News
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
SBA PPP Forgiveness Webinar
On Wednesday, October 21, 2020, join North Carolina District Director Thomas A. Stith III and members of the North Carolina District Office for Let’s Talk Business: Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Forgiveness. The webinar will focus on PPP forgiveness with topics to include: Downloading the PPP Loan applicationWhat documents to have readySole proprietor, partnerships, LLC’s, and C&S Corp optionsIdentify which PPP Loan forgiveness application is right for youHow to fill out the applicationSafe Harbors
SBA & Treasury Announce Simpler PPP Forgiveness
WASHINGTON—The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Treasury Department, today released a simpler loan forgiveness application for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans of $50,000 or less. This action streamlines the PPP forgiveness process to provide financial and administrative relief to America’s smallest businesses while also ensuring sound stewardship of taxpayer dollars. “The PPP has provided 5.2 million loans worth $525 billion to American small businesses, providing
Celebrating Hispanic Entrepreneurs' Growth, Resilience
By Jovita Carranza on October 07, 2020Category: SBA News and ViewsThe Nation's 3.3 million Hispanic-owned small businesses generate $474 billion in annual sales. As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, many people are talking about the remarkable contributions of 60 million Hispanic Americans. Few people, however, can say they have done as much to propel this community – my community – forward as President Donald Trump.As the first Latina to serve in a Republican President’s Cabinet, I am proud
Veteran Owned Groomer Opens in Old Fort
On Thursday, October 2nd, local community members, chamber ambassadors, loyal customers and many others gathered to celebrate the ribbon cutting ceremony at Southern Paws Grooming in Old Fort. Owners Rose and John Catanzaro were proud to share their beautiful salon and pet boutique with those in attendance, and their excitement to be open and part of the local community was palpable. Southern Paws is a certified AKE and SAFE salon, and they are a Veteran owned business. Rose and John take great pride in
North Carolina Moves to Phase 3
On Friday, October 2nd, Governor Cooper announced per Executive Order 169, North Carolina will be moving into Phase 3, effective until at least 5pm on October 23, 2020. For additional information and frequently asked questions, click link below.Click Here
Duke Energy Offers Assistance to Businesses
Businesses facing financial hardship can qualify for new extended payment plans to catch-up on balances accumulated during the COVID-19 disconnection suspension. Restarting the economy is more important than ever, and no customer on a payment plan who remains current on that plan will be disconnected. It is important that they contact us as soon as possible to enroll in this program.Click Here for More Details!
Health-Sharing Ministries. OneShare stands above the rest.
For more than 4 years I have been providing consulting services on many of the health sharing ministries. For those of you that are unaware of these plans, they are a very affordable option for healthcare for those who are a good fit. There are many types of plans from basic and I mean basic plans that cost under $100 a month to those that resemble most major medical plans. Now it is very important to understand that these plans are not insurance. They pool money to meet the medical obligations stated in
Bagwell and Kincaid Merger Expands Product Options
Bagwell Insurance Agency and Jeff Kincaid Insurance Group have merged into one location to create an insurance center with more than 60 years of combined experience. Jeff Kincaid started his insurance career in Hickory in 1990 and has obtained many prestigious national awards including the Champion Award. His ability to adapt to the many changes in the industry as well as his vision as a business owner have allowed him to add locations in Morganton, Shelby, Forest City and Marion. He prides himself on
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Marion Dental Welcomes New Dentist
We are pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Dylan K. Hall to Marion Family Dental. Dr Hall will be joining our team, Monday, September 14, 2020. He is excited to meet our amazing patients. Dr. Hall comes to us from Lumberton, TX. He received a bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in chemistry before attending the University of Louisville School of Dentistry where he earned his DMD. While an undergraduate, Dr. Hall set three collegiate football records, which he still holds, during his four
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
Chamber Partners with Local Business to Support Operation Backpack
For the second year, Robertson Packaging Supply, Inc., stepped up to support Operation Backpack. Owners Brandon & Sarah Whitson didn't hesitate to partner with the Chamber once again. Their team worked diligently to locate supplies difficult for the school to find. On Wednesday, August 12th, RPSI, an industrial supply distributor, delivered $1,000 in supplies to Melanie Dunham, project coordinator for Operation Backpack. Donations are accepted year-round. Monetary donations may be written to The Endowment
