THANK YOU!
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
Eye Candy Digital Video
Mike Martine

(757) 560-9512
mmartine@eyecandydv.com


Videography/Audio


Rhonda Kiker Cobb, CLU, LUTCF, LACP, Agency Manager Farm Bureau
Rhonda Cobb
911 Halstead Blvd
Elizabeth City NC 27909
(252) 338-0173

Insurance Agent
The Legacy Agency, Elizabeth City
Gregory Dillard
(252) 468-1421

Financial Services & Advisors


Long & Foster Real Estate-Mel Powell
Mel Powell
1100 W. Ehringhaus St., Elizabeth City, NC 27909

(252) 335-8600
me@longandfosterec.com
Real Estate
Thank you to our Ambassador Team
The Chamber is lucky to have a special group of people who volunteer their time to further our mission and ensure our members are connected and supported by the Chamber and the business community. 

BB Barco - BB&T
Cheryl Bright - Townebank Mortgage
Kelly Campbell - Townebank of Currituck
Linda Cox - Visionary Eye Care
Meleka Dipietro, United Country Real Estate
Rachelle Gunter - COA Small Business Center
Courtney Hobbs - Southern Bank and Trust Company
Jessica James - Taylor Mueller Realty
Travis James - Taylor Mueller Realty
Reanna Jimenez - Albemarle Family YMCA
Christina King - Comfort Inn
Melanie Metzler - B&M Contractors
Cortney Simpson - NCWorks
Steven Young - Prodigy Realty Group
Meet Our New Ambassador
Meleka Dipietro
A York, Pennsylvania native, Meleka discovered her passion in real estate while working in vacation property management right here on the Outer Banks. Meleka’s desire to serve her clients with the highest quality of care is one of her greatest assets. Amongst her passion for service, Meleka is a team leader and excels in helping first time home buyers find their perfect oasis. Her hobbies include supporting her growing downtown Elizabeth City community, crushing goals with her team, and opening doors for first time home owners.
Meleka will be serving as Ambassador in sector 7A.
Member Moment
Upcoming Chamber Events
The Coastie Corner

Welcome to CWO Shawn Tolson, an E-City Native
 
 
Cooler weather has finally come to Elizabeth City! I’m just about to mark my second month as Base CO, and am using electronic navigation less and less as I make my way around the city. Despite the various COVID restrictions making introductions more distant and perhaps even virtual, it has been great to get to know more community partners over the last month. I also managed to spend some rewarding time at the Food Bank of the Albemarle giving back with our Chief Warrant Officer Association (CWOA) Chapter in the past week. As you’re probably aware, our Coast Guard members are quite dedicated to volunteer work within Elizabeth City as well as the surrounding areas. 

One of these members is Chief Warrant Officer Shawn Tolson, who recently got assigned to USCG Base Portsmouth as part of our financial modernization team, but is an E-City native and works onboard Base Elizabeth City two days a week. CWO Tolson graduated from Northeastern High School in 1992 and has been an Elizabeth City resident on and off for the last 33 years. He has favorite memories from the Time-Out Arcade and the River Spree annual event that the Boys and Girls Club held in previous years. He helps run the a local AAU Basketball program (North Carolina Blazers) as well as help coach Varsity Football at Northeastern HS in his spare time. I’m excited to have CWO Tolson onboard, and appreciate his passion for Elizabeth City and his work with our future leaders in these local sports programs.


CDR Brook Sherman, Commanding Officer, Base Elizabeth City
News from our Members
Albemarle Floral
Albemarle Home Care and Hospice
Albemarle Regional Health Services
Amedisys Hospice
The Angel Operation Project
Brackwater Brush Studio
Camp Cale
Christ Episcopal Church
Rental space available downtown on the corner of Church Street and Poindexter Street.

500 square foot space available for rent next to Todd's Pharmacy and True Images Salon.
First room is 19x18.5 with large windows overlooking downtown Elizabeth City. Second room is 8.5x13.5 with built in shelving and small closet. Large bathroom as well.
$650 per month
Please contact Kim Willis at 252.338.1686x2 or administrator@christchurchecity.org.
 
