News
What to know about early IRA withdrawals
While you’re working, you may be contributing to an individual retirement account (IRA), which can provide a tax-advantaged way to save for your future. So, is it ever a good idea to tap into your IRA before you retire? Ideally, you should leave this account intact until your retirement. After all, you could spend two or more decades in retirement, so you’ll need a lot of financial resources. Still, life is unpredictable, so there may be times you’ll consider taking money from your IRA. You’ll need to be
Dobson Releases Statement on State Budget Bill
Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson released the following statement regarding this week’s passage of the state budget bill: “I commend the North Carolina General Assembly for passing the biennial state budget earlier this week, and Governor Cooper for signing the budget into law shortly thereafter. House and Senate leadership, as well as the Governor’s Office, worked diligently over the past several months to come up with a plan that – while not perfect – will ultimately benefit North Carolinians. I am
Member Monday-RDM Industrial Electronics
Member Monday By Tina M. Wolfe In the land of plenty the imitable American Dream is often thrown around in motivational speeches and promotional advertisements like candy being tossed out at a Christmas parade. While the Dream is dangled like a carrot hinting at immediate gratification, there are thousands of decisive moments and millions of actions (sometimes over generations) that must happen to culminate in solid, scalable business success. RDM Industrial Electronics, Inc. is a study in achieving
Maximize your charitable giving
The Tuesday after Thanksgiving has become known as Giving Tuesday, when people are encouraged to donate to charitable organizations. If you’d like to take part in this special day, you’ll want to maximize the effectiveness and benefits of your charitable gifts. So, consider these questions: Is the charity reputable? Does it use its resources wisely? Most charitable organizations are honest and dedicated to helping their specific causes. But sometimes there are a few “bad apples” in the bunch. These groups
Work with life partner to achieve mutual goals
When you and your life partner work together to achieve your important long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement lifestyle, the experience can be greatly rewarding. However, your success will require commitment and discipline. So, what steps should you take along the way? One key move is to decide early in your relationship how you will handle money. Many couples merge their finances and make joint decisions on major purchases. But some couples like to keep at least part of their finances distinct,
North Carolina Farm Grants Available
The NC AgVentures Grant Program is accepting applications for the 2022 grants. Deadline for applications is 8 p.m. on Dec. 15, 2021. NC AgVentures is an NC State Extension program that provides grants to North Carolina family farms and community organizations that support family farms, to develop new and innovative agricultural projects which will increase farm profits.Grants are available to North Carolina family farms and community organizations such as livestock associations, farmer co-ops or farmers
Covid -19 Federal Vaccine Mandate Update
In a North Carolina Chamber of Commerce webinar, North Carolina Department of Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson and Labor and Employment Attorney Phillip Strach discussed the Biden Administration's vaccine mandate and pending litigation that may impact its implementation. Commissioner Dobson expressed his concern in a November 4 press release and went further this week announcing that while the mandate is working its way through the court system, "The North Carolina Department of Labor will take no action. We
Employee Retention Tax Credit Deadline
Release Date: November 11, 2021 The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) will end early due to the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). On Friday, November 5, 2021, the House of Representatives passed the IIJA which is expected to be signed by the President on Monday. The Senate approved the legislation back in August. While the majority of this $1+ trillion legislation is not tax-related, it does amend ERTC provisions. Enacted in 2020 to encourage employers to retain employees
Financial tips for new veterans
On Veterans Day, we honor the men and women who have served in our armed forces. If you’ve recently separated or retired from the military, or you will be leaving soon, you can be proud of the service you’ve provided to your country. But once you’re a veteran, away from the structure and imperatives of the military, you may need to take greater control over managing your finances and protecting your family. For starters, consider housing. When you were on active duty, you may have moved around frequently
Dobson Releases Statement on 5th Circuit Court Ruling
MEDIA STATEMENT Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson released the following statement regarding the action by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit to stay the Biden administration’s vaccine mandate: “On Saturday, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals granted an emergency motion to stay the Biden administration’s vaccine mandate for large employers. According to the court, it granted the stay because the plaintiffs “give cause to believe there are grave statutory and constitutional issues” with the
NC Department of Labor Responds to Vaccine Mandate
Release: Immediate Contact: Jennifer Haigwood Date: Nov. 4, 2021 Phone: 919-707-7705 MEDIA STATEMENT *UPDATE: Following the recent Circuit Court ruling, Dobson issues additional statement: "Labor Commissioner Josh Dobson released the following statement regarding the action by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit to stay the
