Cotton Incorporated's Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for New World Headquarters and Research Center
Following a tour of this state-of-the-art facility, industry leaders, local dignitaries, and members of the press gathered in front of the main building to take part in the event.
On hand for the opening ceremonies were Jim Graham with the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, W. Duke Kimbrell of Parkdale Mills Inc., the Honorable Glen D. Lang, Mayor of Cary and the Honorable Jack Smith, Jerry Rowland of National Textiles LLC, and James Hansen along with J. Berrye Worsham, both of Cotton Incorporated.
Jim Graham – NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, James Hansen, Cotton Inc., W. Duke Kimbrell of Parkdale Mills Inc., J. Berrye Worsham, Cotton Incorporated, and Jerry Rowland of National Textiles LLC
James Hansen of Cotton Incorporated introduced the speakers, who each gave a very dynamic overview of how Cotton Incorporated continues to influence and benefit the direction of the cotton industry.
James Hansen, Chairman of the Board, Cotton Incorporated officiated the ribbon cutting ceremonies
Industry leader Duke Kimbrell, of Parkdale Mills, stated "I consider Cotton Incorporated to be one of the key partners of the textile industry, and am proud to take advantage of the services Cotton Incorporated continues to provide." Kimbrell recognized the value-added potential of the new facility and commended efforts of the R&D team and services the exceptional staff continues to provide. "Through their efforts US cotton continues to gain consumption, which would not have happened without the efforts of Cotton Incorporated." Kimbrell added. He concluded by urging to industry leaders to consider more research in ginning and grading.
Duke Kimbrell
The Honorable Jack Smith, showed his enthusiasm that Cotton Incorporated had selected Cary for their World Headquarters. Smith reminded us, as consumers, "fabric of our lives" has indeed become an integral part of our every day lives, and in a few short decades, Cotton Incorporated has grown to influence every aspect of our economy. Smith added "Cotton Incorporated is a great company with has a simple and straightforward mission - To increase the demand and profitability of Cotton through marketing, research and promotion."
Jerry Rowland of National Textiles gave a very dynamic overview of his daily activities, and spoke about the various ways Cotton Incorporated has added value to their company, their products, and to the industry as a whole. Rowland also paid a tribute to Jim Graham for his efforts over the years in supporting the industry.
Jerry Rowland of National Textiles
J. Berry Worsham, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated, concluded the ceremony, thanking everyone for taking part and the tremendous support Cotton Incorporate has received from the industry. Worsham added that the new complex gives Cotton Incorporated and platform to work with the best fiber, produced by the world-class leaders. He reminded everyone that the building is a symbol of Cotton Incorporated's commitment to pushing cotton ahead "and to look at the facility as a means to promote cotton for many years to come."
All officials then cut the ribbon to officially open Cotton Incorporated's new World Headquarters and Research Center.
Following the ceremony a luncheon was served. Although it was somewhat cool, the rain held, and spirits were high.
By Anndrea Vorobej