IOI thankful for 20 years
I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of Industrial Opportunities Inc. supporters that assisted the IOI Board of Directors purchase of the V.F. Jeanswear – LEE Facility on Sept. 23, 2002.
IOI purchased the facility 20 years ago and moved from Marble into the former LEE Facility in Andrews on Feb. 28, 2003, with the following goals:
- Increasing IOI’s floor space – Then 32,500 square feet; now 108,344 square feet.
- Increase annual sales and service revenue – Then $3,396,411; now $8,485,000.
- Increase the number of new employees – Then 50, now 130.
- Increase commercial revenues to support our mission of providing vocational training and employment to adults with disabilities. Currently serving 115 adults with disabilities, with 40 working in the facility and 75 individuals receiving services in the community.
A total of 333 individuals with a disability have been successfully placed on a job in our community or at IOI, earning wages, paying taxes and contributing to our community’s economy since 2001.
To date, IOI has completed $3,502,274 in new construction and renovations, purchased $2,244,256 in equipment and paid $1,514,077 in vocational training wages, for total investment of $7,260,607.
I am proud to report that $124,067,545 in wages and benefits have been added to our community since Feb. 28, 2003.
The current IOI workforce of 170 appreciates all the support IOI has received over the past 20 years here in Andrews and the past 49 years serving Cherokee, Clay and Graham counties.
Tom O’Brien, Andrews
The writer is president and chief executive officer of Industrial Opportunities Inc.
Director has left big legacy
It is with much sadness and deep sorrow that we have lost our director of seven years for the Valley River Humane Society. Volunteering under the direction of Kristy Waller, I have been proud. It has been rewarding and a comfort.
She left this world on Feb. 1. The staff, board, volunteers and animals will miss her deeply. Being responsible for thousands of rescues, transports, adoptions and the saving of animals to her credit, her work leaves an amazing legacy. We will continue in her memory.
Hoping our communities will honor her memory. Let’s make a difference. Spay and neuter your pets. Adopt from the humane society or a rescue group. Volunteer or donate. Identify your pets so if they get lost they will be returned.
Be a part of taking care of animals in the community.
Debbie Graham, Hayesville
The writer is a volunteer with the Valley River Humane Society.
Sage elevates town’s dining
I finally had the chance to eat at Sage Elevated Dining restaurant in Andrews on Saturday night. I thought I would be the only person eating early at 5:00 ... to my surprise, it was already accompanied by many. Within the hour it was practically filled, and I understand why as Chef Steven’s unique style of cooking is behind and above the scenes.
The ambiance and lighting were relaxing along with the exceptionally trained staff, with their elegance and clean manicured hands.
The food took my taste buds on a new exciting trip. You know you’ll be back when all the senses register in your memory bank, craving the next grateful time to experience this amazing food again.
I can’t wait to take visiting family there.
Rita El-Khouri, Andrews