Congressman Mike McIntyre stopped by one Brunswick County town to shed some light on the local economy. The Southport and Oak Island Chamber of Commerce held their 34th annual chamber meeting Monday. The meeting took place at the Southport Community Building. McIntyre's speech tried to give a shot in the arm to the local economy. “Part of the challenge in dealing with a tough economy is getting that sense of optimism, getting people excited about being able to go and generate business and get out and make sure their business can succeed, making sure they have access to capital” McIntyre said. “We want to make sure that's being done and that small business can get a step ahead.” McIntyre also mentioned a reason to be optimistic was the start of tourism season, an industry that has helped sustain the local economy in these tough times.