Your chamber is always searching for unique methods to advertise and promote Newberry County. That being said, recently we were approached with what we believe to be a novel idea that would be fun for everyone. The idea is to have a Scarecrow competition this coming October. What a great way to get our residents, businesses, non-profits, churches and schools involved, by creating their own scarecrow designed in a scene displaying what they wish the public to see.

Then we would have judges determine a winner in each category. The idea is to have everyone design their scarecrow and have it on display during the month of October. The entries would be judged the first week of the competition and winners announced towards the end of October. This type of endeavor would be a fun adventure, and we feel that when neighboring areas hear about our scarecrows, they will be compelled to visit our town.

It is proven that when folks come to Newberry, they leave saying, “I will come back.” Use your imagination and consider how you might feel if you are a visitor coming to Newberry, and upon reaching the city limits, you start seeing Scarecrows, each one designed by a resident, business, service organization, school group, or church; no entity would be excluded.

What do you think? Are you up for something like this? We know it will work. The folks in Pendleton have a similar presentation and it has been extremely successful. Folks, when Newberry is promoted in any type of positive scenario, good things happen. When we attract people to Newberry, not only does our business community profit, but visitors often realize that this would be a great place to live, work, and play. Thus we often gain a new neighbor, and at the very least, our visitors spread the word about “The City of Friendly Folks.” And when we cause an increase in visitors, we all profit.

So, what do you think? If you like the Scarecrow idea, please call Liz, Michelle, or me at 276-4274. If we get enough positive responses, together we might create a magical October in Newberry. Please let us know your thoughts, and we urge you to get involved in promoting Newberry County.