Rocky Mount Business profile 2014 by Rocky Mount Telegram

The

FACES of

Twin County

BUSINESS

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WESTERN SIZZLIN ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Anne Cliett, Ron Wilder and Cindy Wilder of the Rocky Mount Western Sizzlin.

Experience the hospitality at Western Sizzlin 1041 Wesleyan Boulevard Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.446.3262 western-sizzlincom.myshopify.com

here’s nothing that beats the feeling of being home with your family at mealtime. You know what that’s like. You’re with people who are happy that you are there with them. They know what you like to eat and how to prepare it just the way you want it. That family feeling goes with you when you eat at Western Sizzlin Steak House in Rocky Mount, because you are treated like family. It’s been that way since the restaurant was opened here by Tommy Cliett in December, 1973. Cliett died recently, having directed the operations of Western Sizzlin Steak House restaurants in Rocky Mount and Fayetteville, NC for the past 40 years. Ron Wilder, Cliett’s son-in-law and Vice President of Operations for the franchises, joined Western Sizzlin Steak House in 1997. He said that the restaurants are honoring Cliett’s 40-year legacy by offering food specials all this year. “We are very family-oriented,” Wilder said. His wife, Cindy, is Executive Vice-President and her mother, Anne Cliett, is the franchise owner. “We are operated by family and we treat our customers like family,” Wilder pointed out. “They are served just the way we want to be served - with courtesy, appreciation and in a comfortable and clean atmosphere.” The specialty at Western Sizzlin restaurants is steak, all Angus beef, all cuts and all cooked just the way you order it. But other food selections are available from the menu, too. In addition, there is a buffet bar, plus a salad bar, dessert bar and ice cream bar. “We are very careful with our food,” Wilder points out. “Some people have allergies to peanuts and shellfish, so those foods are placed in special locations that are separated from other food items.” The restaurant now has 70 employees, some of whom have worked there for more than 30

years. Wilder says that the restaurant is big on staff development. “We train our employees on how to serve customers and how to treat our customers,” he says. “In fact, we train Trainers to do the training of our employees. Customer service is not rocket science; it is mostly just treating customers exactly how you expect someone to treat you. And we want our customers to have memorable hospitality experiences when they dine with us.” Business is brisk at Western Sizzlin Steak House and is growing, Wilder pointed out. It has gone through a few renovations, the last one being seven or eight years ago. Now the restaurant contains 12,000 square feet and can seat 360 people. The restaurant, also, can host small gatherings for festive occasions. In addition to local folks who frequent the restaurant, Wilder says that many folks traveling through the area from other states stop and eat at Western Sizzlin Steak House. “They are impressed with the service and the food,” he said. “I’ve had a number of them thank us for the service and remark: “I wish we had a restaurant like this. You have made me feel at home.” Wilder said the restaurant is visited frequently by residents of rest homes who come in on the homes’ mini-buses. “Some of them have handicaps and we help them with their seating arrangements and try to assist them in any way that we can.” “Whether you come in for a full meal or just a cup of coffee, you deserve our attention, our devotion to serving you well and our heartfelt thanks for stopping in to experience our hospitality.” Home folks. That’s what Western Sizzlin Steak House in Rocky Mount is all about. The restaurant is located at 1041 Wesleyan Blvd., Rocky Mount. Serving hours are Sunday - Thursday, 11 A.M to 10 P.M. and Friday and Saturday, 11 A.M. to l1 P.M.

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2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

elcome W

To the 2014 edition of

Tim Martin

BoBBy murray toyota - page 8

Debbie Outlaw Tommy Cliett Debbie Haggerty Heather Seale amy’s Hallmark our lady oF perpetual Adam Gardner Freedom Credit union - page 9 aBundantly more - page 12

Clyde Bailey Neill Nelson

Bailey’s Fine Jewelry - page 6

davenport autopark - page 25

Sasser east Carolina kitCHen Jackie Price Michael

Harrison Family ymCa - page 21

& BatH

- page 30

Deborah Lamm Jeff Medlin edgeComBe Community College

- page 28

medlin Hyundai - page 14

Bill Bulluck Dee Dee Smith

don BulluCk CHevrolet - page 5

osBorne Jewelers - page 39

western sizzlin - page 7

Help CatHoliC sCHool - page 26

Just what does it take to succeed in business? Some may say it takes vision, creativity, leadership and a drive to make your company the best it can be. Others might say it takes adaptability and a focus on ensuring satisfied customers. In reality, it takes all of these things and more. The companies and individuals profiled in the publication you are holding – our inaugural Greater Rocky Mount Area Profiles of Success – are shining examples of how to run a successful business in an ever-changing marketplace. We encourage you to learn more about some of the most successful businesses and business people in the Twin Counties by spending some time reading this unique new publication. It is the hard work of these individuals that is helping to revitalize our area and make it a better place to live, work, play and, of course, do business.

uniFirst

- page 27

Tonya Blalock Tarrick Pittman Century 21 Coolgeeks tHe ComBs Company - page 24

Phil Viverette viverette Furniture - page 21

Jim Womble

Home HealtH Care supplies, inC. - page 22

Computer repair - page 22

Mary Ruffin

nationwide insuranCe - page 23

David L. Joyner gateway Centre - page 31

Averitte Ashley Pittman Richard smitHField’s CHiCken ‘n golden east Crossing - page 15

Bar-B-Q

- page 10

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❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Profiles give insight of hard ADVERTISING INDEX ❱Jack McManus – 18 ❱97 Auto – 35 work required to succeed ❱Jammy Mitchell ❱Aamco Transmissions – 19

Several months ago, when we were finalizing plans for our 2014 special section calendar at the Telegram, we were excited about a new magazine we would publish during the first quarter of the new year. Today, we’re finally seeing just how warranted our excitement was. The response from area businesses to our Profiles of Success magazine has been tremendous, and, as we began to interview these business people we recognized that each and every one of them has a unique story to tell. They’ve all gotten to where they are today through a combination of hard work, creativity and perseverance. To each, success may have a similar definition, but its achievement has been realized through a myriad of strategies and approaches. Our thanks to the area business professionals who permitted a glimpse into their work lives and to our project writers who did such a wonderful job capturing these varied stories. Linda Lyter, Bill Stancil and Jenny White each devoted much of the schedules to these stories over the past several weeks, and their effort is a major factor for the excitement we hold for this inaugural issue. Finally, project editor and designer Jeanne Brown displayed her usual flair and devotion to produce a topnotch publication we, and our success “profilies,” can be proud of. I hope these profiles give you some insight into the dedication of the people who make up the Twin Counties’ business community and that you’ll enjoy reading it as StanciL White Lyter much as we have enjoyed bringing it to you.

Jon M. Noel

Advertising & Marketing Director

2014 Profiles of

SUCCESS

1000 Hunter Hill Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 Phone 252-446-5161 www.rockymounttelegram.com

PUBLISHER: Mark Wilson ADVERTISING AND MARKETING DIRECTOR: Jon Noel

ADVERTISING SALES: Chris Taylor, James Heidelmeier, Bryan Wilson, Dorea Nunery, Kim Taylor, Ty Randolph, Kim Bandy, Rachel Watson and Quasha McNeal

PROJECT EDITOR/DESIGNER: GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Beth Johnson, Lamonte Blue Jeanne Brown PROJECT WRITERS: Linda Lyter, Bill Stancil, Jenny White

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Ashley Cox

❱Amy’s Hallmark Abundantly More – 13 ❱Autumn Care of Nash – 20 ❱Awe-Home Repair & Construction – 34 ❱B & H Realty, Inc. – 18 ❱Bailey’s Fine Jewelry – 7 ❱Bandy Heating & Air – 20 ❱Batts Tree Service – 19 ❱Bill Goode Photography – 18 ❱Braswell Foods – 16 ❱Braswell Memorial Library – 16 ❱Carolina Tire Co. – 17 ❱Caroline O’Garro-Moore, Attorney – 20 ❱Cecil Capps Realty Co. – 17, 35 ❱Chair & Equipment Rentals – 17 ❱ChemDry – 20 ❱Coastal Wrecker Service, Inc. – 17 ❱Daughtridge Gas – 16 ❱Dental Care Center – 35 ❱Dickens Funeral Service – 18 ❱Dixon’s Blind & Awning – 16 ❱East Carolina Kitchen & Bath – 30 ❱Edgecombe Community College – 28 ❱Edward Jones – 6 ❱Fireplace Creation, Inc. – 19 ❱First Carolina Realty, Inc. – 20, 36 ❱Floras Glass & Mirror – 17 ❱Gus H. Tulloss Insurance – 37 ❱Hair Trends Salon – 37 ❱Hampton Village – 19 ❱Harper’s Garden & Stone Center – 17 ❱Hunter Hills Nursing & Rehabilitation Center – 18 ❱Hunter-Odom Funeral Service – 16 ❱Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi – 19 ❱Interim Healthcare – 19 ❱J & J’s Kitchen & Catering – 18, 36

Auto Sales – 20 ❱Jody’s of Nashville – 19 ❱Jon-Chelles Salon – 17 ❱John’s Gifts & Reproductions – 18 ❱Joyner’s Heating & Air Conditioning – 17 ❱Leon’s U-Stor-It – 18 ❱Merry Maids – 34 ❱Metro Maintenance, Inc. – 34 ❱Mobileville USA, Inc. – 36 ❱Moye Fence Co. – 18 ❱Murray’s Auto and Tire Center – 17 ❱Nashcombe Realty – 18 ❱Osborne Jewelers – 40 ❱Parker & Davis Insurance Agencies – 19 ❱People’s Termite & Pest Control – 18 ❱R & L Garage Doors – 20 ❱Richardson Funeral Home – 16 ❱Rigby Electric Supply – 17 ❱Riverside Veterinary Hospital – 37 ❱Rocky Mount Radiator – 16 ❱ServPro – 20 ❱Shelley Milburn Nationwide Insurance – 37 ❱Simply Frazier Salon – 36 ❱Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q – 11 ❱Strickland Equipment Co. – 16 ❱Sutton’s Framing & Gallery – 20 ❱The Bath Place – 35 ❱The Rug Shack – 20 ❱The Uniform House – 17 ❱The Wright’s Center – 19 ❱Tonya Blalock – 24 ❱Totally You – 20 ❱Tri-County Arts Complex – 19 ❱UniFirst – 16, 27 ❱Wayne’s Roofing – 34 ❱Wholesale Paint Center – 17 ❱Wires, Inc. – 20

STORY INDEX ❱Amy’s Hallmark Abundantly More – 12 ❱Bailey’s Fine Jewelry – 6 ❱Bobby Murray Toyota – 8 ❱Don Bulluck Chevrolet - 5 ❱CoolGeeks – 22 ❱Davenport Autopark – 25 ❱East Carolina Kitchen & Bath – 30 ❱Edgecombe Comm. Col – 28 ❱Freedom Credit Union – 9 ❱Gateway Convention Centre – 31 ❱Golden East Crossing – 15

❱Harrison Family YMCA – 21 ❱Home Health Care Supplies – 22 ❱Mary Ruffin Agency – 23 ❱Medlin Hyundai – 14 ❱Osborne Jewelers – 39 ❱Our Lady of Perpetual Help – 26 ❱Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q – 10 ❱Tonya Blalock/Realtor – 24 ❱UniFirst – 27 ❱Viverette Furniture – 21 ❱Western Sizzlin - 2

DON BULLUCK CHEVROLET ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

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Staff of Don Bulluck Chevrolet

Don Bulluck Chevrolet is the complete package 1920 Wesleyan Boulevard Rocky Mount, NC 27804 Sales:252.557.2671 Service:252.557.2675 www.bulluckchevrolet.com

