Wilkes EDC’s Annual Meeting was held on August 23, 2022. Live music (by The Nite Band), a flavorsome buffet, and a room full of motivated individuals with the same goal: helping our community.
Guest speakers and community members offered news and possibilities. North Wilkesboro Speedway Senior Director, Graig Hoffman, spoke on the track’s history and future. Broward Grove’s Director of Philanthropy, Johanna Anderson, gave wonderful news about the Childcare Study. LeeAnn Nixon, president of the Wilkes EDC, and Barry Hennings, president of Omega Construction, updated the community on the Wilkes Commercial Business Center. Zack Barricklow, Executive Director of NC Tech Paths, discussed the progress of the Masthead and shared opportunities NC Tech Paths has to offer. Heather Murphy, Executive Director of the Health Foundation, spoke on improving parks and trails for more access to fresh air and outdoor exercise. Dale Isom, president of Spectrum Hospitality Management, addressed the assembly about the new occupancy tax, and Nixon highlighted the progress on housing.
Laurie Brintle-Jarvis, WCC Small Business Director, announced this year’s Entrepreneurial Grant Winners. Winners received plaques with their names and businesses.
The Wilkes EDC Board of Directors and sponsors were honored. Sponsors included Frontier Naturals Gas, Omega Construction, ECS, and many others. Lee Herring of The Leonard G. Herring Family Foundation sponsored various projects our speakers mentioned, leading to a standing ovation.
Dale Isom, incoming Wilkes EDC Chairman, provided the night’s concluding remarks.