David Jackson Productions

Chambers of Commerce all over the country host ribbon-cuttings for their members. More than a picture in the paper, these events are the crossing of a finish line for those that are putting their heart and soul into a new professional veture.On this week's Mind Your Business, we take you inside a recent ribbon cutting at The Pottery Lot. From the opening comments to a conversation with owner Emily Roberts, you hear the story behind the cutting of the scissors, and understand all that a business must endure to get to that celebratory moment.It's also Boonerang Weekend in the High Country, another visible showing of what music and the arts provide to our local economy. Of the many gig workers that will assemble to make this weekend's shows possible, there is a local artist that will get the thrill of walking out on stage less than a half mile from where his career started. We hear from budding country music star Adam Church about his Watauga County roots, the thrill of hitting the stage in his hometown, and the details of his own Boonerang experience.Mind Your Business is written and produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

Summertime has arrived in the High Country! As schools continue to release throughout the state and region, tourists have heard the #WNCOpenforBusiness message.  On this week's Mind Your Business, we will preview An Appalachian Summer Festival, a month-long arts showcase that serves as one of the area's July tourism magnets. An Appalachian Summer Festival is one of several arts events that draw visitors to the region, along with the High Country Jazz Festival, Boonerang, Music in the Valle, Concerts in the Park among others. These gatherings provide entertainment to visitors, jobs for the artists, while inspiring future generations.As we continue to cover ongoing Helene recovery efforts, we have key updates on positive progress to work on the Blue Ridge Parkway and a check-in on the latest from Raleigh as it relates to Helene-related funding allocations.Mind Your Business is written and produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone. Support the show

#WNCOpenforBusiness week rolls continues throughout Western North Carolina, and this intentional effort to bring people to the region got quite the boost from the State's First Family.On this week's Mind Your Business, we recap North Carolina First Lady Anna Stein's visit to Watauga and Ashe counties on Monday, June 2nd, which included the canoe trip seen 'round the world!How does the intentionality of choosing to eat at a local restaurant impact those working to provide your meal and experience? We'll get that answer from Tina Houston, along with details about her latest project that is bringing fresh food back to Valle Crucis!Mind Your Business is written and produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

As schools around the region wrap-up their end-of-year testing, perhaps it's only fair for the adults to have some math reintroduced into their lives!On this week's Mind Your Business, we provide the latest update from Jones Street, where members of the NC General Assembly are simultaneously considering Part II of the Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 (Helene Recovery) while also gearing up to move the biennium budget through the conference process. How do Helene relief dollars play into budget plans? We will give our very best attempt at an answer that does not require a TI-81.We'll also provide some highlights from Vision Northwest North Carolina, including the full set of remarks from Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt, as she shared her vision for a Future Ready North Carolina.Mind Your Business is written and produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

This week's Mind Your Business leads off with an important update regarding the Blue Ridge Parkway.Summer and fall travelers love a good festival as much as local residents enjoy the influence and entertainment the arts bring to the High Country. Mark Freed, Director of Cultural Resources for the Town of Boone, previews Boonerang 2025, and provides an update on how Howard Street construction will be handled during the four-day downtown festival.Festivals and events don't happen without the hard work of the gig economy and arts industry. Both non-profit and for-profit arts sector accounts for $47 million annually in Watauga County, including $2.1 million in generated tax revenue. Amber Bateman, Executive Director of the Watauga Arts Council shares the importance of the 2025 summer and fall seasons for an industry that lost enormous revenue and market opportunity post Hurricane Helene. She'll also share how the Watauga Arts Council works to support the industry while working to inspire the next generation of artists and makers.Mind Your Business is written and produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

The 6th-annual Vision Northwest North Carolina economic development summit is just around the corner and will feature a visit and remarks from North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt. On this week's Mind Your Business, we set the context for the discussion and preview some of the presentations and panels.Much has been discussed about tourism trends in the High County over recent days. We'll visit with Tara Brossa, General Manager of the Hampton Inn & Suites and Courtyard by Marriott of Boone and get her take on tourism traffic and what is driving visitors to the High Country. We'll also get some perspective on how visitors impact jobs and wages for local hospitality workers.Mind Your Business is written and produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