DON BULLUCK

n 1917, two historical events took place in the South. The Moon Pie was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Bulluck Auto Sales was started on Tarboro Street in Rocky Mount by Don Bulluck, Sr., an ex-gramophone salesman. It eventually became Don Bulluck Chevrolet and it continues to be family run by grandsons Bill and Trey. The dealership is very excited about their upcoming 100th anniversary. They believe that their success and staying power is multi-faceted. They have an award-winning product and an award-winning, veteran sales staff who is constantly working to improve their knowledge of their product. They are also very proud of their highly trained, award-winning, ASE Certified service technicians. Together they offer their customers an enjoyable buying experience and complete, dependable service after the sale. The dealership has recently completed a major renovation project which covered the showroom, offices and the service area. It is the third renovation in the past 35 years. They believe that maintaining a modern building is as important as excellent sales and service. Awards and recognitions include placing in the Telegram’s Reader’s Choice in various categories. Last year they were #1 in used car outlets in the tri-county area. Nationally, the dealership was a finalist in Time Magazine’s Quality Award in 1984. In 2012, Marilyn Conney, Service Consultant, was the named the #1 Service Writer in the US by the Service Writer’s Guild. The dealership also won the Chevrolet prestigious Sales Improvement Leaders Award in 2013. The Bullucks have always been active in the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association where Trey and his dad have held various offices, including past president held by Don Jr. Bill was past president of the Southeast Chevrolet Dealers Association. Their mission is to give the customer an enjoyable, trouble-free buying experience. “Often people

liken the car buying experience to pulling teeth,” Bill said. Their goal is to listen to the customer to find the best car which suits their wants and needs. Their core values are honesty, truthfulness and integrity towards customers, vendors and employees and treating customers like they would want their own family members treated. “We don’t have a lot of turn-over here,” Bill said. “When we do an interview, we look for someone who is a team player. There is no room for selfishness here.” He said that he needs people who will service another salesperson’s customer just as thoroughly as what they would do for their own customer. Don Bulluck Chevrolet’s Lifetime Care Program allows customers to have their vehicle maintained after the sale. If the customer is leaving for a trip, they can stop by for a check-up.” They drive right in and don’t even have to get out of the vehicle. They will check fluids, tire pressure and give it a good going over. The Bullucks believe that it is important to have all maintenance done in one place. This continuity of care allows them to properly maintain the vehicle which extends the life of the vehicle. Bill said, “A properly maintained vehicle should easily last over 200,000 miles these days.” Regular maintenance such as oil changes and tire rotations also let the customer know about future needs such as new tires ahead of time, avoiding last minute surprises. The dealership is one of a few in the area with a collision shop onsite, which repairs all types of cars, both foreign and domestic. Don Bulluck Chevrolet supports many organizations including the Boys and Girls Club, and they enter a team in the local Relay for Life. They have sponsored charity golf tournaments. They own a pig cooker and a drink wagon which they lend out for fund-raising events throughout the community. The Bulluck family believes in giving back to the community because it is the right thing to do. “This is something dad passed on to my brother and me,” Bill said.

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BAILEY’S FINE JEWELRY ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Jeweler has served community for more than six decades 117 Winstead Avenue Rocky Mount, NC 27804 800.849.7676 www.baileybox.com

here is only one place that has provided generations in Rocky Mount with the finest in designer and custom jewelry. For more than 65 years patrons have visited Bailey’s Fine Jewelry to find exquisite designer jewelry for life’s special occasions. The Bailey’s Fine Jewelry story is one steeped in family, tradition, innovation and excellence. The family owned-and-operated jeweler was founded in Rocky Mount and is committed to providing superior service and the best in today’s designer jewelry, including the high-end designer, David Yurman. Bailey’s introduced David Yurman to North Carolina, as the first independently owned jeweler to carry the high-end designer jewelry. With the trademark cable bracelet, David Yurman created a classic and effortless design that later came to define his brand. “We strive to provide stunning pieces for our patrons” said Clyde Bailey, pictured, president and owner of Bailey’s Fine Jewelry. “David Yurman creates expertly hand-crafted and elegant pieces that are in high demand across the globe.” David Yurman is now internationally recognized as America’s leading fine jewelry and timepiece brand. From classic and elegant designs to new and innovative pieces, each

original piece is a work of art that delicately adorns elegant hands and wrists of celebrities and designer fans alike. David Yurman jewelry is meticulously crafted from only the finest precious metals and rarest gemstones by the world’s most talented craftsmen. In addition to David Yurman, Bailey’s carries other high-end designer jewelry collections including John Hardy, Ippolita and Slane. “It’s a joy and honor to serve the Rocky Mount community,” said Bailey, who was born and raised locally. “This is where our business started and we are blessed to have served the community for more than six decades.” The jeweler’s commitment to excellence stems from its early days during which “Big Clyde” and “Mama Ann” Bailey created a friendly and unique culture at the company’s founding location in Rocky Mount. “The special ingredient at Bailey’s is the heart of our people” said Bailey, who adopted the well know ‘Bailey Box’. “We have a happy heart to serve our patrons and we enjoy being part of so many of life’s special occasions.” The family’s friendly approach, commitment to service and willingness to think outside the box created a unique culture that lives on as the third generation of the Bailey’s family business works to bring the latest designer jewelry to Rocky Mount.

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WESTERN SIZZLIN ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

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Anne Cliett, Ron Wilder and Cindy Wilder of the Rocky Mount Western Sizzlin.

Experience the hospitality at Western Sizzlin 1041 Wesleyan Boulevard Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.446.3262 western-sizzlincom.myshopify.com

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BOBBY MURRAY TOYOTA ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Staff of Bobby Murray Toyota

People doing business with People 943 N. Wesleyan Boulevard Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.977.0224 1.800.745.2686 www.bmurraytoyota.com

rom the time the customer walks through the door, they are treated like a member of the family. “We know every customer by name,” said Tim Martin, General Manager at Bobby Murray Toyota. Their mantra is, “We are employees who genuinely care for each other and our customers and we strive always to express it.” The sales staff has over 100 years of combined experience and the management team has over 140 combined years with the dealership. The entire staff is very proud of their longevity and their family atmosphere. Taking care of the customer is the number one importance at Bobby Murray Toyota. James Barnes, Toyota Sales Manager, said that taking care of the customer has been the main priority as long as he can remember. “Without our customers, we don’t have jobs,” he said. Steve Sturgill, Used Car Sales Manager, said that he can remember 18 years ago when taking care of the customer was drummed into their minds constantly and posted for all to see. Continuous improvement is very important to both the dealership and to Toyota. They take customer opinions very seriously regarding both the dealership and the product. The people at Toyota listen to them. Toyota’s home office sends out surveys to new owners and base various national awards on those results. Bobby Murray Toyota has won the J.D.Powers Award for Customer Satisfaction for several years. In 2000 there were only 30 dealerships in the US which won this prestigious award. Bobby Murray Toyota was one of those 30. They are the only dealership in the state which won it four years in a row and one of only 15 nationwide. They have also won the Toyota President’s Award for several years. This award is based on overall performance including sales, service, training and financing. They are proud of the fact that they have a female Service Manager, Bridget Mills who has been with Bobby Murray Toyota for 27 years. “Our service Department is open until 4pm on Saturdays,” Mills said. “Most everyone else is only open until

noon.” Their Service Department is staffed with technicians which are all highly trained and ASC Certified. Their Credit Doctor Department offers understanding help with financing for those customers with challenging credit. Their number one goal during this process is to treat customers with respect and dignity through a difficult and often embarrassing process. The dealership participates in Toyota’s Rent A Car Program (TRAC). People can rent a new Toyota for business or personal travel, while body shop or service repairs are being done or to try before they buy. Rick Smith, Parts Manager said that they conduct quarterly New Owner Events, where new Toyota owners are treated to dinner and have an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about their vehicle and get to know the staff on a more personal level. Community participation is a cornerstone of Bobby Murray Toyota. Martin’s Father died of Lou Gehrig’s Disease, As a result, they hold a Muscular Dystrophy “Jail Bail” event every year. This year it will be held on Wednesday, July 16th. People can have someone “arrested” and brought to jail at the dealership. They then make phone calls to raise money for “bail.” The staff at Bobby Murray Toyota are passionate about supporting education. As an ECU graduate, Martin is a member of the ECU Educational Foundation Executive Committee. They also support NC Wesleyan and Nash Community College. They participate in a program called Little People, which distributes educational materials about life to elementary schools. They sponsor many golf tournaments throughout the season and donate vehicles for hole-in-one contests. They provide cars for VIPs to ride in during Christmas Parades throughout the area. The folks at Bobby Murray Toyota believe in giving back to the community which supports them because “that’s what you do for family.”

FREEDOM CREDIT UNION ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

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Freedom Credit Union Director of Membership Development Heather Seale,3rd from left, is shown with some of the North Winstead Avenue staff.

People before profits since 1952 1080 North Winstead Avenue Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.442.8888 www.freedomfcu.com

hen you talk about home grown you’re talking about Freedom Credit Union. Freedom was chartered in Rocky Mount in 1952 and has been making members happy ever since. Its headquarters and main branch are still located in Rocky Mount, with full-service branches also in Henderson, Raleigh and Cary, NC. As a member-owned not-for-profit financial institution, Freedom’s earnings are given back to members in the form of dividends and lower loan interest rates. Freedom is proud to provide individuals with the “relationship you deserve,” where superior member service is combined with excellent money saving and earning opportunities. “You’ll never be treated as just a number here at Freedom,” says Heather Seale, Director of Membership Development, “Our staff truly enjoys member conversations and knows many members by name.” Membership in Freedom is both community and employer based. Individuals who live, work or worship in Rocky Mount and surrounding communities are eligible for membership, as well as employees of over 120 sponsoring companies in Raleigh, Rocky Mount and Eastern NC. All members begin their relationship with a savings account, opened with a minimum deposit of $25. But that’s just the beginning. Freedom offers a full array of loan products including credit cards with no annual fee, fixedrate home equity lines with no closing costs, first mortgages and student loan programs for current college students and recent graduates. Freedom also provides a complete range of deposit options such as CDs, IRAs and two checking account choices that also earn dividends. “The relationship you deserve doesn’t stop with a savings account,” says Seale, “and our member service representatives work hard to understand each member’s unique financial needs.” Freedom excels when it comes to saving members money on new, used or refinanced auto loans. The Freedom website, www. freedomfcu.com, contains an impressive number of “Member Success Stories” which high-

light instances where Freedom offered members lower interest rates, lower monthly payments, and lower-cost GAP insurance products than dealerships. “Members who get pre-approved prior to car shopping are saved a lot of time and stress at the dealership,” Seale continues “Freedom will always offer our members the best rate they qualify for, and knowing the rate they deserve provides members with extra negotiating power at the dealership.” Freedom has working relationships with auto dealerships in the area so members can get their loans from Freedom through the dealership if working with a branch is not convenient. Non-members can even join Freedom at the dealership and take advantage of Freedom’s great terms. Seale says, “We encourage our members to insist on Freedom financing at the dealership, but we can help even if they finance elsewhere. In most cases, we can refinance an auto loan, saving a member substantial money over the term of the loan.” Freedom also values its relationship with Rocky Mount, and is very proud to support athletics in the community. For a number of years, Freedom has been the title sponsor of WHIG TV’s High School Football Game of the Week broadcast. “Look for us at the entrance gates, handing out magnets and other Freedom goodies,” Seale said. This spring they expanded their support and became the title sponsor of the WHIG TV High School Basketball Game of the Week. Continuing their support of athletics, last fall Freedom signed on to be the presenting sponsor of Tar River Running Company’s local Belmont 5 running race. Seale said, “We are proud to support The Belmont 5 and enjoy serving as volunteers at the event. We plan to present this race for at least three years.” One thing has remained consistent since 1952 – Freedom Credit Union’s commitment to its members, to its community and to the credit union philosophy. Freedom follows the “not for profit, not for charity, but for service” principle to serve members with more than just products. Freedom gives members the relationship they deserve.

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SMITHFIELD’S CHICKEN ‘N BAR-B-Q ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q’s Rocky Mount location originally opened in 2007.

Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q grateful to serve since 1964 670 N. Wesleyan Boulevard Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.937.3032 www.scnbnc.com

mithfield’s. The name is not to be confused with a place in Virginia that is famous for its hams. Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q restaurants were born in Smithfield, NC in 1964, beside a movie theater, and the food is pure ‘downhome’ Carolina-style good. And there are 34 of the restaurants across North Carolina. “We are just grateful to be serving the public,” says Richard Averitte, Vice-President of Operations of the company restaurants, including Rocky Mount at 670 N. Wesleyan Blvd. and Nashville at 1169 Eastern Ave. “The Rocky Mount restaurant opened in 2007. It was damaged by a fire and closed in 2012. It was rebuilt and reopened on June 13, 2013. The Nashville restaurant opened in 2008. Our goal is to provide fresh, home-styled meals served by a courteous and friendly staff. You can enjoy dining in, takeout or drive-thru service,” says Averitte. While you and I were sleeping last night, pork shoulders were being cooked to perfection at Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q restaurants. Early this morning, fresh barbecue, chicken tenders and other food dishes were prepared and ready for the opening at 10 a.m. Restaurant hours are: SundayThursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11p.m. Each of the restaurants make their own food. “They cook their own pork shoulders at night for Bar-B-Q and all of the food is made fresh every morning. That’s something we are really proud of; it’s something we can hang our hat on,” Averitte said. In addition to preparing food for sit-down, takeout and drive-thru orders, the restaurants also prepare ‘party paks’. “We make them in sizes for 20 - 30 and 50 people,” Averitte points out. “Party Paks are purchased by individuals for a gathering or businesses for their customers.” Each restaurant has about 20 employees who

take care of customer orders inside and outside. The restaurants can accommodate handicapped diners, also. Averitte says that the Rocky Mount and Nashville restaurants have handicapped parking and each has a seating capacity of 120 people. “We are so proud to be serving this area,” Averitte stated. “We like keeping our motto simple - Grateful To Serve - If we serve a great product in clean restaurants and treat our customers right, they will take care of us.” Averitte says the restaurants gladly take part in supporting the communities. “We feel an obligation to be responsible citizens and take part in our community functions,” he states. “We have done some things for the Big Bother and Big Sister programs

and have supplied food for blood drives and donated to our schools.”