New Dance & Movement Studio Opens
On Saturday, September 12, 2020, one of Marion’s newest businesses drew an intimate crowd of supporters to celebrate a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the McDowell Chamber of Commerce. The Above the Barre Dance and Gymnastic Academy, located in the new Larry D. Miller Business Complex, is a much-desired addition to the community. “Amazing dancers and gymnasts are being created, but … more importantly, amazing humans are being created here at Above the Barre,” said owner Erin Nanney, who expressed
Updates On Payroll Tax Exempt Rules
In response to Congress’ delay in providing additional relief in the wake of COVID-19’s economic impacts, on August 8, 2020, President Trump issued an executive order to the Department of Treasury to allow deferral of employee Social Security (SS) taxes. The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized under Section 7508A of the Internal Revenue Code to defer certain payroll tax obligations. No matter the size of a business, each employee’s compensation is subject to various withholdings, including SS, which is
McDowell County Keeps Bigfoot’s Spirit Alive
Bigfoot Scavenger Hunt, Specials planned throughout September The McDowell Tourism Development Authority, McDowell Chamber of Commerce, Marion Business Association and City of Marion have come together to create a way visitors and locals alike can celebrate Sasquatch, maintain a safe social distance and enjoy the month of September, when the WNC Bigfoot Festival was originally scheduled to be held. Starting on Monday, September 14, 2020 and continuing through the end of September, visitors can participate
Save on Health Benefits for Your Business
Any business that is a Chamber of Commerce member in Western North Carolina can get a discount on the monthly costs of Aetna Funding Advantage. Ready to save money on your company's health benefits? Aetna Funding Advantage makes it simple. It offers:up to 25% savings on monthly costs compared to ACA premium rates*;the long-term potential of surplus sharing;a digital administration and enrollment platform;wellness activated by Attain by AetnaSM app and Peerfit fitness classes; and more!And now, Aetna has
North Carolina Prepares Coronavirus Grants for Local Communities
$28 million in aid available for COVID-19 responseRaleigh, N.C. - This week, Governor Roy Cooper announced the State of North Carolina will provide $28 million to local governments and communities in their response to the economic and public health impacts of COVID-19 through the Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus (CDBG-CV) program. The program will be funded through the CARES Act by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to support North Carolina’s ongoing effort to fight
IRS Issues Guidance on Deferral of Employee Tax Withholding
In response to Congress’ delay in providing additional relief in the wake of COVID-19’s economic impacts, on August 8, 2020, President Trump issued an executive order to the Department of Treasury to allow deferral of employee Social Security (SS) taxes. The Secretary of the Treasury is authorized under Section 7508A of the Internal Revenue Code to defer certain payroll tax obligations. No matter the size of a business, each employee’s compensation is subject to various withholdings, including SS, which is
Free Business Counseling
Free One-On-One Marketing, Financial and Business Planning Offered to Small Businesses Are you struggling with marketing, cash flow, personnel or employee training? The McDowell Tech Small Business Center (SBC) can provide FREE assistance to you. Current program clients have received: website, Quickbooks and Google Analytics training. Wonder if the help you need is covered by this program? Call SBC at 652-0634 to reserve a time for your FREE business consultation. This is available for a limited time
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Favorite Local Deli Makes Its Move
McDowell's favorite sandwich shop, Holly's Deli & Desserts, is making its big move this weekend to its new location (the old Fatz Cafe building) offering expanded seating, brand new recipes, full bar, and evening hours. Owners Jennifer and Jon Hartman have dreamed about expanding their deli to a full-service restaurant for quite a while and have been working hard for months preparing the space to welcome loyal customers with the same great service and products that have garnered top awards each
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
Seven Steps to Recession-Proof Your Small Business
Blame Covid-19: the US officially entered a recession in February. I suspect that’s not news to you and your small business, as small businesses have been on the front line of this downturn, struggling to survive. In fact, since the shut-down, it’s estimated that over 100,000 small businesses have closed their doors for good. I don’t want you to be one of them, so here are ways to help "recession-proof" your small business.1.Get the word out to "shop small, shop local." In response to Covid, customers want
Our PPE Story
