Greetings Patrick,
Director of Economic Development and Tourism
I hope all is well. I am amazed at how quickly time can pass through the hourglass. The last time I wrote my article was on February 10th. Where does the time go? Well, I am back with pen and paper now and ready to talk about our lovely community and some of the wonderful things Tourism is working on or involved in.
Our Spring Edition Magazine is out and is being distributed throughout the county. We have copies at our Visitors Center, at 126 North Main Street here in Stuart. Once again, Rebecca Adcock, director of the Chamber of Commerce; David Stanley with Silver Lining Design; Kim Rakes, professional photographer; Grace Cooper, marketing manager; Sue Kolljeski, Tourism’s administrative assistant; Noah Mabe, coordinator of Small Business and Economic Development; and all of the amazing writers did an outstanding job. Come by and pick up a copy or two. Just a heads up: we have decreased our ordering number, so ensure you get yours before they are gone.
Another essential piece of information I want to bring to your attention is a Community Input Session on May 14 at the Reynolds Homestead from 5 to 7 p.m. The Foothills of Blue Ridge Outdoor Recreational Plan is being discussed, and we need your involvement. This meeting will allow the members of the community from Patrick and Henry counties and the City of Martinsville an opportunity to see some of the preliminary concepts of the plan, meet the design team from Destination by Design, the Development Team from Friends of Southwest Virginia, and local Project Management Team members. Stop by anytime between 5 and 7 p.m. We seek your thoughts, commitments, and suggestions as we move forward.
The Department of Tourism and the Economic Development Authority are committed to working with our local government, businesses, civic organizations, and entrepreneurs to improve the quality of life for our citizens, attract more tourists, and thus increase the economic outlook in our region. Please come out and have a voice.
Well, that will do it for now. Again, check out our website for the latest information on all the events happening in Patrick County!! There is only one, so find yourself here! (Really!) Only one Patrick County in the entire world. Google it, search it, and see for yourself. Awesome!!!!
Love you, Patrick County!
James Houchins, director of Economic Development and Tourism
