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PuTnam Progress 2013: Friday, March 22, 2013
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Putnam Progress 2013:
CommerCe WHAT’S FOR
DINNER?
Sholten Singer/The Herald-Dispatch
Vehicles travel down the busy State Route 34 off of Interstate 64’s Exit 39 in Teays Valley.
City manager makes case for more casual dining options for residents F
oming off Interstate 64 at Teays Valley is a hungry traveler’s dream — billboard after billboard announcing every kind of fast food restaurant, from hamburgers and sub sandwiches to tacos to fried chicken — and don’t forget pizza. There are at least six places in a one-mile radius dedicated to America’s favorite tomato and cheese pie. However, if those travelers want to sit down and eat dinner at a good, casual dinner restaurant where he or she gets served by a wait staff, they will find they have fewer choices. Hurricane City Manager Ben Newhouse said trying to convince casual dining restaurant chains to move into the city of Hurricane or Teays Valley was difficult because they believe if they have restaurants in Huntington and Charleston, they do not need to open another one in this area, which is about half way between the two cities. However, he notes that those chains have long lines and long waiting times for tables. “They’ve got huge waiting lines. We’ve written and spoken to 75 to 100 restaurants, trying to get them to take an interest,” Newhouse said about his efforts to get some of the bigger restaurants to come to Hurricane. Newhouse explained that when the big chains are looking for an area in which to put a restaurant, they want to know how many people live within a 15mile radius, the average income of the area and how much disposable income the residents have. In addition, they want to know about taxes, fees, zon-
ing rules and regulations, controlling land, land prices and financing. He said Hurricane also has a problem because of the town’s shortage of buildings. He said he had tried to get the Fat Patty’s restaurant to open in Hurricane, but it went to Teays Valley because of the lack of buildings to house a restaurant. Fat Patty’s moved into the old Shoney’s building just off the Teays Valley exit. “If we can’t have it in Hurricane, I am glad it’s in Putnam County,” he said. Newhouse believes with a population of 55,673, the county can support more restaurants. He added that 60,000 cars and trucks travel on the Interstate through Putnam County every day, which should add to the support of more restaurants. Despite the fact there are not many casual dining restaurants in Teays Valley, one thing stands out about the ones that are flourishing: They are either locally owned or, if they are a franchise, the operators are local. Along with Applebee’s, Bob Evans, Rio Grande, El Rancho Grande, Taste of
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Asia and Barnyard Barbeque, Teays Valley claims some great eating places. With a sign that towers over all of the other businesses on Route 34, Fat Patty’s, located in the old Shoney’s building near Hampton Inn, came in with a bang over the Labor Day weekend 2012, and has not slowed down in its popularity. Owned by Huntington resident Clint Artrip, the restaurant features a variety of burgers with fun names such as the “Lava Patty,” with red-hot grilled jalapenos, the “Not So Cow” vegetarian patty, the “Big Fat Patty,” which at 12 ounces is labeled a monster burger, and even the “Vampire Killer,” which speaks for itself. The restaurant also serves BBQ , sandwiches, salads and dinners. Fat Patty’s has been especially popular with customers, filling the parking lot and the road leading onto it. The Fireside Grille, which opened Feb. 21, 2011, is located at 4170 Route 34 beside the Hampton Inn. It is owned
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keY PlaYer: Jeff Barnes JOB: President/ CEO of Barnes Agency. Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations in Teays Valley HOW DID I GET INTO MY CAREER: “I started in hospital administration and then moved into hospital marketing.” FIRST JOB: “Loading and unloading 18wheeler trailers for UPS. Tough job!” FAMILY: “My lovely wife, Susan. My wonderful son, Trevor. My beautiful stepdaughter, Lauren. I am blessed to have them all in my life. Oh, and our shelter cat, Grace. She is part of our family, too!” SPECIAL SKILLS: “Communication. I never meet a stranger.” FAVORITE BOOK: The Bible FAVORITE MOVIE: “Gladiator” FAVORITE TV SHOW: “ ‘Mad Men.’ If only my wife would let me keep scotch in my office like Don Draper.”
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2B The Putnam Herald — Friday, March 22, 2013
W.Va.’s global role in driving economic growth The U.S. Department of Commerce has released new data showing the impact of exporting on our national economy, with West Virginia as one of only 11 states to achieve double-digit export growth last year from 2011. In reality, West Virginia did much more than double its exports — the state experienced a 26 percent increase in overall export growth, including a 61 percent increase in exports to South Korea, making it one of the best-performing states in 2012. Not only is this a remarkable moment in time for the state of West Virginia, but for the job-creating businesses and the workers who made it possible. The latest export data proves that significant and serious business opportunities exist beyond our borders; in fact, 95 percent of the world’s consumers live outside of the U.S. For many West Virginia companies, international marketing has become a critical element to business sustainability and growth. In 2012 alone, more than $11 billion in merchandise was exported from the state, equating to the preservation and creation of thousands of jobs in minerals and ores, chemical production and transportation equipment. West Virginia is part of a positive trend of states fueling our nation’s economic growth, and reinforcing America’s position as a magnet for quality jobs: According to the latest data, U.S. jobs supported by exports increased to 9.8 million in 2012. Exporting success stories are happening across the state. Take Charleston’s Industrial Bolting Technologies Inc., which began exploring the notion of exporting their products to China in 2009. Working closely with the U.S. Commercial Service in West Virginia, the company has completed a number of sales in Korea and China in recent years. Company president Mike McCown recently commented that when it comes to exporting, one success begets additional success: “When you develop a reputation in foreign markets of being a good company, delivering on what you promise, word gets around to other customers.” Industrial Bolting is now further expanding its horizons, developing business relationships in South Africa, Australia and Europe. The company recently reported that they expect a 30 percent increase in their exportingrelated business during the next few years. Stories like these tell us
Questions? Call the newsroom at 304-526-2776 www.putnamherald.com
Putnam County Chamber of Commerce
VISIONING PROCESS
Francisco J.
SANCHEZ
that exports are making a difference in West Virginia’s economic recovery. The once-familiar refrain that America “imports everything and exports nothing” has now given way to these success stories and many more. And the trend is one that will continue due to the entrepreneurial spirit of America’s businesses and workers. But it’s clear that there are far more opportunities than what West Virginia businesses have experienced thus far. It all starts with businesses and government working together to take advantage of a unique window of opportunity. Since 2010, the International Trade Administration has helped more than 16,000 U.S companies achieve a verified export sale for a total of $164 billion in exports supported. This level of support is only expected to grow during the coming years, as President Barack Obama referenced in his most recent State of the Union, and there are more resources available to local businesses than ever to explore the potential of exports. The U.S. Commercial Service in West Virginia is providing local businesses like Industrial Bolting with trade counseling, market intelligence, business matchmaking, and commercial diplomacy to connect with lucrative business opportunities. Rapidly emerging markets across the globe are creating unprecedented demand for the kind of state-of-the-art products being developed here in West Virginia. Nearly 800 businesses across the state are already seeing that first hand. As we applaud this latest achievement of West Virginia’s economic recovery, we must also commit to ensuring that its momentum continues. Continuing the creation of opportunities and support for U.S. companies to export their goods and services makes good economic sense — and American workers deserve nothing less. Francisco J. Sanchez is the Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade. He leads the International Trade Administration, a federal agency with commercial offices across the United States and the globe that promotes U.S. businesses and global competitiveness.
