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CYAN MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK Chamber News Carteret County Chamber of Commerce Monthly Newsletter • December 2017 Why Should You Join? • Networking • Visibility • Credibility • Advertising Opportunities • Community Advocacy • Community Involvement • and much more! Ribbon Cuttings Page 8 See Pages 4-5 for Business After Hours Photos at Parker Honda Sunset on Bogue Banks Photo courtesy of Henry Kehen, Edward Jones Investments. Photos From New Member Reception Page 3 Page 7 The Need for High-Speed Broadband

Dec Chamber 2017 · Morehead City, NC 28557 252-726-6780 Home Care J. Chalk Designs Jeremy Chalk 101 W. Fort Macon Rd, #21 Atlantic Beach, NC 28512 252-726-5559 Jewelry John’s Golf

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Page 1: Dec Chamber 2017 · Morehead City, NC 28557 252-726-6780 Home Care J. Chalk Designs Jeremy Chalk 101 W. Fort Macon Rd, #21 Atlantic Beach, NC 28512 252-726-5559 Jewelry John’s Golf

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Chamber NewsCarteret County Chamber of Commerce Monthly Newsletter • December 2017

Why Should You Join?• Networking

• Visibility • Credibility• Advertising Opportunities

• Community Advocacy• Community Involvement

• and much more!

RibbonCuttings

Page 8

See Pages 4-5 for Business After Hours Photos at Parker Honda

Sunset on Bogue BanksPhoto courtesy of Henry Kehen, Edward Jones Investments.

Photos FromNew Member

ReceptionPage 3 Page 7

The Need forHigh-Speed Broadband

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page 2 - Chamber News, December, 2017

Thank You Membership Campaign Sponsors:“Sea of Greed” Book by Douglas

McCullough is based on the true

story behind the arrest of Manuel

Noriega and the invasion of Panama.

McCullough, a former U.S. Attorney,

prosecuted a sophisticated group

of drug smugglers and money-

launderers that had successfully

gained access into Texas, North

Carolina, Louisiana, Kentucky and

Michigan, amassing over $50 million,

which was placed in Panamanian

banks with Noriega’s assistance.

The investigation and apprehension

of these smugglers eventually led to

the exposure of Noriega as a drug

lord and money launderer despite

the fact that on occasion he provided

intelligence to the CIA and DEA and

received an award from President

Reagan. A conspiracy that spanned this

hemisphere, stretching from Colombia

to the Grand Caymans, Jamaica and

the United States, involved were local

politicians, businessmen, celebrities

and entertainment agents, as well as

Noriega and members of Colombian

drug cartels.

This is the only occasion where a

head of state has been prosecuted

in a federal court like any other

criminal.

For book orders go to Amazon or

wherever you buy books, including

your local book store. W&B Publishers

- www.a-rgusbookis.com

CAMS (Community Association Management Services) is now in its 26th year of operation. One of the keys to a quarter century of success is the company’s focus on personal service to each client. CAMS’ role as a property and condominium association management leader is directly connected to its dedicated team of employees, many of whom have proudly served for over a decade.

The CAMS community management team has a wealth of experience to offer and is made up of local people that specialize in homeowner, property and condo association

management. For your convenience, CAMS has a Morehead City office on Commerce Avenue and invites you to get to know our Morehead City staff.

Your association can benefit from a number of unique advantages CAMS offers:• Each member of an association

receives quality homeowner support with our “Team Approach” and becomes a priority among our entire organization.• Comprehensive, accurate financial

reports are delivered by our Accounting Department utilizing the latest technology which makes information available at all times.

• The entire membership has access to our Community Support Team that answers questions and addresses concerns. • Assessments are collected using

state-of-the-art software with collection processes available for delinquent accounts.• Relationships are valued and nurtured

with property owners, associations, vendors and other professionals who support the needs of our clients.

If you are interested in what CAMS could provide your association, please call 252.247.3101 or visit them online at www.camsmgt.com.

Bob Upchurch Appraisals, LLC is a Carteret County-based business serving a multitude of appraisal clients – estates, attorneys, pre-listing sellers, banks, mortgage lenders, individuals, builders, buyers, sellers, insurance companies, municipalities, etc. Consultations by agreement.

Bob Upchurch sold real estate in Carteret County (1996-1999) prior to obtaining his appraisal license and is thoroughly familiar with the

real estate market and fluctuations in property values. Bob is a state-certified general appraiser; however, he limits his commercial and industrial work to lots and acreage. Bob has a wide range of experience including retrospective appraisals (mostly for estates and historical values). Other areas include residential lots, acreage, existing homes, boat slips, manufactured homes on permanent foundations, etc.

