Volunteer groups can be good at letting newer members pick up some of the load. But they also need to think bigger - and that requires permission and encouragement from leaders.
I love the team culture that has been created at our chamber and I love the direction this chamber is taking and I appreciate businesses who invest in the future of Clayton.
Tell us about your most embarrassing Chamber moment.
The Chamber had a ribbon cutting on a very windy day. We were outside taking the photo and video. Right at the time of the filming, a gust of wind blew my hair up. If you have seen the movie, "Something About Mary," I looked just like Cameron Diaz. We laughed about it for days.
Who has had the biggest impact on your career and how?
Neal Padgett, President of the Garner Chamber. Neal and I have a mutual friend who knew I was applying for this position. She suggested I contact him so I reached out and he was so helpful. He has continued to be a valuable resource, mentor and now friend.
What is your Chamber's signature event? Tell us more about it...
The Clayton Chamber of Commerce's signature event is The Clayton Harvest Festival. The festival is held downtown and lasts 5 days. There are carnival rides every day, Thursday we have a Clayton Idol Talent Show (side note: Scotty McCreery won this competition in 2009), Friday night we have a kids hot dog contest followed by a movie night in the Town Square , and Saturday is our day long street vendor fair with entertainment in the Town Square and that night there is a concert. Also, we have a pig cooking contest call Squeal'n on the Square all night on Friday night with judging on Saturday. For the first time this year, on Sunday we had Johnston County's first Latin American Festival with vendors, bands and entertainment. Whew, I'm tired just typing it.
What is your favorite vacation destination and why?
My favorite vacation destination Atlantic Beach, NC. We have a house there and once I cross that bridge all my stress fades away.
Tell us more about your family and what you like to do in your spare time...
I am married to my husband, Jack Wooten. We were high school sweethearts and have been married 30 years. We live in Smithfield, NC and we have 2 children, Graham who is 27 and Scott who is 23. This month we just gained a daughter-in- law. Graham and Jenna were married on April 21st.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
