The Mathews County Chamber of Commerce has a lot of potential, but needs some "regrouping," new president Haskins Ramos of Onemo said.

Ramos, who owns Haskins Bayside Collision Center at Port Haywood, said that for Mathews businesses to persevere and prosper through these tough economic times, their owners must go back to business basics such as putting a premium on offering good quality goods and services.

"The economy is so jumpy," Ramos said, that businesses must promote themselves in positive ways, with the all-volunteer chamber in a rebuilding mode. The chamber can play a central part in promoting Mathews as a good place for conducting business, he said.

Also, by affiliating with the chamber, local businesses can network and find possible users for their products and services among fellow chamber members.

A positive sign for the local economy, Ramos said, is that better internet service is coming to Mathews. This will help local businesses stay compet...