KEY PLAYER: GAiL PAttON
JOB: Executive director, Unlimited Future; owner, Top Hat Ballroom; board president, The Wild Ramp. FAMILY: Husband, Paul Sr., manager at Richwood; daughters, Dr. Lydia Patton, professor of philosophy at Viginia Tech; Phoebe Randolph, AIA, architect at Ed Tucker and mother of Ben (3) and Noah (1); sonin-law, Justin Randolph, contractor. HOW DID YOU GET INTO YOUR CAREER: “I came from an entrepreneurial family. I have always been passionate about small business and helping small business to grow. My brother, Rich Stoll, started Richwood with a telephone and a desk in my parents’ basement in 1975. As soon as I heard about Unlimited Future, I was interested!” FIRST JOB: Stocking groceries in a country store in Negley, Ohio WHAT DRIVES YOUR PASSION FOR YOUR CAREER: “The possibility of success for small businesses. It’s so much fun to meet the interesting people and hear their stories. From farmers at The Wild Ramp to the clients of the incubator at Unlimited Future and other small business owners in the Tri-State, I have the best job in the world.” SPECIAL SKILLS NEEDED IN YOUR JOB: Flexibility, ability to take risks, financial expertise, marketing expertise, general business knowledge. FAVORITE BOOK: “The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien FAVORITE MOVIE: “Princess Bride” FAVORITE TV SHOW: “Downton Abbey” on PBS
Photos courtesy of the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce
Chamber of Commerce members and county business leaders discuss ways to improve the quality of life and the business climate in Putnam County during the Chamber’s 2013 Vision Summit on Feb. 15 at Sleepy Hollow Golf Club in Hurricane. In 2011, the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce identified a Visioning Process as an important objective in its Ashley annual planning session. In 2012, it became a reality after the Chamber Board of Directors authorized the Visioning Process in its budget and created a permanent Executive Committee position to ensure the future success of this project. The initial objectives were to enable the Chamber to become more involved with and relevant to its membership and to provide a continuous process to make Putnam County a better place to live, work and play. In conjunction with Marshall University, Putnam County residents were surveyed on a variety of topics to determine issues important to the business community and the public in general. The results of the survey were expected, indicating the need for community and educational projects, updated infrastructure, economic development, workforce and retail development and health care issues. Along with the survey, the Chamber also conducted extensive talks with community leaders and our elected officials to develop a framework from which to begin at the first Vision Summit in January 2012. About 35 business and community leaders came together in 2012 and with the help of Chuck Stump, acting as moderator, devel-
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by Marc W. Brown and Judi and Rob Sydenstricker. The restaurant features American cuisine, burgers and salads, along with such offerings as steak, walleye, salmon filet, St. Louis Ribs, wood-fired grilled chicken and shrimp. It has flat-screened TVs for watching sports and features jazz pianist Bob Thompson and his band periodically during the year. Graziano’s Pizza, located at 200 Great Teays Blvd., has been a mainstay in Teays Valley for a dozen years. Owned by Phillip Graziano, the restaurant opened March 4, 2001. Manager Evan Mullins said all of their food is homemade with pepperoni rolls being one of the most popular. Dinners consist of manicotti, spaghetti, eggplant parmesan, chicken parmesan and 14-layer lasagna. “It’s really thick, and the serving is very generous. It will fit two people easily,” Mullins said. Pizza is also one of their popular offerings. Beside Graziano’s is the China Chef, located at 200-5 Great Teays Blvd., which has been in operation for a few years. The restaurant is owned by two brothers, Charlie and Kevin Lin. The restaurant features both lunch and dinner with about 12 different offerings that include
oped our first projects for the Visioning Process. This project is an ongoing effort by the Chamber to continually improve our county by identifying issues central to improving the business climate and overall quality of life for Putnam County. By bringing a cross-section of business and community leaders together at one time, we can maximize our ideas on future growth and establish a process to accomplish the same. “The Chamber Board is thrilled to continue the Visioning process in 2013. We have created a forum that will allow leaders in every sector and in every part of the county an opportunity to come together and create a single plan to move Putnam County
sweet and sour chicken, moo goo gai pan, pepper steak and General Tso’s chicken. Appetizers include fried chicken wings, crab meat rangoon, teriyaki chicken, and steamed or fried dumplings, among others. They are particularly known for their “all you can eat” buffet. If you like the idea of a family restaurant, The Italian Grille & Deli is an excellent example. Owned by Mike, Vicky and Elijah Rader and Byron Guerrant, the restaurant also has manager Jesse Rader and a grandmother and aunt who work there. A trained chef, Elijah Rader attended the Johnson & Wells Culinary Institute. “All other workers are friends we have known. It is very closeknit,” Jesse Rader said. The restaurant will hold about 100 patrons. The restaurant serves Italian food, steaks, seafood, pizza and subs. Most food is homemade such as lasagne, meatballs and alfredo sauce. Dessert is all homemade with the exception of the canoli. The shells are store bought, and the family makes the custard filling. Cakes are a specialty at this restaurant. They include Coconut Cream Cake, Lemon Crumble and Chocolate Brownie Cake. In addition, they include Tiramsu Cake (coffee-flavored lady fingers) and traditional Italian desserts such as Italian Cream Cake. Along with standard pizza, they make Barbequed Chicken
forward,” said Mandy Curry, Visioning Chair. “The Chamber is passionate about leading this initiative and believes it’s important for businesses and residents to work and live in a thriving community that has a solid plan for future growth.” One year after the initial summit, on Friday, Feb. 15, 2013, the group of community leaders reassembled at Sleepy Hollow Golf Club to give updates on the successes of 2012 and to re-evaluate some issues identified in 2012. It is always important to refocus our efforts on the initiatives that can be accomplished and if needed, identify new areas that need the attention of the Visioning Process. Projects on the
radar for 2013 include finding solutions to the drug problem in the county, working with planning and zoning, exploring the possibility of a new community center to hold larger events in the market and an increased focus on restaurants and retail growth in Putnam County. To follow the progress made by the Visioning Project check out the Chamber’s monthly Pride and Progress Newsletter at www.putnamchamber.org or contact the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce.
Pizza, Eggplant Pizza and one called The Italy. If it is ice cream or yogurt you like as a special treat, Teays Valley has a lot to offer. TCBY has been a mainstay in the area for several years. However, two new ones have appeared on the scene in the past year and are doing a thriving business. Clairbells, located at 3999 Teays Valley Road across from Putnam County Bank, opened in September 2012 and is owned by Sandi Elswick. The yogurt shop offers 14 flavors with seven machines that dispense the treat. If it is a healthy alternative you want, Clairbells uses live active cultures to make their yogurt. In addition to yogurt, one can get Nathan’s Hotdogs, barbecues and chicken salad sandwiches. The chicken salad and coleslaw for the other sandwiches are homemade every day. You can also get a grilled cheese on potato bread grilled with real butter. To wash that down, try a Yo-Shake, Claribells’ version of a milkshake. With warmer weather just around the corner, Clairbells offers outside seating with music. In May, Elswick is introducing fresh waffle cones filled with fruit such as strawberries and blueberries. They also offer yogurt and Yo-Pies to go. In addition to Clairbells, the Valley gained another yogurt shop called The Orange Leaf. If you are out shopping with the little ones, The Orange Leaf,
located at 100-1 Great Teays Blvd., is a fun place to visit. The shop is painted in an orange, white and green theme with small round tables and ultra-modern chairs. Two long orange couches provide a place to relax. The yogurt is self-serve with 16 flavors. All but two flavors are gluten free. Coming soon is a Fro-Jo, which is hot chocolate with a choice of yogurt and toppings. “It’s really good — oh my gosh,” said Lori Connelly, assistant manager. Connelly said they stay busy with good crowds, especially on the weekends. If it is pork barbecue and fresh baked goods you like, try Mayberry’s at 3554 Teays Valley Road in Hurricane. Although the shop has been there for a few years, it was recently purchased by Larry and Brenda Hill, who owned Aunt Bee’s bakery several years ago in Hurricane. If you enjoy 1950s decor with the black-tiled floor and CocaCola theme, you will love Mayberry’s. It is a family restaurant that serves homestyle dinners, hamburgers, hot dogs, fish sandwiches and chicken salad sandwiches, among others. In addition, you can watch “The Andy Griffith Show,” which plays all day. What might make it stand out is Larry Hill’s barbecue and Brenda Hill’s famous homemade pies. In addition, one can always find her coconut cream and graham cracker pies, cupcakes and cookies every day.
