By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – What once was an old car dealership service bay has now transformed into Hoops Pizza, bringing with it the promise of fresh, locally-inspired pizza and a welcoming community space. The grand opening on Thursday was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
A Warm Welcome from the Community
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was orchestrated with a mix of formality and humor. As local chamber representatives and town officials gathered, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and pride.
Tyler Bryant, president of the Chatham Chamber of Commerce, set the tone for the event with a warm welcome, emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses. “We are so excited to have y’all here. Larry, Brenda, and Jonathan, thank you all for taking the chance to make an investment in this climate, as well as making an investment in our community and our county.”
The Vision Behind Hoops Pizza
The pizzeria’s interior is a playful homage to basketball, with a court-inspired floor and memorabilia adorning the walls. The name “Hoops Pizza” is a nod to the sport that the owners and many in the area hold dear.
Brenda, who is the owner along with her husband Larry, noted that: “We can’t do it without the community,” she said.. “We want to be engaged in the community, so thank you very much.”
Jonathan, the store manager, shared his excitement. “We know we wouldn’t be able to survive without all you guys, you know, coming and trying us out. We’re just excited to be here and continue to grow with the community.”
The Importance of Small Businesses in Pittsboro
Mayor Kyle Shipp spoke to the sentiment that small towns like Pittsboro rely on the success of its local businesses. “Thank you all for making an investment in Pittsboro,” he said. “It’s an amazing transformation of what was a car dealership service bay at one point. Another option in town, especially for lunch, is great. We appreciate you all being here and investing in our community.”
The Ceremony: A Moment of Celebration
As the ribbon was held taut, Tyler added a touch of humor to the proceedings. “Don’t run with those scissors,” he quipped, drawing laughter from the assembled crowd.
Hoops Pizza Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. (photo by Gene Galin)
With that, the owners took their places, scissors in hand. The crowd, instructed to join in the celebration, prepared to cheer. “One, two, three, cut!” Tyler called out, and with a swift snip, the ribbon fell away. The crowd erupted in applause. Tyler summed up the significance of the moment. “This ribbon represents your success in the business, your investment in the chamber, and your investment with also the people who are going to come too.”