Whats new at the Wilkes Chamber

2012 Year in Review from the NC Department of Commerce

2013-01-16T12:06:00.001-08:00

2012 Year in Review from North Carolina Department of Commerce

Cooperation and success go hand in hand, and North Carolina's collaborative style of economic development continues to win business. Although final numbers are not yet in, so far this year companies have announced over $3 billion in new investment in the state. National publications continue to notice North Carolina's many advantages. Just last month Site Selection magazine awarded the state it's top
ranking for Best Business Climate and last week Forbes announced its annual state rankings placing North Carolina fourth overall and second in business costs.

http://www.nccommerce.com/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=_uHr2itrvsc%3d&tabid=1536&mid=5976&utm_source=Chamber+Connections+-+January+2013&utm_campaign=Jan+2013&utm_medium=archive

2012-10-04T08:37:00.001-07:00

Business of the Day

We are promoting our member's on our Facebook pages. If you are a member, be on the lookout for your business to be the next Business of the Day!

2012-10-04T08:33:00.002-07:00

The Real Value of Joining a Chamber of Commerce

A Research Study by The Schapiro Group

* When consumers know that a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 44% more likely to think favorably of it and 63% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future.

* Most consumers (59%) think that being active in the local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy overall. It is 29% more effective, however, for communicating to consumers that a company uses good business practices and 26% more effective for communicating that a business is reputable.

* If a company shows that it is highly involved in its local chamber (e.g., sits on the chamber board), consumers are 12% more likely to think that its products stack up better against its competition.

* When a consumer thinks that a company's products stack up better against the competition because

the company is highly involved in its local chamber of commerce, it is because he or she infers that

the company is trustworthy, involved in the community, and is an industry leader.

* When consumers know that a restaurant franchise is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are

40% more likely to eat at the franchise in the next few months.

* When consumers know that an insurance company is a member of the chamber of commerce, they

are 43% more likely to consider buying insurance from it.

2012-09-06T07:02:00.001-07:00

Brushy Mountain Apple Festival T-Shirts are Here - Taking pre-orders NOW!

For More Information Contact Bethany Swaim @ 336-838-8662

2012-09-06T06:58:00.002-07:00

Hangin' with Jamie - Words of Wisdom about YOUR Chamber

The purpose of a Chamber of Commerce is to assist the business community, individually and collectively, in achieving prosperity in business. Let us help you succeed!

- Promotion throughout Wilkes County.

- Networking events to increase your contacts.

- Political advocacy to promote a healthy business environment.

- Referrals straight to your business.

2012-08-03T07:02:00.003-07:00

Hangin' with Jamie -

She is our Membership Director extraordinaire.

Here are her top 2 Reasons for joining your Chamber:

1) Good Citizenship: Be known as a home-grown business that is there for those who want to buy local and keep their dollars spent in our community.

2) Connections: Create strategic alliances and build lasting business relationships through networking, social media and events.

2012-07-30T08:49:00.002-07:00

That's a Wrap! Wrap! Wrap! Wrap!

By Terri Parsons, Wilkes County Film Commission

Wilkes Chamber of Commerce Film Office has been steadily busy over the past couple of months with writers, producers, location scouts, music videos and short films being made for film festivals.

“VENISON EATERS, a short partially filmed in Purlear at what is known as the old Clarence Benton Farm now owned by Cam Finley, wrapped production on June 10th. Once again we want to give a special thanks to the Wilkesboro Tourism Development Authority for providing a grant to the production company to entice them to film here,” said Terri Parsons Film Commissioner for Wilkes County. “VENISON EATERS film crew has plans on returning in the fall to shoot the film as a full length feature.”

Ms. Parsons states, “The Film Commission needs to come up with some kind of Grammy or Golden Globe for Brett Bortle of Weekend Warriors who kick started us two years ago with recording artist Matt Dylan (Red Dirt Rising), then a feature film that was premiered at North Wilkesboro Speedway. Brett also brought Curb Record recording artist Tim Dugger (Sunday Drive) a song which is used as the opening songs for NASCAR races on TV. Later, Brett was here for Sony recording artist Jason Michael Carroll (MEET ME IN THE BARN) which aired nationally on CMT TV on Halloween night hosted by Jason Michael Carroll. This video was shot at a farm located out in the county owned by Bert Hall and his wife and then completed at the Liberty Theatre in North Wilkesboro. North Wilkesboro Town Commissioners Bert Hall and Bart Hayes along with Mayor of North Wilkeboro, Robert Johnson, really rolled out the red carpet for Jason Michael Carroll when they cooked dinner for the whole cast and crew.”