Ashley Alford is the public relations representative for the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at 304-757-6510 or a.alford@putnamcounty.org.
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The Putnam Herald — Friday, March 22, 2013
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ABOVE: Shoppers pass through the Huntington Mall on March 11 in Barboursville. BELOW: Sidney and Lisa Darby of Russell, Ky., pass through the Huntington Mall on March 11 in Barboursville.
Malls focus on retail and community development STORY BY LACIE PIERSON / ThE hERALd-dISPATCh F
W
lpierson@herald-dispatch.com
hile it is important to Joe Johnston to make sure there are as many people as possible coming into the Huntington Mall, it also is just as important to him to be sure those people make the most out of the time they spend there. More than a year after the mall completed a facelift to mark its 30th anniversary, it remains as vibrant as ever with an assorted mix of stores, restaurants and community activities for those who are ready to utilize them, said Johnston, who is the property manager at the mall. Even as the economy remains unsteady, Johnston said the occupancy rate at the mall is higher than average, but he said the mall is not immune to the oscillation of business that comes with the operation of such a facility. “The state of our mall is evident considering our higher than normal occupancy rate,” said Johnston. “The nature of our business is one of attrition. Every year, we have stores that close, and new tenants are always being added.” the mall’s location in the TriState plays a huge factor in its success. “I believe the growth of t he center is at t r ibutable to the convenient location, increasing retailer interest in the Ashland Town Center and the mall programs that we offer to the community,” Bloss said. “The community plays a major role in the success of the town center.” Both Bloss and Johnston said it is important for each mall to be involved as partners in their communities, a nd each ma l l offers pro gra ms that extend beyond the spectr um of retail for their customers. The Huntington Mall and Cabel l Hunti ng ton Hospital were partners for healthfocused events before the hospital sponsored the construction of the Healthy Kids Play Place, which has been the catalyst for the Get Well Wednesday program. The mall often is the site for hea lt h sc reen i n gs for people of all ages, from kids getting ready to start kindergarten to seniors seeking a routine checkup. C ol le ge fa i r s , we dd i n g a nd prom expos a nd even the opening of an art installation have become routine
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In 2012, those new tenants included Bare Minerals, a specialty health and beauty store; Children’s Place, which sells infant, children’s and pre-teen apparel; and a new Verizon Wireless store. Five stores at the mall, while keeping their prime real estate, underwent extensive upgrades this year: Steak Escape, Deb S h op, L it t m a n Je we le r s , Gadgets & More and Candy Craze. At the opposite end of the Tri-State, the Ashland Town Center acquired its fair share of new retail occupants during the 2012 calendar year, said Jaime Bloss, marketing director for the center. At the end of February, the mall boasted a 97 percent occupancy rate. Those new stores include Dazzle Me, a specialty store t h at of fers a h a ndpic ked selection of purses, handbags and accessories, and Things R e m e m b e r e d , a n a t io n a l chain that offers specialty items to commemorate special life moments, relocated from a kiosk in the mall to an in-line location. Also swirling into the center this year was Orange Leaf, a well known frozen yogurt chain, which Bloss said has become a great fit at the mall since moving in next to the Panera Bread location at the mall. Three months into 201 3, Bloss sa id m a l l m a n a ge ment’s sights already are set on developing business with Maurice’s setting to relocate to a larger space in the mall. The Buckle will move into Maurice’s former space. She said she is excited to have these new businesses occupying the mall, saying
events on the mall’s calendar, and Johnston said there are teams in place to ensure the mall continues to reach out to customers. “(Marketing director) Margi MacDuff and her marketing staff are constantly staging events to inform and entertain our visitors so that they will have a positive experience a nd thus ma king it more li kely that they will visit us again sooner rather tha n later a nd more often during the year,” Johnston said. Keeping mall patrons coming in at the Ashland Town Center are two key programs that benefit both mall guests and nonprofit groups, Bloss said. The mall’s License to Shop Program is in full swing, and coupon books are available for purchase by the general public or through special fundraising programs for charitable organizations and schools, Bloss said. Even if the books, which cost $5, are purchased at the mall’s guest service center, the proceeds benefit a local charity. The town center also continues to host its annual Magical Night of Giving the Sunday before Thanksgiving. During the after-hours holiday shop-
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SHOLTEN SINGER | THE HERALD-DISPATCH ping and entertainment event, mall patrons can be part of generating funds for dozens of community organizations and nonprofits in the Tri-State. During the 2012 event, mall shoppers raised $25,000 for local Girl Scout troops, schools and churches. The Ashland Town Center also has its own play area, sponsored by Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital, where kids can work off their energy while their parents take a break from shopping. When they aren’t shopping or taking a break from it, shoppers at both malls can find
easy access to customer service in the form of the customary mall maps, service centers and mall safety personnel. At the Huntington Mall, the security team’s role became even more visible this year with the creation of a security desk adjacent to the food court, Johnston said. “Our security tea m, led by Jamie Yates, continues to make their presence known by being visible and helpful as they are, as I like to call them, our ambassadors,” Johnston said. The mall security at the Ashland Town Center also is
a valuable resource for customers, Bloss said. “We offer public safety 24 hours a day to assist our customers, employees and retailers,’ Bloss said. “They patrol inside and outside the mall. If a customer needs assistance, they can go to Guest Services, and they will contact public safety for them.” For more information about the Huntington Mall, call 304733-0429 or visit www.huntingtonmall.com. For more information about the Ashland Town Center, call 606-324-1100 or visit www.ashlandtowncenter.com.