“Carteret County property owners

need to check their tax parcel cards, now, and correct any errors, in preparation for the next revaluation, which will be effective January 1, 2019,” Mr. Upchurch said. There may be errors that impact value on the tax cards that need to be corrected before the next revaluation. “Keep my information in case you want an appraisal to appeal the revaluation in 2019.” Phone 252-247-9905 or e-mail [email protected]

Morton Water is a locally owned

company providing water wells and

water treatment systems for 15

years. “We service all of eastern

North Carolina with the knowledge,

experience and equipment

to handle any water project,

residential or commercial,”

said Tom Morton. “Combining

our knowledge of water well

systems with a new level of

intelligent water treatment

systems from Water-Right, we have

the advantage to meet all of your

water needs.”

“Water-Right softens hard water and

removes iron, manganese and sulfur

without chemicals. Water-Right offers

high-quality drinking water systems that

provide sparkling clear water where it’s

needed the most – right from your

trap. Since 1963, people like you

have looked to Water-Right for their

water treatment needs. If you have

questions as to the quality of your

water, contact Tom Morton, your Water-

Right professional.” Morton Water is

located at 117 Turners Dairy Road,

Morehead City. Call 222-0513.

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Kpage 3 - Chamber News, December, 2017

The Carteret County Chamber of Commerce is

now accepting nominations for two of its major

awards—the Arnold Murray Small Business Person

of the Year and for the Joan Huss Pulley award for

Public Service.

Separate nomination forms are required and

are available at the Chamber, 801 Arendell St,

Morehead City or downloaded from the website,

Nominations Invited for Major Awards

Jim and Kim Williams of AFLAC, Jim Davison of Kiwanas Club of the Crystal Coast, and Joyce Olsen of Skybank Financial.

Kristina Cagle and Brooke Kittrell of Lotus y la Luna, Charlie Weatherby of Off the Hook, and Al Ebron of Coastal NC Coffee News.

www.nccoastchamber.com. For information, call

726-6350 or go to the Chamber’s website. The

deadline for nominations is Friday, December 29.

The Small Business Award goes to a small

business owner who has made extraordinary

contributions to the community. Only Chamber

members are eligible.

The Joan Huss Pulley Award for Public Service

is sponsored by Duke Energy. It is not necessary

for a nominee to be a Chamber member or a Duke

Energy customer. The selection will be based on

outstanding civic participation, achievements, and

contributions.

The recipients will be recognized at the Crystal

Ball on Saturday, February 17.

Connect Carteret is celebrating the holiday

by hosting their inaugural Claus Crawl on

Saturday, December 17 from 2:00 pm to

6:00 pm. This event will feature Holiday

Spirits, Food and fun at restaurants and pubs

throughout Downtown Beaufort.

Claus Crawl for the HolidaysTickets are available for purchase on the Carteret

County Chamber of Commerce website for $15 per

person that includes “Nice List” Specials, Crawl

Mug, Swag and a special invitation to an exclusive

After Party!! This event is open to Santas and

Elves of all ages!!

Connect Carteret is a Young Professionals

networking group that offers opportunities in

the business community through professional

development, community involvement, networking

and social activities.

The Carteret County Chamber of Commerce is

happy to announce that North Tower will perform

at the 2018 Crystal Ball taking place on Saturday,

February 17, starting at 6 p.m. at the DoubleTree

by Hilton Oceanfront Hotel, 2717 W. Fort Macon

Road, Atlantic Beach.

This year’s theme is “Celebrating Business”

and instead of black-tie optional, the dinner-dance

will be cocktail attire. This year, in addition to the

annual awards, the gavel will be officially handed

over to the new Chair of the Chamber Board,

Millie Chalk of Duke Energy, by the outgoing Chair,

North Tower to Perform at Crystal BallTina Purifoy of Carteret County.

North Tower has been one of the

south’s great party bands for over 35

years, providing the best in oldies,

beach, top 40 and funk. Sizzling brass,

super vocals, and a wide-ranging

repertoire will have the crowd on its

feet and dancing.

Tickets are $50 per person and

sponsorships are available. Go

to www.ncccoastchamber.com for

more information.

Thirty-one new members joined

the Carteret County Chamber of

Commerce during the annual

Membership Drive. Over fifty

members, board of directors and

Chamber ambassadors attended

the New Member Reception on

Tuesday, November 14. Food was

provided by Off the Hook, Venice

Italian Kitchen, and Sam’s Club.

