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.