Milton chamber welcomes Executive Director Terri Fox

A public event in Milton March 8 gave business owners, stakeholders, community leaders, and residents the opportunity to meet the new executive director of the Milton Chamber of Commerce, Terri Fox.

This networking opportunity resulted in a packed house in the banquet room at Irish Eyes in the heart of Milton. The diverse group that attended did not hesitate to interact with each other in a social and welcoming environment regarding the state of Milton's Chamber and brainstorm ways to continue the exponential growth of small to big businesses in the town.

"We need to continue to bring our community together in all aspects," said Fox.

Fox was introduced officially by the chamber board of trustees. She brings with her a diverse and extensive background making her more than qualified for the position.

Fox has experience and a background in recruiting volunteers, special events planning, graphic design, as well as previously owning multiple businesses in North Carolina prior to moving to Milton.

Possessing these skills along with her own personal experiences with owning multiple businesses, Fox knows the issues that businesses may face in a rural town environment. Her wealth of knowledge and experience does not stop there, as she has worked with many nonprofit organizations and different sectors of the tourism industry.

The new executive director has wasted no time meeting with business owners in the community to help address problems that are occurring or identifying trends that need to be improved upon.

She has taken a hands-on, face-to-face approach which was evident at the event as Fox spoke with business owners throughout the dining area as they were treated to refreshments and hors d'oeuvres.

"The Milton Chamber is a vital part of our community, and our town supports it wholeheartedly," Mayor Ted Kanakos noted.

The mayor was in attendance as well as other elected officials, interacting with business owners and community members to hear their praises and concerns. Kanakos made his rounds, like Fox, making sure that he did not miss speaking with one single person in the room.

He echoed the importance of connecting a bridge between business and community members to yield successful growth economically and socially in the community.

Marie Mayor of Lavender Fields at Warrington Manor explained the rich history of Milton, and how businesses, administration, other divisions within the town such as the arts guild, and community members have worked tirelessly to continue the positive growth within Milton, and create a great place to live.

"We live in such an active and eclectic community, I couldn't have imagined a more welcoming town," said Keith Steck, a new Milton resident.

Not only did those involved with business attend, but many members of the community made it a point of emphasis to interact with the Milton Chamber firsthand. Business owners and county employees made sure to hear from residents, as creating an open conversation regarding economic growth, and positive and diverse social development are the main goals of the chamber moving forward.

Anne Buck of the Milton Arts Guild was in attendance creating dialogue about how business and arts in the community go hand in hand. She encourages more people to get involved in not only the arts, but other aspects of the community that they are passionate about.

Fox hopes to make these types of occasions much more frequent moving forward. The importance of collaboration is what makes Milton "Hip and Historic."

For more information regarding future events, go to www.historicmilton.com.