“Brett Bortle returned on June 23^rd and 24^th with a music video involving recording artist John Stone (MAMA AND BUDWEISER). The shoot took place at Benton Hall in North Wilkesboro, a mobile home park located out by the Historic North Wilkesboro Speedway and a privately owned salvage on Speedway Road. Brett will return yet again on July 24^th and 25^th with country recording artist Darrell Harwood and he is planning to be back for his sixth production in a few weeks with a band out of Nashville. This shoot is scheduled to take place at Wilkes Regional Hospital,” reports Commissioner Parsons.

“Wilkes Film Office is currently scouting with a major studio for a feature film that is based on a novel. We have been asked to keep all details and names ‘under wraps’ until everything is finalized by the studio,” states Parsons.

"Wilkes Film Commission receives no funding to attract this business to the county,” states Linda Cheek, President of Wilkes Chamber. “Terri Parsons, Film Commissioner, has graciously given days and days of her time and has personally incurred the expense of travel and loads of other costs associated with productions to bring the industry to Wilkes. It is through her expertise, contacts, and overall knowledge of the film industry that has made Wilkes County so successful in bringing in all of these productions. When productions come to Wilkes they bring our county a tremendous amount of economic support as they create overnight stays in local hotels, food purchases at area restaurants, buy retail items, make equipment rentals, and purchase lots gasoline for the vehicles used. Terri reports some of the production staff has purchased larger ticket items such as local property and automobiles while in Wilkes County.”

Film Commissioner Terri Parsons states, “The Mayor of North Wilkesboro, Robert Johnson, has been gracious enough to help scout locations in North Wilkesboro, Wilkesboro, and throughout the county over the past two years. Location scouting really ‘takes an eye’ to know what is being described to you, normally over the phone. Someone locally born and raised in Wilkes knows where the little hidden treasures are tucked away.”

Terri Parsons explains, “Our Red Tape Cutting Committee has been the true draw to the Wilkes Film Commission. Once a director or producer, the art director, camera crew, and location scout leave Wilkes and travel to another project, they ‘spread the word’ on how well organized Wilkes was for their film production.” Terri explains, “We help them to receive needed permits within 24 hours and this allows them to get the production work done quicker and with less expense than they could elsewhere. The best part is that even though we have over 100 people on the Wilkes Film Commission Red Tape Cutting Committee, we don’t tie them up with monthly meetings. Our agreement with the committee in the beginning was if the production involves your business or your services, I will contact you. Other than that, we only have one organized meeting per year.”

Parsons further states, “The local people have been so extremely hospitable to the cast and crews. That is all any of the production folks want to talk about. I love talking to the crews as they travel all over and are asked, ‘where was the easiest place you have ever filmed?’ It never fails - they all say Wilkes County. The people are so friendly!”

Linda Cheek reports Wilkes Chamber of Commerce is currently developing a new “Film Wilkes” website. Visit www.ExploreWilkes.com and click on Film Wilkes to view mulitple Wilkes County images, testimonies from production officials, etc. The chamber will announce a photo contest later this year requesting local citizens to compete by submitting photos of the best and most unique images taken throughout Wilkes County. The video and motion picture production is affiliated with the tourism industry and is recognized with incentives provided through the North Carolina Division of Tourism. “We encourage Wilkes citizens to embrace this growing industry as it truly supports our local businesses,” Linda states.

2012-07-30T08:46:00.001-07:00

ENTREPRENEURISM - IT STARTS WITH OUR YOUTH

Written by Linda Cheek, President

The definition of an entrepreneur is an enterprising individual who builds capital through risk and/or initiative. A further decription says entrepreneurs emerge from a population on demand, and become leaders because they perceive opportunities available and are well-positioned to take advantage of them. Wilkes County for years has touted the “spirit of entrepreneurism” and this designation remains prevalent as we research the roots of the many locally owned businesses and industries. The statistics from the 2010 US Census indicate over 5800 businesses and industries are located in Wilkes County. From this number, we can safely say the majority began with an individual or group of individuals with an idea and from that idea, were willing to take a risk.

