Fast Track 2025 and its theme, ‘Cultivating Growth, Inspiring Success,’ kicked off with an exciting V.I.P. Night, where dozens of well-known local businesses and organizations set up booths at the Clocktower at Commonwealth Centre to connect with the community.
The premier trade show, hosted by the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce, provided a space for businesses to showcase their services, distribute branded giveaways, and engage with visitors in a dynamic networking environment, which was a goal for organizers.
Attendees explored three rooms lined with business displays, including a sponsorship row that helped fund the annual event. Notable participants included Martinsville Speedway, Nelson Automotive, Sovah Health, The Lester Group, the city and county school systems, and the Martinsville-Henry County Historical Society.
Businesses Get Creative to Stand Out
Several exhibitors added a creative flair to their booths, donning costumes and interactive displays to attract visitors. Holly Kozelsky, executive director of the Martinsville-Henry County Historical Society, embraced the energy of the event.
“I love people who come by and visit our booth, but I also love walking around and seeing what everybody has and talking to them,” she said.
Chris Lawless, a candidate for the Collinsville supervisor seat and owner of Lawless Welding, featured a custom-made sculpture dedicated to Collinsville.
“I think it’s going great. We’ve had a great crowd tonight—lots of people, a lot of businesses are represented here tonight,” Lawless said. “We are getting a lot of love on the Collinsville letters, and we enjoy seeing everybody.”
Teachers and school officials helped staff the education booths, with Martinsville City Public Schools and its Performing Arts Academy hosting a drawing for tickets to an upcoming production of “Beauty and the Beast Jr.,” with shows at 7 p.m. on March 14 and 15 and 3 p.m. on March 16.
Superintendent Dr. Zeb Talley was pleased to see strong representation from the education sector. “It’s good to see so many vendors and education vendors here,” Talley said. “We like being able to display what the kids are doing and putting them on stage in front of everybody. It’s been good—one of the best.”
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers also engaged with attendees, providing information about Philpott Dam.
“Fast Track’s fun. We have a lot of engagement with people, and we are sharing things about Philpott, sharing all our free stuff, and putting out our water safety message,” said Chris Powell, operations project manager for Philpott Lake.
Meanwhile, the Martinsville-Henry County SPCA drew attention with adoptable — and adorable —puppies.
“We are loving the attention that the puppies are bringing to us,” said Samantha Roberts, a representative of the agency.
Local restaurants and breweries contributed to the event’s festive atmosphere, offering food and drink samples to attendees. Some caterers included Tad Tavern, Palumbo’s, and Scuffle Hill Brewery.
“People are really receptive. They are liking the craft beer,” a representative from Scuffle Hill Brewery said. “It looks like everybody is having a good time at Fast Track, and that’s what it’s all about. I’m just hoping to promote our local brand, promote Scuffle Hill, and grow the craft beer culture in Henry County.”
Both the Henry County and Martinsville Sheriff’s Offices, along with the Martinsville Police Department, were on-site.
Henry County Sheriff Wayne Davis and Martinsville Sheriff Steve Draper said they enjoyed interacting with residents and hearing concerns.
Martinsville Police Chief Robert Fincher was also among those engaging with the public.
“It’s going great. We are having a great time and really enjoy seeing everyone out,” Fincher said.
Businesses reported a strong turnout, with a steady flow of attendees throughout the evening.
“It’s good—a lot of local people and a lot of local businesses,” said Carson Stone of Pro-Graphx.
Fast Track will return in 2026 for its annual two-night event, continuing its tradition of connecting businesses with the community in an engaging and lively setting.