When you enter a Smithfield’s restaurant here, one of the first things you notice is the music. In an instant, almost, you have stepped back into the 1950s and 1960s, and you may find yourself remembering your younger years. The music comes from a satellite radio in each restaurant that is set to that music station. Averitte says that it is particularly enjoyed by Sunday diners. “We treasure our Sunday dinners,” he declares. “Many times, folks come here for dinner after church services. They not only love the food, but the music, too. They like to chat with each other and sort of catch up on things in the community. And sometimes, it may be the only time during the week that they get to see each other and just relax and talk about their lives. We get a lot of good remarks about the Sunday dinners.” Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q captures the essence of hitting the right notes of community support: good food, good service and clean restaurants, “And we treasure that above all else,” Averitte declares.

❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

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AMY’S HALLMARK/ABUNDANTLY MORE ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Amy’s Hallmark/Abundantly More Boutique carries a large selection of Vera Bradley and other popular boutique lines.

One on one customer service for all occassions 3623 Sunset Avenue Rocky Mount, NC 27804 Abundantly More 252.937.4934 www.abundantly-more.com Amy’s Hallmark 252.443.2203 www.amys-hallmark.com

Amy’s Hallmark

Abundantly More

my’s Hallmark/Abundantly More Boutique, located in the Westridge Shopping Center, pride themselves on serving not one, but TWO niche markets: Cards, seasonal decor and gift items on the Amy’s Hallmark side of the store and the Abundantly More Boutique is a women’s boutique, offering clothing, accessories, shoes and fashion jewelry. “We love our customers – we have the best customers you could ask for. So many of our clients come in repeatedly, so we are able to build a relationship with them. Whether we call them when something they’re looking for comes back in stock, or we ask about their kids when they’re shopping – we really know and care about our customers,” said Debbie Outlaw, manager of both stores. Outlaw said the stores are lucky in that they get to celebrate life’s moments, together with their customers. “Anniversaries, birthdays, Christmas, graduations – many of our customers come in to buy something, when they’re celebrating something,” adds Outlaw. As in most small businesses, customer service at Amy’s Hallmark and Abundantly More Boutique is not something you can find at a larger, box store. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and eager to assist. The core values all staff believe in include: Integrity, respect, passion, genuine, the very best. The store owned by Jack and Amy Winslow, employs 18 sales staff. Amy’s Hallmark is always stocked with seasonal décor and cards. Other items found in this part of the store includes Yankee Candles, Disney collectibles, Tervis Tumblers, a large inventory of fine stationary, gift wrap materials, Crabtree and Evelyn and Thymes soaps, lotions and room sprays, gourmet candies, outside décor, books, puzzles, children’s toys and home décor. Right now, customers can find Easter-themed items, perfect for children or adults. The Abundantly More Boutique is a favorite shopping spot for local women. The store features

upscale clothing, shoes and accessories, as well as Vera Bradley, Brighton and Pandora jewelry. “We love to find niche products and artists to feature,” said Outlaw, “Items you won’t find anywhere else in the Twin Counties.” One of Outlaw’s favorite jewelry lines in the boutique is John Wind’s line of bracelets and necklaces, which feature charms and accents with a vintage feel. “They remind you of pieces you’d find in your grandmother’s jewelry box, but with a definite modern look to them,” Outlaw commented. Also popular in the Abundantly More Boutique is their large inventory of Ugg of Australia boots. With sizes and styles suitable for children to adults, no other local store carries the Ugg of Australia brand like Abundantly More. The boots are carried yearround in multiple styles. A few of the popular clothing lines carried in Abundantly More include Multiples, French Dressing Jeans and Slimsation pants. Shoe lines carried include Merrells, Dansko, Aetrex, Naot, Jack Rogers, Rainbow and Sanuk, Roma boots, Onex and the hot new shoes for spring and summer, Bernie Mev sandals and casual shoes. Another shoe brand sold at Abundantly More Boutique, Vionic with Ortha-heel technoogy, is one of the most a comforting shoes you can find, and it comes with an exceptional guarantee. One of the newer lines of products Abundantly More has started carrying is the Spartina 449 line, which offers jewelry, scarves, linen and leather handbags. In bright colors and patterns –they’re perfect additions to spruce up your winter wardrobe and add to your spring/summer styles. Amy’s Hallmark has been offering cards, gifts and so much more for every occasion since 1992. “We are an uplifting, fun environment where Christ is honored and customers are respected; many feel they are part of our family,” said Outlaw. “We invite you to shop with us and discover the difference,” Outlaw added.

Page 13

❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

“It’s always fun to shop with your friends!”

Abundantly More Boutique

Amy’s Hallmark

at Amy’s Hallmark

“Not your average Hallmark Store.”

www.abundantly-more.com

amys-hallmark.com

Open Mon.-Fri. 9:30 am-9:00 pm, Sat. 9:30 am-6:00 pm, Closed Sunday for Worship 3623 Sunset Avenue / 937-4934 / 443-2203

Page 14

MEDLIN HYUNDAI ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

(From left) Randy Townsend - Int. Mgr., Toby Sharpe - Sales, Corinne Roebuck - Office, Don Brady - GM, Tara Pittman - Office, Scott Maness - Sales Mgr., Jeff Medlin - Owner, Wes Coggin - Sales, Kenneth Battle - Sales, Troy Black - Sales.

Medlin, a trusted name in autos for over 40 years 1800 N. Wesleyan Boulevard Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.985.2601 www.medlinhyundai.com

MEDLIN

f you’re in the market for a new car, you can go to any dealership selling quality vehicles in the make and model that you are looking for. But the most important thing that should be in your mind when making such an important purchase is to buy from a dealer that you can trust. Jeff Medlin, owner of Medlin Hyundai, strives to make their dealership the one you can trust. He believes that that is why Medlin Hyundai has regularly achieved top standings in both sales and service satisfaction ranking with Hyundai Motor America and why they are celebrating their 20th Anniversary in business this year. The Medlin family has been in the car business for over 40 years. Medlin Motors was established in 1994, selling quality pre-owned vehicles. In December 1996 they acquired the Hyundai franchise. Today the business is still family owned with Jeff overseeing the Rocky Mount business and brother Jack overseeing the Mazda/GMC dealership in Wilson. Medlin is very proud of his entire team. The management staff has over 100 years of combined experience and the sales staff has over 70 years of sales experience. Their ASE Certified Service Technicians are continually attending training and their specially trained and certified Equus Technician, Dan Williams, has been working on Hyundai’s for 17 years. Their service department has been rated #1 in the district for two quarters. They all work very hard at every level to take care of their customers and are continually striving to ensure a positive and pleasant customer experience before and after the sale. “We took a chance with Hyundai,” Medlin said. “In the early days, people didn’t know much about the vehicle, and frankly, being a new vehicle on the market, there were some kinks to be worked out.” Today, Hyundai leads the market with their 10 year/100,000

mile powertrain warranty, which is the best warranty available. In recent years, Hyundai has continued to be one of the most sought after vehicles in the industry and enjoys a high resale value. Hyundai is the only make which has a model in every price range, from the economical Accent to the full luxury Equus. There are currently a total of 9 models in that range. Over half of the Hyundai line is made in the USA. Through Medlin, Equus owner enjoys valet service which includes picking up the vehicle at the customer’s place of work and drops it off afterwards. As part of their service, they wash and detail the vehicle free of charge. Equus owners receive regularly scheduled maintenance free for the first 3 years. When in the market for a full luxury vehicle, people drive to Raleigh or Greenville for an Audi, Acura, Infinity, Mercedes, BMW or Cadillac dealer. Medlin wants people to know they have a beautiful, luxurious, reliable vehicle which perfectly fits the bill right in their own backyard. Medlin Hyundai offers a Loyalty Program which rewards customers for having their service done there. They also have a Gold Rewards Program which rewards customers for referring their friends and family. Medlin Hyundai’s financing team had many options available which will enable to customer to own the vehicle of their dreams. Hyundai and Medlin is the proud sponsor of Hope On Wheels, a project which supports various facilities, including Duke University, in wiping out childhood cancer. Since 1998, a portion of the price of every new Hyundai sold in the U.S. is donated to pediatric cancer research.

GOLDEN EAST CROSSING ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Page 15

Visitors enjoy a meal at the food court in Golden East Crossing.

Golden East Crossing much more than a shopping mall 1100 N. Wesleyan Boulevard Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.977.6464 www.goldeneastcrossing.com

ince Ashley Pittman became the Marketing Director of Golden East Crossing, her number one goal has been to create a place for families to spend the day and have fun together. Pittman said that the favorite part of her job is interacting with tenants and customers, especially during events. The mall first opened on August 6, 1986 with JC Penney, Belk and Roses as the anchors. Over the years stores have gone and new ones have come in. “We do a pretty good job of keeping stores full,” Pittman said. “We have a good variety of national stores, which customers want. We can continue to give the community what they want if they support the mall by coming and keeping their money locally. That’s how we will keep the mall full with great stores.” There is a lot to keep kids busy. The Golden East Express, the trackless train runs all year long. There is Zero Gravity, the trampoline for older kids and adults. Pittman makes it a point to hold many of the activities during the summer months when the kids are out of school. Bounce N’ Around does birthday parties. They work with food court tenants like Great American Cookies and Ruffino’s Pizza or Subway to supply everything for the party right there. Pittman brings a variety of events into the mall. Dot McStuffin, Dora and Diego, Elmo and Big Bird were here. Cat and the Hat was here in conjunction with Books A Million and Read Across America. Krispy Kreme and Pepsi provided refreshments, and a local Orthodontist provided handouts for the kids. The Cub Scouts held their annual Pinewood Derby in the mall. Spring features a mall-wide Easter egg hunt and Mommy and Me Tea For Two in conjunction with Mother’s Day. “This event is so much fun,” Pittman

said. “The little girls come in their princess dresses. I love watching them interact.” There will also be a free BP clinic by Nash nurses. June will feature Senior Day at the Mall. There will be 40-50 vendors from the health field. There will be lots of activities including the popular senior fashion show. The fall features the annual events such as Back 2 School Bookbag Giveaway, Mall-O-Ween Booh Bash. Many of the events they hold are community fundraisers. Nash Co. Relay for Life held a mini relay. The Girl Scouts conduct their cookie sales there. The Salvation Army Angel Tree is on display for people to take an angel and purchase a gift. “All angels were gone last year,” Pittman said. “That says a lot about the generosity of our community.” The VFW sets up a tree to honor public service workers such as fire, police, nurses, etc. At Christmas, Santa and team visited some schools and day care centers to hand out candy and do activities. Last year the mall donated to Nash Healthcare Foundation to support pediatric ER. Pittman said that she has a great collaboration with local businesses such as Krispy Kreme and Hardees. They donate coupons for various events and they get their business marketed in the process. It’s a win-win for everyone. “The Pacesetters Group is the eyes and ears of the mall,” Pittman said. “If anything is happening in the mall, they know about it.” They meet on the 1st Thursday of each month 8am in food court. She provides breakfast from Chik Fil la. It is a great time for the members to socialize and talk about what is going on in the mall. Readers can keep up with what’s happening on their website www.goldeneastcrossing.com

Page 16

â?ą 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Years In Business 105 Years in Business

)VOUFS 0EPN 'VOFSBM 4FSWJDF

90 Years in Business

84 Years in Business

STRICKLAND EQUIPMENT CO. For Your Lawn & Garden Needs Since 1949

240 Atlantic Ave. Rocky Mount, NC 27804

309 S. Barnes St. Nashville, NC 27856

Mary Crotts

252-977-3122

252-459-2713

Join Us On Facebook

95 Years in Business

Richardson Funeral Home Serving you since 1918

Since 1923

607 S. Main Street Louisburg

727 N. Grace St. Rocky Mount, NC

919-496-4731 204 N. Alston Street Nashville

252-442-1951 www.braswell-library.org

Family Owned & Operated

252-937-8900 550 South Wesleyan Blvd Rocky Mount, NC 27803

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Cooling System Specialistâ&#x20AC;?

