BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
INEZ — During a recent meeting, the Martin County Tourism board, led by Chairperson Nita Collier, discussed the ongoing mural project in Inez. Collier updated members Derrick Stepp, Brenda Davis and Linda Lou Webb about waiting for a design from artist Mary Ann Farley.
“We only have one option for a mural now and we’re still waiting to get a design back,” Collier said.
The proposed mural concept focuses on a clothesline displaying quilts, each depicting elements like coal, schools, agriculture and churches, reflecting Martin County’s heritage.
“We’re open to suggestions on that if anybody has any,” added Collier.
In other developments, the Historic Martin County Courthouse is undergoing renovations, with old wiring removed and new installations underway.
The courthouse recently received a player piano donation that will be used for future community events like Christmas in the Mountains and weddings.
“It will be so nice when we’re able to open and use it,” Collier said.
Tourism board members also reviewed proposals for juror chairs designed by Martin County Area Technology Center instructor Brandon Conley. These chairs, featuring a lock-and-wheel system, will facilitate versatile space usage for events like mock trials. They can then be moved to storage when the courtroom is being used for weddings and other events.
The board discussed QR code signage for county site information but took no action.
Meanwhile, a new wayfinding sign for the Kermit Bridge area, boasting an 8-10 year life span due to its marine-type coating, has been received and will be installed in collaboration with District 5 Magistrate Ronald Workman.
Martin County Code Enforcement Officer Paul McCoy installed the new Grassy Park sign.
Additionally, to boost local marketing, Collier has partnered with JAG students and instructor Lance Tackett from the local high school. They plan to create a YouTube video featuring local businesses, potentially adaptable for radio advertising. This project will include the Creekside song “Come On Home to Martin County.”
“He talked like the end of January they should have it all completed,” said Collier.
Finally, Webb updated on the Christmas in the Mountains event, noting successful sponsorship and the addition of new light displays. A carriage ride sponsored by the Tourism board sold out immediately after the Mountain Citizen posted it on Facebook last week.
The festival is underway this week in downtown Inez. For more details about Christmas in the Mountains, readers can find the complete schedule in the current edition of the Mountain Citizen.