Recent business reports indicate an increase in entrepreneurs and in small business development, especially in rural communities. As a chamber, we recognize our membership growth is primarily generated by locally owned small businesses. This same type of rural community entrepreneurial growth is being embraced by many and appears to be prevalent throughout the United States. Don Macke, Co-founder and Director of Strategic Engagement with RUPRI Center for Rural Entrepreneurship, wrote the following in 2011 article, “This slower rate of job creation may be structural and permanent, not just part of the recession and recovery cycle. Coping with these changes will most likely require an expansion of small-scale entrepreneurship, enabling rural residents to enjoy the quality of life benefits of “rural living” and also to tap economic opportunities. Some of these opportunities are even created by the outsourcing of work by larger employers. Our work with the RUPRI Center for Rural Entrepreneurship over the past 10 years suggests that the rise in self-employment – small-scale entrepreneurship – and slow job creation are related and could present a development “silver lining” opportunity for many communities in the United States. The potential behind this phenomenon can best be observed in the rise of necessity entrepreneurship. Necessity entrepreneurs are driven into business by the lack of jobs in their region – many clearly would prefer to take a job if those opportunities were available. But, once in business, these entrepreneurs could help create the foundation of a whole new generation of ventures that will help re-invent and renew the rural American economy.”

In this article, Wilkes Chamber features two very young entrepreneurs, Joseph and Dodi Kamperman of Moravian Falls. Joseph, age 13 and Dodi, almost 12, became certified Master Gardeners through Wilkes County Cooperative Extension in May 2012. With an interest in seed catalogues and encouragement from their father, they began collecting heirloom seeds nearly seven years ago. In developing their inventory, they were fortunate to receive unique heirloom seeds from friends, neighbors, and people who heard of their interest. In 2010 Joseph and Dodi began their own business, J & D’s Heirloom Seeds. Much of the inventory is created by heirloom seed purchased. These young gardeners plant the seeds, grow the produce, and then save the seeds. Joseph and Dodi are continuing to learn more about the seed business and agribusiness overall through their participation in propagation classes at Wilkes Community College and such as grafting that are offered through Wilkes County Cooperative Extension.

Today in their heirloom seed 2012 catalogue, you will find “Big Boy Pumpkin,” a 40 year old seed acquired from an elderly lady friend from down the road and “Aunt Maude,” a dark pink colored tomato plant from seeds passed on by family members of friends from southwestern Virginia for over 100 years. These young men have over 14 varieties of tomato heirloom seeds available for purchase. Their catalog includes a variety of seeds such as herbs, beans, melons, collards, flowers, and even loofah. Joseph and Dodi created their packaging and designed and printed the labels. Joseph stated, “We receive help from our 9 year old sister occasionally. She helps with the counting of the seeds included in the packets. Some seeds such as the loofah seeds are sold by weight because of their size. Dodi stated, “We’re working on time saving methods to package seeds, using measurement rather than count for smaller seeds.” When asked how they determine prices, Joseph stated, “We determine by the seed age and by the demand, the greater the demand the lower the price, the less the demand, the higher the price. The older the heirloom seed, the higher the price. We also compare packet prices with other seed catalogs.” Joseph and Dodi have particpated in the Wilkesboro Open Air Market on Friday nights to sell J & D’s Heirloom Seeds.

In our interview with Joseph and Dodi Kamperman, we found these young entrepreneurs have a very interesting family. Their parents, mother born in Italy and father in Holland, met and married in Australia. While living in Australia the oldest daughter was born. The family later moved to the US and Joseph was born. A few years after that, they moved to Italy and Dodi was born. They later returned to the US and the Kampermans settled in Wilkes County in 2003. Joseph and Dodi aren’t the only young entrepreneurs in the family, their 16 year old sister who is a member of the Wilkes Quilters Guild, started a sewing business producing handmade aprons, pot holders, fabric wrap bowls and known as “Sew B’s.” We asked Joseph and Dodi about the challenges they faced. They indicated finding the heirloom seed varieties was their greatest challenge. What are Joseph and Dodi’s future plans? Joseph wants to own another business when he grows up. Dodi, he wants to keep the seed business and continue to build on it. To receive a 2012 J & D’s Heirloom Seeds Catalogue, contact Joseph and Dodi at jdheirloomseeds@gmail.com.