Celebrated for its scenic beauty and connections to Appalachia culture, the Blue Ridge Parkway stretches 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina and serves as the longest linear park in the United States. While its footprint is massive, it's impacts are felt on a hyper-local level, with communities uniquely imprinting themselves toward the 16.7 million visitors that pass through the park each year.After years spent gathering support, the Blue Ridge Parkway was granted $127M of the $1.3 million Great American Outdoors Act, which was passed by Congress in 2022. This established the opportunity to complete decades-long deferred maintenance along the Parkway's entire corridor.The combination of these planned projects and the necessary detours, partial, and full road and feature closures in areas now impacted by Hurricane Helene have communities, visitors, and residents concerned about the short and long-term impacts of these necessary projects. On this week's Mind Your Business, we set the context for the economic and community impact of the Blue Ridge Parkway, and provide an update on what comes next in terms of decisions about current repairs and long-term infrastructure upgrades. We'll hear from Jesse Pope, Executive Director of the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Association, one of the Parkway's most visible attractions. We'll also talk with Carolyn Ward, CEO of the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, a 501c(3) organization tapped with assisting Parkway staff with funding, marketing, and other support not covered as part of the Federal budget. The BRPF is behind the Blue Ridge Rising action plan, which will help connect Parkway communities and visitors with travel experiences, enhanced cultural attractions, and more. Other organizations like the Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea trail and the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area also provide volunteer, programmatic, and marketing support along the Parkway.Mind Your Business is written and produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

Agriculture has always been an influential contributor to Watauga County's economic performance. In its 2024 statistics report, the North Carolina Department of Agriculture reported $13.85 million in cash receipts generated by Watauga County farms, with an additional $5 million in economic impact coming from Watauga County Christmas Tree growers. The business of farming has changed a great deal over the decades. Now agritourism is counted on to keep many of these multi-generation family-farms producing.On this week's Mind Your Business, we discuss the state of the agriculture community in Watauga County with Gray Shipley of Shipley Farms Beef. We'll hear some history about production in the area as well as how changing market realities have caused farms to focus more on providing experiences rather than high-volume yields. In the spirit of the emergence of warmer weather, we'll also hear from several local business owners about what they are most looking forward to this summer. We also provide an update on a key economic development project aimed at providing broadband connectivity in hard to reach places.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and the Watauga County Economic Development Commission see access to quality and affordable childcare as one of the top economic development priorities in our region.Western Youth Network is in the public phase of fundraising for a project that would provide a significant boost to afterschool and out-of-school care for children across Watauga County. On this week's Mind Your Business, we visit with Jennifer Warren, Executive Director of WYN, to hear more about their Building Brighter Futures Campaign, and the needs this project addresses for children, parents, and local businesses.We'll also provide an update on key early childhood legislation as we move closer to a new state budget in North Carolina. Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

Who are the two people that have the most impact on the High Country's outdoor economy? Mother Nature and Old Man Winter! Our opportunities for recreation are not only a magnet for visitors, but they are also a core component of the quality of life that makes this region so attractive to residents.On this week's Mind Your Business, we hear the latest on the State of the Outdoor Economy. Andy Hill is the Watauga Riverkeeper and Regional Director for Mountain True. He shares the latest on post-storm river cleanup efforts, improved water quality, and the latest on where and what types of fish are biting. We'll also hear from River Girl Fishing Company's Renata Dos Santos, as she gives an account of the status of the river for tubing and kayaking, what outfitters see daily, and what they need most at this point in our Helene recovery.We wrap up with Howard Street construction news and details about the sale of a legacy local business.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to sponsorship support from Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

Since when did the stock market start following the High Country weather pattern? If you don't like what you see, wait a few days!The economic ups and downs of today have an impact on the stability and predictability many High Country businesses. On this week's Mind Your Business, we examine the long-term impacts from the daily financial volatility we see every time we look at the news. We define some "terms of the moment," to provide basic understanding of what we are seeing and look at how today's economic landscape is shaping the hurricane recovery efforts Northwest North Carolina. We get these details and more during our quarterly check-in with Jonathan Allen of Allen Wealth Management.Next week's groundbreaking on the Howard Street revitalization project has stirred excitement throughout the community. We hear from two long-time Howard Street business owners about their hopes and expectations for the project, and what they need most from customers and the Town of Boone during construction.Mind Your Business is written and produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