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4B The Putnam Herald — Friday, March 22, 2013
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ALONG THE OHIO RIVER
A tow boat transports coal on the Ohio River in Huntington. Lori Wolfe/The Herald-Dispatch
With coal transport decreasing to power plants, more rocks, other products moving on the river
T
he Port of Huntington Tri-State is the largest inland port in Stretching 199 miles throughout the Big Sandy, Ohio and Kanawha the United States, based on the weight of cargo transported rivers, the waterway is used mostly to transport coal locally and globthrough the port and miles traveled, having more than 60 ally. Coal makes up 60 percent of the cargo moved through the port. million tons of cargo moving through the port annually. “River transportation is probably the most efficient, the most envi“Huntington is right now the No. 1 inland port in America,” said ronmentally friendly mode of transportation,” Whiteley said. Capt. John Whiteley, the executive director of the Inland Waterways One 15-barge tow on the Ohio River is equivalent to 2-1⁄4 trains or Academy at Mountwest Community and Technical College. “We’re 875 tractor trailers. Each barge carries roughly 1,800 tons of cargo, No. 7 overall in America, bigger than Baltimore and Philadelphia.” Whiteley said. The tonnage being moved was that it was not working with van said. use of river transportation keep square feet, you’re going to see Story by
Intermodal facilities The intermoda l facility located at The Point in South Point, Ohio, is beneficial to the river industry, since it has direct access to the Ohio River, along with railroads and roadways, Whiteley said. According to The Point’s official website, “This (intermodal facility) is the first point where the Heartland Corridor intersects with the Ohio River. The Point Industrial Park’s unique location near Interstate 64 Highway, State Route 23, the Norfolk Southern (National Heartland Corridor), and as a Port on the Ohio River in the Port of Huntington (Busiest Inland Port in the Nation), the Point offers a major enhancement in the flow of goods into and out of the Midwest Region of the United States.” The Port of Huntington is expected to also become integrated with the regular supply chain of Norfolk Southern’s Heartland Corridor, once the Heartland Intermodal Gateway at Prichard is completed. The intermodal facility is scheduled to be completed in 2014. This integration would allow the containers from doublestacked trains on the corridor to be transferred to trucks and delivered to water vessels traveling through the port, increasing the amount of cargo travel-
WHITNEY JOHNSON The Herald-Dispatch
ing by waterway and decreasing the amount moving via railway. This will not only lower the cost of transportation and upkeep for roads and railroads, it could also help lower product costs. “That’s going to change what kind of products we see moving out of the market place,” said Donovan, also the director of the National Maritime Enhancement Institute at Marshall University. The Rahall Transportation Institute has been conducting self-funded research on what they refer to as the next-generation inland vessel or the Next-Gen, Donovan said. This vessel features new technologies and is more up-to-date with current needs. “The current system that is out there today is a 20th Century supply chain,” Donovan said about the current barges and tow boats used. “It is very efficient in moving the commodities we’ve talked about over the years.” However, once the intermodal facility is completed in Prichard, the expected use of containerization and new products will require vessels suited for the 21st Century supply chain. These Next-Gen vessels are designed to work as a shuttle, with the ability to be used for short sea or inland navigation. “It’s faster and more fuel efficient. It can burn more natural gas. It can be a dual-fuel vessel,” Donovan said. “Then it becomes a dedicated mode of transportation. We are very excited about this opportunity as we move forward.” The tonnage from using containers on vessels is not as high as some people may think. The use of a next-generation vessel would require funding to be based off the value of products being moved, rather than the tonnage. “When we shift and start looking at this 21st Century supply chain, stuff moving in 20-foot and 40-foot containers won’t weigh as much. The value may be more, but tonnage is down,” Donovan said. Based on the current concept the Corps use for funding, the use of containers on vessels do not work since the tonnage is not high. Funding is important to the efficiency of containerization, which would attract more users. RTI has conducted research on other container ports that are similar to the Heartland Intermodal Gateway, including a port located in Virginia. One of the problems at that facility
local people. “The Heartland in Prichard is critical,” Donovan said. “It brings new potential users.” Within a 125-mile radius of Prichard, RTI has come up with at least 52 businesses that could potentially become exporters at the Heartland Intermodal Gateway. These possible businesses are important to the development and usage of containerization locally. “ We’re now developi ng strategies with the state port authorities to see what businesses they need to work with locally,” Donovan said. “So once the port is open, we’re ahead of the game.” By conducting the research and locating potential businesses now, once Prichard is completed, officials in the maritime industry will be prepared to begin the shift to possible conta i ner i z ation, which would eventually require the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to change the way funding is decided. “Once we have that f irst (new vessel moving through the port), then it becomes a reality and there’s a sense of urgency,” Donovan said about getting the proper port funding. “Until then, it’s a research question.” Donovan said they are currently researching and having discussions about potential areas that could be used as a port to move containers onto vessels once the intermodal facility is complete. “It’s those intermodal distribution centers that a re going to be critical in where this container on vessel port needs to be. It’s more about what starts happening in the market place,” Donovan said. “It’s more about what’s going on in the region and what do their supply chains look like.” Globally, the largest product being moved via containers a re automobi le pa r ts . With access to Port of Virginia and an exit ramp for a double-stack train, the local area could possibly gain an investment opportunity, by potent i a l ly mov i ng t hese automobile parts once containerization becomes a reality. “It changes our profile of who we are in the region,” Donovan said. “We’ve truly become a freight hub.” RTI has also been working with U.S. Sen. Jay Rockefeller’s office, U.S. Maritime Administration, Public Port Authority and other maritime off icials to bring a marine highway event to West Virginia. The marine highway event is expected to be held in April at the Marshall University Foundation Hall. “There is a federal interest in what we’re doing,” Dono-
This event will allow public officials and private business owners from West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and Pennsylvania to come up with ideas on the use of containerization on the Ohio River during a workshop that will be conducted at the event. The purpose is to begin drafting ideas before containerization becomes viable in the area. Not only does the increased
product costs lower due to the lower transportation costs, it also opens the opportunity for more jobs. The creation of distribution centers exporting via containers would also increase the number of jobs in the area drastically. “If a distribution center of a magnitude of 1 million square feet comes in, to support that, you’d need about 50 acres,” Donovan said. “Within that 1 million
about 450 jobs.” Donovan estimated these jobs of paying between $18 to $26 per hour plus benefits. In addition to the distribution centers, there would be jobs for the drivers that move the containers, short haul and long haul. “You can see realistically 1,500 to 2,000 jobs in this distribution idea,” Donovan said. “And then you can get the multiplier effect.”
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through the port has shifted, since there isn’t as much coal being moved to power plants, but more rocks, chemicals and other products are being used as backfilling, Whiteley said. Some of the aggregates moving through the port, such as rocks and limestones, are tied to construction areas. In the Pittsburgh area, there is an increase in steel pipe and sand being moved via waterways due to Marcellus Shale gas drilling, said Patrick Donovan, director of Maritime and Intermodal Transportation at Rahall Transportation Institute. Since coal is the primary product traveling through the port, it plays a large part in the amount of funding received from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for upkeep. Although the cost of upkeep is less for waterways compared to roadways or railways, the funding is based off the amount of tonnage traveling through it, rather than the product’s value. “If the cargo transported on the inland waterways each year had to be moved by another mode, it would take an additional 6.3 million rail cars or 25.2 million trucks to carry the load. On average, a gallon of fuel allows one ton of cargo to be shipped 59 miles by truck, 202 miles by rail and 514 miles by barge,” according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Inland Waterway Navigation Brochure.
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C M Y K 50 inch Putnam Herald
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The Putnam Herald — Friday, March 22, 2013
5B
Mark Webb/The Herald-Dispatch
Finds and Designs located in downtown Huntington.
