Graham
Revitalization Economic Action Team Minutes
March
21, 2019
Welcome/Introductions
Recognition of Host and Sponsor
Bear Chekelelee welcomed the group to Snowbird Youth Center and provided information on the history. Tribal Council Chair Adam Wachacha and Councilman Bucky Brown expressed greetings from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and provided information on present and future activities of EBCI.
General Items
Approval of minutes November 15, 2018
The minutes from the November 15, 2018 GREAT meeting were approved by the Board of Directors.
The agenda as presented was approved by consensus of the group.
GREAT Financial Report
Pam Shaffer, GREAT Treasurer, presented the financial report to the group.
Guest Speaker
Guest speaker, Patricia Reid Thompson, Community-Based Health System Specialist with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, provided information on the work being done by the CDC in the Appalachian region to combat diabetes. She praised the GREAT organization for the work being done to promote exercise with the walking trails at RHS and Stecoah Valley Center.
Reports/Discussion Items
Committee Reports
Director Rick Davis reviewed the committee report attachment. He highlighted a couple of items including the Buy Local Campaign and RHS Sweetwater Creek Restoration Project. Report is attached. Director Davis recognized Jim Kriner, Dick Evans and District Ranger Andy Gaston to unveil the new Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest sign to be installed at the loop trail.
County/Town Updates
Becky Garland Graham County Manager; Zelerie Rogers, Town Administrator Town of Fontana Dam; and Jim Hager, Mayor Town of SanteetlahUpdates were provided by
Regional/Legislative Delegation Updates
Representatives of regional partners providing updates included Andy Gaston US Forest Service Cheoah District; Shaina Clark MountainWise; Jennifer Trippe Manna FoodBank; Becca Scott Region A Commission; Matt Saenger Balsamwest; Monica Holley - Career Advisor, NCWorks Career Center Tri-County; Gabriell Pringle Appalachian Counseling; Jordan Smith Mainspring Conservation; Michelle Shiplet Church Mouse Ministries; Eddie Hollifield Boy Scouts of America and Mary Griffin Graham County Library.
Directors Report
Director Rick Davis announced the next GREAT Meeting to be held on May 16, 2019 at Stecoah Valley Center.
Adjourn