APEX CHAMBER RELEASES MyChamberApp
APEX, N.C. (June 17, 2013)—Locating members of the Apex Chamber of Commerce is now as easy as pushing a button on your Smartphone, thanks to a new app launched by the Apex Chamber. The Chamber has launched its new MyChamberApp, a Smartphone application used to promote member businesses to other members and the community at large. The application is a free download that gives users access to business locations, listings, and contact information on the go. The application is another added-value to Chamber membership for local businesses, providing additional visibility to generate more business. Members will benefit from potential customers easily accessing their listing, and the general public will be able to shop local and shop Chamber member businesses in good standing through this application.
To download the app, a user simply searches for “myChamberApp” on their Smartphone, downloads the free app, then sets “Apex Chamber of Commerce” as the default chamber.
“The value of membership with the Apex Chamber just increased 100%,” said Paul Levering, Board Member and Membership Committee Chair of the Apex Chamber of Commerce, “This mobile app puts our members’ business information in the palm of customers’ hands when they need it—when they are out and about, ready to buy.”
“The versatility of this app means that anyone looking for goods and services from members of the Apex Chamber of Commerce can easily find the closest business,” said Graham Wilson, Executive Director of the Apex Chamber of Commerce. “It is going to be a valuable tool for anyone who either lives in Apex or does business here.”
In addition to business locations and listings, Chamber members can utilize the application to run specials and hot deals, post events, and keep informed of Chamber happenings.
Apex Chamber President Dave Cozzarelli said, “I'm thankful to Paul Levering and all the volunteer members of the Membership Committee for working so hard to add value to our members. This new app will drive more business into our members’ doors, especially if they take to time to provide ‘Hot Deals’ which is part of the application's capability.
About the Apex Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Apex Chamber of Commerce is to advocate for the business community and promote a vibrant and engaged membership.
Founded in 1958, the Chamber has an engaged operating group, motivated volunteers and a dedicated professional staff poised to implement progressive programs that aid in the profitability of its members, build a better economic community, develop future leaders and enhance small business development and growth.
Located in the historic Apex Depot (built in 1914 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places), the Apex Chamber of Commerce has been serving the business community and citizens of Apex, North Carolina for half a century.
To learn more about the Chamber and its initiatives call 919.362.6456 or visit www.apexchamber.com.
June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month
June 6, 2013
With Gov. Pat McCrory’s declaration of June as Elder Abuse Awareness Month in North Carolina and World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, it is important to raise awareness within the local community in order to make an impact not only in the state but also the nation.
“While people may recognize signs of physical abuse, it is often mental and financial abuse that occurs and goes undetected,” says Amy Natt, a certified geriatric care manager and owner of Aging Outreach Services, a full-service elder care firm with offices in Southern Pines and Cary.
The latest U. S. Census statistics show approximately 14 million U.S. adults age 65 and older and 19 million U.S adults aged 18 to 64 have a disability, which increases their susceptibility to abuse. Elder abuse and neglect occurs when a family member, caregiver or individual trusted by the elder, intentionally creates risk or does harm to that elder.
With the more than 10,000 baby boomers turning age 65 everyday, this group is the largest growing segment of the population making the need to combat elder abuse and raise awareness even greater. By 2050, U.S. Census data predicts there will be more than 19 million age 85 or older.
With a growing population of elders, it is often impossible to have exact numbers of elder abuse reports because many go unreported; however, the latest studies have revealed that females elders are more likely to be abused than their male counterparts and that the older the elders are, the more likely they are to be abused. Research has also shown that those with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease are at a greater risk of being abused. Older adults may not report the abuse because of fear of retaliation or because they are embarrassed, or because they lack the physical or cognitive abilities to do so.
The impact of elder abuse impacts not only the elder with additional medical costs or personal financial losses but also increased expenditures by county, state and federal entitlement programs.
“An alarming number of scams now target older adults with false claims and promises, hoping to tap their financial resources,” says Natt. “Sadly, we have seen many cases of abuse that occur within a family. A lack of resources, caregiver stress and fractured relationships can contribute to this as well as a history of past abuse.”
With raised awareness through education and initiatives like Elder Abuse Awareness Month, elders can be safer in their communities.
