From the February 2008 Edition of the Marine Business Journal:
North Carolina has a history and a comfort level with being center stage. From 1720 to 1870 it was the world’s largest producer of naval stores-tar, pitch, rosin and turpentine. In the modern era it’s among the nation’s largest producers of boats. “As governor and as a native North Carolinian, I am pleased to help support the growth of the state’s boating industry, an industry with a heritage that dates back 200 years,” says Governor Mike Easley. “This industry continues to grow in our state because companies know they will find a business-friendly climate and high-quality workers who can help them succeed.”