 
Coastal Carolina Cannabis Center
Coastal Pediatrics
College of the Albemarle
College of the Albemarle Small Business Center
Dental Transformations-Currituck Dental
Doctor Francis A. Bald & Associates
Two Locations:

2224 S. Croatan Highway Suite 7
Nags Head, NC 27959
 252-441-4300
 
1134 N Road Street Building 7
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
 252-338-8077


DR. FRANCIS A. BALD & ASSOCIATES


Please call today for an estimate.

At both locations we pull teeth AND place implants, do biopsies, and many other services. We will file your insurance for you.

We participate with Care Credit, Scratchpay, and Lending Club if you need to make a payment plan.

A new patient comment recently commented, "Your staff and Dr. Bald make a scary and uncomfortable situation so easy and relaxing. Thank you for what you do."


We look forward to serving you. As we move forward during this pandemic, Dr. Bald is now seeing all patients, not just emergencies. 


Doctors Morris & Taylor, LTD
DV Cleaning & Homes Services, LLC
Education Foundation
Elizabeth City Downtown, Inc
Downtown Digs
Elizabeth City Raffle
Buy a ticket for a chance to win free living in a downtown Weatherly Lofts loft-style apartment for one year.

Prize includes one year’s free rent, free parking, free wi-fi, a utilities allowance, and a $5,000 decorating allowance. Alternate cash prize option is $15,000.

Tickets are $100, odds of winning will be kept to no more than 1 in 1000.

Raffle sponsored by 501(c) 3 nonprofit entity. Proceeds go toward downtown revitalization.

For details or to request tickets visit www.downtowndigsec.com or call the ECDI office at 252-338-4104 or 252-340-2784.
Elizabeth City Habitat For Humanity
Are you or someone you know interested in applying for a Habitat for Humanity home? Many people who don’t qualify for a conventional mortgage do not realize that they might be eligible. The household income limit for a family of four is $50,650. Many of our essential workers in law enforcement, fire, and education may be eligible to apply.

The primary criteria are: residency in Pasquotank County, ability to pay a mortgage, willingness to partner with us by completing sweat equity hours, and need. Whatever need is listed on the application will be verified during a home visit. In addition to the application, we need a copy of the latest tax return, credit score and proof of income (all sources).

The application is then evaluated by a mortgage lender to determine the applicant’s ability to pay. This includes an examination of the person’s credit record and determination of the debt-to-income ratio. We want our homeowners to be successful, so we use the same criteria as traditional lenders.
While the application is under review, we encourage applicants to take an online First Time Homebuyers course. This costs $35. Time spent taking this course counts toward the sweat equity requirement. Applicants are also required to complete in-person budget and credit counseling sessions as well.

If the mortgage lender finds that you qualify, you will be scheduled for a home visit by members of our family selection committee.

The purpose of the home visit is to verify the need that you stated on your application. If you said that your living conditions are poor or overcrowded, we need to see that. If you said the rent or utility bills were too high, we need to see those bills during the visit.

The Board of Directors reviews the home visit report. If approved, the new partner family signs a partner agreement which specifies the design of the house as well as loan pre-approval amount, and family responsibilities for sweat equity. Families who do not fulfill the requirements of the agreement can be deselected by the board. This is not something that the board does willingly but must sometimes be done for the integrity of the program.

Applicants are available at Taylor Mueller Realty, 440 S. Hughes Blvd., or at our store, 306 Mill St. The store is open Thursday and Saturday, 10:30-6.
Elizabeth City State University
Food Bank of the Albemarle
The 2020 Walk for Hunger will be a virtual fundraising event this year.

Sign up and have your supporters donate online to you as an individual or to your team, or download the forms below to turn in cash or check donations. We need your support now more than ever!

Your team can start fundraising today for the Food Bank, and every $1 is equal to approximately 4 meals! The more your team raises, the more meals we can provide to men, women, children, seniors, veterans, and active duty military that are in need of food assistance.