PROPANE DIESEL GASOLINE SERVICE 1818 Sunset Avenue Rocky Mount, NC daughtridgeenergy.com

252-446-6137

252-459-3361 Celebrating 86 Years

65 Years in Business

77 Years in Business

71 Years in Business

821 S. Church St. Rocky Mount, NC 27803

252-977-1445 Workwear Uniform Rental Facility Service

105 East Cross Street Nashville, NC

60 Years in Business

Dixonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Blind & Awning Located at

1800 Sunset Avenue

Rocky Mount, NC 27801

â&#x20AC;˘ Plantation Shutters â&#x20AC;˘ Wood Blinds â&#x20AC;˘ Custom Picture Framing â&#x20AC;˘ Security Doors â&#x20AC;˘ Storm Doors â&#x20AC;˘ Ornamental Iron Rails

252-442-2145

Page 17

❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Years In Business 62 Years in Business

Serving the community for more than 59 years

977-7880

1530 N. WESLEYAN BLVD ROCKY MOUNT NC 27804

53 Years in Business

COASTAL WRECKER SERVICE, INC. • Lowboy Service for Heavy Equipment • Air Cushions • Local & Long Distance • Light-Heavy Duty Wreckers • Truck Tire Service • Rollback Service • Tire Service & Road Service (Cars • Heavy Equipment Forklifts) Work

FULL SERVICE AUTO CENTER • Tune Ups • Brake Repair • State Inspections • A/C Service • Wheel Alignment • Lube & Oil Changes

56 Years In Business

24-HOUR WRECKER SERVICE CALL DAY OR NIGHT TOLL FREE 1-800-849-1025 ROCKY MOUNT

977-1025

WILSON

237-2818

Serving Your Area For Over 40 Years! We Are A Complete Garden Center • Natural & Man-Made Stone • Straw/Mulch • Planting Supplies Mike & Jan Harper, Owners 2145 Oak Level Rd.

1525 N. Wesleyan Blvd. • Rocky Mt.

1-800-422-TENT

52 Years in Business

41 Years in Business

In Business Since 1974

WHOLESALE PAINT CENTER

Rigby Electric Supply Inc

Murrays Auto and Tire Center Inc.

ecil C Capps

(252) 972-4566 117 Coeco Cir, Rocky Mount, NC

906 Eastern Avenue Nashville, NC 27856 (252) 459-7545

SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1972

3670 Sunset Avenue Rocky Mount, NC

37 Years in Business

36 Years in Business

35 Years in Business

Wholesale ~ Retail • Paints • Wallcovering • Ladders • Brushes • Rentals • On-Site Decorator • Custom Tinting, Any Color

945 N. Church Street Rocky Mount, NC Open: M-F 7:30-5:30

252-446-6045 39 Years in Business JOYNER’S Heating & Air Conditioning 100% Financing Available On Approval

Sales - Service - Installation 613 Chester St. • Rocky Mount, NC

Alvin Joyner, owner

442-9211

631 Fenner Rd. Rocky Mount, NC

3515 US Hwy.301 W Wilson, NC

252-459-2189

REALTY CO. INC. SALES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT APPRAISALS • RENTALS MLS

DIAL

937-2055

FLORAS GLASS & MIRROR CO. INC.

Concept Salon

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

501 INSTRUMENT DRIVE ROCKY MOUNT

442-4166 Locally Owned & Operated

2525 Sunset Ave. Rocky Mount, NC 27804

252-443-5527 Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-2pm

“Enhancing your natural beauty through nature’s creation”

129 Foy Drive Rocky Mount, NC 27804

937-4161

Page 18

â?ą 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Years In Business 33 Years in Business

Jack McManus Heating & Air Conditioning 3FTJEFOUJBM 4QFDJBMJTUT

4FSWJDF PO "MM .BLFT BOE .PEFMT 4BMFT 4FSWJDF 3FQMBDFNFOUT

5SBOF 'BDUPSZ 5SBJOFE 4UBUF -JD

252-977-3735 1 0 #PY

33 Years in Business

Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Termite & Pest Control Inc. 129 W. Battleboro Ave. Battleboro, NC 27809

252-977-0011

31 Years in Business Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gifts & Reproductions, Inc. John, Carolyn & Scott Atkinson

Started 1982

â&#x20AC;˘ Gifts â&#x20AC;˘ Furniture â&#x20AC;˘ Home Accessories

Christmas trees, wreaths & gifts

1081 North Winstead Ave. Rocky Mount, NC

252-443-2403

$ 4VOTFU "WFOVF 3PDLZ .PVOU /$

3&/5 '"9

www.b-hrealty.com i1SPQFSUZ .BOBHFNFOU JT 0VS 4QFDJBMUZ u

28 Years in Business

DICKENS FUNERAL SERVICE, INC.

LEONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S U-STOR-IT

252-823-1824 252-641-1020 (FAX) JoE W. DICKENS, JR.

Different Sizes Available 24-Hour Access Low Monthly Rental You Furnish Lock - You Have Only Key Boats - Cars - Supplies - Route Salesman

SECRETARY/TREASURER

14218 S 64 Alt. West Near The Fairground

PROMPT, EFFICIENT, PROFESSIONAL

977-1542

MANAGER/OPERATOR

oLGA T. DICKENS

28 Years in Business

# ) 3FBMUZ *OD

Serving You Since 1985

3690 Highway 111 North Tarboro, NC 27886

28 Years in Business

Finding Homes for Families Since 1985

27 Years in Business

Rocky Mount, NC

25 Years in Business

J & Jâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Kitchen and Catering Located at 1721 N. Wesleyan Blvd. Mon.-Fri. 6AM-2PM

Catering Is Our Specialty JoLynn Tyson - Owner

446-6300

5728 Speights Bridge Rd. Stantonsburg, NC 27883

252-238-3766 Fax 252-238-3764 1-800-846-8880

moyefence@embarqmail.com Since 1985

749 Fenner Road, Suite A Rocky Mount, NC 27804

252-972-6830

7369 Hunter Hill Rd. Rocky Mount, NC

443-0867

Page 19

❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Years In Business 24 Years Of Service Adult Day Health Services

• Transportation & Meals Provided Parker & Davis Insurance Agencies Greg Parker & Michael Davis, Agent

252-446-1119 davismi@nationwide.com 101 S. Church St. Rocky Mount

In Business Since 1988 Fireplaces, Wood & Pellet Stoves • Gas Logs • Mantles & Marble

Fireplace Creation, Inc. Open 8:30-4:30 Monday thru Friday 10:00-2:00 Saturday

443 South Wesleyan Blvd. Rocky Mount, NC 27803

252-446-3288 Gary Kirkwood - Owner

• Craft - Music - Exercise • Music Therapy • Personal Care & Health Monitoring by RN • State Certified & Monitored • Veterans Welcome

Save The Date April 24, 2014 25th Anniversary Gala Celebration Honoring Founder Visions, Inc. 513 W. Raleigh Blvd. 252-442-8363

20 Years In Business

Tri-County Arts Complex, Inc.

Dance, Gymnastics & Cheerleading Over 35 Years Teaching Experience 21 National Winners! Recreational & Competitive Classes QUAlITY-CERTIfIEd INSTRUCTORS

1964 Stone Rose drive, Rocky Mount

252-443-9199

Since 1993

21 Years In Business BATTS TREE SERVICE Complete Tree Removal Certified Arborist, Stump Grinding Senior Citizen Discount (Fully Insured Workmans Comp and Liability)

2483 Hurt Drive

Rocky Mount, NC 27802

252-443-7222 20 Years in Business A Quality Consignment Boutique & Health Care Uniform Shop

Monday 12-5 Tuesday-Friday 10-5:30 Saturday 10-3:00

227 W. Washington Street Nashville, NC 27856

Call: 252-289-6435

252-459-2083

“Take A Trip To Japan”

16 Years in Business

ICHIBAN Hampton Village

Authentic Teppanyaki

Art of Japanese Cooking in a Relaxed Atmosphere

Apartments

Steaks • Chicken • Seafood Sushi Bar • All ABC Permits

Call About Our Specials!

191 S. Wesleyan Blvd., Rocky Mount, NC 252-984-0888

Call Today to Schedule Your Personal Tour!

560 Fenner Road Rocky Mount, NC 27804

iCHiBAN JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE & SUSHi

www.aamco.com

One coupon per couple or group. Not valid with other offers. Expires 12/31/14

252-442-1094

www.interimhealthcare.com

Email: tricountyarts@gmail.com

JAPANESE STEAKHOUSE & SUSHi

of Rocky Mount

25 Years in Business

S RT

The Wright’s Center

25 Years in Business UNTY A CO

TRI-

25 Years in Business

Purchase of $40 or More Get $ 5 Off With This Coupon

Professionally Managed by Trademark Residential

252-937-2822

hamptonvillage.com TradeMark Office Hours: Residential M-F 8:30 to 5, 919.510.4010 fax 919.510.4009 Sat. 10 to 2 www.TradeMarkResidential.com

Page 20

❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Years In Business 15 Years in Business

14 Years in Business

15 Years in Business

Bandy

Carolyn O’Garro-Moore

Heating & air Specializing In Installation & Repair For All Your Residential, Commercial and Mobile Homes Needs

252-567-0200

Locally Owned & Operated by John Bandy

Serving Nash County Since March of 2002 “Dedicated To Service Above Self”

Autumn Care of Nash

1210 Eastern Ave. Nashville, NC 27856

252-462-0070

252-462-0673 (FAX) www.autumncorp.com

10 Years in Business

Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Serving • No Soap, No Shampoo Nash,Edgecombe • Fast Drying (1-2 Hours) & Wilson Counties • Removes Dirt, Grease, Stains Independently • Safe For Kids And Pets Owned & • Red Stain Removal, Operated Pet Stains

252-443-4433 www.chem-dry.net/rockymountnc Joey & Denise Barden - Owners

4 Years in Business

3 Years in Business

3713 Dortches Blvd. • Hwy. 43 Rocky Mount, NC 27804

252-972-CARS (2277) After Hours Call: 252-883-6655

“Where The Low Overhead Equals Lowest Prices”

Attorney and Counselor at Law

For all your Real Estate needs think First!

Sunset Towers 168 Roundabout Court P.O. Box 8405 Rocky Mount, NC 27804

252-443-1419

1100 West Thomas Street Rocky Mount, NC 27802

252-443-1493 FAX

252-985-2321

Email: ogarromoore@embarqmail.com

9 Years in Business

5 Years in Business

Drier, Cleaner, Healthier.®

Specializing In Skilled Rehabilitation and Nursing Care

Jammy Mitchell Auto Sales

11 Years in Business

WIRES, INC 338 S. Franklin St. Rocky Mount, NC 27804

(252) 977-9444 3 Years In Business

• CAR AUDIO/VIDEO • CAR & TRUCK ACCESSORIES • SECURITY • WINDOW TINT 252-972-WIRE (9473) www.wiresinccaraudio.com

2 Years in Business

Sutton’s Framing & Gallery Women’s Apparel & Sunless Tanning

2931 Zebulon Rd. The Shoppes at Stoney Creek Rocky Mount, NC 27904 252.443.3000 Totally_You@ymail.com

WE OFFER: Extensive Rug Cleaning & Full Service Flooring Carpet-Vinyl-Tile-Laminate-Hardwoods Rugs & Home Decor

• Featuring Nash County Artists • Painting, Prints & 3D • Custom Framing • Dry Mounting • Conservation Framing • Classic & Modern Designs

Joey & Denise Barden

141 S. Winstead Ave. Rocky Mount

3763 Dortches Blvd. Rocky Mount, NC 27804

(252) 443-2433 Family Owned & Operated

252-443-5999

VIVERETTE FURNITURE & YMCA ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Here to strengthen the community every day 100 Independence Drive Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.972.9622 www.harisonfamilyy.com

Customer loyalty has built Viverette Furniture 244 SW Main Street Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.446.6598 www.viverettefurniture.com

V iverette Furniture

Page 21

munity as a whole. The Annual campaign is currently underway and Price invites the community to donate so the YMCA can continue to offer scholarships, outreach programs and community programs. “Giving just a little can help us pay for something like our youth basketball league. These kids aren’t just playing basketball – they’re building confidence, staying out of trouble, working as a team, making friends and learning life skills,” Price said. “Or giving a little can help pay for one of our certified trainers spending time with a senior coming to the gym for the first time in years. Someone that wouldn’t come back – because it’s new and hard when you first start going to a gym – if they didn’t have that bond and encouragement, welcoming them to come back the next day.” Price encourages that giving just a little can help someone of any age become their best self and make memories to last a lifetime. “Your can give to our cause or even help out our cause by volunteering. Visit our website at www. harrisonfamilyy.org or call 252-972-9622 for more information. We are here to strengthen the community and strive to Live Our Cause every day,” Price said.