Continued revitalization depends on developers and residents alike
H
UNTINGTON — It was 2010 when Lauren Herman decided downtown Huntington was missing an important niche, and she was just the person to fill it. “While visiting friends in various college towns such as Athens, Columbus and Richmond, I really enjoyed visiting all of the small, local shops scattered around the college campuses,” said Herman, who was a Marshall student at the time. “My favorites, of course, were the little vintage clothing and furniture stores, and it kind of bummed me out that Huntington didn’t really have anything like that.” during the day. Now, he said unique niche shopping, entertainment, dining and service business are traits of successful downtowns today. The thrill of a unique shopping experience is not lost on Kevin Brady, director of the Greater Huntington Parks and Recreation District, who said he completed all of his holiday shopping in downtown Huntington — specifically at Heritage Station, which is owned and operated by the district. Shops including Herman’s Finds and Designs, Bottle & Wedge, Brand Yourself, Jameson Cigars, The Red Caboose, Common Ground and, most recently, The Wild Ramp each provide shopping experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the area, he said. The business layout of Heritage Station, located between the 2 1⁄2 Alley and Veterans Memorial Boulevard on 11th Street, was shifty during Brady’s first few months as director in 2010 and 2011, but he said the area includes the aforementioned shops along with places like River and Rail Bakery, Sip! Wine Bar, Let’s Eat Café and Brown Dog Yoga Studio The $50,000 the district annually accumulates from Heritage Station is reinvested into the center to market the facility and events including the Summer Party on the Patio Series and The Diamond Teeth Mary Blues & Art Festival. “Our shops provide interesting and eclectic gifts and items for local people and visitors to Huntington alike,” Brady said. “Heritage Station is a historic monument to the true heritage of our community dating back to 1887. It is filled with a variety of small businesses that are operated by your friends and neighbors.” Brady said he was pleased with how the entire downtown area is coming together, but he said there always is room for improvement. “The continuation of the downtown revitalization is critical to the community,” he said. “With continued revitalization and renewed interest in the downtown area, people will begin to realize they can do it all downtown.” A little more than two months into his term as mayor, Williams said city officials already are setting goals to further ensure and improve development in downtown. He said a partnership with Marshall University already
is proving to be beneficial as make the biggest difference in of shopping for gifts at the mall, bly find something more unique, the former Stone and Thomas encouraging business down- visit the small, locally owned and you’ll be stimulating the building is being renovated into town,” Herman said. “Instead shops downtown. You’ll proba- local economy in the process.” a new visual arts center for the university. The use of that building by the university is a move that Bugher said will have a major effect on downtown. The future of that partnership between the city and the university may best be symbolized through the development of the Old Main Corridor, which spans along 4th Avenue between Hal Greer Boulevard and 10th Street. Williams said he hopes to create a “vibrant, active corridor” full of pedestrian traffic. The goal is to make empty storefronts along 4th Avenue the exception, and he wants to see eclectic shops and businesses that can serve the population of students and faculty at Marshall while still being a path to downtown. “The Old Main Corridor must become an enticing neighbor to the students of Marshall,” he said. “The campus is clean and pristine. When students walk across Hal Greer Boulevard, they are greeted with grime and * Statistics published by the Newspaper Asso ciation of America from independent resea empty space. We must make the rchers. Old Main Corridor shine.” Some of Williams’ ideas include adding public art to the landscape to invite pedestrian traffic and brightening the lighting to both enhance the streetscape and create a safer environment. He also said the continued presence of hanging floral arrangements throughout the downtown area creates an inviting and relaxed atmosphere. Of course, there are a few challenges that Williams said city officials and developers will face in making that happen. “We must be brave and courageous enough to be innovative,” Williams said. “The presence of financial capital will always be a sticking point. As we become more successful and demonstrate our unique skill set that enables us to accomplish those goals that we set, we will become a destination point not just for visitors and tourism but for investors as well.” For an investor like Herman, whose vintage shop originally was located along 4th Avenue in the Old Main Corridor before moving to its current location, making downtown as user friendly as possible is a priority because it is those “users” who have the most influence over the success of a local business. “Residents in Huntington can
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Herman, a Huntington native, said she and her mother, Claire Nudd, thought it would be fun to open a vintage shop in Huntington to share that experience with residents in the city. Now, their shop, Finds and Designs at Heritage Station, is one of several locally owned businesses that have become part of what Huntington Mayor Steve Williams has called “the most vibrant downtown in the region” after years of noticeable development. “The City of Huntington’s downtown area has had a complete renaissance,” Williams said. “Just a few years ago, 3rd Avenue between 8th and 10th streets had three businesses. Today, this same area has over 35 businesses.” Williams attributed the growth to the efforts of local property owners investing considerable sums of money to restore historic buildings in addition to Pullman Square attracting new businesses. He noted downtown f ixtures the Big Sandy Superstore Arena and the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center, or, as he called it, “the jewel in the crown of downtown,” as being vital in drawing visitors to Huntington. The average visitor to the arena visits four local businesses when t hey at tend events there, Williams said. Of course, while bringing these business downtown is very well and good, the good vibes and profits won’t last for long without the patronage of the city’s residents, said Mark Bugher, president and chief executive officer of the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce. It is the nature of any downtown business environment to ebb and flow from year to year, but he said looking at the bigger picture is what will serve Huntington residents, consumers and business owners in continuing to create and sustain a more stable, and lively, downtown area. “What’s needed is support for the businesses that operate downtown,” Bugher said. “Many residents still have an old view of the city center as not being the bustling city district they once knew. However, come downtown almost any evening, and you will see people out, and parking at a premium.” Shopping habits are continually changing, Bugher said, and right now, commerce isn’t about crowded streets and sidewalks
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6B The Putnam Herald —
Friday, March 22, 2013
C M Y K 50 inch PUTNAM Progress 2013:
www.herald-dispatch.com
Friday, March 22, 2013
Transportation
1D
Putnam Progress 2013:
Billy Summers/The Putnam Herald
Motorcyclists from around the area travel down new U.S. 35 on Aug. 7, 2010, in support of Hogs for Dogs, a fundraiser for the new Putnam County Animal Relief Center.
U.S. 35 projects nearing completion By RACHEL BAILEY
For The Herald-Dispatch
A few years ago, Putnam County residents were faced with a choice: Expand all of the section of U.S. 35 that runs through the county to four lanes, making it a toll road, or leave the expansion incomplete. “No one wants to pay to get where they need to go,” as West Virginia Department of Transportation spokeswoman Carrie Bly points out. “The Department of Highways had put in
several areas where you could go around the tolls. There were many options where you could get off and get around the tolls,” she says. “We listened to the community, and they didn’t want a toll road.” Putnam County government voted the toll road down, and the expansion of 35 was stunted, meaning a section of the road, from Beech Hill to the Buffalo Bridge, would have to remain two lanes. Without the funds to expand the entirety of the road, the DOT turned its focus instead
to maintenance and upgrades to the existing two-lane portion of U.S. 35. The expansion to four lanes of much of the highway meant more people on the roads, about 12,000 at its busiest point. “We wanted to make it as safe as we could with the funding we had,” Bly said. Officials divided up the remaining, unexpanded portion of the road into two parts — Beech Hill to Plantation Road, and Plantation Road to Buffalo Bridge. Improvements include widened shoulders, the installation
of piling walls and resurfacing. In some cases, utilities like power poles or underground wires had to be moved to make room for the shoulders, which doubled in size from two feet to four feet. The first section, started in 2011, covered about 14 miles and stretched from Beech Hill to Plantation Road. The second section, currently under construction, stretched from Plantation Road to Buffalo Bridge, about 3.5 miles. “We have about 2.4 miles to go,” said Bly, though she did not indicate when she thought the project would be completed. After nearly a year of construction on the project, Putnam commuters will surely be glad to see the upgrades completed.