Is Your Business Worried About Facebook's Name Change
November 4, 2021 Marion, NC Entrepreneur On October 28, Mark Zuckerberg announced the name change of Facebook Inc. to Meta Platforms , the new parent company that will encompass all of the tycoon's businesses and will be the start of his anticipated 'metaverse' . Given this, many users of the social network wonder what will happen to their Facebook account . Will my Facebook profile be changed to Meta? It is important to note that the change from Faceboon Inc. to Meta Platforms , the official name
New Internet Provider Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
On Tuesday, October 12, Bridge Internet of McDowell County celebrated their tower in Nebo with a ribbon cutting at the McDowell Chamber of Commerce offices. Bridge Internet is an internet service provider that is working to bring internet to areas across the United States. It is no secret broadband is a consistent roadblock for many people who do not have adequate access to internet. Bridge Internet’s tower, located in Nebo, will seek to help combat the broadband needs of the greater McDowell County
Creative Ways To Boost Your Email List
Email marketing is a key marketing strategy for brands and small businesses that want to communicate directly with their customers. If you want to grow your email list, here are some creative ideas and proven strategies that help attract new subscribers. Add simple signup forms on your website Encourage website visitors to become newsletter subscribers by giving them multiple opportunities to join your mailing list. Install an attention-grabbing lightbox message on your website homepage, that pops up on
Comic Book Store Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
On Tuesday, October 5, Sherry and Tim Deel welcomed the Chamber in for a ribbon cutting at All Things Geeky by 2 Nerds, a place they have lovingly dubbed “not your average comic book store.” This store has earned itself a cult following that stretches across the United States, all because Sherry and Tim took their love of Comic Con and brought it to Marion. All Things Geeky by 2 Nerds has been open for a little more than a year. Sherry and Tim are not from Marion originally, but they feel very at home
Will Biden's $600 IRS Tracking Affect Small Business?
Should the IRS be allowed to track transactions – business and personal – of more than $600? That proposal was part of the current $3.5 billion bill put forth by the Biden administration, but it was removed. That doesn’t mean it is gone for good. Biden Wants IRS to Track Transactions Over $600 Under the existing Currency Transaction Report, banks, credit unions and other financial institutions are required to report transactions of more than $10,000 to the IRS. The Biden administration wanted to lower
Carolinas Blue Ridge HealthCare Now UNC Health
Blue Ridge HealthCare Finalizes Agreement with UNC Health Partnership strengthens rural healthcare, expands access to specialty services for the Mountain Region MORGANTON, N.C. / CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (October 7, 2021) – The leadership from Blue Ridge HealthCare and UNC Health today announced that the organizations have finalized a comprehensive Management Services Agreement. This partnership with UNC Health allows Blue Ridge to strengthen rural healthcare throughout the Mountain Region while moving toward
Can Your Business Benefit From A Public-Private Partnership?
Topic: Small Business Resources for Preparedness, Relief, Recovery, and ResiliencyDescription: The Small Business Administration (SBA) & Public Private Strategies Institute (PPSI) are providing educational opportunities for you to learn more about programs that will help your business get back on track. These sessions will take place every two weeks, starting next week and running through December 2021. This is part of an effort to ensure that American small businesses know about the many resources to
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Marion Hot Wheelz Celebrates Expansion of Arcade
On Tuesday, August 17th, 2021, local business owners Steve and Tiffany Bush welcomed friends, family, and various familiar faces to Marion Hot Wheelz to celebrate their skating rink and newly expanded arcade. It is a scary thing to open a business, but it came with much more uncertainty for Steve and Tiffany. Marion Hot Wheelz celebrated their grand opening at the end of 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic was still causing shut downs and mask mandates. That didn’t stop Steve and Tiffany, from cautiously
IRS Provides Tax Relief for NC Victims of Tropical Storm Fred
On Friday, September 10, 2021, the IRS announced it will provide tax relief for North Carolina victims of Tropical Storm Fred. The relief allows for the postponement of certain tax-filing and tax-payment deadlines for taxpayers in certain counties. Remnants of Tropical Storm Fred devastated parts of WNC on August 17, 2021, prompting a federal disaster declaration, and in turn, Friday’s IRS announcement. According to the IRS announcement, affected taxpayers are individuals who live in and own businesses in
Member Monday-A New Era of Education
Ushering In A New Era—McDowell Technical Community College By Tina M. Wolfe The last two years have ushered in a wellspring of change and innovation at every level. No where in McDowell has this been more evident than at McDowell Technical Community College (MTCC) where new buildings, new programs, new leadership, and new energy are burgeoning with possibilities. The pandemic provided individuals, organizations, and businesses an opportunity for introspective, strategic work—a chance to grow and learn.
