ROCKINGHAM – To show appreciation for local businesses and industries, Richmond County Chamber of Commerce, along with its partners, hosted “Boots, Brews, and Business” Thursday night at the Richmond County Airport.
The annual industry appreciation event is held in partnership with the Richmond County Chamber of Commerce, Richmond County Economic Development, Richmond County Government, and other local sponsors.
The appreciation celebration began with an after-work social at 5 p.m., followed by an oyster roast and seafood dinner. Emily Tucker, Richmond County Chamber of Commerce President, welcomed everyone to the event and introduced the first speaker, Martie Butler, Richmond County Economic Developer.
“This was our 20th year hosting this special event, and the first year we chose an oyster roast theme,” Tucker said. “This event is just a small way to say thank you to our industries for the investment they make in Richmond County. They are a vital part of what makes Richmond County great.
Butler expressed her thanks to all the local industries and businesses, then introduced Thad Ussery, who is a Richmond County Board Commissioner. Ussery also expressed his appreciation.
“Richmond County has been good to me,” Ussery said. “And we want to be good to our businesses.”
Senator Tom McInnis was next to speak, in which he mentioned Enviva, a new industry coming to Richmond County in late 2018. Enviva will manufacture wood pellets for renewable fuel for utility customers across the world.
Rob McCulloch, Public Affairs & Community Relations Manager of Enviva, stated the facility will be located off of Highway 177 in Hamlet. He also said this will be their fourth facility in North Carolina, with Wilmington’s plant being the port terminal in which Hamlet will ship into. The Hamlet location will employ around 80 people.
After the completion of the speakers, there was a drawing for a plane ride. Several names were drawn and each one had the opportunity to enjoy aerial views of Richmond County as the sunset glowed in the background with pilot and owner Jason Gainey.
Among some of those who took to the sky were Katie Rohleder, Wendi Herndon, Ray Herndon, and Tyree Massagee. Amy Ballard Terry was also one of the winners who had never flown in her life, and expressed how much she enjoyed it.
“The Chamber is proud to be a community partner in this event,” Tucker said.
