Hamlet Business Development Association elects new board leadership during June meeting

HAMLET — The Hamlet Business Development Association proudly announces the election of its new Board of Directors following its organizational meeting held on Tuesday, June 23, at the Big Tomato Marketing office located on Main Street in downtown Hamlet. The HBDA has been active in the Hamlet community since June of 2005.

The newly elected board brings together a diverse group of local business owners and community leaders who are committed to supporting economic growth, fostering collaboration among businesses, and strengthening the future of the Hamlet community.

The 2026-2027 HBDA Board of Directors includes:

• Greg Padilla, co-president, founder of Military Veterans Foundation
• Michelle Padilla, co-president, owner of Big Tomato Marketing
• Brenda Coble, vice chair, owner of Riverside Bakery & Coffee Shop
• Amy Guinn, secretary, owner of First Metanoia
• McKayla Locklear, treasurer, owner of It's Whatever
• Dayona Johnson, events coordinator, owner of DS Art Studio, LLC
• Hope Dibble, fundraising chair, owner of Two Dogs on the Run

The newly elected board discussed upcoming initiatives designed to support local businesses, increase community engagement, and promote economic development throughout Hamlet and the surrounding region.

"HBDA exists to bring local businesses, entrepreneurs, and business community members together to create opportunities that strengthen our downtown and our city," said Michelle Padilla, co-president of HBDA. "We are excited about the future and look forward to building momentum through collaboration amd events that support local strategic growth."

The Hamlet Business Development Association welcomes business owners, and nonprofit organizations who are interested in contributing to the continued success of Hamlet.

The next HBDA meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 18, at 6:30 p.m. at the Big Tomato Marketing office in downtown Hamlet. Community members interested in learning more about the organization are encouraged to attend.

About the Hamlet Business Development Association

The Hamlet Business Development Association is a community-driven organization dedicated to supporting local businesses, promoting economic growth, and fostering partnerships that enhance the vitality of Hamlet, North Carolina. Through collaboration, advocacy, networking, and community events, HBDA works to create opportunities that help local businesses thrive while strengthening the community as a whole.

Apply for membership:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe3dxklMyVICszoh_u7MOfNZ4AcmowBtpooi36D4kJqRmjoCA/viewform