Red Cross Announces Blood Drive Dates
News Release Contact: Gail Barksdale/Account Manager/American Red Cross/(828) 676-7811 Support cancer patients by donating blood Marion, NC, September 2021 — Cancer patients may need blood products during chemotherapy, surgery or treatment for complications. More than 1.7 million new cases of cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. this year, according to the American Cancer Society. Donated blood is a lifesaving gift most healthy people can give. The community is
Mission Hospital McDowell to Expand
New tower to add 11 additional beds and space to meet future community needs Marion, N.C. (August 13, 2021) – Mission Health is proud to announce the expansion of Mission Hospital McDowell. With $20 Million in funding from HCA Healthcare, the expansion of our current state-of-the-art facility in McDowell will ensure the continued support of the healthcare needs of our community. “Mission Hospital McDowell was designed to serve this community’s unique and growing healthcare needs and this expansion will
The Fruit of Her Hands Boutique Celebrates Grand Opening
On Thursday, July 29th, 2021, Kristy Smith welcomed friends, family, fellow business owners, and local officials into The Fruit of Her Hands Boutique, Marion’s newest women’s boutique in the Larry D. Miller Business Complex. Before opening her storefront, life looked very different for Kristy: when she left her job at Marion DDS, she began doing retail sales from home. When that took off, she purchased a trailer to sell clothes out of and after four years, an opportunity came up for her to open a
Chamber Partners with Local Business to Support Operation Backpack
For the third year, Robertson Packaging Supply, Inc., stepped up to support Operation Backpack, a McDowell County Schools project. Owners Brandon and Sarah Whitson were excited to once again partner with the Chamber and impact the local school-aged children and classrooms. The team at RPSI worked diligently with Melanie Duncan, project coordinator, to identify and locate hard-to-find items. On Tuesday, August 3rd, RPSI delivered $1,211 in supplies to McDowell County Schools, including 144 toothbrushes
PPP Loan Forgiveness
Did you receive a Paycheck Protection Program loan? You may be eligible for loan forgiveness. Follow the four steps below.Contact your lender and complete the correct formCompile documentationSubmit the forgiveness form and documentation to your lenderCommunicate with your lender throughout the process Learn more
Chamber Launches UTV Raffle To Fund Local Scholarships
UPDATE, SEPTEMBER 14, 2021—THE DRAWING FOR THE UTV HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR JANUARY 15, 2022 IN LIGHT OF THE CANCELATION OF THE BIGFOOT FESTIVAL. TICKET HOLDERS HAVE THE SAME CHANCE TO WIN AS NO NEW TICKETS WILL BE PRINTED! SO HOLD ON TO THOSE TICKETS AND KEEP THEM IN A SAFE PLACE. The McDowell Chamber of Commerce is eager to offer a top-of-the-line UTV in its 2021 Bigfoot Raffle fundraiser. Ticket sales go to fund scholarships for the Chamber's Student LINC (Leadership, Involvement, Networking, and
Old Fort Steers Its Resurgence Forward
Change is inevitable. In the last few years we've all seen plenty of change sweep through our communities. Getting ahead of that change and helping to steer it in a healthy and sustainable direction is what the people of Old Fort are doing. The town has been attractive to Asheville's overflow for some time now. Seeing the possibility for growth, jobs, and all the benefits that come along with that, a unique coalition has been working hand-in-hand to guide and influence this small towns resurgence.