orders are a large part of our business,” said Viverette. Mrs. Viverette (Beth) helps customers choose their fabrics and coordinate their furniture needs and fabric designs on furniture purchases in the store and on custom orders. The store offers free delivery in the Twin-County area. “We really have good customers,” said Viverette. “Our business philosophy is to make sure that our customers are satisfied. We do everything we can to accomplish that. We try to give personalized service.” Viverette attends the Furniture Market in High Point, NC to see the new styles each year, so he can relate to customers’ desires for certain types and styles of furniture. “Our family roots are deep in Rocky Mount in the furniture business,” he said. “I graduated from UNC in 1980 and came directly to our furniture business. Customer loyalty has built this business. Through all of the ups and downs we’ve faced over the past 34 years, God has always provided for us. I attribute any success we’ve had to Him.” Viverette’s Furniture has six employees, including Phil and Beth Viverette, and is open Monday - Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

any know the Harrison Family YMCA for their state-of-the-art gym, their reputable and fun after school and summer camp programs and the children’s athletic programs. But to Jacqueline Price, CEO of the Harrison Family YMCA, pictured, she sees the YMCA not as just a facility, but, more importantly, as a cause. Price sees the Harrison Family YMCA as a resource to strengthen the Twin Counties community. “We’re about people, “ said Price. “We change lives by promoting healthy living, developing and implementing social responsibility programs and supporting our local youth by helping them develop into smart, confident team players.” The Harrison Family YMCA provides scholarships to young children and teens to participate in many programs, like the after school programs. The Harrison Family YMCA has grown its membership in recent years and provides programming to people from all walks of life. The YMCA centers everything it does around three core missions: Youth development, promoting healthy living and encouraging social responsibility. Membership fees don’t cover the cost of all the Harrison Family YMCA offers members or the com-

urniture you can sit in, sit on, recline in, rock in, nap on, sleep in and rely on to fill your ideas for decorative, homey and stylish comfort at discount prices is here and located at Viverette Furniture, 140 NW Main Street, Rocky Mount. And there is plenty of it, from the front to the back of the store and on two floors. “We carry a large inventory to fit the tastes of most everyone,” said Phil Viverette, manager, pictured. “We have been part of downtown Rocky Mount for several generations and have deep roots in its history. My father, Willard Viverette, started in the furniture business in 1949, working with Star Furniture for 20 years when it was on Washington Street.” Viverette Furniture, owned by Phil’s mother, Vera, was established here in June of 1980 and through the years has occupied other locations on Main Street. The business was once located in the building formerly occupied by the Carolina Theater. From that location, it moved to the building beside Towel Town, also on Main Street, where it stayed for over 32 years. “We have been in our present location for two years,” Viverette said. “We moved here during the downtown revitalization effort and are blessed to have loyal customers. Many have called, wanting to know where we are relocated.” Although Viverette Furniture carries a large inventory, it also specializes in custom orders. “Custom

Page 22

HOME HEALTH CARE SUPPLIES & COOLGEEKS ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Don’t know where to turn for help & advice? 2487 Hurt Drive Hampton Village Center Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.937.7006 www.ENCHomeHealth.com (252) 937-7233 Hours: 8AM-5PM Monday-Friday STORE FRONT PARKING AVAILABLE

Home Health Care Supplies, Inc.

t Home Health Care Supplies, Inc., we’re making some exciting changes to help customers and clients make more informed decisions about health care benefits. Starting now, one change you may notice in our store is the new associates we have on board. Presently at Home Health Care Supplies, Inc. we have insurance specialists, financial planners and certified senior advisors, all working together. These specialists are available to give you access to quality home medical equipment, insurance knowledge and full financial planning services. Everyone knows what the Federal budget’s long-term problem is: Medicare. Knowing the right answers can save you thousands of dollars. Store owner Jim Womble, pictured, is a Certified Senior Advisor, and along with other Medicare experts at the store, can offer free guidance to seniors who are uninformed, misinformed or just confused about insurance coverage, how Medicare works, what is covered and what to do next. At Home Health Care Supplies, Inc., you’ll get unbiased information in easy-to-understand language about Medicare and other

Upgrading the community one customer at a time 209 NE Main Street Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.212.1551 www.coolgeeksNC.com

he word ‘geek’ often conjures up a vision of suspenders with pants pulled up to their chest, black glasses taped in the middle and wearing a pocket protector. At CoolGeeks, the word ‘geek’ represents knowledge and understanding. Tarrick Pittman, owner of CoolGeeks, pictured, happens to think that it’s cool to be a geek. Pittman opened CoolGeeks in 2009, after he lost his job with Circuit City when they closed. While he worked there, Pittman said he noticed that the customer’s knowledge of their technology was extremely low. “I felt like it was my personal responsibility and made it my mission, based on my experience and knowledge, to touch as many people as I could to increase their knowledge in technology, He does this by not only repairing customer’s technology but, by maintaining an open door policy, people can feel comfortable stopping by and asking questions. When customers come to pick up their product, He feels that it is important to explain to them what he did and what they can do to keep the problem from happening in the future. He also teaches people at the Senior Center with the computers there. “It is a rewarding experience,” Pittman said. Pittman is also passionate about helping people in the community look for technology jobs and

services important to seniors such as: ◆What prescription drug plan is best for me? ◆What happens if I reach the Medicare “doughnut hole” in 2014? ◆Why would I want to switch to a different Medicare Supplement policy? What is the difference between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage? Or Medicare vs Obamacare? ◆What’s the future of Obamacare? ◆How do I control my finances and independence? ◆Have I made the right decision? Health care can be complex. That’s why Jim Womble and Home Health Care Supplies, Inc. strive to make it easier to understand and most beneficial to you. “TEACH WHAT YOU KNOW AND KNOW WHAT YOU TEACH.” We will not only save you money, but also provide the best service and support available. Home Health Care Supplies has requested that the type in their article be enlarged to enhance legibility.

to help the local economy. He also tries to touch as many children as he can. A few of the ways to accomplish that is by doing some speaking engagements at the schools, working with Edgecombe Community College and with mentoring programs in the area. He said that it is extremely important to him for the kids in Nash and Edgecombe Counties to see what he is doing to learn from and be inspired by him. For the past year, Pittman has been working on creating a nonprofit program called The Abacus Connect Project. The goal is give young people and displaced workers a technological foundation which they can continue at the college level. “I do what I do for the community,” Pittman said. He doesn’t look at himself as the business owner, but as working for the people of the area. CoolGeeks is located at 209 NE Main St. in the Douglas Block in Rocky Mount. To learn more about the business, visit them at www.coolgeeksNC.com.

MARY RUFFIN / NATIONWIDE ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

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Susan Emerson is seated. In back from left to right is Jimmy Haden, Mary Ruffin and Dianne Taylor. Cardboard cutout at left is of Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Nationwide driver of the No. 17 Ford Fusion in NASCAR’s top tier.

Mary Ruffin Agency is ‘On Your Side’ for Rocky Mount Residents 1376 Benvenue Road Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.446.2370

ince before the Mary Ruffin Agency was started, Mary Ruffin was committed to excellent customer service. Ruffin started her insurance career as an Adjuster with Nationwide in 1987. She left the company for 15 months. During that time, she quickly realized that the level of customer service that she was able to give was not up to her standards or her customer’s expectations. So she spent those 15 months trying to get back with Nationwide so that she could give the customers the excellent level of service which, according to Ruffin, is second to none in the insurance industry. Unlike most other agencies which are second generation owned and operated, Ruffin opened her own agency in 1997 from scratch with one customer and built the business on her reputation, one customer at a time. Slowly but steadily the agency has grown, meeting her original vision of not becoming so big that she can no longer remember customer’s names. Ruffin says that it is fun to see parents bringing in their young drivers and kids leaving for college and she remembers them as babies early on. She takes pride in knowing customer’s names. “The thing that I enjoy most about my job is developing long term relationships and getting to know my customers and their needs,” Ruffin said. They offer a complete line of property and casualty insurance for personal and business accounts. They also offer life and financial products. Her staff is the backbone of the agency, Ruffin said. Each staff member brings different skills to the table and when combined, they create a friendly, personalized, professional and skilled experience for the customer. They thoroughly understand the products and have a knack of helping the customers understand it. The insurance industry is constantly changing,

and the staff works very hard to stay current with their licensing and knowledgeable about all of the changes taking place. At the time of a claim, which is a very stressful time for people, they can provide more personalized and localized service. Often the first call comes straight to the agency and their immediate reaction is to make sure people are safe and ok. Then they can get some local help, whether it is getting a car towed or some other emergency services to fix a damaged home. After the dust settles, they can help with the claim. They keep in touch with the clients throughout the process to make sure everything is moving forward. Customers have the option of taking care of business on their smart phones with a mobile app or on the Nationwide website, but Ruffin says that most customers prefer to come in personally because they enjoy the friendliness of the staff and the face to face contact. “I am always available for my customers. My cell phone number is on my business card and they can call me directly. Relationships are in place and they know that I will be there for them,” Says Ruffin. If a customer calls the office and wants to speak to Ruffin, they will be put directly through to her. Ruffin graduated from ECU. She has served on the vestry of St. Andrews Episcopal Church. She served as past President of the Nash-Rocky Mount Rotary Club. She has also served on the board and has held other various positions with the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce. She is Board Chair of Tri County Industries, which is a local non-profit agency. Ruffin is grateful to all of her customers who have entrusted the insuring of their belongings to her. It is a responsibility which she takes very seriously. She plans to continue to be there for them for a very long time to come.

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TONYA BLALOCK ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS ocal Realtor Tonya Blalock loves selling L real estate. But her favorite part of being a Realtor is

3051 Sunset Avenue Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.813.1667 www.c21combs.com

‘Matchmaker’

make her your

Talk to Tonya,

THING you want. Know what you’re willing to be flexible about, and what isn’t negotiable. Communicate that with your Realtor. helping families find HOMES they fall in love Be open to new things. Maybe you never with. considered having a wine cooler, Whether it’s a larger home for but maybe it would be great for a growing family or a smaller kids’ to keep their juice boxes. home for some empty nesters Go to your local branch bank or a more physically accessible and sit down with a mortgage home, she thrives and succeeds loan officer and see what kind of matching people with their home financing you qualify for – before sweet home. you start looking. Stick to your A local real estate agent for budget.. over 27 years, Blalock has had Blalock says there are many experience helping buyers and qualities and skills that go into sellers move into their new being an excellent real estate dream home in all kinds of ecoprofessional. nomic markets, including areas ”Integrity, in-depth community in North and South Carolina. and market knowledge, marketBlalock is a multi-million doling savvy, effective negotiation lar producer and has received many top sales skills and a high-quality professional network awards in her years of experience. – all of which are hallmarks of how I work,” “I’ve weathered all kinds of ups and downs she said. Blalock adds that she uses many in our local real estate market. It’s been a marketing techniques, including social media tough few years. But I really believe we will be and print and online advertising strategies to seeing more and more people able to buy their get homes sold! Blalock said she has a simple first home or a new home in the coming year. formula for keeping her customers satisfied Things have stabilized and financing has gotten and being one of the top sellers in the area: better,” Blalock said. Putting clients first. When matchmaking clients with homes, “This means keeping myself accessible, beBlalock offers this advice to her clients: ing a good listener as well as a good communiMake a wish list of what you want in your cator, and responding quickly to client needs.” new home. Write it out so it’s clear what you’re If you or anyone you know is in the market looking for. for real estate...”Talk to Tonya!” Prioritize your wants and needs. Blalock is a Realtor with Century 21/The Sometimes you don’t find a home with EVERY- Combs Co. and can be reached at 252-813-1667.

SOLD 2912 Coleberry Trail Rocky Mount, NC 27804

SOLD

Tonya Blalock

Broker , ABR, GRI - Multi-Million Dollar Producer

Toll Free 800-849-8630 / Cell 252-813-1667 New Email Address: TonyaSellsRE@gmail.com

The Combs Company

401 Shady Circle Drive Rocky Mount, NC 27803

SOLD

1036 Niblick Drive Rocky Mount, NC 27804

1320 McDuffers Road Rocky Mount, NC 27804

642 Chimney Hill Way Rocky Mount, NC 27804

DAVENPORT AUTOPARK ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

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Pictured in front of newly-remodeled Buick-GMC facility, from left: Will Viverette, Neill Nelson, Steven Langley, Marjorie Savarese, Corey Powell, Charlene Hatfield and Graham Nelson. Right of Car: Nancy England, Sam Bass, David Farris, Mark Carter, Gene Langley and Nikkie Allen.