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2D The Putnam Herald — Friday, March 22, 2013
Questions? Call the newsroom at 304-526-2776 www.putnamherald.com
Photos by Toril Lavender/For The Herald-Dispatch
Jim Jenkins, left, and Brent Taft check in a customer’s luggage at Allegiant Air at Tri-State Airport.
KEEPING AN EYE ON A CHANGING INDUSTRY
Tri-State Airport continues to improve, juggle projects STORY BY JEAN TARBETT HARDIMAN / THE HERAlD-DISpATcH
I
F
jeant@herald-dispatch.com
t’s no time for rest at Tri-State Airport. Facing changes to the industry and the ongoing task of creating the safest, most comfortable traveling experience for customers, the airport is always busy juggling a number of projects at one time. And that’s certainly been true over the past year as well. Since Delta terminated its flight out of Tri-StateAirport in May 2012, there’s been an ongoing effort to find an airline to replace it. But it’s been difficult, said Jerry Brienza, executive director of Tri-State Airport. “Over the past couple of years, airports have had to focus much of their resources on airline retention in lieu of securing new airlines,” he said. “The industry is changing, and small airports are losing more and more battles for air service. Airlines are reducing frequency and dropping lower performing markets. They are also grounding or selling less efficient aircraft, which reduces the capacity (seats) available to passengers. “In short, there are less flights, less aircraft and fewer seats in the skies today, and small airports are taking the biggest hit.” When it comes down to it, t here a re on ly t h ree major domestic air carriers left, he said: United, Delta and American. “Being that Delta is selling most of its regional air carrier jets and halted f lights out of HTS last year, leaving USAir (American Airlines) as the only major air carrier left here, we have only United Airlines as our other major option.” Tri-State Airport has been courting United for years, but United has been going through some major network changes since it merged with Continental a few years ago, he said. It has been conservative about opening up new markets, but Brienza said Tri-State is “very optimistic that they will someday see the benefit of adding air service at HTS,” he said. In the meantime, the recent merger of USAir and American Airlines should affect the USAir route between Huntington and Charlotte right now, Brienza said. “Those airports that have service from both USAir and American will most likely be affected initially, as they may seek to consolidate office and ticket counter space, which would immediately impact the airports’ revenues,” he said. As airport officials keep their eyes on changes in the industry, they’re also making plenty of physical changes here in Huntington — including everything from security a nd termina l
upgrades to taxiway improvements. Last year, the airport and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) teamed up to improve the bottleneck at the security checkpoint by relocating it into the more expansive part of the terminal. By doing so, the TSA was able to install state-ofthe-art equipment that otherwise would not have fit. “This new equipment makes security screening much more efficient and less intrusive to the customer,” Brienza said. The airport started a $1 million terminal renovation project late last year. Upgrades can be seen in carpeting, walls, ticket counters and seating. Also undergoing improvements are the heating and cooling systems, the fire alert system and other fire code upgrades. Tri-State Airport also partnered with Better Foods Inc. to remodel its restaurant, which was damaged in a kitchen fire in March 2012. Tudor’s Biscuit World and Gino’s Pub/Restaurant are now open to travelers and the community. “They also opened up a gift shop that focuses on local merchandise and foods,” Brienza said. “We are really focusing on the needs of our customers and hope that this will also become a place to visit, both dining and shopping, for local area residents.” Last year, the airport also completed improvements to its runway by rehabilitating its pavement, installing new runway lights and markings and improving some navigational aid cabling issues, Brienza said. “2013 projects include rehabilitating Taxiway G and possibly a portion of Taxiway A, as well as improving some drainage issues that are causing, or could cause,
slips on or around the airport property,” he said. “The Tri-state Airport Authority, the administration and all of its staff are dedicated to improving our infrastructure, our processes and our procedures to ensure that our guests will be as comfortable as possible,” Brienza said. “We know people have choices whether or not to fly, or from which airport to fly from, but we appreciate all of the support our residents have given us, and we will continually try to make their HTS experience a pleasurable one.”
ABOVE, BELOW: Travelers head through security at Tri-State Airport.
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The Putnam Herald — Friday, March 22, 2013
It’s time for a new wave for economic competitiveness Robert H.
PLYMALE
strategic goals,” said RTI’s Chief Operating Officer Frank Betz. “In the areas of economic competitiveness, sustainability and safety, the liquid natural gas (LNG) powered vessel is the benchmark in energy savings, toxic emissions reduction and safety. Moreover, our system of highways and railroads is reaching capacity. The inland waterway system has excess capacity and should be developed to help provide a cost-effective supplement to building more road and railroad infrastructure. The development of a marine highway system for cargo shipments would contribute greatly to mitigate the increasing constraints of the current cargo transportation system while satisfying another USDOT strategic goal: the state-ofgood-repair of the current highway system.” Other benefits of enhancing the current cargo transportation system to include waterway transportation are enhancing fuel efficiency, as well as reduced highway spills, accidents and noise. A recent transportation institute estimate found that traffic congestion costs Americans $200 billion dollars, 4.2 billion hours in traffic and 2.9 billion gallons of fuel each year compounded with traffic projected to quadruple nationwide between 2009 and 2040. The issue of increased traffic and stagnant growth in lane-miles is expected to continue in the coming years. Waterborne shipping will help alleviate these difficulties in heavily congested areas by employing a transportation mode that is under-utilized. None of these benefits would be realized without water shipment operating in
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Robert H. Plymale is CEO and director of the Rahall Transportation Institute. Plymale leads a team of business, academic and research professionals working to enhance safety and economic development opportunities through transportation.
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an affordable and dependable way. Operational efficiency at ports is a critical part of coastal shipping in terms of both time and cost. The original diversion from shipping to truck occurred, because waterway shipping was seen as slow, unreliable and expensive. By nature, high water resistance makes speed increases for vessels more costly than for trucks or rail. Technology improvements made by WCE on designs of the engine, hull and propulsion system will help reduce water resistance, make the vessels faster and more fuel efficient to buoy the success of waterway shipping. The reality of our nation’s fiscal and economic challenges to compete globally in the 21st century is causing both public and private transportation professionals to consider alternative options for moving freight. Current users of the inland navigation system fully understand the value that a marine highway system would provide for transporting their respective commodities. Yet, a comprehensive approach is needed to implement and demonstrate the benefits of the 21st century supply chain to our nations inland waterways. Alternative solutions such as the NextGen catamaran cargo vessels are poised to provide economic viability and environmental benefits of the next generation of cargo shipments. Our region once again is a pioneer in developing not only new strategic transportation corridors such as the Heartland Corridor but new maritime vessels that could initiate more transportation opportunities nationally and internationally.
