State Port director speaks to Kiwanis

Karen Fox, North Carolina State Ports Authority Director of Communications, presented the Kiwanis Club of Topsail Island with a power point presentation on the state ports of Morehead City and Wilmington. The mission of the N.C. State Ports Authority is to enhance the economy of the state - it will be managed like a business, focusing on the requirements of customers.

North Carolina's ports will be recognized for their self-sustaining operations, highly efficient workforce, satisfied customers and modern, well-maintained facilities and equipment.

The proposed N.C. international terminal and port expansion projects in Morehead City and Wilmington will make N.C. a key player in international trade, multiplying related jobs and economic impact in the state.

Cargo moving through North Carolina's ports represents critical access to the global marketplace for major businesses and retailers.

Statewide, activities at the ports generate some 85,000 jobs and $299 million annually in state and local tax revenues. Much of this economic impact occurs away from the ports in the interior regions of the state where the cargo is originated or destined.

Pictured joining Fox is Kiwanian Barney and Lee Bryan's grandchildren Patrick, 2nd Lt. and recent graduate of West Point who is assigned to Fort Still, Ok. in the signal corps, and Past Kiwanis President Michael Moore.