Committed to being your dealership for life 650 English Road Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.937.7500 www.davenportgm.com

avid Davenport originally founded Davenport Motor Company in 1929 as a PontiacOakland dealership in downtown Rocky Mount. Four locations, four generations and many changes later, Davenport Autopark is still family owned and operated but has expanded into two exclusive, state-of-the-art dealerships: The recently remodeled Davenport Buick-GMC and Davenport Honda; both are located on 12-acres at 600-650 English Road which was purchased in 1988. Neill Nelson, who is General Manager and grandson of David Davenport said, “Davenport has weathered a lot of storms over those many years and somehow we always came through.” The stock market crashed about 6 months after the business first opened. The second challenge was in WWII when they couldn’t get cars because auto manufacturers were busy making tanks. Used cars were how they made it through that period. The most recent hurdle occurred when breaking ground for the new Honda Dealership. “Everything was in place and then the economy plunged two months later,” Nelson said. Several members of the Davenport family play an active role in the daily operations of the business. Neill’s father Joe, at age 82, comes in every day. Neill’s Wife, Lisa, handles HR and Customer Relations. Neill’s son, Graham, is the Business Development/ Internet Sales Mamager and assists with their used vehicle Department. Graham said that, because of the internet, buyers can now obtain endless amounts of information, so today they are more educated when they come in. Customers are now reaching out to them through digital marketing, online ads and their website. It makes it very easy. “The days of spending weeks going from dealership to dealership are over,” Graham said. Due to the broad reach of the internet, they have customers from surrounding states. Graham said that they have even had someone fly in from Missouri for a car. Davenport’s commitment to customer satisfaction has resulted in the dealership receiving statewide

recognition and numerous awards, including being named ‘Best Automotive Dealership’ for the last four years by readers of the Rocky Mount Telegram. They have also been ranked among the top dealerships in the nation in sales and service by both Honda and GM customers. They were also voted ‘Family-Owned Business of the Year’ by the Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce. Other awards include the coveted ‘Time Magazine Quality Dealer Award’ for NC, GM Service Excellence Awards for Pontiac, Buick and GMC as well as Honda’s prestigious ‘President’s Award.’ In 2006, Davenport introduced its innovative ‘Dealership for life’ program, which gives customers a free lifetime warranty, free maintenance services, free towing, loaner cars and a Rewards Card, just to name a few perks. This program has been such a success with customers that Davenport is now ranked #1 in owner retention among all of its GM and Honda peer dealers. Both Neill and Graham have served on the boards of various organizations. The family feels very strongly about supporting the local community. One of the programs that they support is called ‘Community for Life’, through which a portion of the proceeds from every vehicle sold are re-invested back into the local non-profit community. The customer is able to choose where they money goes from a list of several charities. The Davenport family is committed to supporting local education. One program of which they are particularly proud is awarding a new automobile to the Nash/Rocky Mount School System’s Teach of the Year. They also donate a scholarship to a deserving Nash Community College student each year. Davenport also supports the local area United way with a new car as an incentive for people to contribute. Neill said “We want people to keep their money in the area and we want our money to stay in the area.”

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OLPH CATHOLIC SCHOOL ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

75 years of shaping the future, one child at a time 315 Hammond Street Rocky Mount, NC 27803 252.972.1971 www.olphrm.com

OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP CATHOLIC SCHOOL

rom the time that OLPH opened its doors as Rocky Mount’s only private school in 1939, many changes have taken place. Their goal for their 115 students from Pre-K to 8th grade is to stay progressive in the areas of technology and keeping curriculum current, while at the same time maintaining the traditional values and activities on which the school was founded. Principal Debbie Haggerty, pictured, who has been with the school for the past 34 years says, “OLPH is a faith-filled school. The teachers enjoy being able to share their faith and to pray with the students. The entire school meets together every morning in prayer, which we feel is a vital way to start the day off right.” The parents will often participate during that time. Haggerty said, “Since it’s opening, our school has been a vital part of the educational landscape of Rocky Mount, serving students of various races, creeds, national origins, and physical challenges.” The excellent reputation of OLPH in the community is widely known. Haggerty said, “We hear from other teachers after our students have graduated. They say that they

can tell who the OLPH students are. They say that that they are mannerly and respectful, which are values that we strive to instill here.” OLPH traditionally scores in the 80+ percentiles on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills and is currently accredited by the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges. OLPH is very active in the community. They recently held their annual Pennies for Pasta fundraising event which raised $2,000 for childhood leukemia. They have a food pantry with which the middle school kids help. Their Cold Hands Warm Hearts program is where they donated food to the Loaves & Fishes Pantry, and gave out hats, gloves and scarfs. Haggerty says, “Here at OLPH, we work together to create a professional, safe, secure, and encouraging environment where everyone feels appreciated, listened to, and respected. As a result, our graduates are responsible, resourceful, and are excellent role models for their peers.” Our Lady of Perpetual Help is located in Rocky Mount at 315 Hammond Street, just off of S. Franklin St. For more information, you can visit their website at www.olphrm. com and then click on school.

Don’t miss out on what Sunday’s Telegram has to offer! Every Sunday the Rocky Mount Telegram is filled with local stories you can’t find anywhere else. Plus, you’ll also find Parade magazine, Color Comics, more than two dozen local advertising circulars and on average more than $20 worth of coupons from national manufacturers.

The Sunday Rocky Mount Telegram… always worth looking into!

For convenient home delivery, call 252-446-5161

Page 27

UNIFIRST ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

UniFirst offers much more than uniforms 821 S Church Street Rocky Mount, NC 27803 252.977.1445 www.unifirst.com

ay the name UniFirst to anyone and the first thing that comes to mind for most people is uniforms. In fact, UniFirst is the 3rd largest uniform company in the world. There are seven locations in NC. “This branch currently services 1500 accounts and processes approximately 180,000 garments per week,” said Adam Gardner, Rocky Mount Branch Manager, pictured. The company likes to promote from within, Gardner said. In 2007 he started as a route person, became a supervisor, did sales for a little while and was finally promoted to Branch Manager in 2011. Since then, they finished highest in region for retention in 2012. In 2013 they were #1 in sales throughout NC. Part of their success is that they are resourceful with products. If they have an abundance of khaki pants and black is selling well, they will dye them black rather than have them sit unused. White linens which are stained with wine become black linens. “We even do dyeing for other companies,” Gardner said. The biggest unknown about UniFirst is that they offer much more than uniforms. They offer cleaning chemicals and supplies, gloves, trash bags, paper towels and toilet

paper as well as soap and dispensers. “I like to think of us as a Rolling Walmart,” Gardner said. “There’s not a business in Rocky Mount that we can’t do something for.” Community support is very important to the company. They support the Lupus Foundation and My Sister’s House. They are active members of the Chambers of Commerce in their service areas. The sales force participates in the Chamber’s After Hours Meet and Greet. “We have low turnover here,” Gardner said. Each Rep has their own route, which is like their own business within a business. Their goal is to make sure the customer is happy, and their motto is “Customers for life.” The service team regularly calls customers to make sure they are happy. They welcome suggestions from both the customers and staff. “My door is always open,” Gardner said. “They all know that they can come to me with anything and we’ll try our best to solve the problem.” One of the Route Sales Reps, Charlie Long, retired after 47 years. “Our staff and his customers were very sorry to see him leave.” Gardner’s philosophy is, “Take care of your people and your people will take care of the business.”

Uniforms and Services That Enhance Your Business Image! UniFirst is one of North America’s largest work wear and textile service companies. We rent, lease, and sell uniforms, protective clothing, custom corporate work wear, floor care, and other facility service products to all kinds of businesses!

PROGRAM OPTIONS - RENT • LEASE • BUY At UniFirst, we’re dedicated to providing managed uniform, work apparel, and Facility Service programs that deliver maximum value, enhanced business image, and bottom line time-savings. That’s why we offer three fully customizable program options to meet your specific needs.

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE NEEDS ANALYSIS!

252-977-1445

821 S. Church Street, Rocky Mount, NC

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EDGECOMBE COMMUNITY COLLEGE ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Serving Edgecombe and Nash counties since 1967 2009 West Wilson Street Tarboro, NC 27886 225 Tarboro Street Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.823.5166 www. edgecombe.edu

COMMUNITY COLLEGE

ince its inception, Edgecombe Community College has taken an active role in the training, educational, and cultural needs of the community. With two campuses, the college is convenient to all area residents. The original campus in Tarboro is situated in a more rural location and serves the surrounding small communities, whereas the Rocky Mount campus is located downtown. With more than 100 programs of study designed with an eye toward employer needs, the college’s primary focus is workforce development. “It’s all about student success,” said Dr. Deborah Lamm, president, pictured. The college tracks student progress and helps those who are at-risk of dropping out, whether their challenges are transportation, child care, or lack of preparation for college-level courses. Edgecombe’s mission is to enable students to complete their credential, whether it’s a certificate, one-year diploma, or two-year degree. Short-term certificate programs such as Nursing Assistant and Phlebotomy enable students to finish their training quickly and join the workforce. Later, they can return to school and continue their education to reach their long-term goals. Industry plays a critical role in the success of Edgecombe Community College. The college works hand-in-hand with local industries to help them with their training needs. Business and industry leaders sit

on the advisory boards of Edgecombe programs and provide valuable feedback that ensures that programs of study are relevant to industry needs. The N.C. Career Readiness Certificate (CRC) is a portable credential that certifies core employability skills. It confirms to employers across multiple industries and occupations that an individual possesses basic workplace skills. All Edgecombe graduates are required to take the CRC exams before they graduate. In 2013, Edgecombe Community College received the National Career Preparedness Award for its efforts to educate and train students to be successful in careers and the workplace. The college’s flagship programs are in the area of health sciences, with more than 20 different programs of study offered. Recognizing the need for advanced training in health sciences, the college is constructing a Biotechnology and Simulation Center on the Rocky Mount campus. Groundbreaking for the 45,000-square-foot facility and state-of-the-art simulation center is scheduled to be held later this year. The facility is slated for completion in 2015. Edgecombe Community College also provides cultural enrichment opportunities, such as the Edgecombe Performance Series, the annual Beach Music Festival, and special lectures and symposia held throughout the year.

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❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Got your card yet? The Telegram’s Reader Reward Card is a savings card that offers discounts from 20 popular Twin County businesses such as restaurants, retailers and services such as auto service, computer repair and carpet cleaning

The Reader Reward Card is available absolutely FREE to readers who subscribe and pre-pay for 12 months. You can receive the card plus additional special offers and privileges throughout the year, including some FREE offers. For details or to subscribe to the Rocky Mount Telegram and get your own Reader Reward Card, please call 252-446-5161 or visit www.rockymounttelegram.com/subscribe/readerreward.

Participating Businesses Include: • Bandy Heating & Air • Bounce-N-Around • Capello Hair • CoolGeeks • Chili’s • Curves • Domino’s Pizza

• Great American Cookies • Hammer Chiropractic • JV Nails • Moore 4UR Body • Osborne Jewelers • Pit Stop Shoppe • Postal Annex +

Rules for Reader Reward Card usage: 1. Present your card before the bill is totaled or purchase is made. 2. Benefits cannot be combined with any other promotion or discount. 3. Card may not be valid on holidays. Call first or check before ordering. 4. Card is for use by holder & immediate family only and is non-transferable. 5. Card valid only until expiration date shown. 6. Some restrictions apply.

• Rex Shoe Repair • Rocky Mount Bowling Center • Shell Rapid Lube • Star City Skate & Play • Taste of Paradise • Wilkins’ Carpet Cleaning

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EAST CAROLINA KITCHEN & BATH ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

tatistics show that bathrooms are the most dangerous room in your house. 70% of home accidents occur in the bathtub. In 1990, Michael Sasser, owner of East Carolina Kitchen and Bath, pictured, started doing fiberglass repair work in Tarboro. Since then, the business has expanded to cabinet re-facing and custom conversions of fiberglass, steel and cast iron tubs. Bathtub conversions consist of cutting out the side of an existing tub for easier access. This provides a lower cost alternative to replacing the tub and installing a new shower, and it can be done in one day so the customer can use it the next day rather than weeks needed for complete replacement. Also available is a special conversion for people who are wheelchair bound where they can transfer from their wheelchair directly to a seat in the shower. This helps people to become more independent at a fraction of the cost. They can install grab bars and a non-skid textured tub bottom as well. Add a hand-held shower and a shower chair and you have a very safe, comfortable shower at a fraction of the cost. Sasser has done over 50 custom conversions for The Fountains of Albemarle and several for Covenant Homes in Rocky Mount. Sometimes, according to the situation, The VA and insurance will partially cover the cost. Folks should check with their insurance. The color of porcelain and ceramic tile can be changed by using a durable coating which was developed for use on a vehicle which was left on the moon. They 1701 W. St. James Street also can change the color of the grout lines, which also seals it to Tarboro, NC, 27886 prevent mildew and make it easier 252.823.1233 to maintain. “I’m a designer, too, so I can help with the selection of colors, fixtures, etc. to best compliment the room,” says Sasser. In addition, they do kitchen cabinet re-facing and complete kitchen and bath remodeling. Sometimes you don’t want to or can’t afford to go all out. They can update your look to fit your budget. If the cabinets are in good shape, a cabinet re-facing will give you a new look at a fraction of the cost. Sasser’s philosophy is, “When I look at a job, I look at it as if it were my home and from the perspective of how I can update my room most economically and conveniently.”

