Meet Taylor
Taylor moved to Moore County in 2007 to run financial advising office. She met Baxter a couple months later, at the very first First Friday, where her office was a sponsor and his students were performing.
It's been 16 years of feeling welcome here, running a business, starting a family, and helping establish a school here in Southern Pines -- and she is dedicated to preserving our community as the best place to live in North Carolina.
Education: She graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Degree in Business Administration (Marketing), from UNC Pembroke with a Master's Degree in Business Administration (MBA, Finance) and then received a Certification as a Financial Planner (CFP).
In her financial career, she was licensed as a Series 7, 63 & 65 broker, Insurance Sales and still holds a CFP Designation.
Business Experience: After working as a financial advisor for over 10 years, she left that career path to help her husband, Baxter, open a family business, Casino Guitars. Taylor now manages the business finances, payroll, taxes, social media & the teaching studio.
The guitar shop has 5 employees and a second location with 8 teachers.
The shop has grown into a destination with a YouTube following and worldwide sales but maintains its small town, boutique feel.
Similarly, Southern Pines can be a destination to visit with great restaurants and social life, while still being a perfect small town to live and raise a family.
Leadership Experience: Taylor has served on the town council and previously on the board of The Boys and Girls Club, Moore Montessori Community School, Mira Foundation, the Junior League of Moore County and as an Ambassador to our town's Sister City in Newry, Northern Ireland.
Campaign Treasurer
Frank Thigpen
Frank has been practicing law in Moore County since 1972 He graduated from High Point University and UNC School of Law. He and his wife, Lynne, have three grown children and 9 grandchildren. He is quick to speak on the achievements and encourage others. Frank is a member of Southern Pines United Methodist Church and an active Kiwanian.
He is President of the Moore Bar and 20th Judicial District Bar, Board of Trustees of North Conference of the United Methodist Church but most of all grandfather of grandchildren who have won 4 State Championships in Tennis and Basketball.
Campaign Chair
Micah Niebauer
Micah is CEO and co-founder of Southern Pines Brewing Company. He and his wife, Patricia live in Southern Pines with their two children. He is a veteran of the 82nd Airborne and 3rd Group Special Forces. Micah is quick to volunteer his time, resources and leadership skills; serving as a leader in community & business organizations such as NC Brewers Guild, Penick Village, and Moore County Economic Development Group.