March 20 Event at WinMock Highlights Community Impact and Economic Momentum
The Davie County Chamber of Commerce brought together local leaders, businesses, and community partners for its 56th Annual Meeting on Friday, March 20, 2026, at WinMock at Kinderton, celebrating a year defined by growth, collaboration, and community impact.
Chamber President Caroline Moser welcomed attendees and recognized elected officials, sponsors, and members who continue to move Davie County forward.
“Today is a celebration of 56 years of dedication, growth, and success,” Moser said. “Because of you, we have supported businesses, fostered connections, and helped build a strong, thriving economy. Through your support, we have provided businesses with essential resources, facilitated valuable networking opportunities, and championed collaboration across industries. The result? A dynamic business community that continues to grow and succeed – because of YOU.”
Not pictured but received Class Participation: Derrick Wold, Meka Ingram
Leadership Davie Project Leaves Lasting Impact
A highlight of the morning was the presentation from the Leadership Davie Class of 2025, delivered by Tamela Tatum, who shared the story behind the class’s community project benefiting Impact of the Piedmont.
After visiting the organization’s residential apartments for adults with neurodiverse challenges, the class recognized the need for a shared outdoor gathering space.
“We wanted to create something that would have a lasting benefit,” Tatum said. “A space where residents could gather, connect, and enjoy time with family and friends.”
Through strong community support, the class exceeded its fundraising goal and delivered a fully realized outdoor space, including picnic tables built by Davie High School students, a pergola foundation completed by Habitat for Humanity volunteers, and added amenities to encourage connection and fellowship.
“The joy we saw from the residents reminded us why projects like this matter,” she added.
Graduates of the Leadership Davie Class of 2025 are: Tamela Tatum, Heritage Alliance Project; Alex Bell, Belmont Insurance Group; Mike Cadiente, Tru Taekwondo; Rana Gaither, Town of Mocksville; Amanda Lagle, Mocksville Concrete Company; Sandra Porter, Davidson Davie Community College; Aiden Stefanelli, REEB Millworks.
Class Participants: Derrick Wold, DC Public Library; Meka Ingram, Cone Health
(L to R) Caroline Moser, Claire Alder, Kristine Williams
Recognizing Excellence in Business and Service
The Chamber honored several individuals and organizations whose contributions continue to strengthen the local community.
Board Chair Brandon James of Marzano Capital Group thanked 2025 Board Chair Michelle Younts of Pinnacle Bank for her service. Over the past year, Michelle has not only guided us through challenges but has also embraced opportunities, ensuring that our Chamber continues to grow, thrive, and serve as a driving force for economic success in Davie County. Her leadership has strengthened our mission, fostered meaningful connections, and helped us position a bright future.”
Moser also shared a huge thank you to Jay Kimura of Quail Ridge Confections and Allison Carr of Davidson Davie Community College for serving on the board.
Kristine Williams presented the Caterer of the Year Award to Jacqueline Martinez and Richie Arellano of Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant, recognizing their consistency, flexibility, and care in serving the community.
“They go the extra mile every time,” Williams said. “They truly care about every event they support.” Williams also presented the Ambassador of the Year Award to Claire Alder of The Loft at Sunflower Trails, noting her leadership and dedication.
“This award goes to someone who truly shows up, helps out, and makes our Chamber stronger every single day. This person is always welcoming new members, volunteering at events, and bringing a positive attitude that makes a difference for everyone around.
James then retook the stage to present Small Business of the Year to Steelman’s Ace Hardware, highlighting the importance of small businesses as the backbone of the local economy. James spoke to the role small businesses play not just in commerce, but in community.
“In a world where big-box stores and online giants dominate the marketplace, our 2025 Small Business of the Year reminds us what a hometown business is all about. For 20 years now, they have been more than just a hardware store — they have been a trusted neighbor, a problem-solver, and a cornerstone of our local economy.”
He recognized Steelman’s Ace Hardware for its commitment to customer service, community involvement, and its long-standing reputation as a trusted local business.
“But what truly sets this business apart is their investment in this community…and neighboring communities as well. They support local events, schools, Little League teams, and other organizations. They hire locally. They give back generously. They understand that a business doesn’t just operate in a community — it belongs to it.”
Following that presentation, Board of Directors Cameron Shirley of Davidson-Davie Community College took the stage to present Business of the Year to REEB Millwork. In her remarks, Shirley emphasized REEB’s strong performance and its impact beyond business success.
“This business not only achieved record-setting production in 2025, they also increased capital investment to expand production capabilities in the future. This investment positions the business for long-term success and growth, and continued positive economic impact in our community.”
“This business prides itself on a people-first culture, including a commitment to develop talent from within – boasting several internal promotions in 2025. Additionally, their most recent employee survey showed continued growth in employee engagement and support. This business prioritizes its employees and wants it to be a great place to work.”
She also highlighted the company’s involvement in local initiatives, including Habitat for Humanity projects, school supply drives, and efforts supporting Davie Hunger Fighters.
(L to R) Caroline Moser, Dubb Potts, Adam Ridenhour
Humanitarian Award Celebrates a Life of Service
Board of Directors Adam Ridenhour of Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist presented the E.C. Tatum Humanitarian Award to W.G. “Dubb” Potts, whose lifetime of service has impacted education and the broader community.
“His life reflects a simple but powerful commitment—to show up, to serve faithfully, and to place others first,” the presentation noted.
