Podcasts about watauga county

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

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

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

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

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

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

Through her engaging storytelling, a Watauga County writer has shined a spotlight on many of the world's natural wonders. In her latest book, she illuminates nature's unsung hero: the dark. Email us at podcast@ourstate.com Join The New York Times best-selling author and North Carolina native Wiley Cash as he highlights great writers across the state and their work each month. Listen in on conversations between Cash and his author friends as they discuss how North Carolina inspires them on the Our State Book Club podcast.

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

Send us a textFor Today's NC Travel Chat, we focus on Watauga County, North Carolina, which includes Boone, Blowing Rock, and other places that Emily and her colleagues at Explore Boone market to the world. Shoutouts and Helpful LinksExplore Boone: exploreboone.comVoluntourism Opportunities in Boone: exploreboone.com/boone-sustainability/voluntourism-opportunitiesBoone Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation: boonechamber.com/foundationCoyote Kitchen: coyotekitchen.comSamaritans Purse: samaritanspurse.orgBeacon Heights: nctripping.com/beacon-heights-overlook-trailMoses Cone Memorial Park: nctripping.com/moses-cone-memorial-parkBlue Ridge Conservancy: blueridgeconservancy.orgRiver Girl Fishing Company: rivergirlfishing.comElk Knob State Park: nctripping.com/elk-knob-state-parkHospitality House of NWNC: hosphouse.org/aboutFARM Cafe: farmcafe.orgBlue Ridge Women in Ag: brwia.orgAppalchian Ski Mountain: appskimtn.comSugar Mountain Resort: skisugar.comBeech Mountain Resort: beechmountainresort.comHawksnest Snow Tubing: hawksnesttubing.comChoose n Cut Christmas Trees in Boone: exploreboone.com/outdoors/farms-agriculture/christmas-treesTweetsie Christmas: nctripping.com/tweetsie-christmasVisit Us at NCTripping.com to Plan Your North Carolina Travels!

Through her engaging storytelling, a Watauga County writer has shined a spotlight on many of the world's natural wonders. In her latest book, she illuminates nature's unsung hero: the dark. Email us at podcast@ourstate.com Join The New York Times best-selling author and North Carolina native Wiley Cash as he highlights great writers across the state and their work each month. Listen in on conversations between Cash and his author friends as they discuss how North Carolina inspires them on the Our State Book Club podcast.

In this election day special, Jason talks with Jon Council, candidate for County Commissioner 3 in Watauga County of Western NC (Jason's home county) and Sarah Davis, his campaign manager, to talk about local issues in the region, including environmental protection, affordable housing for the working class, and mutual aid. In particular they talk about the impacts of Hurricane Helene in the region, how it changed the nature of their campaign into one of disaster relief organizing, and the challenges and opportunities moving forward. They are both active members with Down Home NC (https://downhomenc.org/ ) and it's local chapter Keep WNC (and Watauga) Home (https://keepwnchome.org/ ) A profile of Sarah Davis can be found here: https://medium.com/reclaiming-rural/calling-watauga-home-a8608d9d36d7 Jon's campaign website can be found here: https://www.councilforwatauga.com/ About Jon: Born and raised in North Carolina, I have grown to appreciate the diverse communities and nature that surround us, especially here in the High Country. My wife and I have lived on the Watauga River for the past six years after living and working in other communities around the area.  We have witnessed firsthand the areas where our local government has fallen short. Our county's working people deserve access to safe and affordable housing, environmental protections, clean water, a voice on our local boards, and much more. I have faced these same issues daily and am dedicated to making a difference for our county. I aim to become a public servant, not a politician. To learn more about my involvement in our community and the issues I am running on, check out this interview with the national publication, Barn Raiser Media (https://barnraisingmedia.com/appalachia-carpenter-watauga-county-development-organizing-minimum-housing-standards/ )