Boone is soon to check another long-discussed project off the list! On this week's Mind Your Business, we share the details of the Howard Street Revitalization Project, including information about the groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for April 14th. Lane Moody, Director of the Downtown Boone Development Association discusses project details, communication plans, and how this project has been designed to enhance pedestrian access for both events and day-to-day use.We also hear the in-the-moment reaction from the 2025 4 Under 40 honorees.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This program is made possible thanks to sponsorship support from Appalachian Commercial Real Estate. Catch the show each Thursday morning at 9AM on WATA (1450AM & 96.5FM) in Boone.Support the show

We recorded this episode of Mind Your Business six-months to the day Hurricane Helene made her way through the High Country. We start the program with a message of hope to sew into our daily conversations along with some updates on where progress is emerging.Earlier this week, Cheap Joes Art Stuff announced its closing the doors on a 40-year run as one of the nation's most popular art supply depots. Joseph Miller joins us to answer the question of why the time to say goodbye is now.We also recap the 9th-annual 4 Under 40 awards and give the details on the next big Chamber event. Fore!Mind Your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

Mind Your Business is back in your inbox this week with a breakdown of the latest Helene recovery bill passed Wednesday by the NC General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Josh Stein. We'll outline some specific local examples of how these helpful dollars will be allocated.While Helene may still be grabbing the headlines, there are many other core economic and community development projects that are ongoing. This year's legislative calendar could yield some significant progress for the childcare industry. One local business is taking a key point of action and advancing it forward before the legislature gets involved. Hear the story of Kid Cove, and Halee Hartley's recent announcement of a new benefit she is providing for the workforce behind the workforce.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

Mind Your Business is back and loaded with information this week.We start with a recap of North Carolina Governor Josh Stein's State of the State address, along with updates on Helene recovery activities working through local and State government channels.Speaking of local government, Watauga County has partnered with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Aerostar to expedite debris removal from waterways and private property. Watauga County Emergency Management Director, Will Holt, Darlene Abbot, Project Manager for Aerostar, joined WATA's Mark in the Morning for a detailed discussion around the program, including details on how commercial and residential property owners can access this free service.We end the show with a visit with an old friend. Dr. Scott Elliott is locally known as the longtime Superintendent of Watauga County Schools and former Director of Development for Blue Ridge Conservancy. He now serves as Deputy Director of Engagement for GROW NC, working throughout the western region on hurricane recovery efforts. We'll hear about the mission of this new organization, what Governor Stein's priorities are for the work of this office, and how local residents can interact with the agency.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The show is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Visit GROW NC online at www.wncrecovery.nc.gov.  Support the show

Mind Your Business is back with a new format and a metric ton of High Country News!We start on campus where Dr. Heather Norris was announced today as the 8th Chancellor in Appalachian State University's history. We were granted a one-on-one interview with Chancellor Norris following her appointment, where she talks about her Chamber roots and the role of campus as a positive and supportive partner for the High Country community.In the wake of Hurricane Helene, the snow sports industry has provided a much needed boost to our region's economic recovery. Talia Freeman, Director of Marketing at Beech Mountain Resort, talks about the impact of cold weather on the success of the slopes, and what she hears from visitors as they return to the mountains. Talia also details the upcoming Runs for Buns fundraising weekend, and gives some inspiration for those businesses looking to find their philanthropic cause.We also have information about the third round of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Hope for the High Country: Business Resiliency Disaster Grant program.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The show is made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

Small businesses throughout Western North Carolina are closer to much needed financial relief. On Friday, January 31, 2025, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein was in Boone and announced the creation of a pool of $30M for the Western North Carolina Small Business Initiative II, a grant program for eligible businesses in Helene-impacted counties. On this week's Mind Your Business, we will hear directly from Governor Stein about this program and we will break down eligibility criteria in great detail. We will also hear from other involved with the program as they explain how small businesses in our region can benefit from these available funds.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. It is made possible each week thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

