones. The Chamber helps to promote your business and you as an individual leading to an increase in local business
to business sales. Working toward this quest as a community and as business leaders is essential for the vital growth and stability of our business community.
Top Ten reasons to Think Local - Buy Local - Be Local
1. Buy Local -- Support yourself: Several studies have shown that when you buy from an independent, locally owned business, rather than a nationally owned businesses, significantly more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers and farms -- continuing to strengthen the economic base of the community.(To see summaries of a variety of economic impact studies go to www.newrules.org/retail/bigboxstudies.pdf; these include case studies showing that locally-owned businesses
generate a premium in enhanced economic impact to the community and our tax base.)
2. Support community groups: Non-profit organizations receive an average 250% more support from smaller business owners than they do from large businesses.
3. Keep our community unique: Where we shop, where we eat and have fun -- all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the
distinctive character of this place. Our tourism businesses also benefit. "When people go on vacation they generally seek out destinations that offer them the sense of being someplace, not just anyplace." ~ Richard Moe, President, National Historic Preservation Trust.
4. Reduce environmental impact: Locally owned businesses can make more local purchases requiring less transportation and generally set up shop in town or city centers as
opposed to developing on the fringe. This generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution.
5. Create more good jobs: Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and in our community, provide the most jobs to residents.
6. Get better service: Local businesses often hire people with a better understanding of the products they are selling and take more time to get to know customers.
7. Invest in community: Local businesses are owned by people who live in this community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community's future.
8. Put your taxes to good use: Local businesses in town centers require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering the community.
9. Buy what you want, not what someone wants you to buy: A marketplace of tens of thousands of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over
the long-term. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices.
10. Encourage local prosperity: A growing body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to
invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character.
Page 23
Chamber Members Participate in Speed Networking Event
On May 13, 2010 thirty-four Chamber Business Members participated in a Speed Networking Event at the Mount Airy
Museum Annex. Bayada Nurses sponsored the event, Titans of Taste sponsored the barbeque buffet, Winding Creek
Designs sponsored the wine and Cooke Rental sponsored the setup for the event. The water sponsor was High Country
Springs.
The Businesses were separated into two groups of seventeen. Each group had the opportunity to speak one-on-one with
participating businesses. For four minutes businesses were able to discuss their company highlights while learning about
other businesses and services.
Participants got to master their "elevator" speech; a short, simple and memorable commercial about their business or
company since each encounter was timed. At the end of the rotation introductions were given followed by a Chamber
Mixer so everyone could meet all of the participants.
Businesses made contacts that they otherwise might not have had the opportunity to make. New business alliances,
leads and new customers have been reported since the event and cash registers are starting to ring!
Membership and Communication Director Tanya Taylor organized and facilitated the event and was assisted by Chamber
Ambassadors; Traci Hamilton- WorkForce Carolina, Tracy Webster- SouthData, Inc. and Kim Shelton - Haynes Strand &
Company.
10 Tips for Successful Business Networking
by Stephanie Speisman
Effective business networking is the linking together of individuals who, through trust
and relationship building, become walking, talking advertisements for one another.
1. Keep in mind that networking is about being genuine and authentic, building
trust and relationships, and seeing how you can help others.
2. Ask yourself what your goals are in participating in networking meetings so
that you will pick groups that will help you get what you are looking for. Some meetings
are based more on learning, making contacts, and/or volunteering rather than on strictly
making business connections.
3. Visit as many groups as possible that spark your interest. Notice the tone and attitude of the group. Do the people sound supportive of one another? Does the leadership
appear competent? Many groups will allow you to visit two times before joining.
4. Hold volunteer positions in organizations. This is a great way to stay visible and
give back to groups that have helped you.
5. Ask open-ended questions in networking conversations. This means questions
that ask who, what, where, when, and how as opposed to those that can be answered
with a simple yes or no. This form of questioning opens up the discussion and shows listeners that you are interested in them.
Page 24
6. Become known as a powerful resource for others. When you are known as a
strong resource, people remember to turn to you for suggestions, ideas, names of other
people, etc. This keeps you visible to them.
7. Have a clear understanding of what you do and why, for whom, and what
makes your doing it special or different from others doing the same thing. In order to
get referrals, you must first have a clear understanding of what you do that you can easily articulate to others.
8. Be able to articulate what you are looking for and how others may help you.
Too often people in conversations ask, "How may I help you?" and no immediate answer
comes to mind.
9. Follow through quickly and efficiently on referrals you are given. When people
give you referrals, your actions are a reflection on them. Respect and honor that and your
referrals will grow.
10. Call those you meet who may benefit from what you do and vice versa. Express
that you enjoyed meeting them, and ask if you could get together and share ideas.
Stephanie Speisman is a Success Coach who coaches groups and individuals in business
networking skills based on her booklet "99 Tips for Successful Business Networking
http://kona.kontera.com/javascript/lib/imgs/grey_loader.gif
Contact info: (301)469-8015, successcoach@erols.com, www.strategiesforchange.com
Tourism Report
The NC Dept of Commerce just released the 2009 Numbers.
Tourism Fast Facts-Current Mount Airy
The Occupancy Tax in Mount Airy was up in July 2010 30.03% from July 2009 and also up in August 2010 18.81% from August 2009 and currently
up in September 2010 35.35% from September 2009. Year to date the up 8.29% from 2009.
Tourism Fast Facts in Surry County
All Stats provided by the NC Dept of Commerce Website under Tourism Services
Tourism remains one of the leading industries in North Carolina and Surry County, according to the NC Department of Commerce preliminary
numbers the tourism industry of Surry County brought $86.79 million to Surry County in 2009.