Our hearts are with the families and communities in our beloved North Carolina mountains, who have been devastated by this catastrophic hurricane. These towns, which have always been a source of pride and inspiration for us all, now face a long and difficult path to recovering. Our October issue — traditionally a celebration of the mountains — now serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that is needed in this challenging time. We're especially grateful for the dedication of emergency personnel, first responders, and volunteers who are on the ground, helping in any way they can. We suggest reaching out to these relief and recovery organizations that need our help, including: American Red Cross: 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word “HELENE” to 90999 to make a $10 donation; redcross.org North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund – Helene Emergency Disaster Services of The Salvation Army Feeding the Carolinas Samaritan's Purse Disaster Relief Other media organizations in North Carolina have also offered suggestions: Blue Ridge Public Radio The Asheville Citizen Times WFAE In addition, check with your local churches and community organizations to see how they are assisting with relief efforts. North Carolinians pull together. And we pull through. This week, and in the weeks to come, we're preparing for the fight ahead. __________________________________________________________________________________ Before becoming an award-winning author, Ron Rash tended the cemetery near his family's Watauga County farm. His latest novel, inspired by that burial ground, explores the relationship between the living and the dead, and how those who've gone are never forgotten. Email us at podcast@ourstate.com Join The New York Times best-selling author and North Carolina native Wiley Cash as he highlights great writers across the state and their work each month. Listen in on conversations between Cash and his author friends as they discuss how North Carolina inspires them on the Our State Book Club podcast.

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

Our hearts are with the families and communities in our beloved North Carolina mountains, who have been devastated by this catastrophic hurricane. These towns, which have always been a source of pride and inspiration for us all, now face a long and difficult path to recovering. Our October issue — traditionally a celebration of the mountains — now serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that is needed in this challenging time. We're especially grateful for the dedication of emergency personnel, first responders, and volunteers who are on the ground, helping in any way they can. We suggest reaching out to these relief and recovery organizations that need our help, including: American Red Cross: 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word “HELENE” to 90999 to make a $10 donation; redcross.org North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund – Helene Emergency Disaster Services of The Salvation Army Feeding the Carolinas Samaritan's Purse Disaster Relief Other media organizations in North Carolina have also offered suggestions: Blue Ridge Public Radio The Asheville Citizen Times WFAE In addition, check with your local churches and community organizations to see how they are assisting with relief efforts. North Carolinians pull together. And we pull through. This week, and in the weeks to come, we're preparing for the fight ahead. __________________________________________________________________________________ Before becoming an award-winning author, Ron Rash tended the cemetery near his family's Watauga County farm. His latest novel, inspired by that burial ground, explores the relationship between the living and the dead, and how those who've gone are never forgotten. Email us at podcast@ourstate.com Join The New York Times best-selling author and North Carolina native Wiley Cash as he highlights great writers across the state and their work each month. Listen in on conversations between Cash and his author friends as they discuss how North Carolina inspires them on the Our State Book Club podcast.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Michael Whatley, Republican National Committee Chairman, joins Liberty & Justice with Matt Whitaker, Season 3, Episode 10.  Presented by American Cornerstone Institute.  Learn more about ACI at https://americancornerstone.org/  Watch every episode of Liberty & Justice at www.whitaker.tv. Michael Whatley was elected Chairman of the Republican National Committee on March 8, 2024.  Originally from Watauga County, North Carolina, Michael Whatley previously served as the Chairman of the North Carolina Republican Party and the General Counsel for the Republican National Committee.  Prior to his service with the Republican Party, Chairman Whatley served as a federal law clerk, senior official in the George W. Bush Administration and as the Chief of Staff for US Senator Elizabeth Dole, R-NC.  He also served as a Senior Advisor to the Bush-Cheney Campaign, Florida Recount and Transition Teams, as well as the Trump-Pence Campaign and Transition Teams. Whatley earned a History degree from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Masters in Religion from Wake Forest University before graduating from the University of Notre Dame with both a law degree and Masters in Theology.  Matthew G. Whitaker was acting Attorney General of the United States (2018-2019).  Prior to becoming acting Attorney General, Mr. Whitaker served as Chief of Staff to the Attorney General. He was appointed as the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Iowa by President George W. Bush, serving from 2004-2009. Whitaker was the managing partner of Des Moines-based law firm, Whitaker Hagenow & Gustoff LLP from 2009 until rejoining DOJ in 2017. He was also the Executive Director for FACT, The Foundation for Accountability & Civic Trust, an ethics and accountability watchdog, between 2014 and 2017.   Mr. Whitaker is the Author of the book--Above the Law, The Inside Story of How the Justice Department Tried to Subvert President Trump.  Buy Matt's book here: https://amzn.to/3IXUOb8 Mr. Whitaker graduated with a Master of Business Administration, Juris Doctor, and Bachelor of Arts from the University of Iowa.  While at Iowa, Mr. Whitaker was a three-year letterman on the football team where he received the prestigious Big Ten Medal of Honor. Mr. Whitaker is now a Senior Fellow with the American Cornerstone Institute, Co-Chair of the Center for Law and Justice at America First Policy Institute and a Senior Fellow at the American Conservative Union Foundation. Matt is on the Board of Directors for America First Legal Foundation. He is also Of Counsel with the Graves Garrett law firm.  Whitaker appears regularly to discuss legal and political issues on Fox News, Newsmax and other news outlets. 

