Local engraver expands into golf carts

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

Jason Etherington Jr. is branching out his business in a unique new direction.

From engraving bulk items to fixing buttons on cars, Etherington’s work as the owner of J Enterprise takes him to a wide variety of businesses around the area from Des Moines to Rochester. It was during these travels that a visit to a car dealership sparked inspiration for a new venture: selling golf carts.

“I just happened to stop in one day,” said Etherington. “The next thing you know I’m talking with a dealer and a manufacturer.”

With two golf courses in Charles City, Etherington recognized the potential for a new business opportunity.

“For me, it was a no-brainer,” said Etherington. “We have nothing like that in town.”

Over the last several months, Etherington has been working to set up shop, finding a spot at 1004 Grand Ave. to house his new endeavor.

With the help of his daughter, Sydney Anderson, Etherington is nearly ready to open J Enterprise Golf Carts & Engraving.

Not just for golfers, he plans on having a selection of Evolution electric vehicles designed for a variety of purposes. Some carts may be made to be kept on the golf course while others will be available to cruise around town.

Etherington says he’s checked to make sure the carts will be street legal, with headlights, turn signals, and everything else needed to operate on slow speed streets.

“They’re like a car,” said Etherington. “You can drive them pretty much anywhere in town.”

Aiming for a May 1 opening, Etherington is starting small, planning to order about 10 carts to start with. He isn’t planning on getting fully into the golf equipment business, but may look into additional cart accessories down the line.

While diversifying his business, the relatively simple dealership will allow him to also continue his engraving operation, where he makes bulk orders of customized goods like hats, key chains, shirts, tumblers, and more.

“It’s not going to be a huge operation, but I will sell some golf carts for sure,” said Etherington.