In 2009 the travel and tourism industry directly employed more than 730 people in Surry County and it generated a payroll of $13.36 million. Surry
County also rose from ranking 39th to the 37th highest out of 100 Counties in Tourism Expenditures. More than 730 jobs in Surry County were
directly attributable to travel and tourism.
Travel in Surry County generated a $13.36 million payroll in 2009.
State and local tax revenues from travel to Surry County amounted to $7.03 million in 2009.
Tourism Fast Facts-North Carolina
• In 2009, approximately 35.9 million person-trips were taken in North Carolina. North Carolina ranked #6 in the US in terms of domestic visitation.
• Eighty percent of all domestic visitors came to North Carolina for pleasure purposes, while twelve percent of visitors came to conduct business
(includes meeting/convention). The remaining eight percent indicated personal business or “other” reason for visiting the coast. In terms of overnight
visitors to the state, eighty-three percent of domestic visitors came to North Carolina for pleasure purposes, while ten percent traveled for business
purposes.
-Tourism is one of North Carolina’s largest industries. In 2009, domestic travelers spent $15.6 billion across the state.*
-Domestic tourism expenditures directly supported 183,800 jobs for North Carolina residents.*
-The tourism industry contributed $3.91 billion to the state’s payroll in 2009.*
-Traveler spending generated over $2.5 billion in tax receipts: *
-$1.18 billion in federal taxes, and $1.35 billion in state and local taxes:* $841.3 million in state tax revenue & $509.9 million in local tax revenue*
-North Carolina ranks sixth in person-trip volume by state behind California, Florida, Texas, New York, and Pennsylvania
N.C. RANKS #3 FOR HOSPITALITY JOB GROWTH
Although much of North Carolina’s economy may be struggling, the state’s leisure and hospitality sector is on the rebound.
Figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show the Tar Heel State has added 26,600 jobs in that sector during the past five
years. The leisure and hospitality sector encompasses a broad range of industries, including restaurants, bars, hotels, motels,
theaters, museums and professional sports teams. Only New York and Texas have done better. Thirty-six states and the District
of Columbia have registered gains in such employment during the past five years, while 14 states have suffered declines. To find
out more, visit www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/stories/2010/10/11/daily12.html.
Mountains, Music, Mayberry and More...
Page 25
The 44th Annual
Autumn Leaves Festival
deemed another successful event
The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce has declared that the 44th Annual Autumn Leaves Festival held the second full weekend of October a
huge success! Congratulations and Thank You to Festival Director, Yvonne Nichols who worked diligently on this event for months! The weather was
beautiful with clear blue skies that prevailed the entire weekend. The crowds were enormous, the food concession booths reported great traffic and hungry festival goers, many arts and crafts vendors reported having the largest Friday and Saturday ever ….at any event, the Blue Grass and Old Time entertainment provided at the WPAQ Bandstand was exceptional, Title Sponsor of the Festival, Carolina Carports unveiling of their custom Chopper by
Paul Jr. Designs and the appearance of Paul Jr. and his team from American Chopper was an unbelievable attraction that drew thousands to the event,
the Autumn Leaves Cup Sponsor Northern Hospital of Surry County, the support from the City of Mount Airy, the Downtown Businesses, Pilot
Garbage Service and our numerous festival partners whose support made it all possible!
Festival Sponsors
Title Sponsor - Carolina Carports, Inc.
Cup Sponsor – Northern Hospital of Surry County
Festival Partners
City of Mount Airy; Mount Airy Police Dept., Mount Airy Fire Dept.,
Mount Airy City Public Works
Mount Airy Rescue Squad
Mt. Pilot Garbage Service
North Carolina Highway Patrol
Surry County Sheriff’s Dept.
Community Service Work Program
The Mount Airy News
Mount Airy Tourism Development Authority
Mount Airy Visitor Center
Food Lion Mount Airy locations
Lowe’s Foods
Neighbors Stores
Pepsi Bottling Ventures
Page 26
Sagebrush Steakhouse Restaurant
Riverside Building Supply
Granite Development
Carolina West Wireless
SouthData, Inc.
Surrey Bank & Trust
WorkForce Carolina
Mountain Valley Hospice & Palliative
Care
BB&T Blue Ridge Burke
Barney’s
Bluebird Diner
Burke Robertson & Associates
PART
Downtown Mount Airy Businesses
We hope we did not forget anyone, if we did it was an oversight……
Again many thanks to everyone who
helped to make the 44th Annual Autumn
Leaves Festival a success!
Making a
Diﬀerence...
one local
business
at a time!
Buy Local and
Support Chamber
Members
FIRST
Make your dollars count
LOCALLY!
Making a difference...
one local business at a time!
VISIT US ONLINE
WWW.MTAIRYNCCHAMBER.ORG AND
WWW.VISITMAYBERRY.COM
The Mission of the Greater
Mount Airy Chamber of
Commerce is to advance,
promote and encourage
successful business
growth for our members.
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
200 N Main St. Mount Airy, N.C. 27030
336-786-6116 Main
336-786-1488 Fax
Betty Ann Collins - President
Email: president1@mtairyncchamber.org
Main Line Extension 6
Yvonne Nichols - Executive Assistant and Autumn Leaves Festival Director
Email: admin@mtairyncchamber.org
Jessica Icenhour - Tourism Director
Email: tourism@visitmayberry.com
Tanya Taylor - Membership and Communication Director
Email: membership@mtairyncchamber.org
Fawn Shaw - Visitor Specialist
Email: reception@mtairyncchamber.org
Main Line

Fall Chamber Pages - Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce

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