“Abuse occurs in many forms, and as a society, we need to have an awareness and become advocates for our elder population,” says Natt. “After all, we are all aging and someday, it may be you who needs a voice.”
About Aging Outreach Services:
Aging Outreach Services (AOS) is full-service elder care firm serving south central North Carolina with offices in Southern Pines and Cary. Through AOS Care Management, professional and certified geriatric care managers help clients navigate all the aspects of aging. Through AOS’ accredited caregiver registries, Moore Registry and Connected Care-Cary, clients can choose pre-qualified and pre-screened caregivers for home care services from two to 24 hours per day. For more information, call 910-692-0683, 919-535-8713 or visit www.agingoutreachservices.com.
CHAMBER MOVES BUSINESS EXPO TO CARY
by Angela Bush
CARY— The 2013 Apex Chamber Business Expo promised to be far from typical. This year the event was held at Prestonwood Country Club, using the convenient location to draw in visitors from both Apex and Cary.
The Chamber adopted an innovative, open-plan layout for the grand ballroom that encouraged visitors to move freely about the space and linger comfortably at more than 50 exhibitor booths representing the variety of industries that Apex has to offer.
Exhibitors benefited from this inviting layout by enjoying more quality face time with potential clients, making it a win-win. Melissa Van of All About Benefiting Seniors said that often at expos businesses have to draw people into their booth, but not this year.
“I had many attendees seek me and my services out,” said Van. “By the end of the event I had landed six coffee or lunch dates for the following week. I left the event with the realization that there is plenty of synergy between the business people in our area.”
In addition to showcasing products and services, the Expo was designed to have other benefits to exhibitors and attendees, including a networking breakfast focused on business to business connections as well as an educational workshop on leadership in the workplace given by Dr. Jonathan Cordell, President Optimum Performance Business Consulting.
The sell-out crowd is a sign that business is still booming in the area and Chamber member businesses continue to invest in their marketing strategies.
“What I’ve noticed is that my clients are starting to get creative,” said Olivia Scott, co-owner of Promotional Partners, a marketing and promotional product firm located in Apex. “Instead of having a separate budget for employee recognition and another for company branding, they are mixing it up.”
CONGRESSMAN HOLDING VISITS APEX AT CHAMBER EVENT
by Angela Bush
The Apex Chamber of Commerce recently welcomed U.S. Rep. George Holding to its annual Wake Up Apex event held at the Halle Cultural Arts Center.
The breakfast and town hall session, sponsored by L.G. Jordan Oil Company, was attended by town officials, Apex Chamber Board of Directors and membership for the opportunity to speak face to face with the freshman representative.
After hearing Holding’s priorities for his first term, citizens and business owners spoke with Holding about how upcoming legislation and policy would affect their business as well as the path forward for positive change in Washington.
Holding fielded questions on a variety of topics such as healthcare, tax reform, foreign policy, and the democratic approach of the freshman class of representatives and how this could improve Washington.
“We are excited and proud to have had Congressman Holding in Apex,” said Mayor Keith Weatherly. “His insight, enthusiasm, knowledge of the law and willingness to create changes in Washington is refreshing. It is clear he plans to take a rational approach toward solving the myriad of problems in our country.”
Following the program, Holding joined Weatherly, Town Manager Bruce Radford and Apex Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Graham Wilson on a tour of Apex to view its recent progress and discuss future goals.
“It is not every day your US Congressman comes to town,” said Radford, “Representative Holding pledged to assist the Town of Apex in any way he can. We will take him up on that offer if and when we have needs from Washington.”
Promotional Partners, Inc.
101 East Chatham Street
Apex NC 27502
Apex Company Provides Education Related to Creating Powerful Brand Identity
Promotional Partners, Inc owner Olivia Scott CAS-certified advertising specialist, was interviewed recently by staff writer, Jennifer Vishnevsky BSAI writer for international trade publication Advantage Magazine an ASI- Advertising Specialty Institute publication. The June 2013 edition focuses on promotional marketing education for consultants within this large internal industry around the topic of building brands. Vishnevsky’s article titled “Create A Powerful Brand Identity” features 4 distributors who provide their own insights and expertise for building strong brand identity, including local Apex HUB company Promotional Partners . Citing strong recognition of major brands icons such as Coca- Cola and Face book Vishnevsky probes for answers with her industry experts to the question of how to achieve a “powerhouse” brand. She asks distributors for their knowledge of brand development and promotional advertising to address the growth and awareness of a companies’ brand. The feedback from her panel of experts underscores the value of the brand relationship between the promotional providers, aka the distributor, to their client base to create successful marketing campaigns.
