IT S A LIFESTYLE: DISTINCTIVE BUSINESSES
Getting down to business
FAST FACTS Per capita income 14.3% above state and 4.5% above national averages. Poverty rate 45% below Arizona and 19.5% below national averages. Cost of living 7.8% below Arizona and 6.2% below national averages. Gas 10% below national average. Source: Area Vibes
BY ALEXIS BECHMAN ROUNDUP STAFF REPORTER
Businesses have been opening in Rim Country at a slow but steady pace despite the impact of the recession and the long, slow recovery. With the turn of the year, quicker home sales, the prospect of at least four major new developments with up to 600 homes, strong sales by a handful of new, major retailers and a sharp rise in permit fees paid by would-be developers and builders will hopefully signal the end of the slowdown locally. For a complete list of businesses, visit PaysonMarketplace.com. The site, operated by the Payson Roundup, is an expanded online phone book. The site provides detailed information and reviews about nearly every business in Rim Country, including those smaller shops tucked away and off the main highways. The Roundup also launched a new feature on its Web site to let would-be buyers search the MLS listings and connect to local Realtors. The recent arrivals add to Rim Country’s distinctive businesses. Rim Country has always attracted folks with diverse experience who have opted for lifestyle over maximizing income — which means the business community includes its share of former corporate executives, artists and entrepreneurs. Moreover, the busy summer tourism season brings a flush of business that can sustain unusual business models. For instance, Fossil Creek Creamery has awardwinning goat cheeses and fudge and is featured at local restaurants.
The area also supports craft stores and art galleries, including two galleries operated by the local artists whose work adorns the walls. Some of the newer businesses that have joined include: The beers at THAT Brewery, 3270 N. Highway 87, and Mountain Top Brewery, 401 N. Tyler Parkway, are dreamed up and concocted on site. Meanwhile, Dimi Espresso coffee shop has won a loyal following in Payson, offering Wi-Fi, a cozy atmosphere, plenty of space to spread out, pastries, lunch,
smoothies and a satisfying variety of coffee. The new social hub even has dance lessons and open mic nights. One of the most successful restaurants to open in Payson in years, Ayothaya Thai Café, at 404 E. Highway 260, has brought new life and flavors to Rim Country. Owners Mac and Man Katepratoom brought the décor and their knowledge of Thai food from Thailand from which they immigrated nearly a decade ago. Also joining the Rim Country business community in 2013 were Big Lots, PetSmart and Sal & Teresa’s Mexican Restaurant.
Rim Country has lots of distinctly local businesses like Dimi Espresso in Payson (top), which serves up dancing and open mic nights along with the coffee. Pine and Strawberry boast an array of antique and art shops, a honey stand, an ice cream parlor and restaurants.
52 | Move to RIM COUNTRY | 2014