Several Bath County business owners are publicly questioning whether local businesses that support school athletics and activities are receiving the same support in return.
The discussion began after Kyle Thompson, owner of Thompson Tile Innovations, shared a social media post expressing frustration over what he described as a recurring pattern.
According to Thompson, local businesses are frequently asked to sponsor school sports teams and activities, but when those teams later purchase food or other goods, they often choose national chains or businesses outside Bath County instead of the local businesses that helped fund their programs.
As an example, Thompson referenced Sherrie's Pizza House, owned by his mother, Sherrie Willoughby.
"Sponsor season rolls around and almost every business in this town will donate. But when it comes time that the entities' money is being spent they sometimes choose to spend it outside of our community with bigger corporations," Thompson wrote. He added that he had personally witnessed sports teams request donations from Sherrie's Pizza House before later purchasing pizza from national chains.
His post quickly generated responses from other local business owners who said they have experienced similar situations.
Willoughby said her restaurant has supported numerous youth sports teams over the years but believes local businesses are often overlooked when purchasing decisions are made.
She also expressed frustration that some organizations allegedly failed to follow through on recognizing sponsors or supporting the businesses that donated to them.
Another business owner, Sadara Copher, said she made what she described as a significant donation to a local sports team after being promised advertising and recognition. She said that recognition did not occur until one of the final games of the season.
Copher also criticized the common belief that business donations are simply "tax write-offs," noting that donations still represent real money invested by small businesses.
Additional comments echoed similar concerns.
One boutique owner said schools and organizations had repeatedly requested donations while never purchasing products from her business. Another restaurant owner stated that local organizations often seek donations but later spend their money at national fast-food chains rather than local establishments.
Several commenters argued that keeping those purchases within Bath County would help strengthen the local economy and support the very businesses that invest in community programs.
The Morehead Minute has not independently verified the individual experiences described by each business owner.
District Declines to Comment
In an effort to present both sides of the issue, The Morehead Minute contacted Bath County Schools requesting comment on the concerns raised by local business owners.
The district was asked whether it was aware of the complaints, whether it has any policy encouraging schools or athletic programs to support local businesses whenever practical, and who is responsible for purchasing decisions involving athletic teams and student activities.
As of publication, Bath County Schools had not responded to our request for comment.
It is important to note that purchasing decisions involving athletics and student activities may vary depending on the organization. Some purchases may be made directly by the school district, while others may be handled by individual schools, coaches, booster clubs, parent organizations, or other affiliated groups.
Should Bath County Schools provide a response after publication, The Morehead Minute will update this story to include their comments.