4/23/2012
Paula Flowers Honored By Governor Haley As Economic Ambassador Paula Flowers of Yemassee was honored as South Carolina Ambassador for Economic Development by Gov. Nikki Haley and the South Carolina Department of Commerce at a State House ceremony on April 17th as part of S.C. Industry Appreciation Week. The awards ceremony recognized 51 individuals from all 46 counties who contributed to economic development in their local communities.  Industry Appreciation Week provides an opportunity to recognize county leaders and show appreciation to companies in the state for their many contributions to South Carolina communities, as well as a chance to build awareness among the residents of the state that existing business is a fundamental driver of both the local and state economy. “We are bringing investments and new jobs every day. In South Carolina, we build things. We’re building planes. We’re building automobiles. We’re building tires. We’re bringing in companies we never imagined we’d bring. Recruiting companies is a team effort and our team efforts are only going to continue to get stronger,” said Gov. Nikki Haley at the event. In addition to being recognized by the Governor, Ms. Flowers was chosen by the Hampton County Economic Development Commission and is being recognized by Hampton County Council for her many contributions to the local and regional economy. As the owner of Fletcher’s Finds, Paula Flowers has played a pivotal role in the Yemassee business community, bringing in customers from all of the country who exit Interstate 95 to shop at her charming home décor and gift shop, which features antiques, hand crafted gifts and vintage items. Fletcher’s Finds also houses a deli and catering business serving the locals of the Southern Carolina region of South Carolina, as well as the tourists stopping by. In addition, Ms. Flowers owns and operates the Sloman House, a bed and breakfast located in Yemassee and is the Chairperson of the Yemassee Revitalization Committee. According to Hampton County Council Chairman Hugh Gray, “As the leader of the Yemassee Revitalization Committee, Paula Flowers has served as an official hostess, spokesperson, and cheerleader for Hampton County.” Sandy Fowler, Hampton County’s Economic Development Director, added, “Paula has assisted Hampton County and SouthernCarolina Alliance in hosting many industrial prospects over the last several years. Whenever possible, we take our prospects over to the Sloman House, where Paula and her staff exude Southern hospitality, prepare traditional home-cooked meals, and remind these visitors why Hampton County is such a great place for their companies to call ‘home.’ It’s always the perfect personal touch to add to a site visit.” “Flowers has given her time and talents to revitalizing and beautifying Yemassee,” said Hampton County Administrator and SouthernCarolina Alliance Board Member Sabrina Graham. “ She was one of the key players in recruiting the television series, “The Week the Women Went,” showcasing both Yemassee and Hampton County. Paula parlayed the opportunity of the TV show into the catalyst for renovating the historic Yemassee Train Depot.” Ms. Flowers credits the mayor, town council and the many volunteers for the success of the Yemassee Revitalization Corporation, which continues their renovation work on the train depot, and Flowers is looking forward to the Lifetime Network’s airing of “The Week the Women Went,” a reality show about the Yemassee community, currently scheduled for June of this year. “Paula is the type of partner that any organization would be proud to have,” said SouthernCarolina Alliance Chairman Johnny Williamson. “She has worked closely with our economic development staff at the county and regional levels to welcome prospects, while volunteering in her many community development projects and running several small businesses. ” |