  • FUNDRAISING: Every $1 you raise for the Food Bank is equal to about 4 meals! It’s really simple- the more money raised, the more meals we can provide to people in need in our communities.
  • WALK for HUNGER! As a virtual event, the distance you walk is entirely up to you! Get out and walk on your own, or with friends and family. Share your progress on social media, and let them know you’re raising money to support hunger-relief in your community!

!Reminder! The Walk for Hunger for 2020 will be an entirely virtual event. 
Featuring box lunches from:
Fusion Office Business Centers
Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast

 
Day of Caring Volunteers Make A Difference
with Girl Scouts

On September 18, 2020 Albemarle Area United Way hosted their annual Day of Caring. Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast (GSCCC) was one of the agencies to benefit from this event. Five volunteers from Sentara Albemarle Medical Center gave a day of their time to help paint and clean the GSCCC Elizabeth City Field Center, known by Girl Scouts as the "Hut," where troop and local meetings are held. The volunteers did indoor and outdoor maintenance including gardening and refreshing interior paint and trim. 

On site to complete the project was Jody Karup, GSCCC Property Director, Ron Everman, Sentara HR Manager, Amanda Raulerson, Nurse, Donald Bowling, Sentara Medical Director, Katie Moran, Nurse, Bethany Parker, Nurse and Patrick Murphy, GSCCC Property Maintenance Assistant.
 
Day of Caring Volunteers

(Photo from left to right: Jody Karup, GSCCC Property Director, Ron Everman, Sentara HR Manager, Amanda Raulerson, Nurse, Donald Bowling, Sentara Medical Director, Katie Moran, Nurse, Bethany Parker, Nurse and Patrick Murphy, GSCCC Property Maintenance Assistant.)
About Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast
Girl Scouts of the Colonial Coast, a United Way agency, serves nearly 12,000 girls in grades K through 12 with the help of more than 5,000 adult volunteers in southeastern Virginia and northeastern North Carolina. Girl Scouts offers a one-of-a-kind leadership development program for girls, unleashing the G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)™ in every girl. Since 1912, Girl Scouts has been building girls of courage, confidence and character who make the world a better place. To volunteer, reconnect, donate or join, visit www.gsccc.org or call 1-800-77SCOUT.
Green Saves Green
Harbor Counseling PC
IBX Insurance Agency
Image Advertising
Jeffery's Greenworld and Florist
Jones Family Chiropractic
Gut Health? What Improves it & What Destroys it
The health of your gut has a huge impact on your body and it goes a long way in determining your overall health. The trillions of bacteria present in the digestive tract make up the gut microbiome (made up of good and bad bacteria, yeast, fungus molds, etc). And they help in digestion and contribute to the health of our entire body, including our brains, immune system and more.
Below are some ways your gut health impacts your overall health:
The immune system
The bacteria in the gut microbiome play a fundamental role in protecting us against infections. The beauty is that our immune system which detects and destroys pathogens does not attack the bacteria in the gut microbiome. Instead, it works in a mutually beneficial partnership and helps to maintain the symbiotic relationship of the host with these microbes.
That’s more reason why the bacteria in our gut have a large influence on our susceptibility to immune-related diseases. So when we eat foods that can be disruptive to our health our gut works as our first line of defense.
Digestive health
Many good bacteria in our gut help with digestion, nutrient absorption, and even more functions. But when there is a disruption in the balance of gut bacteria, this can often lead to various gastrointestinal problems, including Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis and other inflammatory bowel diseases.
Brain health
You might have noticed a sick feeling in your stomach whenever you hear bad news or you’re in a stressful situation. That’s because the gut has a strong connection with the brain. In fact, there is a constant flow of signals between the brain and the gut via the enteroendocrine cells located in the lining of the gut.
So any problem with your gut health can contribute to depression, anxiety, or stress. Research has shown that the gut also has an impact on mood and behavior.
Heart health
When you hear the saying, “the road to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” it means something more. There’s actually a link between the gut and the heart.
Part of the chemicals produced by the microbes ends up in our bloodstream and moves throughout the body. One good example is trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), which has been shown by studies to potentially cause blockage in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.
However, another study showed that gut microbiome helps to increase the level of triglycerides and HDL cholesterol (the good kind).
Weight gain, Obesity, and Diabetes
The bacteria in the gut microbiome also play a role in the body’s metabolism. In fact, research has shown that an imbalance in gut bacteria levels could lead to an increased risk of obesity and diabetes. Studies are still ongoing into how the signals from the gut influence metabolism and contribute to conditions like Type 2 diabetes.
What destroys your gut health?
These gut busters are destroying reducing the number of good bacteria in your gut:
·        Heating and eating hot fermented foods, such as sauerkraut or kimchi (eat them cold)
·        Eating foods containing artificial sweeteners and refined sugars
·        Eating high-sugar diets
·        Eating processed foods containing additives
·        Indiscriminate use of antibiotics
How to improve it
You can improve your gut health to maintain the right balance of the bacteria in your digestive tract. Here are some simple measures to follow:
·        Load up on fresh fruits, veggies, and beans, and eat more whole grains and nuts.
·        Brush and floss your teeth regularly
·        Limit sugars and artificial sweeteners
·        Keep fermented foods like kimchi refrigerated below 1150F
·        Eat prebiotic fiber like bananas, garlic, asparagus, and chicory
·        Avoid indiscriminate use of antibiotics
·        Reduce stress
·        Exercise regularly
·        Get enough sleep
Julius Star Tattoo Gallery
The Legacy Agency, Elizabeth City
Long & Foster Real Estate Inc
Phyllis Bosomworth and Erin Nixon are pleased to announce the Sales Agent and the Listing Agent for August 2020.
August Sales Agent
August Listing Agent
Listing Agent of the Month for August is Rhonda B. Twiddy: She is a lifelong resident of Elizabeth City and has 40 years of experience in sales, business development and organizational management. 
Rhonda’s commitment to excellent service guides her clients to successful real estate decisions.    Her extensive community knowledge makes her an asset to her clients. She serves as Past Chair of the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank County Tourism Development Authority, serves on the board of the Committee of 100 and is a Rotarian.
Rhonda was a Multi-Million Dollar Producer in 2015 and 2016, and a Mega-Million Dollar Producer in 2017, 2018 and 2019.