From his work as a school administrator to his continued volunteer presence in local schools and leadership across multiple organizations, Potts’ impact has been both wide-reaching and deeply personal.
(L to R) Caroline Moser, Clint Junker, Charlotte Junker Williams, Will Junker, Representative Julia Howard, and Keith Beck
New Leadership Award Honors Lasting Legacy
A powerful moment came with the introduction of the inaugural Julia Howard Leadership Award, presented by Board of Directors Keith Beck of Beck Enterprises and Representative Julia Howard. Beck described the award as one recognizing the highest standards of leadership and unwavering commitment to Davie County. “The Board could think of no better namesake for this award than Representative Julia Howard, whose decades of service in the North Carolina House of Representatives has consistently placed Davie County first.”
The first recipient, honored posthumously, was Bill Junker, remembered for his integrity, faith, and dedication to serving others. “He made Davie County his home, his purpose, and his legacy,” said Beck. “As a man of faith, integrity, and devotion, this year’s recipient built his family and business life within this county. His determination and dedication were vital to his vision. He led people with strength, he encouraged and believed in people, and his warm southern greeting made you feel seen and important. He was a friend to so many and purposed in his heart to leave Davie County better than he found it many years ago.”
Representative Howard, who was surprised by the award, added, “How appropriate that this award is given to someone that we all knew, appreciated, and loved…He touched so many people along the way, and it is an absolute honor for me to present this first award to a friend.”
Economic Outlook Reinforces Davie County’s Strength
The event concluded with keynote speaker Dan Gerlach, who provided insight into national and state economic trends and how they translate locally.
Drawing on his experience as a former Governor’s advisor and president of the Golden LEAF Foundation, and now public policy consultant, Gerlach emphasized that Davie County is well-positioned within North Carolina’s strong economic landscape.
According to Gerlach, Davie County continues to stand out as a growing force in the Piedmont Triad, with a unique blend of industry, workforce strength, and quality of life driving its success. Davie County’s ability to balance where people live and work is a key factor in its long-term stability.
A healthy local economy depends on a mix of residents and jobs. Davie County benefits from three important groups: those who live and work locally, those who commute out for work, and those who travel into the county for employment. Maintaining that balance ensures the tax burden is not placed solely on homeowners and allows businesses to share in supporting community services.
Manufacturing Remains a Cornerstone
Manufacturing continues to play a central role in Davie County’s economy. While the industry has seen significant changes over the past 30 years due to globalization and automation, Davie County has remained resilient.
North Carolina as a whole has lost roughly half of its manufacturing jobs over that time. In contrast, Davie County has experienced only about a 15 percent decline—a testament to strong local leadership, a skilled workforce, and the collaboration between schools and Davidson-Davie Community College.
Gerlach emphasized that manufacturing remains critical because it brings new dollars into the community by producing goods that are sold outside the county. That inflow of revenue helps sustain local growth and opportunity.
Adapting Through Economic Diversification
While manufacturing remains vital, Davie County has also successfully diversified its economy. Growth in sectors such as hospitality, retail, transportation, and construction has helped offset losses in traditional manufacturing jobs.
This diversification positions the county for long-term success. Communities that rely too heavily on a single industry often struggle when that sector declines, but Davie County’s broader economic base provides stability and flexibility for the future.
Location and Quality of Life Drive Growth
Davie County’s strategic location continues to be one of its greatest assets. With convenient access to major corridors like Interstate 40, Interstate 77, and Interstate 85, the county is well-connected to major population centers and markets.
Combined with an established manufacturing workforce, these advantages have helped the county remain competitive and continue growing alongside the broader North Carolina economy.
At the same time, Gerlach pointed to what he called Davie County’s “secret sauce”: its high quality of life. From small-town charm to strong community connections, the county offers an environment where people want to live, work, and invest.
Looking Ahead: Investing in the Future
Key indicators such as education, workforce availability, and economic performance all point in a positive direction for Davie County. The county is not only keeping pace with the state—it is steadily improving.
Looking ahead, Gerlach emphasized the importance of continuing to invest in education and infrastructure while confidently promoting the community’s strengths.
“The most important thing you can do,” he noted, “is believe in your community and share that story with others.”
Sponsors
Moser thanked the sponsors who made the event possible:
Platinum Sponsors
- Town of Bermuda Run
Gold Sponsors
- Garage Doors of the Triad LLC
- Gildan
- Ever Trust Construction LLC
- Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant
- Onyx Media Group
Chamber Champions
- Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Davie Medical Center
- Novant Medical Center
- Allegacy Federal Credit Union
- Tru Taekwondo
- Trusit
- AVGOL
- Davie Construction Co
- DEX Heavy Duty Parts
- Movement Mortgage
- Dunlop Aircraft Tyres
- Marzano Capital Group
- REEB
- WinMock at Kinderton
- Yellow Butterfly Home Care
- Zirrus
Special thanks to Wayne Thomas, Bill Adams, and the entire crew of WinMock for hosting us this Morning and to the NEW Catering Company – Smokin’ Swine BBQ & Catering for a delicious breakfast!
A Morning of Celebration and Connection
The annual meeting served as a reminder of the people and partnerships that continue to shape Davie County’s future. From business leaders to volunteers, educators to elected officials, the morning highlighted a shared commitment to progress and community.
As attendees lingered to network and celebrate, the message of the day was clear: Davie County’s strength lies not only in its economy but in its people.
Photos by Nick Jones of Onyx Media