Moonlight on the Cape Fear
My Annual Ambassador Epistle on Why You Should Visit the Old North State (North Carolina)
A few years ago, the State of North Carolina honored me with the Order of the Longleaf Pine. A candidate for the Order is nominated to the Governor for several reasons. One of our U. S. senators did the honors for me. I’m most undeserving, for I believe I have done close to what a servant should do—close. But the Governor awarded me our state’s highest award for public service. I share this background to explain why I’m about to sound like an ambassador for our state. Well, you see, I am (honorary, as no good money is wasted on me). That was part of the award, which is most certainly an honor.
So, at least once yearly, I seek to remind others that living in North Carolina is a high privilege. We enjoy four beautiful seasons, the highest mountains east of the Mississippi, and can rightfully boast of some of the nation’s most beautiful shores. The Piedmont region of North Carolina is not only some of the most fertile land on planet Earth but home to some of the world’s most distinguished higher education institutions. Not to be outdone, our university system includes campuses from the Blue Ridge to the Atlantic. The Research Triangle and Charlotte are home to a remarkable array of businesses engaged in all manner of enterprise. Our state is also home to Samaritan’s Purse, JAARS global missions, and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, just a few of our renowned nonprofits. The Lord has blessed us with solid and active houses of worship throughout our great state. Our healthcare system draws the best and brightest from around the globe. And, by the way, we are rightly proud of our beautiful resorts, hospitality industries, and some good country cooking. Suburban cities like Carey consistently rank among the top in America for quality of life. Our historic small towns offer an enormous range of opportunities.
There are many reasons why North Carolina is a great place to vacation. Here are six:
Beaches: North Carolina has some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast, with miles of sandy shores and crystal-clear waters. Popular beach destinations include Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Outer Banks.
Mountains: If you prefer a more scenic vacation, North Carolina is home to the stunning Appalachian Mountains, which offer breathtaking views, hiking trails, and outdoor adventures. Popular mountain destinations include Asheville, Blowing Rock, and Boone.
History and Culture: North Carolina has a rich history and culture, with attractions like the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial in Wilmington, and the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Kitty Hawk.
Food and Drink: North Carolina is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, with BBQ, fried chicken, and sweet tea being staples. The state is also home to a growing craft beer and wine scene, with many breweries and wineries offering tastings and tours.
Outdoor Activities: From kayaking and canoeing to fishing and rock climbing, North Carolina offers a wide range of outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels. There are also numerous state parks and natural areas to explore.
Entertainment: North Carolina has a vibrant arts and entertainment scene, with many museums, galleries, and theaters to visit. The state is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including the NC State Fair and the Azalea Festival in Wilmington.
Being one of the Thirteen Original Colonies has imparted a rich vein of history, tradition, and magnificent architecture. North Carolina is also made beautiful by our quaint fishing villages of the Outer Banks and our homey mountain rural communities. North Carolina is lovely to live, work, and rear a family. I hope you will consider a vacation to the Tarheel State. Maybe, you should even consider a move here. We can get you naturalized as a North Carolinian in about three to five years! So, if you are a business owner considering relocating or an entrepreneur dreaming of a place to call home, look no further. Our Chamber is as eager to welcome you as our warm, friendly, and talented people. Why should a business come to the Old North State?
Business-Friendly Environment: North Carolina is known for having a business-friendly environment with relatively low taxes and regulations. The state government has implemented policies and programs that are favorable for businesses, such as offering tax incentives, providing funding for innovation and research, and creating partnerships between businesses and educational institutions.
Skilled Workforce: North Carolina is home to several prestigious universities and research centers that provide a large pool of highly skilled and educated workers. The state's workforce is well-trained in fields such as technology, biotech, and finance, making it an ideal location for businesses in these industries.
Quality of Life: North Carolina offers a high quality of life with a mild climate, beautiful scenery, and a wide range of recreational activities. This makes it an attractive location for businesses seeking to attract and retain talented employees. Additionally, the state has a relatively low cost of living compared to other major metropolitan areas, which can make it an affordable place to live and do business.
Finally, for those who would relocate, just wait until you see the smile when you say, “North Carolina.”
I do not write this annual appeal because they gave me a lapel pin and an honorary ambassador gig. I write it because it’s true. But the real honor is one that every North Carolinian enjoys: we get to live here. So why not come and see for yourself? It won’t take long to see what I mean.