Team - FAB

The FAB Team

Monte Vega

President

Monte Vega is a lifelong North Carolina resident and owns Small Town Coffee Roasters in Downtown Rutherfordton. Growing up in rural Chatham County as the son of artist blacksmith Enrique Vega, Monte has been involved in the arts from an early age. These days, he focuses on growing his coffee business and raising his three children in Gilkey with his wife, Alicia Vega. Since 2019, Monte has been a key figure behind FAB Fridays, a monthly event series promoting local creators in Rutherfordton. Observing the transformation of his hometown, Monte believes in preserving small town values and supporting local businesses to sustain community wealth.

Bobby G

Community Outreach

Bobby G is a Small Business owner and operator with a passion for living life to the fullest no matter what. Hailing from Colorado, he made his way to WNC to dive headfirst into the Hemp Industry. With a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a dedication to sustainability, Bobby has successfully built and grown his business in the ever-changing landscape of the hemp industry. He is committed to the community and loves watching it grow and prosper. When he’s not busy with work, Bobby can be found embarking on outdoor adventures, discovering new places, and hanging out with his family and animals.

Michelle Antonie

Board

Rob Burbank

Interim Executive Director

Beth Burbank

Board Member

Rob and Beth Burbank are lifelong entrepreneurs who cherish the lessons learned through experience over formal education. As outdoor enthusiasts, they spend their free time in nature, with Rob playing piano and Beth gardening. With five grandchildren and a 12-year-old son, their family life is central to their community engagement. They are committed to empowering individuals to realize their potential, aiming to inspire and uplift others through their community and personal endeavors.

Brandon Daggerhart

Systems and Technology Director

Brandon Daggerhart is a passionate music educator in Rutherfordton, teaching piano and drums to students of all ages. With over fifteen years of experience in web development and graphic design, Brandon previously supported numerous charity and arts events in Winston-Salem and Greensboro before moving to Rutherford County. Now, he enriches lives through music education, community involvement, and digital creativity, fostering artistic expression and creativity within the community.

Marcos Encinias

Booking Manager

Mayce Mattox

Marketing Director

Mayce Mattox, a Rutherford County native with deep family roots in the area, is passionate about fostering community-driven growth from within. Despite studying in Durham and Raleigh, Rutherfordton and its small-town culture always called her home. As Marketing Director of FAB, she works to amplify the voices of local artists, makers, and neighbors – helping to create a vibrant, inclusive space where creativity and community thrive. Beyond FAB, she is a Barista at Small Town Coffee Roasters, where she brings her passion for coffee and connection to life.

Alicia Vega

Secretary

Alicia Vega has served on the FAB Board as secretary since 2022 and works as a local attorney in Rutherfordton at Vega Law Office, PLLC. Married to Monte Vega, Alicia is deeply involved in community events, especially the monthly FAB Fridays and the annual Halloween costume contest. She enjoys traveling, baking, and outdoor activities with her family, including her three children, Avie, Caleb, and Willow. Alicia’s commitment to her community and family reflects her dedication to fostering a vibrant and inclusive local culture.

Travis Hudgins, CPA

Treasurer

Travis is a 3rd generation accountant with over 10 years of experience in Public Accounting and Advisory. Born and raised in Rutherford County, he graduated from Chase High School in 2008, Isothermal Community College in 2012, Western Carolina University in 2014, and he most recently earned a MBA from the University of Florida in 2017. Travis and his wife Amber own a CPA Firm located on E Court Street in Rutherfordton. Travis is a devout christian, an avid sportsman, and loves his Florida Gators.