Scott speaks to the crafting of their 2012 re-branding efforts for Promotional Partners, Inc. as an indicator for how to overcome common challenges in selecting new logo designs. After completing year 5 of business it was time to provide a brand makeover for their own company. Scott shared strategies for how they developed a logo design adaptable to any product or campaign by capitalizing on their knowledge of imprinting while working with the constraints of a long company name. Besides changing their logo to a more contemporary design that offered flexibility, Promotional Partners launched their new website during the same period. By using a unique promotional direct mail package as an introduction to their new brand identity they were able to provide their own client base with a personal case study for brand introduction.
Brand education is a key distinguisher for Scott’s company. Through collaboration with clients, Scott conveys that properly applied, promotional products amplify one’s message. “It really helps when they (client) understand that their can be a reason and a purpose behind the products selected”. Scott also addresses the importance of developing new brand guides with the designer and a promotional consultant working as a team commenting that “ the promotional consultant is aware of brand imprint challenges that often a graphic designer can not foresee; presenting challenges for the clients in the future when they are ready to order products with their new branding”. She also encourages her own clients that are re-branding to consider the impact of their internal brand image; Scott notes “walking into a business that is rich with brand images on the walls, floors, conference room, employee apparel and personal desk spaces creates a solid reflection of that company to the visitor reinforcing their brand awareness. “So often I walk into a new business relationship and find that I could be sitting in any business office space because facility and employee branding has taken a back seat.”
Scott who is also a board member with the Apex Chamber of Commerce was interviewed by staff writer Aliana Ramos for the Southwest Wake News in response to the May Apex Chamber Expo. When asked to respond to how companies are using branding more effectively in our current economic climate, Scott responds “What I’ve noticed is that my clients are starting to get creative,” she said. “Instead of having a separate budget for employee recognition and another for company branding, they are mixing it up (allowing their traditional marketing budgets to also incorporate employee recognition).” Companies used to buy awards to recognize good employees, she said. Now some of them are coming to Scott to buy duffel bags, hats, shirts and other items that feature their company logo as a way to say “thank you” to employees (while providing brand identity in the work week and their leisure time).”
Peter Kylne, a Raleigh SCORE counselor with over 20 years of business management experience was quoted in the June 4 News & Observer article “A Vendor Can Sink You Or Save You” as saying, “Obviously pricing is important, but then you have got issues of delivery and availability if products, quality of product”. Trade publications such as Advantages and industry affiliations such as ASI and PPAI, who are designed for ad specialty industry, promote the advantages of a distributor relationship as a key indicator to the successful outcome of promotional advertising. When asked about the reason Scott’s company is part of ASI and PPAI she replies, “Our industry promotes a rich environment of product education and trust in the purchase of safety compliant products for a distributor’s clients everyday. Distributors are able to access stock prior to orders, confirm shipping costs and delivery options prior to ordering as well as working out critical imprinting issues before receiving the printed pieces for distribution: achieving a place where were ideas get results”.
For more information contact, Olivia Scott- President/owner
Media Contact:
Glenn Gillen, APR
(919) 674-6020 x146
S&A Cherokee Wins Best in Show Bronze InSpire Award
Agency Recognized with Awards in Seven Categories
Cary, N.C., May 2, 2013 – S&A Cherokee, a full-service communications company, took home the Best in Show Bronze InSpire Award at the InSpire Awards Banquet held May 1 at the Morehead Planetarium in Chapel Hill. The firm’s entry “Cirque du Soleil’s Dralion Returns to Raleigh” received the top designation after receiving a perfect score from judges.
Sponsored by the North Carolina Chapter of Public Relations Society of America (NCPRSA), the InSpire Awards honor the region’s best efforts in public relations and communications. Bronze InSpire Awards recognize tactics or components of campaigns, while Silver InSpire Awards recognize entire campaigns.