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page 4 - Chamber News, December, 2017

Business After Hours -Parker Honda BAH Was a Huge HitNearly 250 Chamber members attended the Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours at Parker Honda on Thursday, November

16, to celebrate Parker’s 70 years of being in business. Networking and friendly conversation was augmented by the fabulous food

supplied by Floyd’s 1921 Restaurant.

Bill and Juanita Reed of Jitterzz.

Brenda and Barry Kreager of Royal Coat, Inc.

Don Wells and Irene Bailey Wells, friends of the Chamber.

Bob Cherry of Carteret County, and Mike Mull and Olivia Rojas of East Carolina Custom Curbs, LLC.

Cheryl Mansfi eld of Edward Jones Investments, Randall Parker of Parker Honda, and Keri Nielsen of WNCT9.

June McLendon of Hope Mission, Steve Hellersperk of Toastmasters Morehead City, and Joyce Olsen of SkyBank Finacial.

Page 5: Dec Chamber 2017 · Morehead City, NC 28557 252-726-6780 Home Care J. Chalk Designs Jeremy Chalk 101 W. Fort Macon Rd, #21 Atlantic Beach, NC 28512 252-726-5559 Jewelry John’s Golf

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Kpage 5 - Chamber News, December, 2017

Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

Kim Patterson of Chused Patterson & Company, CPA’s, Bridget Curran of Ne-caise Insurance & Finacial Services, Inc., and Mike Barkas of MJB Computers. James Patterson, photobomb.

Nearly 250 Chamber members enjoyed the Business After Hours at Parker Honda.

Mike and Sandy Wagoner, friends of the Chamber.

Polly and John Hagle, friends of the Chamber and Sam O’Berry of Bluewater Insurance.

Sam and Millie Chalk of Duke Energy and Richard Parker of Parker Honda. Terry and Cher Brown of Keva Creative.

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page 6 - Chamber News, December, 2017

Look who’s joined the ChamberPlease welcome and patronize these new Chamber members who have recently joined the Chamber.

Ann Paige DesignsGwen Clark4426 Arendell St., Suite 1Morehead City, NC 28557252-646-9933Clothing/Retail, Jewelry

Array Community Development CorporationKevin DanielsPO Box 1009Beaufort, NC 28516919-438-3067Organizations and Agencies

Avon (Treasure Trove 2017)Teresa Day1005 N. Yaupon TerraceMorehead City, NC 28557570-262-1071Health and Beauty

Chari-TableKim Bell and Jonathan Haas217 Turner St.Beaufort, NC 28516919-271-6144Non-profit

CYCLIS Funding GroupJacqueline Lambertsen325 Winding Woods WayBeaufort, NC 28516919-260-7710Real Estate, Investment Counselors, Personal &Business Coach

Daniels Development GroupKevin Daniels1903 Live Oak St. #1009Beaufort, NC 28516919-438-3067Business Development

East Carolina Custom Curbs, LLC.Michael Damren591 Gillikin Rd.Beaufort, NC 28516252-503-8106Building/Landscaping

Eastern Carolina Aviation Heritage FoundationAmanda Ohlensehlen201 Tourist Center Dr.Havelock, NC 28532252-444-4348Organizations and agencies

Flowers & Designs by ErnestErnest Chiles1402 Live Oak St.Beaufort, NC 28516252-728-7022Florists

Gypsybee Studios and GalleryMichelle J. Fairchild801 Arendell St., Suite 3Morehead City, NC 28557252-499-0902Art Gallery/Studio

Guardian ad LitemGail Horne300 Courthouse Sq.Beaufort, NC 28516252-504-4525Children’s Advocacy

In Touch Home CareEddie and Wanda Temple3328-D Bridges StMorehead City, NC 28557252-726-6780Home Care

J. Chalk DesignsJeremy Chalk101 W. Fort Macon Rd, #21Atlantic Beach, NC 28512252-726-5559Jewelry

John’s Golf Cars Inc.Jim D. Rogers Jr.1219 Highway 58Swansboro, NC 28584252-393-6275Golf Carts

Keva Creative, LLCTerry and Cher BrownUnit E-101, 4513 Country Club Rd.Morehead City, NC 28557252-499-9965Video Production, Media Production & Advertising

Kings Window CleaningMichael Gray1663 New Bern StNewport, NC 28570252-229-6325Window cleaning