Offering safety, economy,

convenience plus

East Carolina Tub Cutters converts your existing bathtub into a safe and accessible step-n shower in just over an hour. O UIF .FOUJP FUZ BG DPEF A4 JWF DF BOE SF PVS Z PGG F T I QVSD B

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Call Mike Sasser at 252-823-1233

GATEWAY CENTRE ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Page 31

At right, the Gateway Centre’s ballroom sits ready for the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce annual dinner.

Experienced staff ensures an excellent experience 651 N. Winstead Avenue Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.937.6888 www.gatewaycentrerockymount.com

eating more than 400 people with a full kitchen to cater meals, the Gateway Convention Centre in Rocky Mount is a popular venue for groups looking to hold catered meetings or events. Its space can be leased out for corporate meetings, seminars, conferences, dinners and events. The center has been used for large events such as the Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual meeting. Other customers include the Nash Health Care System, Draka Elevator Products, Cummins Rocky Mount Engine Plant and the Cheesecake Factory plant in Gold Rock. “We catered their event for 600plus people at Nash Community College,” said David Joyner, Gateway Centre Complex marketing director and event operations manager. A new customer is the Sandoz Pharmaceutical Plant in Wilson. “They hold large training workshops and meetings for 400 plus people, Joyner said. The center offers about 6,000 square feet of meeting space. It is part of the Gateway Centre Hotel Complex near the intersection of N.C. 64 and Interstate 95. In addition to the location, another advantage of the facility is the rooms at any of the four hotels within the complex can be used by event patrons. “It’s all one operation. The rooms provide both convenience and peace of mind,” said Joyner. The center has been increasing its off-site catering business, which can serve up to 2,000 people, with food prepared in the center’s kitchen. According to Joyner, customers can enjoy a “hassle-free center experience” if they opt to hold their event at the Gateway Centre, but they can also be confident in knowing that an off-site event can be customized to fit their budget. In addition to a tailored menu, they will provide tables, chairs, linens and all banquet supplies. “We cater to any type of meeting, from church services to lecture-style series or forums. But we also do events ranging from a birthday party to a wedding to a business dinner or cookout type of event,” Joyner said. “We don’t specialize in just doing lavish weddings

(or) certain types of business events. We literally in one day may have five to eight events because we are the only operation in the region that will do multiple events in day like that.” Joyner advises people to reserve in advance. “Far out helps,” he said. “Especially to lock in the date. But we do generally have space open for late additions and I’d say 50 percent of our events are book within a two-week window (of the event.”) The staff of the Gateway Centre is known for their experience, professionalism, and the pride they take in everything they do. Joyner related that during a recent event a man gave him, and his entire staff, the biggest compliment. “He basically said that we are more dedicated to service than any of our competitors, including the Raleigh Convention Center,” Joyner said, adding “our entire strategy as it pertains to catering events is to offer an experience that is unique and excellent. We want the guests to walk away feeling like they had an excellent experience that is specially catered to what they were looking for.” Besides Joyner, key leaders at the center include Catering coordinator Jacqueline Elder, kitchen manager Melvin Arrington, assistant banquet and events manager Willie Mason, director of sales Alana Napora and area general manager Kevin Famiglietta. The Gateway Centre is a member of the Tarboro, Wilson and Rocky Mount Chambers of Commerce. They are sponsors of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Nash & Edgecombe Counties. The catering office is located in the Doubletree by Hilton. They’re open weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. except for Thursday, when the hours are Noon to 8:00 p.m. These later hours were established for customer convenience. “Families for events such as wedding receptions and area human resources directors needed more flexibility,” Joyner noted. The office’s phone number is (252) 9376888. The center’s web site URL is www.gatewaycentrerockymount.com.

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ROCKY MOUNT TELEGRAM ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Rocky Mount Telegram office located on 1000 Hunter Hill Road.

Telegram looks to engage readers more 1000 Hunter Hill Road Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.446.5161 www.rockymounttelegram.com

here are ways newspapers like the Rocky Mount Telegram can become more relevant and instrumental in delivering the information their communities need. We have been focusing on such ways over the past several months, according to Publisher Mark Wilson. “We want to deliver more local news and more news in general,” Wilson said. Local news is the crux of the newspaper product, he said, regardless of the package in which it’s delivered. “Many young people may never use our print products,” Wilson said. “However, they do use digital devices and as they move on in the stages of their lives, they will need local news to educate themselves and their children on such things as health and education.” Wilson said the newspaper’s primary responsibility is reporting locally relevant news with the highest quality of journalism. How, when and where this information is consumed should be a personal decision made by each reader, and we offer those options to them. Currently, the Telegram is available in print and online formats as well as through an iPhone app. In the next several weeks, an android app will be made available, as well. Additionally, we have begun engaging our audience more using social media. We launched a Facebook page which today has nearly 4,000 “likes.” Another new technological feature being utilized by the Telegram is text alerts. These are the text messages available with our iPhone app and soon-to-come android app. With these, you can receive an alert to cue you in on local breaking news as it happens – before the story can be written or posted. If you who like to be among the first to know about an important trial, or the development of a major crime or fire or accident as it is happening, or other events of importance, this feature is for you. Of course, not everyone is impressed with change. We have some readers who only value the print prod-

uct – the same newspaper we have delivered to them in many cases for decades, and in some cases, for several generations to their families. We understand that and will continue to deliver you a quality newspaper. But we are in an age where news is becoming highly customized. Some of us want it delivered only via the Web and smart phones, some of us only use the print product. Some of us want it all. The fact is that the technology we have talked about here has grown our audience to its largest ever. We now have more than 140,000 people reading the Telegram in print or online each month. This is a huge audience we can’t reach in print alone, and it presents a huge opportunity for local businesses, as well. These products deliver terrific results for advertisers because of the expanded reach, the increased frequency and the level of reader engagement we offer. This is an exciting time at the Telegram. We’ve entered a new age in community journalism and we are working to make our coverage more compelling and more complete than it has ever been before. There will continue to be developments we share with you throughout 2014 and beyond. We hope you see each of these changes in a positive light – we’re working to bring you more news, in a more timely way, using all the technologies you might employ to access our coverage. And yet, despite the changes many things remain the same. We have chronicled the lives of the members and institutions of the Twin Counties for over a century, and that isn’t going to go away. The coverage in fact, we know, will continue to get much better. Last but not least, we will engage you, our readers more. Our plan is to conduct a very thorough readership survey in the next several weeks. You will help us to fine-tune our focus on information important to you. Our ultimate goal is to make the Telegram of tomorrow the most relevant, best read, and most engaging newspaper in this community’s history.

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❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

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Page 34

❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

MetRo MaiNteNaNCe, iNC.

1175 Jeffreys Road Rocky Mount, NC 252-977-2730 www.metro-maintenance.com

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? Metro Maintenance provides heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, and general repairs for owners of residential and commercial properties. We perform replacements and new equipment installation as well as repairs. 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? Metro Maintenance currently has eleven employees. We prefer not to identify one or two individuals as key employees. Each of our employees holds a key role in our organization and is very important. 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? From our beginning in the 1980s, we have grown to one of the most visible and respected service provider of our type in Nash and Edgecombe counties. We pride ourselves in offering the highest standards of integrity and delivering the best service possible. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? Our plans for the next several years includes continued growth and maintaining the same high customer service standards.

AWe-HoMe RepAiR & ConStRuCtion

3573 Macedonia Rd Spring Hope 252-478-7441 www.awehomerepair.net

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We are a local construction company with old-fashioned values. Awe, meaning to overwhelm, is the concept that the business was founded. 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? Owner John Lindsey felt the area needed a good hearted contractor that would stay true to the values and philosophy he was raised on. The company was born in 1996 based on the ‘one job’ concept theory, meaning that we stay on the job until it is completed. 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? We are a Licensed General Contractor through the state of North Carolina. We are also licensed in the state for Lead Based Paint Abatement. Restoration projects are another of our specialties 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? We will continue to treat every home as if it were our own as we know customer satisfaction keeps us in business. Our combined 75 years of experience allows us to meet the owner’s desire.

1914 Sunset Avenue 252-937-7600 www.mmaids1079@embarqmail.com

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? Residential house cleaning 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? 5 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? We received the U Can Award in 2002 for the Small Market Growth Leader of the Year. It is awarded to the new franchise that has the highest revenue during their first year in business. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? Our business plan is to keep the business growing by 50% every year.

Wayne’s ROOFing

seaMless AluMinuM GuTTeR 127 Dalewood Dr., Rocky Mount Office/Fax: 252.442.7700 Mobile: 252.903.5148 Toll Free: 888.442.6730

Wayne’s Roofing

seamless aluminum gutteR

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We are a family owned business serving the Rocky Mount and surrounding areas for over 30 years. We specialize in residential roofing. We also install commercial roofs. We install seamless aluminum gutters. 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? We employ 10 laborers that are very hard workers. Tina is the office manager and has been in the business over 20 years. 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? We are proud members of the BBB and Angie’s List. We have been voted best roofer on several occasions for the Reader’s Choice awards. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? We look forward to serving your roofing and gutter needs in the years ahead.

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❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

97 Auto

two Locations: 1357 N. Wesleyan Blvd. and 10962 Hwy 97 East Rocky Mount, NC 27804 Phone: 252-442-0902 Website uRL: www.:facebook.com/97Auto

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We offer quality used cars at reasonable prices and financing for EVERYONE! 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? We employ 11 with Chris, John, Jeff, and Randy being the key staffers. 3. What successes, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? We look at every sale as a major success because we know that people buy cars because they need them not want them. 4. What Business Plans do you have for the next three years? We would like to continue our steady growth and development over the coming years.

CECIL CAPPS REALTY 3670 SUNSET AVENUE Rocky Mount, NC 252-937-2055

ecil C Capps

REALTY CO. INC.

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We are a property management and rental company that has been in business since 1974 and still thriving everyday. We deal in apartments and homes for rent. 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? There are six employees including myself and everyone is a great asset to the company. 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? The success of my business has been partially because of the great team I have and the belief that success comes from enjoying what you do everyday. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? To continue to serve the community with all of their housing needs.

THE BaTH PlacE, llc 205 NE Main St 888-530-0591 www.thebathplace.com 1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We create handcrafted, spa quality, natural bath & body products using simple good for you ingredients. All of our products are made fresh onsite and in the open at our retail location in downtown Rocky Mount. Shea Butter, which is great for eczema and dry skin conditions is the key ingredient in much of what we produce. Our product line includes soaps, whipped creams, scrubs, candles, lip balms and more. 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? The Bath Place is owned and operated by Kimberly Thigpen and employs Kesha Phillips as Creative Assistant. 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? We received the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce 2013 Downtown Business Person of the Year Award. We have secured partnerships with major online 3rd Party retailers Overstock.com and Abesmarket.com and we are very close to announcing a partnership with an International Grocery Chain that specializes in Natural Foods and Products. We will celebrate 2 years in full time business in May of 2014. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? In the next 3 years we plan to launch a boutique wholesale program and continue our strategy to partner with major retail chains. Our hope is to create local small scale manufacturing jobs by greatly increasing wholesale demand for our product.

3769 Sunset Ave. and 105 Wayfarer Court, Rocky Mount (252) 443-0048 and (252) 977-6440 www.dentalcarecenterHA.com

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? Complete Dental Care For The Entire Family, Including: Zoom In Office Whitening, Six Month Smiles, Implants, Vizilite Oral Cancer Screening, Composite Fillings and Crowns and Bridges 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? We currently employ over 50 team members. Crystal Webb is our Director of Operations Donna Tyson is our Director of Human Resources and Will Robl is our Chief Human Resources Officer 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? Dr. Harrold has been in Dentistry over 40 years. He has successfully grown his business into a multiple locations in Rocky Mount. We actively participate in community events so we can better serve our patients and our community. Our doctors and members of our team currently hold memberships in the ADA, AADOM, NCDOM, ADAA and the ADHA. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? We are always looking for better ways to improve in all areas of our business.