The Best in Show Bronze InSpire Award capped off an eventful night for S&A Cherokee, which also received one Honorable Mention, six Awards of Excellence, and five Best in Category designations. This is the fifth straight year S&A Cherokee has won multiple InSpire awards.
For 2013, S&A Cherokee won in the following categories:
Media Relations – Bronze Award of Excellence, Best in Category, and Best in Show for “Cirque du Soleil’s Dralion Returns to Raleigh”
Video News Releases/Satellite Media Tours/Internal/External Video Programs – Bronze Honorable Mention for “Town of Cary Community Investment Bonds Video”
Public Service Announcements (PSAs) Television, Radio, Print – Bronze Award of Excellence and Best in Category for “Town of Cary Community Investment Bonds PSA”
Research and Evaluation – Bronze Award of Excellence and Best in Category for “University Dining – Red, White and U Dining Satisfaction Surveys”
Events and Observances – Silver Award of Excellence and Best in Category for “Athleta Grand Opening at Streets at Southpoint”
Public Affairs/Public Service – Silver Award of Excellence for “Community Investment Bonds Public Information Campaign” (joint submission with the Town of Cary)
Integrated Communications – Silver Award of Excellence and Best in Category for “Band Together NC Promotion and Branding”
“The Triangle is a very competitive market for public relations and communications services, which makes it especially meaningful to S&A Cherokee to have received awards in so many different categories,” said Chuck Norman, APR, owner/principal. “To be recognized for media relations, video projects, research, event planning, public information campaigns and branding speaks to the excellence and diversity of skills of our staff.”
For more information on S&A Cherokee, please call (919) 674-6020 or visit www.sacherokee.com. Follow @sacherokee on Twitter.
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About S&A Cherokee
Delivering intelligent communications, S&A Cherokee is a full-service communications company providing public relations, advertising, marketing, event planning and custom publishing services. In 2009, S&A Cherokee was named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing private companies in America. Originally founded as Smith & Associates in 1982, the company is based in Cary, N.C. In addition to its consulting and event planning services, S&A Cherokee publishes national and regional magazines such as Auto Remarketing, SubPrime Auto Finance News and Cary Magazine, as well as customized client publications. For more information, visit www.sacherokee.com or call (919) 674-6020.
Prime Mortgage Lending, Inc.
320 N. Salem Street, Suite 300
Apex, NC 27502
Contact: Matt Mathosian
Phone: (919) 249-4139
Cell: (561) 235-6980
Email: MMathosian@goprime.com
April 2, 2013
For Immediate Release
Prime Mortgage Lending Opens New Branch in LINCOLNTON, NC
(Apex, NC) April 2, 2013 – Prime Mortgage Lending, Inc. is pleased to announce a new office is opening in Lincolnton, North Carolina. Prime Mortgage Lending is licensed in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and Montana. The new branch will mark the 4th location in North Carolina and will increase the Prime Mortgage footprint to the Piedmont region. The Lincolnton office expands services to Lincoln, Gaston, Catawba, Cleveland, Mecklenburg and surrounding counties in North Carolina.
The new branch offers two highly experienced loan officers skilled at pairing the right mortgage for the client based on their personal circumstances. As a trusted lender, Prime Mortgage Lending has provided a wide range of mortgage options to clients with professionalism and integrity for more than a decade.
According to John Rodgers, president and owner of Prime Mortgage Lending, “The Piedmont area is a new market for us. With its proximity to the Charlotte metro area, we are eager to expand our company and offer superior service and customer support to even more clients with this new branch.”
The Lincolnton branch will be managed by Traci Dellinger, who brings more than
15 years of mortgage experience to the table and Shelli Jenkins, a loan officer with 11 years of experience in the industry. Dellinger and Jenkins are natives of the Lincolnton area and are also sisters. Jan Hoyle, who serves as an administrative assistant, is their mother. All three women were formerly with American Family Mortgage founded in 2006 in Lincolnton, NC.
“We are truly a family business and are thrilled to have the support of a larger, established lender, with the same values,” says Dellinger. With Prime Mortgage Lending’s in-house underwriting and closing procedures, we can maintain our high standards as well as keep as much of the remaining processes local.”