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

Financial information comes at you from many directions and in many flavors in today's economy. What are the indicators and trends that speak best to the day-to-day realities of business and personal life in Watauga County? What trends should we pay attention to as it relates to the next big shift? Simply asked, "What's Going On with the Economy?"On this week's Mind Your Business, we present our quarterly check-in with Jonathan Allen of Allen Wealth Management. We talk taxes, interest rates, inflation, and we even work in some discussion about the value of cold, hard cash in today's economic landscape. We'll asl discuss indicators, and what we should be paying attention to here in Northwest North Carolina as it relates to our individual financial picture.Mind Your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

Positive connections between communities make a region like the High Country stronger. Partnership on one project can lead to future dialogue about other collaborative opportunities. The more we work to connect our local towns, counties, and their governmental entities, the better the chance for businesses and individuals to find similar ways to work with one another.The Blue Ridge Conservancy works each day to protect and preserve the places we love throughout the High Country. Unique projects like the Middle Fork Greenway, which will connect Boone and Blowing Rock with 6.5 miles of greenway trail along the middle fork of the New River, bring a physical connection to two towns that already work with one another on a variety of projects. The physical linkage between the two will only enhance the case for future partnerships between Watauga County's two largest municipalities. On this week's Mind Your Business, we learn more about a similar project, the Northern Peaks State Trail, that will one day connect Downtown Boone to Downtown West Jefferson. This project includes the permanent protection of an important High Country viewshed and will foster more access points to public lands that include several of the area's most scenic settings. Jordan Sellers, Northern Peaks State Trail for Blue Ridge Conservancy, tells us how the project came together, how environmental stewardship plays into the trail's development, and how the trail will positively impact the towns of Boone and West Jefferson. Mind Your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and is made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

BONUS CONTENT!!!On this special episode of Mind Your Business, we visit with Matt Snyder, Director of the Watauga County Board of Elections about the upcoming 2024 Primary election. Hear specifics about early voting ahead of the March 5th election, polling site and voter ID information, changes to districts for the upcoming Watauga County Commissioners races, and plenty more.Mind Your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and is made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

The ability to access affordable childcare in Watauga County remains as much a part of the conversation around economic prosperity as accessing affordable housing. Even if you don't have a child that requires childcare, chances are you work with someone that does, and workforce reliability remains an important topic for all to consider. Also, from a workforce retention standpoint, employers that remain educated about the opportunities and challenges that staff members are facing when it comes to finding childcare are more likely to retain employees when they align resources and policies in ways that are supportiveOn this week's Mind Your Business, we visit with Virginia Ford and Wes Berry of The Children's Council of Watauga County and Halee Hartley, Owner of Kid Cove, as we discuss the current State of Childcare in Watauga County, and how agencies, businesses, and local government are all working together to improve circumstances for children, their families, and the workforce that drives the industry.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and is made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

The residential real estate market is one of the most complex, and at times frustrating aspects of our local economy. The need for housing of all types and price points, for sale and rent, remains a pressing workforce challenge. Stacie Pineda of the Stacie Pineda Real Estate Group joins us on this week's Mind Your Business to answer the question: "What's Up with Residential Real Estate." She'll discuss current inventory and it's impact on prices, how cash buyers and interest rates are influencing activity, and what advice she has for those selling or buying in today's market. Mind Your Business is produced each week by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce, and made possible through the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

As part of the 8th annual High Country Economic Kickoff Luncheon, the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce was pleased to present the 2023 Watauga County Business of the Year awards. This ceremony was presented thanks to the support of Carolina Mountain Title.On this week's Mind Your Business, we revisit the podium speeches from each of our winners, which could possibly serve as motivation for those that are charting their own progress for 2024.Mind Your Business is a weekly production of the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. It's presented each week thanks to the sponsorship support of Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

Tis the season for lists and goals...and lists of goals! The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce does not want to leave fans of the Mind Your Business Podcast disappointed, so we start a new season of our program with a list of the Top 5 storylines we are watching heading into 2024.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate.Support the show

