To the citizens of Ironton, if I have not thanked you, I thank you now for the many congrats I received from social media messages, letters, cards, phone calls, texts or in person. “Citizen of the Year” was a real surprise and a great honor.

Whatever I have done to bring this my way was done to boost the economic condition of this city and to bring attention to the improvements taken place in the past couple of years by others. Along with an honor like this is the responsibility to continue the passion and support the many projects as well as the many people and organizations involved. I’ll not attempt to name those people and organizations in fear of leaving someone out.

You know who you are. I will say that no one has worked harder than Ironton Mayor Rich Blankenship and his staff to help make things happen.

I have always believed that good managers don’t take credit. Good managers take responsibility. As Farmers Market manager I have big plans for the upcoming season, starting the weekend of May 2 and 3.

You can expect it to be the same friendly experience with the same great vendors as last year with a few new ones, some new products and more special events. As you know my main focus is the Farmers Market and downtown housing, but nothing is going to affect the down town more than the new bridge. Ironton is considered a gateway from the north, when the new bridge opens Ironton will also be the gateway from the south.

Progress downtown is on track to be ready for the influx of old and new visitors, some of them seeing our city for the first time in years. Our little town is fast becoming the jewel of the Tri-State. Talking to friends from neighboring states I hear nothing but compliments about our community.

As an Ironton aLive board member I understand and take the challenge to make Ironton a destination city. If you believe as I do that Ironton is a special place, you need to attend the DNA meeting with like minded folks at 6 p.m. Thursday at the RoNa.

Ironton, a very special place.

 

Sam Heighton

Ironton aLive, Co-Chairperson

Ironton Farmers Market Manager

Owner, HEIGHTONe Video Productions