Lincolnton, North Carolina is a small town in the Charlotte metropolitan area with a population of approximately 11,000 and growing. Established in 1785, Lincolnton, like Apex, NC has numerous historic landmarks including a thriving historic downtown district.
About Prime Mortgage Lending
Prime Mortgage Lending, Inc. is a premier lending institution and was founded in 2001 by John Rodgers. Today, Prime Mortgage employs more than 32 people, across the southeast and prides itself on providing high quality financial services to the public.
Based in Apex, North Carolina, Prime Mortgage Lending is owned by President John Rodgers and operated by CEO Matthew Mathosian.
Prime Mortgage offers loan programs that include: purchase, refinance, debt consolidation, home equity loans, second mortgages, and personalized home improvement loans tailored to the buyer’s unique situation. For more information, visit www.goprime.com
Media Contact:
Brenda Steen
Steen + Associates
Communication Strategies
(919) 632-4713
Local Company is highlighted in international and local publications
Promotional Partners was recently featured in international publication Advantages Magazine. In the March publication editor Kathy Huston interviewed owner Olivia Scott for strategies other industry distributor would find beneficial for addressing sales challenges. Advantages is a trade publication for the ad specialty industry via ASI, Advertising Specialty International, dedicated to providing relevant education to ASI members that will grow their company. ASI is an membership organization with an over 50 year history providing research, publications, marketing tools and connecting suppliers and distributors in the ad specialty industry. As part of a monthly feature Advantages seeks out stories for how the distributor relationship is helping clients solve problems with strong relationships. Promotional Partners story underscores the importance of strong supplier-distributor relationships to solve challenges; in this case challenges created from simple human error. Distributors within the ad specialty industry are challenged by internet sales, yet those transactions do not have the connection and accountability developed in business relationships, as Editor Kathy seeks to provide strategies to the membership to help grow their business. Read the article with this link:
http://advantages-digital.com/publication/?i=147400&p=96
Additionally, local Independent business are adapting to the marketplace, sharing space with larger “big box” choices. In the case of ad specialty advertising, Promotional Partners, Inc. offers benefits and services that are not associated with internet sales providers. In seeking to capture the pulse of the local business community the Apex Chamber of Commerce generates an annual member directory to connect local business with the host of resources offered by Apex Chamber members. The 2013 publication focuses on how local independent businesses are driving the economy in their niche. Promotional Partners, an ad specialty business located in historic downtown Apex was featured in the publication. The dedication to community and the commitment to excellence in their industry have contributed to their growth. Owner Olivia Scott is Apex only certified advertising specialist (CAS) and when asked about her company she replied
“Our knowledgeable and experienced marketing team helps focus client objectives on strategic product selections that showcase their message effectively, which leverages their brand to a specific target audience”.
Apex is the third largest municipality in the triangle. A vibrant business community is essential to a strong economy. When asked about the importance of relationships and the role of small business in Apex, Immediate Past President of the Apex Chamber Jeff Hastings had these remarks: “In a small town like Apex, small businesses are at the heart of the community. Through involvement with the Chamber and other organizations, Hastings Farm Supply has been able to spread the word throughout the community about our business. We appreciate companies like Promotional Partners that help in our efforts to assist local companies and non- profits alike. One such non-profit relies on Hastings Farm Supply to supply shirts for a fundraiser. Without the support of Olivia and Promotional Partners, we would be unable to guarantee an on time delivery of a much needed product. We are also able to offer farm and pet supplies with the value added service of knowledge and experience. This helps keep our dollars local while offering a pleasant local shopping experience. “
Copies of the publication can be picked up at the chamber office and local Apex Chamber businesses in the area.
APEX CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES DETAILS FOR ITS ANNUAL MEMBERS’ GOLF TOURNAMENT
(Apex, NC) –February 22, 2013—New venue, new prizes, new attitude. That is probably the best way to describe the 2013 Apex Chamber of Commerce golf tournament. In addition to holding the tournament at Brier Creek Country Club in Raleigh, this year the Chamber will be offering four big prizes for a player who makes a hole-in-one. The prizes include two vacations and a chance to win a new car. The tournament will be held Monday April 8.
“We thought it was time to change it up a bit, add a little more sizzle,” said Graham Wilson, Executive Director of the Apex Chamber. “This is one of our biggest member events of the year, and we wanted to offer our members the best golfing experience they could have.”