During its scheduled meeting Tuesday, October 3, the Watauga County Board of Commissioners granted approval for the Watauga Economic Development Commission to conduct a comprehensive study and analysis of childcare in the county. The study will be conducted by Dancy Research, a North Carolina-based economic development research firm, who recently conducted a similar study for the Wilkes County Economic Development Commission. Cyndi Dancy, Owner and Principal, will team with Dr. Pamela Shue, an Associate Professor for in the Department of Family and Child Studies at Appalachian State University to conduct the research. They will use a collaborative and economic approach to gather pertinent information from statistical sources and stakeholders, identify gaps in service, and make recommendations of action steps to fill those gaps. The full study is projected to take seven months to complete.On this week's Mind Your Business, we talk with Cyndi Dancy about how this type of data collection and community survey can help make the case for further work and investment on this important project. She'll also outline how  data will be collected and ways for the community to engage in the process.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by UNC Health Appalachian.Support the show

Boone Town Council incumbent candidate Dalton George visits with Boone Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO David Jackson in advance of the  2023 Town of Boone municipal election.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by UNC Health Appalachian.Support the show

Boone Town Council incumbent candidate Edie Tugman visits with Boone Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO David Jackson in advance of the  2023 Town of Boone municipal election.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by UNC Health Appalachian.Support the show

Boone Town Council candidate Eric Plaag visits with Boone Area Chamber of Commerce President/CEO David Jackson in advance of the 2023 Town of Boone municipal election.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by UNC Health Appalachian.Support the show

On Friday, September 22nd, the North Carolina General Assembly have final approval to NC House Bill 529, the Current Operations Act of 2023. More commonly referred to as the 2023-25 NC State budget, this document includes a number of well publicized spending priorities, like raises for State employees and educators, early childhood development, and affordable housing. The passing of the budget also triggered Medicaid Expansion for North Carolina, which will go into effect December 1st, and stands to benefit patients and heath care providers across the State.Statewide priorities are only part of the story, and on this week's Mind Your Business, NC House District 93 Representative Ray Pickett provides an update on specific budget inclusions that will have a direct impact on Watauga County. He also discusses NC General Assembly priorities, such as enrollment growth for Appalachian State University, future budget wishes, and plenty more.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by UNC Health Appalachian. Support the show

The 11th annual Back 2 School Festival is coming up Saturday, August 12th, benefiting school-aged children and families in Watauga County.On this week's Mind Your Business, we visit with members of the Back 2 School Festival organizing team to get the latest details on this year's event, including distribution schedule, details on shoes and haircuts, and how community members can support this project throughout the year.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. This podcast is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by Appalachian Regional Healthcare System.Support the show

In 2018, Brad Moretz and Brenda Speckmann of Appalachian Ski Mountain initiated the Round-Up for the Middle Fork Greenway - a way to engage businesses in a month-long fundraiser for the up-and-coming Greenway project. That first year was a success, and since then, community businesses and individuals have rallied behind the Round-Up for the Middle Fork Greenway to raise nearly $700K. This money has leveraged over $5.5 million in state grants and Tourism Development Authority funding for land acquisition, trail construction, trailhead development, design, engineering, permitting, and feasibility studies. The funding has also helped protect 47 acres of land along the greenway, including pocket parks, trailheads, river access, and trail. This year's Round-Up for the Greenway proceeds will go toward constructing Boone Gorge Park. On this week's Mind Your Business, we talk with Wendy Patoprsty, Director of the Middle Fork Greenway for Blue Ridge Conservancy. She provides an update on new and future construction along the corridor, while also sharing specific information on how businesses can participate in this year's round-up.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The radio show airs each Thursday morning at 10:05AM on WATA (1450AM/96.5FM) in the High Country. The podcast version of the program is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by Appalachian Regional Healthcare System. Support the show

Festival season is in full swing in the High Country. After a successful High Country Jazz Festival to start the month of June, all eyes are on the Boonerang Music & Arts Festival, taking place this weekend in Downtown Boone.On June 24th, the 39th season of An Appalachian Summer Festival gets underway, as Leslie Odom, Jr. kicks off the Schaefer Popular Series. Over the next five weeks, world-renowned musicians, performers, artists, and authors will descend upon the High Country with something for all ages.On this week's Mind Your Business, Allison West joins us once again to preview the Schaefer Popular Series while also sharing details on ticket availability for all events.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The radio show airs each Thursday morning at 10:05AM on WATA (1450AM/96.5FM) in the High Country. The podcast version of the program is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by Appalachian Regional Healthcare System. Support the show

