Recent editorials from Kentucky newspapers:
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Aug. 4
The Daily Independent on plans for an aluminum rolling mill in northeastern Kentucky:
We understand the skepticism. So does he. We understand the doubt. So does he. We understand the mistrust. So does he.
But what’s the harm in giving Braidy Industries CEO Don Foster a fair shake?
Foster appears to be a no-nonsense, straight shooter. He has logged four decades of success in the metals industry, and he’s familiar with this area - and areas similar to this region.
There was a pre-Don Foster era within the company, and now there’s a with-Foster era. Not all was bad before he came along, and not all was good. The grand plan, though, is still in place; and Foster is confident the aluminum rolling mill will be built in northeastern Kentucky.
Why believe him? That’s a valid question.
But why not believe him? Until he proves his word can’t be trusted, why write him off?
The first test for Foster, in terms of establishing trust, is if workers begin moving some of the 510,000 cubic yards of dirt this summer.
The second test is rebranding. The name will change. How he pitches this to potential investors and the public is key. He said he’s focused on results, which might be the best marketing ploy at this point.
The third test for the new CEO is generating significant interest among investors, and then getting them on board like a dogpile after a World Series victory.
The fourth test is to actually stick closely with the timeline he set - Foster said he hopes to see aluminum rolling out of the mill by May 2023.
Foster knows the hurdles laid out in front of him; and just as the cliche recites, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
Perhaps it’s too soon to blurt “In Don We Trust,” but is it fair to give up on him and the “new Braidy Industries” at this juncture? We don’t think so. Let’s allow Foster, the board and the employees who haven’t swayed from their ultimate intentions some time and space. The results on which Foster is focused could be just the jolt northeastern Kentucky desperately needs.
Online: https://www.dailyindependent.com
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Aug. 3
The State Journal on supporting local options during Kentucky Farmers’ Market Week:
Though hard to believe, it has been more than a year since Bryant’s Pic-Pac - a downtown grocery staple on West Second Street - shut its doors for good. In the time since, the store, which provided many Frankfort residents without transportation a walkable option for grocery needs, has sat vacant.
Fortunately, the Franklin County Farmers Market at River View Park offers fresh, locally grown produce, eggs, baked goods, meats, jams, canned goods, beer cheese, artisanal soap, crafts and more three days a week. All products sold at the market are produced in Franklin and surrounding counties.
The Franklin County Farmers Market is just one of 167 markets in 115 of state’s 120 counties celebrating Kentucky Farmers’ Market Week through Friday.
“Purchasing your food from a Kentucky Proud farmers’ market not only supports your local farmers, but also keeps the money you spend in your community,” said Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles. “During the coronavirus pandemic, our farmers’ markets have adapted to protect themselves and Kentucky consumers. I encourage all Kentuckians to consider visiting their local farmers’ market.”
According to last year’s data, farmers market sales across the state brought in nearly $13 million. While it is expected that the COVID-19 pandemic will put a dent in 2020’s total sales figures, we are especially grateful for our local farmers, who make fresh food available for us all.
“This crisis has put a magnifying glass on the reasons we need our agriculture producers,” Quarles explained, adding that each market is following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines, including adding hand-washing stations in high-traffic areas.
Customers are asked to browse with their eyes, not their hands, by allowing vendors to select the products. Farmers also request that customers go cashless by prepaying online in order to minimize cash and cards changing hands.
Due to the current global health pandemic, the Franklin County Farmers Market is open for in-person sales only on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon and Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Thursdays are for online sales only. To register, visit https://fcmarket.localfoodmarketplace.com/
This week, we thank and celebrate our local farmers. They are a vital resource for providing fresh and nutritious food straight from Kentucky farms.
Online: https://www.state-journal.com
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