While running for mayor, John Tecklenburg rode a wave of support from West Ashley’s large voting block, by campaigning with the promise of a renaissance for the region. So for it’s first meeting of 2016, the West Ashley-James Island Business Association (WAJIBA) welcomed then newly-elected Mayor John Tecklenburg to speak. It was the largest meeting in the business group’s six-year history. And next week, to kick off it’s seventh year, WAJIBA is again welcoming the mayor as it’s guest speaking. With a year under his belt since the last time he addressed the local business community, a lot has changed since Tecklenburg first became Charleston’s first new mayor in four decades.
A lot has changed for West Ashley in that year as well. Tecklenburg, who lives in West Ashley, will talk about the progress West Ashley has made and what is in store for our side of town when he speaks to WAJIBA at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 25 at Bessinger’s BBQ, located at 1602 Savannah Hwy. The lunch meeting is open to the public. Cost is Free for WAJIBA members and $20 for non-members and includes a buffet lunch from Bessinger’s BBQ.
Incoming WAJIBA president Bradley Adams says having the mayor speak at the first meeting of 2017 is a great way to set the tone for WAJIBA, which grew its membership by almost 50 percent last year. “It’s a nice way to kick things off. Whether you’re a part of the business community or just a concerned citizen, this should be a great meeting,” says Adams, who is co-owner of A&A Insurance on Sam Rittenberg Boulevard and was born and raised in West Ashley. “This is just an exciting time for West Ashley and folks are anxious to hear what the mayor has to say about the future of our area.”