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As we navigate and explore alternative ways to move freight and position the region to be more competitive in the 21st century, it is time to expedite the planning for new ways to move freight and remain economically competitive. The Rahall Transportation Institute (RTI) is poised once again with its recent study on the Economic Viability and Environmental Benefits of the Next Generation (NextGen) Inland Navigation Vessel to provide necessary leadership. Past RTI research outlined the feasibility for what we see today as doubled-stacked container trains operating in our region along with the new manufacturing, warehousing and distribution opportunities coming with the 2014 opening of the Heartland Intermodal Gateway Terminal at Prichard. A new class of energyefficient, environmentally advanced and low operating cost vessels is poised to move river, coastal and short-sea containers in a manner more suited for the demands of the 21st century. Work-Cat Engineering (WCE) along with RTI, unveiled a new aluminum catamaran cargo vessel on Jan. 4, 2013, in the Journal of Commerce, the leading information and marketing services provider for domestic and international containerized cargo community since 1827. Former Horizon Lines CEO Chuck Raymond expects to sign contracts and start production on the aluminum hull catamaran vessel this year. Raymond refers to it as a “marine pickup truck” that can be built quickly using a “cookie-cutter” design at a cost much lower than the slower, single-hull steel ships in operation today. WCE is starting vessel production with a 400foot vessel and a 295-foot vessel with capacity of up to 315 and 107 forty-foot equivalent containers respectively. “The NextGen vessels satisfy several of the United States Department of Transportation
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C M Y K 50 inch Putnam Herald
4D The Putnam Herald — Friday, March 22, 2013
Questions? Call the newsroom at 304-526-2776 www.putnamherald.com
Joel Goldy is the owner of Goldy Auto at Kinetic Park in Huntington. Goldy said his Goldy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram dealership sold 22 vehicles in its first two weeks
AUTO INDUSTRY
OPTIMISM
By JEAN TARBETT HARDIMAN The Herald-Dispatch
C
jeant@herald-dispatch.com
oming off a strong 2012, local auto dealers are optimistic for their industry for the rest of this year. “National car sales are trending slightly upward for 2013,” said Chris Miller of Dutch Miller Auto Group. “All national forecasting models predict a better year for the car industry in 2013 for everyone. Our sales at Dutch Miller Kia for 2013 are up by about 30 percent, which is huge. Banks, feeling more stability than in years past, are easing up on credit restrictions, which means more loans are available for consumers and more people are able to buy cars.” Other dealers are optimistic as well. Joel Goldy of the Moses Automotive Group, who has recently launched Goldy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram located in KineticPark, said his dealership sold 22 vehicles in its first two weeks and is looking forward to providing those brands in Huntington. In January, Chrysler group posted 34 consecutive months of year-over-year sales gains nationally, he said. “All the new products coupled with a new building, we have very high expectations for Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram brands this year,” he said. There’s a lot of new technology out there to excited about, Goldy said. “Consumers will notice more all-new models,” he said. “The model refresh will bring more LED headlights, diesel in cars as well as light duty trucks, better solutions for connecting your phone to the vehicle, easier-to-use navigation and stereo controls, 8- and 9-speed transmissions for better fuel economy. “The Ram truck now has an air suspension with 4 inches of travel,” he said. “It has a button on the key fob that will lower the truck to make entry easier. Plus, you can raise the truck for off-road use.” The building for Goldy Auto is still under construction, but vehicles are for sale on the lot, he said. “I ordered more inventory because we thought the building would be further along, but it is a bit behind schedule, so we have more cars and trucks than we can fit on our lot,” he said. “In May, we should have the dealership completely open with service and sales fully operational. Currently, service is being per-
formed at Moses Nissan in Huntington.” It’s looking like 2013 will be an amazing year for consumers, Miller said. “With interest rates being kept artificially low for consumers by the Fed, this means one thing for consumers: cheaper payments,” he said. “Basically, you can borrow the same amount of money as years past for a smaller payment. Combine that with higher than usual resale values of trade-ins and good manufacturer incentives — rebates — and, man, is it a good time to buy a car.” Dutch Miller Kia was one of 25 dealers in the country out of 2,600 selected by Kia as a Presidents Club Award Winner, an award given to the top dealers in the country in combined sales volume, sales customer satisfaction and service customer satisfaction. The one variable that could change the rationale of the consumer is the 2.3 percent payroll tax increase signed into law, Miller said. “While not significant enough to change demand trends, this tax will impact purchase decisions,” he said. “Some consumers will consider less expensive new car models and further shop for value and savings: considering safety, fuel efficiency, maintenance, insurance costs and warranty in the overall decision to offset higher taxes. Other new car buyers may shift to the used car market because of perceived affordability.” There’s an interesting phenomenon going on right now with used cars, Bill Cole said. “Because people did hold back from replacing their car perhaps a little longer than they would, the used care business is a little bit tougher right now,” said the owner of Bill Cole Auto Malls in Ashland and in Bluefield. “There’s really a pressure on finding enough quality used cars, and that is because, instead of trading with 50,000 miles, people have been trading with 100,000 or 150,000 miles. That’s not as easy to turn around.” But with today’s low interest rates, he remains optimistic. The industry has come back dramatically in recent years, Cole said. “Things are going well,” he said. “We see the car business nationally is enjoying some high. It’s not record sales, but near record sales (industrywide).” Struggles in the coal business locally mean, “We’re not celebrating as much as the nation, but having said that, our business is solid,” Cole said. Meanwhile, his Ashland dealership wrapped up a construction project within the past year. “We finished up a state-of-the-art Honda facility that we’re proud of,” he said. “While the building has been completed almost a year, the construction has been ongoing (with the demolition of the old building). In the past several months, we’ve finished all that so we can be about the business of selling and servicing cars. ... So we’re looking for a good year.”
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The Putnam Herald — Friday, March 22, 2013
KEY PLAYER: JAMES D. YORK JOB: Executive director of West Virginia Public Port Authority, Department of Transportation. FAMILY: Wife of 30 years, Robbin; son, Stephen; and daughter, Cheyenne. HOW DID YOU GET INTO YOUR CAREER: “I have always had a desire to be part of making a difference. As corny as that may sound, I find my drive in working for people rather than an issue. Having dedicated my life to government for 30-plus years, I feel so gracious to have the opportunity to work here in West Virginia where ‘doing the right thing for people’ remains the theme in government. “I was fortunate to get this opportunity here in West Virginia after a wonderful career
in Florida. I began in the field of criminal justice focusing on complex analysis of criminal activity. Following several years of identifying strategies to protect Florida infrastructure, the focus became the safety, economic and future needs. I was assigned to lead the commercial movement of commodities originating from Florida’s seaports and surface entry points and how they traverse by way of surface water, air and rail. “Because of Florida’s location with many seaports, both industrial and agriculturally, this became significant following the events of Sept. 11, 2001. After embarking on a governmentsponsored trip to the Middle East, my career allowed me to focus on transportation movement into major points of entry
into the United States and how they move and what it plays to a state’s economy. I remained in this position until 2011. I was very fortunate that Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin and Department of Transportation Secretary Paul Mattox to allow me to be a part of West Virginia’s team, and now I am lucky to work with dedicated professionals in the public and private sector as we continue to move the state forward. “West Virginia is vital to this very effort. We are a very valuable player given the fact that we have the largest water port in movement of tonnage (the Ohio River). Because of our state’s location, we are positioned within the middle of our major ports in Virginia and the largest dry inland port in Chicago.” SPECIAL SKILLS: “Due to there being many issues to assure each project is approached and completed
5D
timely, within budget and in concert with what the people want and deserve, I would say that a good skill to have is the ability to listen. Being a good juggler doesn’t hurt, either. Having the ability to push forward and not accepting failure. If failure occurs, accept it as part of the learning process. Get up, dust off and get back to work. My education in public administration didn’t hurt, either.” FAVORITE BOOK: “The Art of War” by Sun Tzu FAVORITE MOVIE: “Taken” (At the time, my teenage daughter wanted to go on a family trip overseas. I was not able to go. I showed her the movie. She changed her mind.) FAVORITE TV SHOW: “Well, I watch a lot of public television. I am partial to ‘Rick Steve’s Europe’ series. It’s calming, and he has the second best job.”
