What an exciting week within the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce office and throughout Sampson County. This Saturday, Sept. 22, marks the first day of fall, and while I enjoy all of the seasons North Carolina has to offer, I must say, autumn is my favorite. I enjoy the change in the weather, the change in color in the leaves on the trees and in the scenery. As with each day in autumn filled with change, growth, and opportunity, this week has been filled with opportunities to network, find economic growth, and, of course, grow and learn.

This past Tuesday, David Jenkins with Edward Jones Investment held an investor education presentation with Barbara Bennett, N.C. Secretary of State, Securities Division. This free public service, held in Roseboro, discussed how to recognize scams, fraud, and abuse. Ms. Bennett continued by discussing the warning signs of potential investment, how many scam victims are found, and more. What a great opportunity for the community!

Also on Tuesday, the first Available Properties Open House event was held in downtown Clinton. The Chamber was honored to be a part of this committee in preparation for this event. The focus of this event was to promote downtown Clinton properties and properties all throughout Sampson County, in order to encourage others to recognize which properties are available and ready for economic growth. Throughout the evening, I had the opportunity to visit a few of the downtown properties and I am very excited about the potential each property holds. As this event continues to grow and evolve each year, the Chamber is excited to be a part of this opportunity.

This Thursday we begin our 2012-2013 Clinton Sampson Leadership class with an opening reception. The Leadership Program is designed to provide a continuous, diverse supply of creative leaders to the county by developing their knowledge of the community and providing them with the opportunity for meaningful action. The eight month program is designed to provide leaders broad exposure to issues and opportunities facing Sampson County as well as meet our need for the active involvement of diverse, informed, and responsible community leaders. The opening reception will be filled with this year’s participants, Chamber sponsors, Chamber board of directors, and alumni of the program. We are looking forward to a great program this year and in years to come.

If you, your business, or organization would like to get involved with the change, growth, and opportunities the Chamber has to offer, give us a call at 592-6177 or visit our website at www.clintonsampsonchamber.org. We look forward to “working together for total community development” as together, we continue our journey.