Work regarding housing affordability and accessibility in Watauga County continues and the Watauga Community Housing Trust has reemerged as a well-positioned resource in the conversation.On this week's Mind Your Business, we are joined by WCHT Board Chair Ben Loomis, who provides definition around the housing trust model and why this can be a helpful tool in the current Watauga County housing climate. He also will share details on a special fundraising opportunity to help seed the WCHT's first project in a Boone area neighborhood.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The radio show airs each Thursday morning at 10:05AM on WATA (1450AM/96.5FM) in the High Country. The podcast version of the program is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by Appalachian Regional Healthcare System.Support the show

On a cold and snowy day in January of 1994, a land surveyor for the North Carolina Department of Transportation parked his car at the edge of Highway 421 in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. After walking just a few yards away from the side of the road, he was already swallowed up in the deep woods that stretched for miles into Watauga County. Given the cold air and snow underfoot, the surveyor was paying close attention to where he was walking, and hoping that the job would not take long and he'd be back inside his warm vehicle before his toes actually froze. That was, until the man glanced ahead at the fallen tree ahead of him, and before he saw something he just couldn't make sense of peeking out of the snow in the shadow of the upended roots. Squinting, the man took a few steps closer just to make sure his eyes weren't playing tricks on him. A moment later, he dropped the hard, plastic case that contained his surveying equipment and nearly fell backward as he scrambled to get away from the mound of snow in front of him. Then looking desperately through the thick trees for the other members of the survey team, the calm around him was shattered as he started yelling for help.For 100s more stories like these, check out our main YouTube channel just called "MrBallen" -- https://www.youtube.com/c/MrBallenIf you want to reach out to me, contact me on Instagram, Twitter or any other major social media platform, my username on all of them is @mrballenSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The State of North Carolina continues to move through the budgeting process, with the State Senate expected to announce their spending plan within the next few weeks. Funding for early childhood education remains one of the hot topics in this year's budget debate and has been a focal point of budgets released by Governor Roy Cooper and the NC State House.On this week's Mind Your Business, we'll hear an update on the process from Elisha Childers, Executive Director of The Children's Council of Watauga County. We'll also hear about an upcoming fundraiser, A Night at Firerock Station, which will raise money for more targeted family support and early childhood services in Watauga County.Event details: A Night at  Firerock Station Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The radio show airs each Thursday morning at 10:05AM on WATA (1450AM/96.5FM) in the High Country. The podcast version of the program is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by Appalachian Regional Healthcare System.  Support the show

The access and affordability of early childcare has always been an important component to a thriving workforce in Watauga County. With conditions in the labor market already tricky, the last thing our community needs is for it to become even more difficult to find quality childcare for those participating or returning to the workforce.On this week's Mind Your Business, Elisha Childers and Hunter Varipapa  from The Children's Council of Watauga County discuss stabilization grants issued as part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA), and what the looming expiration of those funds means for childcare centers across Watauga County.  Earlier this week, Governor Roy Cooper sent a letter to the North Carolina Congressional delegation outlining the case for intervention at the Federal level. Please visit our Elected Officials Contact page to find contact information should you wish to address this issue with Congresswoman Virginia Foxx or Senators Richard Burr or Thom Tillis. Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The radio show airs each Thursday morning at 10:05AM on WATA (1450AM/96.5FM) in the High Country. The podcast version of the program is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by Appalachian Regional Healthcare System.Support the show

The High Country Real Estate market is... Your answer to that question depends on your perspective. For many, their answer will be laced with some level of frustration. Investors see opportunity, but that comes at the expense of those trying to find affordable solutions across all inventory types. Then comes the issue of availability, and what limited supply does to a market where demand remains high.Our answer to the above prompt...complex!On this week's Mind Your Business, we speak with Stacie Pineda of the Stacie Pineda Real Estate Group. She discuses current market forces and how inventory impacts pricing. She also gives us perspective into the tough conversation realtors are having with both buyers and sellers, as it relates to the specific things they are looking for in their next home.Pineda authored a summary of current residential real estate trends in the latest edition of Economic Indicators, released in early February 2023.Mind your Business is produced weekly by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce. The radio show airs each Thursday morning at 10:05AM on WATA (1450AM/96.5FM) in the High Country. The podcast version of the program is made possible each week by Appalachian Commercial Real Estate and sponsored in part by Appalachian Regional Healthcare System.Support the show