On January 16, 2025, the Boone Area and Blowing Rock Chambers of Commerce hosted the 9th annual High Country Economic Kickoff Luncheon, in front of a sold out audience at Appalachian State's Grandview Ballroom.On this week's Mind Your Business, we hear the annual High Country Economic Forecast from Dr. Harry Davis, Regional Economist and Dean of the NC School of Banking. Dr. Davis recaps 2024, discusses the economic impact of hot topics like housing and inflation, and breaks down the impact of Hurricane Helene on the local economy. He also delivers his forecast for Watauga County, Western North Carolina, and the entire State for 2025.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

On January 17, 2024, the Mind Your Business podcast was on-location in Swannanoa, NC, one of the most devastated communities in Western North Carolina from the impacts of Hurricane Helene. The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a regionally focused panel discussion entitled Business Voices for WNC Recovery. In addition to remarks from Chamber leaders from across the region, the overflow audience heard directly from businesses from impacted areas, about their current realities, immediate needs, and continued pain points as recovery efforts continue. Regional Business Panelists: Lisa Cooper, President/CEO, Mast General Store Meredith Ellison, Founder and Chief Well-Being Officer, Quility Sandi Garcia Boyer, Executive Director, North Carolina Youth Camp Association Main Street Business Panelists: Jeffrey Burroughs, President, River Arts District Association Michelle Bollman, General Manager, Stick Boy Karen Caruso, Founder/Owner, Mind Your Business Please stay engaged with your local Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development organizations for the latest information related to business supports for storm recovery. You can help these organizations by responding to requests for data and stories, as these asks from the legislative and grant-funding communities are critical to informing future policy and funding discussions.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. It is made possible each week thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

We continue to fill your pre-holiday stockings with year-in-review content -- a perfect listen while you are wrapping gifts or cleaning before the in-laws arrive!This week's Mind Your Business puts the focus on the year that was for Watauga County. Newly sworn Chairman of the Watauga County Board of Commissioners, Braxton Eggers, is this week's guest. As expected, we will discuss the county's role in hurricane relief and we'll also update the list of projects that were in queue prior to the storm. Chairman Eggers will also address economic development priorities, school construction, and other projects that could come to the top of discussions in 2025.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

Tis the season for year in review content, and we will not disappoint!Over the next few weeks, our Mind Your Business episodes will feature local leaders with conversation around the year in review, but also what is to come in 2025. Our first guest is Town of Boone Mayor Tim Futrelle. We will discuss Helene recovery, the recently approved Howard Street development project, and the approval and eventual rollout of Boone Next. Mind Your Business is a weekly (for the most part) production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to sponsorship from Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.  Support the show

The question continues to get asked - "What are the current needs in Western North Carolina?"We have dedicated this week's episode of Mind Your Business to answering that question, with discussion straight from the community leaders that are working in the ever-evolving trenches of Hurricane Helene recovery.This week's panel of guests include:Casey Gilbert, Vice President of Public Policy, Asheville Chamber of CommerceKim Effler, President/CEO, McDowell Chamber of CommerceRobin Morgan, Executive Director, Avery County Chamber of CommerceKitty Honeycutt, Executive Director, Ashe County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center.Panel moderated by David Jackson, President/CEO, Boone Area Chamber of CommerceOur panel will discuss current conditions in each community, silver linings that have developed since the storm, and how can people provide impactful help at this time.Each community is working on local fundrasing initiatives for individual and business support:Asheville Chamber of Commerce: - Mountain Strong Fund for Small Business Recovery McDowell County Chamber of Commerce - Hurricane Helene Business ReliefAvery County Chamber of Commerce - Avery County Business Recovery FundAshe County Chamber of Commerce - Ashe County Advantage ProjectBoone Area Chamber of Commerce - Hurricane Helene Business Resiliency Disaster GrantsMind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The show is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

So, why not add an election on to the list of "things we are dealing with," in our local economy? Election transition always brings changes that impact our economy, but that is especially magnified when there is change at the top of the ticket.On this week's Mind Your Business, we have our quarterly chat with Jonathan Allen of Allen Wealth Management. We'll discuss the potential economics of a second Trump Presidency, which includes a comparison to the normal influences when a Republican is in the White House. We'll also discuss impacts on tax policy along with some end of 2024 tax strategies that you may want to consider as the year comes to a close.In addition, we discuss upcoming grant deadlines, including a new grant from Lowe's Hardware.Mind Your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

