MOSES LAKE - It wasn't all silly string and magic tricks at the Grant County Economic Development Council (EDC) banquet Friday at Big Bend Community College.

EDC members outlined the economic state and the hopeful growth of Grant County in the near future.

Also, former EDC President Marvin Price was recognized for his year of service by incoming president Gary Ash.

"We appreciate the service you've brought to the community and to the EDC and now you get to assume the role of past president, a very coveted role by the way," Ash joked.

Incoming EDC directors Harlan Beagley, of the Columbia Basin Herald, and Reed Raymond, of Hayden Homes, were also recognized.

Tom Heath, one of the directors of the EDC Building Prosperity campaign outlined the organization's five-year plan for revitalizing Grant County.

However, before Heath was able to begin he was covered with silly string by freelance writer and author Sheldon Townsend for having a "boring" introduction.

"I was going to read the entire definition of economic development from Wikipedia, but I decided not to," he said.

Jokes notwithstanding, the EDC plans to increase existing building development, recruit and attract new businesses, develop the retail and service industry, develop Grant County's infrastructure and improve communication and investor relations.

The goal over the next five years is to create 300-350 new jobs, grow the retail and service sector by five to 15 businesses and begin 10-12 economic development projects.

Heath explained the EDC is planning for five years because projects can take between two and five years to become operational.