“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself, any direction you choose” — Dr. Seuss

This past week was filled with expanding our knowledge and challenging ourselves in order to “steer” ourselves in the direction where the vision of the Chamber and Sampson County is prominent in our day to day journey.

This past Sunday through Tuesday, I had the privilege to travel with 13 others from Sampson County, all with the mission of being a voice and to represent Chamber members in Washington D.C.. We were able to hear from a panel of North Carolina business owners about their advancements, opportunities and challenges.

The Chamber and Sampson County is honored that one of those panelist was from Sampson County — Jerol Kivett from Kivett’s in Clinton. Mr. Kivett did a great job representing all Sampson County businesses, discussing what is needed from our leaders in Washington in order to create economic growth. We also were able to network and listen to our North Carolina US representatives, including Rep. Renee Elmers and Rep. Mike McIntyre. The following day, we heard from General James F. Amos, Sen. Kay Hagan, Rep. John Boehner, and other leaders, again discussing the opportunities in advancement but also the challenges each business, organization and individual faces on a day-to-day basis. I am excited to share more with you about our journey in Washington D.C. soon.

As you know, the Chamber takes pride in our involvement with the community and we are excited that the third annual Chamber Coat Closet project is falling into place. This past Wednesday, the committee met to continue to discuss how we can help those in need. We are currently receiving sponsors through 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 28. Sponsorship opportunities are available at three levels and receive recognition throughout the event on all marketing material,ls including social media marketing, radio, newspaper, billboards and more. Contact the Chamber to sponsor the Chamber Coat Closet at 910-592-6177

We invite you to take the challenge and join with us as we steer in the direction to continue to assist others. We will be collecting new and gently used/cleaned coats in all sizes for infants to adults. The collection will begin on Nov. 1, with a Collection Kick-Off Event at Clinton City Market from noon until 6 p.m. filled with local entertainment. Join us in this journey where your donation will help someone in Sampson County and surrounding counties stay warm this winter.

As we continue to expand our knowledge about other businesses and organizations within Sampson County, as well as grow each individual’s network, we invite all Chamber members to join us tonight, Thursday, Sep5. 13 at our Business After Hours and our New Member Showcase hosted by V.F. W. Post 7547 in Clinton. We have had 42 new members since last year’s showcase, which allows new members the opportunity to have an area to display promotional materials as well as speak to the group in order to highlight their business/organization. The evening will be filled with networking, door prizes, appetizers, and creating new relationships in order to grow and expand each Chamber member’s presence within Sampson County. We invite our members to join us and let the Chamber work for you.

If you would like more information about the Chamber, the educational and networking opportunities we offer, membership, and how the Chamber can work for you, give us a call, 592-6177 or visit our website, www.clintonsampsonchamber.org. We look forward to all working together in order to steer ourselves in the direction of economic growth for Sampson County.