Member Monday: Painter's Greenhouse
By Tina M. Wolfe To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow—Audrey Hepburn Growth requires patience and great intention; just ask Dana Owen, the owner, along with her parents Deenie and Brad Owen, of Painter’s Greenhouse in Old Fort. The size alone is enough to get any greenie excited. When I learned that the Owens work year round to start, sow, and grow more than 1,000 species and varieties of plants covering more than 100K square feet of space, my respect for their knowledge, perseverance, and
McDowell Chamber Presents $4,000 In Scholarships Awards
McDowell Chamber Executive Director Kim Effler was proud to present $4,000 in scholarships to two deserving McDowell County students as part of the organization's Student LINC leadership program on June 6, 2021. Recipients included Raul Lopez Torres who will be attending North Carolina State University's College of Design in the fall and Thomas Moomaw who will be pursuing a degree in Cyber Security at UNC Chapel Hill. Torres was awarded $3,000 toward his educational dream of attaining a degree in
Small Business Tax Credit Programs
The American Rescue Plan extends a number of critical tax benefits, particularly the Employee Retention Credit and Paid Leave Credit, to small businesses. The Employee Retention Credit The America Rescue Plan extends the availability of the Employee Retention Credit for small Businesses through December 2021 and allows businesses to offset their current payroll tax liabilities by up to $7,000 per employee per quarter. This credit of up to $28,000 per employee for 2021 is available to small businesses who
Rejuvenation Destination Ribbon Cutting
On Tuesday, May 27th, folks gathered at Rejuvenation Destination on West Henderson St. in Marion to celebrate Samantha Keith’s business with a ribbon cutting. Rejuvenation Destination offers a variety of services including therapeutic massage, hot or cold stone massage, couples massage, and more. Owner Samantha Keith is proud to offer various massage options for customers. Located at 139 West Henderson Street, Rejuvenation Destination is a one-stop shop for relaxation and self-care. Samantha’s staff
Johnson Price Sprinkle (JPS) Named One of 2021 Best Employers in N.C
Marion, NC -Johnson Price Sprinkle (JPS) has been named one of 2021 Best Employers in North Carolina. The newly published list honors businesses throughout the state identified through a two-part selection process created by Business North Carolina and Best Companies Group. JPS was one of two businesses selected from Western North Carolina in the small employer category (15-49 employees). In this category, the firm ranked ninth of the fifteen statewide businesses identified. A total of 56 companies were
New Substance Abuse Clinic Opens in Marion
On Tuesday, May 18, community leaders gathered at Marion’s newest group therapy and substance abuse clinic for a ribbon cutting. Today and Tomorrow: PHP (People Helping People) works to help people through individual counseling, group therapy, substance abuse intensive outpatient programs, marriage and family counseling, and much more. Community leaders present at the ribbon cutting included Mayor Steve Little, McDowell Chamber Executive Director Kim Effler, Marketing and Communications Director for
Chamber Meets Representative Dudley Greene on Staffing Issues
May 28, 2021, McDowell, NC—The McDowell Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Kim Effler and staff met with North Carolina Representative Dudley Greene to discuss the issue of staffing on behalf of its members on Friday, May 28, 2021. "After hearing from many of our members who expressed concern regarding staffing issues in their businesses, we conducted a survey to get some hard data from which to work," said Effler. Ten out of the 24 respondents said they were experiencing above average problems not
Fire and Ice Shines Brightly
By Tina M. Wolfe It was the summer of 1976 in a typical American town of Pennsylvania. Young Frank Nederostek, the only child of hard-working, first-generation Americans, had a decision to make. Like every other graduating senior in history, he needed to figure out what he was going to do after school. His father, taking his parental duties to heart, took young Frank with him to the cement mill where he had spent his entire career. “I’ll never forget those days,” recalls Frank, owner of Fire and Ice
New Medical Clinic Opens in Marion
On Tuesday, May 4, community members, local officials, and patients of Dr. Kelli Banner gathered at Marion Medical Clinic for a ribbon cutting. Located at 6 E. Medical Ct., Suite 1, in Marion, this new clinic has been a labor of love for Dr. Banner. Kelli Banner has been a nurse practitioner since 2015 and worked with Family Care for 3 years, most recently in Old Fort. Dr. Banner made the decision to move to Marion’s medical park after finding office space in Marion, rather than Old Fort as she had
SBA Receives 186,200 RRF Applications
The SBA began accepting applications for the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) on Monday, May 3. In the first two days of the RRF application window, the SBA has received: 186,200 applications from restaurants, bars, and other eligible businesses in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and five U.S. Territories. 97,600 applications of which came from restaurants, bars, and other eligible businesses owned and controlled by women (46,400), veterans (4,200), socially and economically disadvantaged individuals
Outdoor Businesses Return With A Vengeance in First Quarter; Is Your Business Ready for Growth?
