The Pocahontas County Chamber of Commerce held its 6th “FISH BOWL” Grant Program on the evening of May 2 at the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank. Malinda Meck, representingThe OutHouse LLC in Green Bank provided a $500.00 grant for the event. All attendees paid a $10.00 fee for the event. These funds were added to the $500.00 grant. A light dinner was served and it was sponsored by Denise Campbell, Chamber member.
There were 3 contestants that presented their pitch for the grant money. The placings were determined by audience ballot voting scores.
The first place of $750.00 was awarded to “CW’S CORN MAZE.” This will be a fall adventure of opening a corn maze for the general public and to provide families with an opportunity for an educational as well as fun filled experience. Not only will participants go through the corn maze, they will have an opportunity to purchase a pumpkin, participate in a petting zoo and fun corn box. Michele Wilfong, mother of Charles Wilfong III (CW) presented the idea. She has been working with students and organizations to recruit volunteers for the event, and she has worked with some PCHS students to design the path for the corn maze. This exciting event will take place in the fall of 2019 in a field on the straight stretch going toward Cass. The success of the event will result in conducting the event in future years.
The other candidates making a pitch were:
Darrick Hayhurst made a pitch for his Barber Stop. This business is located near Snowshoe. His clients can enjoy a shave and a haircut in a family friendly environment. While waiting, clientele can enjoy foosball, darts, or watch a game on the big screen TV. You are encouraged to make a visit to this business and “try out” his services.
Sally G.Cobb made a pitch for Farmer Phil’s Fresh Market in Hillsboro. This business is slated to open in September 2019. It is located conveniently in town in the Burton Square that is also the home of Burton’s Laundromat, Deb Ann’s Fabrics, Jeanie’s Stylin Salon, and Melissa’s Knit and Hobby Shop. Farmer Phil’s will have an assortment of fresh produce, arts and crafts, a deli, soups, salad bar, homemade ice cream and sorbets. It will provide a nice atmosphere for town folks and traveling folks to gather and socialize. You will learn more about this new business as the Cobb’s approach the opening date.
Chamber members assisting with event were: President, Bill Jordan, Secretary, Jessica Stump, Green Bank Observatory representative, Marty Bloss, Bookkeeper, Malinda Meck and Chamber Liaison, Linda Simmons.

Michele Wilfong from Dunmore presents “CW’S CORN MAZE”