TDDA annual meeting celebrates progress, vision for Tryon

During the “TDDA Year in Review” segment, attendees celebrated the 30th anniversary of the organization’s efforts in downtown Tryon. Significant renovations and building repurposing have revitalized the area, contributing to a rebound of local businesses post-COVID. New enterprises are now calling downtown home, with successful Fourth Friday events driving foot traffic.  Among the highlights discussed were the revival of the April Fools Festival, spearheaded by community member Sam Bell, and the upcoming 13th annual Tryon Beer Fest. The TDDA also collaborated with town officials on various projects and maintained long standing traditions with Halloween, Christmas, and New Year’s festivities. Wanda May and TDDA Director Lourdes Gutierrez then presented awards to several local business owners and volunteers, including Peter Eisenbrown (promotion for Summer Tracks), Allan Casavant (Economic Development), Sam Slade of Valhalla Cakes (Urban Design), Alexander Page and Vincent Martinez of Mirrorball Gallery (Urban Design) and Terri Mckinney (Economic Development).