Meridian residents celebrated Thursday as Wendy’s cut the ribbon on its newly remodeled restaurant on North Hills Street. The event featured members of the Meridian High School Band and cheerleaders, the pledge of allegiance by VFW Post 12124, special giveaways and a visit from Wendy herself.

 

Tammy Branham, president of Carlisle, which owns several Wendy’s franchises in the area, said the company is proud to be a part of the Meridian community. The company can trace its roots in the Queen City back to the 1970’s, she said.

 

“You’ve been so good to us, and we continue to grow and develop in this area and give back and refresh,” she said. “A great example is what we’ve done here to refresh that, and just know that we’re committed to continue to grow and give back in Meridian.”

 

Branham said she also wants to recognize the workers who help make the company a success. Carlisle employs roughly 150 people in Meridian alone, she said, and it is their efforts that has allowed the company to be a part of the community for so long.

“A big shout out to our family here for all they do every day to keep us shining and keep us in a position where we’re going to continue to give back and grow here in Meridian,” she said.

 

Meridian Main Street Director Matt Schanrock thanked Wendy’s for its investment in the community, both in the restaurant itself and the remodeling. Putting money and effort into the property demonstrates a commitment to stay and grow in Meridian, he said.

 

“Thank you guys for reinvesting some money into your location remodeling,” he said. “That just means you’re going to stay here for a little bit longer, and we appreciate it.”

 

For their efforts, Branham said the Meridian High band and cheer students will receive free frostys for a year, and the company will also be making a donation to the school to show its appreciation. A donation will also be made to VFW Post 12124 to thank the veterans for leading the pledge, she said.