Joint IDA of Wythe County Presents Industry Tenure Awards

WYTHEVILLE—The Joint Industrial Development Authority recently presented tenure awards (recognizing five-year increments) for 2014 to several Wythe County industries. These awards were presented at a special luncheon held at the Wytheville Meeting Center on February 27, 2014. Dr. Alan Hawthorne, Executive Director of the Joint IDA was the keynote speaker. Dr. Hawthorne spoke about economic development efforts in the county during his 15-year tenure as Executive Director. He also shared that in his judgment, as the economy improves, Wythe County is well positioned to capitalize on economic development opportunities. Joining the Joint IDA board of directors were members of the Wythe County Board of Supervisors, Wytheville Town Council, Rural Retreat Town Council, and member of the Wythe Manufacturing Council. The Joint IDA also acknowledged the support of Wytheville Office Supply. Wytheville Office Supply has been the sole sponsor of the luncheon since its inception in 2005.

The following companies received acknowledgment for their contributions to the community over extended periods: 20-year award—Dalton Enterprises, Inc., ElectroFinishing, Inc., J.J. Haines and Company, Inc., and R.H. Sheppard Co., Inc.; 25-year award—Appalachian Hardwood & Dimension, Inc.; 30-year award—Hutchinson Sealing Systems, Inc., S&W Fertilizer, Seed, & Chemical Co., Inc.; 40-year award—Quadrant EPP USA, Inc., Wythe Power Equipment, Inc.; and 60-year award—Southern States Wythe County Service.