Modern Woodmen of America is the Premiere Sponsor for this year’s event. Other sponsors include Prime Mortgage Lending, EMC, MLB Construction, L.G. Jordan Oil, Time Warner Cable Business Class, Wake Med, BB&T, Rex Healthcare, Manning & Fulton, Wells Fargo, Progress Energy, Rogers Insurance, Suntrust Bank, Waltonwood, Vantage South Bank, Kraft Family YMCA, Chick-fil-A, Cary Living Magazine, ReMax/Cat Kearns, The Beer Dispensary and Bojangles.
The golf tournament is an integral part of the Chamber’s foundation. For the past 25 years, this event has been the largest fundraiser for the Chamber and serves to help members become deeper stakeholders in the Chamber’s overall success. Members enjoy the exposure and networking benefits the golf tournament brings to their business, and the Chamber considers the tournament a paramount event for its goals and initiatives in working for the business community.
The tournament is open to Chamber members and their guests, and sponsorship and playing opportunities are still available. For more information on joining the Apex Chamber of Commerce or to sign up to play, contact the Apex Chamber at (919) 362-6456 or join@apexchamber.com.
Apex Chamber of Commerce Honors Local Teachers
APEX, N.C. (February 20, 2013)-- The Apex Chamber of Commerce and its Education Committee honored Apex Teachers of the Year for their outstanding performance and commitment to students with a recognition event this week. The teachers, who were selected by their respective schools, enjoyed a delicious lunch at Longhorn Steakhouse and kind words from Apex Mayor Keith Weatherly, School Board Member Susan Evans, and Area Superintendent Clinton Robinson in appreciation of their hard work and dedication to their students. The Apex Chamber honors annual award-winning teachers each year, stressing the importance of quality schools and teachers to the future of local commerce.
This year's honorees were: David Zies of Apex High School, Mike Hosterman and Marcia Dale of Laurel Park Elementary, Erin Duffy of Salem Middle School, Jamie Gray and Manu Pinkus of Salem Elementary, Amanda Kearns and Hilarie Erb of Baucom Elementary, Jennie Jones of Lufkin Road Middle School, Paige Hutto of Apex Middle School, Rachael Stauffer and Rhonda Oliver of Olive Chapel Elementary, and Kelly Nuckols of Apex Elementary. The honorees were joined by their administrators and Chamber staff and Board Members.
College Nannies + Tutors generously sponsored this event, and Modern Woodmen of America sponsored beautiful engraved crystal paperweights provided by 5 Star Awards for each teacher as a show of appreciation for their achievement. The Apex Chamber thanks Promotional Partners, Cloer Vineyards, Spring Arbor of Apex Assisted Living, WakeMed, Girl Scouts- NC Coastal Pines, and Connected Care Cary for their goody bag donation items for our teachers.
About the Apex Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Apex Chamber of Commerce is to advocate for the business community and promote a vibrant and engaged membership.
Founded in 1958, the Chamber has an engaged operating group, motivated volunteers and a dedicated professional staff poised to implement progressive programs that aid in the profitability of its members, build a better economic community, develop future leaders and enhance small business development and growth.
Located in the historic Apex Depot (built in 1914 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places), the Apex Chamber of Commerce has been serving the business community and citizens of Apex, North Carolina for half a century.
To learn more about the Chamber and its initiatives call 919.362.6456 or visit www.apexchamber.com.
Apex Town Council Approves Incentive Guidelines for Businesses
APEX, N.C. (November 28, 2012)-- The Apex Town Council has unanimously approved new guidelines regarding incentive grants for economic development in Apex. These guidelines will be used by Wake County Economic Development and other agencies and will be shared with businesses that are interested in either relocating or expanding in Wake County. Under the new guidelines, the town will consider each opportunity on its individual merits and any incentives will be at the sole discretion of the Apex Town Council.
The purpose of the guidelines is to expand economic development opportunities for the Town of Apex that will diversify or expand the tax base, offer improved employment opportunities for its citizens and promote the economic growth and welfare of the local business and industrial community. The guidelines were drafted with input from the Apex Chamber of Commerce and were endorsed by the Chamber’s Board of Directors.