Kiwanis Club of the Crystal CoastCindy Davison520 Shipmast Ct.Beaufort, NC 28516252-342-7713Non-profit

Lotus y la LunaBrooke Kittrell105 Megans Court ECedar Point, NC 28584252-646-8285Clothing/Retail

Lucas Jordan FitnessLucas Jordan1321 Spencer AveNew Bern, NC 28560321-604-5246Health & Fitness

MJB ComputersMike J. Barkas110 Industrial DrMorehead City, NC 28557252-723-7139Computer Repair, Computer Sales & Service

MK Chalk Architecture, PAMaggie Chalk105 Banks StMorehead City, NC 28557252-726-3099Architects

Off the HookCharles M. Weatherby III105 S. 7th St.Morehead City, NC 28557252-499-9150Restaurants

Pop-elatoAnne S. Gordon112B West Dr.Atlantic Beach, NC 28512434-738-8109Ice Cream Shops

Sammy’s Seafood House & Oyster BarEric DelVecchio109 S. 6th St.Morehead City, NC 28557252-648-8399Restaurants

Scentsy by TracyTracy D. Sinclair190 Possum Trot Rd.Smyrna, NC 28579252-241-6036Candles-Wickless

Sea PawsJeff and Sarah Vaughn412-C Evans St.Morehead City, NC 28557252-499-9792Pet Shop

Shortway Brewing CompanyMatt Shortway230 Chatham St.Newport, NC 28570252-777-3065Brewery

Sinclair Motor CompanyBrent Sinclair201 Campen Rd.Beaufort, NC 28516252-728-2040Automobile Dealers, Golf Cart Sales, Service & Rentals

Jeffrey SorrellJeffrey Sorrell249 Pearson CircleNewport, NC 28570919-538-8613Friend of the Chamber

Southern Salt SeafoodConnie PhillipsCrippled Crab701 Evans St.Morehead City, NC 28557678-897-7738Restaurants

Storage IdeasBobbi Dees106 Cannon Blvd.Newport, NC 28570252-726-1005Storage Buildings, Rentals

Terrance J. Enterprises Inc., t/a Coastal BuildingBobbi Dees125 Horton Dr.Morehead City, NC 28557252-726-1005Contractors- General

Venice Italian KitchenAlisia L. Payne4047 Arendell St. Morehead City, NC 28557252-499-9642Restaurants

Wrenn Johnson Allstate AgencyWrenn Johnson205 Atlantic Beach CausewayAtlantic Beach, NC 28512252-222-4783Insurance

Membership RenewalsThe following Chamber members renewed their membership 10/18/17 to 11/14/17Accent Travel and CruisesAQUAAtlantic Awnings NCAustin Veterinary Outreach and Rescue, Inc.Banks, Gray & Crumpler, PLLCBaran Properties, LLCBeachside BikesBeaufort Ace Home CenterBeaufort Home StoreBeaufort Spring ApartmentsBeaufort Woman’s ClubBelkBig Oak Drive In & Bar-B-QueBig Rock Blue Marlin TournamentBogue BatteryBoys & Girls Club of Coastal PlainBridges Professional Park Animal Hospital P.A.Brimco BuildersBrown & Curtis Home Services, LLCBuildPro Construction CompanyByrd Surveying, P.A.C. C. MotorsportsTown of Cape CarteretCarolinas Center for SurgeryCarteret County Domestic Violence Program, Inc. Carteret Healthy CareCarteret Landing Assisted Living and Memory CareChadwick Tire Co., Inc.Clegg’s Termite & Pest Control, Inc.Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat Associates PLLCThe Coastal Environmental PartnershipCoastal Home Services, Inc.Coastal Image Photography

Community Home Care & HospiceComprehensive Dental CenterConstruction Accounting Specialists, LLCCorwin Law Firm, PLLCCrow’s Nest Yacht ClubCrystal Coast Civic CenterCrystal Coast Family PracticeCrystal Coast Hospice HouseThe Curb MarketDanny Varner Building, Inc. Debra Whaley, Attorney at LawDonna H. Comer State Farm InsuranceDuke EnergyDunkin’ DonutsExtreme Wash-N-Detail, LLCFort Macon Sail & Power SquadronGolden Carpet & Tile, Inc.Gold’s GymGraham & Randles ChiropracticH & R BlockHole in the Wall Dog TrainingHollowell Group ResourcesHoneyBaked Ham of Morehead CityHousing Authority of the Town of BeaufortHungry Town ToursTown of Indian BeachThe Inn at Pine Knoll ShoresThe Island GrilleJ. M. Davis IndustriesJames C. Briley, Jr.Keller Williams Crystal Coast – Fran Pigott HardingKindred Spirit Gift Shop & Green Gables Tea RoomLongley Supply Company