Welcome back!! Thanks for staying tuned to Mind Your Business during this time of hurricane recovery. We are excited to be back on our regular recording schedule.On this week's episode, we will provide updates on the timeline for disaster recovery dollars that are being allocated to our region from Federal and State resources. We'll also provide an update on the application process for the Chamber Foundation's Business Resiliency Disaster Grant program.Our guests on this week's show include a collection of FEMA team members based here in Watauga County. We'll hear about an upcoming deadline for the Individual Assistance Program, as well as answers to some frequently asked questions about the application process.Mind Your Business is produced when we don't have natural disasters by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The show is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

Latest updates from the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce regarding community response needs.Support the show

Candidates for Watauga County CommissionersDistrict 3Braxton Eggers (R)Jon Council (U)District 4Charlie Wallin (D) (I)Ronnie Marsh (R)District 5Sue Sweeting (D)Todd Castle (R)Support the show

Candidates for Watauga County Board of EducationMarshall Ashcraft (I)Chad ColeAdam HegeAllison IdolCharlotte Mizelle LloydTom RossSupport the show

Candidates for US House of RepresentativesChuck Hubbard (D)Virginia Foxx (R) (I)Support the show

NC House & SenateHouse District 93Ben Massey (D)Ray Pickett (R) (I)Support the show

The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce has been busy over these last few weeks!On this week's Mind Your Business, we bring you a recap from the 2024 Spirit of Boone Annual Membership gathering, complete with an audio tribute to our nine community award winners.We also share some post-event details on the 2024 Meet the Candidates forum, including information on where you can find archives of those important conversations.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate. Support the show

The impact of funding for childcare across North Carolina has a ripple effect that is felt across nearly every business across the State. Locally, childcare centers are trying to meet the needs of families, and the local workforce, while funding challenges still impact day-to-day operations.On this week's Mind Your Business, we visit with Elisha Childers and Virginia Ford from the Children's Council of Watauga County. We'll hear an update on the release of Stabilization Grant money to childcare centers across the State, as well as data on the impact instability within this industry has on businesses. We'll also hear about a special football-focused fundraiser The Children's Council has planned for later in September, offering the community a way to further support their mission.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

This episode can't be any more "chamber," if it tried!On this week's Mind Your Business, we focus on some key timing around open enrollment for health insurance. Wayne Randall, Director of the Boone Center for Blue Cross & Blue Shield of North Carolina will go over dates and details. This is helpful information for employers to share with employees who don't qualify for family coverage through an employer plan, or if you don't offer health insurance to employees.We also bring a new feature into this week's episode, focused on updates on community projects and Chamber advocacy positions. Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The show is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

Everyone else is going back to school -- maybe you should too! The Watauga Leadership Institute presents Encore, its latest professional development program aimed at helping people continue their journey in leadership. While this class may not keep you in school all day, or present an avenue to enjoy that tasty square pizza, it will provide leadership topics in a digestible 90-minute format that is geared toward continuing your education.On this week's Mind Your Business, we visit with Dr. Jim Street, owner of Ridgeline Leadership and curriculum coordinator for the Chamber's Watauga Leadership Institute. He'd discuss the premise behind Encore, who the course is designed to reach, while also elaborating on the value of continuing education for aspiring leaders.Mind Your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The show is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate. Support the Show.

Election season is fast approaching, and more conversation about election process and integrity has become part of our daily lives than ever before.On this week's Mind Your Business, we visit with Matt Snyder, Director of the Watauga County Board of Elections. He will provide details on the voting process for Watauga County Commissioner in the 2024 election, along with the specifics of a ballot referendum that could have an impact on future commissioner elections. We'll also discuss a special Open House that will be held in Boone August 21st, hosted by the NC Network for Fair, Safe, and Secure elections.As a reminder, the Boone Area and Blowing Rock Chambers of Commerce will host our annual Meet the Candidates Forum on Monday, September 16th, beginning at 5:30PM at the Appalachian Theatre in Downtown Boone.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