"A year after the pandemic decimated their top and bottom lines, publicly traded outdoor companies are posting blowout quarters to begin 2021," a recent report from the Outdoor Industry Association reports. This is great news for McDowell County as we move forward with investing and enhancing our own outdoor economy including the Fonta Flora State Trail and Old Fort G5 Trail Collective. According to the reports, most companies saw revenue gains in the double digits and are experiencing favorable comps for
Member Monday: Switzerland Inn
The Lure Of The Mountain Retreat by: Tina M. Wolfe The relentless rain had thankfully taken a break, giving way to glorious sunshine as I made my way up the mountain to Switzerland Inn. I was excited to visit this treasured community icon that has been hosting summer travelers for 110 years. Cresting the top of U.S Highway 221, I rolled down the windows as I turned onto the Blue Ridge Parkway soaking in the cool breeze and relaxing sounds of nature. It’s no wonder this haven in the Appalachians
Babe's Floral Design - Ribbon Cutting
On Tuesday, April 6, Babe’s Floral Design celebrated their opening in Old Fort with a ribbon cutting. Owners Lynn Lewis and Sunny Lorber were surrounded by friends, family, local officials, Chamber staff, business owners, and familiar faces in Old Fort. Lynn Lewis transformed the garage of her family home into a flower shop. The home has been a part of her family since the 1940s, and she was excited to bring a flower shop to Old Fort. One unique aspect of Babe’s Floral Design is their tuxedo rental,
American Rescue Plan Act of 2021
American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 Upon President Biden signing the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 into law, the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Senior Advisor Michael Roth stated: “The American Rescue Plan Act enables the SBA to continue to lift up the cornerstones of our communities; the mom-and-pop businesses and nonprofits that provide essential services for our everyday lives, hire from within neighborhoods, and more. Our nation’s more than 30 million small businesses are the economic engine of
U.S. Congressman Madison Cawthorn Joins Local Broadband Discussion
Monday, March 29, 2019, McDowell County, NC—Rep. Madison Cawthorn (NC-11) joined a panel of McDowell County officials and Rep. Dudley Greene (NC-85) on McDowell Matters Podcast Monday, March 29, 2021 to address rural broadband and learn what McDowell County is doing to advance access for all.Rep. Cawthorn (NC-11), who prioritized broadband access for North Carolina during his campaign, heard from Connect McDowell board member Keith Buchanan, McDowell County Commissioner Brenda Vaughn, and Rep. Dudley
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper Eases Capacity and Operating Restrictions Across the State
Governor Cooper announced that North Carolina will relax some COVID-19 restrictions. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper signed Executive Order No. 204 that will take effect March 26 at 5 pm and is set to expire April 30 at 5 pm. The Executive Order (No. 204) will increase the number of people who may gather indoors from 25 to 50 people and the number of people gathered outdoors from 50 to 100. The Order also fully lifts the restriction on the late-night sale and service of alcoholic beverages on bars,
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McDowell Strong Awards
As the word normal morphed into new meanings for all of us across the nation in 2020, McDowell businesses and residents rose to the challenge. When Zoom no longer meant a fast car, residents, businesses, schools, and organizations shifted gears adapting to rapid-fire changes in order to keep McDowell County strong, healthy, and resilient. The McDowell Chamber of Commerce dedicated its traditional Annual Banquet to honor those in our community that exhibited strength, fortitude, acuity, compassion, and
T-Shirt Tuesday Member Promotion A Smash Hit
As way to help promote our members, Member Engagement specialist Emma Mathews created T-Shirt Tuesday. This simple, but incredibly effective promotion is getting businesses noticed and talking. Posts like the one here reached more than 1.7K viewers, was shared more than 10 times and more thank 242 people liked, loved, or commented. The concept is simple, we wear your company's branded T-shirt on Tuesdays and as we go about our day, we visit other businesses, grocery stores, tire stores, restaurants, etc.
