SPRING FORWARD

Hello from the desk of the Alliance.

Every week it has been pointed out how I say its been busy but, this week I can assure you it has been. Between the 10 hours of driving across the State of Kentucky we have shared the message and opportunity this community represents.

Monday, the Alliance presented a plan for Economic Development to Boyd County Fiscal Court. We had been working with Judge Executive Chaney on an action plan to kick start the marketing of this region. Our plan was approved and now $100,000.00 in new funding is allocated to making sure we have a seat at the table for growth and development. This along with our relationship with City of Ashland and Greenup County will ensure we have the best possible chance to support our existing companies and recruit new ones as well. I believe this was a powerful first step forward. Thank you to everyone that is stepping up and saying, “this is the way.”

We also celebrated one of the key things that makes this community so special. The Winter Wonderland of Lights Volunteer Appreciation and Awards Dinner was held. Winter Wonderland of Lights is nearly a year-round activity. It’s an honor to work with the committee and celebrate the season and the people that make this festival happen. Marion Russell and his team have built this into the biggest and best celebration of Christmas and all that it stands for in Kentucky and the Tri-State. Thank you from the Alliance for a partnership and making our community special.

Finally, we have something new to celebrate as well. Raceland-Worthington Independent School District is holding a Ribbon Cutting Celebration for their new Middle School along with the Alliance on Saturday, March 7, 2020. Superintendent Coldiron and the Board of Education should be proud they have accomplished this goal of providing the best possible educational experience for the children of their community. Please come out and celebrate with us.

As we “Spring Forward” into spring, let’s leave the gray days of Winter behind us. It is time to run! I must admit for a few weeks I too felt the weight of the world with the news of the day. That time is over. We do have a pathway forward. This is your Alliance and we will move on.

Thank you…Enjoy the day…

— Tim Gibbs
Ashland Allinace