Yesterday, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announced that the federal funds rate will hold steady -- for now. Is a long-anticipated change to interest rates on the horizon? If so, what does that mean for us here in Northwest North Carolina?On this week's Mind Your Business, we bring you are most timely quarterly check-in with Jonathan Allen of Allen Wealth Management. On the heels of the Fed announcement, what are the impacts on our day-to-day business and personal financial lives. We are also less than 100 days from the 2024 election, and we'll discuss the potential impacts of November's aftermath on the financial outlook moving toward 2025.This week we also provide the latest update on the Town of Boone's recent Downtown Parking Brainstorming sessions, including future timelines for more public discussion.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. Our program is made possible each week thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

Been out and about this summer and feel a little detached from the goings on of Boone and the High Country?  On this week's Mind Your Business, get updates on community conversations focused on parking and childcare. Plus, get the scoop on upcoming Chamber events like the Meet the Candidates Forum and Spirit of Boone. We will also share information about Encore, a new offering from the Watauga Leadership Institute. Tune in for all the details! Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce.  The show is made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate. Support the Show.

Access to healthcare is one of the most important topics people consider when moving to a new area. We have been fortunate to see heathcare evolve in a positive way here in the mountains of northwest North Carolina, with new practices bringing service enhancements to our area that benefit all ages and health conditions.On this week's Mind Your Business, we highlight Wonder Pelvic Therapy & Wellness, which opened their doors in October 2023, bringing a new service to the High Country that is prevalent in other parts of the country. We'll get the details on the practice from co-owners Erin Wonder and Tiffany Weitzen, along with an in-depth explanation into the emergence and health benefits of pelvic floor therapy. We'll also discuss how this practice is furthering the conversation about women's heathcare needs and access here in the High Country.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The show is made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate. Support the Show.

BONUS CONTENT ALERT!! The North Carolina General Assembly is in recess and we have a few short updates about what has transpired in Raleigh over the past few weeks and months.The main focus of this bonus installment of Mind Your Business centers around Early Childhood Education, and action taken by the NC House and Senate to extend compensation grants, or stabilization grants, to the end of the calendar year. This action saved a MAJOR disruption in early childhood services across the State, while also buying time for more conversation as the budget process continues. Halee Hartley, Owner of Kid Cove here in Watauga County, is part of a team of early childhood advocates that has spent a good deal of time in Raleigh working on this important issue. She updates us on what happened, what it means, and how we can be involved in what comes next as early childhood education remains top of mind with NC legislators.Mind Your Business is a weekly (and sometimes daily) production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. Our show is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Bills discussed on the show:NC Senate Joint Resolution 916(adjournment) NC Senate Bill 912 (Watauga County Board of Education Districts)NC Senate Bill 357 (adjustments to current appropriations -- compensation grants)Support the Show.

The Round-Up for the Greenway is an annual community-wide fundraiser partnering with local Watauga County businesses to help fund the continued construction of the Middle Fork Greenway, a project of the Blue Ridge Conservancy. During the month of July, businesses ask their customers to Round Up to the nearest dollar. Last year, 56 local businesses, plus hundreds of individual community donations, raised a total of $252,576. These funds were matched by state grants for the construction of Boone Gorge Park, which is slated to begin later this year. Once developed, Watauga County will own and maintain this park along the Middle Fork Greenway.On this week's Mind Your Business, we'll get an update on current trail development from Wendy Patoprsty, Middle Fork Greenway Director, and hear about the specific projects this year's Round Up will help fund. ** SPECIAL ANNOUNCMENT** Stay tuned to the end of the episode for details on how businesses that do not have a high volume of daily transactions or retail traffic can join forces with the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation to donate to this year's Round Up!Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. It's made possible each week through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

Call this the Town of Boone episode of Mind Your Business, as the bulk of the program is dedicated to the Boone Next project, a revisioning of the Town's Comprehensive Development plan. This week we hear from Jane Shook, Director of Planning & Inspections, and Jessica Mitchell, Advanced Planning Specialist, with the Town of Boone. They update the timeline on this important project, what types of information has been gathered thus far, and how the community can continue to lend their voice to this effort.We are also coming off Boonerang 3.0, with well over 10,000 visitors fresh off an experience that combines nostalgia with arts and entertainment. We'll hear some updates on the weekend that was and share next year's dates!We also have some information to share regarding parking on the App State campus and in and around the Downtown Community, again, with details on how the community can stay engaged in this important conversation.Mind Your Business is produced each week by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