LEADERSHIP 2012

2012-06-29T10:33:00.000-07:00

We are Starting Leadership 2012! Make sure to be a part this excellent program!

The Yadkin Valley on the map for Wine

2012-06-29T10:29:00.000-07:00

For years, when Winston-Salem was mentioned, the only thing that would come to mind is a pack of cigarettes. The iconic brand created by R. J. Reynolds in 1875 has all but disappeared and the new players in town include a bevy of wineries that are taking the area by storm.
Winston-Salem's wine region is the Yadkin Valley, which is less than an hour away. Currently, there are around 35 wineries/vineyards in the Valley. For over a hundred years, the area was a key tobacco-growing region. However, as tobacco farming and cigarette manufacturing started suffocating, some entrepreneurs, including tobacco farmers, turned to wine making. The irony is that up until a few years ago, the Yadkin Valley was a Dry County, so there were a few locals who were less than happy when the crushing parties came to town.
The native grapes of this region of the southeastern United States are the Muscadine and the Scuppernong. Say that ten times fast. Early attempts to grow the European wine grape, Vitis vinifera, in the southeastern United States, including 18th century efforts by Thomas Jefferson at Monticello, Virginia, didn't go so well. But in the past few decades, viticultural research has helped adapt these grapes to the climate, soil, and pests of the region. Now the area boasts an impressive lists of varietals.

In 2003, the United States' Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (love that combination) approved the new appellation for the region with the name Yadkin Valley AVA, allowing winemakers to bottle wines with labels indicating that the wine came from the Yadkin Valley. Now it's an official wine making region, the local teetotalers can't say much.

Wilkes County - Blue Ridge Parkway

2012-06-19T13:46:00.001-07:00

Check out our ad on Blue Ridge Parkway Association website!!
Wilkes County - Blue Ridge Parkway

2012-06-01T12:20:00.002-07:00

Images of Wilkes

The Wilkes Chamber of Commerce presents the 2012 Business IMAGES of Wilkes,an annual publication that showcases Wilkes County lifestyle,business, industry, and people. IMAGES magazine is used as a county marketing tool and is distributed to individuals visiting and considering relocation to our area. The magazine articles are selected by the chamber and written by professional writers.Each page features amazing photography taken by an awarding winning Journal Communications staff, the photographer. Journal Communications, publisher of IMAGES, also publishes the North Carolina Travel Guide, which is distributed through the N.C. Division of Tourism.The Wilkes Economic Development Corporation partnered with Wilkes Chamber in the production of the 2012 Business IMAGES to feature a special advertising section placing an even greater emphasis on business and industry expansion, training opportunities offered through Wilkes Community College, community and town beauty and charm, and business/government collaborative efforts.Wilkes EDC received 2,500 copies of this professionally “special advertising section” to use as marketing material distribution. EDC President Jeff Garstka said, “Business IMAGES of Wilkes magazine and in particular the Special Advertising Section, provides EDC with a marketing piece that our offi ce can distribute to clients and during our participation with regional, state, and national conventions and conferences. The professionally published IMAGESmagazine is a great way to showcase a unique and business-friendly community with many opportunities.” The 2012 Business IMAGES is alsoa digital magazine, visit. BusinessClimate.com/Wilkes-NC-Economic-Development the chamber’s website, http://www.wilkesnc.org/ to view the publication, and also to link to a virtual tour of unique spaces, places and faces in Wilkes. Wilkes Chamber of Commerce is the marketing arm of Wilkes County.Our overall goal is to promote chamber member products and services as well as the many amenities Wilkes has to offer to individuals considering to visit and/or relocate to our area.We continuously place Wilkes in front of visitors, marketing the numerous events, attractions, and natural beauty through printed publications such as IMAGES North Carolina Travel Guide, High Country Vacation Guide, and the Blue Ridge Parkway Guide. To pick up a copy of the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce Business IMAGES or for information on advertising in the publication, contact the chamber office.

2012-05-31T11:59:00.001-07:00

There is alot going on here at the Chamber. We are preparing for our business
showcase. Please support your chamber and come out to the Business
Showcase.

