The Ohio River continues to both bring the three states of Kentucky, West Virginia and Ohio closer together, as well as keep us apart.

Sitting in a meeting recently, talking about getting a variety of agencies to work together, it occurred to me that our region still does very little to promote and market itself as one metropolitan area with much to offer.

Yes, law enforcement agencies do a better job than they ever have before in terms of cooperation. Yes, economic development groups now communicate better about more opportunities for growth and development.

But, as a whole, our region still does very little to create a positive image and marketing campaign for the individual parts or the whole.

How many times have you been watching television and seen commercials for cities or states, including Las Vegas, Orlando, Hawaii, South Carolina, Alaska, and others.

Why not the Tri-State?

It would be difficult for any of the three states to tackle something like this on their own but working together collectively this would certainly seem to be an achievable goal.

Would a concerted marketing and public relations program across the country in trade magazines, in development meetings and other key areas make a positive impact?

Logic would tell you that it would.

Our region has long had a perception problem — with the perception being that the region has little to offer. This couldn’t be farther from the truth but, as the old cliche goes, “perception is reality.”

If we do a better job of promoting our tourism, our arts and culture, our quality of life, our school systems and our economic development opportunities, those all combine to leverage together into a very powerful tool.

The three primary communities in each state — Ashland, Ironton and Huntington — are all actually very similar, sharing many of the same strengths and weaknesses.

If we create a more unified approach, to promote the former and correct the latter, the entire region will benefit.

We often talk about a Tri-State region — and The Tribune is as guilty as anyone — but maybe we should focus more on a One-State or New-State mentality that would emphasize our unity.

That would break down borders in ways we have never seen and create bridges over the Ohio River that would span well beyond the physical.

Michael Caldwell is publisher of The Tribune. To reach him, call (740) 532-1445 ext. 24 or by e-mail at mike.caldwell@irontontribune.com.