Small businesses arriving and thriving in Columbia County

DAYTON—The Port of Columbia Executive Director Jennie Dickinson frequently says jobs in Columbia County are counted by ones and twos, and the ones and twos are adding up.

At last week’s Cup of Joe, Port Economic Development Coordinator Kathryn Witherington, introduced a few new businesses in Dayton to attendees gathered at the Winter Rose Café & Boutique.

Winter Rose Café & Boutique

All things led back to Dayton, according to Amanda Toms, who along with Tyler Usco, are the proprietors of the Winter Rose Café & Boutique. While living in North Carolina for fifteen years, Toms said she wanted nothing more than to bring her creative talents back to Dayton, which is her home town. Winter Rose Café & Boutique opened its doors to the public during Christmas Kick-off.

Slippery Slope Photography

The Weinhard Café is displaying a few 8”x10” photos and some panoramic shots by a new photographer in Dayton. Adrien Rosamond of Slippery Slope Photography said his interest in photography began when he bought an expensive camera for a trip to Vietnam, and then thought to try his luck at commercial photography. Rosamond said he prefers landscapes, life style photos, and weddings, over family photos. Slippery Slope Photography is located at Rosamond’s home at 1207 S. 3rd St, and Rosamond also has a Facebook page.

Dayton Auto Repair

Business has been brisk since Robert Bryant opened Dayton Auto Repair at 218 W. Main St. in January. “I can’t see myself doing anything else,” said Bryant, who is a certified automotive and diesel mechanic. Bryant said his goal is to establish good relationships with his customers. It must be working, because Bryant said his customers call him to let him know he is doing a great job.

Village Shoppes

Rory Buddle operates Village Shoppes for her parents who bought the building at 245 E. Main St. last year. “”I always wanted a shop with my dad” said Buddle, who includes some items, like the large FASHION sign, in the window of her shop, along with other items for sale from her father’s collection of art and antiques. Buddle said the customer response has been good.

Private Counseling

Witherington said there is a new private counselor in Dayton. Jennifer Purswell has an office in the Port’s administration building.

C. Mann Leather

Witherington said Chelsey Mann of C. Mann Leather has a new business, hand stitching leather purses and accessories. She also has a Facebook page.

Port-owned Buildings

When the Port commissioners met in February, Witherington talked about Port-owned buildings that are available for new businesses.

A 576 sq. ft. space at the Blue Mountain Station is available in March. Jonathan Betts owner of Manila Bay Restaurant has closed the restaurant, which was in Suite B, and is moving his family to Vancouver, Wash., she said.

There is still one 1,500 sq. ft. space left in Building No. 2, at the Blue Mountain Station. Local Artist Jordan Henderson, and a liquor mixing business will lease space in that building.

There are also three spaces for lease in the Rock Hill Industrial Park, she said.

Starbuck

Witherington said a new store is coming to the Town of Starbuck in the next few months. Owners Mike Latimer and Jackie Spence, from College Place, are wrapping up the permitting process and have applied to the state for a liquor license. Spinners Tackle, Grocery and Deli will open at 210 Main St. in Starbuck.