McDowell Matters Podcast to Feature Cawthorn, Greene on Rural Broadband Issues
Much has been written on the great Digital Divide, but what exactly is it? In my upcoming podcast on McDowell Matters, we'll dive into what it means, how it hurts rural communities, and what's being done to bridge the access gap. Joining me for the conversation will be Rep. Dudley Greene-R, Rep. Madison Cawthorn-R, McDowell County commissioners Patrick Ellis and Brenda Vaughn, and Connect McDowell board member Keith Buchanan. The broadband episode will air on April 1, 2021, a day Buchanan is looking to get
Free Books on Retirement Planning and Distribution
Retirement has changed as should the way you save. In my over 28 years of experience helping people plan for and implement retirement planning strategies, I have seen my fair share of changes. With the current, almost 28 trillion debt and the looming tax increase in 2026 rethinking how you save for retirement and how you take distributions from your retirement plans is critical to your retirement success. To help, I have two books that can help you both written by financial leader and author Martin H. Ruby,
MHM Awarded Best Place To Have A Baby!
Mission Hospital McDowell has been recognized for the second year in a row by Newsweek as a 2021 Best Maternity Hospital. The designation said hospital CEO Carol Wolfenbarger, " ... is a testimony to the continued compassionate and expert care that our obstetric and pediatric providers deliver consistently to our patients partnered with the excellence in nursing care provided by our Birth Center team." Nancy Cooper, editor of Newsweek, notes that “this designation means your maternity care program is
Member Monday-Transworld Systems, Inc
Arthur Parks, Transworld Systems, Inc. By Tina M. Wolfe What makes a successful man? Is it his magnetic demeanor pulling energy from the room as he enters? Is it his noble character, or quiet demeanor that makes others spill out their troubles to a trustworthy soul? While greatness can mean many things to many people, we all seem to recognize magnanimity. In a recent sit-down with Marion native and business leader Arthur Parks, I couldn’t help but notice a unique character combination that played out
PPP Reminder from the SBA
Friendly reminder! The SBA has re-opened the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan portal to all participating PPP lenders. PPP provides loans to help businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. SBA is currently offering: First Draw PPP loans- for those borrowers who have not received a PPP loan before August 8, 2020. Second Draw PPP loans- for eligible small businesses with 300 employees or less and that previously received a First Draw PPP loan. These borrowers
Member Monday: Robertson Packaging Supply, Inc.
By Tina M. Wolfe Keeping a business running smoothly requires consistent attention to every aspect of that business. From the meticulous care of financial budgets and margins to the personal attention and service to customers, business owners are multi-talented, ambitious, and assiduous creators and problem-solvers. Actualizing success becomes a bit easier when you have a dream team with equal but opposite skill sets working together. Brandon and Sarah Whitson are the personal and professional partners
Goodwill Receives Largest Investment in its 94-Year History
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 18, 2020 Goodwill® Receives Largest Investment in Its 94-Year History to Help Americans Get Back to Work (Winston-Salem, NC) – Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina, Inc. announced a $10 million donation from author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott – the largest donation received in the organization’s 94-year history. With 10.7 million Americans unemployed and in urgent need of work, this investment will enable Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina to
Chamber Launches Podcast to Promote Members
RELEASE DATE: December 29, 2020 The McDowell County Chamber has launched its own podcast, adding another venue in which to promote its members and expand their reach. McDowell Matters Podcast launched in coordination with local business owner Onee Pressley of Pressley Made in December to highlight 10 magnanimous women entrepreneurs with Women to the Power of 10. In partnership with AuMedia, LLC the Chamber produced 5 episodes in a one-day session at Pressley Made. We wanted to create a way to share the
New Tools for Women Business Owners
Please join SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza on thursday, January 7 at 1 p.m. for the ground-breaking launch of Ascent, the online digital learning platform for women small business owners. Ascent is the first-of-its-kind online resource specifically designed to help the nearly 10 million American women entrepreneurs grow and scale their small business. This virtual event will include discussion panels with real women entrepreneurs, success stories leaders, and a take a look into how the Ascent platform
The Healing Power of Science and Nature
