In honor of Business Development Week, Pike County Chamber of Commerce recognized the risk-takers and staples of Pike County – the new businesses and those over 50 years old.
“Today, we celebrated the heroes – some of them unsung – of our community,” said Kathleen Sauer, president of Pike County Chamber of Commerce.
Wednesday morning’s Business Development Week breakfast was the second one the chamber has held. Sauer said it was important to recognize those who have done so much for the growth and development of Pike County.
“The chamber is in business for business. We recognized those businesses that have given back to the community in so many ways,” she said.
In addition to building an income that is spent primarily in Pike County, Sauer said the businesses contributed by employee residents and by contributing tax revenue.
“They are the foundations of this community,” she said.
At its first breakfast, Chamber recognized businesses that had been around for 100 years or more. This year, businesses more than 50 years old were honored. The list included Adam’s Glass Studio; Byrd Drug Company; Calhoun, Faulk, Curtis and Faircloth; Cervera, Ralph, Reeves, Baker and Hastings; Gibson and Carden; Haisten, Shipman, and Wiggens; Horn Beverage; Ingram’s Curb Market; Lawrence Hardware; Peacock Timber; Sanders Lead Company; Sanders Trucking Company; Synco Drug; Wallace Pump and Supply Company; WTBF; Whaley Construction Company; and Wise Office Supply.
“Just think what it took to last as long as these businesses have,” said Sauer. “That kind of success required forward planning, business acumen, commitment and a true understanding of their market.”
Chamber recognized 14 new businesses:  Ambassador Cleaning Company; America’s Car-Mart; Aposha Cafe and Hooka Lounge; BedZZZ Express; Betsy Baker Small Business Marketing and Social Media Services; Dolce; Lena Ellen Boutique; Pickin’ and Grinin’ Antiques and Variety Store; Rustic Roots; Taco Del Mar; The Dirty Pearl Oyster Pub and Grill; The Emporium; Trojan Donuts; and Troy Treasures.
“These were the risk-takers,” Sauer said. “But, more than that, these businesses saw the merits of Pike County and made a commitment to this community’s success.”