Our friendly staff is encouraged to help you buy or sell your home. We put forth the passion, dedication, and time to ensure you are well taken care of and are happy with our service. If you are looking to buy or sell a home in the Elizabeth City, NC area, give us a call or send us a message. We would love to help you get the best deal. We also deal in rental properties.
Lowe's
Midway Auto Group
Museum of the Albemarle
NCWorks
Nextcare Urgent Care
Party in a Box For Kids
Perry Auto Group
RCE Theaters
Select Rental Services
Shaklee Independent Distributor - Gwen Bell

Contact Gwen Bell,
Independent Shaklee Distributor for details
252-337-4942

Small Paws Veterinary Clinic
Most of us know Halloween to be a fun and festive holiday. However, to pet dogs and cats, this spooky celebration can cause unusual behavior, even from the most docile of animals.

Having a bunch of kids running around at night in scary costumes, with flashlights shining and
haunted noises can make even calm pets anxious and on alert.

If you own a pet dog or cat and live in a neighborhood that has trick-or-treaters, follow some helpful safety tips that will ensure everyone stays safe.

Please visit http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/halloween-safety-tips for more information. We hope everyone has a safe and fun Halloween!

505 North Road Street or call us at 252-384-0109
 Small Paws Veterinary Clinic

Spectrum Reach
James Stanley's Painting
Taylor Mueller Realty
Tree of Life Martial Arts Training Center
True Images Salon
Undercutter Tree Service
Professionalism at a Price That Can't be Beat!
 Are you looking for a reputable tree service one that is capable of any tree job? If so call Underutter Tree Service!

Owner Jeremy Lassiter is an ISA Certified Arborist and certified in tree risk assessment.

For a free estimate call
252-455-4544 today.

U.S. Cellular
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE




Providing this new program comes with its own set of challenges and new supplies are needed. In response to the need, U.S. Cellular has created an online supply campaign where businesses and area residents can purchase items being used by the Club to assist kids during this time. U.S. Cellular has also purchased the first $100 in supplies and is challenging other Elizabeth City businesses to do the same. Area residents are also encouraged to donate as well by shopping from this Amazon link.

