Katie Ward, Staff Writer

The annual "Discover Boone" Business Fair is returning to the Grandfather Mountain Ballroom Thursday from 9:00 am until 3:00 pm, providing students with information, job opportunities and door prizes.

Sponsored by the Boone Area Chamber of Commerce and the Appalachian chapter of the American Marketing Association, the fair will showcase 30 -40 local businesses including: Back Yard Burger, Boone Drug, Wachovia Bank, the French- Swiss Ski College and many others.

For the past four to five years, businesses have gathered to share goods and services while providing possible job opportunities.

According to Wes Avett, President of the ASU American Marketing Association, the business fair is advantageous for businesses as well as students.

"This is a good opportunity if you are looking for a job.  Businesses offered several temp(orary) services at last years fair," Avett said.

According to Steven Prewitt, a manager at Back Yard Burger, the fair is an excellent opportunity for their business.  They hope to present the personal side of the restaurant to students, while also exposing themselves to the market.

Appalachian students comprise 85 to 90 percent of Back Yard's employees.  Four have since progressed up the ladder to managerial positions.

"Hiring students is a good way to get young, energetic, ready to learn employees," Prewitt said.

Simply by visiting the vendors, students will also be eligable to win prizes, which have been donated by the individual bussinesses.

Dan Meyer, the Chambers Vice President for Business Affairs, encourages students to attend the business fair, in order to learn about local businesses, where they are, and all that they have to offer.

"I would encourage students to come by and find about what is available.  This is a good opportunity to meet the owners of the businesses as well," Meyer said.

According to Meyer, the Business Fair has been a great success in years past, and he hopes the tradition will continue.
 

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