If your interested in being a part of the showcase the time is right.

Call us today!

2012-05-31T11:54:00.000-07:00

Renewing Members May 2012

Aaron’s Sales & Lease Ownership

Allstate Insurance-Tonda Phillips

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

Basic Finance, Inc.

Blue Ridge Engineering, PLLC

Bojangles #6291

Briarwood Homebuilders, LLC

Brushy Mountain Water Company

Creekside Communications, Inc.

Dwight Phillips Auto Sales, Inc.

Ebenezer Christian Children’s Home

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Faw Insurance Agency

Foothills Auto Spa

Gentiva Home Health

Goodman Landscaping Plus

High Country Lumber & Mulch, LLC

Home Instead Senior Care

House of Vacuums NW

Impact Collision Center, Inc.

Integrity Design and Displays, Inc.

James River Equipment Company

Jodi Province Counseling Services, PLLC

Journal Communications

Libby’s Boutique

McRitchie Winery & Ciderworks

Miller Funeral Service, Inc.

Mountain Valley Hospice & Palliative Care

Nathan’s Batteries

Parsons, Terri

Pipedreams

Premier Restoration of NC, Inc.

Rainbow Center-Children & Family Services

Red Carpet Inn-Wilkesboro

Scott & Stringfellow, LLC

Shadow Springs Vineyard

Stillwaters Salon & Day Spa, LLC

The Sterling Group

Universe of Science, Inc.

Valley Radiology Associates, PA

Wilkes Garage Doors

Wilkes Senior Resources, Inc.

Yadkin River Greenway Council

New Members –May 2012

Java Hills Coffee & Ice Cream Shop

Stone, Larry and Diane

The Islands Massage

Please help us welcome all our New and Renewing Members to the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce!

2012-01-24T08:32:00.000-08:00

Stay connected with the events happening at the Wilkes Chamber, with a look at our January Monthly Mailer. This is a great resource for new businesses in Wilkes County as well as community events. Find our more about our BUY Local campaign and see the benefits in action of being a Wilkes Chamber Member. And while you're there take a look at the deals and specials our Chamber Members are offering!

Click Here for January Mailer

If interested in being a Chamber Member, contact Jamie Lakey at 336-838-8662 or by email to, jlakey@wilkesnc.org. If interested in advertising in "Your Chamber Connection" contact Tonia Perkins at 336-838-8662 or by email to tperkins@wilkesnc.org.

The Wilkes Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Members for the months of November & December 2011

2012-01-20T06:31:00.000-08:00

The Wilkes Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome our new members for the months of November & December. Please visit our website directory to find out more information on these and other businesses in Wilkes County. Business Directory Link

AFLAC-Nicholas Wehrmann

A Greener World Recycling, Inc.

C & M Precision Guns, LLC

Cadrenet, Inc.

Domino’s Pizza New/Deletion renewed

Pirate Race Productions, LLC

Playful Paws Pet Resort and Daycare

Security Financial Services

Sedgewick Homes. LLC

Smithey, Chuck H.

Stablemates Pet Care

Thompson Gas-Smokies, LLC

Thank you new members for supporting the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce! If you are interested in becoming a member or have a general membership question, please email Jamie Lakey at jlakey@wilkesnc.org.

The Wilkes Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Members for the month of October 2011

2011-12-02T12:43:00.000-08:00

The Wilkes Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome our new members for the month of October. Please visit our website directory to find out more information on these and other businesses in Wilkes County. Business Directory Link

Addison Properties, Inc

Annie's Travel, "Anywhere...Any Way"

Bank of America

MX Aircraft, LLC

Big Tom's

Byrd, Dr. Fay C.

Family Chiropractic & Wellness Center
Gardner Glass Products

H & R Block

Joines & James, PLLC

Lakey, Arnold N.

Law Offices of Greene & Burke, PLLC

MHS Technologies

Papa John's Pizza

Rid-A-Bug

Salem Foot Care, PA

Sherrill Faw Reality, LLC

Southern Candles, Inc.

Tim Harrold's Empire Chrysler Dodge Jeep

Waggles Pet Supply & Dog Wash, LLC

WATCO, Inc.