SUWS of the Carolinas Old Fort, North Carolina BY TINA M. WOLFE On any given day, deep in the pith of the Pisgah National Forest in Old Fort, new stories are unfolding. Stories of discovery and healing. Stories set not to the world’s crash-and-burn pace but rather nature’s gentle rhythm. Each year, SUWS of the Carolinas welcomes in a cadre of angst-ridden, emotionally overwhelmed, and sometimes angry youth. Adolescents are struggling to keep pace mentally and emotionally with the
Nine to Know
The fear of running out of money in retirement is listed as the greatest concern in retirement. It is easy to understand as the variables are many. Inflation, taxes, the solvency of Social Security, and the fluctuation of the stock market. Having a plan is critical to your success. Most people have a portfolio of investments, but what I want to help with is a plan that helps you understand how to best minimize the risks of each of the listed above. I have a new program that gives you a benchmark of where
Member Monday-Marion Pharmacy
Threaded through the fabric of America’s Main Streets are the hearts and dreams of families much like the Marion Pharmacy Family. Opened in April of 1962 by pharmacist Bill Howle, this mountain cornerstone of American tenacity and ingenuity has been caring for the health and well-being of generations of McDowell residents for 58 years. Bill, who passed in April of 2010, set the standard of care and service that continues today. He invested as much in the relationships with customers as he did in
A Family Legacy Continues
Mountain Stream RV ParkBy Tina M. WolfeDEEP ROOTS What is it about a place that gives us a sense of belonging? Is it because we were born there? Is it because we hold deep ancestral roots or even that its beauty and sense of simplicity speaks to our nature? For Jim Gibson and his family, it’s all of the above. Although born in Charlotte, Gibson can trace his McDowell roots back three generations. He along with his sons-in-law Tyler Mace and Austin Brooks purchased the Mountain Stream RV Park in December
Old Fort Chamber Merges with McDowell Chamber
In July of 2020, the Old Fort Chamber of Commerce officially merged with the McDowell Chamber of Commerce creating a united effort to support and promote the businesses all across the county. "Prior to the merger, the McDowell Chamber respected the jurisdiction of the Old Fort Chamber, while still serving our members there," said incoming Executive Director Kim Effler. "We are now better positioned to address the business needs of the whole county." Effler previously served as the volunteer director for
Mission Hospital McDowell's Maternity Ward Recognized Nationally
Mission Hospital McDowell was recently named to Newsweek’s 2020 list of Best Maternity Care Hospitals. The distinction recognizes facilities that have excelled in providing care to mothers, newborns and their families. “This is recognition is a testament to all of the outstanding caregivers and staff at Mission Hospital McDowell. I am truly grateful for our amazing Maternity Services team and the excellent care they provide for the communities we serve,” said Carol Wolfenbarger, CEO of Mission Hospital
Chamber Announces Leadership Change
Immediate Release Contact: Carol Wolfenbarger Phone: 828.652.4240 (Marion, NC) The McDowell Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced that Kimberly Effler will be succeeding Steve Bush as the organization’s next executive director, effective October 1, 2020. Steve Bush, who has served the McDowell County Chamber of Commerce since 2013 expressed a desire to transition from this leadership role in
Member Monday: Lake James Antique Mall
HOSPITALITY AMONG TREASURED FINDS AT ANTIQUE MALL By Tina M. Wolfe AUGUST 2020Amid rapid-fire change and anxiety-inducing unknowns, there is something oddly comforting meandering through the aisles of Dixie Matthew's 30K-square-foot Lake James Antique Mall, located just off I-40 at exit 90. Set up in individually designed booths, 38 passionate vendors artfully display their antiques and vintage collectables. Each booth invites guests on a wistful trek through yesteryear to the comforts and smells of
MEMBER MONDAY-THE SCIENCE OF NATURE
By Tina M. Wolfe The Science of Nature In an unassuming building on U.S. Hwy. 221 N there have occurred what some call miracles. People that have entered its doors have been transformed and have become true believers. This, however, isn’t a religious organization. No, in fact, the business, Earth Heart, is all about the Science of Nature! Co-owners Debra Richardson and Cindy Conner are trained and educated in the science of natural and herbal remedies, alternative health products, and nature’s
Member Monday: VOD Tactical
VOD TACTICAL—FRANK & RHONDA SEAMAN Tucked away in the time-worn mountains of the Blue Ridge range sits a plot of land that holds the hearts and history of Frank Seaman and his wife Rhonda. Named Manoah, the 134-acre farm stretches across the foothills of Old Fort and is home to their business, Virtue Of Defense Tactical or VOD Tactical, a not-so-typical firing range. The land has had many incarnations and has been in Rhonda’s family dating back to the original land grants from King George III. Its name
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