From Press, Staff Reports

The Webster County Development Council is encouraging members to renew their memberships and non-members to participate in the county's future by joining the organization.

The goal of the council is to help see Webster County have more jobs; improve education; improve infrastructure; have greater unity, community development and civic improvement; and have a vision for the future.

"Working together, we can accomplish much," said Executive Director Steve Anderson.

The council is working to improve the economic well-being of the Webster County through job creation, job retention and quality of life.

"An organization is only as good as its volunteers," Anderson said. "The WCDC needs good volunteers to work for the future. Join today and get involved to make Webster County a better place to live and work."

Members of the WCDC benefit from a variety of programs and activities while supporting the continued growth and economic vitality of the community. Without the help of members, Anderson said improvements to the county's economic development landscape would not be possible.

Standing committees offer opportunities to work with other positive, active, probusiness peers. Committees include Education, Infrastructure, Community Development, Technology, Business Incubator, Allied Health Professional, Job Creation, Leadership and Communication, Membership and Job Fair.

Also, a joint meeting of all "Vision to Action" committees will be at 7 p.m. Jan. 26 at the Eupora Depot.

The WCDC offers mailing lists for use exclusively by its members. Members may market their products and services to other members and to new residents. Call the WCDC office to get a complimentary set of mailing labels.

The WCDC will plan and promote ribbon cuttings and groundbreaking ceremonies for new business facilities.

Business referrals from the organization are also offered. All inquiries for business services are directed to WCDC members.

Another benefit includes bulk mailing discounts. A bulk mailing stamp is available to WCDC members at no charge and provides a tremendous savings on mailings.

Group discounts on long distance are also available. Members can save up to 75 percent on their in-state and out-of-state long distance.

Business listings are available on the WCDC Web site. The council will list one's business and Web site on its site.

In addition, Anderson said members get the satisfaction of joining a group of businesses and individuals that desire to raise the standard of living for Webster County through economic development.

Dues are $50 for an individual, $100 for a business with one-10 employees, $200 for a business with 11-75 employees and $300 for a business with 76 or more employees.

Dues to support the economic development of Webster County may be mailed to the WCDC at P.O. Box 542, Eupora, MS 39744.

Anyone with questions may call Anderson at 258-7532.