2025 SESSION

ENROLLED

HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 691

Commending Meredith Dean.

Agreed to by the House of Delegates, February 17, 2025

WHEREAS, Meredith Dean, an entrepreneur in Hopewell, has made numerous contributions to the local dining scene as the founder of several restaurants; and

WHEREAS, Meredith Dean, a Hopewell native and a Hopewell High School graduate, pursued higher education at Virginia Commonwealth University, from which she earned bachelor's and master's degrees, then received a doctorate in policy analysis and educational research from North Carolina State University; and

WHEREAS, after a 10-year career in academia, Meredith Dean embraced her passion for the culinary arts, transforming an old diner in Hopewell into Roja Taco Joint, a vibrant eatery offering authentic street tacos and handcrafted cocktails; and

WHEREAS, Meredith Dean officially opened Roja Taco Joint on December 1, 2019; her attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the restaurant, from its striking red, white, and black exterior to its house-made tortillas, salsas, desserts, and drink mixes, all made from scratch; and

WHEREAS, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Meredith Dean demonstrated resilience and dedication to single-handedly operate Roja Taco Joint, ensuring service to the community through innovative takeout offerings; and

WHEREAS, Meredith Dean is also the owner of Waves Sandwich Company, an ingredient-conscious food business in Hopewell focusing on making meals that are both healthy and delicious; and

WHEREAS, Meredith Dean's restaurants have maintained a strong commitment to quality and accessibility and are beloved gathering places for locals and visitors, contributing to the culinary diversity and vibrancy of Hopewell; and

WHEREAS, Meredith Dean's entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication to her community have made her restaurants valued establishments in Hopewell and have earned her the admiration and gratitude of local residents; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, That Meredith Dean hereby be commended for her contributions to Hopewell as an entrepreneur; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to Meredith Dean as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for her contributions to the Hopewell community.