Engines are rebuilt on the standard line at the CSX Locomotive Shop on March 8 in Huntington. Huntington is home to CSX’s divisional headquarters and dispatching center, as well as a CSX rail yard and the Huntington Locomotive Shop. It is also home to more than 550 CSX employees Mark Webb/ The HeraldDispatch
CSX Transportation:
Here to stay in Huntington Like many CSX employees who grew up in West Virginia, I know firsthand the value that the CSX and Huntington partnership brings to our region — from the jobs CSX creates along our tracks and with local businesses, to the goods we carry to and from West Virginia — as well as the tremendous potential for the future. The railroad that would eventually become CSX was born in the 1870s here in Huntington, where Collis P. Huntington established the western terminus of his Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. Huntington was a pioneer of the industry, one of the “Big Four” figures in the 19th Century responsible for building the United States’ first transcontinental railroad. Not only did he bring rails to the region and lend his name to the city, he championed many of the industries that still support our local economy — railroads, coal and agriculture. Today, CSX is just as integrated into the fabric of modern-day Huntington as it was during its founding. Huntington is home to CSX’s divisional headquarters and dispatching center, as well as a CSX rail yard and the Huntington Locomotive Shop. It is also home to more than 550 CSX employees, including myself. Each year, our company handles more than 1.5 million carloads of coal, agricultural goods, textiles and many other freight goods in the West Virginia area. We invested $74 million in its 2,200 miles of track in West Virginia during 2011 alone. This investment is only growing, as CSX plans to increase capacity along its Ohio River Subdivision to accommodate additional business from shale gas related industries. Across our network, CSX plans to invest about $2.3 billion this year.
J. Randolph
CHEETHAM
In the midst of this investment, the business environment is changing. While coal consumption in the United States is decreasing as natural gas and alternative energies gain prominence, our commitment to West Virginia and all our customers remains steadfast, and we see many opportunities for new and different partnerships. We are poised to capitalize on these changes to continue shipping needed goods to and from the Huntington area. But CSX’s support of the Huntington area goes beyond just creating the infrastructure to enable West Virginia businesses to succeed and grow. Our company is actively involved in civic partnerships throughout the region to help strengthen the community and its citizens. We enjoy a longstanding relationship with the Rahall Transportation Institute, having contributed more than $150,000 to help fund research into transportation technologies, resources and processes to improve the economic competitiveness of the Appalachian Region and the nation. We also donate to a variety of local charitable and civic initiatives that support our company’s core values. For example, CSX has a long relationship with St. Mary’s Medical Center supporting its Transportation Injury Prevention and Safety Program, which works to educate families and children about transportation safety, as well as the H.E.A.R.T. Program that educates young children on the importance of proper nutrition and
Today, CSX is just as integrated into the fabric of modern-day Huntington as it was during its founding. healthy living. CSX also supports Cabell Huntington Hospital, donating more than $50,000 to the Children’s Hospital. CSX’s has a 150-year history of service to America’s military, and nearly one in five CSX employees has served in the armed forces. To show our appreciation to our citizen soldiers, CSX recently donated $25,000 to the West Virginia National Guard Foundation to support their efforts to help members of the Guard and their families in times of need. We look forward to continuing our enduring partnership with Huntington and West Virginia, as we work together to adapt and continue supporting our region’s businesses and people. We encourage our neighbors to join us on Saturday, April 27, at a CSX-hosted volunteer cleanup day to help rehabilitate the Vinson Little League field on Park Avenue. More information is available at www.BeyondOurRails.org/ events. As a lifelong resident of West Virginia and a 15-year employee of CSX, I’m proud to be part of the CSX - Huntington partnership and the value it brings to our businesses, citizens and children. I look forward to carrying on this tradition long into the future. J. Randolph Cheetham is CSX’s regional vice president for State Government and Community Affairs. He is based in Huntington.
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PUTNAM PROGRESS
2013
Commerce & Transportation Publishes: Friday, March 22 DEADLINE: Friday, March 15
Homes & Careers Publishes: Friday, March 29 DEADLINE: Friday, March 22 260406
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C M Y K 50 inch 6D The Putnam Herald —
Friday, March 22, 2013
HUNTINGTON
CHARLESTON/MARMET
USED SPECIALS
USED SPECIALS
304-529-2200 NEW SPECIALS 304-925-0431 2008 FORD FOCUS SES
2005 JEEP LIBERTY SPORT 4X4
NEW 2013 FORD
S30012-A. AT. AC. 4 CYL, NEW TIRES, ONE OWNER
8950
$
SALE PRICE
2008 TOYOTA PRIUS HATCHBACK
A30065B, AT, AC, 6 CYL., NEW TIRES
FIESTA
10,644
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11,950
$
2012 FORD FOCUS SEL
AUTO, 68K MILES, REDUCED #P2136
SALE $ PRICE
13,900
2010 FORD ESCAPE XLT 4X4
18,950
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#D30241, ONLY 34,000 MILES GREAT GAS SAVER!
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$
*
21,980
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HUNTINGTON
304-529-2200
18,690
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NEW 2013 FORD
F150 SUPERCAB
SALE PRICE
19,988
$
2011 DODGE RAM QUAD CAB
P1729, ONLY 8,000 MILES
P1731, HEMI, LOW MILES, ONE OWNER VEHICLE
22,700
$
*
AS A S LLOW OW A AS S*
25,500
$
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27,304
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SALE PRICE
2012 JEEP WRANGLER UNLIMITED
2011 FORD F150 RAPTOR SUPERCREW
T21092, ONLY 7,000 MILES!
RAPTOR SUPERCREW SUPERCREW, 4X4, 13K MILES #P1701
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NEW 2013 FORD
P1699, SUPER CLEAN VEHICLE
2012 CHEVY EQUINOX
26,900
F150 CREW CAB
$
N3046
20,950
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2010 FORD EDGE SEL
F30211, AUTOMATIC, ONLY 14K MIILES
SALE $ PRICE
P2252, AT, AC, 6 CYL., ONLY 43K MILES
11,888
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H3016
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L2741, AT, AC, LIKE NEW, ONLY 9000 MILES
21,960
18,750
$
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2008 FORD EXPLORER SPORT TRAC XLT 4X4
11,834
*
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2012 FORD MUSTANG
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F3049
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NEW 2013 FORD
$
2009 MINI COOPER S
2012 SCION TC
ESCAPE L2745, AT AT, AC, SUNROOF SUNROOF, V6 V6, ONE OWNER
SALE PRICE
2010 FORD FOCUS
2011 NISSAN VERSA SL
2011 FORD RANGER XCAB XLT
11,678
$
*
13,499 FUSION
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AUTOMATIC AND 25,000 MILES P1708
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NEW 2013 FORD
#L2724, AT, AC, 4CYL FACTORY WARRANTY
14,826
$
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2007 PONTIAC G6 GT CONVERTIBLE
FOCUS
2007 CHEVY HHR
*
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NEW 2013 FORD
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12,989
$
2008 CHEVY MALIBU
$
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$
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SALE $ PRICE
7891 MACCORKLE AVE
CHARLESTON/MARMET
304-925-0431
824354
*Prior sales/offers excluded. Prices include rebate, FMCC rebate, and college student discount. Tax, title fees extra. Expires 4/1/13
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