We talk with Jess Matthews of Matthews Fly Aerial Imaging about turning a love of aviation and photography into a family-run drone business that serves real estate, events, and local organizations. We explore FAA rules, the Part 107 license, practical use cases, and the personal story that fueled her leap into entrepreneurship.

• origins of Matthews Fly Aerial Imaging as a family business
• what professional drone work includes across sectors
• FAA regulation, registration, and Part 107 licensing
• typical altitude limits and airspace awareness
• balancing entrepreneurship with family life
• real estate, contractor, hotel, school, and event use cases
• new business status, service areas across AL, GA, and FL
• how to reach Jess on Facebook and by phone

Matthews Fly Aerial Imaging

706-577-6828

To nominate your favorite local businesses to be featured on the show, go to gnpauburn.com. That's gnpauburn.com. Or call 334-429-7404

Rachel Pair and Jonathan Hendrix share the story of Spicer's Music, a family-owned music store in Auburn celebrating 13 years of bringing musical joy to the community. The business started as a music lesson program before expanding into instrument retail, rentals, repairs, and live sound events, creating a musical haven where people of all ages can connect through their shared passion.

• Spicer's Music began in December 2012 with a focus on music lessons before expanding into retail
• The lesson program currently employs 28 instructors teaching students of all ages, from children to seniors
• Approximately one-third of their students are college-aged or older, dispelling the myth that music education is only for kids
• The business successfully pivoted to virtual lessons during COVID-19 when many similar businesses had to close permanently
• Music connects people who might never otherwise meet, serving as a universal language across generations
• Both Rachel and Jonathan emphasize it's never too late to learn an instrument, with many students starting in their 70s
• The team views their work as bringing joy through music to the Auburn-Opelika community and beyond

Visit Spicer's Music on 2140 East University Drive in Auburn, email lessons@spicersmusic.com, call 334-329-7529, or check out spicersmusic.com for more information.

Brad Hickman, owner of River City Door Company, reveals how garage doors significantly impact curb appeal and home value, consistently ranking as a top ROI home improvement. A new garage door can yield over 100% return on investment when selling your home, outperforming even kitchen remodels.

• Garage doors occupy 130-140 square feet of your home's exterior, making them a major focal point
• Design consultants match door styles to your home's exterior materials like brick, hardy board, or shiplap
• Virtual design tools can show how different doors will look on your actual home
• Modern color options include 13-14 standard colors plus custom color matching
• Contemporary trends include flush doors with side windows, a 1970s style making a comeback
• Budget-friendly options include adding insulation, windows, or financing your purchase
• Indicators it's time to upgrade include excessive noise and waking the neighbors

Visit the River City Door Company showroom at 300 North Dean Road, call 334-521-0630, or go to rivercitydoors.com to request information.