Grateful to Help Kitsbow was invited to Washington DC to testify in Congress on the issues of small businesses struggling to survive in the Pandemic. The House Committee on Small Business is considering policy to help small businesses and help the country be better prepared for pandemics. Our CEO David Billstrom testified on the lessons Kitsbow learned in the last 100 days making PPE, and a bit about how we did it. David stated that, "The opportunity to testify in Congress was quite meaningful to those of
New Coffee Shop Opens in Old Fort
On Monday, June 15, 2020, one of Old Fort’s newest businesses drew an intimate crowd of supporters to celebrate a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the McDowell Chamber of Commerce. The Mill Creek Mug, located in the former Parker Hosiery building, is a much desired addition to the Town of Old Fort. “We are excited to provide a hometown coffee shop,” said owner Amy Parker, who expressed gratitude to the entire group in attendance. Local dignitaries and community supporters were on hand to express their
Revised Loan Forgiveness Application & Guidance
Last week, the SBA released a revised PPP loan forgiveness application and a new EZ application as well as provided further guidance on employee and owner compensation calculations in the PPP Flexibility Act. Both applications allow borrowers who were assigned a loan number by the SBA on or before June 5th to choose between an 8-week or 24-week expenditure time frame to qualify for loan forgiveness. Those assigned a loan number after June 5th must use a 24-week period. EZ PPP Loan Forgiveness
Help Remains For Small Businesses
Now is the time to take action for your small business. Deadlines are nearing and opportunities will come to a close for funding to assist in recovery efforts. The time is now to take action. Consider the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL) for your recovery efforts. Please note that PPP will close on June 30th. The Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Advance application portal is now open to all eligible small businesses, non-profits, and
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
Free Help For Local Small Businesses
Opportunity for Free One-on-One Small Business Counseling Are you struggling with marketing, cash flow, personnel or employee training? The McDowell Tech Small Business Center (SBC) can provide FREE assistance to you. Call SBC to reserve a time for your business consultation. This is available for a limited time only.Click Here for More Info! Frank Silver Director of Small Business Center McDowell Technical Community College 828-652-0634
Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act
Joint Statement by SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin Regarding Enactment of the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza and U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin issued the following statement today following the enactment of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Flexibility Act: “We want to thank President Trump for his leadership and commend Leader McConnell, Leader Schumer, Speaker Pelosi, and Leader McCarthy for
PPP Amendment Details
May 28, 2020, the House of Representatives near-unanimously (417-1) passed HR 7010, the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act. It is uncertain if the Senate will pass these measures, though there are clear indications of bipartisan support to relax the current terms of the PPP loan program. Here are the key changes proposed in this bill: Extend the loan application deadline from June 30 to December 31, 2020.For new loans, the minimum loan term would be 5 years instead of the current 2-year term. For
House Passes Bill Amending PPP Program
May 28, 2020, the House of Representatives near-unanimously (417-1) passed HR 7010, the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act. It is uncertain if the Senate will pass these measures, though there are clear indications of bipartisan support to relax the current terms of the PPP loan program. Here are the key changes proposed in this bill: Extend the loan application deadline from June 30 to December 31, 2020.For new loans, the minimum loan term would be 5 years instead of the current 2-year term. For
SBA Releases Loan Forgiveness Application & Tools
SBA Paycheck Protection Program Loan Forgiveness Application The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the U.S Department of the Treasury, released the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan Forgiveness Application and detailed instructions for the application. The form and instructions inform borrowers how to apply for forgiveness of their PPP loans, consistent with the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). SBA will also soon issue regulations and guidance
Rural Forward Uncovers Additional Assistance For Struggling Businesses
Rural Forward North Carolina has been digging to find other funding and assistance options for our small businesses struggling to stay afloat. Aside from the federal assistance provided through the EIDL and PPP monies, RFNC has come up with this list that offers grants, free legal services, and more. GRANT: NC Local News Lab Fund Grant. “General operating grants of up to $30,000 to 501c3 public charity non-profit entities that serve North Carolina residents and their rapidly evolving information needs.