“Our U.S. Cellular team from Elizabeth City met with the Boys & Girls Club and identified an immediate need for their new remote learning support program,” said Ryan Fleury, store manager for U.S. Cellular in Elizabeth City. “We are happy to kick off this campaign and challenge others in the Elizabeth City community to invest in the kids at our local Club. This program allows the kids to be successful and safe during the day and provides peace of mind for working parents.”

"We are so excited for this collaboration with U.S. Cellular and are hopeful that we will see great community involvement during this drive. Our staff are working daily with our Club members to ensure that they are successful with their remote learning, and having these additional supplies would continue to keep our members prepared and encouraged as they take on each day. We look forward to doing more great things with U.S. Cellular that will benefit the youth of our community," said Hashira Rodriguez, Elizabeth City Unit Director for Boys & Girls Clubs of the Albemarle.

In 2019 U.S. Cellular celebrated five years of supporting Boys & Girls Club of America and STEM-focused education through a $1 million donation to the organization’s academic pillar. $70,500 went directly to six clubs in North Carolina, and local associates spent 620 hours volunteering their time with these clubs and a variety of other non-profits throughout the year.

For more information, go to www.uscellular.com/about/community-outreach.

About U.S. Cellular
U.S. Cellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier is building a stronger network with the latest 5G technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. It is ranked #1 in the North Central Region in the J.D. Power 2020 Wireless Network Quality Performance Study – Volume 2. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with U.S. Cellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.

# # #

For more information, contact:
Melissa McIntyre
Public Relations Counsel
828-777-0193
Vector CSP
Waterbrooke of Elizabeth City
SH Whitt, LLC
Zaribel's, Featuring Kinderdance By Zaribel
Kinderdance By Zaribel
2020-2021 Season is Up and Going!

Classes starting at 15 months of age - 12 years old. Enrollment stays OPEN throughout the year, as long as there is space, you can enroll your child at any time! To check our schedule, enroll or sign up for FREE trial class please fill out this form ----->

Make sure to follow our business pages for class updates and also, fun classes & workshops for adults! Our Studio space is also available to rent for parties, special occasions & events! If you're a business owner looking for a place to conduct business or start your business, make sure to check us out too!

252-621-3393
Renewing Members

A TO Z CLEANING
ADICA ENTERPRISES
ALBEMARLE SCHOOL
ANDY'S PANCAKE & STEAKHOUSE
BANKERS INSURANCE, LLC
BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF THE ALBEMARLE
CAMDEN FARM BUREAU INSURANCE-CHUCK HODGES
CHIEF PETTY OFFICERS ASSOCIATION
CURRITUCK BBQ COMPANY
DOWN HOME SHEDS
EDUCATION FOUNDATION OF ELIZABETH CITY-PASQUOTANK PUBLIC SCHOOLS
ELIZABETH CITY HOUSING AUTHORITY
ELIZABETH CITY STATE UNIVERSITY
ENERGY UNITED PROPANE
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT GROUP
G.R. LITTLE AGENCY, INC.
I-MAX
JOHN E. FEREBEE FARMING, INC
JORDAN COMPANY, INC
JULIUS STAR TATTOO GALLERY
KATHY'S KREATIONS
LIVABILITY
MICHAEL P. SANDERS, PC
NC DIVISION OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION SERVICES
PEPSI BOTTLING VENTURES OF ELIZABETH CITY
RIVER CITY GYMNASTICS, LLC
TOTAL CARE FOR WOMEN
TWIFORD FUNERAL HOMES, LLC AND ALBEMARLE CREMATORIUM
TWIFORD LAW FIRM P.C.
UPS STORE
VISIT ELIZABETH CITY
VLINC CORPORATION
WADDELL & REED, INC
WEST TOWN BANK & TRUST

Thank you to our 2020 Sponsors
502 E. Ehringhaus St., 
Elizabeth City, NC 27909
(252) 335 4365