Westwood Hills Nursing and Rehab Center

Whittington Auction & Appraisal, LLC

Wilkes Economic Development Corporation

Wilkes JobLink Career Center

Wilkes Public Health Dental Clinic

Thank you new members for supporting the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce! If you are interested in becoming a member or have a general membership question, please email Jamie Lakey at jlakey@wilkesnc.org.

Your Chamber Connection - November

2011-12-02T08:59:00.000-08:00

Stay connected with the events happening at the Wilkes Chamber, with a look at our November Monthly Mailer. This is a great resource for new businesses in Wilkes County as well as community events. Find our more about our BUY Local campaign and see the benefits in action of being a Wilkes Chamber Member. And while you're there take a look at the deals and specials our Chamber Members are offering!

Click Here for November Mailer

2011 Holiday Discount Cards

2011-11-21T09:32:00.000-08:00

In an effort to further support local buying, the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce, the 2011 Chamber Christmas Parade Committee and The Town of North Wilkesboro have created and are distributing FREE Holiday discount cards to Wilkes County citizens during the holiday season.

We feel the discounts offered by local merchants will encourage Wilkes residents to "shop local first." The Wilkes Chamber of Commerce staff will distribute cards to the public at the Chamber office and the Parade committee will distribute cards to citizens attending the annual Christmas Parade, which is scheduled for Saturday, December 3 at 1:00 pm. The cards will also be available at the business locations of each participating merchant.

The Wilkes Chamber will have the cards available for distribution by November 18, just in time for "Black Friday" shopping. In general the discounts will run from Nov. 18 until Dec. 31, unless otherwise noted on the cards.

For more information visit online at 2011 Holiday Discount Cards, or call the Chamber office at 336-838-8662.

To receive the discount, you must have the 2011 Holiday Discount Card. They can be picked up at participating merchants or at the Chamber Office.

The Wilkes Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Members for the month of September 2011

2011-11-14T09:18:00.000-08:00

The Wilkes Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome our new members for the month of September. Please visit our website directory to find out more information on these and other businesses in Wilkes County. Business Directory Link

Aflac-Bradley P. Luty

Aunt B's Attic

Blossom Salon & Butterfly Boutique

Carolina Carpet Care & Restoration

Cottage House Restaurant

Harolds Restaurant

Jimmie Johnson Air & Heat

Keller Electric Co., Inc.

LuRay Textiles, Inc.

Mama Zoe's Seafood Shack

Oakwoods Grocery

Ultimate Car Wash

Watkins Metal Roofing

Williams Motel

Yadkin Valley Weather.com

Thank you new members for supporting the Wilkes Chamber of Commerce! If you are interested in becoming a member or have a general membership question, please email Jamie Lakey at membership@wilkesnc.org.

Your Chamber Connection - October

2011-10-13T10:17:00.000-07:00

Stay connected with the events happening at the Wilkes Chamber, with a look at our October Monthly Mailer. This is a great resource for new businesses in Wilkes County as well as community events. Find our more about our BUY Local campaign and see the benefits in action of being a Wilkes Chamber Member. And while you're there take a look at the deals and specials our Chamber Members are offering!

Click Here for October Mailer

If interested in being a Chamber Member, contact Jamie Lakey at 336-838-8662 or by email to, membership@wilkesnc.org. If interested in advertising in "Your Chamber Connection" contact Tonia Perkins at 336-838-8662 or by email to tperkins@wilkesnc.org.

Jon Swaim - SuperFly Outdoor Sports Owner - Pitt Auditorium

2011-10-06T06:43:00.000-07:00

Please join the Wilkes Reads Together for speaker, Jon Swaim on Thursday, October 6, 12 Noon, in the Pit Auditorium at Wilkes Community College. Swaim, Fly Fishing Teacher, Guide and Kayak/Canoe Rental Owner will discuss running an environmentally dependent business on the Yadkin River. This is a FREE event to the public!

SuperFly Outdoor Sports is YOUR outdoor connection for rentals, equip shuttle service, Guides and more! Kayaks, canoes, tubes, paddle boats, and mountain bikes available with transport to W. Kerr Scott Reservoir, the Yadkin River and the Greenway.

SuperFly Outdoors Sports is located at 2618 West NC Hwy 268, Wilkesboro, NC 28697. For more information or to make a reservation, please call (336) 990-0780.