Martha’s Mission Cupboard, Inc.Mary Kay Cosmetics – Debbie Fisher, Sales DirectorMcLaughlin Chiropractic Center – Cedar PointMelissa Crews State Farm AgencyMoreHair City SalonMorehead City Yacht Basin/Marina Management Services, LLCMorehead Motor CompanyMorton WaterMovement Mortgage – Emerald IsleNewport Pig Cookin’Open Water Medical, PAPotashCorp-AuroraPromise’ Land MarketR. E. Bengel Sheet Metal & Roofi ngThe Reel OutdoorsSea Tow Crystal CoastSeahawk Inn & VillasSeashore Imaging, LLCShore Décor, Inc.Smithfi eld’s Chicken n’ BBQSoundside Steak & SeafoodSt. Peter’s United Methodist ChurchStation Club EnterpriseSuessle Health & WealthSunbelt Business Brokers of Coastal North Carolina Inc.Sunshine CleanersTight Lines Pub & Brewing Co.Trent, Cadillac, Buick, GMCUnited States Coast Guard Sector North CarolinaWaste Removal LLCWheatly, Wheatly, Weeks, Lupton & Massie, PAWilliam’s Floorcovering & InteriorsWillis Insurance Agency

If you’re intererested in joining the Chambercontact us:801 Arendell Street, Suite 1Morehead City, NC 28557(252)726-6350(800) NCCOASTFax (252)[email protected]

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Kpage 7 - Chamber News, December, 2017

Ribbon Cuttings

First Citizens Bank. 1505 Live Oak Street, Beaufort. Contact Dot Crumley at 252-728-4100. Open Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Specializing in “Financial Services and Banking.”

HoneyBaked Ham of Morehead City. 5167 US Highway 70 Unit 40, Morehead City, NC 28557. Contact Jackie Barton at 252-723-8260. Open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-7p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Specializing in “Premium hams, turkey breast & specialty sides and desserts, along with sandwiches, soups and salads to eat in or take home. Serving lunch all day!”

The Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee invites everyone in the community to participate in the 2017 “Cookies for the Troops” project.

Bring cookies and other baked goods to the Chamber, 801 Arendell St., Morehead City, Nonday-Wednesday (December 18-20).

MAC Chari, Lori Matta, said, “We want to provide holiday treats to the military personnel

who are on active duty during the Christmas holidays. Many of them are spending the holidays away from home for the very first time.”

“Cookies and other dessert treats can be homemade or store-bought. Just place them in plastic wrapping or zipped plastic bags. Cakes and pies should be sliced and individually wrapped.”

The MAC will box up items and make deliveries on Thursday, December 21, to the Coast Guard stations at Fort Macon and Emerald isle, to the Marines and Sailors at MCAS Cherry Point and Bogue Field, and to the Army Reserve Center in Morehead City.

For more information, call the cookie coordinator at the Chamber at 252-726-6350.

Get Ready for Cookies for the Troops

Station Club Enterprise, a division of Carobell, Inc. 306 Church Street, Morehead City, NC. Contact Chris McNeely at 919-436-4001. Open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. with office hours Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Specializing in “Providing pre-vocational, vocational and vocational services to persons with developmental/intellectual disabilities.”

Wellness by Priscilla York. 1105 B Arendell Street, Morehead City. Contact Priscilla York at 920-427-0852. By appointment 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Specializing in “Facials, waxing, pedicures and body treatments using organic products. Spa parties tailored to your needs as well as Princess spa parties for the littles. Special hairstyling is also available.”

Debbie Fisher Honored asAmbassador of the Month

The Ambassador of the Month for September and October at the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce is Debbie Fisher, who is a Sales Director with Mary Kay Cosmetics as well as owner of office Fusion Solutions and the Professional Business Center. “Ambassadors earn points each month for carrying out their assorted duties,” said Julie Naegelen, who is the Chamber’s staff liaison to the Ambassadors Club.

“Debbie has been instrumental in helping with Operation Thank You, hand delivering the 2017 Chamber Business Directory to hundreds of fellow Chamber members. Debbie is always a top recruiter during the annual Membership Drive Campaign, sharing with potential new members how joining the Chamber and using the full benefits of membership will help them grow their customer base. Debbie invites area

business owners to join the Chamber and attend the various events such as Ribbon Cuttings and business After Hours encouraging them to network with other business owners to make those important contacts and enjoy the referrals for future business,” Naegelen said.