SBA Webinar On PPP
SBA North Carolina District Paycheck Protection Program Webinar On Thursday, May 7, 2020, you are invited to join us for a webinar to discuss Small Business Guidance and Loan Resources as part of SBA’s response to the COVID-19 disaster. The webinar will focus on the Paycheck Protection Program and will review eligibility, the application process, loan use, current results, and more. PPP funds are still available so be sure to join the North Carolina District Office for this presentation with a question
Employer Group Health Insurance Ending - OPTIONS AVAILABLE
If you are not eligible for subsidies through the Healthcare.gov - Thrive Insurance Solutions has many options available to consider that is affordable. Contact us at 828.442.9681 or thriveinsolutions@gmail.com We are located at the "Creekside Wellness Center" 551 Burma Road West - Marion, NC
NC Unemployment Insurance Information Update
April 27, 2020 MARION NC—The North Carolina Division of Employment Security is providing the following guidance to help people understand the impacts of the COVID-19 coronavirus on unemployment insurance benefits. Before you file a claim …The fastest and most efficient way to apply for unemployment benefits is to create an online account and file online at des.nc.gov. If you’re temporarily out of work or your working hours have been reduced due to COVID-19, choose ‘coronavirus’ as your reason for
North Carolina PPP Payouts by The Numbers
Paycheck Protection Program: NC Approved Loans and Dollars On April 3, 2020, SBA approved lenders were able to start processing loan applications under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The PPP is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. The SBA will forgive these loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. As of April 13, 2020, more than 1
Review & Compare Loan Options With Easy Chart
We've heard the concern: There is so much information! The CARES Act is more than 800 pages long and it seems that new information comes out on loan assistance programs daily. It can be overwhelming when you are trying to decide what options are best suited to your business model. We found this helpful guide that compares the different relief loans available to businesses during this COVID-19 crisis. Paychex, a payroll and human resource company, has put out a handy tool that presents all the options and
Facebook Live: Loan Options Explained
Watch the McDowell Chamber's Facebook page for a live event featuring local financial professionals presenting key points of the Emergency Injury Disaster Loan and the Paycheck Protection Program loan. We'll be covering the pros and cons of each, walk through the application process, and have a Q&A session to wrap things up. The Facebook Live event will be at 10 a.m. Friday, April 3, 2020 at https://www.facebook.com/myhometownchamber/. The City of Marion, the Marion Business Association, and the
SBA Loans & PPP Loans Town Hall Zoom Now Available Online
The Chamber of Commerce hosted SBA Regional Director Sharon K. Harvey in an online Town Hall Meeting for members and residents of McDowell County on Tuesday, March 30, 2020. More than 50 people attended to learn about the emergency funding options available through the SBA and any details on the new Paycheck Protection Program that was part of the recently approved CARES Act. The SBA has been working on handling the thousands of applications coming in from every state and have a new site link and a more
Federal Rerserve Programs Enhance Liquidity and Flow of Credit
WASHINGTON – The spread of coronavirus has disrupted economic activity and put significant liquidity pressure on U.S. businesses. To immediately enhance liquidity and support American workers, households, and businesses through this challenging period, U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin today authorized the expansion of two recently launched facilities and the establishment of three new facilities to provide liquidity to the financial system pursuant to section 13(3) of the Federal Reserve
Internet Providers Roll Out Assistance Programs
McDowell County-Report submitted by Chris Revis, Connect McDowell Co-founder As we experience this unprecedented need for internet access during the COVID-19 crisis, here are the resources that we have confirmed are available for our members and the community at large. Verizon Wireless:Verizon is offering multiple programs and accommodations for customers during the COVID-19 crisis. These include additional data allowances at no charge and other late. Please click for more
Treasury, IRS, and Labor Announce Plan to Implement Coronavirus-related Paid Leave for Workers
WASHINGTON – This week the U.S. Treasury Department, Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the U.S. Department of Labor (Labor) announced that small and midsize employers can begin taking advantage of two new refundable payroll tax credits, designed to immediately and fully reimburse them, dollar-for-dollar, for the cost of providing Coronavirus-related leave to their employees. This relief to employees and small and midsize businesses is provided under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (Act),
Watch the TSI Difference