Hours of Operation: Wednesday - Saturday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm, Sunday 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Closed Monday & Tuesday.

Small Business Impacts Local Economy

2011-09-15T07:08:00.000-07:00

By Linda Cheek, President of Wilkes Chamber of Commerce

Over the past three months, Wilkes Chamber of Commerce held 16 ribbon cuttings celebrating the opening or expansion of small businesses throughout the County. Ribbon cuttings are an excellent indication of business growth and job creation. This is evident as you observe the remodeling of supermarkets, opening of new and expanded retail stores, renovated and new dental and doctor offices and urgent care centers. Many of these business owners are entrepreneurs, venturing into a personally owned business for the first time. Jobs are being created during this new development, the money flow increases and the sales tax revenue to the county and towns rises. Supporting small business development and job creation places an even greater emphasis on the Chamber’s “buy local first” campaign. We encourage all citizens to consider making their purchases, utilizing services, and supporting local business first.

Small business development is gaining attention across the State of North Carolina. In the recent North Carolina publication, 2011 State of Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Governor Beverly Perdue states the report clearly demonstrates the importance of small businesses in our economy. Small businesses account for a very large part of our gross state product and provide a substantial number of jobs. Governor Perdue appointed the state’s first Small Business Commissioner in 2011 reflecting the State’s recognition of the importance and the dynamic role small business plays in job creation. Perdue has encouraged important tools and resources available to help “small businesses” grow and create jobs. A leading example is the BIZ BOOST initiative providing direct support and resources of existing to medium-sized businesses, helping them to sustain existing jobs and identify growth opportunities. Another supportive opportunity is the State’s expanded small business CAPITAL ACCESS PROGRAM, creating $46million available in federal funding. North Carolina is the first state to launch this program to take advantage of recent federal funding, an initiative to lower the risk of small business lending. Over the next months the State is expected to deploy allocated federal funds to leverage nearly $800 million in bank lending to small firms.

In 2007 there were an estimated 821,189 small businesses in North Carolina in 2007, indicating 47.9% of North Carolina’s 3,686,552 employees. The rural workers equaling nearly 95% go to work each day at a small business. The NC economy and the rural economy are dependent on these small businesses to create jobs and provide stability for rural people, their families and communities. In fact, small businesses were responsible for creating 70% of new jobs in the state from 1990 to 2000. The North Carolina Rural Center reports that small business is BIG in rural North Carolina as 95% of all establishments in rural NC employ fewer than 50 people, 80% of these employ fewer than 10 people. These rural businesses, with fewer than 50 employees, generated $14.5 billion in wages and provided jobs for 614,000 people in 2007. Small business out performs large businesses in job growth. While the largest establishments of 100 employers and more were losing jobs, many small businesses were creating and adding to payrolls.

Small businesses are critical to the survival of rural communities and owners of small businesses are more like to live in the community in which their business is located. Owners of small businesses bring money and wealth into the community. Money that is recycled through the community, boasting other local businesses and contributing to the local tax base.

The North Carolina District Small Business Administration (SBA) office processed 1,221 small business loans totaling almost $312 million in FY 2010 (33% higher than in previous years). Also in 2010, venture capital investment increased for the first time since 2007. In North Carolina, venture capitalists invested $456.3 million in 57 deals in 2010.

Wilkes County, with over 2500 established small businesses is known for its “spirit of entrepreneurialism,” is in need of jobs and an improved economy. Be supportive, buy local, keep your dollars in the county, help retain local sales tax revenue, and most importantly, support local business. This support can and will lead toward job creation and economic growth for Wilkes County.

Wilkes Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Members for August 2011

2011-09-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

The Wilkes Chamber of Commerce would like to welcome our new members for the month of August. Please visit our website directory to find out more information on these and other businesses in Wilkes County. Business Directory Link

2nd Street Barber Shop

Accessory's On the Go

Action Specialties, LLC

Airgas National Welders

Canter Construction

Customized Storage

Express Computer Clinic

Farm Bureau Insurance - Wilkesboro

FastMed Urgent Care

Green Mountain Outdoors, LLC

Living Waters Home Care, LLC

Mike's Bait & Tackle

North Wilkesboro Lion's Club

Second to Nature

Shape Up

Showcase Your Home

Sloop, Lisa - Cabi Independent Consultant

Sloop Properties

Spectrum Painting, Co.

