The N.C. Economic Developers Association (NCEDA) selected Terry Bralley, president of Davie County Economic Development Commission, as the 2013 Economic Developer of the Year.
 “Terry’s hard work has positively impacted jobs and investment throughout Davie County,” stated Linda Weiner, NCEDA immediate past president. “This award is our organization’s way of recognizing his dedication to his community, the economic development profession and our state.”
 A county that started with a 10 percent unemployment rate in 2012, Davie County announced more than $185 million in new investment and 850 potential new jobs within one year. According to his peer nomination and numerous letters of recommendation, this would not have been possible without Bralley’s professionalism, creativity and determination.
 Bralley was integral in recruitment and expansion projects in 2012, including CPP Global’s new plastic injection molding facility, Ingersoll Rand’s expansion, Ashley Furniture’s new manufacturing and distribution operation, Beaufurn’s new furniture manufacturing facility, expansion of Avgol Nonwovens’ operation, redevelopment of the Cooleemee Mill and development of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center’s West Campus.
 The largest of these projects was Ashley Furniture choosing Advance for its new furniture manufacturing facility. Ron Wanek, chair of the board and founder of Ashley Furniture, said Bralley was the driving force behind the project and is one of the best business development professionals he has worked with.
 Bralley was appointed by the governor to the NC Global Trans Park Board, and the Uwharrie Regional Resource Commission. He was honored this year with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by the governor. In addition, Bralley served as 2012 chair of the PTEDC board for the Piedmont Region.
 “This is an honor, but would not have be possible without the support of local elected officials, their staff, our state elected officials and may other state agencies, foundations, private entities, and citizens working together to make these things happen in our community,” said Bralley. “We are focused and engaged in creating a better future for our community …