Approximately 150 people attended HEDCO’s (Henderson Economic Development Cooperation) annual Business Appreciation Luncheon Tuesday September 26. The group consisted of local business and industry leaders, elected officials, and other community leaders as they gathered for lunch, updates, a very special guest speaker and the presentation of their 2023 Community and Economic Development Award.
“The annual HEDCO business appreciation luncheon is our opportunity to bring together larger local employers and share information about our accomplishments during the past year, as well as to provide information about our upcoming plans. It was great to have a full house of close friends of economic development, and local businesses.” said John Clary, Executive Director.
This year’s award winner was presented to Rusk County Electric Cooperative, Inc. Rusk County Electric Cooperative, Inc. is a locally owned and operated electric provider to residents in Rusk, Panola, Gregg, Nacogdoches, and Shelby counties since 1937 and have been a part of the Henderson Community for the past 86 years.
Guest speaker, Matt Rush from Levelland, Texas inspired and the group with his motivational message. Rush grew up on a farm in rural New Mexico and brought that “farm boy” logic and humor to his speech. He has won state and national awards for his public speaking, co-authored several books on leadership, and has been quoted in Bloomberg Business Weekly, NPR, PGS and ABC News.
“Being able to bring Matt Rush in to speak about “being a better you” was a highlight and something I’ve been wanting to do since I took the position in Henderson. I’m so glad that worked out,” said John Clary Executive Director.
Outgoing Board Member and President of HEDCO Dylan Culp was recognized and given a certificate for his faithful service to the Board.
Dan Moore, Director of Marketing and Business Development