You deserve to get paid. Since 1970, TSI has been helping businesses of all sizes with their accounts receivable management. I have been helping clients maintain cash flow since 1987. Our first party, third party, and late stage collections services provide the right solution at the right time, while our industry-leading focus on data analytics, compliance, and cyber security ensure your customers, your data, and your brand are protected.Watch our video to see theTSI Difference and how it can change the way
Cybersecurity for Small Businesses
By: Thomas A. Stith IIISBA North Carolina District Director Just like the economy, online shopping is booming in America. However, a prospering business can quickly become troubled should a cyber-thief cross your computer system. The U.S. Small Business Administration encourages entrepreneurs and consumers to prevent these virtual thieves by being aware of recent trends and staying alert to warning signs. The cost of cyber-crimes reached $2.7 billion in 2018, according to the FBI’s Internet Crime
Visit NC Farms
Our county boasts some of the most diversified farmland in the region. We are home to a multitude of diversified small family farms, vineyards & wineries, roadside stands, farmers’ markets, and CSAs, nurseries and gardens, and eating and drinking establishments that source local ingredients. We have a rich agricultural heritage that speaks to generational farmers as well as those who are new to the agricultural sector, which further strengthens our offerings to our communities. Many day-trippers are
Working for McDowell Small Business - Chamber Health Insurance for Western North Carolina
Knowing what matters to small businesses Aetna Funding Advantage (AFA) makes it easy for members of any Chamber of Commerce in 27 western North Carolina counties to save money on their benefits. And now, these businesses can save on average, and additional 2% on monthly costs through Chamber Health Insurance for Western North Carolina*. $168 per employee average annual discount for businesses that are part of Chamber Health Insurance for Western North Carolina that enrolls in an Aetna Funding
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Feisty Crowd Joins in Celebrating Marion's New Retro-Arcade
On Thursday, January 30, 2020, one of Marion’s newest businesses drew a feisty crowd of supporters to celebrate in a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the McDowell Chamber of Commerce. The Feisty Goldfish, located in the Historic Depot District, is a Retro Arcade and Bar with a modern take on a classic idea. “The first month has been beyond our wildest dreams,” said co-owner Derek Poteat, who expressed gratitude to the entire community. Local dignitaries and community supporters filled the first floor
Goodwill to Open New Store in Marion
Marion, N.C. (January 28, 2020) – Goodwill Industries of Northwest North Carolina will hold a grand opening for its first retail store in Marion, N.C., on Wednesday, Feb. 12. Local officials and members of Goodwill’s executive management team will be on hand for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 8:45 a.m., after which the public is invited to browse and shop in the store. “This new store will serve a dual purpose. It’s a place where folks can come in and shop for great bargains on a wide selection of items,
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Miller Complex Flexes Its Muscles With New Gym
Clanking weights, bass-pumping tunes, and the occasional grunt are all welcome sounds at the McDowell Fitness Center (MFC) in the Larry D. Miller Business Complex. This full-service gym, owned and operated by Misty Morris and her husband William Morris (of Morris-Herron Heating & Cooling), provides everything from weight training and state-of-the-art equipment to crossfit and TRX Training. The Chamber of Commerce recently held a Ribbon Cutting to commemorate the opening of the new business where Misty and
The Sweet Sound of Success
Who says old is out of style? Not the judges at the 2019 Asheville Food & Wine Festival who awarded Marion’s Keeper’s Cut Meadery with Double Gold, Gold, and Silver awards for their exquisite, flavorsome honey wines. The winning meads, 2016 Amarena (Double Gold), 2016 Anann Te (Gold), and their 2016 Autumn (Silver) stood out at the awards table rising to the top with other regional winemakers. Vintners such as DeTerra out of Tennessee, Jones von Drehle Vineyards in North Carolina, and Whitebarrel out of
Falling for The Pond at Laurel Cove
The sun rested on the tops of the trees before descending over the mountain. Blazing streaks of reds, yellows, and oranges stretched across the water bathing the resident ducks in color. They clustered at the far corner of the pond shying away from the crowds at the grand farmhouse-turned wedding venue, The Pond at Laurel Cove. Old Fort residents and owners Lisa and Patrick Ellis were excited to host local dignitaries, Chamber staff, friends, and family for the official Ribbon Cutting held Tuesday,
Twisted Rod Tire Opens in Old Fort
You might say Nathan Jones runs on RPMs and motor oil. At his recent Ribbon Cutting with the McDowell Chamber of Commerce, Jones proudly introduced his staff and family to the crowd gathered at Twisted Rod Tire Co.—his second family-owned automotive service and repair shop in Old Fort. An admitted motorhead, Jones loves working on and customizing cars. The tire shop, located at 109 E. Main Street in Old Fort, sells tires, does inspections, transmission work, brakes, and oil changes. For larger jobs, Jones
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