Former Luck's Inc. workers and family gathered at the Luck Comer Lail Center on November 13th, 2021 to reminisce. Memorabilia from the food processing company that closed in 2001 was brought including photos, awards, clothing and even an '88 Peterbilt truck tractor. The group traced it way through the facility noting the many processes that were performed as well as the new tenants including Carolina Bronze and Sapona Plastics. Despite the lingering threat of the COVID19 pandemic, they shared stories, handshakes and hugs as most attendees were fully vaccinated. Then, after a performance of bluegrass gospel from the band Steadfast, they were joined by donors to the Historic Lucks Cannery project for dinner and a program doubling the total attendance to over 220. "The story that unfolded here in the second half of the 20th century is one that should not be discarded. It's one that any entrepreneur or even a veteran businessman would be impressed by. It was an inspirational story. " said Jack Lail in his opening remarks. Jack shared how money was raised to rehabilitate the Luck's facility. The importance to the community and families was brought home by Joan Johnston, grand-daughter of one of the founders, Ivy Luck. Darius Luck then followed with a history of Luck's Inc. from its rise to eventual demise. Mary McKenzie, co-host of the event expressed appreciation to the Luck's workers that came as well as the many donors. Darrell Voncannon presented to the advisory board and Town of Seagrove for safe keeping, the very last can of beans that was produced at the facility along with a provenance note from Gary Anderson, who was the quality manager at the time. Carey Durham then shared a few comments about the importance of art, and pottery in particular. Carey had curated the display of original paintings on display in the gallery by Betty Lail and her daughter-in-law Megan Lail. Carey also noted that his friend, the late John Ehle, had collected over 200 pieces of Ben Owen Sr. pottery. A portion of the collection was on display as table centerpieces. The collection was donated by Ehle's wife, Golden Globe and Emmy award winning actress Rosemary Harris. This led to the introduction of the keynote speaker, actress Elizabeth Lail, current star of "Ordinary Joe" on NBC. David Fernandez, mayor of Seagrove, had a few closing remarks followed by door prizes and a live auction of a Luck's Inc. bean pot specially made by local potter Sid Luck for the event. Sponsors for the event included Jack Lail, First Horizon Bank, Post Consumer Brands Asheboro, Pemmco Mfg., Sapona Plastics and Advisors Financial Center. Eastern Steel Works provided plated cogs from various pieces of equipment in the Luck's plant as souvenirs. The event raised over $5500 which will be used to pay final expenses of the renovation of phase 1a. Make your donation or see more of the video stories at LucksCannery.weebly.com "The performing arts and storytelling have long been a friend of North Carolina and they have the power to soften our hearts, educate our minds, expand our horizons, and make us proud of the community we live in. ... Seagrove is an artist haven. It's the perfect space and place for their dreams to come to fruition." Elizabeth Lail
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