Name of person featured: Michael Black

Name of Business: Patty Rhodes State Farm

Street address: 1200 Armory Drive, Suite B

Phone number: 757-562-2020

Operating hours: 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

E-mail address: Michael.c.black.L514@statefarm.com

Nature of business: Insurance and financial services

Principle owner/manager: Patty Rhodes, agent

Year founded: 2009

Number of employees: 4

How’s business? Business is great! We are growing every day.

One thing you wish everyone knew about your business: We are a one-stop shop. We can take care of all your insurance needs such as auto, home, renters, life and health. We even have a full-service bank!

Something you offer that a customer won’t find elsewhere: Hometown customer service. Our customers are our neighbors and friends.

Advice to young entrepreneurs: Treat your customers like they are the most important people in the world, because they are.

Your first job: I worked at Aunt Jane’s Pickle Factory during the summer while in high school.

Your role model (in business or in life generally): My dad. He was a business owner and community leaders for more than 45 years.

The key to a successful business is: Never forget that your customers are the reason you are able to go to work every morning.