Graham "Bear" Ray: Elkin

2025 NC Main Street Champion

Watch The Recognition Video

Graham “Bear” Ray, owner of Black Bear Tattoo, brought new life to downtown Elkin when he relocated his business in 2023.

He purchased and transformed a key property at the eastern entrance, earning the Community Beautification Award from the Yadkin Valley Chamber. He also became downtown’s first Certified North Carolina Destination Business.

Bear hosts events during downtown festivals and donates all proceeds to local charities—supporting The Ark Women’s Shelter, Feed the Elderly (which he also delivers for), Mercy and Truth Ministries, and the Elkin Valley Trails Association.

In 2024, Bear joined the Main Street Advisory Board, became a Town Commissioner, and helped launch Rally in the Valley—a 3-day, family-friendly motorcycle event that brought in over 2,000 visitors and raised $5,000 for local causes.

Bear has beautified, invested in, and energized downtown—always the first to say, “Let me know how I can help” which is why Elkin honors him as its 2025 Main Street Champion.