About the Apex Chamber of Commerce
The mission of the Apex Chamber of Commerce is to advocate for the business community and promote a vibrant and engaged membership.
Founded in 1958, the Chamber has an engaged operating group, motivated volunteers and a dedicated professional staff poised to implement progressive programs that aid in the profitability of its members, build a better economic community, develop future leaders and enhance small business development and growth.
Located in the historic Apex Depot (built in 1914 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places), the Apex Chamber of Commerce has been serving the business community and citizens of Apex, North Carolina for half a century.
To learn more about the Chamber and its initiatives call 919.362.6456 or visit www.apexchamber.com.
Apex Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Businesses
and Citizens at Annual Awards Ceremony
10/12/2012
Cary, NC—The Apex Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Awards Ceremony on October 11th at Prestonwood Country Club. Two local businesses were recognized for their outstanding commitment to the Apex community, and two citizens were celebrated following years of service and stewardship to their town.
The annual event is a highlight for Chamber members, and this year in included an elaborate dinner and a casino night with proceeds benefiting the Kraft YMCA’s We Build People Campaign. The ballroom came alive with laughter and networking as Town and business leaders came together for a night of fun for a worthy cause.
The Rusty Bucket was the recipient of the Small Business of the Year Award. This award is presented to a small business that represents the town in its support of both the community and Chamber initiatives. The Rusty Bucket was recognized by Outgoing President Jeff Hastings for their support of small business and their exemplary commitment to their community through numerous charitable drives.
The award for Large Business of the Year was presented to Cambridge Village of Apex, a growing company whose Apex location has served as a steward to their community by providing care to local seniors and welcoming local citizens and the community at large to become involved in their programs and initiatives.
Capping off the night was the Citizen of the Year Award, presented to Horace Johnson, and the Louis C. Smith Hall of Fame Award, presented to inductee Mike Wilson, Assistant Town Manager. Mr. Johnson was recognized for his longstanding commitment to numerous civic and community organizations, most notably The Apex Lions Club, and also for his commitment to senior wellness programs at Spring Arbor of Apex Assisted Living for the last 10 years. Mr. Wilson was recognized by Town Manager Bruce Radford for his devotion to the quality and healthy growth of the Town of Apex for its citizens.
Outgoing Board Members and Ambassadors were also recognized at the event. Outgoing Board Members are: Bill McClung—Capital Paving, Jacque Priddy—First Citizens Bank, Tom McCuiston—McCuiston Law Offices, Oral Wise—WakeMed, and Bonnie Holt—Wells Fargo Bank. Outgoing Ambassadors recognized are: Jim Vogel—IMU Social Media, Rick Frye—Insurance Service Center, Don Fowler—Inspro, Lisa Wilder—Wilder Communications, Bonnie Ferrari—Nationwide Insurance, and Tori Scuderi—Primrose School of West Cary.
The Annual Awards Ceremony is a time for both celebration and reflection of the year, and an opportunity to explore goals and challenges for the upcoming year. The Apex Chamber would like to thank our casino event sponsors: Apex-Cary Insurance, Sophie & Mollie’s Boutique, AABS, Walgreens, Spring Arbor of Apex Assisted Living, MLB Construction, Carolina Custom Kitchen and Bath LLC, and Crown Trophy of Cary.
For additional information on the Apex Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.apexchamber.com.
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Membership Celebrates at Savor Apex 2012
Apex, NC (September 19, 2012)-- The Apex Chamber held their annual Savor Apex Member Appreciation Party to celebrate their valued membership. Local restaurants provided delicious tastes of their most popular entrees, appetizers, desserts, and drinks for guests to enjoy under tented seating in the Apex Chamber parking lot. Chamber members were able to network, enjoy a "taste of Apex," in a fun, music-filled atmosphere. Highlights included a steady crowd of attendees, including Apex Mayor Keith Weatherly, Town Manager Bruce Radford, and members of Town Council.
Don Fowler, Jeff Hastings, and Mayor Keith Weatherly
Chamber members James and Kimberly Strunk, Juliet Malit, Sharon Galluzzo, David Newton, and Betty Ann Crump pose for a quick picture during the Savor Apex festivities.
Guests enjoy the sights and sounds of Savor Apex.