Steppin Out Studio, Inc.

The Candy Company

Press Release - US Cellular Calling All Communities

2011-09-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

U.S. CELLULAR REVEALS MORE CALLING ALL COMMUNITIES ENHANCEMENTS

2011 Campaign to Feature Bigger Cash Prize and Potential Rewards for School Supporters

CHICAGO (August 15, 2011) –U.S. Cellular (NYSE: USM) today announced exciting enhancements to its third annual $1 million Calling All Communities campaign. In May, the company revealed that it was increasing the number of winners from 10 to 18 schools in the community-driven campaign that awards thousands of dollars to schools to enhance learning opportunities for students across the country. Today, U.S. Cellular announced that the school garnering the most votes will receive $150,000. The next 17 runners up will receive $50,000 each. Schools won’t be the only winners in this year’s campaign. Supporters will have more opportunities to vote and enjoy some cool rewards.

Between Sept. 9 and Oct. 6, anyone 18 years or older can visit any U.S. Cellular store and ask an associate for a code to vote for their favorite school at uscellular.com. Each online voting code gives people the opportunity to vote once daily until the campaign ends. The voting cards will feature a peel-off that gives thousands of lucky supporters a chance to cast two votes a day or be one of 18 people to win one year of free
U.S. Cellular wireless service. In addition, 2,000 randomly-selected voters will be awarded a $25 U.S. Cellular debit card simply for supporting their schools.

"We wanted to reward more schools with much-needed funds and the people who work so hard to support them," said Carter Elenz, executive vice president of sales and customer service for U.S. Cellular. "Each year, we’re amazed at the power of a few determined individuals who get the ball rolling in their community and the creativity of large and small schools across the country as they rally to win."

Public and private schools, kindergarten through high school, are eligible to win a share of $1 million that can be used any way the schools see fit. Past champions have said that while the money was an educational boon for the schools, the campaign to win stimulated an equally rewarding and lasting sense of community.

"Winning the money was great, but the way our community came together and got involved was priceless," said Greg Clark, principal of Seymour High School in Seymour, Tenn. The 2010 champion shared its winnings with other schools in the Seymour School District. Seymour High School used $40,000 for technology upgrades and gave $20,000 to the middle, intermediate and primary schools that channeled their support to the high school to help it win.

No purchase is necessary and you don’t have to be a U.S. Cellular customer to vote. The winning schools will be announced in October and November. For more information about U.S. Cellular, its cutting-edge phone lineup, high-speed nationwide network and Calling All Communities, visit uscellular.com or U.S. Cellular’s Facebook page.

About Calling All Communities
Since Calling All Communities began in 2008, U.S. Cellular has awarded $2 million to 20 schools throughout the nation. Voter participation in the 2010 Calling All Communities campaign reached 430,000 votes cast for 6,800–plus schools. Last year's champions included six public and four private schools from small rural and large urban communities in Iowa, Illinois, Oregon, Washington, Missouri, Tennessee and North Carolina. Past Calling All Communities champions have used their winnings in a variety of ways from outfitting their classrooms with new computers, Promethean boards or other technological advancements to renovating gymnasiums, school kitchens and science labs. Others have used the donation to make building infrastructure improvements, such as replacing outdated electrical systems. A few even paid portions of their proceeds forward, giving college scholarships to graduating students and donating to non-profits around the world.

About U.S. Cellular
U.S. Cellular rewards its customers with unmatched benefits and industry-leading innovations designed to elevate the customer experience. The Chicago-based carrier has a strong line-up of cutting-edge devices that are all backed by its high-speed nationwide network that has the highest call quality of any national carrier. U.S. Cellular was named a J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Customer Service Champion and received PC Magazine's 2011 Readers' Choice Award. To learn more about U.S. Cellular, visit one of its retail stores or uscellular.com. To get the latest news, promos and videos, connect with U.S. Cellular on Facebook.com/uscellular, Twitter.com/uscellular and YouTube.com/uscellularcorp.

For more information:

US Cellular Website

Campaign Rules

Questions

Previous Winners (videos/stories)

LaTrina Blair Shepherd
U.S. Cellular
(773) 355 - 3364
latrina.shepherd@uscellular.com