This is the 54th time that Debbie has earned Ambassador of the Month since 2006 . She is also a member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

To inquire about becoming a member of the Ambassador’s Club, contact Julie Naegelen at 726-6350 or [email protected].

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page 8 - Chamber News, December, 2017

Bigger& Smarter

Radio

The Need For High Speed Broadband by Tom Kies

Now is the time to showcase your business at one of Carteret County’s premiere networking events, the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours. A tried and true formula for success, the Business After Hours are hosted once, sometimes twice a month and the stars of the show are the sponsors and co-sponsors of the evening. Be sure to act quickly, as these dates will be snagged up quickly!!

There are 15 Business After Hours dates on the 2018 calendar of the Carteret County Chamber of Commerce, and Chamber members are encouraged to apply to host and sponsor these events. The hosting fee is $150, and the host is responsible for providing food, beer and wine for attendees. Business After Hours functions are from 5:30-7 p.m. and are almost always on a Thursday. With a $5 entry fee, and

a business card to drop in the basket to register to win some fabulous door prizes, you will make an instant connection to the hub of the business community in Carteret County. As the host or co-sponsor, make it your year to shine, get noticed and educate attendees about your business or organization. For more information and to apply, contact Julie Naegelen at 726- 6350 or [email protected].

Chamber is lining up hosts & sponsorsfor Business After Hours in 2018

The Brookings Institution, a Washington, D.C., think-tank, did a study finding that between 2009 and 2015, private employment grew almost twice as fast in the larger metropolitan areas of North Carolina (those with 500,000 or more people) compared with smaller metro areas. It also found that income grew 50 percent more in the larger areas.

The Brooking study advocates for government policies that foster manufacturing jobs, expand work-based training programs such as apprenticeships, provide more support for community college, and improve internet access in rural areas.

In the 2017 Carteret County Chamber of Commerce Legislative Agenda, there is a line item that advocates for improved high-speed broadband access. Broadband availability improves quality of life by raising property values and attracting a dynamic workforce. It is important for home- based industries, agriculture and advanced manufacturing. The Chamber requests that the General Assembly explore all options to level the playing field so that Eastern North Carolina can compete with outer areas of the state that have greater broadband coverage.

The term “digital divide” describes the disparity between geographic areas regarding opportunities to access information and communications

technologies. The gap will continue to grow as long as locations with low or no broadband connectivity do not invest in broadband development. Businesses that rely on broadband, in particular, Gigabit fiber, will have no choice but to invest in locations with it. Educational and health care systems in non-broadband locations will fall behind those with broadband that access, share, and use otherwise unattainable information.

Regarding economic growth opportunities, corporate site selectors expect high speed broadband. For communities, it is a critical piece of infrastructure for attracting capital investment. Locations with inadequate connectivity are often passed over if the company requires broadband.

Economic development aside, with the advent of all things internet, including the creep of ‘smart homes’, it won’t be long before gigabit fiber speeds are needed for your residential use. This past April, Verizon announced that it was ready to roll out near-gigabit speeds to more than 8 million potential customers in eight East Coast markets.

How fast is that? Verizon promises downloads as fast as 940 megabits per second and uploads as 880 megabits. To put it simply, you can download an epic Hollywood blockbuster in seconds.

Verizon isn’t the only company pushing for higher speed internet. Cable providers are starting to

embrace an industry standard known as DOCSIS 3.1. That’s shorthand for Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification, a method for delivering fiber-like speeds over existing cable lines.

But the ability to access gigabit fiber or DOCSIS 3.1 is dependent upon where you call home. If your cable or internet company refuses to provide a region with this badly needed utility, it will not only just remain the status-quo, but opportunities will fade.

In order to attract the kinds of companies that are highly compatible to our unique regional environment, we must be able to provide high speed, dependable broadband. Healthcare, science, communications, research, sales- all of these require higher speeds than what can be offered.

Video conferencing, cloud access, home devices, information and entertainment downloading-these aren’t things of the future. What we have in the county simply isn’t adequate, especially when our population swells by 100,000 people during the tourist season and the broadband ‘pipeline’ becomes overtaxed and slows to a crawl.

The Chamber is currently working with county stakeholders to research options to rectify the situation and increase our ability to attract new economic opportunities.