Written by Gabrielle Pack, Intern with The Messenger

Troy University has partnered with the Pike County Chamber of Commerce to provide something new – and money saving – to students.

University students will be able to purchase a “discount card” for $5 beginning in February to score deals at local clothing stores and restaurants. The card will be valid until January 2014.

The project began in October of last year with the Troy University Student Government Association partnering up with the Pike County Chamber of Commerce to brainstorm ways to bring revenue to local business and a create steady clientele from Troy students.

The chamber challenged the SGA to look at other schools and come up with a plan to best benefit both the students and local businesses.

“It’s a great way to encourage students to buy locally and establish relationships,” said Kathleen Sauer, President of the Pike County Chamber of Commerce.

New and returning students will be introduced to new businesses, products, and services. With the help of 25 committed merchants, the project will meet its deadline in the middle of February. Sauer said Village Coffee, First Impression, Glow, Cotton Creek, Prissy Pants and Momma Goldberg’s have all agreed to participate in this “win-win relationship.”

“Businesses will craft their own discounts most suitable for them,” said Will Thompson, SGA President.

Brett Vann, partner with Momma Goldberg’s in Troy, said that, demographically, university students are the restaurant’s biggest supporters.

“This is a perfect way to show our appreciation to the students,” Vann said.

Van said the Momma Nachos is the number one seller among college students. Instead of taking percentages off that item, the store will run a combo special for discount card-carrying students.

The combo will be offered every day and consist of the nachos, a sandwich and regular drink for $7.99.

All discounts will be posted on the SGA website for one calendar year. If merchants want to participate they can always come in and fill out the mandatory paper work, but businesses must be chamber members, Thompson said.

Sauer said this is the first time the chamber and university have partnered in this fashion and gives credit to the SGA for taking on the challenge and executing the plan.