Summer tourism season is in full swing in the High Country! Yes, there may be extra traffic, but in a community that's built on volume, the summer dollars mean our favorite local businesses can afford to operate year-around.On this week's episode of Mind Your Business we examine the impact of the tourism economy on our local community. How do tourism partners work together to create "experiences." How do tourism dollars benefit our community all year long? What are the impacts of the summer season on the local workforce? We answer these questions through the perspectives and experiences of three guests:Wright Tilley, Executive Director, Explore BooneSteve Moize, Operations Director, Sky Valley Zip Tours & Mountain Cat Offroad AdventuresTara Brossa, General Manager of the Courtyard by Marriott of Boone & Hampton Inn & Suites of Boone.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

Integration of AI and emerging technology are on just about every channel, pretty much all the time! How do small businesses and their employees begin to use these tools to their advantage? What are the simplest ways to turn efficiency into effectivness when it comes to "learning new things," in the technology arena.We got to these questions and many more during last month's Vision Northwest North Carolina summit. On this week's Mind Your Business, we recap the "best of the best" conversations from that event including portions of:Crafting an AI-Native Business: Essential Skills for the New Frontier - featuring Keynote Presenter: Zach Giglio, GCMThe Impact of AI & Technology on Workforce Readiness - featuring panelists Panelists Lane Freeman, Director of Online Learning, NC Community College System; Rick Shew, Associate Dean Business & Career Services, Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute; Lucas Underwood, Owner, L&N Performance Automotive Repair Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is produced thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

There's a new bank in town! A few weeks ago, we celebrated the grand opening of the new full-service branch of New People's Bank in Boone. After operating a loan production office in the High Country for a few years, they have settled into their new location on Wilson Drive in the Winkler's Crossing shopping center!On this week's Mind Your Business, we speak with J.W. Kiser, President of New People's Bank, about the bank's attraction of North Carolina and the Boone market. We'll also get an update on important economic trends and influences to consider as we move into another busy time in our calendar.Mind Your Business is a weekly (for the most part) production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

Spring has arrived in the High Country and that means festival season is here! Boonerang is back for year three, with new and expanded features that will bring thousands of festival enthusiasts to the streets of Downtown Boone, June 13-15, 2024.On this week's Mind Your Business we visit with Mark Freed, Director of Cultural Resources for the Town of Boone, and Boonerang's lead organizer. He'll discuss the festival's new features for 2024, which include an expanded schedule for the popular ECRS South Depot Stage. We'll also hear more about the artist lineup, volunteer opportunities, and how the festival continues to attract "Boonies" to the High Country beyond just this one weekend.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The show is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the Show.

Ater several months of research and over 700 points of stakeholder engagement, the Watauga County Childcare Study is complete.On this week's Mind Your Business, we breakdown the numbers that relate to the key county demographics and trends that fuel the need for early childhood and afterschool care in Watauga County. We'll then get further context on the numbers from Cyndi Dancy, Founder & Principal of Dancy Research, which is the firm that conducted this important study. Hear about trends, updated information on gaps in childcare, how many workers would return to the workforce if capacity and affordability are addressed, and how the community can move forward with solutions that will have a positive impact on this key community resource.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The show is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

We are inching closer to the 8th annual Boone Area Chamber of Commerce 4 Under 40 Awards. This year's event takes place at the historic Appalachian Theatre of the High Country, Thursday, April 24th, with a full red-carpet experience beginning at 5:30PM. You can read more about this year's event and our 16 honorees here.Before we recognize the 4 Under 40 class of 2024, we thought you might find inspiration from hearing an update on some of our honorees of the past. On this week's Mind Your Business, we connect with:Dr. Caleb Marsh, 4 Under 40 Class of 2017, and current Dean of the Ashe Campus of Wilkes Community College.Danielle Wade, 4 Under 40 Class of 2019, and current President/CEO of Jackson Sumner & Associates.Anthony Brumfield, 4 Under 40 Class of 2017, and current owner of Infinite ScopeCaroline Poteat, 4 Under 40 Class of 2022, and law student at the University of North Carolina.We'll hear about what's transpired professionally for each since being recognized, how their leadership style has evolved, what do they study to continue pushing their own leadership journey forward, and what advice they have for the leaders of tomorrow.Mind Your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The program is made possible thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show