“We thank our businesses who have always been there to help with sponsorships and financial contributions. Old Fort has a wealth of concerned businesses that want to help but cannot spare the time, which is needed to maintain and advance their own businesses.

“We thank the county government for its years of financial help. We also thank the Town of Old Fort for providing housing for our office over the years. Finally, we thank all of the businesses who have been members of the Chamber, both past and present, and wish you continued success in your future operations.”

In an interview with The McDowell News on Friday, Acrivos said he’s been running the chamber himself and is now ready to retire from it. In addition to his civic activities, Acrivos and his family own and operate Catawba Falls Campground. He said he plans to spend more time with his business.

In addition, the chamber has not gotten enough participation from businesses when it comes to holding special events. The Old Fort chamber operated Octoberfest but now that will be taken over by the Old Fort Ruritan, he said.

“The businesses help by providing sponsorships,” said Acrivos. “They are very good at providing sponsorships.”