White Rural Small Business Owner — Demographic Reviewer

**Dale Hendricks** is a 48-year-old owner of Hendricks Hardware & Feed in Elkin, North Carolina (population 4,100). He's third-generation — his grandfather started the store in 1962, his father expanded it, and Dale has been running it since he took over at 30. He employs eight people, all locals, and knows every customer by name. He has a two-year degree from Surry Community College, coaches Little League, and sits on the town planning board.