The Spirit of Hospitality Award: Michael Wray

The Board of Directors of the Halifax County Convention & Visitors Bureau honored Representative Michael Wray at their Board of Directors meeting today. Representative Wray represents District 27, Halifax and Northampton Counties, in the North Carolina House of Representatives. The Spirit of Hospitality Award was created by the Halifax County Convention & Visitors Bureau to honor individuals who make a significant contribution to the tourism/hospitality industry in Halifax County.

As a democratic budget conferee, Rep. Wray successfully negotiated funding to assist District 27 local governments and non-profits in building capacity and positioning them for additional grant funding in recreation, water/sewer infrastructure, downtown revitalization, and more. “His support of the tourism industry in North Carolina and his district is unprecedented. Our board appreciates his belief in the Tourism Industry in Halifax and Northampton County and his support of the over 2,000 people employed in the industry that we represent”, stated Yvonne Thompson, Chairperson of the HCCVB Board of Directors. Highlights of funding for tourism-related projects in the recent NC State Budget are as follows:

• Roanoke River & Dan RiverPaddel Trail $1,025,000
• William R. Davie House & Visitor Center $5,200,000
• Town of Weldon (Passenger Rail Station) $750,000
• City of Roanoke Rapids - Revitalization $250,000
• Town of Enfield – Revitalization $250,000
• Town of Hobgood – Revitalization $250,000
• Town of Scotland Neck – Revitalization $250,000
• Town of Littleton- Revitalization $250,000
• Town of Weldon – Revitalization $250,000
• Town of Halifax (Staff Position) $71,573
• Andrew Jackson School Site - Property $50,000
• Andrew Jackson School Site – Development $150,000
• Freedom Trail – Halifax Underground Railroad $50,000
• Town of Conway – Revitalization $250,000
• Town of Jackson - Revitalization $125,000

According to Lori Medlin, President/CEO of the HCCVB, “Representative Wray has opened up new possibilities for the enhancement of and access to the Roanoke River. The designation of the Roanoke River as a Blue Way Trail creates opportunities for funding and new ways of accessing the Roanoke for residents and visitors alike.”

Individuals can be nominated for The Spirit of Hospitality Award in one or more of several categories, including server, hotel guest relations, and retail services and advocate, just to name a few. Nominees may represent a lodging property, campground, restaurant, bar, attraction, or other related or supportive organization.