Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: FRIDAY, September 24, 1993 TAG: 9309240080
SECTION: BUSINESS PAGE: A-9 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Landmark News Service
DATELINE: MEBANE, N.C. LENGTH: Short
"When they take out a construction permit, we will believe it," he said.
But a smile appeared on Stephenson's face Thursday when he mentioned the German language courses he will start this weekend.
"If for nothing else, it'll be an experience to learn a little German," he said.
Like Stephenson, most Mebane residents were cautiously optimistic about news reports Thursday that the German auto manufacturer would build its first U.S. assembly plant in North Carolina.
Residents say similar rumors have surfaced before, only to be squashed by other reports placing the city at the bottom of Mercedes' list of possible sites.
"You read one day you're at the top and the next day you're at the bottom," said Ken Capes, who co-owns Warren's Drug Store. "I don't think it changes that fast. You have to take the bad news with a grain of salt."
Hardly a minute goes by these days, he said, before a customer mentions the Mercedes sweepstakes.
"It's the main subject of conversation. You have people who decided six months ago Mercedes was coming here and they haven't changed their mind."
by CNB