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SiMply FRazieR Beauty SaloN

1141 Jeffreys Rd. Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252-443-3337

❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

J & J’s KitCHeN 1721 N. Wesleyan Blvd Rocky Mount, NC 252-446-6300

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We take care of all hair care needs. Specializing in Hair and scalp treatments, chemical services, color, cut, stying as well as offering $10 rollersets.

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We’re a restaurant that offers home made plate lunches, hamburgers, hot dogs & all kinds of biscuits. We have a huge catering business. “We’ll cater anything you want”

2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? Currently 7 stylists: Cassandra Frazier, Tia High, Marion Dortch, Erica Cooper, Janet Harfield, Sorethia Jones, and Courtnee Green. And manager Melissa Lynch.

2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? We have 6 employee’s that are all equally important in making J & J’s a success.

3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? I feel bless to have what I have. It has not always been easy. But with Gods help I have jumped many hurtles. I am bless to work with people where we get along as a family and our customers are family. I’m living my dream. I’m a stylist and an educator. I teach nail class at Edgecombe Community College and I’m an educator for Dudley Products. I haven’t met every milestone yet but I am still striving for them.

3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? We’re proud off all of our awards, they range from Best Hamburger, Hot Dog & Our catering. J&J’s will be celebrating 28 Years In Business on March 4th 2014.

4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? To open up Simply Frazier #2.

MOBILEVILLE USA, INC. 1640 N Wesleyan Blvd. Rocky Mount, NC 27804 Phone: 252-210-3443 Website: WWW.MOBILEVILLEUSA.COM

4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? To continue to provide good quality service to the community and to keep our customer’s coming back!

FIRST CAROLINA REALTY 3151 Zebulon Road Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252-985-2321 Website: www.firstcarolinarealty.com

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We are a Mobile Home Parts Store that also offers repairs, remodeling, insurance claim repairs, roofing, flooring and more.

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We provide real estate services to home buyers, sellers, renters and real estate investors.

2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? We have 4 employees. Our key staff members are Travis and Vickie Cutchin.

2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? We have four employees that are all valuable to the company.

3. What successes, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? I would say our biggest success would be the fact that we have been open 2 years and our business has grown by leaps an bounds.

3. What successes, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? We have been in business for 15 years and still going strong!

4. What Business Plans do you have for the next three years? Our business plans for the next 3 years are to add Mobile Home and RV sales to our organization and also add one more parts store location locally.

4. What Business Plans do you have for the next three years? We look to continue serving property owners with the best property management available in the greater Rocky Mount area.

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❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Gus H. Tulloss INsuRaNCe

RiveRSide

Rocky Mount, NC 252-937-6913 www.tullossinsurancenc.com gust@suddenlink.net

99 Success Court Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252 442 3636

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? Provide personal, business, health, life, property & casualty insurance as well as general liability and workmen’s compensation.

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? Riverside Veterinary Hospital provides comprehensive general small animal medical and surgical care plus exotic and avian care. Our ancillary services include grooming, boarding, doggie daycare, and retail product sales.

2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? Administrative Assistant Becky Wall & myself. 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? Current Board member of the NC Department of Transportation, former Board Member of the UNC Board of Governors, Past President of the NC Jaycees, 2005 recipient of The Boy Scouts of America’s Distinguished Citizen Award. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? Continue to expand my medicare and affordable health care insurance business as well as my life insurance business.

SHelley Milburn inSurance agency nationWiDe 2455 Hurt Drive 252-937-1888 www.getrockymountinsurance.com

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? We offer a full range of insurance products to residents in NC and VA including but not limited to: auto, home, mobile home, renters, life, commercial, motorcycle, recreational vehicle, and boat. 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? Sabrina Williams and Shelley Milburn are co-owners of the agency. 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? We were voted Best Insurance Agency in Rocky Mount for three years in a row. Sabrina Williams has also won Best Insurance Agent in Rocky Mount multiple times. We have been in business nine years. We are also founders of Promoting Animal Welfare in NC, which helps provide spay/neuter services to animals in our community. We help animals at Nash County Animal Shelter find homes or rescue. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? We hope to add additional locations, so we can provide employment to more residents in our community.

veteRiNaRy HoSpital

2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? Riverside has 5 veterinarians and 30 support team members including client service representatives, technicians and assistants, groomers, animal caretakers, and administrative staff. 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? Riverside received the Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Month in November 2009. Riverside was named Business Partner of the Year by the Nash Rocky Mount Public Schools in 2012. We received our second American Animal Hospital Association accreditation in April 2013. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? Riverside is continually expanding and updating veterinary services to better serve our clients and their pets. The Riverside team looks forward to expanding more of our community outreach programs.

HAIR TRENDS SALON 1059 N. Winstead Ave. Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252-442-4247

1. What’s a general overview of what you do? 1. Hair Trends’ mission is to help people look and feel more attractive, confident, and successful in a relaxed and friendly environment. 2. How many employees do you have; who are your key staffers? We have seven stylists: Walter Ward, Wendy Hill, Denise Jordan, Tali Bulluck, Debbie Merritt, Kim Lewis, and Michelle Warren. Together, their combined experience is over 150 years. Hair Trends has been a successful hair salon in Rocky Mount for eighteen years. 3. What success, milestones or awards are you especially proud of? Hair Trends looks forward with enthusiasm to our continual growth. Our stylists are committed to advancing through constant education in order to serve people of all ages. 4. What business plans do you have for the next three years? We strive to stay current and relevant in an ever changing industry. We thank all our clients for allowing us to serve them, and we invite you to join us for the Hair Trends experience.

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❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Don’t Miss All The Other Special Sections Coming Your Way In 2014! March

Business Card Directory is referred to repeatedly throughout the year. It’s a reference tool for both area residents and other businesses. Deadline: Friday, March 7 Publication date: Sunday, March 23 Carolina Charm is our quarterly magazine targeting the Twin Counties’ women who want to know the latest in fashion, fitness, family and more. Deadline: Tuesday, March 11 Publication date: Friday, March 28

April

Spring/Summer Forever Young - Designed for our seasoned readers 50 and over. Reach this audience in the prime of their lives. Deadline: Tuesday, April 8 Publication date: Wednesday, April 23 Jobs & Careers - This special edition connects employers with prospective workers. Published in conjunction with our series of job workshops conducted through Express Personnel. Deadline: Friday, April 4 Publication date: Sunday, April 20

May

Shop Local lets us partner with the Rocky Mount Area Chamber of Commerce to produce this magazine stressing to readers the importance to support local businesses. Deadline: Friday, April 25 Publication date: Thursday, May 8 Carolina Charm - Our summer issue of Charm is published about three weeks before our big Charm Night Out event and is the perfect primer to get you ready. Deadline: Tuesday, May 13 Publication date: Friday, May 30

June

Medical Directory provides readers with an all-inclusive listing of virtually every medical provider in the Twin Counties. Deadline: Tuesday, June 10 Publication date: Saturday, June 28

July

School Year provides area

parents and students with all the information they need to get the new school year off to a great start. Deadline: Tuesday, July 15 Publication date: Sunday, July 27

August

Fall/Winter Forever Young is targeted to local residents over the age of 50 with financial and health tips, local features and more. Deadline: Tuesday, August 5 Publication date: Wednesday, August 20 Carolina Charm - Our Fall installment of this quarterly magazine women who want to know the latest in fashion, fitness, family and more. Deadline: Tuesday, August 12 Publication date: Friday, August 29

September

Readers’ Choice - Hundreds of readers cast their ballots every year in this popular contest that recognizes the top people and places throughout the Twin Counties. Deadline: Friday, September 12 Publication date: Saturday, September 27

October

Carolina Charm - The holiday issue of this quarterly magazine targeting Twin County women will provide ideas and more leading up to Christmas shopping season. Deadline: Tuesday, November 4 Publication date: Friday, November 21 Letters to Santa - We receive dozens of letters each year from local children which we publish in this muchanticipated annual section. Deadline: Friday, November 7 Publication date: Thursday, November 27 Shop Local Gift Guide - Included in our massive Thanksgiving edition, this gift guide is a must read, and a must run, advertising vehicle. Deadline: Friday, November 14 Publication date: Thursday, November 27

December

Last-minute Gift Guide - Shoppers are running out of time, but you can help with an ad in this supplement that will include holiday entertaining tips and more. Deadline: Tuesday, December 2 Publication date: Sunday,

Living Here - Perhaps our largest and most comprehensive special edition of the year, this residents’ guide is a must-keep for readers. Deadline: Friday, October 3 Publication date: Saturday, October 25

November

Holiday Recipe Guide features readers submitting recipes to qualify for our “cookoff.” Then, all recipes and the cookoff results are published in this popular keepsake booklet. Deadline: Friday, October 31 Publication date: Sunday, November 16

For advertising information, call 252-407-9922

OSBORNE JEWELERS ❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

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Pictured, from left front, Robbin Sisak, Dee Dee Smith, Wayne Osborne and Gene Osborne.

Offering Beauty and Originality to Rocky Mount Shoppers 3659 Sunset Avenue Rocky Mount, NC 27804 252.443.1985 Visit us on Facebook

sk Dee Dee Smith, Manager of Osborne Jewelers what sets them apart from other jewelers in the area, and she will tell you that “if you purchase a piece of jewelry from us, you will never see it on anyone else anywhere else.” That’s because they never carry 2 of any one item. Because Osborne Jewelers can melt metal and perform laser welding, they have the capabilities of designing and manufacturing a completely new piece from old pieces. This capability also adds uniqueness to the business. People often bring in pieces which they have inherited and have originally been made by Gene. They want to have something else added to it in order to keep the integrity of the way it was first designed by their loved one, but add their own personal touch. At times, people have brought in their parent’s wedding bands when they passed away. They can melt them down and make a completely new custom setting according to the customer’s desire. “We can make pretty much anything the customer can envision,” Smith said. They have customers come back from all over the US to shop with them. After having been in business for almost 34 years, they have been in business long enough for them to see three generations carry on their family tradition of shopping at Osborne Jewelers. Osborne Jewelers does on-site jewelry and watch repair, diamond setting, custom jewelry designing and manufacturing, pearl stringing, computerized engraving, laser welding, appraisals and much more. If you bring your piece in, they will do a complimentary check for loose stones or damage and they will clean it whether you bought it there or not. Doing all of the work on-site allows them to return your piece to you quickly. Osborne Jewelers offers a high quality selection of diamond jewelry, colored gem jewelry, white and yellow gold, platinum and silver jewelry, pearls and watches. Whatever your taste and budget, they have

a beautiful gift for that someone special in your life. They also carry a large selection of Tervis tumblers, watch bands and gift items for weddings, births, anniversaries, retirements or any other special occasion. Gene Osborne has worked in and around jewelry as long as he can remember. His father owned Osborne Jewelers of Daytona Beach, Florida, where he learned the business from an early age. Gene is a graduate of the University of Illinois with a degree in Microprecision and the Texas Jewelry Institute with a Bench Jeweler’s degree. Gene is a certified watch maker, which is rare these days. Gene opened the Rocky Mount store in the Westridge Shopping Center in 1980. Several years ago, Gene hired his brother, Wayne, who has learned the art of jewelry repair under Gene’s guidance. Smith joined the business in 2009. She has extensive experience in sales and marketing. She is currently enrolled at the Gemology Institute of America, focusing on management courses. She also helps with grading stones and with appraisals. Robbin Sisak, Osborne’s newest jeweler, brings with her many years of craftsmanship and related expertise. Gene is a member of Jewelers of America. They are members of the Rocky Mount and Nashville Chambers of Commerce. Gene is a firm believer in supporting the community which supports their business. The homeless shelter and soup kitchen, Edgecombe County Hospital, Pregnancy Care Center, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Wounded Warriors and Animal Crackers, which is a spay and neuter program are just a few of the local charities which they support. Osborne Jewelers is open Monday through Friday 10-6, Saturday from 10-2 and they will open by appointment on Sunday. “Our customers are the reason for 34 years of success,” Gene says. His philosophy of doing business is simple; “Take care of your customers.”

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❱ 2014 PROFILES OF SUCCESS

Make her ex-boyfriend hate you even more!

Osborne Jewelers — Gene Osborne, Sole Proprietor — Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm • Sat 10am -2pm • 3659 Sunset Ave • Westridge Shopping Center • 443-1985

Serving Eastern NC for Over 34 Years