April 2003

Message from the
Chamber President

After our much-heralded release of the best ever countywide street map, the Chamber of Commerce continues to keep its sights on the horizon as we work to improve our business climate. I have met twice with David Allen, the new Community Economic Development manager for Madison County. The Chamber, along with Mr. Allen and various economic development boards within the county, are looking towards combining our efforts.

In the past week through our contacts and presence with business people outside of Madison, we have received a lead that may bring a new industry and employer here. The Chamber, the County government and its boards will work diligently, together, to pursue the feasibility of finding a site for this employer within the comfortable boundaries of Madison County.

I am excited about the flowing spring of business improvements that our peers will be adding to our region. If you have an idea, talent or time that you feel will benefit the Chamber and Madison County’s economy, please let us know. We’re looking for a few good folks.

Bob Jackson,
Chamber President

Chamber Officers
2002-2003

Bob Jackson - President
Jennifer Hott - Vice President
John Graeter - Recording Secretary
Tammy Williams - Treasurer

Chamber Board Meeting Highlights

March 2003 – Business Spotlight replaces Business of the Month. Farmer’s Market opens April 26.

February 2003 – Asheville Chamber of Commerce to host VIP event and I-26 tour on April 10 for visiting elected officials. Almost 200 maps sold by the Visitors Center. David & Lou’s Antiques voted Business of the Month.

January 2003 – Dues notices to be mailed. Thanks to Frank Fisher Ford for cars used in Christmas parades. Chamber may host Business Expo similar to McDowell county event to be held March 30. Penland & Sons voted Business of the Month.


Volunteer Alan Butterworth and State Representative Ray Rapp holding a Madison County map. Ray bought the first map.

December 2002 – MAPS, MAPS, MAPS! Chamber directories delivered. Chamber e-mail distribution list updated. Wolf Laurel Ski Resort voted Business of the Month.

November 2002 – Wolf Laurel Business Association formed. Yellow Teapot voted Business of the Month. Christmas trees donated by local farmers to be planted at three assisted living homes by Chamber members. Plans for Plow Day.

October 2002 – Job Link presentation. Wolf Laurel Lodge & Retreat voted Business of the Month. Chamber fundraising idea, create birdhouses using NC license plate.

September 2002 – Golden Leaf Grant Presentation. Business After Hours with United Way fundraiser held at Wolf Laurel Lodge & Retreat September 30.

August 2002 – Purchase of tree planter in Marshall. Kylie Sams, Chamber Scholarship Recipient. Report by Dr. Lunsford on moving the Visitor’s Center. Hosts sought for Business After Hours events. NC Ginseng & Goldenseal voted Business of the Month.

July 2002 – Future directories will be produced on a calendar year cycle. Zuma Coffee voted Business of the Month. Annual Meeting hosted at Mountain Magnolia Inn in Hot Springs held on July 27. New Board members elected.

June 2002 - Annual Scholar’s Banquet held at MHC. Mountin’ Hopes voted Business of the Month.

Farmer’s Market Opens

The Madison County Farmers Market is located in the parking lot across from the Mars Hill College tennis courts on NC 213 and will be open on Saturdays beginning April 26, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market offers produce, free-range eggs, goat cheese, mountain honey and molasses, canned goods, home-baked goods, bread, and crafts of many kinds -- brooms, flowers, furniture, soaps and medicinal herbs. More about the Market ...

Madison County Chamber of Commerce - PO Box 1527, Mars Hill, NC 28754 - (828) 680-9031

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